Legends of the Great Owl

The Great Owl (Nocturna) is the central figure in Muridae mythology and the primary protector of The Shrouded Boughs. Her legends are passed down through generations, often told in the reading alcoves of Thorne’s Library or around the small, glowing fires of Drift-Haven.

The First Vigil

The most foundational legend is that of "The First Vigil." It is said that when the Mother-Tree first grew, it was vulnerable to the giant gulls of the open sea. The Great Owl, seeing the tiny Mousefolk struggling to survive, descended from the silver moon and perched atop the tree’s highest branch. She declared that so long as the Muridae remained silent and respectful of the forest, she would hunt the predators that threatened them.

The Theft of the Sun

Another popular tale is "The Theft of the Sun," which explains why the forest is eternally misty. In this story, the Great Owl stole a fragment of the sun and hid it deep within the roots of the Mother-Tree. She did this to prevent the "Tall Races" from ever finding the Boughs, wrapping the forest in a cloak of cold, protective mist to cool the sun-shard’s heat.

The Flight of the Departed

The Muridae believe that when a mouse dies, their spirit does not simply vanish. Instead, they tell the story of "The Flight of the Departed." The Great Owl is said to descend from the canopy at the moment of death, gently carrying the soul in her feathers to a hidden nest beyond the stars. This belief gives the Mousefolk great comfort, as it means they are never truly alone, even in the darkest nights.

The Warning of the Screech

Not all legends are peaceful. The "Warning of the Screech" tells of a time when the Muridae became greedy and began to over-harvest the sap of the Mother-Tree. In response, the Great Owl unleashed a terrifying screech that shattered the glass-woven huts of Ardor and called down a plague of gulls. This legend serves as a constant reminder to the Mousefolk to live in harmony with their environment.