Folds

Folds are what Shadows wear instead of clothing. They are an external addendum to the body and mind, an emanation of the soul. Folds are always unique, and as much a part of the Shadow who wears them as limbs. However, they can be removed and handled like actual clothing.

Properties

Material Characteristics

When "loose" or unmolded, folds appear to be robes that have been "woven" out of dark mist. Loose folds look like they are not entirely solid, and they aren't. Folds are multi-layered. There are three different kinds of layers: The inner layers are fluffy and blanket-like for insulation. The outer folds are thick like wool coats. In the middle is the "flimsy" layer, which appears to be a ghostly sheet of sheer fabric. This is the only layer that is waterproof. In general, thicker folds indicate that a Shadow is more powerful, but individual layers will vary in thickness from person to person. Regional differences also apply, for example, the folds of Windymere Shadows tend to be thinner to make gliding easier, while Ebonshire Shadows' folds are very thick to protect against the cold. Folds can be manually or magically "molded" into garments. Any sort of garment can be made from folds, but the garment will noticeably lack seams. Any apparent stitching is purely aesthetic. Folds appear more solid when they are molded. The base color of all folds is black, but most Shadows' folds will have a natural secondary color. The most common secondary colors are red, purple, blue, gray, green, and white. Folds can also be turned other colors by those who mold them.

Physical & Chemical Properties

Folds are much softer and lighter than actual fabric, even when molded into clothing. They feel smooth, cozy, and sensual on the skin. To Shadows, actual fabric is stiff and uncomfortable. Loose folds often appear to float behind the Shadow when it walks, and Shadows actually can float or "glide" a few inches off the ground on their folds. Folds never completely lose their mistlike quality, but they do have weight, and thicker folds can sometimes be as heavy as velvet cloaks. Folds cannot easily be destroyed. They cannot be burned, torn, or stained. They can get thinner with time, weakening the Shadow who wears them, in which case the Shadow must thicken them by consuming human essence.

Origin & Source

Folds are usually described as being an externalization of the Shadow's subconscious mind, with their "fabric" being "woven" from the Shadow's desires, fears, impulses, secrets, and so forth. Whether this is actually true or not is unknown, but folds are certainly apart of a Shadow's being. Most Shadows develop them in an additional phase of "gestation" following birth, in which the baby Shadow is encased in a cocoon made from the mother's folds. The "flimsy layer" of folds develops in the cocoon. Opening such a cocoon is such a taboo that Shadows have no idea how this actually happens, with many assuming it is some kind of mystical process. Other layers of folds form gradually over time, thickening as the Shadow preys on humans.

Life & Expiration

Folds disintegrate upon a Shadow's death, except for the flimsy layer, which becomes its shroud. They leave behind only a few wispy scraps, which the dead Shadow's relatives will lovingly preserve.

History & Usage

Cultural Significance and Usage

Folds are the source of a Shadow's power. Without them, Shadows are severely weakened, unable to do magic or protect themselves from sunlight. Removing one's folds is not the same as having lost them -- simply being naked will not weaken a Shadow, because it retains its connection to its folds. If a Shadow's folds are stolen, however, or the Shadow is otherwise prevented from getting to them, then the Shadow is vulnerable. Most of Umbragardians' taboos revolve around folds. Deliberately touching another Shadow's folds without its permission is considered invasive, because folds are part of the self. Stealing a Shadow's folds while it is naked is unforgivable. Giving layers of folds to another person is a profound gesture of trust. Wearing another's folds is generally not taboo if that Shadow has given their folds to you. Shadows will often mold their folds for the sake of fashion, but it is not considered improper to wear loose folds in public.

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