#angelo floros

[cryptids-of-spielzeit]

Purpureo Sub Caelo

Sermon 2: Dubium

(A Grinning Cat Story)

Why? That was the question that haunted his mind since that night. Why did he let him live? But why would his god want him dead? Cain killed his brother not because God told him to, but in envy of God's blessings to Abel. His god told him to kill the Dog, already beaten and broken by his hand. In a situation like his, a righteous and loving being, as he believed the Prototype to be, would spare him for overcoming such great lengths.

So why? What would the Dog do to warrant his death? If it was for his heresy, then maybe. The others went against him, and they met their end, so why not the Dog? But, the Dog...Dogday. Dogday cared about Theo. They were kindred spirits, yet different all the same. While the others played their roles to a tee, like they were born to be them, he and Dogday were aware. Aware of their circumstance, their pain. But while Theo went to the Prototype for solace, Dogday kept smiling. He was optimistic, but not because he had to be, but because he earnestly knew things would get better. Maybe that's why he left him to suffer, made him watch as everyone he loved die, left him to rot. Like Cain unto Abel. Why would the sun shine where light doesn't exist?

Yet, there was light.

And that oddly made Theo happy. He only really wanted freedom for all. But his god couldn't have heretics, he was told that they were as bad as the doctors, as bad as the company. If they didn't want to leave, not give his god a chance? Then why suffer in that material Hell any longer? Why? Why, that question, that word, it wouldn't get out. And it asked, more and more, again and again.

Why did you kill them?

Why did you follow it?

Why did you love it so?

Why do you feel guilt?

Why.

Do.

You.

Hate.

Yourself?

And suddenly, like a leaf in the wind, the word blew away. There was someone else there, in the distance. A man in green, a big hat on his head. He just stood there. He looked familiar.

Theo slowly walked toward the man. A brave one, this one, he didn't run, he didn't shoot. He didn't even scream. He just stood. They were face to face now.

"Theo. How's life been treating you?"

The guard. Now he knew, he survived! The one who "called in sick". Fate is a strange thing.

"....it has been fine, sir. Why are you here?"

"I could ask the same thing, stretch. I'm the ranger around here. And I've heard that a couple of people have been hurt in these woods. A few of them with claw marks. Care to explain?"

"...he told me that if anyone came near us, give them a warning-"

"A warning?! Some of those people are dead, Theodore! What have they done?!"

"I DON'T KNOW!....I-I don't know....I was just doing as he instructed..."

"And is he still out there?..."

"Yes..."

"That's all I needed to hear. Theo. I hope things will get better."

Angelo walked off, as casually as a morning stroll. Theo could only watch as he got smaller and smaller, eventually blending in with the green all around him.

What did they do? The only reason they killed some families that day was because they openly supported that godforsaken factory. They were blind to the horrors underneath their very feet, and they had to be punished for their blissful ignorance. These people in the woods looked to have no knowledge of the place, so why bother?

He walked back to his god's oak. There were more bodies now, all without their skin. All human. Some a lot shorter than the others.

"Why?..."

[tamafes]

Iannis Zannos

Iannis Zannos has a background in music composition, ethnomusicology and interactive performance. He is teaching audio and interactive media arts at the Department of Audiovisual Arts and at the postgraduate course in Arts and Technologies of Sound of the Music Department at the Ionian University, Corfu. This research is done in collaboration with Angelos Floros Assistant Professor of Media Art at the Department of Audiovisual Arts of the Ionian University and Marianna Kaza, graduate in sculpture from the Athens University of Fine Arts and currently researcher in public space performance as well as practicing Kung-Fu artist.

[athena-minervaa-blog]

FOR ALL THE MISFIT BABES: This post is currently where in line you fall with Athena, on who she likes ect. (It may vary)

One being who she adores most

1. Persephone Senecio

2. Geryon Gabris

3.  Angelos Elysian

4. Pheme Chaumont  

5. Haydees Amara

6. Jupiter Raptis

7. Dìana Minerva

8. Juneau Raptis

9.  Sito Senecio

10. Hecate Floros

11. Iris Ladas

12. Aviana Meharo

13. Esmerelda Invidia

14. Ebony Demos

15. Mania Lyssa Opheliac

16. Oizys Mallory

17. Verona Stolthed

18. Venus Raptıs

19. Ares Minerva

20. Pallous Ophidian

Who she considers an ally: 

Persephone Senecio

People she would seek an alliance with:

Pheme Chaumont

Haydees Amara

Angelos Elysian

Hecate Floros

People she strongly dislikes:

Pallous Ophidian

Ares Minerva

Verona Stolthed

Venus Raptıs

          ᴛʜᴇᴤᴇ ᴘᴇᴏᴘʟᴇ ʟɪᴤᴛᴇᴅ, ᴀᴛʜᴇɴᴀ ᴘʀᴇᴛᴛʏ ᴍᴜᴄʜ ʜᴀᴤ ʜᴇʀ ᴍɪɴᴅ ᴍᴀᴅᴇ ᴜᴘ ᴀʙᴏᴜᴛ.

Relationship developed so far:

1. Persephone

Athena adores Persephone. To Athena, Persephone is the personification of purity, of innocence. When she communicates with Percy she feels drawn to that innocent personality, and it brings out something in Athena that is often buried away. She has a childlike relationship with her; and wants to protect her as if she were part of the Minerva’s themselves.

2. Geryon

Athena is also drawn to Cerberus in a way. She has always been quite intrigued with the hell-hound, and always wished to learn more about him. He caught her eye rather early on, and Athena can’t help but act upon that. He is one of the only people that Athena would kind of flirt with. She believes, building a connection with Cerberus would be vital to her plan with Haydees, but she makes the mistake of starting to like the male.

3. Angelos

Athena feels as if she can relate to Angelos. She feels as if Angelos is often considered one of the more underrated gods; despite her obvious power. She feels as if the others misunderstand both equally. In a way, Angelos is like Athena’s support with some things.  Athena would often go to Angelos for advice or anything else. She considers Angelos one of her only actual friend. (even if its one sided) She is attached to her because she believes that they are similar in more ways than one.

4. Pheme

Like the others stated before, Athena grew rather close to Pheme. She is one of the only people that Athena really trust. But the attachment to Pheme was rather sudden. It was more so a first meet and they clicked type of deal. Pheme is the person Athena might try to find for comfort.

5. Haydees

Haydees spikes Athena’s attention immensely. She often doesn’t take the redhead’s threats or actions seriously. And despite the constant bickering, Athena finds an unusual spot of comfort near the redhead. She believes that the connection of hatred for her brother could be the thing to fuel them into becoming the best of friends. In a way, Athena looks to her in a sisterly way.

6. Zeus

Athena use to be rather close with Zeus in the older days. But as she got older she began to leer away from him and his actions, slowly starting to realize that he isn’t like he use to be. She still has that old bond between the two of them, but its quickly drifting apart.

7. Diana

The relationship between Artemis and Athena is difficult. She had always looked up to her as a role model. Artemis was a star in Athena’s eyes, but when she left to better herself, Athena was under the impression of abandonment; And she began to resent their previous relationship. (This relationship is rather long and will be discussed elsewhere.)

8. Juneau

Despite Hera’s constant welcoming arms and kind heart to Athena, the young goddess never had really trusted her. She has always been on the edge with the goddess, but did favor her presence more than many others. But Athena is rather leery and cautious when she is around.

9. Sito

Demeter is a rather unfamiliar goddess to Athena. She hadn’t ever had a reason to seek out the goddess, nor had she a reason to hate her. They rather just coexisted with one another. As the storyline between the two characters progress, so will their relationship.

10. Hecate

Athena doesn’t particularly like Hecate, nor does she trust her. But she has gone out of her way to find the woman for many reasons, one because having her as an alliance would be highly beneficial. So, Athena, pushing her sassy feelings aside for the brunette, tries her best to remain calm and level, and tries to gain trust and friendship through time. Athena finds Hecate rather self centered.

11. Iris

Athena knows of Iris, but hasn’t really communicated with her, so she doesn’t really know of her personal preference of the woman quite yet. But as the storyline continues, their relationship will develop and it will become clear of the relationship that will rest between the two of them.

12. Aviana

Athena knows of Aviana, but hasn’t really communicated with her, so she doesn’t really know of her personal preference of the woman quite yet. But as the storyline continues, their relationship will develop and it will become clear of the relationship that will rest between the two of them.

13. Esmerelda

Athena knows of Esmerelda, but hasn’t really communicated with her, so she doesn’t really know of her personal preference of the woman quite yet. But as the storyline continues, their relationship will develop and it will become clear of the relationship that will rest between the two of them.

14. Ebony

Athena knows of Ebony, but hasn’t really communicated with her, so she doesn’t really know of her personal preference of the woman quite yet. But as the storyline continues, their relationship will develop and it will become clear of the relationship that will rest between the two of them.  Athena has noticed the short temper that the young child carries; and isn’t too fond over it, but other than that there isn’t much information quite yet.

15. Mania

Athena doesn’t care too well for mania. She had tried to be nice considering many factors but Athena couldn’t quite seem to understand the mindset of the other. She finds the woman bizarre and slightly mad. And she easily grows irritated with many conversations and riddles that plays between the two.

16. Oizys

Athena does not like Oizys. She believes that she is also rather self centered, but she believes that she brings drama amongst the other gods. She thinks that Oizys is more trouble than she is good, and she can’t find a simple common ground to get along with her on.

17. Verona

The young child angers the goddess. As Athena had originally wanted nothing but merely help her out, but in return she had been insulted and belittled. The mouth of the child was the thing that had set off the goddess, and etched her name into a list of enemies. Athena was going to figure out a way to make the child pay for her words, but she had to plan just right.

18. Venus

Aphrodite is someone who greatly crawls under Athena’s skin. She thinks rather shallow of the blonde, and despises the fact that she came close to her older brother. She lashes out to the thought of Aphrodite becoming apart of their little family, and would wish nothing but the woman to disappear without a trace.

19. Ares

Ares use to hold poor little Athena’s heart, before he crushed it into thin ash. Ever since his action that broke the child, she had wanted nothing but harm amongst him. She no longer looked at him with loving eyes, rather cold dead orbs that wanted nothing but his lifeless body at her feet. Because of his actions, Athena despises him more than almost anyone, and nobody would ever change that. She wanted her brother dead and to pay for his actions.

20. Pallous

She used to be the closest thing that Athena had ever held. She took the title of Athena’s best friend before everything had happened. They had even shared a throne together, but after many events that took place, the love Athena shared for the woman had dissolved, and it turned into an emotion far worse than hate. Words could not describe how much Athena hated the woman. She breathed for the time to come when she ends her pitiful life. There isn’t anyone, nor any event that could EVER cause Athena to hate someone as much as she hates Pallous. Not even Ares comes close.

[electronicdragonsong]

Vintage Family Photos Painted As Large Scale Murals by Mohamed L’Ghacham

Separación De Poderes II, Ostend (Belgium) 2019

Morocco-born, Barcelona-based artist Mohamed L’Ghacham paints large figurative murals based on scenes from vintage family photos and everyday objects. Often choosing photographic “accidents” for their authenticity, the artist paints meals, table settings, toasts, and other communal rituals performed by normal people. When viewed at a wall-sized scale, the personal and seemingly unimportant moments gain new meaning and become more emotionally resonant for viewers despite never having met the families portrayed.

L’Ghacham’s use of muted color palettes connects the murals with their respective urban surroundings while also staying true to the vintage aesthetic of the source photography. Loose, layered brush strokes give the general shape of facial features and objects, but a step back from the image is necessary to appreciate the full snapshot. Head to the Mohamed L’Ghacham’s Vimeo page to see the artist in action, and follow his Instagram for more in-progress and completed mural photos.

Separación De Poderes II, Ostend (Belgium) 2019

Reunión de vecinos, Mataró (Spain) 2017

Le cadeau, Paris (France) 2017

¿Es papá y me lleva a casa? with Alba Trench, La Roca del Vallés (Spain) 2017

El Baile, Ragusa (Italy) 2018

Casa Paquita, Can Picafort (Spain), 2017

Aquí no et faltarà pa… with Ivan Floro, Granollers (Spain), 2018

Por Angelo!, Lioni (Italy), 2018

Cena para dos II with Alba Trench, Fuerteventura, Canary Islands (Spain) 2019

from Colossal http://bit.ly/2XpOUX8 via IFTTT

[vidovicart]

Vintage Family Photos Painted As Large Scale Murals by Mohamed L’Ghacham

Separación De Poderes II, Ostend (Belgium) 2019

Morocco-born, Barcelona-based artist Mohamed L’Ghacham paints large figurative murals based on scenes from vintage family photos and everyday objects. Often choosing photographic “accidents” for their authenticity, the artist paints meals, table settings, toasts, and other communal rituals performed by normal people. When viewed at a wall-sized scale, the personal and seemingly unimportant moments gain new meaning and become more emotionally resonant for viewers despite never having met the families portrayed.

L’Ghacham’s use of muted color palettes connects the murals with their respective urban surroundings while also staying true to the vintage aesthetic of the source photography. Loose, layered brush strokes give the general shape of facial features and objects, but a step back from the image is necessary to appreciate the full snapshot. Head to the Mohamed L’Ghacham’s Vimeo page to see the artist in action, and follow his Instagram for more in-progress and completed mural photos.

Separación De Poderes II, Ostend (Belgium) 2019

Reunión de vecinos, Mataró (Spain) 2017

Le cadeau, Paris (France) 2017

¿Es papá y me lleva a casa? with Alba Trench, La Roca del Vallés (Spain) 2017

El Baile, Ragusa (Italy) 2018

Casa Paquita, Can Picafort (Spain), 2017

Aquí no et faltarà pa… with Ivan Floro, Granollers (Spain), 2018

Por Angelo!, Lioni (Italy), 2018

Cena para dos II with Alba Trench, Fuerteventura, Canary Islands (Spain) 2019

[mykoncshq]

Leonie Hallet

Angelo Zabat

Gianna Floros

[cryptids-of-spielzeit]

The Package

Ages ago, the town of Spielzeit was just another vehicle to sell Playtime Co. products, but after a few shady deals and fights with the corporate heads, the town separated itself from the company, and through years of work, the town, and the people within, have no idea what Playtime even is. Except for one.

Angelo Floros was a security guard at Playtime for around a decade, being let go in 1994 due to a run in he had with one Leith Pierre. Let's just say they never got along. After being let go, he stumbled upon Spielzeit, where he was offered the position of park ranger. He took it almost immediately, familiarity with what lies in the job and all.

He was quite happy that everyone didn't know a single thing about that company. For that decade all he saw were those grinning faces, the cheery voices...and the secrets behind them that the company never dared to reveal to anyone. Yes, Angelo was happy. All he had to deal with here were the occaisional complaints about raccoons or, in the worst cases, illegal hunters. Until tonight.

It was the 10th of August, 1995. It wasn't a very busy day, made things simple for Angelo. Only thing he really had to do that day was patrol the picnic area, making sure no pests got in the way of families trying to enjoy their day. Angelo was in his cabin, his tiny television playing reruns of the Dick van Dyke show and the Three Stooges. This was the life, kicking back, watching some good TV while eating some of the best croissants the local bakery had to offer. But he heard...something at the door.

It wasn't a knock, more like a very light scrape or rubbing. Must be a raccoon or fox. He opened up to shoo whatever was outside, but he didn't find any sort of pest. Instead, there was a package. No address, no sign of who the sender could be, just a message, written crudely in red crayon.

"Keep her safe"

Angelo had a sinking feeling. He pretty much knew what was inside the package. But, the thing is, she was nice. One of the nicest he'd ever met, in fact. And if she's here, miles away from the factory, then what happened? He opened the package, and his suspicions were correct. It was a little red case, a glass window showcasing a doll with a blue dress, pale skin, and the reddest hair one could imagine.

He slowly opened the box. She opened her eyes, Angelo was unfazed.

"Hi, Poppy."

(Thanks to @screamsofanoutlawbrain for the idea!)

[cryptids-of-spielzeit]

The Opening

(The Package: Part 2)

"Hi Poppy."

Angelo greeted the doll like she was an old friend. By all accounts, they were, he'd known her since his second year at Playtime. Poppy Playtime, the world's first real, living doll, and one of the sweetest souls you could meet, was now outside of the factory, something that should NOT be possible. At all.

"Angelo! Oh, I knew he'd put me in the right hands!"

She smiled as big a smile as she could, jumping out of her box and finding a seat in Angelo's recliner.

"'He?' Who's 'he'?"

"A friend, he's the one who delivered the package."

Angelo just shrugged, before immediately going into interrogation mode.

"About that. Why are you here?"

As soon as he asked that question, Poppy's eyes widened with fear. She stood in silence, before going back to her case and pulling out a VHS tape. It was blank.

"...this is why."

She placed the tape inside of Angelo's player. It was security footage, from the factory. It was incredibly recent, dated only about 2 days beforehand. It was relatively normal, just another day of factory tours and routine checks.

"I don't see how this explains anythi-"

Angelo was cut off by the screams of terror coming from the television. In the blink of an eye, a normal day soon became a nightmare.

1 hour. For the next hour, Angelo saw his former coworkers turn into corpses. He saw the experiments rise up against those who created them. He saw things that no man should see. He witnessed the Hour of Joy.

"....where were you?"

Poppy was hesitant, she didn't want to answer. Not out of embarrassment, but because she didn't want to remember. But, she had to say, she needed to let him know.

"...before they attacked, they locked me up in my box. I could hear everything. Every scream, every cry for help. While some deserved what was coming to them, there were innocent people there. Families. Children. They killed them all."

She was telling the truth, he could tell. He could also tell that she was keeping away from something. He didn't even say a word, he just gave her a look. The kind of look that tells you "I know you're hiding something."

"....after all they did...they managed to escape."

"THEY WHAT?"

Angelo was furious. During his time there, he saw what many of the experiments were capable of. It was proven in the tape. And if they were out, then what's stopping them from continuing their killing spree?

"Yes, I know...I know this is bad news. But that's why I'm here. My friend unlocked my box after everything happened. I don't know how he figured out where you were...or where they were... but thank goodness he did. Thanks to him, I know where all the others are."

"Well?...where are they?"

"....in the woods."

Work follows people everywhere. Angelo had to get ready. A welcoming party was in order.

[cryptids-of-spielzeit]

CoS Fun Fact!

When Ranger Angelo isn't dealing with the cryptids or his job, he still works to help the people in town. Much like how he was Playtime Co's everyman, he's the town of Spielzeit's everyman, going from job to job. Though, you can most often find him at the local bakery, definitely not sneaking in a few bites here and there...

[cryptids-of-spielzeit]

Spielzeit Bestiary #7: The Spielzeit Fae

Tales of fairies have been passed down from generation, with various descriptions of what they actually are. Some stories depict them as small, flying humans with the ability to grant wishes, others say they are beings not to be messed with, to never tell your name to, lest they steal it.

But in the case of the town of Spielzeit, their fairies are somewhat mischievious. The Spielzeit Fae, sometimes referred to as "The Smiling Fairies" or "The Giggling Sprites" by locals, are a group of creatures that supposedly roam the woods near Spielzeit, particularly near common picnicing areas or fields.

The actual appearance of these creatures varies greatly from one another. According to locals, there are 8 variants, each with their own personalities. The few common traits in all 8 are their huge, believed to be never changing, smiles and their childlike laughter.

[DISCLAIMER: THESE DESCRIPTIONS ARE BASED ON PUBLIC SUPERSTITION AND RUMORS, THEY MAY OR MAY NOT BE TRUE]

1. Welpe: The Welpe Fae are described as being small, orange Cocker Spaniels, surprisingly similar to the appearance of another piece of Spielzeit folklore, the Sun Dog. Welpe Fae are commonly seen playing with the other fae, and in some cases coordinate pranks and heists for the other fae.

2. Jungtier: Jungtier Fae are described as small, red Bear cubs. Jungtier Fae are said to be incredibly clingy to other fae, and in one case, humans. They seem to show a form of affection through this clinginess.

3. Hase: Hase Fae are described as small, bright green bunnies. Hase Fae have been said to be incredibly energetic, and in some claimed "heist" encounters are the ones said to run off with whatever it is they stole.

4. Huhn: The Huhn Fae are said to be similar to baby chicks in appearance. Huhn Fae, according to locals, usually try to "one up" the other fae in their activities. What this entails is up for debate.

5. Ferkel: Ferkal Fae are said to heavily resemble a common piglet. Ferkel Fae, in most encounters, are usually the first seen, eating whatever they have stolen from the poor sap that crossed them.

6. Kalb: Kalb Fae are described as being small, sky blue elephant calfs. These fae are said to have a great memory. According to local baker Annie Puntz, she gave a Kalb a piece of cake, and the next month, it brought her back a flower.

7. Eins: Eins Fae are commonly described as being very small unicorn-like beings, with white fur and pale blue manes. Eins fae are theorized to be incredibly artistic, as a few locals described witnessing an Eins fairy using the cherries from a cherry tree in the town's Fruit Basket area to paint a rock.

8. Kätzchen: Kätzchen Fae, strangely, are said to highly resemble a tiny version of The Grinning Cat, down to the deep purple fur color and the big grin. Another interesting comparison to note is their tendency to "sleep". Encounters with Kätzchen fae usually start with the witness finding it asleep before waking it up, causing it to run away.

More often than not, groups of fae contain more than one variant, if not all 8. The first documented sighting of the Fae came from the late Dave Fitz, who described having a picnic with his grandchildren, when suddenly a Welpe and a Kätzchen appeared, trying to steal food. Mr. Fitz shooed them away, only realizing later that night that that was a mistake, as he found a huge group of the Fae ransacking his home.

Since then, it has become tradition to leave a piece of food out for the Fae during picnics, even if they never show.

Ranger Angelo Floros was asked about if he believed the Fae were real.

"I, personally, find these rumors to be a load of bologna. Fairies only exist in fairy tales. As for the supposed laughter, there are plenty of children here who love to spook their elders, and this idea of laughing fairies is perfect for them! I have no further comment."

Whether they exist or not, the Spielzeit Fae have become a big part of their folklore, even serving as one of the many creatures celebrated during their Summer Solstice festival, along with the Sun Dog.

All we ask you is...do you believe?

[cryptids-of-spielzeit]

Spielzeit Bestiary #8: The Sun Dog

Nature. Every tree, plant, and animal. It is all around us, and it is a very big part of the forest town Spielzeit's identity. The townsfolk and the surrounding forest have been in kahoots with one another ever since it split from the now defunct Playtime toy company. And now, their relationship with nature has seemingly grown stronger, due in part to a new creature said to roam the woods. They call it the Sun Dog.

Said to be the most benevolent of Spielzeit's ever growing roster of "cryptids", the Sun Dog is described as being a giant Cocker Spaniel with dark orange fur. It gets its name from what locals describe as a pendant, shaped like the sun, that it wears tightly around its neck.

It is said to be missing the lower half of its body, resulting in it crawling around wherever it goes. Those who have caught a glimpse of the Sun God report it being followed by a group of animals. The animals within said group vary, but the most common group is said to be that of a red fox, a whitetail deer, and an opossum.

Stories and sightings of the Sun Dog portray it as a protector of nature, caring for wounded and abandoned animals and helping any that cross its path. It is said to be incredibly docile, even helpful, towards humans, with one witness, Jeremy Hill, 23, describing as such.

"I was taking a walk through the woods. It was a nice day, nothing out of the ordinary. So, I'm walking, and I notice this tree, looked perfect for climbing. I get to the top of the thing, the view was really nice. Then, I heard something, sounded like, I don't know, giggling? Startled me so much that I fell off the branch, broke one of my legs. I screamed put for help for what felt like forever. Then I heard someone, they sounded like he was in his 50s, he told me not to worry, that'd he'd get me back home. That's when I saw him. We were at level with one another, he had a fox, deer, and possum at his side. Now, I've heard other people talk about this guy like he was the second coming, but actually being in his presence, I don't know, it made me feel safe. He had that look in his eyes, you know? I passed out afterwards, but when I woke up I was in town square. I won't forget that day."

The Sun Dog's contributions have not gone unnoticed. For instance, since his arrival, illegal hunting in the Spielzeit area has dropped tremendously, something that Ranger Angelo Floros has taken note of.

"Now, I'm not sure a giant, orange dog is the reason all of these hunters have went away, but regardless, this is great news. And if you want to thank this 'Sun Dog' for it, be my guest."

Many residents do, in fact, thank the Sun Dog, particularly those with some background of religion. They believe in the Sun Dog's existence so much that they have made it the central figure in their annual Summer Solstice festival. Here, there are Sun Dog themed games, food, and even stage performances about its contributions. Something notable is that during the festival, there is a chance that an animal will show up, requesting food, in which they always recieve it, yet they never immediately eat it. It is said that they bring it to the Sun Dog, who watches in the distance on the Licht hillside, where the sun shines brightest.

Is there a protector of nature living in the forests of Spielzeit? Or has Lady Luck just grazed the town with a great ecosystem? Do you believe?

(A major thank you to @abugcalledtoken for writing a greater part of the Sun Dog's lore!)

[cryptids-of-spielzeit]

Spielzeit Bestiary #3: The Dünnhalsig

There are a multitude of lakes and rivers near Spielzeit, with a few being home to a few supposed beasties. The "cursed" Lake Dünn, a popular fishing spot in spite of these superstitions, is now said to be the home of the long necked cryptid known as the Dünnhalsig.

Described by eyewitnesses as being a dinosaur-like being with either a pale red or pale yellow coloring, a few speculate that it is a living fossil, a Brontosaurus, to be specific. Though, no one really knows for sure, as these same witnesses have only seen the head and neck of the creature.

Another thing to note is that the creature is incredibly tiny, the length of the neck up to the tip of the head being only about 2-3 feet. It seems to be docile as well, only ever swimming up to the fishermen, then submerging. One eyewitness, Paul Hinkley, had this to say about his experience.

"I was minding my own business, it was rainy, perfect day to catch a biggun. So I sit myself at the dock, and I'm just waiting for a bite. As I'm sitting there, I hear a muffled sound. I didn't know what in the hey it was, until I looked down. There was this thing in the water, just sitting there, staring at me. I can never forget those eyes. Those incredibly human eyes. It was a good 5 minutes before the thing swam off. I left immediately."

Ranger Angelo Floros did a sweep of the lake, eventually stating this the next town meeting.

"In my team's search through the lake, we found no 'long necked thing'. We did, however, find a log. A log with little googly eyes on top. That is what you all saw. No further comment."

Regardless of what Ranger Floros said, most of the townsfolk are certain that there's something in the lake. And that something is the Dünnhalsig. Do you believe?

[cryptids-of-spielzeit]

Spielzeit Bestiary #5: The Marching Hare

In the town of Spielzeit, festivals and holidays are all the rage. When one comes along, this sleepy town wakes up! Even birthday parties are met with the same love and care as Christmas and Halloween. And it is during birthday parties that a certain creature is said to make an appearance.

The Marching Hare, sometimes known as the Birthday Bunny, is described as being a hare or rabbit the size of a human toddler, with pale blonde fur and pitch black eyes. It's strangest characteristic that many claim is that it carries two cymbals, banging them together as it marches, hence its name.

Now, as for its other name, most, if not all of its sightings have been at birthday parties. From there, every description of an encounter with the Marching Hare plays as follows. Partygoers see the Hare in the distance and it starts marching towards them. As it does, it makes strange noises, to the tune of "Happy Birthday". And once it makes it to the party, it leaves a gift, usually a pinecone or piece of fruit, and then marches away, leaving everyone involved confused.

Children, in particular, have taken a liking to the Hare, and have since made a little tradition for their birthday parties. They have a gift on hand for the Hare itself, in case it ever shows up.

Susan Reed, a mother of two, spoke of an encounter with the Hare that occured on her youngest's 5th birthday.

"We had the festivities set up, and everyone was having a great time. Charlotte was so excited, she really believed that this thing would show up and bring her a gift, it was so sweet. I helped her prepare her gift for the Hare, a little thank you card. I don't know if it was watching us the whole time or what, but as soon as we lit the candles on the cake, there it was, about 10 feet away from us. I couldn't believe my eyes, Charlotte was screaming from joy. It marched its way over and placed a pinecone in front of us. Charlotte just walked up to the thing like she knew it and handed it the card. I could have sworn I saw it shed a tear. And it just marched away, like nothing happened. Charlotte still has that pinecone. I've never seen my little girl so happy."

Ranger Angelo Floros has said this in regards to the existence of the Hare.

"What? You think I'd try and find some Holiday figure? Well I did, and you know? He's a really nice guy. Kids, if you're listening, please, have a great birthday, and if he does show up, just being happy for what you have is the greatest gift he could give you. Now who wants cake?"

So, is there a Marching Hare, celebrating birthdays in Spielzeit? Why not? We have the Easter Bunny, after all.

[cryptids-of-spielzeit]

Spielzeit Bestiary #6: The Grinning Cat

[DISCLAIMER: BEFORE READING ANY FURTHER, PLEASE NOTE THAT WHILE THE EXISTENCE OF THIS CRYPTID, LIKE OTHERS, IS DEBATABLE, THE EXPERIENCES AND PAIN DESCRIBED ARE REAL. DO NOT, UNDER ANY CIRCUMSTANCES, GO INTO THE SPIELZEIT WOODS AT NIGHT.]

In the year 1865, Lewis Carrol published Alice's Adventures in Wonderland. Amongst the kooky cast of characters in Wonderland, one has stood out as the definitive image of this weird dreamscape: The Cheshire Cat. With deep purple fur and a gigantic grin, this mischievous feline has captured (and boggled) the minds of many. But, in the sleepy town of Spielzeit, they have their own Cheshire Cat. But it isn't what many would hope it would be.

The Grinning Cat. One of, if not THE most elusive cryptid said to wander Spielzeit's woods. Its commonly described physical characteristics are eerily similar to that of the Cheshire Cat. It is big, about 12-15 feet in height, 6 feet in length, with deep purple fur, glowing white eyes, and the most distinct feature, a great, big smile.

Strangely, many other features of this being are greatly varied depending on who you ask. Some say it is skinny, down to the bone, some say it has quills, some say it has fangs, some don't. But regardless, one other thing is common, and that is its supposed ability to put people to sleep.

Every single encounter with the Grinning Cat, from those who live to tell the tale, have always ended with them suddenly passing out, and then waking up in town, deep scratches all over their bodies. In some cases, these wounds have led to hospitalization, and even death.

One witness, Mr. Ronald Gates, a member of the Spielzeit forest rangers, told his story.

"I was called in due a bear sighting. Now, it was close to our town, and while we love the animals here it's still a huge risk to have a bear near anyone's house. So I go out to see if there were any signs of a bear, or at the very least, cubs. That's when I saw them, these prints, way too big to be a bear's. I had no idea what they were, but they led somewhere, maybe this is what I was called to do. I follow the trail, and it just stops at this big tree, had these huge punctures on them. And then I see it. This big cat, just laying on the branches, staring at me. I will never forget its face. Those eyes, that smile. You know, that thing talks, right? At least it did to me. Had a voice like the devil. It jumps down, its face literally inches from mine. It only said one thing. 'Leave.' And before I know it, I'm back in my cabin with a big cut on my chest. I know what I saw, and I hope to god no one else will have to see that thing too."

Ranger Angelo Floros refused to give comment.

If you or a loved one lives in or is planning to visit Spielzeit, never go into the woods at night. You'll never know if you'll see a smiling face in the darkness.

[cryptids-of-spielzeit]

Spielzeit Bestiary #4: The Hybrids

Amongst the trees and bushes near and in the town of Spielzeit, one thing many will surely find are bugs. Love them or hate them, they are a part of Spielzeit's ecosystem. But, there are two bugs that might get under your skin.

The Hybrids, Käferhund and Käferkatze, are two cryptids said to frequent the so-called "Fruit Basket" area of Spielzeit. Those who come to the fruit trees to try and get their fill may encounter these two creepy crawlies.

Käferhund is claimed to be around 8-10 feet long, with fur a deep shade of blue, and the face of a common pug. The big distinction? According to eyewitnesses, it has the body of a centipede, and the proportionate speed to boot.

Käferkatze, on the otherhand, is said to be relatively small, about the size of a human infant. It is said to be a cat with yellow and black fur, small insectoid wings, and a long stinger, estimated to be about 2 feet long.

Both are claimed to be highly territorial about the fruit trees, and most of the time are seen together, working in tandem. One witness was local baker Annie Puntz, who said she saw both of the Hybrids feasting upon the cherry tree she had been growing for some time.

"It was time for them to be picked. I was going to make my special cherry danishes that everyone loves. I go to the Fruit Basket and there, in my tree, I see these two weird things moving around. I had a rake on me, and I was ready to get those things out, but then I got a closer look and I just stood there in shock. It was a dog and cat, but they were wrong! So incredibly wrong. And they were just chowing down on my cherries! They most likely heard my shriek, because they turned to look at me. As soon as they did, I hightailed it out of there! Never got those fresh cherries, had to settle for maraschinos."

Ranger Angelo Floros, upon recieving many complaints about pests in the Fruit Basket, made a search throughout the entire area.

"I frequent the Fruit Basket a lot, and this is the first time I've heard of any 'hybrids' munching on everyone's fruit. My team and I looked in every tree, some squirrels, sure, but no weird, bug things. But, in any case, please be prepared when going to the Fruit Basket, bring repellent, a rake, anything that could ward off unwanted animal life. But remember, don't harm any of them. Happy picking!"

Are there hybrid bug-mammals lurking in Spielzeit's fruit trees? Maybe. Do you believe?

[cryptids-of-spielzeit]

Spielzeit Bestiary #1: The Blue Man

This cryptid was one of the first to be spotted, at least somewhat, by the townsfolk. One Porshia Graham, then age 16, was taking a stroll through the woods near Spielzeit, when she noticed something peculiar. Little patches of soft, blue hair were strewn about the twigs and leaves, and they made a trail. Ms. Graham followed suit, eventually finding the most damning piece of evidence of the existence of the Spielzeit Blue Man: a red ribbon, covered with the patches of blue hair and what seemed to be blood.

A few months later, local daredevil Malcolm "Jolt" Holt was taking another trip to one of Spielzeit's local caves, trying to find a swimming hole. Mr. Holt, while in the cave, reported seeing more of the blue hairs, but the trail didn't lead to a ribbon this time. Mr. Holt claims he came face to face with the Blue Man.

"....it was about 9-10 feet tall, ape-like. It had piercing black eyes, and big, red lips with tons of sharp teeth. It had long, long arms and legs, and from how it walked, if you could even call it that, it was pretty much weightless. But that sound it made...God, I've done and heard some crazy things, but that shriek, it sounded like it was coming from the Reaper itself."

Afterwords, authorities in town inspected the cave in which Mr. Holt had his run in. Per the record of local Ranger Angelo Floro, "There were no patches of blue hair, nor were there any traces of blood. Rest assured, there is nothing strange in this cave, maybe Mr. Holt saw a weird rock formation. As for the sound, most likely a bat."

Locals still claim to see a tall, lanky, hairy, blue ape-like creature near the caves. Only question is...do you believe?