Berries & Ink/Issues/Berries-01-06

Publication: Berries & Ink

Volume: 01

Issue: 06

Issue Date: August 1, 2024

Contributors: Eruwyn, Hanryu, Shaylynne, Ezathiel, Dantia, Shaoimhe, Allye, Hamuk, Nilme, Rileos, Crobin, Valynn, Ysindre

Editor: Illiya

You tap a colorfully illuminated parchment. A blob of berry-red wax is affixed to the parchment. It is imprinted with a plump strawberry nestled in a crown of delicate leaves.

[~* Vibrant watercolor strawberries grace the top of the page, depicting a basket overflowing with plump, juicy fruits interspersed with inkpots and feather quills around an unfurled scroll hand-lettered in a playful script: *~] Berries & Ink - Volume 1, Issue 6 [~* Editor's Note *~] In these turbulent times, a little comfort can go a long way. Whether it's a cherished ritual, a soothing cup of tea, or the delightful escape of Berries & Ink, taking a moment for yourself is essential. Our hearts ache for our missing friends, including our own Dantia. Thankfully her consistent early submissions allows us to continue enjoying her words as we navigate these uncertain times. We also warmly welcome new contributors Hamuk and Rileos to our pages. We hope their fresh perspectives, alongside our other amazing talent, will bring you solace and inspiration. Together, we'll weather this storm. With hope, Illiya [~* Twin apple tree branches abloom with pale pink petals embrace the words "Guess Who? by Eruwyn Cholares" *~] Golden hues infused with flecks of metal shimmer around the figure of a Human male of a mature age. His sharp-cornered mouth sits on an angular face below expressive eyes that match the color surrounding him. Ash-blonde hair falls past his shoulders and displays a distinguished-looking white streak from the temple, while an impeccably groomed beard covers his chin. Draped around his neck is an aureate knight's chain holding a dawnbreak diamond sunburst that rests upon his muscular chest over where his heart would be. His lean build is garbed in understated simplicity, allowing the symbol to take center stage, aside from the smooth sungold wedding ring that encircles one of his fingers. (Last month's portrait: Leayne. Winner: Valynn. MAIL in your guess for this month! The winner will be revealed next issue.) [~* Tips for Blunting the Spear by Hanryu Calibanor *~] While you are preparing your defensive kit, be sure to think about how you want to use that shield. You do have a shield, right? I sleep with mine right next to the bedroll so it's just second nature to strap that shield onto my arm first thing in the morning. If you are in the habit of slinging your shield over your shoulder beside that rucksack, you might want to toggle your mindset. You'd look awfully silly if you died with a perfectly good shield at hand just because it was busy protecting your shoulder instead of your face. [~* Seasonal Stargazing with Shaylynne *~] Nissa the Maiden: After time for self care, recharged Maidens return to the grind of aiding others. Kindness isn't weakness, save energy for the grateful of strength to bear their burdens. Akroeg the Ram: Enigmas abound, don't charge in horns up and heads down. Sharpen other senses as Elanthia navigates this recent wild magic mystery. An enemy unseen will take wisdom as well as brawn to beat. Ka'Len the Sea Drake: Visit Hara'Jaal this season by way of the north beach or the Jolas if traveling with others. Beware the maze between is perilous, tricks and traps known to outsmart the maps of the savviest sea drakes. Lirisa the Archer: Love is in the air for Archers and the objects of their affection have taken notice. Sling something other than arrows and reciprocate romance, it's sure to improve your aim on the heart. [~* Two roses entwine, their deep red blossoms meeting in a delicate kiss, beside the words "Immeasurable by Ezathiel Karanea" *~] Countless moments lost in thoughts of you Words inferior, trying to express What I feel as true. You can't read my mind but can you read my heart by the things I do for you? Sometimes I'm struck mute by the sheer magnitude of feeling for the sake of someone else. Dare I compare what's in my heart to the breadth and depth of the realm? Let us take a quiet moment to ponder and shrink it down to manageable size so that we can hold it close. To the World I may not shout or proclaim you, or exclaim who fills the gap in my life, but remain comforted in knowing, that each day I'll be showing just what it is you mean to me [~* A winding dashed line spells "Dantia's Destinations" and ends in a bright red X *~] Perched above the verdant landscape of Surlaenis Island, a path through Aesry ends at a flight of basalt stairs. There, carved into the cliffside vantage overlooking the island's northern crescents, stands an ancient, gnarled oak adorned with a stunning array of colored ribbons. This revered tree is known as the Marriage Tree, or Bonding Tree, and serves as a living tapestry woven from the vows of countless couples through the ages. Tradition holds that on engagement, lovers each tie a solitary ribbon to the oak's branches as a symbol of devotion. Then, on their wedding day, the two ribbons are intertwined, symbolizing their union. The Marriage Tree bears silent witness to the joys and sorrows entwined in its eternal braid. Will your own ribbon one day grace these twisting limbs? [~* A stack of delectable-looking tarts are drawn piled against the words "Sweet and Savory by Shaoimhe Bramblebairn" *~] So, this magic, huh? Been a little wild. I swear, I tried to cast one spell and it came out as two others! But it got me thinking about magic a lot more. Maybe not in the way all you scholars are, but in a...well, do you remember when we didn't even have magic? Our younger selves, that is. Before we were what we are. I never dreamed I'd be able to weave words into magic, couldn't have imagined songs vanquishing my foes or helping to heal a friend! I think we sometimes lose the *magic* of our magic. Even if your magic is unconventional! We are all full of just really amazing stuff. So no matter how wild this all gets, remember not to take your abilities for granted! [~* Fashion Alley with Allye: Ball Fashion Roundup *~] Gala season is upon us, chic readers! Gather, be merry, and ogle (politely!) the newest trends. Therengia's Blood Ball left attendees' pulses racing from combat and style prowess! Many fashion-forward guests dressed to the theme, casting daring splashes of crimson, vermilion, and scarlet across the spectator's perch. Hostess and Court Bard Ruea was striking in a decadent silver battle gown, dripping in molten-core diamonds. Tavern Troupe's Elemental Elegance Ball next took center stage, highlighting entrants' sartorial talents with a variety of looks perfectly capturing the traditional six elements and more. Shaylynne's delightful earthen toga set, Illiya's entertaining Gauthus impersonation, and Hamuk's electrifying lightning ensemble dazzled us all! Watch out for the next great Elanthian gala, and don your own finery to join the fun. [~* /\/ Practical Elementalism with Hamuk! \/\ *~] We all know the incredible power an Elementalist can bring to bear on the battlefield, but what most might not know is how to leverage that vast magical repertoire to make your home life easier. That's what we'll explore in this very serious and in depth series. Let's get started with the Earth Book! Sure Footing: Repairing a roof? Retrieving a book off the top shelf? Chasing your escaped goat up a treacherous mountain pass? Sure Footing will keep your boots planted where they belong and prevent another nasty tumble. Anther's Call: Speaking of ladders, any independent DIYer knows that for ultimate safety you need a ladder buddy. But no longer with the Anther's Call spell. A friendly set of hands will keep you steady and safe! Also helpful for dealing with packs of unruly children underfoot! [~* Framed by tiny clusters of rosebuds tinged in the diluted hues of a sunrise are the words "Always Late by Langen Esturi Nilme Iondu'il" *~] I try to walk the path you walk but end three steps behind The more I try to catch up The greater the distance in my mind. I see you up ahead of me, Without looking back. It drives me to move faster, To gain the speed I lack. I see your pace, your length of stride But somehow can't exceed it To reach you and then walk beside Yet, still I try and don't quit. Sometimes I wish you'd slowly walk So I could bridge the distance But if I could ever bring it up I'd be met with sure resistance. I try to walk the path you walk But time stands still for no one It marches onward, marking each day By the rising and setting sun. [~* Deep Thoughts While Fishing by Rileos Shaw *~] Ya know, sometimes, you're gonna find yourself in situations where you don't know what to do, but don't you worry none. Whenever that happens, just ask yourself "What would Madigan do?" Then do the opposite. He gets set on fire a lot and I'm starting to suspect it's something he's doing. Which reminds me, somebody once told me the best way to know the future is to build it, but that seems like an awful lot of work when you can just ask a Moon Mage. [~* The Adventures of Lavacano Gator, Ch. 6: Rebuffed at the Gate by Crobin Yuanfen *~] With Sekmeht's riste at his side and newfound determination, Lavacano Gator set his sights on the bustling town of Crossing. As he approached the town's gates, he was met with disdainful glares and hostile murmurs. "Halt, goblin!" a guard barked, blocking his path. "We don't allow your kind in Crossing. Be gone!" Despite Lavacano's peaceful intentions, a small scuffle ensued. Bruised and bloodied, he fled, bitterness clouding his mind. As he stumbled through the outskirts of Crossing, Lavacano's strength waned. Just when hope seemed lost, a soft voice called out, "Are you alright?" A compassionate Empath named Illiya approached, her eyes filled with concern. With gentle hands, Illiya healed Lavacano's wounds. "Don't give up on your dreams," she whispered. "The path to greatness is never easy, but you have the heart of a true adventurer. Keep going." Heartened by Illiya's words and her healing touch, Lavacano thanked her. With renewed determination, he set his sights on the horizon, ready to continue his journey and prove that even a goblin could achieve greatness. [~* An Elven Epicurean Event by Valynn *~] West of Crossing a lone ironwood stands watch over a satinwood grove, holding an interesting collection of food and drinks among its branches. The cart offers a few standard quaffs, but I opted for a flagon of Prydaen bloodwine. While raising the cup to my lips, I heard clicking noises coming from the nearby sideboard. A salt crab popped out of an aquarium waving and snapping its claws as if in warning. I ignored the creature and took a sip. The crab knew--the taste of congealed blood assaulted my taste buds. I glared at the crab and stifled a gag reflex. I reluctantly scooped a wine-soaked rat out of the tureen only to have it slip from my fingers and dash for safety. I secretly wished the rodent godspeed and admitted even wine sauce could not have made it palatable. Live salt crabs: I appreciate freshness as much as the next person, but when that crab waggled its pincers at me (and surprise!) I dropped it, it bolted from the space, headed back to Riverhaven and the beach. Next raw bear and raw troll--yes, troll. The mere thought had me recalling the virtues of cooking. I confess by this point my Elven constitution was wavering and the live mice making a valiant escape across the table evoked a mix of sympathy and horror. If you wish to push the boundaries of what constitutes a meal (and your stomach's fortitude), this may be the place for you. As for me, I will stick with salads and ginger tea. [~* Brightly colored tambourines create a border to each side of the words "Dreams by Ysindre" *~] All my life I have been torn Between my waking life and dreams A constant battle ever wages Between the two it seems My waking life is full of joy And I am truly blessed But Oh! The dream world that I live Each night when I'm at rest! My dreams are full of wonder Adventures at all turns Laughter, song, danger, friends For which my waking soul yearns I'll give my all to my waking life But, inside, the whole day through I'm waiting for the dream world Where I can be with you [~* Thank you for reading! Look out for more juicy bites next month! *~]