Cantata
Last updated May 22, 2026; approx. word count 230k
If you enjoy these IFs and would be interested in extra content, early access, or would like to support me, please subscribe to my Patreon at https://www.patreon.com/cw/FirFireweed. Or my Ko-Fi at https://ko-fi.com/firandfireweed
Synopsis
The story is set in Saleste, a vast empire with a long history of expansionism and colonization. Within the empire, technically citizens but not, are the Iredicci. The Iredicci can hear and feel the cordis, the harmonic pulse that connects all living things, and they connect to it through song. Iredicci have excellent hearing, but their defining feature is their voice—they have an echo to their voice, a resonance of two pitches at once.
A simple, nomadic people, the Iredicci were traditionally welcome in all corners of the Saleste Empire. But as steam technology progressed and the push for new resources grew, a prejudice developed against them. Over the years they stopped being welcome. Eventually, their travel was restricted, and the Iredicci were forced to live in settlement camps.
You are one of the Iredicci, born into such a camp. The elders sing songs of past travels and wonders you have never seen. Ever the optimists, the elders tell you to take heart. To be thankful you are among friends and family. That things can’t possibly get any worse.
Until they do.
Historians and politicians would call it The Proelium, a righteous battle against the traitorous Iredicci. What it really was, was the systematic genocide of your people. In one night, soldiers attacked every settlement camp across the empire. No one was spared—not the elders, not the children, not your mother.
It was mere whim that you snuck out of camp that evening, a mischievous escapade with a friend that ironically saved your life. You are taken in by your friend’s family and kept safe. But with survivors being hunted and killed, you must conceal your identity. So, you pretend to be deaf and mute.
Journey through the empire of Saleste and beyond. Grow from a child into an adult. Make friends, lovers, allies, and enemies. How will they react when your secret comes to light? Will you abandon your song in favor of machine? Join the rebel forces against the tyrant regis? Will you heal the wounds of the realm and restore balance? Or plunge it further into chaos?
Features
- Play as male, female or nonbinary—you’ll be able to choose your pronouns independent of your body type.
- Customize your character’s appearance and personality.
- Choose your attunement/proficiency with the cordis. This choice will heavily influence gameplay, affecting combat, weapon specialization, character interactions, and problem-solving situations. Choose wisely!
- Create 2 character names: your birth name and an alias. The Iredicci have culturally unique names, so your birth name will be limited to a preset selection. But you will go by an alias of your own choosing for most of the story.
- Develop your relationship with your adopted sibling. Are you friends or rivals?
- Romance! Or not. Romance 1 of 5 possible love interests, including a secret RO! Or choose the platonic route with the best of friends.
- Save a wild animal from a hunter’s trap and gain a steadfast companion. Because fur baby.
The MC
The game begins with you at age 7. When you are 12, your camp is slaughtered during The Proelium, and you are adopted into a friend’s family. With your voice and heightened hearing identifying you as Iredicci, you pretend to be deaf and mute in order to hide your heritage. The main game occurs 13 years after The Proelium, when you are 25.
Romance Options
Calliope Cato (she/her)
The inventor/artificer, Calliope can build and fix any machine. She is 2 years younger than you, petite, with gold eyes, rich brown skin and black hair in multiple braids. Her hair and clothes are adorned in rings, belts, and pins which double as tools. She carries a man’s cane sword with her everywhere, which she wields in a fight along with a hand crossbow. She’s curious, optimistic, excitable, and easily distracted by her many projects, but much of that is to keep her mind occupied. In quiet moments when she thinks no one is looking, you glimpse a profound sadness on her features.
Corinne Xenakis (she/her)
The leader of the rebels, Corinne works to overthrow the monarchy and aid the surviving Iredicci where possible. She is 6 years older than you. She is tall, with long, sandy brown hair usually worn in a messy bun or loosely braided bun, hazel eyes, and beige skin tanned by the sun. Quiet, serious and aloof, she feels a tremendous responsibility for those under her command. Corinne is a contradiction—she has the grace and manners of a noblewoman, yet fights with military precision that is uncommon for females of noble lineage. She is deadly when double wielding her flintlocks or axes. While not cold, she is not overly familiar or friendly with anyone, and very tight-lipped about her past. What does she guard so fiercely behind her armor?
Vicente Aloi (he/they)
The bastard prince, Vicente is calculating, ruthless and driven. They are the same age as you, and they, too, lost their mother the night of The Proelium, though under different circumstances. But while you were adopted into a loving family, he is the unwanted son of the regis, trained to be a lethal tool. He has long, midnight blue-black hair, icy blue eyes, and high defined cheekbones. The edges of a tattoo are barely visible on his neck above the collar of his doublet… wings, perhaps? It’s beautiful. He’s beautiful, though you’d never tell him for fear he’d take his rapier to your neck simply for looking. Will your plans align with his, or are you merely another pawn in his schemes?
Bayram Durmaz (he/him)
The son of the Aydem, the matriarchal leader of Tinebaille. Bayram is 4 years older than you. He has golden-honey skin, light brown eyes, and dark brown, tightly-curled hair that he usually wears back in a ponytail or half ponytail. He is tall and broad, muscular but not toned, with a rounded edge to his stomach and chest. A sprawling, colorful tattoo, the mosaic artwork of his people, covers the entirety of his back. He is boisterous, bold, and a shameless flirt. With his young sister bearing the weight of succession, he’s been free to explore the islands to his heart’s content, and is familiar with every bay, inlet, and harbor. He is equally skilled at wielding a spear, sailing a ship, and charming hearts.
About the Artist
All the illustrations on this page are commissioned works done by the extremely talented Isabela Zaneti, the same artist who did Viatica. I am so grateful to her for bringing my characters and world to life, and I encourage you to check out her website!
Content Warning
This story is intended for mature audiences. Possibly triggering topics present in the story include blood, violence, death (including child death), trauma & PTSD, mature language, sexual content (optional), classism, sexism, bigotry, and the persecution of a fictional people. Be advised, you are also pretending to have a disability for at least half the story.
The music is intentionally loud in certain parts of the story. This is to mimic the noise and emotions that the MC is experiencing, as sound is an integral feature of your race. It may be uncomfortable for some readers, so please read with caution.
Disclaimers
“Cantata” is a low fantasy IF loosely based on the Italian Renaissance period, with a steampunk edge. While I took inspiration from real world cultures and languages - most notably Italian, Latin, Greek, and Turkish - the world is still my own and not intended to be historically accurate.
Photo used in background by Olga Brajnovic on Unsplash
Development log
- Cantata Chapter 6 is Live!24 days ago
- Patreon, KoFi & Early Access54 days ago
- Chapter 6 Progress Update78 days ago
- Cantata Chapter 5 is Live!Feb 13, 2026
- One Year Anniversary + Early AccessJan 24, 2026
- Chapter 5 Progress UpdateDec 09, 2025
- New KoFi Member Subscription LaunchedNov 02, 2025
- Cantata Chapter 4 is Live!Oct 10, 2025
Comments
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Hi, I've been following the progress of this IF for a while now and I want to just say how truly beautiful this setting and storyline is! The characters are so well developed and seem so relatable, and even the background characters have such intricate upbringings that make them feel unique. Cantata is so well written and the hard work you put into it is evident. Take care of yourself and thank you for putting such an amazing IF out on this platform!❤️❤️❤️
Do you plan on selling the game when it's finished? Viatica included at some point?
Asking because you're one of the few out there that's actually finished a game and I want to support you for that. The games being good as well is a nice bonus.
Steam release potentially?
I'm aware theres patreon and the like but that always feels like throwing money in a hole to me, especially after the creator goes dark. I know your games are free at the moment but I like adding the ones I enjoy to my collection.
Thanks for the games~
Not the creator but IIRC, they (the creator) said they'll keep their games free
I appreciate the ask and that you’d like to support me. ❤️
Viatica was a labor of love and will always be free. I will monetize Cantata eventually, probably putting the final version on Steam. Though we’re still a couple years away from completion.
Honestly the best way to support me right now is Patreon or Kofi. If you don’t want to do a monthly subscription, Kofi offers the one-time tip option. ☺️
I replayed with different ROs, and my favourite so far? CORINNE!!!!
i can't wait for chapter seven! I'd guess the RO is the one who catches us, and I can't wait for it, especially to be in Corinne's arms 😍
Yay!! A Corinne fan! ❤️
The one who caught you is the RO you did the bath scene with. 🤭 If you chose the platonic route, there’ll be a choice in the beginning of chapter 7.
YIPPEEEEEEEEEE
i love corinne so much i took out my drawing tablet to try and draw her <33
This is incredible! The concept of song based music is one I love, and the characters are all so incredible and well-designed. I really appreciate having the option for an aromantic experience even in an IF setting, I feel like I'm still able to build a bond with characters. I really appreciate it <3
Thank you for the kind words, I’m glad you’re enjoying it! ❤️
I just finished chapter 6 andd holy shit, I'm so in love with this work that I created an account just to say so! I wish you the best of health and luck on your surgery! Can't wait to experience the oncoming chapters♡ Also being Turkish, it was a big whiplash to see a Turkish character in a foreign game haha but sorry Bayram, I'm only interested in Vicente
Thank you for taking the time to create an account and let me know! ☺️ I’m glad you liked the bits of Turkish, you have a lovely language!
is kip's corner a reference to God-Cursed?
YES IT IS !!! :D
I'm obsessed with this story. I've played it three times through just today, and it's so fucking beautiful. The world building, the CHARACTERS, and oh my god I admire how flawlessly you incorporate character choices into the writing. It really feels like every story I've played has been different. This is a stunning IF.
Thank you, that’s wonderful to hear!
I finished reading Cantata and absolutely fell in love with your writing style. The characters and narrative really stayed with me, and I'm so excited to the next chapters. I'm Brazilian, and while reading I kept thinking how much I'd love for more Portuguese-speaking players to experience it. If you'd ever be interested in a Brazilian Portuguese translation, I'd be happy to help.
Not at this time, but thank you for the offer. 😊
❤️❤️
I NEED MORE! PLEASE ! I SCREAMED AT THE END AND HOLY SPIRITS THE REFERENCE TO GOD-CURSED??? PEAK REFERENCE
🤭
Absolutely in love with this masterpiece. Read it all in two days. I just couldn't stop. So excited for the next chapter aaaaah
❤️
I just wanted to comment to say; when i was given the choice to wear a dress and then had the option to still identify masculine, i couldnt help but grin bcus i was so happy that its finally not a game where dress = girl and pants = boy in character customization
a big thanks as a transman who likes to still wear feminine things!! :3
Aww, you are most welcome! ❤️
spoilers for chapter 6!!!
i recently stumbled on cantata after rereading another IF (wayfarer) and tried this out on a whim and binged it all in 2 days! i'm genuinely so in love with this story and even more in love with your characters and worldbuilding!! you describe each character so thoughtfully and i'm on the edge of my seat every chapter! when i was done with the bathtub scene i literally rushed to my tablet to draw it out because i love the emotional depth and restraint you've given to corinne (my beloved). i understand you had surgery recently so i hope you are doing well and wishing you a speedy recovery! absolutely no rush to write, please get rest! <3
Oh wow, your art is gorgeous! Do you have tumblr? I’d love to share it there.
Thank you for giving my story a chance and for the kind words! ❤️
thank you!! my tumblr is @hanafua ! 🫶
I am overwhelmed by how amazing this story is and how well you use music to drive the mood with it. Amazing!
Thank you!
What does tawny skin look like?
I hope this doesn't come across as mean. I'm bad with colors.
Same I had to google it (my native language isn't English)
I still don't know. I'm getting different results.
This story is simply BREATH TAKING. I'm on CH. 5 right now and my GOD, I simply can't get enough. Thank you so much for this terrific tale that tells of it's twists and turns. I've loved stepping into the shoes of my little Astrum and you've inspired me so much as a DM and Writer!
Also...
AHHHHHH CALLIOPE MY BELOVED, I LOVE HER SO MUCH SHE'S SO CUUUUUUUUTE!!!!!!!
Thank you for the wonderful compliment! To inspire another is truly the best I could achieve. 😁 Also, yay to fellow DnD fan! 👊
Ofc!! Hope your recovery is going well, and I simply can't wait for the next chapter! Rest well!!!
It’s going well other than my inability to type, hahaha! I just read my original reply. That’s what replying while on meds gets you. 🥴
LOL, all good. Getting started on Viatica right now. Got some high hopes, and so far they're being exceeded.
This was amazing and I plan to replay this half a million times. Words can not describe how in love I am with this story
Thank you! 💕
I can't wait for the next chapter!
Finally all caught up and I cannot count the number of times this story has made me cry but it's all so worth it. I cannot say enough positive things about this story and your writin, and I am excited for more!
Thank you, Fab! 🫶🏻
Absolutely monumental. Binged this story during a couple late nights, and I'm so impressed with the writing and worldbuilding. Characters are full of life and everything's so descriptive. I read your update--know your health is much more important, but any wait will definitely be worth it! One of my fav fantasy narratives to date, and I will be exploring Viatica in the meantime 🫶
Thank you so much! I hope you enjoy Viatica too! 😁
I just finished chapter 6, and I have to say, this was absolute peak. It was incredible. I felt so excited the entire time I was reading it. I'm already looking forward to the next chapter 😭😭🙏
Thank you!
i cant pick between tellus and bayram its hurting my heart so much......
BTW this is fucking amazing im so invested in the story
Vicente is going to have some big feelings about the whole pretending to be deaf thing, isn't he? I fear what the future holds...
hello dear dev i am in love with this game and in love with you (/p ofc) this is so well thought out and engaging!! usually i know who im romancing from the start in games like these, but im STILL having genuine doubts about who to pursue for the lock in! all the characters are so well rounded and beautiful, plus the cliffhanger is crazy i love fainting in the arms of my friends. thank you!!!!
You are most welcome! Thank you for this lovely comment!
I'm not one to comment on games since english is not my 1st language, but I just had to compliment this work, bloody hell!! Loved evey minute of it!!
I just finished chapter 6 playing a fire attuned, and the effort put in the writing is amazing!! Very excited for the next update and I'm definetly checking Viatica while waiting for it!! Good luck on your surgery and have a nice recovery too <3
Thank you for taking the time to write this kind comment, I appreciate it! I hope you enjoy Viatica, too!
I see that Kip and Dov reference you ain't slick. But holy Jesus that cliffhanger Fir what are you doing to me-
😏
Thank you for releasing chapter 6!!! I hope everything goes well for you in your surgery.
Now, WHAT DO YOU MEAN THAT SCENE WITH TELLUS IS NOT A LOCK IN???!!! IN WHAT WORLD???? TELLUS MY BELOVEEED NEXT CHAPTER IM COMING FOR YOU!!
I knew having earth affinity was going to get a lot cooler!!! Man than ending is bomb! I NEED THE NEXT CHAPTER RAAAAAGHHH 😭
You’re welcome! Lol, it wasn’t the lock in but it WAS a significant choice. It’ll affect certain things next chapter. Your choices matter. 😉
LOVE LOVE LOVE THE CH.6 UPDATE OMIGODS! Vicente still has me by the throat of course (but tell me something I didn't expect to happen). And that CLIFFHANGER?! YEEEESSSS I LIVE FOR IT! You have left me frothing at the mouth for the next chapter. I need to know how the others react to what happened!!!
Also, I absolutely adored the cameo of God-Cursed's Kip and Dov <3 I could definitely picture them running an inn haha
Thank you so much!
as always, looove the music!!
I'm not gonna lie, as much as I adore the lantern shield, I lowkey used to think the Earth attunement was kind of mid compared to Air and Fire. Not anymore lmao
feeling like Magneto up in here
Magneto 🤣
I’ve heard similar thoughts about the water attunement. I’m glad to finally have the opportunity to showcase the attunements and all that they’re capable of! 💪🏻
Just read the entire 6 chapters in one sitting! Amazing writing and tension, I'm so hyped for the next chapter!!
Thank you!
Omg this is the best and amazing thing I've ever witnessed and read! Seriously I got hooked immediately from the start and I couldn't keep my eyes and mind off it! I started it two days ago and just finished it just now! The cliffhanger?? My god, I can't leave another day without knowing whats gonna happen next gaaahhhh >:[
I also LOVEEEEEEE the characters so so so much <3 I also felt so close and connected with the Sideris family. Everything in this IFs is so well written and is so amazing I'm so obsessed. I'm so glad I had found this :))
I truly love this so dearly and it's my favorite! I just can't wait for more! :3
(Also I can't choose between Tellus and Bayram argggg! (//>~<//) But honestly if I had to truly choose who to romance in the end or who I'm likely to, I would choose Bayram. He had certainly charmed my heart and I can't stop thinking about him. That man seriously have me in a choke hold urgg (//>_<//))
Aww, thank you so much for your kind words! I’m glad you found it and gave it a chance! ☺️
i just played the whole thing in one go today. i love the writing. the music adds so much to the experience too. amazing work!!
Thank you!
I noticed on a new playthrough that Eva says “That’s what sisters do" to a non-binary mc in the nightmare scene.
Also this chapter was awesome!
Eva is your sister. She’s talking about herself in that line.
that makes so much more sense lmao. Thank you!
👍🏻
i love this if with all my heart. I literally got goosebumps at the end of chapter 6 while listening to 'The Seed' by Aurora
plsplsplsplspls never stop writing, this is absolutely amazing <<3333
Thank you!
Spoilers chapter 6!
OMG THAT CLIFFHANGER IS INCREDIBLE! I CAN'T WAIT TO SEE HOW STRONG OUR ATTUNEMENT IS NOW!!!
NEW CHAPTER NEW CHAPTER I STOPPED MY FINAL YEAR PROJECT TO PLAY THIS
oh we're so back. fir and fireweed i could kiss you for this chapter i freaking cried when mc finally used their voice 😭😭😭 i was so emotional you don't understand holy shit
but on a serious note, i freaking love your work and i will sing all your praises if it means you keep blessing us with these wonderful chapters !!!!! its so crazy how both viatica and now cantata have seen me through like...my college life holy shit....like i'm graduating in a few months....which is so crazy to me and also a testament to how your writing holds a very special and dear place in my heart !!!! 🫶🫶
please never stop writing i hope you can feel the love i'm throwing at you through the screen like a brick xoxo
Welcome back, Angel! That’s a lot of love, lol. 🫶🏻 Oh wow, has it really been that long?? Thank you for following since the beginning, and congratulations on your upcoming graduation! 🥳
Oh my freaking god. Holy new chapter. That was sososo good AH. I physically cannot relax bc of the way the chapter ended. I'm so excited for the next update.
I replayed the entire game again overnight so I could make sure I wouldn't miss anything in chapter sixuh. THIS IS SO PEAK. STAY HYDRATED AND NO RUSH.
Lol, thank you very much!
DOV AND KIP I SEE YOU AUTHOR
I AUDIBLY GASPED BRO
UNBELIEVABLY SLICK
I JUST GOT TO THAT PART TOO!
I'm so happy to see little references and details like that, especially for Dov and Kip, they deserve all the best ❤️
Oh man, I haven't been this engrossed in something in a long time. I completely forgot this was a work in progress and was like what! It's over! lmao. Well naturally, I must now replay a dozen more times with different choices. I regret I didn't listen with music as I just get annoyed wearing headphones but I will definitely try next time :)))) Looking forward to what comes next!!!
Thank you!
SO giddy to see dov and kip in here omg omg i havent even finished the new chapter omg dov and kip
that cliffhanger is incredibly placed and im so excited for when the next chapter is released! take your time with recovery and your family, perfection isnt rushed!!
Thank you, my friend! 🫶🏻
Hello , on the December 2025 your interactive fiction was the first one i read when I discovered it and hyperfixated on it and I finished your other work and I wanted you to know take all the time you to recover because your writing would be well worth the wait
Ps . Spoiler
Tellus had me clenching my chest and Bayram got me kicking my feet . I romance them in different playthroughs cause I found out my flirting had consequences..who knew
Thank you so much!