Berries & Ink/Issues/Berries-02-02

Publication: Berries & Ink

Volume: 02

Issue: 02

Issue Date: April 1, 2025

Contributors: Eruwyn, Shaoimhe, Valynn, Kiyora, Rekletuzrit, Nawain, Crobin, Shaylynne, Allye, Kiashandra, Dantia, Imroth, Zehira, Nilme

Editor: Illiya

You tap a red-bordered 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. You gently open the folded parchment.

[~* Gnarled trees adorned with vibrant red strawberries and glossy black inkpots create a magical fairytale forest at the top of the page, the foliage framing the hand-lettered script: *~] Berries & Ink - Volume 2, Issue 2 [~* Editor's Note *~] As the spring air carries the scent of new blossoms, we find ourselves in a familiar, yet persistently unsettling, season in the wider world. The whispers and echoes surrounding the Heralds continue to drift on the wind, a constant, low hum beneath the surface of our daily lives. While the initial shock and confusion have perhaps settled into a weary acceptance, concrete answers remain stubbornly out of reach. Despite the lingering uncertainty, Berries & Ink is here to help you make sense of the world, both mundane and (wild-) magical. In this issue, we are thrilled to welcome two new contributors, Rekletuzrit and Zehira, whose works reflect the struggles and ambitions that define our time. Rekletuzrit's poem is a raw and relentless meditation on perseverance that can be read in more ways than one. Meanwhile, Zehira offers an intriguing perspective on the powers at play within the conflict that looms over us all. As the days lengthen and the world around us continues its unpredictable dance, we hope this issue of Berries & Ink offers a moment of reflection, connection, and perhaps even a spark of understanding. We remain committed to providing a space for thoughtful exploration and shared experience, and we thank you, our loyal readers, for continuing this journey with us. ~Warmly, Illiya [~* A heartfelt thank you to our generous sponsor for this issue: Zehira Al'thor *~] [~* Twin apple tree branches abloom with pale pink petals embrace the words "Guess Who? by Eruwyn Cholares" *~] A lattice-like sphere depicted in gold, yellow, and blue ink to mimic the appearance of electricity, surrounds a severe-looking Human male with crystal blue eyes and short auburn hair. He stands atop a broken tower, his still, hardened face tilted upward toward the cloud-darkened sky above. Clad in black, from the wide-brimmed hat that is angled with the cant of his head, to the dashing greatcoat layered over a smart waistcoat, to his crisp pants and polished boots, the man seems to exude a debonair aura. One hand is raised upward, metallic paint adding a subtle glint to the wedding band on his finger. (Last issue's portrait: Allye. Winner: Kerennya. MAIL in your guess for this month! The winner will be revealed next issue.) [~* A whimsical array of tarts tumbling through a series of hoops adorns the words "The Tumbling Tart by Shaoimhe Bramblebairn" *~] Like all good children, Mimi was obedient and quiet, and if you believe that I've got some snake oil to sell you. No, Mimi was wild and rambunctious, always escaping her chores to tumble through the meadows and sneak tarts from windowsills. While Olvi are certainly known to enjoy life, Mimi seemed intent on pushing its limits. She still loved her family, of course! But as soon as she could, she left her small village in search of adventure, and it was from here she found the brightly colored silks of the circus tent. It smelled both sweet and savory, the raucous noise from within like a siren song for little Mimi. Without a second glance back, our little adventuring acrobat pushed her way inside. [~* Eat This, Not That by Valynn *~] This issue we travel north to the Telgar Inn. Nestled under towering pines, this charming pub offers a portal to rustic simplicity and homey hospitality. On entering you are met with walls covered by memorabilia of Langenfirth's beginnings and the aroma of hearty fare wafting through the air. The menu is straightforward and a celebration of timeless flavors. Order the roasted boar, a showstopper--succulent, expertly seasoned, and perfectly paired with Langenfirth Red Ale. Want something lighter? The grilled pike boasts a smoky char and delicate flakiness. The Blackberry Stout adds the perfect complimentary note of sweetness to the fresh fish. Get a chocolate tart--trust me. With a full belly, retire to the game room for conversation and a dram of Tog Whiskey. A local favorite for the food, atmosphere, and excellent service, this is a hidden gem you'll want to return to time and again. [~* Stars of the Earth with Kiyora: Red *~] Starlight ruby: Fiery pink rubies glittering with deep reds and silvers are sure to catch the eye. Should one possess a star nestled near its center, you've found a rare treasure indeed! Source mines have been kept well hidden by the Olvi artisan family of Immokokkon, but handsome specimens still appear from time to time at esteemed auction houses. Vengeance ruby: As richly crimson as blood itself, this striking ruby bears ominous veins of purple inclusions mirroring hues of toxic flora, with speculation that source chromium deposits themselves are tainted by poison-bearing roots. Menacing in its own right, hushed tones murmur stories of prolonged wear fueling bitter rage lurking in the heart. Even so, these rumors have not hindered its inclusion in the fine jewelry available at recent Hollow's Eve festivals. [~* The Fall/The Climb by Rekletuzrit *~] One-thousand feet of sheer cliff. I've fallen, but now I climb Again. It doesn't matter how far Or how many times someone hinders me I will keep climbing. No matter my failures I have people who depend on me, therefore I must. I have to try. I have to, for the people I love. I perform this gargantuan task, Except I'm fighting against the impossible when I carry this much weight. It would be easy, To give up, to let go. I don't know why Life makes it this way, and sometimes I want To remind myself It's not the climb, or the cliff that kills you, or even the fall, its landing on the cold hard dirt. I need To remember that everything is about reaching the top, even if I falter. Climbing and falling, back and forth, sometimes it's important [~* Wisdom of the Pack - Kefir: Shared Blessings by Nawain Augtaire *~] A hunter once wandered far from Odcoru, deep into lands corrupted by necromantic corruption. Her food and water were gone, and the land bore no game or fruit. Her skin of goat milk had soured with unnatural swiftness. She prayed in desperation to the Great Pack, and with the whisper of wings, she had an answer. She drank again from the milk skin. No longer lumpy and foul, the milk was thick, creamy, and fortifying, and she was able to return home. This is kefir--a Gods-given gift for the Rakash people. We nurtured and fed the kefir "grains," growing them over generations. We shared our family kefir grains with our pack and friends, and it grew as we did, until no house was without. Add 2 spoons of kefir grains to 2 cups of milk, cover and leave in a warm, dark place for a full day before drinking. [~* The Adventures of Lavacano Gator, Ch. 12: Whispers of the Immortals by Crobin Yuanfen *~] Between drills, Lavacano listened as Sekmeht spoke of the Immortals--how even the fiercest warriors sought their favors before battle, offering thanks and asking for strength. The idea lingered, stirring something unfamiliar. After training, Lavacano slipped away from the guild, curiosity pulling him toward the temple. Inside, he moved quietly past the altars, eyes scanning the statues, uncertain where he belonged. Soft prayers echoed through the stone halls. Near a column, two clerics whispered. "Zynell's the one to ask," one said. "That Cleric has knowledge on all the Immortals." The name stuck. Maybe Zynell could help him understand. With one last glance at the flickering altars, Lavacano stepped back into the streets, ready to seek her out. [~* Five Fun Facts About Zoluren by Shaylynne *~] ~ Many adventurers we meet - but like Miraena and Unaka there are other people too! Zoluren has a population of five million, in cities, towns, villages, farms, clans, and remote locales. ~ Dumezyl's school is off the map. Wander the Middens by the orphanage, go into the school at the iron gate, and discover its glory, about as glorious as a tent can be. ~ At Laricott Brach, Forkbeard serves free Biiskbowr Beer. He didn't pay me to say this, probably, maybe. ~ Don't forget Leth is in Zoluren. Nature lovers, there's a Glade between the Ferry and Town. If you don't love that, shop Ilaya Taipa or take a ferry to Ain Ghazal. You may even see Srinoja skulking about, she is fond of attacking Acenamacra. ~ Rumor has it Dokt has found a new hobby by baking healthy cookies, it's a fact. [~* A mirrored pair of swans gracefully flank the words "Fashion Alley with Allye: Duskruin Dazzles!" ~*] The long-awaited Duskruin Arena and Mazes have returned, and with it, a surprising new array of fashion finds fit for nobles and adventurers alike! This season's hottest pieces boast rare materials and breathtaking designs. Highlights include an inky black bitterweave gown with a daring neckline, matching pumps, and a silver-white misiumosette ballgown with a sculpted drop-waist. For accessories, don't miss the opalescent icedrop handbag or the cascading faesoul bloom hair spike. With misiumosette wings and matching silver-spiraled slippers completing the lineup, elegance and enchantment reign supreme at Duskruin in 452! [~* Hands of Living Flame by Kiashandra *~] Flames dance in my grasp Ash and ember heed my call Darkness turns to light [~* A winding dashed line spells "Dantia's Destinations" and ends in a bright red X *~] Nestled within Bosque Deriel, the Grove of the White Laurel is home to a towering camphor laurel with sprawling branches and a dense canopy. This ancient tree shelters a hidden world teeming with life, from fragrant white blossoms to trumpet-shaped red flowers basking in rare sunlight. Treehopper toads call this place home, their constant croaking echoing through the branches. Adventurers can climb its gnarled limbs, navigate thick boughs, and discover secluded perches high above the forest floor. With winding vines and hidden nooks, the Grove invites explorers to lose themselves in its depths -- just be mindful of the eyes that seem to watch from the bark. [~* Imroth's Dream Journal *~] I had a dream of rats gnawing at each other in the dark, fighting over scraps I'd thrown them. Their teeth flashed in the dim light as they piled on top of one another in a frenzied swarm until the weak were crushed beneath the weight of the desperate. I watched with an entertained smile. Then, a sharp chill cut through the room. The chaos suddenly stopped. The rats stood completely still. My curiosity quickly fell into suffocating terror as an icy prickle ran up the back of my neck and my breath turned bitter. After a moment of unnerving stillness, all eyes snapped in unison to a single target: me. The air thickened with the weight of their intentions. I have been uneasy all morning. [~* It's Time to Play by Ershta Zehira Al'thor, Perverse Diva of Velaka *~] Once, she was highly motivated, and now that motivation has returned. In her dimly lit lavish parlor, she opened a worn leather book filled with notes and memories. A brief smile crossed her face, but it quickly turned to determination. She remembered the day their fates first crossed. "There must be something in here about the Immortals," she said, dismissing any thought of helping these people. But with war approaching, both sides would become weak, and she was ready to take advantage of that. She had mastered the art of deception, easily tricking those around her. That, though, was a story for another day. As she read about the Gods, she thought, "How interesting. They are not so different from Them." Those she helped would just be pawns in her game. Standing, she adjusted her crown into place. Wrinkling her nose, she walked toward the door. "It's time to act..human." [~* Framed by tiny clusters of rosebuds tinged in the diluted hues of a sunrise are the words "Worlds Open Up by Langen Esturi Nilme Iondu'il" *~] Words clash like swords, angry and vicious. Sometimes they're sweet - and sound simply delicious. They can bring you to tears of both sadness and joy, And give you direction, like a lighthouse or buoy. Simple or effusive, whispered, shouted or read, I can travel the world via something someone has said. Imagination takes words and blends ideas and dreams Creating magical places and mystical themes. I'm in awe at the talented folk who write here - Sharing their stories with those far and near. Thank you for letting us into your world Keep writing and showing us emotions unfurled. [~* Thank you for reading! Look out for more juicy bites next issue! *~]