Our story begins in a small cluster of buildings located in what is now Belfast. There is a gentle hum of work, the banging and clanging of industry, the rhythmic chopping of lumber workers in the nearby forest, the muffled yells and calls of the miners in the nearby stone quarry, and the giggles and chortling of children playing. You are Pog, a young whippersnapper, just 16 years old, not yet interested in pursuing a craft or occupation, just trying desperately to cling on to the last threads of childhood before the brutal torment of adulthood looms over you. All is well in the village, food is plentiful and life is sweet. However, this was not meant to be.
Without warning everything seemed to go wrong at once. Ug the skilled cultivator of crops and seeds was struck down with a horrific case of Tuberculosis, the sky grew black, as though the fury of the gods was seething into the sky. No sunlight could even penetrate the tight knit, impenetrable mass This great cloud seemed never-ending, scouts reported it stretching as far as they ventured in all directions. Without Ug’s skilled hands and the ever present darkened sky, the newly planted seedlings withered and died, you try your best to assist your fellow villagers to rekindle growth in the now infertile patches of soil that once grew green with the fruit of Ug’s labour. The village chief, a notoriously jolly and rotund man by the name of Ugbert, no relation to Ug, called an immediate moot to discuss the issues that had sprung themselves on our quiet little village.
Everyone could now see that Ugbert was not himself. The beloved, jolly man that had been present mere days ago had vanished, all that remained now was a shadow. Stern and aggravated, his entire body seemed tense, as though the entire village was resting their fate upon his supple, well padded shoulders. “We know not, what has aggravated the Gods so.” Ugbert began mournfully, “But we know it must have been fierce to deserve the reckoning of reckonings that has now been thrust upon our sorrowed halls.” The crowd murmured amongst themselves momentarily, before a voice rang out; “Stop speaking like that you Wazzock”. Weak laughter spilled out amongst the assembled, Ugbert coughed sheepishly before replying “All right mate, just tried to match the vibe being put out. Despite not knowing what has caused the gods to smite us, although I believe it might have been Gum and Gag’s little adult only gatherings happening in their hut every 2nd day.” Ugbert casts a scornful glance at the gleeful couple, one of which was sporting a suspiciously shaped tool. “What we need now is not to shift blame, but to shift solutions. I think spit balling ideas will be best. Come on, any takers. No such thing as a stupid solution to the God’s seeming desire to brutally starve us.”
The crowd was deathly silent, the only noises to be heard were the splashing noises coming from Ug’s hut, most likely the filling of his 4th chamber pot of the day. Until eventually, after a painful silence, Grog, the person everyone wanted least to come up with an idea spurted out “We should sacrifice a virgin!!”
Ugbert immediately retorted; “That is the stupidest thing I have ever heard, I take back what I said earlier. There are stupid solutions. That is one right there. Honestly, I think we actually deserve this smiting if that’s the only solution to come about. Sacrificing a virgin?! Grog you disgust me.”
This slight overreaction was met with another steely silence. Until you realise this is your time. Gone are the days were you lollygagged around, lackadaisically enjoying the fleeting moments of childhood innocence. The village needed a hero, and by golly it’s going to be you. “We should build a monument to the gods, to show we are but humble worms in their mighty plans.”
A lengthy pause follows your outburst, before a general murmuring begins to emerge throughout the crowd. Ugbert stares you down with a quizzical look in his eye before eventually speaking. “I’ve heard worse ideas.” You feel a rush of relief and begin to soak up all the attention being thrown your way. You then hear Ugbert bark your name “Follow me immediately to the elder’s hut.”
The elder’s hut was the centre of the tribe, no decision is made without first going through the doors and through the mouths of those who inhabit it. You have never been allowed inside the hut, the closest you have been to it was back when you were a child and you had to rush to notify the elders that Huk had accidentally chopped his foot off with a pointy boulder he decided to throw at a wall. You follow Ugbert inside, the room is unlike any other you’ve seen before, lush and spacious it is decorated with the finest furs from the many hunts undertaken over the tribe’s existence.
“So, what is this plan to build a monument? I take it you do have a plan and aren’t just winging this?” Ugbert asks you, his whole mass seemed to take up the room, adding gravitas to his piercing question.
[[Stone]]
[[Wood]]
<a href="https://imgur.com/GNvAARu"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/GNvAARu.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>
“Of course I’m not winging it. I know exactly what we need to do. We need to construct a monument that reflects life, something that like we do, grows but then just as we do, dies. We create it from wood. I suggest using the trunk of the largest tree in the forest. It shows the gods how much we appreciate life, but also recognise its fragility and ultimate end.”
Ugbert stares at you for a moment before looking over your shoulder at the Tribe elders who have congregated at the door of the hut. They stare back at him before muttering in agreeance with you. “Well then, it seems like this is the best plan of action” he continued, “Better than Grog’s virgin sacrifice idea. But we must make sure that this plan goes smoothly, we can’t risk angering the god’s more by improperly honouring them. Where exactly are you proposing we build this wooden stick?”
[[Wood monument at the river]]
[[Wood monument at Solar alignment site]]
[[Wood monument at the forest]]
[[Larne]]“Okay. Transporting the stone will be difficult. But the gods want us to struggle, so we can have a greater appreciation for them.”
Ugbert nods understandingly. “We must call in all our greatest minds to work out how to do this.” He looks at the tribe runner “Go fetch the great Ugneardo Da Vugnio.”
Ugneardo Da Vugnio was the town genius, a wildly insane and unpredictable man he was no doubt the exact person needed to come up with a transportation idea.
A couple moments pass before he appears at the door. Bedraggled and bleary-eyed, he mumbles to himself about being underpaid, no-one really knows what this statement means and merely overlooks it. After Ugbert explains the plan to you all, the impromptu committee falls into silent pondering. Small glances are cast around the room by all except Ugneardo, who seems to be in almost a trance. It remains like this for quite a while, until Ugneardo snaps his head up.
“I have 2 ideas. Both are entirely made up in my own mind. But, hehehe, I believe they are both incredibly effective, with the likelihood of them working is easily 99%.” Ugneardo pronounced smugly, the self-importance wafting from him was almost enough to make one throw up. “The first Plan is to roll the stone monument on logs. The idea comes to me after I saw Grog do the same thing on the log pile, except he ended up falling down the well and had to be pulled out by a rope.”
Ugbert looks at you “Well I’m not sure how much I’d trust a plan based on the actions of Grog but it seems sound enough.”
Ugneardo continues “The second plan is quite different to this. It involves us walking the stone to the sites. We surround the stone in ropes and rock it from side to side. Thus we ‘walk’ it to the site.”
[[Carry the stone to the river]]
[[Use rollers to the river]]You hear a commotion behind you, as you turn around you see Ugneardo march towards you, followed by a number of people with large coils of rope in their arms and slung round their backs. “Okay I’ve sourced enough rope to securely walk the stone to the site. Where is it?”
The group of people make short work of roping up the pillar. The 2m tall stone is soon trussed up ready to be gently teased along the dirt path leading to the village. The ropes being used in the transportation were made from a special hemp plant Ug has devised entirely for use as rope. You stand there with baited breath as Ugneardo gives the first command to start rocking the stone from side to side. It begins to wobble, looking precariously close to tumbling over. However, Ugneardo’s plan is sound and soon enough the pillar begins to inch forward.
Progress is slow, but steady. The rocking sounds of the stone pillar seem to echo throughout the surrounding lands, signalling to all those around that a great work was underway. As you slowly reach the village, throngs of people begin to emerge from their huts, children gawp at the size of the pillar, adults start ushering people away, clearing a path through for the imposing sight. You eventually reach the centre of the village, leaving the stone there for transportation the next day.
[[Erection of stone at the river]]
<a href="https://imgur.com/oI91Env"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/oI91Env.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a> You ponder the two choices, but decide that the rolling of the stone seems to be the easiest. “Now I Know it is based on an idea from Grog, but it seems like a sound plan.” You announce to the others.
Ugbert looks around, and then says “Let’s get to it then. Ugneardo, you collect the woodmen and get them to create logs the right size and shape to roll the stone.” He then turns to look at you. “You will then have to get the stone for us. It is too late now, but we must do it when the sun rises in the morning.”
The next morning arrives, the sky is still covered by the immense dark fog. It is hard to even tell that the sun has risen, but nonetheless you arrive at the elder’s hut alongside Ugneardo and Ugbert.
The chief looks at both of you; “Well you both know your jobs, up and at ‘em.”
You venture to the stone quarry that is not too far a walk away from the tribe. Passing through the village, you notice how dark and dreary it had become, you fear this is not just from the cloud hanging above your head, but also from the wrath the gods are bringing upon you all. Passing Ug’s hut you hear yet more horrific noises of a man too sick to do anything, and the smell nearly doubles you over.
You arrive at the quarry to the sound of hammers and chisels, rhythmically banging away, with the crumbling and crashing of falling rocks in the background. The quarry is led by a grumbly old man named Ogg, although his cantankerous personality is offset entirely by his skill as a craftsman and as a quarrier.
“Ogg my old bean.” You immediately cringe to yourself as soon as the words leave your lips. “I have been tasked by the Chief to have a go at sorting out this whole angry gods situation. So I was wondering if it was possible for me to nab a large stone pillar?”
He looks quizzically back at you. “How big are you wanting the pillar. Because we have something that might be what you’re looking for.” He gestured over to a large piece of stone freshly broken from the side of the cliff where it had been carved from. It stood just over 2m tall, perfect for your monument.
“Ogg.” You reply, “That is fantastic, I’d give you a kiss but I think you’d kill me. How about a hug instead.” Before he can reply you pull him into a tight embrace. “Ogg, is that a chisel in your pocket or are you just please to help me….”
You spend more time in the quarry, organizing with Ugg the best way in which to move the large stone out of the quarry.
[[FAILURE AT THE RIVER]]
<a href="https://imgur.com/izIdayC"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/izIdayC.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>
You look around and see Ugbert striding towards you flanked by the elders. “Well this is some accomplishment for you. It looks great, we can only hope now that the gods are favourable to us honouring them like this.”
“There is more we can do.” The sound of Ogg’s rumbling voice carried itself to the group. “We can make this pillar even more impressive, I can carve decorations depicting this great feat into the stone, honouring the gods and showing the effort we have put into this monument.”
Do we carve the stone?
[[Yes carve the stone]]
[[No don't carve the stone]]
<a href="https://imgur.com/xpO5ZJA"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/xpO5ZJA.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>
You show him and the group to the stone that was to be used. “Okay lets get it lowered down and lets start rolling.” Ugneardo barks at the group of people that he assigned to help him. The group all jump into action. They first throw ropes made from a special hemp plant Ug has specially handcrafted for rope around the stone.
Now the rolling begins. The rock is maneuvered to rest atop the thick lumber provided by Ugneardo. The group then carefully begins to roll the pillar away from the quarry, slowly at first but eventually when everyone had realized their place in the team, the pillar began to move at a quicker pace. You sit there and cant believe how well it is all going. But then, as quickly as things began to go well, it all falls apart.
When you reach a high point of the hill beside the village you look behind you to see the fantastic progress made by the moving team. Like a well-oiled machine everyone was moving, as though synched to one another by the task at hand. However, you notice that a new figure has joined the team. Grog has appeared out of nowhere, in his mind to help. You watch with horror as in his eagerness to help, Grog trips up one of the logs carriers. This causes a horrific chain reaction, person tumbling over person, logs jamming into one another, ropes being wrenched out of the hands of those holding them. And, almost in slow motion you see the pillar creak off of the timber rollers, careening down the hill, straight towards Ug’s hut……“The gods are angry that we no longer respect the flow of life. We should place the monument beside the river, as it is a true representation of life and will carry our misgivings downstream away from our homes.”
[[Transportation of wood to river]]
<a href="https://imgur.com/GDfML4z"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/GDfML4z.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>
<iframe
frameborder="0"
width="400"
height="200"
src="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1RSLIUkpQWTPtaKvL3zAmmBMsvxV9KZKJ/preview">
</iframe>“What is more beautiful in life than the forest. It is the peak of plain and simple beauty. It supports life, how many creatures depend upon it for life. They support it just as it supports them. This is just what the gods do for us. Building the monument in the forest will reconnect us with the gods.”
[[Transportation of wood to solar alignment site]]
<a href="https://imgur.com/L4auOFM"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/L4auOFM.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>
<iframe
frameborder="0"
width="400"
height="200"
src="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1g88ahao6Qf0h_W80rcLLE6sclMelc34q/preview">
</iframe>“This cloud that covers us is shielding us form the most direct touch the gods have given us. The Sun. It is a constant reminder that the gods are in control of us. So in order to please them we must honour the Sun, thus honouring the gods.”
[[Transportation of wood in forest]]
<iframe
frameborder="0"
width="400"
height="200"
src="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1g88ahao6Qf0h_W80rcLLE6sclMelc34q/preview">
</iframe>Centuries passed after this and no one knew of the monument. That was until one day during a drought, the farmer who owned the field that once held the monument noticed a strange shaped hole in the ground. Upon investigation by the local university, archaeologists deemed it to be a post hole. Now arguments and debates were had over the reasons for these post holes. However, the size and symbolic meaning of the monument was never to be truly known.
END
Soon the reasons as to why the monument was built begin to fade, the log standing tall on Green Hill soon adopts the green moss that adorns the tree it shares its home with. It remains there, often visited by a villager, who leaves an offering to the gods for whatever situation they find themselves in. The ornate carvings of Dunk still stick out despite the patchy coat of moss and lichen.
But, generation after generation, the pillar is used less and less. Until one day, when your Great Grandchildren’s Great, Great Grandchildren are young, missionaries come to the village. They seek to spread the word of their religion Christianity. No one now goes to the pillar and its existence is forgotten by those it was built for, and then one day, it collapsed. Soon to be swallowed up by the forest it resides in, rotting away to nothing.
END
“Okay” replied Ugbert. “I’m impressed. You have obviously some deep seeded connection with the gods. We must immediately start about the construction of this, what is it you say monument?. Well whatever you call it, how do you suggest we transport it here? That task will no doubt be difficult, and that is only getting it here not even to the sites you have suggested….”
[[Carry the wood]]
“We must show the gods the pain we are willing to go through to honour them. We must organize a group to carry the log back from the forest.
“This makes sense, we need to show our love for the gods and the lengths we are willing to go.” Ugbert replies to you. “In the morning you can get about organising this.”
[[Use an Oxen]]
“Using beasts to do the hard work is obviously the easiest solution. Get the animal handler Chug to organize some oxen to drag the log.”
“I think this is a solid plan” Ugbert replies to you. “In the morning you can get about organising this.”
[[Roll the wood]]
“Yes it is a difficult situation. I think we could just fell the tree, shape in on the ground, and then simply roll it towards the village, before going to site.” You reply to Ugbert.
“This is a good plan. Nice and simple, there isn’t much that could go wrong.” Ugbert replies to you. “In the morning you can get about organising this.”
<iframe
frameborder="0"
width="400"
height="200"
src="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1aNmGmvaAAc5cFPG3RpN4T1foJUysgpcE/preview">
</iframe>Soon, a large throng of people appear at the camp. All eager to help lift the great trunk back to the village.
The task of carrying the log back to the village was not an easy one. Rest breaks had to happen often, or else men would buckle under the weight of the log. However, after several hours of hard work. The log was in the centre of the village and stayed there whilst everyone waited to move it again the next day.
It is a small but peaceful stretch of the river, the gentle babbling meanders of the river are flanked by steep sided banks.
You reach it eventually, with only a couple of close calls under your belt courtesy of Grog, who had to be chased away with a large stick.
[[monument is built by the river]]
<a href="https://imgur.com/TbCpSa1"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/TbCpSa1.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a> Chug arrives at the lumber camp with 2 oxen in tow. Soon the log is strapped to the beasts and is slowly dragged back towards the village.
Whilst slow, the stamina of the beasts makes for short work of the task, reaching the village within a couple of hours, without a hitch. The log sat in the city centre, whilst everyone waiting to move it again the next day.
The next day arrives, and on your way to the log, people are coming up to you. They pat you on the back and praise you for your noble and sensible attempts to save the village.
You smile at them and say “Let’s get moving this thing to the river.”
They immediately kick into gear, far quicker, more confident and more efficient than the day before they began to move the log along the track leading to the river. You already have a plan for the perfect area to place the log.
It is a small but peaceful stretch of the river, the gentle babbling meanders of the river are flanked by steep sided banks.
You reach it eventually, with only a couple of close calls under your belt courtesy of Grog, who had to be chased away with a large stick.
[[monument is built by the river]]
<a href="https://imgur.com/9r8Nk5L"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/9r8Nk5L.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>
<iframe
frameborder="0"
width="400"
height="200"
src="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1n2_P8fzJdQIci7KUdIRmuiQb2sfS7zBz/preview">
</iframe>“Yes it is a difficult situation. I think we could just fell the tree, shape in on the ground, and then simply roll it towards the village, before going to site.” You reply to Ugbert.
“This is a good plan. Nice and simple, there isn’t much that could go wrong.” Ugbert replies to you. “In the morning you can get about organising this.”
Soon others join you, Ugbert has organized an impromptu group to help roll the log to the village. After some conversation sorting the group into teams you begin to roll it along the dirt path.
[[The wood logs roll and crush a group of childern]]
<a href="https://imgur.com/Mtxy44N"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/Mtxy44N.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a> It all begins well, slow at the start but eventually building up speed. That is until Grog decided to help out. In his efforts to assist one of the lead rollers, he collided with a member of the team. Causing a horrible chain reaction. And just like that, the trunk slipped from the control of the rollers, crashing through the undergrowth and smashing against a rock, destroying any use it would have had.
ENDYou look around and see Ugbert striding towards you flanked by the elders. “Well this is some accomplishment for you. It looks great, we can only hope now that the gods are favourable to us honouring them like this.”
“There is more we can do.” The sound of Dunk’s voice carried itself to the group. “We can make this monument even more impressive, I can carve decorations depicting this great feat into the stone, honouring the gods and showing the effort we have put into this monument.”
You look around and see Ugbert striding towards you flanked by the elders. “Well this is some accomplishment for you. It looks great, we can only hope now that the gods are favourable to us honouring them like this.”
“There is more we can do.” The sound of Dunk’s voice carried itself to the group. “We can make this monument even more impressive, I can carve decorations depicting this great feat into the stone, honouring the gods and showing the effort we have put into this monument.”
Shall we carve the monumnet?
[[Yes we will carve the wood by the river]]
[[No we won't carve the wood by the river]]
<a href="https://imgur.com/3bdu6Iu"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/3bdu6Iu.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>“Okay” replied Ugbert. “I’m impressed. You have obviously some deep seeded connection with the gods. We must immediately start about the construction of this, what is it you say monument?. Well whatever you call it, how do you suggest we transport it here? That task will no doubt be difficult, and that is only getting it here not even to the sites you have suggested….”
[[Carry the wood to solar alignment site]]
“We must show the gods the pain we are willing to go through to honour them. We must organize a group to carry the log back from the forest.
“This makes sense, we need to show our love for the gods and the lengths we are willing to go.” Ugbert replies to you. “In the morning you can get about organising this.”
[[Use an Oxen to the solar alignment site]]
“Using beasts to do the hard work is obviously the easiest solution. Get the animal handler Chug to organize some oxen to drag the log.”
“I think this is a solid plan” Ugbert replies to you. “In the morning you can get about organising this.”
[[Roll the wood to the solar alignment site]]
“Yes it is a difficult situation. I think we could just fell the tree, shape in on the ground, and then simply roll it towards the village, before going to site.” You reply to Ugbert.
“This is a good plan. Nice and simple, there isn’t much that could go wrong.” Ugbert replies to you. “In the morning you can get about organising this.”
<iframe
frameborder="0"
width="400"
height="200"
src="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1aNmGmvaAAc5cFPG3RpN4T1foJUysgpcE/preview">
</iframe>“Okay” replied Ugbert. “I’m impressed. You have obviously some deep seeded connection with the gods. We must immediately start about the construction of this, what is it you say monument?. Well whatever you call it, how do you suggest we transport it here? That task will no doubt be difficult, and that is only getting it here not even to the sites you have suggested….”
[[Carry the wood to forest]]
“We must show the gods the pain we are willing to go through to honour them. We must organize a group to carry the log back from the forest.
“This makes sense, we need to show our love for the gods and the lengths we are willing to go.” Ugbert replies to you. “In the morning you can get about organising this.”
[[Use an Oxen to the forest]]
“Using beasts to do the hard work is obviously the easiest solution. Get the animal handler Chug to organize some oxen to drag the log.”
“I think this is a solid plan” Ugbert replies to you. “In the morning you can get about organising this.”
[[Roll the wood to the forest]]
“Yes it is a difficult situation. I think we could just fell the tree, shape in on the ground, and then simply roll it towards the village, before going to site.” You reply to Ugbert.
“This is a good plan. Nice and simple, there isn’t much that could go wrong.” Ugbert replies to you. “In the morning you can get about organising this.”
<iframe
frameborder="0"
width="400"
height="200"
src="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1aNmGmvaAAc5cFPG3RpN4T1foJUysgpcE/preview">
</iframe>Soon, a large throng of people appear at the camp. All eager to help lift the great trunk back to the village.
The task of carrying the log back to the village was not an easy one. Rest breaks had to happen often, or else men would buckle under the weight of the log. However, after several hours of hard work. The log was in the centre of the village and stayed there whilst everyone waited to move it again the next day.
You smile at them and say “Let’s move this thing to the clearing.”
They start immediately, transporting the log towards a large clearing located near the forest, where trees had been cut down many moons ago by your forebears.
The log is to be placed at the centre of this clearing, lining up perfectly with the impending summer equinox.
You reach it eventually, with only a couple of close calls under your belt courtesy of Grog, who had to be chased away with a large stick.
[[monument is built in solar alignment]]
Chug arrives at the lumber camp with 2 oxen in tow. Soon the log is strapped to the beasts and is slowly dragged back towards the village.
Whilst slow, the stamina of the beasts makes for short work of the task, reaching the village within a couple of hours, without a hitch. The log sat in the city centre, whilst everyone waiting to move it again the next day.
The next day arrives, and on your way to the log, people are coming up to you. They pat you on the back and praise you for your noble and sensible attempts to save the village.
You smile at them and say “Let’s move this thing to the clearing.”
They start immediately, transporting the log towards a large clearing located near the forest, where trees had been cut down many moons ago by your forebears.
The log is to be placed at the centre of this clearing, lining up perfectly with the impending summer equinox.
You reach it eventually, with only a couple of close calls under your belt courtesy of Grog, who had to be chased away with a large stick.
[[monument is built in solar alignment]] “Yes it is a difficult situation. I think we could just fell the tree, shape in on the ground, and then simply roll it towards the village, before going to site.” You reply to Ugbert.
“This is a good plan. Nice and simple, there isn’t much that could go wrong.” Ugbert replies to you. “In the morning you can get about organising this.”
Soon others join you, Ugbert has organized an impromptu group to help roll the log to the village. After some conversation sorting the group into teams you begin to roll it along the dirt path.
[[The wood logs roll and crush a group of childern 2]]
<a href="https://imgur.com/Mtxy44N"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/Mtxy44N.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a> Soon, a large throng of people appear at the camp. All eager to help lift the great trunk back to the village.
The task of carrying the log back to the village was not an easy one. Rest breaks had to happen often, or else men would buckle under the weight of the log. However, after several hours of hard work. The log was in the centre of the village and stayed there whilst everyone waited to move it again the next day.
You smile at them and say “Let’s get moving this thing to Green Hill.”
Green Hill was the exact place in mind you had to erect a monument to the gods. A small hill in the local forest, Green Hill rose slightly above the surrounding landscape, showing the god’s power and sight over everything we see and live in.
You eventually reach the hill, the terrain of the forest hindering you advance, slowing you down.
You reach it eventually, with only a couple of close calls under your belt courtesy of Grog, who had to be chased away with a large stick.
[[monument is built in the forest]] Chug arrives at the lumber camp with 2 oxen in tow. Soon the log is strapped to the beasts and is slowly dragged back towards the village.
Whilst slow, the stamina of the beasts makes for short work of the task, reaching the village within a couple of hours, without a hitch. The log sat in the city centre, whilst everyone waiting to move it again the next day.
The next day arrives, and on your way to the log, people are coming up to you. They pat you on the back and praise you for your noble and sensible attempts to save the village.
You smile at them and say “Let’s get moving this thing to Green Hill.”
Green Hill was the exact place in mind you had to erect a monument to the gods. A small hill in the local forest, Green Hill rose slightly above the surrounding landscape, showing the god’s power and sight over everything we see and live in.
You reach it eventually, with only a couple of close calls under your belt courtesy of Grog, who had to be chased away with a large stick.
[[monument is built in the forest]] “Yes it is a difficult situation. I think we could just fell the tree, shape in on the ground, and then simply roll it towards the village, before going to site.” You reply to Ugbert.
“This is a good plan. Nice and simple, there isn’t much that could go wrong.” Ugbert replies to you. “In the morning you can get about organising this.”
Soon others join you, Ugbert has organized an impromptu group to help roll the log to the village. After some conversation sorting the group into teams you begin to roll it along the dirt path.
[[The wood logs roll and crush a group of childern 3]]
<a href="https://imgur.com/Mtxy44N"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/Mtxy44N.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a> You look around and see Ugbert striding towards you flanked by the elders. “Well this is some accomplishment for you. It looks great, we can only hope now that the gods are favourable to us honouring them like this.”
“There is more we can do.” The sound of Dunk’s voice carried itself to the group. “We can make this monument even more impressive, I can carve decorations depicting this great feat into the stone, honouring the gods and showing the effort we have put into this monument.”
You look around and see Ugbert striding towards you flanked by the elders. “Well this is some accomplishment for you. It looks great, we can only hope now that the gods are favourable to us honouring them like this.”
“There is more we can do.” The sound of Dunk’s voice carried itself to the group. “We can make this monument even more impressive, I can carve decorations depicting this great feat into the stone, honouring the gods and showing the effort we have put into this monument.”
Shall we carve the monumnet?
[[Yes we will carve the wood in solar alignment ]]
[[No we won't carve the wood in solar alignment ]]
<a href="https://imgur.com/3bdu6Iu"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/3bdu6Iu.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>It all begins well, slow at the start but eventually building up speed. That is until Grog decided to help out. In his efforts to assist one of the lead rollers, he collided with a member of the team. Causing a horrible chain reaction. And just like that, the trunk slipped from the control of the rollers, crashing through the undergrowth and smashing against a rock, destroying any use it would have had.
ENDIt all begins well, slow at the start but eventually building up speed. That is until Grog decided to help out. In his efforts to assist one of the lead rollers, he collided with a member of the team. Causing a horrible chain reaction. And just like that, the trunk slipped from the control of the rollers, crashing through the undergrowth and smashing against a rock, destroying any use it would have had.
ENDYou look around and see Ugbert striding towards you flanked by the elders. “Well this is some accomplishment for you. It looks great, we can only hope now that the gods are favourable to us honouring them like this.”
“There is more we can do.” The sound of Dunk’s voice carried itself to the group. “We can make this monument even more impressive, I can carve decorations depicting this great feat into the stone, honouring the gods and showing the effort we have put into this monument.”
You look around and see Ugbert striding towards you flanked by the elders. “Well this is some accomplishment for you. It looks great, we can only hope now that the gods are favourable to us honouring them like this.”
“There is more we can do.” The sound of Dunk’s voice carried itself to the group. “We can make this monument even more impressive, I can carve decorations depicting this great feat into the stone, honouring the gods and showing the effort we have put into this monument.”
Shall we carve the monumnet?
[[Yes we will carve the wood in the forest]]
[[No we won't carve the wood in the forest]]
<a href="https://imgur.com/3bdu6Iu"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/3bdu6Iu.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>
<iframe
frameborder="0"
width="400"
height="200"
src="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1g88ahao6Qf0h_W80rcLLE6sclMelc34q/preview">
</iframe>You agree with Dunk that a depiction of the events that lead to this would best honour the gods and lead to being saved from the crisis.
He starts straight away, using a chisel he carves out a delicate number of scenes on the face of the log, showing the realization for the need of the monument, the process of moving it to the site, and most importantly the reason why you chose the site.
[[the wood is carved by the river and is used by the people]]
<a href="https://imgur.com/3bdu6Iu"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/3bdu6Iu.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>
<iframe
frameborder="0"
width="400"
height="200"
src="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1j7CtxFbD2Jsu2xZpbkssNI3KGiaJYkO6/preview">
</iframe>You disagree with Dunk, stating that the monument is enough, and we can’t risk to be seen trying to glamourize our own involvement in constructing the monument as it may incur the wrath of the gods.
[[the wood sinks in the river and is never found]]
<iframe
frameborder="0"
width="400"
height="200"
src="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1RPie0Tub0jxQgEO6SXyXGt5Atopk7Dus/preview">
</iframe>You agree with Dunk that a depiction of the events that lead to this would best honour the gods and lead to being saved from the crisis.
He starts straight away, using a chisel he carves out a delicate number of scenes on the face of the log, showing the realization for the need of the monument, the process of moving it to the site, and most importantly the reason why you chose the site.
[[The moument is used as is]]
<a href="https://imgur.com/3bdu6Iu"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/3bdu6Iu.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>
<iframe
frameborder="0"
width="400"
height="200"
src="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1j7CtxFbD2Jsu2xZpbkssNI3KGiaJYkO6/preview">
</iframe>You disagree with Dunk, stating that the monument is enough, and we can’t risk to be seen trying to glamourize our own involvement in constructing the monument as it may incur the wrath of the gods.
[[The moument is used as is]]
<a href="https://imgur.com/3bdu6Iu"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/3bdu6Iu.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>
<iframe
frameborder="0"
width="400"
height="200"
src="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1j7CtxFbD2Jsu2xZpbkssNI3KGiaJYkO6/preview">
</iframe>You agree with Dunk that a depiction of the events that lead to this would best honour the gods and lead to being saved from the crisis.
He starts straight away, using a chisel he carves out a delicate number of scenes on the face of the log, showing the realization for the need of the monument, the process of moving it to the site, and most importantly the reason why you chose the site.
[[the wood is carved and placed in aligment with the sun]]
<a href="https://imgur.com/3bdu6Iu"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/3bdu6Iu.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>
<iframe
frameborder="0"
width="400"
height="200"
src="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1j7CtxFbD2Jsu2xZpbkssNI3KGiaJYkO6/preview">
</iframe>You disagree with Dunk, stating that the monument is enough, and we can’t risk to be seen trying to glamourize our own involvement in constructing the monument as it may incur the wrath of the gods.
Later that day a ceremony is called to celebrate the new monument honouring the gods. The whole tribe is there, even Ug makes an appearance, although fatigued and looking like death he is in good spirits and clearly on the mend.
In the following days it is clear that gods have approved of your decision to erect a monument to them. The cloud disperses, blasting the village with beautiful and much needed sunlight. Ug is back tending the fields within a matter of days, ensuring a bountiful harvest of food to come.
[[the uncarved wood is placed in alignment with the sun]]
<a href="https://imgur.com/3bdu6Iu"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/3bdu6Iu.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>
<iframe
frameborder="0"
width="400"
height="200"
src="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1j7CtxFbD2Jsu2xZpbkssNI3KGiaJYkO6/preview">
</iframe><a href="https://imgur.com/G6te8Zb"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/G6te8Zb.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>
Soon the reasons as to why the monument was built begin to fade, the tall imposing log built on the banks of the river seems to have always been there. It soon becomes a place for quiet prayer, to recollect on what we are thankful for. Villagers leave gifts and offerings to the gods. Fishermen sit in the shade provided by it to combat the heat of a summers day, the boats use it as a marker in the spring when the snowfall causes the river to swell.
But many years after it was constructed, a large storm came through, causing the river banks to burst then crumble away, bringing the log with it. Settling at the bottom of the river, slowly becoming waterlogged, perfectly preserved, waiting to be found.
[[Dendro dave dates it]]
<iframe
frameborder="0"
width="400"
height="200"
src="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1r2YW9FRIXqbzSvo-rJhF1xTsqhUJ9-Up/preview">
</iframe>The monument holds great significance in the hearts of the villagers. Every summer equinox, the whole village stands around the log, marvelling at the beauty of the world the gods have given them. The gorgeous carvings of Dunk stand proudly on the face of the stone.
This tradition continues for generations, countless summers were spent under the giant stone pillar, that is until the missionaries came. They sought to spread the word of Christianity, and once they had completed this goal they tore down any remnants of the old religion.
The log that once stood looking over all of the villagers, was no more.
[[The log that once stood looking over all of the villagers, was no more]]
<iframe
frameborder="0"
width="400"
height="200"
src="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1W3o51tbSb4jZT6nB8xpzejiozqgo6SEx/preview">
</iframe>The monument holds great significance in the hearts of the villagers. Every summer equinox, the whole village stands around the log, marvelling at the beauty of the world the gods have given them.
This tradition continues for generations, countless summers were spent under the giant stone pillar, that is until the missionaries came. They sought to spread the word of Christianity, and once they had completed this goal they tore down any remnants of the old religion.
The log that once stood looking over all of the villagers, was no more.
[[The log that once stood looking over all of the villagers, was no more. ]]
<iframe
frameborder="0"
width="400"
height="200"
src="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1gzXnce-19eQlyPYCsgd4m1Ypp2MA9F1G/preview">
</iframe>“The gods are angry that we no longer respect the flow of life. We should place the monument beside the river, as it is a true representation of life and will carry our misgivings downstream away from our homes.”
[[Materials acquired for river]]
<a href="https://imgur.com/DeQWlQi"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/DeQWlQi.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>
<iframe
frameborder="0"
width="400"
height="200"
src="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1RSLIUkpQWTPtaKvL3zAmmBMsvxV9KZKJ/preview">
</iframe>“This cloud that covers us is shielding us form the most direct touch the gods have given us. The Sun. It is a constant reminder that the gods are in control of us. SO in order to please them we must honour the Sun, thus honouring the gods.”
[[Materials acquired for Solar alignment]]
<a href="https://imgur.com/uhzoTQz"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/uhzoTQz.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>
<iframe
frameborder="0"
width="400"
height="200"
src="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1g88ahao6Qf0h_W80rcLLE6sclMelc34q/preview">
</iframe>“What is more beautiful in life than the forest. It is the peak of plain and simple beauty. It supports life, how many creatures depend upon it for life. They support it just as it supports them. This is just what the gods do for us. Building the monument in the forest will reconnect us with the gods.”
[[Materials acquired for forest]]
<iframe
frameborder="0"
width="400"
height="200"
src="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1g88ahao6Qf0h_W80rcLLE6sclMelc34q/preview">
</iframe>“Okay” replied Ugbert. “I’m impressed. You have obviously some deep seeded connection with the gods. We must immediately start about the construction of this, what is it you say monument?. Well whatever you call it, how do you suggest we transport it here? That task will no doubt be difficult, and that is only getting it here not even to the sites you have suggested….”
[[Transported to the river]][[Transported to monument in solar alignment]] [[Carry the stone to monument site]]
[[Use rollers to the monument site]] You hear a commotion behind you, as you turn around you see Ugneardo march towards you, followed by a number of people with large coils of rope in their arms and slung round their backs. “Okay I’ve sourced enough rope to securely walk the stone to the site. Where is it?”
The group of people make short work of roping up the pillar. The 2m tall stone is soon trussed up ready to be gently teased along the dirt path leading to the village. The ropes being used in the transportation were made from a special hemp plant Ug has devised entirely for use as rope. You stand there with baited breath as Ugneardo gives the first command to start rocking the stone from side to side. It begins to wobble, looking precariously close to tumbling over. However, Ugneardo’s plan is sound and soon enough the pillar begins to inch forward.
Progress is slow, but steady. The rocking sounds of the stone pillar seem to echo throughout the surrounding lands, signalling to all those around that a great work was underway. As you slowly reach the village, throngs of people begin to emerge from their huts, children gawp at the size of the pillar, adults start ushering people away, clearing a path through for the imposing sight. You eventually reach the centre of the village, leaving the stone there for transportation the next day.
[[Erection of stone at solar alignment]]
<a href="https://imgur.com/oI91Env"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/oI91Env.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a> You ponder the two choices, but decide that the rolling of the stone seems to be the easiest. “Now I Know it is based on an idea from Grog, but it seems like a sound plan.” You announce to the others.
Ugbert looks around, and then says “Let’s get to it then. Ugneardo, you collect the woodmen and get them to create logs the right size and shape to roll the stone.” He then turns to look at you. “You will then have to get the stone for us. It is too late now, but we must do it when the sun rises in the morning.”
The next morning arrives, the sky is still covered by the immense dark fog. It is hard to even tell that the sun has risen, but nonetheless you arrive at the elder’s hut alongside Ugneardo and Ugbert.
The chief looks at both of you; “Well you both know your jobs, up and at ‘em.”
You arrive at the quarry to the sound of hammers and chisels, rhythmically banging away, with the crumbling and crashing of falling rocks in the background. The quarry is led by a grumbly old man named Ogg, although his cantankerous personality is offset entirely by his skill as a craftsman and as a quarrier.
“Ogg my old bean.” You cringe as the words leave your lips. “I have been tasked by the Chief to have a go at sorting out this whole angry gods situation. So I was wondering if it was possible for me to nab a large stone pillar?”
He looks quizzically back at you. “How big are you wanting the pillar. Because we have something that might be what you’re looking for.” He gestured over to a large piece of stone freshly broken from the side of the cliff where it had been carved from. It stood just over 2m tall, perfect for your monument.
“Ogg.” You reply, “That is fantastic, I’d give you a kiss but I think you’d kill me. How about a hug instead.” Before he can reply you pull him into a tight embrace. “Ogg, is that a chisel in your pocket or are you just please to help me….”
You spend more time in the quarry, organizing with Ugg the best way in which to move the large stone out of the quarry.
[[FAILURE AT THE MONUMENT SITE]]
<a href="https://imgur.com/izIdayC"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/izIdayC.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>
You show him and the group to the stone that was to be used. “Okay lets get it lowered down and lets start rolling.” Ugneardo barks at the group of people that he assigned to help him. The group all jump into action. They first throw ropes made from a special hemp plant Ug has specially handcrafted for rope around the stone.
Now the rolling begins. The rock is maneuvered to rest atop the thick lumber provided by Ugneardo. The group then carefully begins to roll the pillar away from the quarry, slowly at first but eventually when everyone had realized their place in the team, the pillar began to move at a quicker pace. You sit there and cant believe how well it is all going. But then, as quickly as things began to go well, it all falls apart.
When you reach a high point of the hill beside the village you look behind you to see the fantastic progress made by the moving team. Like a well-oiled machine everyone was moving, as though synched to one another by the task at hand. However, you notice that a new figure has joined the team. Grog has appeared out of nowhere, in his mind to help. You watch with horror as in his eagerness to help, Grog trips up one of the logs carriers. This causes a horrific chain reaction, person tumbling over person, logs jamming into one another, ropes being wrenched out of the hands of those holding them. And, almost in slow motion you see the pillar creak off of the timber rollers, careening down the hill, straight towards Ug’s hut……Do we carve the stone?
[[Yes carve the stone for solar alignment]]
[[No do not carve the stone for solar alignment]] [[Transported to the forest]] [[Carry the stone to the forest]]
[[Use rollers to the forest]] You hear a commotion behind you, as you turn around you see Ugneardo march towards you, followed by a number of people with large coils of rope in their arms and slung round their backs. “Okay I’ve sourced enough rope to securely walk the stone to the site. Where is it?”
The group of people make short work of roping up the pillar. The 2m tall stone is soon trussed up ready to be gently teased along the dirt path leading to the village. The ropes being used in the transportation were made from a special hemp plant Ug has devised entirely for use as rope. You stand there with baited breath as Ugneardo gives the first command to start rocking the stone from side to side. It begins to wobble, looking precariously close to tumbling over. However, Ugneardo’s plan is sound and soon enough the pillar begins to inch forward.
Progress is slow, but steady. The rocking sounds of the stone pillar seem to echo throughout the surrounding lands, signalling to all those around that a great work was underway. As you slowly reach the village, throngs of people begin to emerge from their huts, children gawp at the size of the pillar, adults start ushering people away, clearing a path through for the imposing sight. You eventually reach the centre of the village, leaving the stone there for transportation the next day.
[[Erection of stone at the forest]]
<a href="https://imgur.com/oI91Env"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/oI91Env.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a> You ponder the two choices, but decide that the rolling of the stone seems to be the easiest. “Now I Know it is based on an idea from Grog, but it seems like a sound plan.” You announce to the others.
Ugbert looks around, and then says “Let’s get to it then. Ugneardo, you collect the woodmen and get them to create logs the right size and shape to roll the stone.” He then turns to look at you. “You will then have to get the stone for us. It is too late now, but we must do it when the sun rises in the morning.”
The next morning arrives, the sky is still covered by the immense dark fog. It is hard to even tell that the sun has risen, but nonetheless you arrive at the elder’s hut alongside Ugneardo and Ugbert.
The chief looks at both of you; “Well you both know your jobs, up and at ‘em.”
You venture to the stone quarry that is not too far a walk away from the tribe. Passing through the village, you notice how dark and dreary it had become, you fear this is not just from the cloud hanging above your head, but also from the wrath the gods are bringing upon you all. Passing Ug’s hut you hear yet more horrific noises of a man too sick to do anything, and the smell nearly doubles you over.
You arrive at the quarry to the sound of hammers and chisels, rhythmically banging away, with the crumbling and crashing of falling rocks in the background. The quarry is led by a grumbly old man named Ogg, although his cantankerous personality is offset entirely by his skill as a craftsman and as a quarrier.
“Ogg my old bean.” You immediately cringe to yourself as soon as the words leave your lips. “I have been tasked by the Chief to have a go at sorting out this whole angry gods situation. So I was wondering if it was possible for me to nab a large stone pillar?”
He looks quizzically back at you. “How big are you wanting the pillar. Because we have something that might be what you’re looking for.” He gestured over to a large piece of stone freshly broken from the side of the cliff where it had been carved from. It stood just over 2m tall, perfect for your monument.
“Ogg.” You reply, “That is fantastic, I’d give you a kiss but I think you’d kill me. How about a hug instead.” Before he can reply you pull him into a tight embrace. “Ogg, is that a chisel in your pocket or are you just please to help me….”
You spend more time in the quarry, organizing with Ugg the best way in which to move the large stone out of the quarry.
[[FAILURE AT THE FOREST]]
<a href="https://imgur.com/izIdayC"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/izIdayC.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>
You show him and the group to the stone that was to be used. “Okay lets get it lowered down and lets start rolling.” Ugneardo barks at the group of people that he assigned to help him. The group all jump into action. They first throw ropes made from a special hemp plant Ug has specially handcrafted for rope around the stone.
Now the rolling begins. The rock is maneuvered to rest atop the thick lumber provided by Ugneardo. The group then carefully begins to roll the pillar away from the quarry, slowly at first but eventually when everyone had realized their place in the team, the pillar began to move at a quicker pace. You sit there and cant believe how well it is all going. But then, as quickly as things began to go well, it all falls apart.
When you reach a high point of the hill beside the village you look behind you to see the fantastic progress made by the moving team. Like a well-oiled machine everyone was moving, as though synched to one another by the task at hand. However, you notice that a new figure has joined the team. Grog has appeared out of nowhere, in his mind to help. You watch with horror as in his eagerness to help, Grog trips up one of the logs carriers. This causes a horrific chain reaction, person tumbling over person, logs jamming into one another, ropes being wrenched out of the hands of those holding them. And, almost in slow motion you see the pillar creak off of the timber rollers, careening down the hill, straight towards Ug’s hut……Do we carve the stone?
[[Yes carve the stone in the forest ]]
[[No don't carve the stone in the forest ]] You agree with Ogg that a depiction of the events that lead to this would best honour the gods and lead to being saved from the crisis.
He starts straight away, using a chisel he carves out a delicate number of scenes on the face of the pillar, showing the realization for the need of the monument, the process of moving it to the site, and most importantly the reason why you chose the site.
[[Carved stone monument used at the River]]
<a href="https://imgur.com/xk4YgVu"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/xk4YgVu.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>
<iframe
frameborder="0"
width="400"
height="200"
src="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1BDWiX2MjAm7xVVioTL_94se7DY15IKNj/preview">
</iframe>You disagree with Ogg, stating that the monument is enough, and we can’t risk to be seen trying to glamourize our own involvement in constructing the monument as it may incur the wrath of the gods.
[[Uncarved Stone used by the river]]You agree with Ogg that a depiction of the events that lead to this would best honour the gods and lead to being saved from the crisis.
He starts straight away, using a chisel he carves out a delicate number of scenes on the face of the pillar, showing the realization for the need of the monument, the process of moving it to the site, and most importantly the reason why you chose the site.
[[Carved stone monument used in a solar alignment]]
<a href="https://imgur.com/xk4YgVu"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/xk4YgVu.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>You disagree with Ogg, stating that the monument is enough, and we can’t risk to be seen trying to glamourize our own involvement in constructing the monument as it may incur the wrath of the gods.
[[Uncarved Stone used in solar alignment]]
<a href="https://imgur.com/7HoQYVi"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/7HoQYVi.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a> You agree with Ogg that a depiction of the events that lead to this would best honour the gods and lead to being saved from the crisis.
He starts straight away, using a chisel he carves out a delicate number of scenes on the face of the pillar, showing the realization for the need of the monument, the process of moving it to the site, and most importantly the reason why you chose the site.
[[Carved stone monument used in the forest]]
<a href="https://imgur.com/xk4YgVu"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/xk4YgVu.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>You disagree with Ogg, stating that the monument is enough, and we can’t risk to be seen trying to glamourize our own involvement in constructing the monument as it may incur the wrath of the gods.
[[Uncarved Stone used in the forest]]The monument holds great significance in the hearts of the villagers. Every summer equinox, the whole village stands around the pillar, marvelling at the beauty of the world the gods have given them. The gorgeous carvings of Ogg stand proudly on the face of the stone.
This tradition continues for generations, countless summers were spent under the giant stone pillar, that is until the missionaries came. They sought to spread the word of Christianity, and once they had completed this goal they tore down any remnants of the [[old religion]].
<iframe
frameborder="0"
width="400"
height="200"
src="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1Z7O9l4RqEzGTHY9xPRhg59nSm1pdX2br/preview">
</iframe>Soon the reasons as to why the monument was built begin to fade, the pillar standing tall on Green Hill soon adopts the green moss that adorns the tree it shares its home with. It remains there, often visited by a villager, who leaves an offering to the gods for whatever situation they find themselves in. The ornate carvings of Ogg still stick out despite the patchy coat of moss and lichen.
But, generation after generation, the pillar is used less and less. Until one day, when your Great Grandchildren’s Great, Great Grandchildren are young, missionaries come to the village. They seek to spread the word of their religion Christianity. No one now goes to the pillar and its existence is forgotten by those it was built for.
But it stayed on Green Hill, the layer of green growing ever thicker until it was covered completely. Still it stood there defiant and strong in the face of time. Until one day, centuries after it was erected, a young boy, who ran astray of their parents on a walk in the forest came upon the stone.
[[upon the stone]]
<iframe
frameborder="0"
width="400"
height="200"
src="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1RPie0Tub0jxQgEO6SXyXGt5Atopk7Dus/preview">
</iframe>Soon the reasons as to why the monument was built begin to fade, the tall imposing pillar built on the banks of the river seems to have always been there. It soon becomes a place for quiet prayer, to recollect on what we are thankful for. Villagers leave gifts and offerings to the gods. Fishermen sit in the shade provided by the pillar to combat the heat of a summers day, the boats use it as a marker in the spring when the snowfall causes the river to swell.
Eventually however, as with all things, time erodes away, the monument becomes less and less important, until one day it is gone. A large storm cause a violent bursting of the river banks. Causing the pillar to simply slip away into the river. And there it stays. At first it was reminisced about, until one day the last person to have seen it in all its glory passes, and soon any memories or tales of the pillar pass too. But the pillar remains, although never to be found again.
END
<iframe
frameborder="0"
width="400"
height="200"
src="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1n2_P8fzJdQIci7KUdIRmuiQb2sfS7zBz/preview">
</iframe>Soon the reasons as to why the monument was built begin to fade, the tall imposing pillar built on the banks of the river seems to have always been there. It soon becomes a place for quiet prayer, to recollect on what we are thankful for. Villagers leave gifts and offerings to the gods. Fishermen sit in the shade provided by the pillar to combat the heat of a summers day, the boats use it as a marker in the spring when the snowfall causes the river to [[swell]].
Soon the reasons as to why the monument was built begin to fade, the pillar standing tall on Green Hill soon adopts the green moss that adorns the tree it shares its home with. It remains there, often visited by a villager, who leaves an offering to the gods for whatever situation they find themselves in.
But, generation after generation, the pillar is used less and less. Until one day, when your Great Grandchildren’s Great, Great Grandchildren are young, missionaries come to the village. They seek to spread the word of their religion Christianity. No one now goes to the pillar and its existence is forgotten by those it was built for.
But it stayed on Green Hill, the layer of green growing ever thicker until it was covered completely. Still it stood there defiant and strong in the face of time. Until one day, centuries after it was erected, a young boy, who ran astray of their parents on a walk in the forest came upon [[the stone]].
<iframe
frameborder="0"
width="400"
height="200"
src="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1zqQ8ZGLM8GP9R3yA9pBjchMqqllRK15k/preview">
</iframe>The monument holds great significance in the hearts of the villagers. Every summer equinox, the whole village stands around the pillar, marvelling at the beauty of the world the gods have given them.
This tradition continues for generations, countless summers were spent under the giant stone pillar, that is until the missionaries came. They sought to spread the word of Christianity, and once they had completed this goal they tore down any remnants of the old religion.
This grand old stone, that had weathered the test of time, was toppled. It was then broken down into small chunks and used to build the floor of the new chapel.
Soon even the memory of the stone was gone from the minds of all the villagers.
[[Christians take over site to stamp out pagans-uncarved]]
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</iframe>The once mighty standing stone has no been reduced to rubble. Being used by the very people who destroyed it. The flagstones were then covered by carpet in a bid to modernize the church. And eventually this carpet was replaced. But nothing is thought of the simple flagstones used under the flooring. No memories are had of the generations it spent standing in the baking sun, torrential downpours or freezing snowstorms. The pieces are now simply forgotten about.
END
Centuries passed after this and no one knew of the monument. That was until one day during a drought, the farmer who owned the field that once held the monument noticed a strange shaped hole in the ground. Upon investigation by the local university, archaeologists deemed it to be a post hole. Now arguments and debates were had over the reasons for these post holes. However, the true beauty and symbolic meaning of the monument was never to be truly known.
END
The boy told his parents about the stone, and eventually, word began to spread about the existence of the pillar. Not long after a team of archaeologists arrived to investigate the claims about a large standing stone in [[the forest]].
It lay like this for centuries, until one day when large works were conducted on the river bed, workmen discovered the log whilst dredging the river bed. They soon saw the intricate carvings present on the face of the log. It was soon passed to the local university, where investigations were carried out by dendrochronologists about the log and its purpose. The carvings on the face of the log helped revolutionise the beliefs held about neolithic symbolic monuments. Articles were published about the intricate level of detail present in the art decorating the log, although they were unsure as to how it ended up in the river.
END
<a href="https://imgur.com/PH4n6wt"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/PH4n6wt.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>“Of course I’m not winging it. I know exactly what we need to do. We need to create a monument to the God’s that does not bend or break in bad weather, that does not vanish with the passing of time. We must use stone! We can use the local stone from the quarry. Showing the gods our appreciation for the world around us. We can carve it out of the rock face!”
Ugbert stares at you for a moment before looking over your shoulder at the Tribe elders who have congregated at the door of the hut. They stare back at him before muttering in agreeance with you. “Well then, it seems like this is the best plan of action” he continued, “Better than Grog’s virgin sacrifice idea. But we must make sure that this plan goes smoothly, we can’t risk angering the god’s more by improperly honouring them. Where exactly are you proposing we build this stone stick?”
[[River]]
[[solar alignment]]
[[Forest]]
[[Larne]]You answer Ugbert “I’ve heard there is a place associated with the Gods named Larne. I think it would be best to place the monument there.”
There is a notable pause after you suggest this. The Elders look at you with shock. “There is indeed such a place. But it’s forbidden for us to even speak of it.” You are summarily executed. Eventually however, as with all things, time erodes away, the monument becomes less and less important, until one day it is gone. A large storm cause a violent bursting of the river banks. Causing the pillar to simply slip away into the river. All markings and carvings eroded away. And there it stays. At first it was reminisced about, until one day the last person to have seen it in all its glory passes, and soon any memories or tales of the pillar pass too. But the pillar remains, although never to be found again.
ENDUpon closer inspection, and removal of the moss, the archaeologists realise the importance of their discovery. An intact neolithic standing stone. There is much conjecture about the nature of the standing stone, as the carvings are no longer as clear as they once were. Many papers are written discussing the possible reasons for the stone being erected, some claim it was a site of human sacrifice, due to a partial carving of Ug being violently sick into a bucket. But, the general consensus is that it was erected as a holy site, and that the area had some deep symbolism to the locals.
ENDThis grand old stone, that had weathered the test of time, was toppled. It was then broken down into small chunks and used to build the floor of the new chapel.
Soon even the memory of the stone was gone from the minds of all [[the villagers]].
The stones remain in the church floor. They are used by many generations of the congregation, before eventually being covered by carpet.
It remains like this a century until the church decide to renovate the chapel, replacing all the carpets. It is in this replacement of the carpet that the stones are rediscovered.
Upon the removal of the old carpet, workmen realise that some of the chunks of stone are not simple flagstones, but rather highly decorated pieces of stone. The church calls in local experts from university, who study the large [[chunks of stone]].
It is clear to them that this is more complex than a simple carved shaped. They date the style and quality of the carvings back to the neolithic. However, the original purpose of the stone is not known. Some argue that the stone was once part of a chair used by the village chiefs, with others offering more simplistic answers that it was simply carved pieces of stone used as decoration.
Unfortunately the true meaning and design of the stone is unknown. And many debates can be had, but no one will know if they are correct.
END
The boy told his parents about the stone, and eventually, word began to spread about the existence of the pillar. Not long after a team of archaeologists arrived to investigate the claims about a large standing stone in the forest.
The stone was cleaned, its surroundings excavated, and the findings published. The Investigations were not overly in depth due to the simple nature of the stone. The lack of carvings has meant that the stone pillar on Green Hill was simply remembered as another Irish Standing Stone. It was referenced in many pieces of literature, and the site was visited by many families out on an adventure and those interested in archaeology. But its discovery is nothing overly new or exciting.
END