#northern brown bear

[beardedmrbean]

POV, you are a bee in a bee hive

[johnnyslittleanimalblog]

Brown Bear Cubs by tpl62 Via Flickr: Brown Bear Cubs Martinselkosen Finland

[atopvisenyashill]

i was gonna post jeor mormont but idk i'm nervous for Northern Fancast Posting because I would say My Vision Of Northern Coloring is like, idk, it makes sense to me? idk about everyone else.

[multishipper-baby]

While writing the post about the Goldami kids, I realized I didn't put what each OCs animal was in my OC post... Oops my bad.

[trainer-sean]

Serval on her way to save her girl

Brown Bear: Why did Serval just sprint through here screaming Kaban and looking like the world was about to end?

Professor: We told her how to control humans from this thin book.

Brown Bear: Still doesn’t explain the hysteria and tears.

Assistant: Grey Wolf wants test it with Kaban.

[typhlonectes]

Sinobdella longitubulus, a new species of spiny eel (Pisces, Mastacembelidae) from the Zhu-Jiang Basin, with a note on the type locality of S. sinensis 

Peng Shan, Guangyu Li, E Zhang

Abstract

Background

The spiny eel genus Sinobdella belongs to the family Mastacembelidae of the order Synbranchiformes. Kottelat and Lim (1994) utilised Rhynchobdella sinensis as the type species to propose the genus. Currently, it contains a single species widespread in eastern and southern China and northern Vietnam.

New information

Sinobdella longitubulus, a new species of spiny eel, is here described from the Xi-Jiang of the Zhu-Jiang Basin in Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, southern China. It differs from the single congeneric species S. sinensis in having a more or less white-brown reticulated pattern on the flank, two tubular anterior nostrils longer than or equal to the rostral appendage, an anal fin heavily mottled with dark brown markings and white spots and bearing a narrow white distal margin; shorter pre-anal length; and fewer abdominal vertebrae. The validity of this new species is corroborated by its monophyly recovered in a COI gene-based phylogenetic analysis and its significant sequence divergence with S. sinensis. A note on the type locality of S. sinensis is also given; its type specimen is possibly from mountain streams of Jiangxi Province, in the lower Chang-Jiang Basin.

Read the paper here: Sinobdella longitubulus, a new species of spiny eel (Pisces, Mastacembelidae) from the Zhu-Jiang Basin, with a note on the type locality of S. sinensis (Bleeker, 1870) (pensoft.net)

[roriaa]

When Sun and Moon meet - S1

Zuko x Fem!WaterBender!Reader Enemies to Lovers

As one of the Princesses of the Northern Water tribe, you were blessed with a gift by the moon. However you were permitted to be allowed to use the gift at all costs. From many hidden waterbending usages, the aftermath of the avatar visiting the Northern Tribe had led to your beginning journey, hiding yourself as a water bender as a princess from the Northern water tribe

Warnings: None

Masterlist

҉ * ‧͙ ⋆ ⁺ ༓ ☾ Prologue

“We announce the birth of a healthy girl…Princess Y/N!” Chief Arnook announced as the crowd cheered for their new princes alongside Yue. What the crowd didn't know was the difficulties of even keeping her a healthy princess. Once the baby was born, she couldn't stop wailing and crying. It was like every bone of her body was in pain. All the medical help didn't do anything, they didnt know why the Chief’s daughter was in so much pain. Yagoda suggests going to the Spirit Oasis, it's their only chance. Chief Arnook sweats as well as his wife, as if they're bound to be unlucky for every life they give. The royal parents of this princess used the same technique as they did with their previous daughter. Dipping her in the Spirit Oasis while praying for her life to the moon spirit, the color of the girl's hair turned from brown to a graceful white. Silent cheers and cries as they held their newest child close to them, happy the moon spirit gave another one of their daughters a second chance.

“Stop touching the edge of your coat” My mother instructed as she pulled my hand from the cuffs. I whined but one stern look from my mother stopped me. I huffed as I stood up straight leaning more so to my sister, Yue who took my hand graciously. In books and stories becoming a princess sounds like a dream. You have money, attention and you could do whatever you want. Everything is accurate except the last one, I couldn't do everything I wanted. I had to be restrained to the guards and my parents eye, even Yue doesnt get this treatment as much as I do. However I forgot to mention how I even got into strict confinement in the first place. “What are you doing?” My father grabbed my hand making the water orb splash at both of our feet. “She's a water bender…” My mom whispered as my dad's eyes widened. “Y/N…” He spoke softly as he held both of my shoulders in a kindly manner. “Do not water bend, it's not allowed for people like you”. I furrowed my eyebrows as I looked at him confused. He sighed as he took my hand. “Y/N, where we live only men are allowed to use waterbending, that's their job…to protect” My father shows me to the boys training their bending. “Especially people like you and your sister, you're both very important to this nation”. I didn't listen, it's not like I didn't understand what he was saying, I just didnt understand why it had to be like this. I zoned off as I saw the male benders. Envying that they can use their gift while I couldn't use mine. I snapped out of my zoned out space with a little pinch given by my sister. I flinched lightly as she slightly giggled earning a hush from our mother. I don't understand us needing to come to these royalty meetings, neither Yue and I are close to 16. Well she is closer to 16 by what? 6 years? That's still a whole 6 years till 16! I'm only younger than Yue by a year, however people treat me like a polar bear dog, cooing at me constantly for doing the littlest task while Yue gets treated so much more maturely. Some might say I have it easier but honestly I just feel dumb. Once the meeting ended we respectfully bowed and got up following our father. I held back my yawn as I saw the now night sky, looking how beautiful the moon is. ҉ ☾ I woke up in the middle of the night, groaning as I looked at the moon. I brush through my tangled hair with my hand while walking outside near the river. Is anyone there? I internally thought as I scavenged the area to see if there were any witnesses. I double checked and took a deep breath. Opening my eyes I hold the water orb, feeling the calming air around me. “You're going to get caught if you keep doing that”. I yelped and dropped my water orb. I turn around immediately with widened eyes meeting Yue. “Oh Yue” I sigh in relief as she glared at me. “You could've gotten caught by the guards and gotten in more trouble then you already have”. I sigh in understanding but also in annoyance. This isn't the first time I have snuck out to try out waterbending. Some days I have been caught but some days I haven't. “I'm going back to bed” I sigh with my head down “Are you?” “Yes, I am” Yue giggled as she patted me on the back. “I believe you can use it one day Y/N, I really you” She whispered sweetly as I nodded. “Thank you”

Next ->

a/n: This is my first fic im starting and im getting brainrott from avatar :) im still learning how to write so if there is any suggestions please share. Im like half asleep while writing this authors note so I know it wont make any sense when I wake up lmao Also feel free to tell me if you want to be added in the taglist!

---

[herpsandbirds]

do you have any cool gart (er snake) pictures or facts to share?

GARTER SNAKES:

Puget Sound Garter Snakes (Thamnophis sirtalis pickeringii), getting cozy, family Colubridae, Vancouver Island, BC, Canada

This is a subspecies of the Common Garter Snake.

photograph by Patrick Lamontagne

Garter Snakes are in the family Colubridae, most of which are non-venomous, but many "non-venomous" snakes are actually a little venomous... they contain venom components in their saliva, which enter the animal through the bite wound (garters and other closely related snakes don't have fangs). The venom in their saliva is usually to aid in subduing (paralyzing usually) cold blooded prey. * It might work to slow down an earthworm so it can be swallowed, but for you it may have no effect or cause mild pain, redness and swelling.

Eastern Garter Snake (Thamnophis s. sirtalis), family Colubridae, Ohio, USA

photograph by Nick Scobel http://herpingmichigan.blogspot.com/

Like many semi-aquatic snakes, garter snakes are live bearing. In North America, this goes for the closely related non-venomous water snakes in the genus Nerodia, as well.

Garters are in the subfamily Natricinae, along with water snakes, mud snakes, earth snakes, dekay's brown snake, & crayfish snakes.

California Red-sided Garter Snake (Thamnophis sirtalis infernalis), family Colubridae, northern California, USA

Photograph by Jaden Clark 

Some of the garters on the west coast are in an evolutionary battle of predation with poisonous newts in the genus Taricha. These newts are some of the most toxic creatures on Earth. Over eons/millenia, the newts have become more toxic to avoid predation by snakes and other animals, and the garter snakes have become more toxin resistant to feed on newts.

West Coast species, like the California Red-sided Garter Snake, are not consistently poisonous themselves, but they do temporarily harbor toxins from newts in their tissues, making them temporarily toxic! * The toxins harbored in their tissues can kill predators that eat them: killing predatory medium- - large mammals up to 2 weeks after the snake feeds on a newt, and killing a predatory bird up to a month after.

California Red-sided Garter Snake (Thamnophis sirtalis infernalis) feeding ona toxic Rough-skinned Newt (Taricha granulosa) , Marin Count, CA, USA

Photograph by Anton Sorokin

[lucky-stick]

🏞️🐾🦴wolf study 🪵🌲🥩

hello creechers im a wolf otherlink (or idk yet rlly) so i've compiled like everything about wolves and i might add to it sometimes but heres the contents:

basic (size, diet, status ect)

species and subspecies

pack anatomy

communication

-vocal, body, facial, scent,

-submissive behaviour

-playing

fandom facts

basic information 🥩

scientific name: canis lupus

lifespan: 13 years (wild)

diet: carnivorous -

size: 80-85cm 30-80kg

conservation status: least concern

species and subspecies 🍖

its a big debate on how many species of wolf there are in the wolf but the 2 main ones are the grey and red wolf then all the subspecies evolved in different way based on their habitat but they all descended from grey and red wolves

subspecies: (38) WIP 🚧

arctic: usually all white with black nose and ears

Eurasian: a brown-red colour

eastern: a darker coloured wolf

northwestern: a grey wolf with more black

northern rocky mountains: more pale fur

Indian: brown-grey

Mexican: browny-black

great plains: light grey

British Columbia: all black

Vancouver sea: light grey on top black on the side

Italian: dark brown

Arabian: dark brown and black

canis lupus dingo: light brown

Iberian: darker not a lot of white

interior alaskan: mostly black with some white

alexander archipelago: all black

tundra: mostly white with a bit of black on top

texas: coyote colours

alaskan tundra: all white

Manitoba: dark grey

labrador: dark grey to mostly white

baffin island: mostly white

Greenland: all white

Mackenzie: white-yellowish

mongolian: light brown light grey

steppe: coyote colours

new guinea singing dog: red-brown

Egyptian: jackal colours (blueish)

tibetan: light brown to whiter

Austro-Hungarian: very dark grey

extinct subspecies

Hokkaido: all grey

Japanese: they are patterned

mogollon mountain:

Florida black: all black

kenai peninsula: dark grey

Newfoundland:

cascade mountain:

gregorys:

sicilian:

canis lupus youngi:

bernards:

pack anatomy 🌲

packs can consist of 6-20 members though the average is thought to be around 10

there is usually 2 main wolves, sometimes known as alphas but that terms outdated, these are usually the main parents and give birth to most of the pack

a litter usually consists of 4-6 pups and they are all born blind and vulnerable and they usually stay in the den and with their mother for about 2 years

older siblings have been known to look after younger siblings if needed

the packs social bond is very strong and have fierce devotion to their pack. they have been known to mourn loss, which is what a lone howl usually is, they have also been seen to sacrifice themselves for their pack

(WIP) 🚧

communication 🦴

vocalisation:

every pack as its own unique howl to distinguish different packs and if they are on someone else's territory

a defensive howl is to keep the pack together and keep predators out of their territory

a social howl is to locate one another

barking, though rare, is used as a warning for example a mother wolf may bark of she senses danger around her pups

whimpering and whining can indicate a "i give up/in"

growling is also used as a warning but for more dominance like protecting their territory

body language and posture:

a wolf interacting with it pack can say lots about the status of the wolf and the pack

less dominant wolves usually crouch to make themselves look more smaller

they also lick the muzzles of more dominant wolves

slinking is another "i give in" and is a more submissive behaviour and is show in fights and disagreements with the pack

dominant wolves usually have a more confident upright posture to show said dominance

they also rest their head on submissive wolves neck or back

facial expressions:

when angry their ears stick upright and they bear their teeth for example when two wolves have a disagreement they will show this and growl

when suspicious they squint their eyes and put their ears back

when in fear they flatten their ears

when they want to play they display the play bow and dance around

as a warning they will curl the end of their lips displaying a bit of teeth

when relaxed their eyes are just on their sides

tail position:

tail tucking is a sign of being in fear and submission

a more dominant tail position is sticking it out and slightly upward

a neutral tail position is wagging

scent marking

they mark their territory with pheromones

these pheromones come out from glands on the toes, tail, eyes, skin and genitalia

they mark territory with urine and scat (i will not be doing this)

they have also been known to mark food

submission:

there are 2 types of submission: active and passive

active submission: is where a wolf shows signs of inferiority like tail tucking, muzzle licking and crouching (pups do this with adults)

passive submission: passive submissions is when a wolf lays on its back or side displaying the stomach or chest which is a vulnerable part of the body because it contains vital organs it is show to more dominant wolves when they get into a disagreement the less dominant one usually gives up and shows passive submission to show the others authority

playing:

they are known to get zoomies like how domestic dogs do

some games they play include: chase, tug of war or jaw sparring

jaw sparring is when two wolves will rear up on their hind legs and use their front paws and jaws

a range of vocals come out when playing this this fortifies bonds and status and shows physical skills

a more casual version of this is then laying down

facts + misconceptions 🌕

they have 42 teeth

they have 4 toes with claws and run on their toes not their pads

despite running on their toes they can run at 16-38 miles per hour

they can swim up to 8 miles

they have 200 million scent cells

they can eat 20 pounds of meat in one meal

they don't howl at the moon that was a myth people thought because of werewolves their howls are actually just more clear at night because there is usually less wind and other sound

alpha, beta, omega ect roles don't actually exist there is just more dominant wolves and less dominant wolves the alpha is usually just the parent but there is a social hierarchy in packs

wolves don't hibernate at all so they can be seen all year around

the biggest pack ever consisted of 400 wolves which was found in the outskirts of the woods in russia (i made a post abt then when i got 400 followers)

wolves have their own unique personality

northern rocky mountain wolves are one of the biggest subspecies

this is my pack so far :3 ✨ idk why im adding this i rlly like wolps at the minute and im going to get more ^^

[foxless]

i feel such a strong connection to other therians who share my biome(s)

shoutout to:

squirrels & chipmunks

wolves, coyotes, & other foxes

salmon, trout, cod, & other northern fish

brown, black, & polar bears

shrews, rabbits, mice, bats, voles, moles, ferrets, stoats, & otters

bees, spiders, moths, beetles, worms, & butterflies

owls, robins, crows, ravens, bluejays, chickadees, & chickens

horses, caribou, deer, & moose

& anyone else!

i love you all & you make my heart full of joy and acceptance 🩶

[beardedmrbean]

Could not have picked a better song for this

Explore

[15-lizards]

I’ve been doing some reading into past ladies of winter fell (marna locke my beloved) and we know that Catlyn brought the riverland romantic swag to the north when she married— what do you think the fashion looked like under different ladies?. Even northern brides would have brought accessories from their maiden house, along with their personal style, to the starks.

Hmm yeah

Brides from the really high north (like approaching Umber territory) have a habit of covering everything except their faces due to the cold, so they often bring a very stoic, hard, stern vibe as well as clothing that is very covering. But you know they still have their pride so bejeweled/embroidered gowns and headpieces are still there, but with more muted colors probably

Lower northern/white harbor brides are more in touch with a Faith of The Seven oriented culture, so they wear a million times more accessories (especially if they’re from white harbor) lots and lots of jewels and pearls imported from the south and Essos for their wedding presents, so they become the envy/mockery of winterfell.

Mormont women, as always, bring a very wild and untamable vibe to the party. They frequently wear their bow down in youthful braids and often refuse to pin it up. Bear fur cloaks and hats that they probably skinned themselves. Rough clothing that is more practical for hunting and riding than it is for feasts and balls.

Blackwoods classic goths to Me. Everyone else in winterfell is wearing greys and browns and the blackwood brides roll up in what could be mourning clothes as casual wear they all have an affinity for black for some reason. Just cool gothic “I read about arcane magic in my free time” vibes all around. Some sick ass bitches

[gotranting]

The Winter Feast - Part One

I had this idea in my mind, and while it did turn out differently than I planned, hopefully someone will enjoy it.

It is a short Cregan x female reader fic where they knew each other for a long time. She lives on the outskirts of Wolfswood, away from the town and the castle itself. Guarding the Northern nature, she is the one people come to whenever they need certain herbs, or a spell done for them. Or when they need to enter the Wolfswood. During the preparations for the long winter, Cregan along with two Northern Lords ventures out to hunt in order to help in securing the winter stocks. Yet in doing so, he forgets to alert the young witch.

*Disclaimer – The Children of The Forest have a human form in the story. Also, I don't know every detail of GoT lore, so the characters are a bit OOC. I tried to find out more about Cregan's personality but there isn't much written about him? I made him after the …sadly only 5 minute show version. I tried to avoid using Y/N because it really throws me off, so there will be a lot of nicknames in the story.

*Next part will have The Feast itself)

*The only description of the character is red hair and brown eyes, although it's not mentioned as much.

Winter is coming.

The Southern lords may mock these words all they wished, but for Northerners, it was a matter of life and death.

Not all survived the harshness of the season, and if it was to judge by the snowstorms, this winter will take many lives. Young, old, lowborn or highborn – it mattered not. She will come for all if they did not prepare.

It was a common sight during these times, to see the hunters coming back from the Wolfswood, their carts filled with deer, boar, rabbits…all sorts of creatures. The meat would be stored to secure the provisions, for the times when all of Nature lay asleep. The skins and the fur were to be gathered, in order to craft clothing that could shield the people from the biting cold.

Anyone could be a hunter if they had the skill and a weapon to arm themselves. In order to secure Winterfell for the winter, many men and women went out in the untamed lands. Younger ones especially, for what better chance than a hunt to prove their bravery?

It is true that some overestimated the danger of the wild, taking far more than was needed or being needlessly careless. Such folk were always reminded of the consequences. Some did not return. Some returned with a part of them missing. And on some came misfortune long after reaching the presumed safety of their homes.

It seemed that it was not direwolves and bears alone that could tear away a man's arm or take their life. No, something else lurked around those woods, paying close attention during the time of the Hunt. Controlling so it does not get out of hand, and that those who walked amongst the tree giants respected all that was around them.

Perhaps it was the creatures from the stories old nans would tell to scare off little children. Perhaps not.

Old Gods were whispering through the branches as well no doubt, watching all those who entered their domain. However, sometimes there were guardians in a more…human form.

Once they were known as Children of the Forest. A race many believed to have been slaughtered and driven out of Westeros.

Some remained. They could not part from their homes, and it would seem they hid themselves well enough.

How it was done, no one knows. Their own ancient magick I suppose. Perhaps they took the form of humans. Perhaps, with time their features had changed, yet the magick remained. What is known is that they were still around Men, and would continue to be in order to guard the rivers, and the forests – and all that lived in them.

One it would seem stayed in the North. A young woman, one might say still a Summer Child, as she had only lived through twenty winters or so.

Her anscestors were well known to the townsfolk and the higher lords alike. They were respected for their wisdom, offering their help when a young babe fell ill, or when cattle needed help with birthing their young. If one needed herbs which were not easy to find, they would come to her family. If they needed a lover to take interest in them, they knocked on her door.

Or, if they wished for another to never return from their travels, it would seem the girl was the first they went to.

Despite being friendly enough with the villagers, she still lived on the outskirts of the Wolfswood, preferring the company of the animals and greenery instead of a more…talkative bunch.

She was respected yes. Feared as well I would say. They knew she protected their lands and for that they were grateful. Even the former Warden of the North came to consult her, in order to know which hunting grounds were unavailable to them.

The young woman would guide them to the bountiful parts of the woods, where they could fill their carts with game without destroying the balance of their ancient homeland.

In turn, they promised not to take more than was necessary. And so an agreement was made.

Honored by the old Rickon Stark, and his son after he became the new Lord of Winterfell.

The young Wolf of the North. Cregan to her.

She never developed a habit of addressing him by his titles, and the young wolf never complained.

His father introduced them at a younger age, and even though she was far more familiar with his sister, the three of them got along rather well.

As the years passed, Cregan turned to his own duties in order to keep his people safe. The girl could not travel to the castle, as her place was here in the wild. Yet, their friendship never weakened.

He would still come to her every Autumn in order to alert her of the hunting party's whereabouts. And as the Hunting season had arrived, she expected him to find her once more.

It seemed though, that the young Warden was too eager to grasp a bow and his sword once more, for no knock was to be heard on her door.

.

„I propose a bet my friends! In order to make our little adventure more interesting, let us see who will catch the most deer once we reach the clearing.“ A voice rang out through the silence of the Wolfswood. „The one with least kills will need to engage in wooing our beloved Aida.“

„If I remember well, the last time you lost Cerwyn, and attempted to pull the same jest, old Aida threw a hefty amount of potatoes at you. Aren't you still forbidden from entering the kitchens?“ The young Osric Mormont jabbed at his friend as he reminded him of that day.

Old Aida it seems had survived eighty winters for a reason. The old cook might had been but a servant in Winterfell, yet she treated the highborn no different than the kitchen boys and girls that worked with her.

A clever soul would not enter her domain when there was a hasty need to bring the meals on the tables in the castle. If they even tried to rush her, they were met with curses that would make a Wildling cover in shame.

She must have been good with a bow or some other weapon in her youth, for Arnolf Cerwyn was hit with almost every potato she threw at him, after he tried to sweet talk her, making a mistake of blocking her way to the oven.

His closest friends were in the main hall, when they saw the young Lord run out with his head covered, as the surprisingly agile woman hobbled after him with her broom in one hand and the sack in another. He could not hear the end of it for days after the event.

Along with that, he had to bring all the vegetables back to Aida, thus facing her wrath once more.

„Just you laugh Osric. You are only jealous, for you do not know how it feels when a woman chases after you with such passion! She shall see we are meant for one another, mark my words“, Cerwyn grinned as he took another swig of his mead.

Cregan could only huff and roll his eyes as he listened to his companions. Even though the young Warden was no stranger to teasing Arnolf, they would frighten all of the animals around if they continued on with their banter. He told them as much, as he surveyed their surroundings, trying to notice the tracks left in the snow.

„I do believe the deer will flee when they see that in our presence stands the frightening Wolf of the North, wouldn't they Arnolf? He would scare them all with his icy gaze, none can stand against him!“ shouted Osric.

He was only met with a stony glare from the young Warden.

Yet after a short moment of silence, it did not deter him from releasing a howl to which Arnolf merrily joined in. Cregan felt a headache coming as he watched his closest friends double in laughter at their poor jest.

„Come now Lord Stark, do release that frown you always hold. We are away from the castle and our duties. Let us rejoice on this fine day, enjoy a good drink while singing the songs of old.“

„Cerwyn, if you start singing now, I swear to the old Gods, it will be you who will go on that cart. Do you wish to tell Aida that we are the reason Winterfell will starve this winter? I assure you that death by starvation would be a better ending than Aida finding you.“

Despite the sharpness in his tone, Cregan could not help but smirk as he saw his friend's face pale at the image conjured up in his mind no doubt.

„Cregan my friend, after all this time I am wounded that you are not aware of my many talents. One can sing while their arrows still pierce straight through the heart of their target. But fine then! Let us all die of boredom as we seek the bloody animals,“ sighed Arnolf as he unsheathed his bow, finally joining in the search for the herd. Osric could only clap him on the shoulder for comfort as he passed in the other direction.

The young lords spent their time in silence and occasional banter as youth often did, as Arnolf could not keep quiet for too long.

Yet, no matter his merry nature, Lord Cerwyn was aware of the weight of their task.

While they were not the only ones to venture out into these woods in order to prepare for Winter, they could not return without a filled wagon. Their people depended on them, and there were many mouths to feed. The night would soon fall upon them, and they could not stay away from the castle for too long. They had to do the most they could with the time they had.

As they went through the denser part of the forest, it was becoming harder to tread through the snow which only seemed to become deeper as they went forward. The large firs looming above them obscured what little remained of the daylight.

Soon, other creatures besides simple deer and rabbits would roam about, and even though the three men had faced blood thirstier foes, it would be a difficult fight if they could not see nor move properly in a fight. The light mood from before was replaced with unease, for it felt as if more than a few wandering ravens observed their movements.

Cregan's frown only deepened as he listened for any unwanted noise.

A branch snapped above them, all three sharply looking up for any sign of a threat. Yet only a deep croak was heard as two ravens flew out of their nest.

„I do not think we are alone,“ whispered Arnolf, his bow drawn to the thickness of the fir canopy.

„Perhaps Aida has finally tracked you down Arnolf“, remarked Cregan, tightening his grip on Ice.

Indeed, even with the birds flying away, the hairs on their necks still stood up, as the feeling of being watched did not disappear.

As they moved forward, a shadow crept above them.

Or was it around them?

Why did it seem as if the trees were closing in on them slowly? Where was the path they came from, it was becoming hard to tell. Were they spinning in circles?

Their heads were starting to feel heavy as they tried to orient themselves. While they could only feel the eyes upon them before, now it was as if they could see thousands of glistening orbs everywhere they turned.

Seeing a real enemy was one thing. Feeling as if it is all in your head without being able to fight back was another. The three certainly felt like one would after far too much mead. Only, their flasks were still full.

„We need to turn back. Now.“ One of the lords shouted - it was difficult to tell which one for all the sounds were muffled. It was rather obvious they were unwelcome here.

„Which way?“ That could have been Osric. Must've been. Shielding his eyes from the rising storm he sought out his friends, unable to see either of them.

A strong pull at his cloak dragged him back.

Aiming for the neck he turned towards the target, only to clash with the greatsword, as grey eyes pierced through him.

Ice and years of practice shielded Cregan from a certain death had that dagger gone through his neck. He gave no time for Osric to come to himself as he nodded in the other direction, dragging Osric along with him.

The two ran as they thought the trees would swallow them up if they lingered a moment more.

Gasping, they both crashed into the clearing, the storm behind them settling down.

„What in the fucking hells was that?“ Arnolf stood by them as he tried to catch his breath as well. They could hear each other properly at last.

A creek of water was humming nearby, even a few chirping birds could be heard as they searched for any remaining seeds.

Strange how only a moment ago there was no sound at all.

„I do not know, and I do not think I wish to know. We are alive, that is all that matters. And look! Over there, do you see them?“ Osric pointed at the herd on the other side of the creek.

Turning around, all three caught sight of the deer trying to reach the last few remains of green hanging on the branches.

Looks like they found what they were looking for after all.

Crouching down, their bowstrings drawn back, they focused on the task that brought them here in the first place. There would be time to talk about what they experienced, but for now they had to be quick.

For the storm could always return as fast as it arrived.

.

„Admit it brother! You lost on purpose! You do know, you don't need a wager as an excuse to court Aida. We shan't judge your tastes.“ Cregan laughed boisterously, as they loaded the last carcass onto the cart.

It seems that the North would survive after all, if all other hunts were as successful.

The road back was far easier than the one they took when entering the woods, thankfully without any new strange encounters. Their hunt had gone far better than they thought it would, creating a joyful atmosphere as they prepared to return home.

Cregan's frown melted as he saw his friends laughing together. Nevertheless, he could not forget what happened to them. It was unlike anything he experienced before. He came to his senses as fast as he could. Still, whatever that was caught him unaware.

He could not kill the wind, nor could he stab eyes if there was no body attached to them. He was caught unprepared.

That frightened him, even as his laughter joined that of his friends.

She would know, he thought. Surely she would. To know Nature was her duty. Surely, she would've been alerted of all who come and go out of the Wolfswood. Surely his friend would…

Cregan inhaled sharply as he heard a light tapping sound behind him, as if something was knocking against the tree bark.

The Starks took their oaths seriously. So did she.

Gods, he made a mistake.

As he turned around, the tapping became louder. The shadow from before had a clearer form now, as she lowered her hood, sheathing her dagger back into its scabbard. Grey eyes met stern brown ones. He took one breath more.

„My lady“, he bowed his head, hoping to somehow melt the iciness of her expression as she regarded the three of them. A raven settled down on her shoulder, as she took a step towards the men, casting one glance to the cart.

„Not much of a lady Lord Stark. I do believe I told you to stop calling me that,“ she murmured gazing back at him. „We had an agreement, you do recall that yes?"

Osric and Arnolf could only exchange an amused look as they watched the Warden of the North trying to appease the young witch. It was a rare thing for her to call him by his titles, if only to tease him. Yet now, there was no trace of a smile.

„Aye, I remember. I swear to you it was an honest mistake, one that I regret committing. We wanted to head back to Winterfell as soon as possible. There is a Feast coming, and I need to oversee the planning of it.“

The witch's expression remained unchanged. Cregan tried once more.

„You have my word Y/N, we haven't taken more than is needed. We were in the clearing you took me to. What you see in the cart is all we hunted.“

„Aye, we were lucky to get to that bloody clearing in the first place. Say Y/N“, added Osric, „is it possible for a blizzard to occur in only one part of the forest?“

As Osric continued to explain what happened to them, Cregan's eyes darkened as he regarded the witch in front of him. She did not seem surprised at all at the strange event taking place.

„All of that to teach us a lesson?“ She turned her eyes back to Cregan, both now glaring at one another.

„I do not ask you to alert me Cregan because I do not trust you to keep our Oath.“

She cut him off as he went to speak once more: „And before you accuse me of anything, know that if I had not reached you on time, we would not be having this discussion. What happened to you is a measure of precaution. I told you once, those who trespass in the Wolfswood do not get out of them alive. Those are not words for bed stories to scare little children.“

She examined him once more, trying to see if her wards had caused any injury. „The spells do not make a difference between a friend or foe.“

She could try to hide behind a stern voice all she wanted, but Cregan could see how her eyes kept moving over his form, trying to see if there is any trace of blood.

He did not know when he moved, for in a few strides he stood in front of her, his eyes softening as he laid one hand on her shoulder.

„We are all right Y/N. We are here, and alive, it is all right,“ He murmured, as his fingers unconsciously traced soothing patterns on her shoulder.

Brown eyes met grey ones for a brief moment before she returned to the task of looking him over. Despite her glares, he knew she was afraid of not making it in time.

He always saw through her when it came to this. Cregan knew how protective she would get over the people she cared about. He supposed they were alike in that matter. And if he was correct in his assumption, she will do her best to hide her worry.

„You bloody idiot, how can you be so reckless!“, she shoved him and he could not help but laugh, which only added to her anger. „You absolute fool!“

He had to take a step back to stop himself from falling down. She was smaller than him, yet he found himself on the ground far more times than he wanted to admit when he was on the receiving end of her anger.

„Is that the way to speak to your Lord?“ he quirked an eyebrow, trying to catch her hands, as she kept pushing at his shoulders.

„Oh will you shut it, you almost died because of a stupid mistake.“

„From your wards.“

„Shut it, I am aware!“

He chuckled once more, finally grasping her hands in his, bringing them between their chests, his eyes holding a gleam as he tried to calm her once more.

„I promise my lady, the next time I do something as reckless as that you are welcome to unleash your fury all you want. For now, I-„

„There will not be a next time, and I do not need your permission for that.“

„As you wish my lady.“

„Shut it.“

His gaze rested on her, a fond smile still playing at his lips. They bickered often, when one or the other did something overly dangerous. Considering their duties, threatening situations were unavoidable. Even though both were skillful fighters, one could often hear them arguing over the lack of carefulness.

A cough interrupted them, making Cregan quickly release her hands, as Arnolf walked up to the pair.

„In order to settle this matter once and for all I propose a truce! Dear Y/N, would you join us in the Winter Feast? We shall settle this in the Northern way! With a good song, and an even better tankard of mead, all of today's troubles shall be forgotten.“

„You cannot refuse, for after all, we have almost lost our Warden today“, chimed in Osric as he came up on the other side of them.

„Besides", a sly smirk appeared on his face, "We are wounded, for you have not paid such care to our own possible injuries“, he clapped the young Wolf on the shoulder. Cregan only frowned as he regained his composure, rolling his eyes at his friend's antics.

„I planned on coming anyway, you needn't guilt me into going my Lords.“ The raven above her croaked once more. „For now, I have other matters to attend to, so I shall bid you farewell.“

As she turned towards the Wolfswood, Cregan found himself shouting after her: „You are armed yes?“

Rising her dagger out of her scabbard she waved as the shadows of the giant fir trees enveloped her once more.

„Falling for women who attempt to kill you Cregan? Can't say I am surprised. It is all right, we shan't judge your tastes old friend. Besides, she is a fiesty beauty.“

Arnolf's face was met with fresh snow, as Cregan pushed past him towards their horses.

„Shut it.“

[greenwitchcrafts]

April 2024 witch guide

Full moon: April 23rd

New moon: April 8th

Solar eclipse: April 8th

Sabbats: None

April Pink Moon

Known as: Breaking Ice Moon, Budding Moon of Plants & shrubs, Budding Tree Moon, Eastermonath, Frog Moon, Green Grass Moon, Growing Moon, Hare Moon, Moon of the Red Grass appearing, Moon When Geese Lay Egss, Moon When thd Ducks Come Back, Ostarmanoth, Planters Moon, Seed Moon, Sucker Moon & Wind Moon

Element: Fire

Zodiac: Aries & Taurus

Nature spirits: Plant Faeries

Deities: Anahita, Bast, Ceres, Cernunnos, Hathor, Herne, Ishtar, Kali, Tawaret & Venus

Animals: Bear & wolf

Birds:  Hawk & magpie

Trees: Bay, forsythia, hazel, lilac, pine & willow

Herbs:  Basil, chives, dandelion, dill, dogwood, dragon's blood, fennel, geranium, milkweed & thistle

Flowers: Daisy & sweetpea

Scents: Bay, bergamot, patchouli & pine

Stones: Angelite, beryl, diamond, garnet, malachite, quartz, ruby, sapphire, sard, selenite & zircon

Colors: Blue, brown, crimson, gold & green

Energy: Authority, balance, beginnings, change, fertility, growth, leadership, opportunities, overcoming obstacles, personal skill development, re-birth, self-evaluation, self-reliance, spirituality, temper control & willpower

April’s full Moon often corresponded with the early springtime blooms of a certain wildflower native to eastern North America: Phlox subulata—commonly called creeping phlox or moss phlox—which also went by the name “moss pink.” Thanks to this seasonal association, this full Moon came to be called the “Pink” Moon.

Other celebrations:

• Walpurgis Night - April 30th

Also known as: May Eve

The origins of the holiday date back to pagan celebrations of fertility rites & the coming of spring. After the Norse were Christianized, the pagan celebration became combined with the legend of St. Walburga, an English-born nun who lived at Heidenheim monastery in Germany & later became the abbess there. Saint Walpurga was hailed by the Christians of Germany for battling "pest, rabies, & whooping cough as well as against witchcraft". Christians prayed to God through the intercession of Saint Walpurga in order to protect themselves from witchcraft, as Saint Walpurga was successful in converting the local populace to Christianity. Although it is likely that the date of her canonization is purely coincidental to the date of the pagan celebrations of spring, people were able to celebrate both events under church law without fear of reprisal.

Walpurgis Night is still a traditional holiday celebrated on April 30th in northern Europe & Scandinavia. In Sweden typical holiday activities include the singing of traditional spring folk songs & the lighting of bonfires. In Germany the holiday is celebrated by dressing in costumes, playing pranks on people & creating loud noises meant to keep evil at bay. Many people also hang blessed sprigs of foliage from houses & barns to ward off evil spirits, or they leave pieces of bread spread with butter & honey, called ankenschnitt, as offerings for phantom hounds.

Sources:

Farmersalmanac .com

Llewellyn's Complete Book of Correspondences by Sandra Kines

Wikipedia

A Witch's Book of Correspondences by Viktorija Briggs

Encyclopedia britannica

Llewellyn 2024 magical almanac Practical magic for everyday living

[thetraumaking]

The Accursed Crown

Note: I did not enjoy writing this chapter.

Other Chapters

Chapter 14: Stale Ass Wheat Bread

She felt the ship come to a halt, digging into the land before dropping the metal plank with a loud thud. Her fingers fiddling with one another as she looked at the door, her nerves were at high alert, waiting for the door open and filling the room with fire nation soldiers. 

Seeing her so nervous, her father places a comforting hand on her shoulder. “Don’t worry, dear. It’ll be just a meeting to sort out a couple things, we’ll be home once we’re done.” 

Wordlessly, she nodded her head, sparing her father a meek smile. By her father’s side, they walked out of their room to the dock. The fire nation soldiers that escorted them to the fire nation stood by in files. As guests of the royal family, one would expect them to receive all the prestige and respect from all those who serve their hosts, yet, as Yue looks around the men that stood by her sides, she couldn’t help but grimace at the bored, yawning faces of those soldiers. They were haphazardly swinging their arms, whispering to one another, shifting and bouncing on the balls of their feet, no military bearing in sight for as far as the eye could see. 

Her eyes then trained off to her side, to see her father’s reaction. He stood firm, face stoic and cold as an ice sculpture as he moved along by her side. 

Following his lead, she held her head high despite the urge to retreat back to their room. Walking off the plank, they were greeted by yet another soldier, though compared to the one that flocked around the ship, this one had no helmet on. Dark brown hair and a sharp face to match. 

The man bowed with much unneeded force. “Greetings, Chief Arnook and Princess Yue of the Northern Water Tribe. I am Lieutenant Zhao, I shall be your guide till further notice.” He stood up with a huff, “Now, if you would, please follow me.”

Yue shared a look with her father before doing so. They climbed up what she believed was over a thousand sets of stairs. The closer they got to the top, the closer she believed they got to the sun.

If she were to describe the palace in one word, she would say “suffocating.”  Similar to the element that their hosts bend, everything was yellow or red, and similar to how fire use up all the air, it was suffocating. 

Their guide, Zhao, visibly brightened when they made it at the front gates of the palace, where there stood four individuals. Once they made it to the top, they saw a stark contrast to how those four were compared to the others that stood in line. While the workers and staff, Yue assumed, had their heads low in a bow and dressed in similar outfits with minor differences. 

The four at the centre stood tall. Their dresses were made of the finest of silk, she could only guess how expensive they were. Two children, around her age, maybe a couple years younger, and two adults, one of which was more youthful than the other. 

“I greet the Princesses and Prince of the Fire Nation.” Her father bows to the four. She was quick to echo in after him, keeping her eyes closed as she bowed. 

When they looked up, her father got into an exchange of pleasantries with the oldest of the four, Princess Ursa. She assumed that she was the mother of the two younger ones, who were busy tugging on the sleeves of the fourth person. Prince Zuko and Princess Azula, she recalled hearing about them from her father and his advisors. She then looked towards the stoic faced one, you. With the branded number on the cheek and tired, distant eyes. 

076, an adult, she concluded. There were many whispers going around you, they say you were the bastard of the prince prior to his engagement to Ursa and angered by his son’s conduct, the Fire Lord had sent out a hunt for you and your mother to erase all trace of your existence. At her last ditch attempt to save you, your mother had sent you to the child soldier program where your abilities thrived. So much so the royal family could no longer ignore your achievements, and as if you had proven yourself, the Fire Lord had called you to the palace to better serve their cause in expansion. 

They later then made you into an instructor to further develop the direct descendants. And despite the prince’s treason, his wife, the ever-so-kind princess Ursa has still treated you like family and cared for you as if her own. 

Though that is nothing but the word of the mouth. 

She was snapped out of her stupor when she felt a tap on her shoulder. Looking over to her father, she sent him a quizzical look. 

“I will be in the meeting room, will you be alright on your own for a little while?” Wanting to ease his worry, she nodded with a smile. 

Watching him leave with Princess Ursa and Lieutenant Zhao, her once confident smile faltered. 

“Um… hi, I’m Zuko.” 

She looked curiously at the offered hand before taking it. The prince’s hand was warm, she could tell he had a kind heart, although a bit awkward and sweaty. 

Her lips quirked up while she introduced herself. She thought, like her brother, Azula would do the same, but the girl simply said her name and crossed her arms. Then she looked to you, expecting to be waved off, she fidgeted. 

“You don’t need to know their name, they’re with me.” Azula spoke for you, grabbing your arm before pulling you away from her and Zuko. “It was a pleasure meeting you, Princess Yue, please do enjoy your stay at the palace.” You spoke over your shoulder before being led away. 

Her and Zuko were left in their lonesome. She wondered if she had offended the younger girl in some way. The way she spoke to her was quite dismissive, she got the impression that Azula did not like her much. 

“Have I done something wrong?”

Zuko lets out a huff, placing his hands on his hips with an eye roll, “I wouldn’t worry too much about her, she’s just weird. Azula being Azula.” He then brought her to the guest room, where all their luggage were currently being handled by the maids. “Your supper will be brought in in a bit when your father gets back from the meeting. We’re going to have dinner together later tonight so be ready for that.” 

He left shortly after that, making sure that she understood everything. She sat on the large bed before letting out a sigh. 

Once her father comes back, they’ll have a dinner with the royal family and they’ll leave the next day. They’ll be back home in less than twenty four hours. She’ll just have to wait a bit more. 

As she sat there on the bed, she became restless. Their supper has come, yet no sight of her father. Has something happened to him? Where was he? Was he still at the meeting? Surely the Fire Lord hasn’t done anything to him. Surely the Fire Lord knows the implication of harming the envoy. 

Yes they are at war but there is a certain respect each party must hold for one another, no one harms the messenger for they are innocent, they are simply following orders and sending out word. 

The sudden knock startled her, snapping her out of her spiral. 

When she opened the door, surprise would be a little too weak of a word to describe the feeling she was having. At the door stood you. 

“Apologise for the disturbance, Princess Yue.” You bowed, “I received word from the Fire Lord that your father’s meeting will be extended due to a complication from our part.” You stood up before offering, “Princess Yue, would you give me the honour of joining me for a stroll?” 

She held your gaze before agreeing, she was curious about you. The rumours only made you out to be some vengeful spirit but as she walks beside you, stealing glances at you, you resemble more of a docile pet. 

As she looked at you, she couldn’t help but notice how tall you were. The clothes you wore, despite the high quality, were more suited for someone who’s more physically active. She has heard of your feats in battle and how often you are sent away on sieges. You looked tired. 

Like a shallow creek, you seemed to be just going with the motion. Being pulled and tugged this way and that. If one were to gaze inside your head, she wondered what was inside. 

You were also covered in scars. The number on your cheek seemed to be branded on and later added paint. Both of your palms were scarred over, must be due to training with your bending. She wondered if you could still feel texture with how much damage your poor hands took. There was also a large burn just peeking from under your collar. 

“Is something the matter, Princess Yue?” You stopped walking to look at her. 

“No, it’s just… that number on your cheek…” She hesitated, wondering if she’s crossing any boundaries, “it- it looks painful.”

“It was.”

“… does it still hurt?”

Your reaction surprised her. The small smile on your lips looked foreign on you, as if you were not used to the action. Rather than the branded mark on your face, the smile looked as if it hurt you more. 

But, she took it as a privilege. Something about the rarely offered smiles never fails to draw out her own. 

Shaking your head, you crouched down on your knee, “No, would you like to feel for it yourself?” 

She nodded her head before ever so lightly grazing her fingertips over the scarred tissue. The bumpy uneven skin felt foreign to her. The wound looks quite old. How old were you when they branded this number on you? Did they at least have the courtesy to let the burn heal before adding the paint? Did they at least treat it afterwards? 

As she stood there, tracing the numbers on your cheek, you simply enjoyed her cool touch. 

“Would you like me to heal them? The scars.” She looked at you. 

Her eyes shining so brightly it made you lost. “You… can? Why?”

“To show my gratitude for treating us with respect. You look and speak to us with honesty, you don’t look down on us. And…” Should she say this? She doesn’t even know you that well. But, that look in your eyes-

“You’re kind.”

_________

I hate genuine kind characters, hard to relate and feel like they're fake.