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Locations
The Great Realm of Folkmore
General Information
Folkmore is a magical pocket realm completely disconnected from the rest of existence.
It does not exist in the past, present, or future. Its existence is entirely reliant on the combined energy from the Fox and the astral energy recycled through the characters.
Folkmore is inescapable. There is nothing to discover beyond its skies or inside of its core except for raw astral energy. Folkmore is usually predictable in its shape, but there have been some Trials that drastically alter the landscape.
🦊 Folkmore Train runs in a circular route through Folkmore with stations at the heart of each area. The train runs 24/7.
🦊 Sled dogs in Wintermute help people traverse the harsh terrain. You can rent or buy your own sled team at Akhlut Station.
🦊 Horses are the most common form of short-distance transportation. Pre-trained horses are supplied at Elder Mother Station and Oozlum Station.
🦊 Bikes and small non-engine boats are available for purchase in Ephiphany, Willow, and Cruel Summer.
🦊 Cat Bus has been known to run random routes all over Folkmore. It is rumored that the Cat Bus is gifted at finding those in need or who just want to escape to somewhere new. If you wait under a street lamp long enough, the Cat Bus will find you! It is unknown how the Cat Bus knows where to bring you, but it gets the job done. Riding the Cat Bus can be a chaotic experience. Feeding the Cat Bus treats and giving it pets will guarantee the Cat Bus comes when you call for it and it will prioritize you over others.
🦊 Kitten Bus will be around Folkmore too, following and learning from his father. He is not as reliable and may sometimes disappear for a whole month, but he is doing his best! He is tiny so only a small child would fit... or small familiars.
🦊 Steam-powered vehicles are available for purchase or renting in Tides City.
🦊 Small-sized submarines that carry up to 6 people and are driven by Water Nymphs allow characters to reach the underwater city of Tides.
🦊 Characters are welcome to create personal vehicles similar to cars, mopeds, personal flying machines, etc. We do not allow characters to own vehicles larger than a bus. Your character can create these machines through Spoon Spending.
The Details
There isn't much besides ice and snow to be found in Wintermute. The majority of Wintermute is considered inhabitable due to freezing winds and harsh conditions with limited food and water. The School of Thoth is tucked along the warmest part of Wintermute and depends on the cold weather to keep its tech from overheating. A small nameless town, including Akhlut Station, is tucked around the School of Thoth and exists primarily to keep the school running.
There are small taverns with hot meals and warm beds for people who find themselves stranded in Wintermute unexpectedly. While there are no known neighborhoods, one could find a cozy cabin or build their own in Wintermute. Dogs are the heart of the north and you will find well-mannered dogs wandering all about, ready to pull sleds and keep people warm and ward off dangerous creatures.
Wintermute has no sunlight from October to March. The rest of the year has sunlight. While Wintermute is largely barren, many Trials have been known to take place in its vacant wastelands. Many have found incredible treasures and rewards in its cruel landscape and some take solace in its isolation. Plus, no one can deny that there is a certain beauty in its icy mountains and snowdrifts.
There are small taverns with hot meals and warm beds for people who find themselves stranded in Wintermute unexpectedly. While there are no known neighborhoods, one could find a cozy cabin or build their own in Wintermute. Dogs are the heart of the north and you will find well-mannered dogs wandering all about, ready to pull sleds and keep people warm and ward off dangerous creatures.
Wintermute has no sunlight from October to March. The rest of the year has sunlight. While Wintermute is largely barren, many Trials have been known to take place in its vacant wastelands. Many have found incredible treasures and rewards in its cruel landscape and some take solace in its isolation. Plus, no one can deny that there is a certain beauty in its icy mountains and snowdrifts.
Typical Weather
Freezing cold & frequent blizzards. No warm season.
School
School of Thoth: Technical Education
Train Station(s)/Neighborhoods
Akhlut Station: 1 mile from School of Thoth. No neighborhoods. Limited residential opportunities.
Hot Springs
The Hot Springs are the most popular location outside of the school in Wintermute. Dozens of hot springs can be found against the mountains and most of them are accessible to the average person. Some have structures built around them, providing intimate escapes with little cabins and getaways. Others are off rocky trails and can be a life-saving find in a blizzard. The hot springs are soothing to aching joints and feel incredible in contrast to the cold weather. They have been known to provide long-term pain relief, stress relief, and even heal minor wounds.
Some hot springs look over steep cliffs and forests of evergreen. You can feel alone in the world in the hot springs, but don't fret when you suddenly find yourself in the company of some Japanese macaques who are just as eager as you to get warm. Other more mystical creatures have been known to visit the hot springs. You might not want to lower your guard. Some believe dragons will disguise themselves as beautiful people to mingle safely in the hot springs but surely that's just an old folk story...? If you pay close attention...You can see flickering movement through the steam and clouds of the mountains and hear distant roars. Maybe dragons do exist. It would certainly explain the healing quality of the hot springs...
Some hot springs look over steep cliffs and forests of evergreen. You can feel alone in the world in the hot springs, but don't fret when you suddenly find yourself in the company of some Japanese macaques who are just as eager as you to get warm. Other more mystical creatures have been known to visit the hot springs. You might not want to lower your guard. Some believe dragons will disguise themselves as beautiful people to mingle safely in the hot springs but surely that's just an old folk story...? If you pay close attention...You can see flickering movement through the steam and clouds of the mountains and hear distant roars. Maybe dragons do exist. It would certainly explain the healing quality of the hot springs...
Cutting Edge
This sharp building sits within walking distance of the school. It relies on a steady production of astral energy to summon forth unique technology from throughout existence. The downstairs is a well-stocked and well-organized warehouse of various supplies one could use for technology and construction. Sheets of metal, wires, tools, unusual material. You might not always find what you're looking for, but it will give you a good enough starting point and who knows! If you frequent it enough, you might get lucky at summoned goods.
The second story to Cutting Edge is a high-end restaurant. It might seem like a strange combination, but Cutting Edge is a focal point of mass production in Folkmore and a lot of important people visit! The view of the mountains and surrounding nature is stunning and ideal for romantic dates. The restaurant serves high quality cuts of meat, perfectly picked veggies, and has decadant desserts. Expect to spend a lot of spoons at Cutting Edge - whether in the warehouse or the restaurant portion. At least you will walk away satisfied!
The second story to Cutting Edge is a high-end restaurant. It might seem like a strange combination, but Cutting Edge is a focal point of mass production in Folkmore and a lot of important people visit! The view of the mountains and surrounding nature is stunning and ideal for romantic dates. The restaurant serves high quality cuts of meat, perfectly picked veggies, and has decadant desserts. Expect to spend a lot of spoons at Cutting Edge - whether in the warehouse or the restaurant portion. At least you will walk away satisfied!
The Wandering Dog (Food Cart)
One of Wintermute's surprises is The Wandering Dog, a food cart. Spirit dogs completely run this small food cart, roam the Wintermute mountains, and pop out of nowhere as if by magic (though they will deny that if pressed). While Wintermute seems to be their home base and most likely area to be sighted, the Wandering Dog is known to appear throughout all of Folkmore—from Cruel Summer's deserts to Willow's lakes.
The images posted on the cart's menu may look suspiciously like its meant for dogs, but they are perfectly safe and tasty for human (and other species') consumption. They provide a regional menu: for the colder parts of Folkmore, there are warm drinks, stews, curries, and all kinds of food that would warm your soul. For warmer parts, the menu includes iced drinks & chilled foods, perfect for cooling down. While all food is served in doggy bowls, please don't take offense! The dogs are there to feed you and to make you happy.
Please don't forget to pet them. A lot.
Story goes a Shiba Inu felt the Catfe and its cats in Epiphany got too much attention. He solved the problem with his retired sled dog friend, coming up with the idea of The Wandering Dog. They recruited other dogs in each region of Folkmore—each well adapted to its specific area, so they can reach all sorts of obscure places and make The Wandering Dog a successful businessto rival Catfe's success.
The images posted on the cart's menu may look suspiciously like its meant for dogs, but they are perfectly safe and tasty for human (and other species') consumption. They provide a regional menu: for the colder parts of Folkmore, there are warm drinks, stews, curries, and all kinds of food that would warm your soul. For warmer parts, the menu includes iced drinks & chilled foods, perfect for cooling down. While all food is served in doggy bowls, please don't take offense! The dogs are there to feed you and to make you happy.
Please don't forget to pet them. A lot.
Story goes a Shiba Inu felt the Catfe and its cats in Epiphany got too much attention. He solved the problem with his retired sled dog friend, coming up with the idea of The Wandering Dog. They recruited other dogs in each region of Folkmore—each well adapted to its specific area, so they can reach all sorts of obscure places and make The Wandering Dog a successful business
The Details
Willow is a cottagecore dream come true. Imagine simple life, low tech, appreciation for nature, and a more cozy connection to your neighbors. Willow is known for its farming community, providing the majority of Folkmore with crops and meat. Willow is a comfortable, familiar world to many who might be from worlds before tech-booms happened. You won't see too many modern ammenities beyond basic electricity in Willow!
There are many festivals held in Willow which helps contribute to the inviting atmosphere. It is a cheaper place to live with costs on food extremely low given you're buying it right at the source and most farmers will appreciate getting paid in spoons directly. Willow is between the mountains and Exile so it has been known to suffer from floods during rainy seasons. Winters can produce heavy snowstorms while summers remain a little on the brisk side. You can plant just about anything in Willow and it will grow like weeds.
Willow is also the primary production of lumber for Folkmore. For every tree brought down, two more are planted. Willow is a testament to loving nature and animals, most of its residents believing in a more mutual relationship with the world around them. Things might be slow in Willow, but they are steady and reliable.
There are many festivals held in Willow which helps contribute to the inviting atmosphere. It is a cheaper place to live with costs on food extremely low given you're buying it right at the source and most farmers will appreciate getting paid in spoons directly. Willow is between the mountains and Exile so it has been known to suffer from floods during rainy seasons. Winters can produce heavy snowstorms while summers remain a little on the brisk side. You can plant just about anything in Willow and it will grow like weeds.
Willow is also the primary production of lumber for Folkmore. For every tree brought down, two more are planted. Willow is a testament to loving nature and animals, most of its residents believing in a more mutual relationship with the world around them. Things might be slow in Willow, but they are steady and reliable.
Typical Weather
Four seasons with mild summers & cold winters
School
Amrita Academy: Survival Education
Train Station(s)/Neighborhoods
Elder Mother Station: 2 miles from Amrita Academy. Lapine, Gram, Talaria, and Leshy are the heavily populated neighborhoods of Willow.
Elder Mother Station
Elder Mother Station is not just a train station but a hub of trade. Surrounding the station are stalls of clothing goods, snacks, musicians in the streets, people selling or renting horses, and the like. Elder Mother is always lively no matter what time of day or night you pass through. Fairy lights flitter about over the station - literal fairy lights! You can see the little glowing bodies darting about as fairies enjoy life with their more human-shaped companions. These fairies are known to be either benevolent and helpful to people, helping them find places or each other, while other fairies are a bit more mischievous and enjoy pranking people. Fairies sound like bells and communicating with them in any traditional way isn't possible, but you can still enjoy their companionship!
One of the most popular trade goods at Elder Mother is the flower crowns given away directly at the station as people board off. It's considered good luck and customary for most people to wear flower crowns while visiting Willow. Flower crowns are seen as a cultural significance in Willow and while it is not rude to be without a flower crown, you will find people are much friendlier to those wearing them. The belief in flower language is strong in Willow. Flowers matter! You can buy nice flower crowns but most will be given for free. It is seen as a gesture of kindness and good faith.
One of the most popular trade goods at Elder Mother is the flower crowns given away directly at the station as people board off. It's considered good luck and customary for most people to wear flower crowns while visiting Willow. Flower crowns are seen as a cultural significance in Willow and while it is not rude to be without a flower crown, you will find people are much friendlier to those wearing them. The belief in flower language is strong in Willow. Flowers matter! You can buy nice flower crowns but most will be given for free. It is seen as a gesture of kindness and good faith.
The Prancing Pony
The most popular pub in Willow! The Prancing Pony is a large two-story pub known for its delicious alcoholic beverages, incredible breads, perfect soups, and mouth-watering chocolate. This is about as cozy as it gets. The Prancing Pony is at the heart of Willow and is always busy. Folks of all kinds will gravitate to the pub. Sometimes it seems like an impossible feat to produce enough food and drink for everyone, but the Prancing Pony manages! Everything is incredibly cheap despite the high quality, but most people tip the wait staff generously with spoons.
You can get a private table tucked into one of the corners or occupy a massive table with a bunch of friends. Musicians like to stop by and play on the tiny stage at the back by the bar and the music can be heard all throughout Prancing Pony. There are a few bodyguards to intervene when people get a little too excited, but generally speaking, the atmosphere is fun and light-hearted. Just make sure you keep an eye on your spoon! While the majority of the Prancing Pony pub are pleasant, you still have those mischievous fairies from Elder Mother who don't mind taking advantage of a drunken sop or the general chaos. Some people have been robbed blind by fairies - but what can you do? Those little suckers will getchya! They just like shiny things, okay?
You can get a private table tucked into one of the corners or occupy a massive table with a bunch of friends. Musicians like to stop by and play on the tiny stage at the back by the bar and the music can be heard all throughout Prancing Pony. There are a few bodyguards to intervene when people get a little too excited, but generally speaking, the atmosphere is fun and light-hearted. Just make sure you keep an eye on your spoon! While the majority of the Prancing Pony pub are pleasant, you still have those mischievous fairies from Elder Mother who don't mind taking advantage of a drunken sop or the general chaos. Some people have been robbed blind by fairies - but what can you do? Those little suckers will getchya! They just like shiny things, okay?
Farmer's Market
Self-explanatory! It's a Farmer's Market. You can find pretty much anything grown out of the earth in the Farmer's Market. It is a bit time-sensitive though as you need to get there early in the morning to get the best of anything. By noon, the Farmer's Market is mostly sold out, and by about four in the afternoon, mostly everyone has packed up to head home for the day. You can sell mostly anything at the Farmer's Market but the food is the most common trade good. Those who live close can enjoy fresh fruits and veggies year-round since most people in Willow seem highly skilled at food preservation and have a few magical tricks up their sleeves to grow strawberries in the dead of winter!
Fairies fester about in the Farmer's Market but most seem to be eager to help! Don't have quite enough spoons for that acorn squash you're eying? A fairy might come along with a spoon to help out! The Farmer's Market is a decent place to buy pets too! Breeders of horses, dogs, pigs, chickens, and the like will bring baby animals to the market and auction them off at reasonable prices. Just make sure you treat them right! They say if you abuse an animal from the Farmer's Market, a changeling will swap the animal out and reign absolute hell on your life. But like, maybe just don't be a jerk to animals to begin with and you won't have that problem!
Fairies fester about in the Farmer's Market but most seem to be eager to help! Don't have quite enough spoons for that acorn squash you're eying? A fairy might come along with a spoon to help out! The Farmer's Market is a decent place to buy pets too! Breeders of horses, dogs, pigs, chickens, and the like will bring baby animals to the market and auction them off at reasonable prices. Just make sure you treat them right! They say if you abuse an animal from the Farmer's Market, a changeling will swap the animal out and reign absolute hell on your life. But like, maybe just don't be a jerk to animals to begin with and you won't have that problem!
The Lakes
There are few places more beautiful in Folkmore than the Lakes. These Lakes are enchanting, clean, blue, and perfect for just about everything you would want in a lake! Fishing is an absolute dream and people can be found boating around the water on a regular basis. Trails thread around the Lakes with plenty of nice little camp sights, tables, and little fire pits. It's a popular place to enjoy camping but it isn't all comfy scarves and rocking boats. There is a certain energy about the Lakes and it is a known rumor that you shouldn't pollute the area. Be mindful of your trash and try not to use a boat with an engine on the water.
Those who are cruel to the nature around them will find nature being cruel right back. Flickering, shadowed creatures will tear through your camp supplies, spoil your food, put out your fires, and stalk you through the woods. Some people have been known to be lost indefinitely in the woods, terrorized by howling shrieks and unseen creatures. People who have taken boats with engines out into the Lake have been rumored to be pulled under by some massive creature. However, that same creature has been known to save people who are casually swimming from drowning. Not all heroes wear capes: some just crush disrespectful fools. Leave the world as you find it and all will be well.
Those who are cruel to the nature around them will find nature being cruel right back. Flickering, shadowed creatures will tear through your camp supplies, spoil your food, put out your fires, and stalk you through the woods. Some people have been known to be lost indefinitely in the woods, terrorized by howling shrieks and unseen creatures. People who have taken boats with engines out into the Lake have been rumored to be pulled under by some massive creature. However, that same creature has been known to save people who are casually swimming from drowning. Not all heroes wear capes: some just crush disrespectful fools. Leave the world as you find it and all will be well.
The Details
Epiphany may be the most familiar location to some. Epiphany acts as something of your standard college town. It's basically a fake city, too small to be an actual city, but a bit too full to be a town. Many believe there is a general enchantment about Epiphany since it tends to cause feelings of nostalgia and quiet longing. Those who live in Epiphany tend to self-reflect more than they typically would. Some find Epiphany a very sad place to live because of this, people deal with regrets before they are ready, while others find it to be a healing place, allowing for growth after regrets.
Epiphany is on the wet side. Frequent rainstorms hit the college town throughout spring, summer, and fall. With the rain comes immeasurable feelings of relief and excitement. Old people have been known to feel years younger and some believe trauma and grief have been shed in the downpour. Curious little altars can be found scattered throughout the urban area, tucked into alleys and hidden under bridges. Some claim leaving gifts at these altars brings great luck.
The outskirts of Epiphany are lush with waterfalls and dense forests. They contribute to a large production of food and water as well though Epiphany tends to be more focused on mental growth rather than physical.
Epiphany is on the wet side. Frequent rainstorms hit the college town throughout spring, summer, and fall. With the rain comes immeasurable feelings of relief and excitement. Old people have been known to feel years younger and some believe trauma and grief have been shed in the downpour. Curious little altars can be found scattered throughout the urban area, tucked into alleys and hidden under bridges. Some claim leaving gifts at these altars brings great luck.
The outskirts of Epiphany are lush with waterfalls and dense forests. They contribute to a large production of food and water as well though Epiphany tends to be more focused on mental growth rather than physical.
Typical Weather
Four seasons with humid summers & mild winters
School
Kuma Lisa Academy: Standard Education
Train Station(s)/Neighborhoods
Jami Station: 2 miles from Satori Hills and Luan Station: 1 1/2 miles from Kuma Lisa Academy. Satori Hills are the primary neighborhood, but many people have independent homes and apartments.
Jami Station
While Willow had a surplus of flowers, it is Jami Station that is famous for its gardens. Jami Station might be one of the most beautiful train stations in existence, carefully crafted with careful stone statues of various mythical creatures. It's absolutely spotless and as you step off the train, you get a rich scent of flowers in the air. Surrounding the station are well-kept, intricate gardens that are in full blossom year-round. The enchanted gardens don't wilt under snow though you might have to clear some snow from the flowers. There are designated workers who busy themselves with keeping the gardens well maintained and tended to.
Nature spirits flourish in these gardens, slipping about the various plants and giving them a little extra something. Lanterns hang delicately among blossoming trees and many believe content spirits live in these lanterns and bless the gardens around them. Small stalls throughout the gardens sell simple, light treats and drinks. Some sell paper lanterns you can light in honor of a loved one and put up in a tree. It is said the light will never go out so long as your love holds true. Many young sweethearts enjoy decorating a lantern and putting it up together...Granted, it's kind of mortifying when you go to check on the lantern later and the light has gone out. That's one way to realize your partner no longer loves you!
Nature spirits flourish in these gardens, slipping about the various plants and giving them a little extra something. Lanterns hang delicately among blossoming trees and many believe content spirits live in these lanterns and bless the gardens around them. Small stalls throughout the gardens sell simple, light treats and drinks. Some sell paper lanterns you can light in honor of a loved one and put up in a tree. It is said the light will never go out so long as your love holds true. Many young sweethearts enjoy decorating a lantern and putting it up together...Granted, it's kind of mortifying when you go to check on the lantern later and the light has gone out. That's one way to realize your partner no longer loves you!
Luan Station - Luan Street
The moment you get off at Luan Station, you are greeted with the most divine music you will ever hear in your life. The music comes from enchanting, vibrant birds that seem as though they are hovering in the air rather than flying. They flit about in mesmerizing trails of color. Impossible to catch but always near enough to admire, the captivating birds fill the air with their song and have brought enormous success to what has been dubbed "Luan Street."
Luan Street is filled with delicious food stalls with sizzling dishes you can eat with your hands and move about freely. Modern clothing shops are filled with exciting trends and styles.
You can find a place to get your hair done, tattoos, piercings, and live your best life. It's hard to not get swept up in the atmosphere created by the birds. To those who struggle with hearing, you will get to enjoy a pleasant vibration all over your body as their song floats around you. The bird feathers can be found scattered throughout the streets and have been said to have mystical properties. If you eat one of these feathers, you can sing someone under your control or dazzle an audience.
Luan Street is filled with delicious food stalls with sizzling dishes you can eat with your hands and move about freely. Modern clothing shops are filled with exciting trends and styles.
You can find a place to get your hair done, tattoos, piercings, and live your best life. It's hard to not get swept up in the atmosphere created by the birds. To those who struggle with hearing, you will get to enjoy a pleasant vibration all over your body as their song floats around you. The bird feathers can be found scattered throughout the streets and have been said to have mystical properties. If you eat one of these feathers, you can sing someone under your control or dazzle an audience.
Convenience Store
Every dense urban area has that one convenience store that everyone goes to because it has the best deals and seems to always be right around the corner. In the case of this convenience store, that's literally true. It's a moving convenience store that seems to have the same magical properties as Baba Yaga only it appears to those who need it the most. Need a midnight snack? Did you run out of cigarettes? Are you having a bad craving for some chips? The store will appear a block or two away wherever you are in Epiphany and always have what you need in stock.
Granted, its magic seems fairly limited to super simplistic wishes, but sometimes that's all you need. It has the best slushies that always hit the spot, has the best breakfast sandwiches for severe hang-overs, and everything is perfectly affordable for a mostly college-focused area. The store is small and cluttered, and it always seems like no one is working the counter until you're ready to pay and then some jaded teen appears out of nowhere. She will always seem distracted, bored, and never say a word to you no matter how friendly you are, but don't worry! She's about as neutral-good as you can possibly get. No judgment here for your midnight stoned munchies or hot mess outfits. This chick judges no one. She might even throw in a free pack of gum if she really pities you.
Granted, its magic seems fairly limited to super simplistic wishes, but sometimes that's all you need. It has the best slushies that always hit the spot, has the best breakfast sandwiches for severe hang-overs, and everything is perfectly affordable for a mostly college-focused area. The store is small and cluttered, and it always seems like no one is working the counter until you're ready to pay and then some jaded teen appears out of nowhere. She will always seem distracted, bored, and never say a word to you no matter how friendly you are, but don't worry! She's about as neutral-good as you can possibly get. No judgment here for your midnight stoned munchies or hot mess outfits. This chick judges no one. She might even throw in a free pack of gum if she really pities you.
Catfe
This famous bakery is a dream destination throughout Folkmore. It has the most delicious baked goods and treats in the entire realm, but it is also completely cat-themed and filled up with cuties. You can enjoy your biscuits with a cute kitten on your lap surrounded by cat-themed furniture and servers in cat-themed outfits. It is basically cute central. For those who have crippling allergies to cats, no worries! There's an allergen-free part of the Catfe where you can enjoy your baked goods without fear of dying on the spot.
All the cats in the Catfe seem unusually wise and perceptive and tend to act like they actually understand what you are saying. Do they? Do they really? Maybe they are all therapists trapped in the mortal coil of a feline body. Why is life so unfair! That or it's just a cat zoning out while you talk to it about your dating problems. You can feel free to bring any of the cats home with you, but most of them will wind back up at the Catfe one way or another...But those who pay extra attention to the cats will discover the cats will remember and flock to you wherever you go in Epiphany.
All the cats in the Catfe seem unusually wise and perceptive and tend to act like they actually understand what you are saying. Do they? Do they really? Maybe they are all therapists trapped in the mortal coil of a feline body. Why is life so unfair! That or it's just a cat zoning out while you talk to it about your dating problems. You can feel free to bring any of the cats home with you, but most of them will wind back up at the Catfe one way or another...But those who pay extra attention to the cats will discover the cats will remember and flock to you wherever you go in Epiphany.
The Details
Cruel Summer is aptly named: it is a cruel place to visit. While Wintermute is vicious in its own right, Cruel Summer is known for its innovative hostility. This tends to be the focal point of combative Trials. The core town has built a wall against the majority of Cruel Summer and horses bred in the desert are trained specifically to deal with the lethality of the desert. You have to be smart, fast, and strong to survive traveling in the desert and most people just stick to staying around the school for safety.
Some have nicknamed Cruel Summer as Monster Country due to its variety of unusual creatures that run rampant. While it is a jarring clash against the rest of Folkmore, many believe it to be necessary cruelty. After all, warriors in training do need challenges on a regular basis. Cruel Summer exists to toughen up the body, soul, and mind. Those who live in Cruel Summer get tell-tale stripe marks across their body after a while. Some refer to it as Cruel Summer's "sun burn" but it is considered a mark of honor to those who have been able to tolerate the atmosphere. You really do earn your stripes here! These can look like bruises, birth marks, scars, or actual tattoos. The longer you stick around Cruel Summer, the longer the marks stay. If you don't live and breathe in Cruel Summer on a regular basis, you'll rarely get the marks. Some get them all over their bodies while others only get them on certain body parts.
Some have nicknamed Cruel Summer as Monster Country due to its variety of unusual creatures that run rampant. While it is a jarring clash against the rest of Folkmore, many believe it to be necessary cruelty. After all, warriors in training do need challenges on a regular basis. Cruel Summer exists to toughen up the body, soul, and mind. Those who live in Cruel Summer get tell-tale stripe marks across their body after a while. Some refer to it as Cruel Summer's "sun burn" but it is considered a mark of honor to those who have been able to tolerate the atmosphere. You really do earn your stripes here! These can look like bruises, birth marks, scars, or actual tattoos. The longer you stick around Cruel Summer, the longer the marks stay. If you don't live and breathe in Cruel Summer on a regular basis, you'll rarely get the marks. Some get them all over their bodies while others only get them on certain body parts.
Typical Weather
Scorching heat & long dry spells. No cold season.
School
Agrona Academy: Combat Education
Train Station(s)/Neighborhoods
Oozlum Station: 4 miles from Agrona Academy. Puca Park is a popular neighborhood, but small huts are located near Agrona Academy. Many dorm at Agrona Academy.
Obambo Station: Unknown how many miles to Baba Yaga.
Obambo Station: Unknown how many miles to Baba Yaga.
Oozlum & Obambo Stations
Oozlum Station is about as plain as they come. It's meant to be practical. Once you get off, you can get water, healthy food, and training equipment and supplies from the nearby stores. There are some seedier places that offer up questionable supplements that allegedly "boost" your strength and powers to insane degrees. But some say that taking those supplements can turn you into a real monster. Hopefully that's just an exaggeration!
Everything is a bit of a test. No one will tell you where the academy is. There are plenty of fighting pits between the station and the school. Bars and hot gambling spots are scattered about. It's an easy way to earn spoons, after all, without dedicating yourself to a full-time job. People will bet hundreds of spoons on a fight and it can be rewarding.
Obambo Station is a bit different. Located closer to Puca Park, it provides immediate necessities so residents of Puca Park don't have track back and forth to nearby areas for milk and eggs. But if they want anything fancier, then it's to the trains. Obambo supplies well-trained horses and often provides guidance to Exile for those who seek it.
Everything is a bit of a test. No one will tell you where the academy is. There are plenty of fighting pits between the station and the school. Bars and hot gambling spots are scattered about. It's an easy way to earn spoons, after all, without dedicating yourself to a full-time job. People will bet hundreds of spoons on a fight and it can be rewarding.
Obambo Station is a bit different. Located closer to Puca Park, it provides immediate necessities so residents of Puca Park don't have track back and forth to nearby areas for milk and eggs. But if they want anything fancier, then it's to the trains. Obambo supplies well-trained horses and often provides guidance to Exile for those who seek it.
Euphoria
You do not find Euphoria, Euphoria finds you. Euphoria is one of Folkmore's most famous secret mysteries. It's more elusive than Baba Yaga and that's because Euphoria isn't really a place...It's a state of mind. Anyone can find themselves vulnerable to being thrown upside down and being sent to some place. It's hazy and glittery, and you're filled with a euphoric feeling unlike anything you have felt before. The music is perfect, maybe there is food and drink, everything is beautiful, everything is melting, you are beautiful, the people you are with are beautiful.
The Fox has once called Euphoria the ultimate meeting point between Good and Bad. That Euphoria is what drives everyone at their core whether they want to admit it or not. Euphoria of a job well done, of a good lay, of the right fix, of perfecting something you have worked on forever. Everything boils down to Euphoria. And is anyone really wrong for wanting? For having goals? You might become another person in Euphoria, transfixed in a strange mental trance. This is a magical experience that transports you soul and body to some unique location, and whenever you're finished with the place, you wake up in some random place in Cruel Summer. Hopefully, it's not in the middle of the desert and near one of the stations...Don't be shocked if you wake up sore all over and without your phone or spoon.
The Fox has once called Euphoria the ultimate meeting point between Good and Bad. That Euphoria is what drives everyone at their core whether they want to admit it or not. Euphoria of a job well done, of a good lay, of the right fix, of perfecting something you have worked on forever. Everything boils down to Euphoria. And is anyone really wrong for wanting? For having goals? You might become another person in Euphoria, transfixed in a strange mental trance. This is a magical experience that transports you soul and body to some unique location, and whenever you're finished with the place, you wake up in some random place in Cruel Summer. Hopefully, it's not in the middle of the desert and near one of the stations...Don't be shocked if you wake up sore all over and without your phone or spoon.
Selkie
Despite Cruel Summer's dry heat, the Selkie river cuts through the heart of Cruel Summer with no problem. It never dries, never floods, but instead remains a constant source of steep canyons and clear freshwater. The water is enchanted by the beautiful selkies that swim through the waters, appearing to most as sweet-tempered seals. One might expect selkies in a colder place, but they seem to flourish in Cruel Summer. You will likely never catch a selkie changing out of their skin, but sometimes people have found seal skins drying on rocks and stolen them without realizing the danger. Stealing a selkie skin will not only torment the poor creature, but it will bring enormous misfortune to the thief.
The thief will become progressively obsessed with something or someone in their life and become possessive and violent. The only real way to fix this is to return the skin to the riverside and hope the poor creature can find it once more. Thankfully if you leave the selkies alone, you will have a nice time here! The water is good for drinking and a delight to swim in. It can make one feel rejuvenated and has saved countless lives lost in the desert. There is plenty of fish to catch and plant life along the edges of the river. If you follow the flow of the river, it will take you right into Exile and has been known as a great way to easily find Baba Yaga.
The thief will become progressively obsessed with something or someone in their life and become possessive and violent. The only real way to fix this is to return the skin to the riverside and hope the poor creature can find it once more. Thankfully if you leave the selkies alone, you will have a nice time here! The water is good for drinking and a delight to swim in. It can make one feel rejuvenated and has saved countless lives lost in the desert. There is plenty of fish to catch and plant life along the edges of the river. If you follow the flow of the river, it will take you right into Exile and has been known as a great way to easily find Baba Yaga.
The Details
While conditions are far more extreme in Wintermute and Cruel Summer, there is something far more sinister and intimidating about Exile. The majority of Exile is cloaked in an ominous, dense fog and it is easy to lose your way through the crooked, dark trees. Exile is filled with unusual creatures and beasts and is arguably more dangerous than the wildlands of Cruel Summer because most of these creatures are as intelligent as they are deadly. Exile is not for an amateur. You need rounded skill sets to survive even one night in Exile. No one lives in these marshes and those who have tried often find the ground has moved them out into the nearby desert or rolling hills of Willow. Exile refuses occupants...
Unless the occupant is being punished. There is a reason this land is called "Exile" and that is because it is the home of exiles throughout the known world. If you have ever been exiled in your life, you will find the land accepts you and makes your journey easier. It may provide crooked homes. There are many known beings in Exile who have been in Exile for most of their life, having come to forge a mutual relationship with the land. Many believe that Exile is not a place but an actual living creature, that the trees watch you, the water listens to you, and the air responds to you. Exile is dense with magic and astral energy.
Unless the occupant is being punished. There is a reason this land is called "Exile" and that is because it is the home of exiles throughout the known world. If you have ever been exiled in your life, you will find the land accepts you and makes your journey easier. It may provide crooked homes. There are many known beings in Exile who have been in Exile for most of their life, having come to forge a mutual relationship with the land. Many believe that Exile is not a place but an actual living creature, that the trees watch you, the water listens to you, and the air responds to you. Exile is dense with magic and astral energy.
Typical Weather
Extreme humidity with occasional cold spells.
School
Baba Yaga: Ability/Magic Education
Train Station(s)/Neighborhoods
Obambo Station: Unknown how many miles to Baba Yaga. It is allegedly impossible to live in Exile. There are resting rooms in Baba Yaga, but not dorms.
Swamps Of Sorrow
While there are many swamps in Exile, none are as famous as the Swamps of Sorrow. They sprawl for acres, burping bogs and thick black gunk giving the appearance of tar. Pods of graying grass offer uneven footing for those who try to travel across the swamps. Many skeletons of various creatures can be seen tangled in the trees and calcified in the waters. You may even find perfectly intact, fleshy corpses with a film of strange, smoky matter over their bodies. The air is oppressive and suffocating, and it's easy to get lost in everything you have ever done wrong, in things you regret.
The more that sorrow seeps into your heart, the more you begin to sink into the swamps. The more difficult it is to walk through them. Most lose their lives to the Swamps, sinking into the land and being reclaimed by the water. Only truly optimistic and kind hearts can venture safely through the Swamps of Sorrows and maybe even save companions or other lost souls within. If one confesses to their anguish to another in the swamps, they are able to save themselves, the relief of honesty lightening their burden and allowing them for safe travel.
The more that sorrow seeps into your heart, the more you begin to sink into the swamps. The more difficult it is to walk through them. Most lose their lives to the Swamps, sinking into the land and being reclaimed by the water. Only truly optimistic and kind hearts can venture safely through the Swamps of Sorrows and maybe even save companions or other lost souls within. If one confesses to their anguish to another in the swamps, they are able to save themselves, the relief of honesty lightening their burden and allowing them for safe travel.
Encantado
The main reason people risk traveling through the Swamps of Sorrow or Exile in general comes in the form of the enchanted river Encantado. This river is a stark contrast to Exile, glimmering and flourishing with life. The riverbed glitters with actual jewels and rare stones, valuable for casting magic spells or even just to charm a lover. As you near Encantado, you find anguish leaving you, pain abandons your body, and you are filled with a sense of elation and hope. Massive flowers border the edge of the river and you can hear beautiful, playful music chirping in and out of the water. Strange, pinkish-red dolphins dart in and out of the water. They will playfully squirt water at people, play games with them, and are clearly intelligent creatures.
If you find the river at night, the river is lit up in a variety of colors, and beautiful, naked people dance in excited swells by the riverside. They greet you with hugs and kisses. They beg you to stay, and if you do, you will have a wonderful time...But you may find yourself transforming into a dolphin and joining them in the river, falling to delirious insanity, forgetting who you are or what you were doing before you reached this strange Utopia. People can be brought back by loved ones calling their names. Many go to Encantado for the atmosphere, clean drinking water, and to harvest the jewels from within, but it is wise to keep the visit short and professional and not enjoy it too much.
If you find the river at night, the river is lit up in a variety of colors, and beautiful, naked people dance in excited swells by the riverside. They greet you with hugs and kisses. They beg you to stay, and if you do, you will have a wonderful time...But you may find yourself transforming into a dolphin and joining them in the river, falling to delirious insanity, forgetting who you are or what you were doing before you reached this strange Utopia. People can be brought back by loved ones calling their names. Many go to Encantado for the atmosphere, clean drinking water, and to harvest the jewels from within, but it is wise to keep the visit short and professional and not enjoy it too much.
Vasilisa's
Exile has few amenities, but when the ocean came into existence, so too did a faded restaurant on the shore. Come down the shore from Nereid or through Exile itself. The weather worn outdoor seating is surrounded by tilted lone picket teeth, and the stone path winding its way toward the building is covered in sand. The restaurant itself is on stilts, so that customers must climb wooden steps or wind up the ramp. A large spread of windows face the ocean provides an incredible view, especially at sunset.
Spirits run the restaurant first found empty, but Star Children are welcome to join the staff for a shift or ongoing if they get along with the grumpy octopus spirit chef. The menu is written on a large chalkboard. The regular items stay the same: dishes from places where spirits and Star Children have been exiled from. The specials, however, change regularly. The sea food is especially fresh. Uncertain Star Children are often referred to the fish and chips, fish tacos, and fish stew. In all honesty, there are no wrong choices. There's only a risk that eating the food, whatever one orders, makes one homesick.
Spirits run the restaurant first found empty, but Star Children are welcome to join the staff for a shift or ongoing if they get along with the grumpy octopus spirit chef. The menu is written on a large chalkboard. The regular items stay the same: dishes from places where spirits and Star Children have been exiled from. The specials, however, change regularly. The sea food is especially fresh. Uncertain Star Children are often referred to the fish and chips, fish tacos, and fish stew. In all honesty, there are no wrong choices. There's only a risk that eating the food, whatever one orders, makes one homesick.
The Details
Tides, also known as "Bubble Metropolis", is a massive underwater metropolis surrounded by glass, formed by many different accessible levels. This city floats in the middle of the ocean, slowly bobbing up and down with the actual tides, almost reaching the surface of the water during the day, and practically touching the bottom of the ocean during the night.
Architecture is very oceanic and buildings often look like corals. The city runs fully on magic and clean energy sources such as steam, sun and water. Because of this, the city relies heavily on plants and water, therefor there are many plants and water sources everywhere that keep the air fresh and clean. Some areas even allow the actual ocean to enter through the city for aesthetics or need. While the light is not natural, it sure feels so: the energy used mixed along with Lore allows the place to feel bright and big instead of claustrophobic.
The city itself is massive. It has skyscrapers, there are many shops, restaurants, and tourism seems to be very important. There are many museums, art galleries, small and big theater houses and cinemas, and the general population praises art and imagination. There are plenty of street performers, from music to dance, to acting to painting. Casinos, bars, pubs, and nightclubs are also an important part of this bustling city, which makes Tides City a very energetic place to live in and visit.
For quick and easy transportation, the city uses magnetic suspension trains and passenger capsules, which use electromagnetism to move at a fast speed. It's also possible to rent or buy steam-powered vehicles in the city.
Architecture is very oceanic and buildings often look like corals. The city runs fully on magic and clean energy sources such as steam, sun and water. Because of this, the city relies heavily on plants and water, therefor there are many plants and water sources everywhere that keep the air fresh and clean. Some areas even allow the actual ocean to enter through the city for aesthetics or need. While the light is not natural, it sure feels so: the energy used mixed along with Lore allows the place to feel bright and big instead of claustrophobic.
The city itself is massive. It has skyscrapers, there are many shops, restaurants, and tourism seems to be very important. There are many museums, art galleries, small and big theater houses and cinemas, and the general population praises art and imagination. There are plenty of street performers, from music to dance, to acting to painting. Casinos, bars, pubs, and nightclubs are also an important part of this bustling city, which makes Tides City a very energetic place to live in and visit.
For quick and easy transportation, the city uses magnetic suspension trains and passenger capsules, which use electromagnetism to move at a fast speed. It's also possible to rent or buy steam-powered vehicles in the city.
Typical Weather
Permanently mild. Deeper levels may feel colder.
School
Jewelia Academy: Art Education
Station(s)/Neighborhoods
Bejeweled Port is on the last level of the city, close by Jewelia Academia, and it connects to Nymph Port on land. Lunar Flats and Reef Residences are the local neighborhoods in Tides, and the Nereid is located by the Nymph Port.
Bejeweled & Nymph Port
Bejeweled Port is the only way to reach Tides, and it connects to the land through Nymph Port. Both these ports are run and kept by water Nymphs, and due to the rivalry between fresh-water and salt-water Nymphs, trips between land and Tides can be a bit turbulent and filled with arguing and fin slapping. The method of transportation is small-sized submarines that carry up to 6 people at a time, all driven by said Nymphs.
The Nymph Port is on mainland. It's small and simple and provides constant submarine trips between land and Tides. It's also a fixed point for the House Boats where people of Folkmore may live, but due to its proximity to Cruel Summer, it's a very quiet place to be. There are no shops nearby, and there is no train route either. The Catbus and horses are the most common transportation method to get there.
Bejeweled Port is located at the bottom of Tides City, a walking distance from Jewelia Academia. The entrance of the Port has a gate made out of Lore that prevents water from flooding into the city while allowing the submarines to pass through the gate unharmed. Unlike Nymph Port, this is the heat of Tides and the area around it is bustling with life: there are many different shops and businesses, a lot of street performers, and a lot of people trying to hire fresh blood for their shows, be it theater, dance clubs, or even just models for their paintings.
The Nymph Port is on mainland. It's small and simple and provides constant submarine trips between land and Tides. It's also a fixed point for the House Boats where people of Folkmore may live, but due to its proximity to Cruel Summer, it's a very quiet place to be. There are no shops nearby, and there is no train route either. The Catbus and horses are the most common transportation method to get there.
Bejeweled Port is located at the bottom of Tides City, a walking distance from Jewelia Academia. The entrance of the Port has a gate made out of Lore that prevents water from flooding into the city while allowing the submarines to pass through the gate unharmed. Unlike Nymph Port, this is the heat of Tides and the area around it is bustling with life: there are many different shops and businesses, a lot of street performers, and a lot of people trying to hire fresh blood for their shows, be it theater, dance clubs, or even just models for their paintings.
Passages
One of the wonders of Tides is the possibility to see the amazing ocean creatures. In order to provide more of this, Tides City has a complex maze of tunnels built that allows better viewing of the waters and its living creatures. These tunels are small - fit 3 people at a time - and extremely thick and the glass is a one-way view so it will not disturb the ocean animals with sound, movement and light. The tunnels also connect to several different levels, allowing visitors to access the tunnels at any level of the city.
There are maps throughout the tunnels so no one will get lost while visiting the ocean, and there is also a lot of information on all the species of fish and ocean creatures one may find while walking around.
Small fish spirits travel through these tunnels to give directions if necessary. They will also ensure everyone respects the ocean and its creatures, as well as the city. Anyone found misbehaving will be immediately taken back to the Bejeweled Port and transformed into a mermaid for 3 days. Hopefully, by living in the ocean you will learn to respect it.
There are maps throughout the tunnels so no one will get lost while visiting the ocean, and there is also a lot of information on all the species of fish and ocean creatures one may find while walking around.
Small fish spirits travel through these tunnels to give directions if necessary. They will also ensure everyone respects the ocean and its creatures, as well as the city. Anyone found misbehaving will be immediately taken back to the Bejeweled Port and transformed into a mermaid for 3 days. Hopefully, by living in the ocean you will learn to respect it.
The Whalefall
The Whalefall is an extremely elegant establishment. It will accept anyone through its doors and serve anyone: it's a very trendy bar that also provides pub food and a huge variety of drinks and cocktails. It has a dance floor, working also a disco and karaoke. Those who want something quieter may also enjoy the sitting area outside that gazes into an artificial lake, and then right into the depths of the ocean.
This place also offers adult entertainment, predominantly in the form of striptease or other erotic or exotic dances. Interested patrons may head to the basement level to see the Stripclub. Despite how raunchy it sounds, it's a very serious club: facilities, equipment, furniture and the place itself are of very high quality, and the employers are fairly treated and respected. Several bouncers will ensure everyone's safety.
The Whalefall also provides more private areas, for both private dances and more intense entertainment. This can be from vanilla sexual pleasure to something kinkier. The furniture in the rooms differs with the type of the room - some rooms are meant to bring pure gentleness, and others may be meant for pain. There is no judgement and Patrons may request a mask if they don't want to be seen by anyone else or wish to enjoy themselves anonymously.
This place also offers adult entertainment, predominantly in the form of striptease or other erotic or exotic dances. Interested patrons may head to the basement level to see the Stripclub. Despite how raunchy it sounds, it's a very serious club: facilities, equipment, furniture and the place itself are of very high quality, and the employers are fairly treated and respected. Several bouncers will ensure everyone's safety.
The Whalefall also provides more private areas, for both private dances and more intense entertainment. This can be from vanilla sexual pleasure to something kinkier. The furniture in the rooms differs with the type of the room - some rooms are meant to bring pure gentleness, and others may be meant for pain. There is no judgement and Patrons may request a mask if they don't want to be seen by anyone else or wish to enjoy themselves anonymously.
The Deeps
The Deeps is a study hall created by Jewelia so her Academy students (and non-students, should they dare) can find true inspiration for their art. While it's located near the top of Tides where most natural light would come through, entering the building is like being engulfed by the deep dark ocean. The layout is surprisingly simple—several levels with open layouts with tables large and small but separate rooms for the more involved arts like sculpture, glassblowing, or music—but the walls are entirely made of massive aquariums.
These aquariums contain all sorts of aquatic life can be found—perfect for inspiration. Students can hear the sounds of the ocean, and the more someone focuses on them, the louder they seem. From time to time, Jewelia brings surprising creatures to be seen: creatures from dreams... or nightmares; creatures from the deep or the void; creatures alien or mythical or monstrous. These creatures bring forth The Deeps' true inspiration! Students may interact with them in a safe way (or is it?). Maybe you get to see an Anglerfish or a Gulper Eel... or maybe you get to see the Kraken or Scylla.
Thanks to their presence, the wildest, most astonishing and creative works have been created within the Deeps. If that's not enough or if you dare not face the creatures face to face, psychoactive drugs are available for inspiration. All in the name of art.
Beware! Around Tides and among the nymphs, there is a rumor around that these creatures see deep within your soul to help you recreate it in art. If you look at them for too long, they will latch onto your soul and live deep within, inspiring you forever—but at a price: consuming your soul in return. It's probably not true. Probably.
These aquariums contain all sorts of aquatic life can be found—perfect for inspiration. Students can hear the sounds of the ocean, and the more someone focuses on them, the louder they seem. From time to time, Jewelia brings surprising creatures to be seen: creatures from dreams... or nightmares; creatures from the deep or the void; creatures alien or mythical or monstrous. These creatures bring forth The Deeps' true inspiration! Students may interact with them in a safe way (or is it?). Maybe you get to see an Anglerfish or a Gulper Eel... or maybe you get to see the Kraken or Scylla.
Thanks to their presence, the wildest, most astonishing and creative works have been created within the Deeps. If that's not enough or if you dare not face the creatures face to face, psychoactive drugs are available for inspiration. All in the name of art.
Beware! Around Tides and among the nymphs, there is a rumor around that these creatures see deep within your soul to help you recreate it in art. If you look at them for too long, they will latch onto your soul and live deep within, inspiring you forever—but at a price: consuming your soul in return. It's probably not true. Probably.
The Details
Never Fade is a floating island located south of Encantado river. Reaching it on your own requires wings or other forms of flight, but the Catbus can get there with ease surprisingly. The island is small and has one single village. Local travel is usually done on foot since everything is a walking distance. It's also possible to ask the locals to prepare a goat drawn-carriage — just be careful, the goats might eat your clothes. The same goats keep the foliage trimmed on the steep sides of the mountain and provide wool and milk to the local spirits. They're important and thus very common in Never Fade.
The architecture of Never Fade has many elements of Cycladic design: cube houses with flat roofs and small, narrow windows and doors all clustered at the sides of slopes and hills. The buildings are minimalist and simple but can be extremely colorful or have beautiful vibrant doors and windows. All the buildings are very close together. They seem to be piled on top of each other—at times one house’s roof is another one’s terrace. The village is a maze of small streets, and these streets have so many stairs that they seem an endless maze of sharp angles and drastic climbs.
It's an amazing place to parkour!
Tradition prevails in Never Fade. Technology is rudimentary, and while the locals won't feel threatened by newer technology, they are not impressed by its existence. Instead, they focus on creating everything completely by hand or by old tools advanced worlds would consider obsolete. The craft is very important to the Spirits, sometimes more so than the result.
The architecture of Never Fade has many elements of Cycladic design: cube houses with flat roofs and small, narrow windows and doors all clustered at the sides of slopes and hills. The buildings are minimalist and simple but can be extremely colorful or have beautiful vibrant doors and windows. All the buildings are very close together. They seem to be piled on top of each other—at times one house’s roof is another one’s terrace. The village is a maze of small streets, and these streets have so many stairs that they seem an endless maze of sharp angles and drastic climbs.
It's an amazing place to parkour!
Tradition prevails in Never Fade. Technology is rudimentary, and while the locals won't feel threatened by newer technology, they are not impressed by its existence. Instead, they focus on creating everything completely by hand or by old tools advanced worlds would consider obsolete. The craft is very important to the Spirits, sometimes more so than the result.
Typical Weather
Four seasons with rainy and cold winters, and dry and hot summers.
School
Academy of the Mind
Station(s)/Neighborhoods
Cloud Colonies. No stations. Difficult to reach, using Catbus is advised.
None of the Above
While Never Fade's cycladic architecture and maze-like streets give the village a quaint and charming feel to it, it can be very difficult to move around. To reach the other side of the village is such a hassle that even the Spirits agreed there had to be a better way to move around without distracting goats all the time. Thus, "None of the Above" was born.
None of the Above are a system of tunnels that exists beneath the surface of Never Fade island. They cover all of the island, even reaching the Lavender Institute of Metaphysics, providing a quick, more accessible method of movement across the island.
Some tunnels even allow people to peer out of the bottom of the island and look at Folkmore from above (hopefully you are not afraid of heights). There aren't safety measures in place, so visitors are always warned to be careful and not lean too far... or they might fall off the island.
None of the Above are a system of tunnels that exists beneath the surface of Never Fade island. They cover all of the island, even reaching the Lavender Institute of Metaphysics, providing a quick, more accessible method of movement across the island.
Some tunnels even allow people to peer out of the bottom of the island and look at Folkmore from above (hopefully you are not afraid of heights). There aren't safety measures in place, so visitors are always warned to be careful and not lean too far... or they might fall off the island.
Untouchable
Folkmore is a magical and breathtaking world; a landscape like no other. It has drastically different areas and drastically different climates, and because of its surreal, otherworldly features, it can be as beautiful as it can be scary. But all of this can be seen from above safely through the Untouchable: a popular hot air balloon agency!
This is one of the most sought out tours in Never Fade, and allows visitors to gently drift over Folkmore's ocean, Cruel Summer's deserts, the beautiful town of Epiphany, along the edges of frozen Wintermute, and then over the peaceful Lakes of Willow. While it does not fly directly over Baba Yaga and the swamps of Exile, it returns to Never Fade by going over Encantado river. The diverse colors and the breathtaking views of the flight will make for beautiful photographs and unforgettable memories.
While Untouchable is not a transportation method but an enjoyable voyage across Folkmore, it will pick people up near Folkmore's train stations (with the exception of Akhlut Station in Wintermute, due to weather conditions), and end its journey on Never Fade.
This is one of the most sought out tours in Never Fade, and allows visitors to gently drift over Folkmore's ocean, Cruel Summer's deserts, the beautiful town of Epiphany, along the edges of frozen Wintermute, and then over the peaceful Lakes of Willow. While it does not fly directly over Baba Yaga and the swamps of Exile, it returns to Never Fade by going over Encantado river. The diverse colors and the breathtaking views of the flight will make for beautiful photographs and unforgettable memories.
While Untouchable is not a transportation method but an enjoyable voyage across Folkmore, it will pick people up near Folkmore's train stations (with the exception of Akhlut Station in Wintermute, due to weather conditions), and end its journey on Never Fade.
Farm to Sky
Farm to Sky is the biggest (and the most popular) restaurant in Never Fade. It's very rustic and simple, despite that. Due to the availability of ingredients on a sky island, the menu changes constantly and depends on whatever ingredients were replenished that day. If there is something you loved once, don't expect to find it again. The chef works with whatever ingredients they have, but they often will be able to tell the recipes by heart: understanding how everything was made is the best part of the process.
The restaurant is also known to provide drinks that contain special properties. Not all are drastic: some simply alter the mood a little like coffee would; there are others that may have a much more intense effect like alcohol would. None of these are dangerous and neither cause negative effects on those who have them. Instead, these drinks are designed to help by allowing people to feel happier, relaxed, stress-free, and much more accepting of their inner turmoils. They seem to also offer focus when someone feels lost on decisions they must take.
The restaurant host and its patrons advise those who have tried those drinks to head to the Lavender Institute of the Mind. Thirteen will be the best person to help understand the feelings one might experience.
The restaurant is also known to provide drinks that contain special properties. Not all are drastic: some simply alter the mood a little like coffee would; there are others that may have a much more intense effect like alcohol would. None of these are dangerous and neither cause negative effects on those who have them. Instead, these drinks are designed to help by allowing people to feel happier, relaxed, stress-free, and much more accepting of their inner turmoils. They seem to also offer focus when someone feels lost on decisions they must take.
The restaurant host and its patrons advise those who have tried those drinks to head to the Lavender Institute of the Mind. Thirteen will be the best person to help understand the feelings one might experience.
Shattered Spoon Shrine
Deep within the tunnels of "None of the Above", one will be able to find natural caves that form a maze. As someone walks deeper into those caves, they may get lost or even die due to different dangers: sudden falls, sharp rocks, completely water-filled tunnels... or simply the lack of food or clean water if someone is lost in there for too long. The biggest danger, however, are the voices that call for others, whispering their names.
Those who follow the voices will come face to face with lost spirits. These are ghosts of those who have lost all of their lore -due to absolute and complete isolation- and thusly resulted in them losing their sense of self and cognitive ability. Some are just a blur, barely even seen by those around them, but none of them can physically interact with those around them or their environment. If anyone dares to follow these spirits around, they will eventually be directed to a secret shrine: Shattered Spoon Shrine.
In this shrine, NPCs often leave offerings to spirits who have left, that became shells of themselves (from lack of lore), or to ghosts. Their spoons are left at the Shrine and people hope by visiting and interacting with these lost spoons, Lore can be transfered into the ghosts and lost spirits, and bring them back to Folkmore. There is also the rumor that if a Star Child places a spoon of those who have left in the Shrine, and give it lore, they may be able to bring someone back to Folkmore.
Those who follow the voices will come face to face with lost spirits. These are ghosts of those who have lost all of their lore -due to absolute and complete isolation- and thusly resulted in them losing their sense of self and cognitive ability. Some are just a blur, barely even seen by those around them, but none of them can physically interact with those around them or their environment. If anyone dares to follow these spirits around, they will eventually be directed to a secret shrine: Shattered Spoon Shrine.
In this shrine, NPCs often leave offerings to spirits who have left, that became shells of themselves (from lack of lore), or to ghosts. Their spoons are left at the Shrine and people hope by visiting and interacting with these lost spoons, Lore can be transfered into the ghosts and lost spirits, and bring them back to Folkmore. There is also the rumor that if a Star Child places a spoon of those who have left in the Shrine, and give it lore, they may be able to bring someone back to Folkmore.