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Hello listeners, be advised that this show is an immersive audio experience. It may seem like sounds are coming from the sides or behind you.

Listener discretion is advised, as this content is intended for adult audiences only. For more

details, see the episode description. Kukud presents Birds of Empire Season 2, created by Jason

Lou. In the Crow Age, the bone-breaking war created by Jason Liu.

In the Crow Age, the bone-breaking warriors of the people of the rock would cover their faces in blood and rust before battle. This was when the priest led their charges, swung blades,

and made packs with the many heavens.

When the gods of old moved within their spines and fingers and guided their axes to the necks

and spines of their enemies, feared and ferocious.

The rust was believed to be the blood of iron and therefore a source of great

power. The Rams believed that to consume it and to mark their bodies with it would turn their

skin to harden armor, their hearts to stone. Through the song age, the green age, their machines grew and their gods dwindled,

retreating to the caves and chests of the few.

And then there was Barlin, child of unknowing, seeker of a way to the light.

It's rare to recall the first step in a journey, to really know that it's begun as to

already be in remembrance. The boy with no arms walked upright into the dawn age. Others later would guess that which were his first steps,

but many more would marvel at his last.

Why won't you believe me, Aaron? You're my husband.

I believe what the surgeon say.

What? That I'm mad, that these voices and visions are the work of a cracked mind?

You shouldn't have heard that.

...