Mato

Writing is a relatively new invention on Mycorzha, and while pictoglyphs are in common usage, and letters and messages are beginning to flow across the Isles, tales and histories and wisdom have been passed down by word of mouth for generations. This vast oral history is kept by many across the land, but there are those few who are noted as particular keepers of these tales, by dint of passion, age, or simply having an excellent memory. Mato, known as the Lorekeeper by many of the bands that range through central Mycorzha, combines all of these traits. Possessed of a photographic memory and a passionate dedication to the oral traditions of his home, this jackalope knows more tales than most have forgotten.

From his youth, Mato consumed stories with an eagerness that surprised and nigh-dismayed many of his friends. If there were visitors who might know a new snippet of information, or a different telling of an old story, Mato would happily toss plans aside to seek them out. This hurt some feelings, although of course Mato was just as happy to sit and listen to how anyone was feeling. After all, everything was a story, wasn't it? The openness of his ears soothed most arguments, and indeed encouraged many to seek the young jackalope out to talk to, to relate what was going on in their lives and feel heard. Mato would nod and shake their head in turn, never in boredom, but always truthfully, totally present. And his near perfect memory meant that he could find connections in what creatures said, relate it to the words of others, and offer well-targeted insights.

Well, they started off as well-targeted, but Mato found that most preferred he come at his advice indirectly. Mato was perfectly happy to couch his perspective in stories, and so his reputation swiftly grew throughout the tribes of the Mycorzhan plains. He was soon brought into the confidence of several elders, and council meetings found him an invaluable aid. Mato was content to listen, and his well of stories grew even larger.

After many seasons, none were surprised when Mato's empathy and desire to be there for others brought him into fatherhood. Discovering a simple joy in supporting cubs and hatchlings, Mato delighted even more in their wild imagination and make-believe. One child became two, became a horde, not all his by blood, but each cherished deeply, called by name and given time in their turn. Now older, the jackalope delights in grand-kin just as much as any of his fosterlings, and has plenty of hands to help look after them!