#snow capped mushrooms

[beancat]

Snow capped mushrooms

[kuramirocket]

Here are my score and rankings in the mini games for Odyssey:

Some of these games were hell. If you know, you know.

The jump rope, volleyball and rc car challenges were so fcking frustrating omfg. They took me forever. The Iceburn circuit was pretty up there too.

As for the Koopa free running the only ones I found hard on some level were the ones in the Cascade, Lake, and Lost Kingdom from what I recall. The other ones were pretty easy once I saw the path all the Koopas took or I just found the quickest path myself. Lol

I was just so glad when I finally got the power moons for passing them. Definitley some of the hardest power moons to get in the game @-@

[lacyscabinet]

Okay but now imagine reader didn't die through sickness, imagine they committed suicide. That they gave up hope completely and left a message for the other girls to use you and to make sure Natalie did too? That they hated life but loved her and even if they didn't make it, they wanted to help her survive. I'm not well about this.

Death cap

A/N: I'm not well about this either anon you are so seen. Hello my dear anon ik that you probably thought I wouldn't write your request at this point but here I am 😭 life absolutely SUCKS lately so what do I do? Go to therapy? Adopt a carnivorous plant? NO! A WRITING COMEBACK! It's pretty short but enjoy and stay safe 🤍🤍

!!!for those who don't know the anon is referring to my fic "the wilderness dance", here it is. You can totally read this without reading the other one as well:)

Absolutely not proofread! :) BUT beta read by my brotha @pinkmoonzzz 🤍🤍 and the ex gf reminder™ @littlelqtte

NAVIGATION

TW: suicide via mushrooms (tlou stans rise), CANNIBALISM!!!!! It's only implied but still, reader is DEAD!!!!!!, pain and suffering. Please please please do not read if any of these topics disturb you in any way!!!

Autumn had slowly died right before your eyes. You could tell. In the mornings, the cold, stinging air blew onto your face, while in the evenings, it was almost impossible to stay outside the cabin without a crackling fire warming you up. Hence why, when Jackie stepped outside the door that fateful night, you knew you weren't going to see your team's captain ever again.

Predictably, the situation aggravated even more after that day. And there's only so much a teenager can take. Surviving was a privilege at this point, and if being privileged meant eating your dead friends, you weren't sure if you wanted to be there at all.

Natalie was away most of the time, and it's not like there was much to do inside the cabin. The days went by, and slowly your brain started to fog: memories of life before the crash appearing blurry and messy. All your hopes of watching flowers bloom again soon vanished in the dark attic where you spent most of your sorrowed days. Soon enough only death and hunger were left in you.

So one particularly cold night, after slipping out of Nat's arms and placing a small peck on her forehead, you went up the unstable ladder leading to the attic. In the dim light of an old candle, you rummaged through a small, hidden box where you kept all your things, or at least the things you didn't want the others to know about.

You took your diary, scribbled down what you needed to say, and then rummaged in the box a little more. And right there before your eyes, you saw it.

Amanita phalloides.

Or more commonly known as Dead cap. You had found it weeks ago, picked it up, dried it, and then stored it in a jar, always making sure that no one could find it. It was deadly poisonous after all. But you still kept it. Just in case.

"Natalie?"

Nat heard a quiet voice coming from the cabin's porch. Snow crunched under her boots as she kneeled in the snow, hand holding onto something colder than the hauntingly freezing weather.

"Go away, Misty," she didn't hesitate to say, not moving an inch. Still facing away from the blonde-haired girl, hiding her tears from anyone who wasn't the lifeless frame of the girl she loved.

"Nat" Misty called out for her again "We found something that you might want to see," she then suddenly announced, finally catching Natalie's attention. Wiping her damp and cold cheeks with the back of her old jacket, she finally turned around, meeting Misty's eyes.

"I told you not to touch her things," she instantly spat in Misty's face, noticing her holding your beat-up diary in her hands.

"We were trying to find something to light up the fire. We ran out of wood. We wanted to use some empty pages, but as I said, I think there's something you might want to see..." she looked down at the object, holding it out for Natalie "....Something you might want to read."

Confused, Nat took one last look at your now blue, pale, and stiff body before getting up, immediately snatching the diary from Misty's claws, holding it to her chest while walking back inside.

When she entered the living room, everyone looked up at her from their spots on the floor. They had all gathered around the fire, all snuggled in raggedy blankets. She could recognize the blanket she wrapped you up in just days before you passed: it was now keeping Mari warm as she stirred something in a big pot, probably some sort of watery soup. It was all they had left after all.

She didn't sit down with them though. She needed to be alone, because no one around her was you, and that killed her every day since you had left.

So she walked straight to the kitchen, sitting down on a chair at the table, feeling the leather on the cover of your diary under the pads of her freezing fingers.

Her hands trembled as she opened the diary, the weight of your final words pressing down on her. She skimmed through the pages, each line made her feel uneasy, gut-wrenching revelations of your despair and resignation were the only things that could be found on the paper. The pain you felt, your ultimate choice, and, one last plea for Natalie to survive, even if it meant feeding off of you, literally. It was all laid bare right before her eyes.

Natalie’s eyes welled with ,tears as she read your desperate farewell. The stark realization that you had been so hopeless and alone was almost too much to bear. She tried to swallow the lump in her throat, suppressing it just like she had grown used to suppress the almost constant rumbling in her stomach.

But the sobs came uncontrollably and the hunger couldn't be disguised.

The diary fell from her hands. She clutched her chest, trying to keep her cries silent, but the anguish was too great.

Then suddenly, a noise from outside pierced through her grief: the sharp, rhythmic sound of someone sharpening a knife. Her breath hitched as her eyes widened in horror.

The cabin was awfully quiet.

Your body was still out in the snow.

Natalie’s mind raced. She stumbled out of the kitchen, her feet slipping on the icy floor as she rushed to the door. The cold air hit her like a slap as she forced herself outside, the snow crunching under her weight once again. She followed the sound, her heart pounding in her chest, each step a struggle against the biting cold and her own rising panic.

As she neared the edge of the clearing where your body lay, she stopped in her tracks after noticing everyone already huddled up around you, flashbacks of Jackie appearing before her.

And maybe, Natalie would've tried to stop them from reducing you to a bunch of bones she would have to throw away in the site of the plane crash when the morning came.

But, they had already started.

A/n: skibidi, skibidi toilet. I love you pls don't die.

my ask button is now active again so go crazy:) send some happy requests please 😭😭

shiver me timbers

[deathstrokewilson]

Landing at Last

//The small plane descends at last, the braking more bumpy this time, as if the runway is made out of something other than concrete. Outside the window, lush green greets their eyes. During the flight, Slade had made sure both @copperheadwilson and @slades-renegade ate- breakfast being omelets with onions, peppers and mushrooms, with a side of spicy venison sausage, and lunch consisting of hot turkey sandwiches on sourdough bread with a peppercorn-infused stoneground mustard and a mixed vegetable soup. Once the plane has settled, Slade grabs his bag and steps out first, the brief crunch of dirt and gravel silencing once he reaches the thick green grass. They're in a mountainous area, though the mountains are all a beautiful grass-green, with delicately snow-capped peaks. The area is empty, an open valley of green grass and little wildflowers, save for a quaint cabin nearby.// "Take a minute to stretch, and then we're heading inside." //Slade's eye scans the area, making sure no threats were to leap out, though from where would they come? There's no hiding places, and the valley is quite large- the gradual beginnings of the mountain slopes around them multiple miles off in each direction. It's incredibly peaceful. Wintergreen, in the meantime, is offloading supplies from the plane, piling them onto a cart to bring to the cabin.//

[serene-faerie]

Canon Mortal/Elf couples as aesthetics:

Andreth/Aegnor— a pale sunrise over the mountains, reading a well-loved book beneath a maple tree, long braided hair, autumn leaves, beaded jewelry, the golden hour, a tranquil lake, kissing the freckles of one's face, silver courtly robes, earth-coloured dresses, morning horse rides, shy smiles, the ache of nostalgia, herbal tea, writing love poems, campfire stories, forget-me-nots, flickering candles, red robins, the smell of cinnamon, a bowl of mushroom soup, amber gemstones, the taste of lingonberries, bittersweet memories, tears of regret, parting ways but never letting go.

Beren/Lúthien— hot summer nights, dancing barefoot in a glade, daisies, gentle warrior hands, sweet blackberries, fiery sunsets, flower petals caught in strands of hair, stubble tickling smooth cheeks, fireflies lighting up the night, stars that glitter like diamonds, crystal clear waters, shimmering skin, dark-green capes, flowing blue gowns, kisses upon fingertips, nightingales, blue butterflies, strolls through the forest, the sound of rushing rivers, the smell of lilacs, undying loyalty and love, the pale blue dawn, a crackling campfire, silver jewelry, emeralds, always keeping promises, a life of peace and bliss together.

Tuor/Idril— baroque architecture, eyes as blue as the ocean, braided golden hair, white doves, grandiose fountains, sparkling white towers, the smell of rosewater, grand baths with petals in the water, citrus trees, stolen kisses in flower gardens, an instant connection, rich silks, gold jewelry, blue summer skies, a shining city, snow-capped mountains, chandeliers of crystal and gold, sunlight filtering through stained glass, high ceilings, marble floors, the warmth of falling in love, romantic paintings, pink roses, rebuilding a broken home together, staying strong for others.

Aragorn/Arwen— elegant wooden archways, pale pink evening skies, all-knowing smiles, quiet moments in a library, holding hands, flowing velvet gowns, jewel tones, whispered reassurances, undying faith, a crystal pendant on a silver chain, the smell of lavender, twinkling stars above, cups of fruit wine, the taste of dark chocolate, sweet nothings, words of love, juicy pomegranate seeds, impressionist landscape paintings, romantic architecture, love sonnets, cursive handwriting, marble towers, thrushes, accepting the impermanence of life, bittersweet grief, bare trees, a cold winter.

[keenie-bopper]

Father holds out a snow globe like item and from within is a creature far beyond the realm of possibility. “Allow me to share with you, The Twins. A colossus retired after a couple of Cycles due to its immense level of destruction. Two conjoined heads floating far above the ground that drools a substance that births horrifying creatures that, if left alone, would easily multiply and destroy any and all armies unfortunate enough to bare witness to its grotesque appearance and nature. Do note the features upon its face, a yin and yang. Desire, hesitance. Joy, agony. Happy, sad. Truly a creature worth its weight in catastrophe. Don’t you think?”

“Let us pray no one will see it in full size. Would you like to keep it?”

The Cherub stares at the colossus. She is left speechless in horror. How could she ever find a place for this creature to fit in? Keenie almost felt sorry for the horrid mess in front of her. But this was a direct request from The Very Father himself. Chances like these are very rare and never should be taken lightly.

"Well Sir, could you give the team a moment to discuss how we could adapt this..." She trails off. "Concept into a fully fledged animal? This request will take some workshopping, but I am sure we can find a solution."

Heck if I know what that beast will become... maybe it won't even be an animal! Maybe God could help make a fungus like the Shaggy Ink Cap? The black ooze that this mushroom secretes is filled with spores that will one day make new fungi.

@themosthatedbeingg / @forgottenstarlightwishes A little help guys?!

[toadtowngazette]

Every Country in the Mario Universe (so far)

I wanted to make a "little" compilation of all the different Kingdoms, Lands, and other countries within the Super Mario franchise that have been shown or mentioned, so here is is! This is mainly meant to be an informational post for anyone researching Mario stuff. Only the video game locations will be mentioned, as well as only things canonically within the Mario universe, meaning I will not include crossover material or real life locations, although some of the names of locations may originate from external material, and is only added for clarity. Anyways, here we go!

Countries

In order of introduction:

Metro Kingdom (Donkey Kong) - Mushroom Kingdom (Super Mario Bros.) - Subcon (Super Mario Bros. 2), Grass Land, Desert Land, Water Land, Giant Land, Sky Land, Ice Land, Pipe Land, Dark Land (Super Mario Bros. 3) - Sarasaland which contains: Birabuto Kingdom, Muda Kingdom, Easton Kingdom, Chai Kingdom (Super Mario Land) - Mario Land (Super Mario Land 2) - Jewelry Land (Yoshi's Safari) - Dinosaur Land (Super Mario World) - Jungle Kingdom (Donkey Kong Country) - Koopa Kingdom (Super Mario World 2: Yoshi's Island) - Lethal Lava Land, Shifting Sand Land, Water Land (painting world), Snowman's Land, Tiny People Country/Giant People Country (Super Mario 64) - Nimbus Land (Super Mario RPG) - Sherbet Land (Mario Kart 64) - Banana Fairy Kingdom (Donkey Kong 64) Pirate Land, Western Land, Space Land, Mystery Land, Horror Land, Bowser Land (Mario Party 2) - Dry Dry Kingdom (Paper Mario) - Cheese Land, Snow Land (Mario Kart: Super Circuit) - Cookie Land (Mario Kart: Double Dash!!) - Beanbean Kingdom (Mario & Luigi: Superstar Saga) - Waffle Kingdom (Paper Mario: The Thousand Year Door) -

Banana Kingdom, Orange Kingdom, Watermelon Kingdom, Apple Kingdom, Strawberry Kingdom, Pineapple Kingdom, Lemon Kingdom, Grape Kingdom, Cherry Kingdom, Peach Kingdom, Melon Kingdom, Durian Kingdom, Pear Kingdom, Lychee Kingdom, Chili Pepper Kingdom, Star Fruit Kingdom (Donkey Kong Jungle Beat) - Squirpia, Flora Kingdom, Sammer's Kingdom (Super Paper Mario) Honeyhive Kingdom (Super Mario Galaxy) - Baseball Kingdom (Mario Super Sluggers) - Pi'illo Kingdom (Mario & Luigi: Dream Team) - Sprixie Kingdom (Super Mario 3D World) - Item Castle Land (Mario Party: Island Tour) - Sweet Sweet Kingdom (Mario Kart 8) - Cap Kingdom, Cascade Kingdom, Sand Kingdom, Lake Kingdom, Wooded Kingdom, Cloud Kingdom, Lost Kingdom, Snow Kingdom, Seaside Kingdom, Luncheon Kingdom, Ruined Kingdom, Bowser's Kingdom, Moon Kingdom, Dark Side, Darker Side (Super Mario Odyssey) - Kingdom of Bask (Mario Tennis Aces) - Remote Kingdom, Boost Kingdom (Mario Kart Live: Home Circuit) - Cat Kingdom (Super Mario 3D World + Bowser's Fury) - Flower Kingdom (Super Mario Bros. Wonder) - Concordia (Mario & Luigi: Brothership)

I'm pretty sure that's all of them, but if you think I missed any, drop a message in the submissions box!

Notes

Bowser seems to have at least 4 distinct kingdoms in the games: Dark Land, Koopa Kingdom, Bowser Land and Bowser's Kingdom. I will still count these as separate countries since nothing in-game states they are part of the same domain, despite being ruled by the same individual.

Although there are many "king" characters in the Mario series, many are not shown to have their own kingdoms in-game, so none of those were included, as it is merely speculative.

Some locations listed are depicted as small areas within spin-off games (Mario Kart courses and Mario Party boards), and may not be actual countries in-universe. I listed them anyways because it is still technically possible, and the names of these locations in other languages use the terms "country" and "kingdom" as well.

The "Cat Kingdom" is the Korean name of Lake Lapcat in Bowser's Fury, so that was included as well as "Tiny People Country, Giant People Country" as they are the Chinese name for Tiny Huge Island from Super Mario 64. Additionally, "Water Land" is used as the name of World 3 in Super Mario Bros. 3 as well as the Japanese name of Dire, Dire Docks, and the painting worlds are stated to be separate from the regular world in the Mario series, so I listed both as distinct countries.

The "Jungle Kingdom" was the name given to Donkey Kong's domain in the Super Mario Bros. Movie. While the film is not canon, I included the name as the term for his region, as Donkey Kong is known as "King of the Jungle" in multiple games.

Credit goes to Nintendo and all affiliated parties, and to the Super Mario Wiki for most of this information.

[nonotranslates]

Owen Wizard's Party 2023 SSR Card - [A Mocking Laugh for the Forest Where One Dreams] - Card Story (ft. Akira), Card Episode, Home Screen Voice

====== Card Story: Chapter 1 - Flames To Vanquish Those Thoughts ======

Akira: Haa, haa…… Owen, please wait……! I can’t catch up to your broom on my feet……

Owen: Why do I have to be the one to match your pace? Who is the one who will be in trouble if my protection magic broke off? If anything happens because you strayed too far, I’m not gonna bother about you. 

Akira: Eek, sorry……! I’ll do my best to catch up with you! 

‘Lately, voices of people speaking could be heard from the Forest of Dreams.’ Hearing such rumours, we came to investigate. 

Because Owen is familiar with the forest and happened to be free, he was chosen for this task. Though he looked annoyed from the bottom of his heart, somehow, it seemed as though he had a clue what’s going on. 

Akira: But it really is strange, for voices to be heard so frequently in a forest as empty as this. 

Akira: Though Snow and White both thought it’s likely just spirits or the like hanging around……

???: ……Eee……

At that moment, as the wind blew, I heard something that sounded like a person speaking. 

Akira: Just now, that was...

A man’s voice: ……go…. was it…..

Someone was muttering something. I turned around to look, but all I could see are bushes that reached as far as my knees, with no signs of another person in sight. 

Akira: (D-Don’t tell me it really is a ghost……!?) 

*Rustling sound* 

Owen: Ahh, as I thought. 

Even as I turned pale, Owen paid no attention to me and peered nonchalantly at the bush. 

Owen: That whole ‘voices from the forest’ business is the doing of these things here. 

Akira: This is……

On the other side of the bush, was a patch of mushrooms with caps in the shape of flowers, glowing brilliantly in all the shades of a rainbow. 

Akira: My, what unusual-looking mushrooms. But, what does it have to do with the voices just now……? 

At that very moment, a breeze whirred across us and I could hear voices coming from the mushrooms at my feet. 

A woman’s voice: Oh my, it’s so warm here, I don’t even need a coat anymore. 

Akira: !? The mushroom spoke……!? 

Owen: These things here have the ability to mimic the sounds of humans and animals. It’s so that they can attract creatures to come closer, so that the spores they spread in the wind have something to attach itself to. 

Owen: Its roots can grow in anything, so you should be careful not to let them stick onto your clothes or head. 

Akira: Eh!? T-That’s scary…… 

Owen: Haha. Well, there’s no need to pat your clothes so frantically. 

Owen: After all, it’s not often you get the chance to experience the sensation of something sprouting from your body by piercing through the skin, along with a horribly unbearable pain.  

Akira: That’s not reassuring to hear at all…… That said, to be able to mimic sounds, this sure is a marvelous mushroom. 

Owen: As a result of the influence of the miasma of this forest, there are lots of strange plants and animals here. That said, this mushroom originally wasn’t that much of a talker though. 

Owen: It should’ve been capable of nothing more than the likes of ‘So cold’, or ‘I’m starving’, at most. 

Akira: Is that how it is? But just now, it felt as though I was listening to someone’s conversation…… 

Akira: Could it be that, this is due to the calamity as well? 

Owen: Probably. Having received powers from the moon, perhaps it gained the ability to remember longer sentences now. 

Owen: To remember words from those having their so-called ‘blissful dream’ as they die after arriving at this forest with their lives barely hanging. 

====== Card Story: Chapter 2 - Flames To Vanquish Those Thoughts ======

A frosty wind blew across the forest. 

As if awakening from its slumber, the forest was filled with voices of people on the brink of their death. 

A youthful voice: What’s going on? This strange, wondrous feeling... Even though my legs can’t move, it feels as though I could run to any corner of the world….. 

A hoarse voice: Ahh, how comfortable. I’ll take a nap here and get back to working hard again once I wake up. Gotta do it so that the kids get to eat a nice hearty meal…… 

Akira: …… 

Hearing all that, I was at a loss for words and stood there silently.  

Owen: Haha, they’re all just some worthless, trifling dreams. 

Owen: Those people died miserably just like that, without even having such trivial wishes realized. 

Owen curled his beautiful lips upwards into a wry smile, and laughed in amusement.

Owen: It feels like it’s starting to get somewhat interesting. Guess I’ll listen for a while longer.  

Seemingly in a good mood, Owen hummed as he conjured a teapot and chair, and gracefully took a seat. 

Akira: (He’s going to sit back and relax at a moment like this?!) 

Akira: O-Owen. We came here to investigate in the first place, so we’ll need to prepare a report. If there’s anything we can do to resolve this, I’d love it if you could let me know……

Owen: Some mushrooms just got mutated thanks to the Calamity, that’s all. There’s no particular damage to anything either. 

Owen: What more is there to be said?  

Akira: That’s true, but……

*Sound of wind blowing*

Every time a breeze blows, we hear the voices of someone who is about to meet their end. 

Speaking amid their dreams about those wishes that are lost forever… about the fragments remaining in their hearts. 

Akira: ……Umm, Owen, don’t you feel anything when you hear those voices and what they say? 

Owen: I feel happy, and I can’t help but laugh. Because I love people’s agony.  

Owen: The final moments of insects exhausting all their strength is so meaningless and miserable, it’s just truly delightful. 

Akira: I…… feel a little sad when I hear them. 

Akira: Though each of them have their own different circumstances, when I think about how their lives ended in this forest while having a dream that couldn’t be realized…… 

A young voice: Wow, what a beautiful forest…… 

Suddenly, an innocent voice filled my ears. 

Akira: A child’s voice……? 

A young voice: Even though it was so painful and unbearable just a while ago, I don’t feel any pain anywhere now. I'm not coughing anymore, and my body feels so light. 

A young voice: I wonder who brought me here. I have no memories of who it was, but the one who brought me out of that dark and cramped home, has to be a hero……! 

Owen: ……

Akira: (......I wonder if that child rarely went outside? That child hadn’t even had the chance to grow up, and just like that, in this forest…… )

That young voice was so bright and joyful, I could almost imagine just how tender his smile was. 

A young voice: It’s surely someone strong and cool, isn’t it? I wonder if it’s Sir Prince, or perhaps Sir Knight….. Or perhaps a seasoned warrior. 

A young voice: If my body gets better, I’d love to meet them someday. At that time, I need to tell them properly, ‘Thank you for saving me’......

Owen: Haha…… Just like a fool. 

Saying that, a dry laugh escaped his mouth.

====== Card Story: Chapter 3 - Flames To Vanquish Those Thoughts ======

Owen: Humans really are a foolish and naive bunch. 

Owen: No one will help you. All you do is pray and wait to be rescued, it’s no surprise that no one bothers giving you a single glance. 

Owen: Cur memini. 

*Sound of fire burning*

As his cold, indifferent voice chanted the spell, the mushroom that replayed the child’s voice just now started burning voraciously. 

Facing the rising flames, Owen smiled at it mockingly. 

Owen: Dim-witted losers won’t survive. All they’ll become is sustenance for the forest, gone without a single trace left on this world. 

Owen: Without even meeting that hero they dreamed of, too. 

The flames spread, and the entire patch of mushrooms was engulfed by the flames in no time — turning into a shimmering, brilliant scarlet within the heat. 

It was an intense, yet calming sight. The singed mushrooms turned into black clouds of smoke, continuously rising into the sky. 

Akira: (......It’s as if the souls are ascending into heaven.) 

Though I’m sure that wasn’t Owen’s intentions at all. 

But to me, it seemed as though the thoughts of those people that were smouldering within the forest got their burial thanks to his flames. 

(Some time passed in the forest) 

Akira: Looks like the mushrooms are all burnt. ……Huh, Owen, what are you doing? 

Owen: *gnaws*

Owen picked up the burnt mushroom and nonchalantly stuffed it into his mouth. 

Akira: Ehh!? Is that thing safe to eat!? 

Owen: I only ever put edible things in my mouth. You see, this mushroom here becomes sweet and tasty once it’s roasted. 

Owen: If you’re curious, why not give it a try? Even if a human ate it, it probably won’t kill them. 

Akira: I-I see. I think I’ll pass on that….. 

Owen: Hmm okay, whatever. 

Turning away from me, Owen started stuffing his mouth with the mushrooms, savouring each bite of the beautifully roasted fungi. 

*Sound of wind blowing*

Even if the wind blows, no voices could be heard any longer. All that filled the forest was silence. 

Akira: Even if it’s just the natural trait of a mushroom, when you hear the echoes of the voices of people who are long gone, it felt as though their souls were trapped in this place. 

Akira: So that’s why, by setting those flames upon them, it feels as though you’ve helped out a little there, or perhaps I could say, brought some relief. 

Akira: Though perhaps it’s just me getting above myself……  

Owen: That has nothing to do with me. I just returned the forest back to how it should have been, that’s all there is to it. 

Having turned around towards me, Owen threw a mushroom into his mouth and gulped it down his throat loudly. 

Owen: The people who come to this forest are just so preoccupied with themselves, that other people’s voices become mere noise to them. 

Owen: This is the forest of dreams. A place where one has cruel, blissful, selfish dreams about themselves and no one else. 

Owen: Dying while the body and mind is engrossed in a dream… Tormenting these people at their final moments is what I love so much after all. 

Owen spoke on, his tone as if singing a sweet melody, and slowly narrowed his eyes. 

The smile on his face was a cruel one, yet even seemed to harbour a hint of gentleness within it.

====== Card Episode: Seeking That Flavour ======

*Sound of fire burning*

Akira: Huh, Owen. Are you making a bonfire? 

Owen: Something like that. But not for warmth though. 

Akira: Ah, there’s some rougeberries inside the flames….. I see, so it was for roasting them.  

Owen: Sort of. That day, I ate those mushrooms in the Forest of Dreams, remember? The one that tastes sweet and yummy after roasting. 

Owen: I was thinking that maybe there’d be a fruit with a similar taste to that, and tried roasting a few other fruits to see. But somehow, every one of them had a different taste from it. 

Akira: I see…… That mushroom you were talking about, how exactly does it taste like though? 

Owen: Burnt clay. 

Akira: C-Clay……? 

Owen: Yup. It’s sweet and sticky, and sticks to your mouth. But its skin is like some rough, old paper full of scabs, 

Owen: And then, sometimes as I eat it, my throat gets stucked with it, causing me to almost suffocate. 

Akira: (Something so sweet and sticky that you’d suffocate……?)

Akira: ……Ah, I think I got it. I guess it’s probably something similar to roasted potatoes? 

Akira: I go see if there’s still any sweet po…… Nougat potato left in the kitchen. 

Owen: Oh? Looks like you can be useful at times too. Once I’ve roasted that potato, shall I let you have some? 

Akira: Eh, may I? 

Owen: Yup. Since it’s not often we get the chance, I’ll use illusion magic to make its appearance similar to that of that mushroom. 

Owen: Since at that time, you seemed uncomfortable and wouldn’t put it inside your mouth.  

Owen: Shall I add on the voices that we’ve heard so much of at the Forest of Dreams as a freebie? I’ll be happy to reproduce your favourite one for you.  

Akira: J-Just normal roasted potatoes will do……!

====== Home Screen Voice ======

Owen:……The people who escaped into the Forest of Dreams, is just like the me of that time. That’s why, I want to torment them.

======

I love how we got more official confirmation that Owen is a shitposter who will start flaming shit, then grab a cup of tea to sit back and watch the world burn. that's my boy

[communist-hatsunemiku]

i got one mushroom grow bag(the penis envy strain) that is like, it looks like a bag of snow, it is so thoroughly colonized with mycelium. but it's been that way for awhile it seems, i hope nothing is wrong and preventing caps from forming

[karniss-bg3]

Writing prompt! While travelling in the forest Tav and Kar'niss meet a human (probably druid, at your liking) who lives in the hut. The man greets them with surprise, but with no hostility. He is ok with Tav and absolutely fascinated by the drider.

A/N: Switched a few things up as I had an idea in my head. Hope the minor changes still suit what you were after. Thanks for the prompt!

[AO3 Mirror]

***

The first chill of the autumn season had cracked through the summers heat which carried across the realm, inducing change in the landscape. Orange and yellow hues dominated the treetops creating a harvest season ambiance that uplifted the traveling pair while also warning of winter’s steady approach. Kar’niss in particular seemed fascinated by the array of new sights and smells as it was his first time on the surface during such a time. The scents of burning wood wafted on the breeze, drawn from nearby farms who were discarding excess leaves and fallen trees. The crunch of withered foliage beneath their feet followed their every step, the path they traveled surrounded on both sides by thick woodlands that spanned on into forever. Squirrels were heard above them leaping from branch to branch, their cheeks stuffed to the brim with nuts collected from the ground in preparation for the upcoming season of famine. This place was full of life and activity and Kar’niss could focus on little else, his curiosity too great. Tav noticed the drider stopping at various intervals to examine which ever caught his eye, including a collection of red capped mushrooms growing from a dead log.

“It is nice out here, isn’t it?” Tav asked.

Kar’niss stepped back from the edge of the road, turning his body to better face his companion. “Yes. Is there a reason the trees on the surface change like this?” He pointed above his head and then motioned to the ground where many leaves had come to rest.

“It is what they do before winter comes. Their leaves change colors and fall away, leaving the branches barren during the winter months. I assume it is so they won’t break under the added weight of the snow.”

He hummed and craned his head back, his many eyes blinking in unison. “Snow?”

Tav chuckled. “Snow is...frozen water that forms into small flakes and falls from the sky when it is really cold. It’s white, soft and covers the ground.”

“Oh,” Kar’niss crossed his arms, “that sounds unpleasant.”

“It can be. But I imagine we’ll find a town to settle in long before it becomes a problem. Once the frost breaks we can continue our travels.”

Satisfied with the answers, Kar’niss resumed following Tav on the path forward. As the pair rounded the bend in the road they were promptly met with a problem. Ahead of them a wall of winding thorn covered vines stretched between the trees either side of the road. The obstruction seemed to extend a great distance in either direction preventing them from advancing. Kar’niss frowned and took a cautious approach while sliding his sword free from his back.

“A strange growth,” Kar’niss said.

“I don’t see a way around it, either. I wonder where it came from.”

He swung his sword in an effort to cleave into the blockage. While the blade did make a dent in the thick creeping plant it seemed that it was still rather resilient and would not yield. It didn’t stop the frustrated drider from trying again, unleashing a series of strikes against the barbed barricade which did little more than shear off smalls chunks. The wall proved to be immovable.

“You will not break through,” a peculiar voice rumbled behind the pair.

The duo whirled around, startled and on high alert. At first they didn’t spy the source of the voice until they spotted subtle movement in the treeline. Their vision adjusted in the mid-afternoon sunlight, seeing what looked to be a pile of earth with leaves spread over top. Upon further inspection they realized it was not earth but rather an individual, a bizarre one at that. Seated on a patch of grass looked to be a humanoid shrouded by layers of worn cloth. The fabric itself was frayed at the edges, the colors a mixture of muddy brown and faded green. Twigs and autumn leaves were collected on a patch of moss that had grown on the back of their garb shifting their position only when their host moved. A heavy cowl was tucked over their head with an off white deer skull mask protruding from underneath the folds. Atop their head, pushed through the fabric of the cowl, sat a crown of antlers which had a few strings of moss and dirt dangling from the various curved hooks. In the sockets of the macabre mask were an illuminated pair of green orbs acting as eyes, focused and staring at the pair.

Kar’niss scuttled forward and in front of Tav taking on a protective stance. He thrust his sword out to point at the mysterious creature, on high alert. “Who are you?? Did you make this barrier?”

“No,” the stranger began, “I do not know why it is here.” The voice sounded masculine in pitch, a drawn out, breathy monotone that was neither threatening nor friendly; Neutral.

Tav stepped around from behind Kar’niss to get a better look at the new comer. “We need to get through before the frost comes. Do you know another path?”

“None you would care to traverse,” he said.

Both Kar’niss and Tav sighed in frustration, both with their current conundrum and the stranger’s casual response to it. The drider was still on edge, the appearance of this unknown individual a bit off putting to him.

“You didn’t answer me. Who are you?” Kar’niss asked once more.

“I am Valkier.” He shifted enough to lift an arm, his skin ashen in tone and fingers capped with black claws.

“My name is Tav and this is Kar’niss. Do you live around here, Valkier?” Tav asked.

“Yes and no. I’ve come to investigate the barrier. Once that has concluded then I shall depart.”

“Have you learned anything or know when it may be removed?”

Valkier shook his head. “No.”

Tav clamped a palm to their forehead and tapped a foot. They’d then look to Kar’niss with a scowl. “Well this is a problem. The nearest town is half a days walk and where we just came from. Even if we push it we won’t make it before nightfall. It’ll be an uncomfortable experience camping in these temperatures.”

Kar’niss shuffled side to side nervously. “What do we do?”

“If I may offer,” Valkier began, “my home is a short distance that way.” He pointed behind himself. “You may shelter there for the evening if you are so inclined.”

Both Tav and Kar’niss side eyed one another with a wary glance. They didn’t know this man and couldn’t even be sure of what he actually was with his appearance obscured so.

“Without meaning offense, why would you offer two strangers entry into your home? One being a drider no less,” Tav said.

“Most tend to cower when they see me, you aren’t,” Kar’niss added.

Valkier rocked his body from side to side, picking up the gnarled quarter staff that had been resting in his lap. He’d use it to hoist himself up from his seated position, excess dirt and leaves trickling off of his body as he did so. “A drider on the surface is most unusual. In fact, you would be the first I’ve encountered. My reasoning is thus; If you were a danger you would already be dead or imprisoned. It is not as if a drider can easily go unnoticed, especially in towns. I offer my home as an act of kindness. You do not have to accept if you are worried.”

It was a sticky situation for the pair. While wary of Valkier they feared their fate if they camped on the road more. With reluctance and little choice Tav took Kar’niss by the hand and ushered him toward the treeline where their would be host stood.

“Lead the way.”

Valkier nodded and turned to guide them deeper into the forest, away from the familiar road they’d traveled most of that day. The unusual man walked ahead with more of a wobble in his gait, using the quarterstaff as a walking stick. He seemed to be compensating for the weight of the many layers of cloth piled on his frame making it unclear as to what type of build was hidden underneath or even his race. Unsure of how long it’d take to reach their destination Tav opted to fill the silence with a series of burning questions.

“If it’s not rude to ask, what are you?”

“I am Valkier,” he responded simply.

“R-Right but I more mean...what type of creature are you?”

“Unimportant. Know that I am benign and mean you no harm, that is all that matters.”

Kar’niss and Tav side eyed one another, confused but deciding it was best not to press further. Kar’niss had to choose his path through the woodlands carefully to ensure he didn’t get stuck on the way, weaving his large body between trees and over obstacles in their way. The thick layout of the forest began to relent, opening up more as they approached their destination. Soon the trio came upon a vast clearing surrounded on all sides by towering trees. Beams of light filtered into the glade casting light across a sea of tall grass mixed with wildflowers. At the center stood a rustic cottage that was dome in shape, built from wood and mud which made the structure sturdy. Piles of straw capped the roof lined with wooden beams to keep the hay secure. A small brick chimney poked from the right side of the building pumping out thin plumes of smoke, the scent of honey and sage permeating the air. A single, round wooden door stood closed at the front flanked either side by two small windows of the same shape. To say it was cozy was an understatement and it looked as if it had been sitting in this spot for quite sometime.

“Oh it’s beautiful,” Tav whispered.

“Mm thank you. It could use some repairs but it is holding strong,” Valkier said.

As they made their approach Kar’niss shrank once he got a good look at the homes size, particularly the front door. “I don’t think I can fit through that.”

The druid chuckled, the sound coming out in a broken wheeze from beneath the bone mask. “You can.” He lifted his staff and pointed it toward the entrance, waving the wooden rod in slow, tight circles. As he did so the pair witnessed the home expand and outstretch, it’s dimensions increasing before their very eyes. The door increased in height and width until it nearly overtook the front of the home, now more than large enough to accommodate one of Kar’niss’ size. They both gasped in surprise, the drider taking a few steps back with an anxious gait.

“How did you do that?” Kar’niss asked.

“It is my home. It does what I tell it to,” Valkier said. “Come inside.” He waved his staff and the door swung open effortlessly. He waddled his way through leaving it open for his reluctant guests.

“Should we?” Kar’niss asked, looking to Tav.

“Well, we’ve come this far and now I am curious. Be on your guard.”

Tav stepped inside first to survey what awaited them. While the exterior size appeared to increase the interior didn’t look to match, at least at ground level. Directly ahead of Tav was a square wooden table with four chairs made of the same material with intricate swirled designs etched into their backs. To the left sat a compact kitchen with limited counter space and a wood burning stove, a few cabinets attached to the walls above. Hanging over a hand washing basin were strings of dried herbs that likely explained the earthly aroma about this place. To the right of the table was a comfortable arm chair upholstered in forest green fabric. It looked old and well used suggesting it was a spot favored by the druid. It rested in front of a small, stone fireplace which was currently lit by a warm fire that kept the temperature a stark contrast to the chilly outside. In the back corner was a single, solitary bed covered in a nest of quilts piled at the center left in a state of disarray that mirrored the rest of the interior. Books were strewn about haphazardly and potted plants dotted the shelves and every available corner. When Tav focused their gaze upward they’d see the ceiling was impossibly high up and likely caused by the forced expansion. Timber beams crisscrossed over the canopy providing stability.

Kar’niss stepped in behind Tav and like them he marveled at the inside, careful with his steps so as to not knock something over by mistake. “A marvel. You said you came here to investigate the blockage, yes? Has it been here that long?”

Valkier meandered to the stove to put a kettle of water on. “No, I suspect only a day or so.” He waved a hand which prompted the door to close behind Kar’niss.

Tav squinted. “But this house looks like it’s been here for years. Did you find it abandoned and move in or something like that?”

“Something like that,” Valkier said, maintaining his neutral tone.

“If you’re not from here, then where?” Tav asked.

Valkier shook his head and slowly turned around, green orbs within darkened sockets focusing on his guests. “Make yourself comfortable then we might chat.”

Tav exhaled and pulled out one of the wooden chairs to take a seat. They looked to Kar’niss who obviously couldn’t fit. Before either could voice their concern Valkier held up a hand.

“One moment.”

His clawed fingers curled then outstretched in the direction of the floor beneath Kar’niss’ wide legs. Both of them felt a mild tremor, the floorboards creaking audibly as they splintered and crackled. From beneath a series of vines stirred but unlike the ones blocking the road these didn’t carry thorns. They slithered beneath the driders body which did startle him. Having little room to back up he could do no more than watch as they bunched together to form a solid surface beneath his body, raising up to conform to his unusual shape. When the movement stopped Tav realized that Valkier had made Kar’niss a seat of sorts, the back cradling his bulbous abdomen while the front curled up to support his humanoid torso. It appeared almost like a wavy, green slide from the side point of view and it conformed to him perfectly. More so, Kar’niss was able to get up and move away without trouble if he so chose.

“There, that should do,” Valkier said.

Tav smiled a little while Kar’niss clutched his arms to his chest, still a little confused about the entire affair. “It looks comfortable at least,” Tav said.

“A bit...yes.” Kar’niss said.

Valkier approached the table with three mugs in hand, steam rising from each. He’d place them down and slide two to his guests. “Now then, I believe it is my turn to ask some questions.” Valkier steadily lowered himself into a seat, clasping the mug in his palms to warm them. “Where is it you’ve come from?”

Tav eyed Valkier from across the table, lifting their mug to take a cautious sip of the hot liquid within. It had a distinct floral taste to it with a mild bite on the tongue, a tea of some sort they concluded. “Baldur’s gate.”

“Ahhh Baldur’s Gate, a city recently under siege to my understanding. Mind flayers and the very elder brain itself descended upon the nation stirring up chaos. Were you caught in the middle?” Valkier asked.

The drider took a sniff of the concoction in the cup and scrunched his nose, finding it too potent for his liking. He’d roll his shoulders still a bit tense but trying to follow Tav’s lead. “In the top, the middle and the bottom. We were the ones who felled the beast.” Kar’niss murmured.

The green orbs hovering in the sockets expanded in size, as if widening from such news. “You are the heroes of Faerun? My, what an honor it is to host such esteemed guests. If I had known I’d be receiving such legendary company I would’ve taken the effort to tidy up.”

Tav smiled and shook their head. “No need, we’re just grateful you welcomed us at all. We would’ve had a hard time of it if we had to camp outside overnight.”

Valkier hummed, a funny sound that reverberated within his throat as he did so. “I am curious how a drider not only came to be on the surface but somehow aided in saving the world as we know it. I must say you are a delight to look at, Kar’niss. Your very form speaks to me.”

He’d jerk his head back with some surprise, the drider’s expression twisting to mirror his clear confusion. His pedipalps clicked against the surface of the chair of vines he sat upon. “How does the way I look speak to you?”

“You have a haunting beauty. Your body tells a story, one of tragedy and struggle. I know little about the drow, I admit. But I have taken to studying them since my arrival. If you are here traveling by your own free will it means you’ve broken the chains that bind. It’s an admirable feat and one you should be proud of.”

“I try not to think about what it’s taken me to get here,” Kar’niss stated, his voice quiet, “but I do acknowledge the road has been long. I hope you don’t intend to gawk at me the entire time we’re here.”

Valkier snorted, his fingertips tapping in clean succession along the side of his mug. “If by gawk you mean stare for hours on end, then no. But if you would humor me I would enjoy the chance to speak to you on a more personal level. It is not everyday you meet a drider much less one that isn’t hostile from the start. And a hero of the realm, besides! Any information I wish to gather will be non-intrusive if that helps.”

He tensed, sinking deeper into the chair as if trying to hide away. He looked to Tav, the only one he trusted in this situation. While he said nothing his gaze suggested he was searching for their approval more than anyone.

“It’s your choice, Kar’niss. If his questions or requests make you uncomfortable then you can turn him down. I’ll be here the entire time.” Tav reached over and rested a hand on one pedipalp, issuing a gentle squeeze to put him at ease.

He seemed to think it over, his gaze darting between Tav and Valkier in contemplation. Choice was still a new concept to him and one he had trouble coming to terms with, the very idea that he could say something and it would be honored. His arms crossed before he issued a single nod. “Very well. I will answer what I am able but no more than that.”

Valkier held up his hands. “That is all I could ask for.”

The remainder of the afternoon was spent with Valkier doing precisely that. With a journal in hand he would ask a series of questions about Kar’niss and his origins, jotting down the pertinent information as it was provided. Tav sat by and watched, paying particular attention to Kar’niss and his overall comfort levels. As promised much of what he asked was non-intrusive. All but one.

“How did you come to be a drider?” Valkier asked.

A silence fell over the room, a budding tension rising in the air. Tav frowned and looked to Kar’niss who shrank in his make shift seat, his legs clicking at the ground either side. Strange as Valkier may have been he wasn’t oblivious to the change in the atmosphere.

“If it is too much you don’t have to answer,” Valkier murmured.

Kar’niss took in a slow inhale of breath, his claw tips picking at the winding vines he was perched upon. “Not...too much, sensitive.” He swallowed the lump that formed in his throat, hesitation written all over his features. Tav reached to take Kar’niss’ hand into their own, offering a gentle squeeze to help ease his anxiety. After a pause he nodded to affirm to himself and continued. “I would rather not recount that.”

“Very well. Forgive the offense.”

The line of questioning continued, topics varying from the culture of the Underdark to the travels Kar’niss and Tav went on to bring them to this point. The exchange was relatively pleasant and without incident. As evening morphed into night everyone at the table felt the creep of exhaustion overtake them.

“Where is it we should rest?” Kar’niss asked.

“I don’t have much room but I can provide blankets and you may rest near the fireplace. You are free to make a web in the rafters if you so choose. I can find uses for the silk you leave behind.”

Tav smiled and nodded. “That sounds perfect, thank you.”

Kar’niss took the given permission seriously. He climbed the wall and began weaving a web from one side of the home to the next until a thick veil of silk hung above the ground floor like a sticky tarp. The lines were secure and strong ensuring both he and Tav could rest comfortably. “It is done,” he’d call down to his companion.

Tav wandered over to Valkier. “Thank you again for allowing us to stay. I don’t know where we’ll go tomorrow if the road hasn’t cleared but this kindness did save us some trouble.”

“Of course, think nothing of it. I am certain tomorrow will yield you good fortune,” Valkier said.

Kar’niss climbed down far enough to scoop Tav up into his arms, carrying them up into the nest he had built for them both. Tav’s sleeping bag rested on a curved incline of webbing where they could sleep without getting stuck on the adhesive strands. Kar’niss placed them upon it letting them climb in and get comfortable. He then lowered himself and took advantage of the raised webbing so he could lay his torso over top, his preferred method of snuggling with his companion. His arms and pedipalps wrapped around them while his head settled on their shoulder. The pair saw Valkier climbing into his bed below but rather than lay down he instead crawled into the mountain of quilts situated at the center. Sitting cross legged he’d wrap himself in the pile until only his antlers stuck out, his own comfortable cocoon acting as a hideaway spot.

“He’s a bit unusual, isn’t he?” Tav whispered.

“Mm, a bit. So are we, I suppose,” Kar’niss murmured in return.

“True,” Tav chuckled. They ran their fingers through Kar’niss’ long white locks with one hand while stroking his back with the other, taking the moment to revel in each others company. A thought dawned on them considering the lengthy discussion they’d had with the druid. “When you told me why you were turned into a drider you mentioned you changed your name. If I may ask, what was your name before?”

The drider lifted his head to look at Tav, his chin resting on their collar bone. “My mother named me Rhyltran.”

“Rhyltran? What does it mean?”

“Moon weaver,” Kar’niss explained. “She said my skin looked as if it was woven from the very fabric of the moon itself.”

Tav cupped the side of his face. “Moon weaver, I rather like it. Do you miss that name?”

He shook his head. “No. It belongs to a man who doesn’t exist anymore. I...had considered changing my name again after the battle in Baldur’s Gate, a way to mark a new era for myself. But you seemed attached to the name Kar’niss so I thought better of it.”

Tav blinked with surprise, their head cocking to one side. “Oh? What name did you have in mind?”

“Selds’yrr.” He’d make eye contact with Tav and smile. “It means sworn protector.”

Tav sucked in a gentle breath, their heart swelling within the depths of their chest. They’d lean in to bump nose to nose with their dear drider. “It suits you. No matter the name you take you’ll always be the man I grew to love.”

The pair shared a kiss, their lips coming together in a tight seal. They’d hold one another until they drifted off for much needed rest, warm and cozy in their hosts home.

The night passed and morning would come. The pair were greeted by the steady chirp of birds outside the home as well as the rustling of leaves tussled by autumn winds. Tav rose first, peering down from the webbing to greet Valkier. To their surprise the druid was no where to be seen having long since abandoned their quilt pile.

“Strange.” Tav gave Kar’niss a gentle shake which prompted a groan of disapproval from the drider. He was very comfortable in his position over Tav, burying his face deeper into their neck to avoid being forced to move. “Valkier is gone,” Tav said.

With reluctance, Kar’niss would skitter back and helped Tav rise from the bedroll. “Then we should seek him out.” He’d let Tav climb onto his back while peeling the bedroll from the webbing, rolling it up to store away among their things.

After retreating from the rafters they moved to the front door, opening it to peek out into the clearing. There they’d spot Valkier, seated in the middle of the glade where the morning light shone brightest. He basked in the rays, his head craned in such a manner that it appeared he was staring skyward. Tav wandered outside to approach him, looking on with curiosity.

“Morning, Valkier. I hope you slept well. The druid gradually craned his head to look up at Tav, those swirling green orbs enlarging in their sockets as if sparking awake. “I did. I trust you both did as well.” That monotone voice ever present.

“Yes, quite well in fact. Now we must face the troublesome task of working out where we’re heading. I assume the vine barrier still stands,” Tav said.

He shook his head. “No, it has fallen. The way is now clear.”

“What?” Tav squinted and looked to Kar’niss, confused. “How? That wall was massive. It couldn’t just...up and disappear.”

“It seems it has. Some questions are better left unanswered.” Valkier rocked side to side to get the momentum needed to rise to his feet. With quarterstaff in hand he would turn to face the pair. He lifted a satchel that he had packed at his side, handing it to Tav. “For your journey.” They took the pack and peered inside. A collection of food and small potions were contained within, mostly cheese, bread and smoked meats. “Oh this is very generous. Thank you, Valkier.”

“Of course. Thank you for the company, it is so rare to have guests. You have a long road ahead and time to make up. Do not let me keep you.”

“You’re right, we are behind. We appreciate your hospitality. Maybe we’ll meet again?”

Valkier rolled his shoulders beneath his many layers. “Perhaps. Have a safe journey.”

Tav motioned for Kar’niss to follow once they had collected their things. Valkier stepped forward to stop the drider, at least for a moment. “I won’t forget what you’ve told me. Hard as life may have been it seems you’ve been gifted a new start. I sense good things in your future, Kar’niss. Find peace in that.”

A moment of quiet fell between the pair as they looked at one another. Kar’niss couldn’t explain why but he felt a sensation of calm wash over him, from one end to the other. “Thank you,” he said, his eyes locked on the verdant orbs ahead of him. He’d step away to follow Tav, leaving Valkier standing firm in the middle of the clearing. A gust of wind tossed a flurry of fallen leaves across the landscape, fussing the branches of the many trees surrounding them on all sides.

Just as they approached the treeline ready to depart, Kar’niss turned to look back only to startle himself in the process. “Tav, look!”

Tav turned to do just that, their eyes widening once they realized what had surprised the drider so. The cozy home had disappeared from sight along with any evidence the area had been occupied at any point. Only an empty glade remained, unspoiled and serene. “He’s gone.”

Flabbergasted and a little unsettled they decided to move on, not wishing to incur the ire of forces unknown should they linger. Both were quiet once they found the road and resumed their travels, pensive and wondering what it is fate had caused them to meet. When they reached the point in the road where they were blocked before they saw the vine wall had vanished just as Valkier said. The way was clear and bright, silently inviting them to travel onward. Tav lead the way following the road around the bend which led them out of the forest and into a mountain pass. The rocky cliff side was steep on the right and open on the left, revealing a vast landscape down below. They knew if they slipped off it was likely the end of their journey so they stuck close to the wall instead.

Not far into the new territory they spotted activity up ahead. A series of ox drawn carriages appeared to be hauling large rocks and boulders in the direction they were heading. A crew of half orcs and tamed ogres were hard at work chipping away at a pile of stones that were scattered across the road. One of the half orcs turned to see the approaching pair and immediately went into high alert.

“DRIDER!”

This prompted all to shift their focus from the clean-up efforts to preparing for a fight, weapons drawn and formations taken. Tav jogged ahead of Kar’niss and held up their hands defensively.

“He’s with me, he’s friendly! We’re no threat. We’re just looking for passage,” Tav called out. Kar’niss tensed behind Tav at the ready. It wasn’t the first time his presence stirred up conflict and he knew it wouldn’t be the last.

The group ahead appeared wary, eyeballing the duo with great scrutiny. “What’s your business?”

“We’re just heading to the next town over. A wall of vines blocked our path from the forest but it has cleared.”

The foreman of the crew, a large half orc with dark green skin and black hair tamed into a loose ponytail, approached with mallet in hand. “Wall of vines? Not sure what you’re talking about. We came that way last night, wasn’t anything there.”

Tav and Kar’niss glanced at one another, the drider shuffling side to side. “What happened here?” He asked.

“Rock slide, took out the entire road. We’ve been clearing it for hours, almost free.”

Tav rubbed the back of their neck. “A rock slide? About when did this happen?”

“Ehh our sources say sometime mid-afternoon yesterday. Took out a caravan of poachers, bloody mess that was.”

A silence fell over the pair. Tav turned to look up at their lover. “That was about the time we reached the wall of vines. If we had been caught up in it—“

“We would’ve been killed,” Kar’niss interjected.

A chill ran down their spines, both peering over their shoulders in unison to look back at the way they had come. The silence between them was deafening while trying to rationalize events over the last day. Kar’niss would be the one to break the silence, recalling something their host had said before their departure.

“Some questions are better left unanswered.”

The drider lowered himself to the ground, a sign that he desired Tav to climb on his back. They did exactly that, straddling behind his back with their arms looped around his waist. Once Tav was secure he’d lift himself up and resume marching the path forward, weaving between the carts and wary road workers.

This would be a tale the pair often reminisced about in the future wondering who the stranger in the woods really was. While they’d never see him again his words of encouragement stuck with Kar’niss. He did find that peace and oh so much more with his beloved Tav by his side, a new purpose that he held onto until the end of his days.

The sworn protector for the hero of Baldur’s Gate.

[lynxindisguise]

Okay, but Lynx. I would pay good money to see Remus on magic mushrooms. I can just picture him having a wild trip and Sirius being so confused because he's pretty positive he just ate normal snow cap mushrooms....why is acting like that??

do you know, I actually think remus would be really chill on mushrooms? like he'd be an absolute disaster on acid, anxiety city, is definitely convinced he's turned into a wolf permanently and is now on all fours, attempting to navigate his new life in the forest (he's just in his bedroom). and on mdma he's expressing so many repressed feelings and he's sobbing the entire time but also so happy about it?

but on mushrooms he's just laying in the grass and making friends with the clouds and petting sirius's hair because oh my god it is the softest thing in the world how is his hair so soft? and he's having some really deep insights about the way his insecurities and self-sabotaging tendencies have impacted his life (but in a calm, detached sort of way), and sirius is deeply confused but he doesn't want to jinx it, y'know?

[cienie-isengardu]

Cracked Mirror of Black, Cold Soul [Chapter 2]

Author notes: Continuation of this, formely posted just as "MK1 Fanfiction".

I'm writing it as Shang Tsung & Bi-Han's sort of friendship but if anyone like it as Bi-Han/Shang Tsung then that's great too. Also, nothing dark/graphic so far, but maybe in future I will go more into Shang Tsung's experiments, poverty and probably a bit depression. Just saying in advance as I'm aware my idea of "not graphic" may vary from other people's.

No enemy has come that day or another nor the next week. Shang Tsung fell back into his routine - studying, training, experimenting, once in a while getting the needed supplies, and then studying more, training more, creating more devious traps to apparently keep a certain cryomancer amused. The books and scrolls kept disappearing and showing up a few days later, even if he did not see Sub-Zero for weeks. 

Sometimes there was a note attached to returned volumes. Usually short messages, about Li Mei’s search for him or General Shao’s impatience or a new bounty on their heads or to avoid a specific place at certain times. He read the notes, mesmerized its contents, then burned the paper to not leave any unnecessary loose ends if he ever was forced to abbadon the fortress in a hurry.  

Sometimes the note said trivial things. Like under any circumstances do not eat those mushrooms you moron! - and indeed the mushrooms he found in a nearby field disappeared without a trace from his kitchen. Which was truly a shame, for if those truly were toxic he could at least study them to make a new poison or maybe even magic potion or two. More often than not though the message was clean up the mess! which did not amuse him at all. A bit of blood here and there and a misplaced organ or two and everyone was a critic these days. Like it was his fault the creative process at times got messy. No genius was even truly understood and in such moments he did miss Damashi, her kind hand on his back, the melodic voice encouraging him to transcend the boundaries of already possessed knowledge.

Sub-Zero sounded more like a mother hen than a deadly warrior and Shang Tsung for sure did not need anyone mothering him. He was a grown up man, he survived living in Outworld’s wild, uncaring hinterlands alone for hundredth of years, he did not need anyone’s help nor care. It was a matter of pride but also the bitter taste of betrayal that held him back from trusting anyone ever again.

He left his own notes then.

Stop fussing, I knew the mushrooms were poisonous, even though he had no idea, as he had never heard of poisonous mushrooms before. There were plenty of dangerous places in Outworld yet not many uneatable things to worry about. And sure, the fungus looked funny, with nice red caps and pretty white dots, like snow that embellished blood pool, which was specifically a reason why he picked it up in the first place. But why should he not, if the island was part of the Edenia realm and the mainland not so far away? The climatic zone was correct, the ruins were covered with Edenian letters even if the words made little sense to him. As far as he managed to check, he did not find any unusual plants here, no new animal species. Up to this moment, he had no reason to worry about flora and fauna surrounding him as nothing stood out… well, maybe beside the one white pigeon that so eagerly cooed at the sight of him and as it turned out, the funny mushrooms he found by accident and collected on impulse. The sense of danger did not cross his mind and if not Sub-Zero’s warning, he would eat the mushrooms soon. Maybe the edenian blood would neutralize the toxins that Earthrealmer was so concerned about, or maybe not. Now, he had no means to test it one way or another. Begrudgingly he accepted that Lin Kuei potentially saved, if not his life from food poisoning then at least his dignity, but the man did not need to know that.

The note disappeared the day he wrote it, alongside a few scrolls. A week later the paper showed up in the same spot with additional DID YOU?, and even the carefully calligraphed few edenian letters sneered at him mockingly. The rush of blood burned his cheeks and he did not need the mirror to know how red his face was. Out of anger, pure anger, not embarrassment, he told himself firmly while the note turned into ash in his hand. He wanted to burn much more and he would do so, if not the book on which note was left.

Shang Tsung stared at the thick book with a deeply red cover, pondering whether he should open it and bear the reason why the annoying Earthrealm left it there or just fed the flames of hearth with that blasted thing. It didn't matter what was inside the book, only how to not lose the weird game they played for weeks, with no rules and no clear idea who was actually winning. Losing never sat well with him and yet he couldn’t help himself than take a chance, any chance, to prove how better, smarter he was compared to others. And Sub-Zero clearly was exploiting that weakness, slowly and deliberately with each little note, each little sharp remark and additional subtext hidden in black ink, in elegant shape of letter. 

The man mocked him and challenged and Shang Tsung loved that game and cursed it in the same breath. The island was a wonderful sanctuary as much as a lonely, dark place and Sub-Zero, whatever the man knew or not, brought so needed entertainment to keep the sorcerer from going mad. Not that Shang Tsung would ever admit that aloud but fact remained a fact, whether he liked it or not.

The book was definitely not made in Outworld. It was not even a matter of unfamiliar letters but the whole texture of deeply red cover and snowy-white pages inside. Once opened, it smelled of ink but not like the yellowed, hand-written books did. To his own surprise, the smell reminded him of freshness, something new and still unspoiled, so it couldn’t be a second-handed volume either. This pleased him, more than it should. Before Damashi walked into his life, he rarely could afford to buy good quality items; the tailored robes and beautifully illustrated books were always out of his reach. How many times he stared at the richness of colors, how many times inhaled the storm of unique, unknown smells when he passed the small town’s market only to turn away from each stall? When a person needed to choose between food or new shoes for he could afford only one, it was no choice at all. The basic needs always processed anything frivolous, for luxury was nothing more than just a sweet dream to lull the poorest to sleep and torment them by day. 

Shang Tsung now had the money and means to spoil himself with the best; the finest food and sweetest wine, the most soft fabrics and tailored robes, the expansive magic ingredients he dreamed of having as a child. So of course fate spit into his face, as now the gold meant nothing. Only the power he held mattered. The same power now threatened by Fire Lord and Empress Mileena and even by his maybe-still-maybe-not allies.

A warmth spread through his cold, bitter soul at the mere thought the book was brand new and brought specially for him. Even if Sub-Zero did so only to scoff at him, to mock, he still went with the finest gift and not some rubbish. The gesture touched him, surprisingly deeply. Not many people these days bothered to spoil him a bit here and there.

Encouraged by the treacherous feeling, he opened the book on the first page and slowly started examining its content. He couldn’t read it though, as Damashi taught him only how to speak Earthrealm’s most common languages - the one similar to Edenian and the so-called English that tasted weird on his tongue whenever he was forced to use it. Damashi promised soon it would be irrelevant knowledge anyway, so he did not bother learning the unfamiliar letters. Like all other promises of hers, this one too turned out to be a false prophecy. With each passing day, the choking realization hurt a bit less. Each passing day also proved how much she witholded and weakened him on purpose, how much he needed to learn all those supposedly meaningless little things anyway.

Looking back, how he admired the mysterious woman, how he desired her praise and smile, was such a laughable memory. What an ally she turned out to be! And yet, Damashi taught him everything he knew about true magic and above all else, the final lesson will forever stay with him: to never trust anyone, especially those kind to him.

But… Sub-Zero wasn’t necessarily nice to him and he took as much as he gave, considering the rate at which books and precious scrolls disappeared all the time. There was no promise of great power, no sweet praise to make Shang Tsung starve for more attention. The man barely interacted with him in person, more interested in knowledge hidden between yellow pages than what Shang Tsung could do for him. A fair deal, a secret for secret, as apparently Sub-Zero liked to collect those, even the most trivial ones and he did bring a lot of important news to the sorcerer in exchange. 

It wasn’t a kindness, Shang Tsung hummed to himself, just the fairest deal he ever made. 

And who could know where this little deal will take them in future? Honestly has never been his forte while Lin Kuei Grandmaster was as straightforward as a killer could be anyway. And yet so far they balanced well between a little sweet lie here and brutal truth there. No matter how many times he asked, Sub-Zero did not reveal how he found the island nor how he got in and out of there, the same as Shang Tsung never spoke about his experiments done in the laboratory. They just accepted the unspoken agreement as it was, for now at least, and he cherished the weird comfort of having someone around while also not being directly questioned with the endless list of why, when, if.

The book felt heavy in his hand - heavier than it had right to be for with offered knowledge came a pitiful hope.

Maybe Sub-Zero could, if not outright teach, then at least help him to learn Earthrealm letters… if the words found a way to slip through the tight throat and clenched teeth. Asking for help was, in his experience, a sign of weakness he couldn’t afford. Yet he couldn’t afford to stay ignorant either, and the beautiful book held in hands tempted with promises of great knowledge - if he could read it.

Not for the first time he wondered why Sub-Zero wrote all the little notes left for Shang Tsung in the sorcerer’s own language. After the first time seeing the familiar letters of his native dialect in elegant yet unknown handwriting, he figured out that Lin Kuei already checked out his background and gathered all that was out there to learn from; to steal secrets and maybe even blackmail him if needed. Shang Tsung was not concerned about it, as there was not much to collect. A pitiful life of a lone salesman left little to remember about in the minds of common folks. Even if Lin Kuei managed to track down his former clients, those naive, desperate fools from all Outworld hinterlands, all they would learn was the obvious truth: the old-him was a fraud, a cheater, a loser never loved or missed even by his own folks.

Lin Kuei could learn more from his time at Sindel’s court, however Empress Mileena waged war on them. Not that it stopped Sub-Zero and his men from slipping into capitol, in her own palace, but some secrets still were out of their reach, at least for now. 

The only question left was if Sub-Zero knew the sorcerer couldn’t read Earthrealm’s letters and indulge Shang Tsung out of pragmatism? Or was that matter of courtesy, some good manners that mattered to Grandmaster enough to bother? The sorcerer did not like the uncertainty but he couldn’t ask, not yet, for asking meant admitting great lacking in his worldly education. Even worse, admitting the Lin Kuei Grandmaster - anyone - was better than him, and it didn’t matter how trivial such superiority was. 

Shang Tsung could bear Royal Family and Liu Kang’s Champions mockery and hate without blinking an eye, but he would faster swallow his own tongue than allow his maybe-maybe-not ally to think he was the lesser one in their partnership.

But why Grandmaster didn’t just write the next messages in English or any other Earthrealm’s language to test Shang Tsung and then to mock his illiteracy? Why not push and push, until he couldn’t lie anymore and needed to admit defeat? Why did the man spared him the humiliation when even his own, godly-self had no mercy?

It was the riddle that bothered Shang Tsung the most. Not the uncertainty itself, but faint yet no less warm hope that, despite bitter memories, filled his cold, black soul. 

Kindness was a dangerous, treachery tool that could hurt much more than open mockery. He did not want to feel that pain ever again. And yet, like a fool he was, Shang Tsung craved it more than the finest food or wine. To be acknowledged as something more than just a pitiful, poor copy of another, greater sorcerer - to be treated like his own entity worth someone’s time and effort. 

He craved it and how could he not, when the book, though definitely of Earthrealm origin, didn’t feel like a cruel joke? 

Yes, he could not read it, as the letters were unfamiliar, but there was a mark in each corner and, as he guessed, the skull placed there meant he was not allowed to eat the mushroom present on the page. Yes, he could not learn the secrets hidden between letters, but each page had its own stunning illustration. The pictures were so realistic, like he was looking at mushrooms just found in the forest or an open field. He had no idea what magic it was, but the illustrations were so gorgeous and bright with colors he had never seen in any Outworld book before. It needed to be magic, for those couldn’t be drawn, as the texture of the paper was... slippery under his fingers, but in a nice way.

The book was only about mushrooms, and yet each new page made his blood rush faster through the veins, heart beating strongly. When did he feel so good holding a book last time? He could not remember.

(A lie. He did remember. It was the same excitement he felt when Damashi for the first time showed him an old volume about elements to explain what magic is, how to draw it from the world around. It was also the first time she mentioned cryomancers, that they were real people and not some demons from old, almost forgotten legends. When he asked, intimidated by his own boldness, if he would have a chance to meet any, Damashi laughed, a sparkling laugh full of approval that he fell head over heels in love with. She promised he will, soon, and it was one of few promises she kept.)

Somehow halfway through the book, the red capped, speckled with white dots mushroom proudly showed up on page. Oh, he knew that one pretty well now, even if he had no idea how Earthrealm’s fungus got so far away from its native environment... But that thought faded right away, as the thing that held all his attention now was a small note stuck to the paper under the illustration. The elegant, familiar letter said ARE YOU STILL MAD? 

Yes, he wanted to say, to write it back on paper and stick to their usual place for notes. But the treacherous chuckle broke free before he could do any of it. To know how well Sub-Zero knew him despite barely talking to each other should freeze his blood. Yet all he felt was the weird warmness. Cryomancer should not make one feel cozy, not when a mere hour ago the bastard mockingly questioned his knowledge.

Was that… apology? 

No, it didn’t feel like that. For apology meant regretting and he still wasn’t sure if the man was capable of feeling guilt. Anger? Yes. Excitement at a challenge? Definitely. Regrets? Even if so, Shang Tsung did not notice that and he was usually good at exploiting such weakness in people around him. 

Maybe it was just cryomancer’s way to… well, Shang Tsung had no idea. It made him feel better though. So no, he was not mad anymore even if he probably should be at least annoyed.  

He knew though from on, whenever he would see the red-capped mushroom, he would always think about this book, the little note and one cryomancer that made him laugh despite himself. 

The little skull in the corner stared at him all-knowing. Thoughtlessly, he touched it with his finger, enjoying the cold, slippery feeling of paper. He liked skulls, always had. Maybe he should figure out how to reshape his magic blasts to resemble the skulls? Wouldn’t that be something unique, just his and only his?

Suddenly, the book was a thousand ways better than it was already. What else could Earthrealm offer him? What secrets and inspiration was there to seek and use for his gain? 

He grinned, all sharp teeths and gleam in eye. Maybe, if he played their little game well or bargained enough, Sub-Zero could bring him a similar quality atlas but for Earthrealmers’ anatomy? All he needed was the stunning, colorful illustrations and for sure he could figure out everything else on his own. He always wanted to study their enemy’s anatomy but sadly Liu Kang’s pets ran away and trashed his laboratory along the way.

“Are you again thinking about murdering Liu Kang’s Champions?” 

If there was one thing about Sub-Zero that annoyed Shang Tsung more than the man’s cold, rude way of speaking, it was the Lin Kuei habit of sneaking on him. It wasn’t annoying just because Sub-Zero caught him doing things that spoil his carefully cultivated image of a devious and powerful sorcerer - like smiling because of book he can’t even read or returning to fortress all wet and miserable when catched by heavy rain or his not best morning moments when disheveled and still sleepy he wanders through the corridors. No, the worst part was how easily the man walked the shadows, like the darkness was his to command. 

There was something terrible off about that, even if he couldn’t point down why. 

“Maybe” Shang Tsung answered with a bright smile plastered on his face. No reason in admitting to the man how correctly he read his thoughts. Small victory was still a victory and if he was not the winner, he did not like it at all. 

Sub-Zero’s left eyebrow rose up, but the man did not comment nor asked about the book in the sorcerer's hands. So their little correspondence about a deadly mushroom was a closed up matter and not worth dwelling on. For now. 

Since he rarely had a chance to see his maybe-yes-maybe-not ally these days, Shang Tsung looked him over from head to toe. The man had no visible new scars, nothing to indicate an injury or that he was in any fight at all - even if the sorcerer knew from others that Sub-Zero’s brothers, those pathetic idealists, looked out for him and hunted Lin Kuei like mad dogs. So far to no avail, what pleased him greatly. Cryomancer was playing a dangerous game of cat and mouse, and his foolish brothers still did not figure out who had an upper hand in that strife. 

What however didn’t please Shang Tsung, was the bag on the cryomancer’s back. Full of his books. He knew the man was borrowing his precious volumes from the first day Sub-Zero showed up in his new home, but to see him actually taking out the entire stack at once? That was something new.

The saddest thing about the books collected here was their amount. As much as Shang Tsung hated to admit it, for months he barely managed to look through the shelves in his laboratory and there were more rooms, bigger rooms, from the floor to the ceiling, from one wall to another filled with books and scrolls. He had no idea what Sub-Zero was carrying in his bag this time, and even less what the man appropriated already. There was no point in pretending otherwise, as both knew well there were too many books to keep a track on all of them. A truly bothersome problem that cryomancer exploited without a grain of regret. 

Like always, the bastard ignored his outraged face, then adjusted his bag and walked away without even saying a goodbye or fuck you. The nerve of this man knew no bounds. 

“If you have time to steal my precious books then you could at least bring me something nice to eat!”, he shouted after the man before Sub-Zero disappeared in the shadows enveloping the cold corridor. Not because it could change anything but to have at least the last word.

Out of the darkness flew something small. He catched it without thinking, all reflex and curiosity. It was an apple, red and fresh, definitely not plucked from a tree on the island. Cold to the touch but not cold enough to frostbite his fingers. 

On one side bitten.

He should be mad at Sub-Zero, and yet the laugh filled his lungs. Well, at least the bastard did not ignore him completely. 

It was indeed a great progress.

(In the deepest part of the soul, where bitterness lingered like venom, Damashi’s voice mocked him how weak he was, how needy to cling to cold, uncaring Sub-Zero. How stupid to think anyone could bother to deal with him out of sympathy and not to use him like the pitiful tool he was. How despite everything, Shang Tsung learned nothing.

The bitterness choked him whenever he read left by Lin Kuei Grandmaster notes, whenever the man warned him about danger awaiting beyond the island’s boundaries or complained about the mess, even now, when the beautiful, deeply red covered book weighed in his hands. It was hard to ignore Damashi’s voice when it sounded like his own. But a snake should not choke on its own venom, shouldn’t he?)

Author notes#2:

Like the last time, it is mainly my character study of Shang Tsung and I'm on purpose not writing him how I would normally write one from previous timelines. I enjoy to explore how Damashi and her betrayal had a great impact on him. He is the "in progress" version, not yet the savvy, brilliant sorcerer but trying hard to be seen like that. Bi-Han so far is there mainly for the books XD

I also like to imagine there is some connection between Edenian language and one of Chinese dialect, while English and its letters is totally something new for Shang Tsung. Just solely to avoid everyone speak the same language despite living in different realms. Lin Kuei were taught Outworld language(s) so they could do the dirty job better. Hopefully I did not bore you too much.

This part was about the mushroom note. Next one should be about the mess called Shang Tsung's laboratory :)

[vioshortforviolence]

Minish Variants

So I had a thought: What if the Minish looked different depending on where they live, based on different rodent and rodent-like species?

I mean, we already have Forest/Town Minish, and Mountain Minish, how about Tropical or Desert? Snowy?

Forest & Town: Wood or Deer Mouse

The "default", and most common, Minish variant.

In Minish Cap, the Town Minish are just Forest Minish that decided to move into town, so it would make sense for them to be the same variant; but if they were to be different, I suppose Town Minish could be House or Fancy Mice.

Plains/Grasslands: Striped Grass Mouse

The second most common variant.

These Minish would have either a single dark stripe running down their back, or many light and dark stripes.

Desert: Jerboa and/or Grasshopper Mouse

Jerboas are the funny looking ones with long legs, ears, and a long, tufted tail. They usually move by hopping around and can even run up to 15 mph (24 km/h)!

Also, fun fact: The grasshopper mouse howls (yes like a wolf) and is carnivorous! 😌

Snowy: Lemming (Tundra Mouse)

These Minish would have long fur and live in large tunnel systems under the snow.

Or maybe they'd live in cute little log (stick?) cabins 🥺

Mountain: Yellow-rumped Leaf-eared Mouse or Pika

In Minish Cap, the Mountain Minish we meet are actually just Forest Minish that moved into Mt. Crenel, but if they were to be different, I suppose they could be the yellow-rumped leaf-eared mouse.

These mice in particular have been found more than 20,000ft above sea level, on the summit of the Llullaillaco volcano!

Another option would be the Pika (which isn't actually a rodent, but is instead a lagomorph) as they also live in the mountains.

A defining trait of the Pika is their various calls/songs, which would fit the Mountain Minish's tendency to sing the "Ting Tong" song.

Tropical Rainforest: Feathertail and/or Sugar Glider

Though not rodents (they're marsupials), glider Minish would be cute! Unlike the Forest Minish, who live in mushroom houses on the forest floor, these Minish would live up high, in the tallest trees.

Aquatic: Water-rat (Rakali)

These Minish would be semi-aquatic, with partially-webbed hind legs and waterproof fur. They would also be the best swimmers out of all the Minish variants.

...and mostly carnivorous, with a focus on aquatic animals. That too.

[boymanmaletheshequel]

As a witch of the Pacific Northwest, the beautiful realm of fog and rain, of humid summers and snowy winters, you’ll notice my gods have much to do with the home I’ve grown up in, and the way it’s grown inside of me, like moss in the crook of a Douglass fir… allow me to sing you a song, a love letter perhaps, to the most beautiful place on earth, and the deities who give it worth.

Poseidon

The Salish sea, it’s emerald green waters, breaching whales, and curling, reaching Madrones, beaches of sand and stone, littered with driftwood, beach roses, and colorful chips of beach glass… the waters are frigid, some of the harshest in the world, the “graveyard of the pacific” they call it. From the mouth of the carving Columbia, to the fjords and channels of the puget sound. These waters are full of a garden of life revealed when the moon is closest to the earth, purple stars, lemon slugs, and cherry red crabs scurry just beneath the veil of the salt water, an entire world within another.

Artemis

The enchanting coniferous forests, smelling of warm pine needles on a summers day, a shield from the gusts and drizzle on a rainy one, home to tantalizing tart huckleberries, stalks of thorned devils club, and mushrooms nestled amongst carpets of moss just begging for a gnome to set up a little home in a deadfall log just beggining to sprout a new baby fir. Perhaps a stream runs through, the aptly named salmonberries lining it a subtle hint to the fish that lay their eggs and embark on one final journey to create life anew once each year. These trees, towering and titanic, are ancient, but than, so am I.

Pan

The alpine, the mountains. The Heather, purple like a fire of floral majesty highlight the blinding light caps of snow of the cascades. Icy potholes filled with the clearest water you’ll ever see reflect the mountains like a mirror, like a portal to a realm not too far different from our own. Beautiful blueberries, succulent and sweet, bring a treat for the bears who roar in the spring, and in the winter, cover, for a vole who just barely squeaks. The crags are a mount for a brave mountain goat, and a perch for a view of a sunset to boast. The sounds of the meadows are soft as the snow, but still, Can’t you hear them? Can’t you hear the mountains sing?

So you see, my gods aren’t just me, they are the world I live in, and the air that I breathe. The world is as diverse as the cultures with which we fill it. How do your gods represent your home, how do they make the world you live in sing?

[misskazehana]

❄️Little snow bird❄️

(Tumblr refuses to let me upload all my pictures at once from my phone. Sorry for the format.)

basically, I made a gift for my aunt who has invited us over to her place for Christmas day. Originally it was gonna be a friendly mushroom with frills underneath its massive cap.

However, as I worked on it and draw closer to finishing the bottom of the cap, it looked more like a bird to me .

The technique I used to get the layers of shell stitches to look like feathers actually is kind of a wrist breaker if you’re not careful.

essentially, after you did all your increases up to 42 stitches in increments of six stitches and worked up roughly about three rows of single crochet.

in the front loops you start off with a single crochet then you do a shell stitch with five treble (double) crochets which gets secure immediately by slip stitch into the Free stitch next to it and then you repeat by making another single crochet until you’ve reached the end of your round after making your last shell stitch. You put a single crochet.

and in the back loops, you would decrease and then repeat this process until you’re up to 24 stitches. After you finish your final row of shell stitches you just simply see your crochet up the top 24 as if you were just crocheting a sphere and you finish off when you have six stitches from decreasing after five hours of 24.

That is effectively how I got the body .

Admittedly, all of this is free handed, and my wrists are in dreadful pain as a result.

though now I have something pretty cool to give to my aunt and a better idea what I’m gonna do next time I’m gonna try something like this because I really do love the end result.

art done by me, Misskazehana

[witchyfashion]

Selected for Jamie Oliver's Cookbook Club 'I love it. As soon as I opened this, I felt it was Christmas.' – Diana Henry Advent celebrates the magical run-up to Christmas with over 100 classic German baking recipes. The Advent season is one of the most special times of the year, when candles twinkle, the Christmas tree is decorated, and the smells of cinnamon, nutmeg and clove fill the kitchen.  In her new cookbook Advent, Anja Dunk shares her recipes for the very best of traditional German festive bakes. From lightly spiced Lebkuchen, frosted cinnamon stars, jam-filled ginger hearts, snow-capped coconut macaroons, to marzipan-filled Stollen, edible tree decorations, lucky meringue mushrooms and a gingerbread house dripping with candies and sugar icicles, you will find delectable spiced treats to fill your Bunter Teller and share with friends and family.  Featuring Anja's own linocut illustrations and evocative photography, this is a stunning, comforting clothbound volume that will be a family favourite for many years to come. The weeks of Advent hold all the sweet, almost unbearable anticipation of Christmas for days on end and this gorgeous book embraces that fairy-tale feeling within its pages.

buy here