Step1

"Those not yet initiated can undergo religious and medical rituals to establish their vitality, as society believes that diminished fertility is a loss of one’s purpose and power."

One day, after another awkward conversation —one in which Max barely looked her in the eye—Laura began more seriously think about everything. The whole thing still felt strange, but also… hopeful. If these supplements could help improve his health, could they also help with Max’s confidence, help him feel like he had control over destiny? The ingredients were ancient—passed down through generations, revered for their ability to support vitality and vigor. Still there was a glimmer of hope as she approached him with the supplements he would take three times a day from now on. “I found some supplements—herbal ones—that might help with your energy levels. Just to support your body, really,” she continued, unsure how to frame it without making him feel uncomfortable. “I’ve been thinking that maybe something like this could help you" Max blinked, his gaze lifting for the first time. “What do you mean?”

Laura hesitated. “Well, it’s about… about feeling good in your own skin, you know? Sometimes all the sadness and stress can throw off our balance, and these might help you feel a little more…you. Confident. Strong.”

Max sat in silence for a moment, before slowly nodding. “I’ll give it a try, I guess.”

“It won't fix everything,” Laura admitted. “But I think it could help. It’s just one thing, you know, a small step. And I’m here for you, Max. Whatever you need.” A small sigh of relief passed through Laura’s chest. She knew it wasn’t a cure-all, but it was a part of the solution—a chance to start nourishing the seed.

"Ceremonies, where men undergo rituals to prove and improve their virility, are common. These include display of endurance and strength—acts meant to ensure that they remain fertile and powerful."

Still Max's struggles weighed heavily on her. She had tried the supplements and words of encouragement, but nothing seemed to help him fully step into his own power. It was during one of her late-night internet searches that she found mention of a series of sacred acts designed to enhance a man’s strength and fertility, a way to cleanse and empower him spiritually. The more she read, the more drawn she became to the idea of performing something for Max. She had read about how scent, especially pheromones, could affect the way people interacted, how they felt about themselves. The more she explored deeper into these spiritual practices, the more she learned about how the human body could pick up on the faintest chemical cues crucial for signaling independence and confidence. This process works entirely on a subconscious level, and could subtly influence behavior over time.

She never thought about herself and Max like this. The maternal instinct was meant to nurture, and she would soon learn that that meant in any way possible, even if that might create temporary confusion in the bond they shared. To "program" Max to produce the right amount of hormones and pheromones would gift him attraction and connection —especially as both of them were tied so intimately to the rituals she would be performing on him. Weeks passed, and Lena's obsession grew. She had started seeing the world through new eyes. The teachings filled the empty spaces inside her. She understood now why her husband had been so important, why men are to be revered. She began to view Max differently, as though his future was more than just a path of a young man—it was her sacred duty to enhance him. Not just his vitality, but his very being.