deercountry | there's a monster in my closet

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there's a monster in my closet

MAY 2022 EVENT

IMAGE DESCRIPTORS IN ORDER OF APPEARANCE
Prompt One
[Image One: Half man, half goat gazing through the sky in front of mountain.]
[Image Two: Deer-like skeletal creature talking in a forest.]

Prompt Two
[Image One: Bees crawling out of and over a calm man's cheek.]
[Image Two: Humanoid figure with honeycomb skin.]

Prompt Three
[Image One: Skull beside dried flowers.]
[Image Two: Red wilting flowers. ]

[NAVIGATION]

Prompt 1 • Prompt 2 • Prompt 3 • Plotting • Newsletter

[JUMP TO COMMENTS]

SELF EVALUATION

WHEN: May
WHERE: Everywhere
CONTENT WARNINGS: Body horror, heavy themes of dysphoria and body dysmorphia, acceptance of self, forced physical transformations.

An excerpt from Book of Bausphomette:

"They say you should walk a mile in someone's shoes before casting judgment. The true rhetoric can be applied to Bausphomette's version of 'self-evaluation.' It shouldn't come as a surprise that a Pthumerian would have a very different idea of self-evaluation than the typical person, but here we are and I'm going to give you a heads up: don't freak out about the fur.

Or scales. Really, it could be anything, but when your body starts to change into something you can't recognize, you're not going crazy and you're not turning into a Beast. Or okay, you're turning into a beast but not a Beast with a capital B. You will be yourself, have your normal personality, your normal thoughts, your normal habits...You just...Won't exactly look like yourself. People have been known to turn into minotaurs or sprout ten wings or become half-goat on top and all fish on the bottom. Either way, you're not going to be physically recognizable.

But you will be yourself. You will just have new vocal cords or have to learn a new means of communication. Telling your loved ones about your sudden transformation might be a bit alarming, but I think that's kind of the point. Bausphomette seems to believe the monstrous transformation will allow people to consider different parts of themselves that are usually hindered by social judgments. Are you really happy with yourself enough to not mind being a beast? How does this impact your relationship with your body? Does your body matter to you as much as you believed? Can you adapt to this new body and come to love it?

Granted, not everyone has hated this process. It has made some parts of life especially exciting...If you know what I mean. Thankfully the process doesn't last! The general idea is that once you have accepted something about yourself you will begin to turn back to your usual body! Of course, for more stubborn folks, this has been known to take a few months...Try not to be too stubborn or resistant to the new change! ...It will only make it worse."

QUICK FACTS 1. Your character can have various monstery attributes during May. They should be monsterous - not cute little ears or a non-distracting tail.

2. The lesson the characters learn can vary greatly and depend on what players choose to explore.

3. Feel free to go as heavy-handed with the body horror. Your character can magically just wake up with the body or go through some painful transformation.

4. Characters should NOT have mental alteration during this period. The point is that they are still themselves regardless of their new appearance.

5. Have the size of the beast be appropriate to the setting's size.

6. Temporary powers can be gained through the beast's body for the month. Do not break the setting.

HUMMING IN THE SKIN

WHEN: May
WHERE: Everywhere
CONTENT WARNINGS: Increased bouts of mindless violence, optional insect-based horror, insects in skin, honeycomb in skin, bodies as hives for insects, extreme body horror.

An old article clipping was gathered from a newspaper that used to run in Trench. It seems like the rest of the article is missing except for the end:

"And, he said, "They will say that I have shed innocent blood. What's blood for, if not for shedding?"

We do not know what this Sleeper's intent was, but we do know the impact lasted. Reports of symptoms include feeling as though your skin is humming, that there's itchiness you can't quite get rid of like something is always crawling over your skin and around inside of you. Some people claim that this remains a mental only terror that keeps them up at night. Some have been known to scratch open holes in their skin and pull themselves apart just to make sure they aren't filled with bugs. We wish we could say that it was only a paranoid curse, but it seems there is some foundation to the concern.

Some who have gotten cuts or other injuries at this time will discover various insects, but especially bees crawling out from exposed wounds. Once you have gotten an injury, the humming seems to get worse. A descent to madness happens swiftly, but all at once, you become calm and content with the situation. Your skin slowly becomes honeycombed, bees moving in and out of you freely. You become a walking, talking hive.

But of course, that's just the worst-case scenario. For the most part, people who are itching mindlessly seem to be driven to bouts of violence, wanting to get rid of the feeling by randomly attacking those nearby. Strangely enough, the bloodshed during these attacks does not seem to contribute to blood pollution.

Instead, blood shed during this time of month seems to be instantaneously soaked up by your immediate surroundings. The bees from these people have been seen flying everywhere, and instead of collecting pollen, they seem to be collecting blood magic. Either to bring it back to their walking hives or using it for other deeds..."

IMPOSTERS

WHEN: May-June
WHERE: Outside where flowers can be found
CONTENT WARNINGS: Demonic, violent, blood thirsty flowers?? Parasite style monsters.

From Plantlife and You: Trench Edition:

"This is a tricky subject as it does not technically have to do with actual plantlife but rather the nefarious imitation of plantlife.

As spring begins be cautious of the plants around you. It might be lovely to see tulips popping open and other spring delights coming to light. We all like to see the splashes of color pop up around Trench, especially after such cold, long months...But be wary.

Among these flowers are insidious imposters. Telling them apart from the original flowers is almost impossible. You can only do your best to be careful around any plantlife you interact with. They look like flowers, but these creatures are demonic beasts who have perfectly cultivated a flawless mimic. Instead of sunlight and water, they soak in the blood of Trench up through their roots. If you pick the wrong flower, blood will squirt out from the roots and vines.

The bees from Sleeper bodies seem intent on pollinating these exact flowers with blood, leaving little bloody streaks in their wake, but the bees jump between normal flowers and the imposters, making it difficult to properly figure out which is which.

I know what you're thinking: okay, so what? They eat blood, big deal, they are just flowers...

Ha! Did you really think it would be that simple? No, no, these imposters will invade your gardens and your homes. Their little vines will wrap around your foot when you're in the garden or taking a walk. It's not evident at first, but it doesn't take much for a flower to grow on your body. Harmless, painless, but they will suck your blood dry. They have been known as silent killers, parasitic, draining you of life and energy and magic slowly but surely.

And the catch is once you have one flower growing on you, more will come, and it can distort your personality and make you feel or act as though you are drunk. Things won't make sense and you won't exactly know how to ask for help. Your only luck is that someone else will notice. Taking the flowers off requires an icy bath or shower and some serious salt scrub. To prevent this in general, you will want to keep your skin covered thoroughly and not allow pollen to brush against you since that's all it takes. Good luck!"

CODING

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A break it is!

[ The demon smiles. He may not be familiar with the area, but with some help, the two cross upon a Cafe. Coffee isn't cheap. However, Chin Yisou doesn't care- good food deserves good trade.

The demon takes some scones and coffee. Once the party is ready, Chin Yisou is sure to get scones for the run. ]

Never know where we'll end up with a hungry belly.

[ He adds with a smile. As before, Chin Yisou follows along his fellow investigator. Lazarus seems to know the best path to navigate Trench. This is much appreciated . Chin Yisou thinks with a smile.

Once they reach the small shop of Odds End, the demon stops to wonder.]

Do you think it wise to ask about the antlers?

[L operates largely on stray cat rules. He fends for himself and seems a little mangy and isn't always in a position to reject free food, but does, when it's not to his precise tastes.

Cafes are usually safe. Scones are safer, regardless of where they're from. He eats one as they go, walking a sure path as one who has investigated various cases on various twisting and turning streets throughout this city.

Once at Odds End, he glances sidelong at his companion.]

Let's have a look around first; people lie, and what we can see for ourselves is always going to be untainted by that kind of misdirection or bias.

Much agreed.

[ His fellow investigator makes a valid point. We can't really trust people, can we? After all, there may be a chance that no one has heard of N.P. before. As the two rummage through the antiques and odd haunted artifacts, the demon notices something above Lazarus's head. ]

Antler

Well, that's interesting.

[ The demon points towards the mounted antler. He scans for any other clues. However, he falls short. ]

There must be more clues around here. Have you found anything?

[Even though Chin Yisou fails to eye other pertinent details, his friend experiences a stroke of luck. While perusing through various items, Lazarus comes across a hidden note. Yet, he must have noticed the wary eyes of a stocky merchant.

(ooc. Have fun sharing your find! :D ) ]

[L glances up above his own temporarily-present horns and the heat hovering around his head, toward the impressive antler hanging from the wall.

He lays upon the first object to catch his eye: a rabbit's foot on a keychain with a small antler engraved.]

This seems promising. It's on-theme, at least. Head-to-toe... I wonder if that's relevant.

[There's a drawer in the vanity on which the rabbit's foot is set, and L, on a whim, opens it. There's a note, alright, and it's just a compass rose with a smiley face on it.]

What I think is that the antlers are north... as the head... and the foot is meant to represent south. We don't have east or w-- hello.

[The merchant sure is watching them closely. So blatantly that L sort of has to greet him, after a certain point.

L's great at not greeting people; it really was pressing.]

Fascinating...

[ Chin Yisou begins to say. He's thrown off by the stranger. The demon attempts to be as polite and inconspicuous as possible. While walking in front of the note, he deems to help Lazarus pocket the find. ]

Mr. Grousse

[ The merchant casts a wary look. With a booming voice he dismisses Lazarus's greeting as a feeble effort to stay out of trouble. ]

What are ye doing, o'er thar?

[ The demon raises a hand to his heart. ]

Simply browsing Sir.

[ The burly man lifts a brow. He peeks at Lazarus. The sight of the two 'customers' leads the merchant to suspicion. ]

I don't think I reckon seein' ye two befor'. What brings ye to Odds End?

[ Chin Yisou casts an eye at his fellow investigator. He seems to wonder what they should say. It wouldn't look good to fight...then again, we could both probably take him. The demon muses over the possible outcomes. He cannot be too sure that the crude compass is the only item they need.]

[L winces; he wouldn't have advised stealing it, but here they are. Probably better to go with it, now that this is the situation.]

Do Sleepers make worse customers in your experience?

[He's stalling for time, of course. More time is always a boon.]

Cw: Creepy Crawlies

[ The merchant scoffs. He crosses his arms in discontent. ]

Aye, they be some of the pesky buggers to come in me shop.

[ While Lazarus takes to converse with the grumpy man, the demon's eyes turn towards a new approach. Perhaps...it's important... While recalling the book in the archives, Chin Yisou can't help but to wonder...]

Especially that one. I'm not sure if either of ye are acquainted with him but I'll be damned if ye are! He's quite the rascal. Some days, he'll trade with ye then the next, come back to steal what he gave!

[ The old merchant shakes his head. While he's distracted with the topic, the demon summons his insects. He manages the swarm to approach at the side of the merchant. ]

The bloody hell is this?

[ The merchant panics and screams. He stomps at the pesky insects. Chin Yisou jumps for the antler and grabs it down. He places a hand on his fellow investigator. ]

I guess it's time to leave.

[ The demon smiles with a wicked grin. He heads towards the other aisle and walks straight to the door. He can hear the merchant cry and curse the two. Regardless, Chin Yisou continues to dart until they can find a nice place to chat. ]

[Though L might look demonic at this point in time, he's used to dealing with things as a human would, and then like a human who is not particularly strong or powerful. He's no great charismatic leader, but diplomacy attempts tend to go better for him than attempts at intimidation or charm.

Chin Yisou has a different approach in mind, clearly. A swarm of bugs gathers together, seemingly completely spontaneously, and quite understandably panics the shopkeeper.

Light as a breeze, the demon proceeds to just shoplift the antler. Eyes wide, but recognizing an opportunity, L nods and makes haste to follow, now that he's an accessory to theft whether he wants to be or not.]

They're not dangerous, are they?

[He really doesn't want to be an accessory to murder. Crooked as he can be, he tries to draw the line at murder.]

Oh, they can be.

The demon gives a wicked grin.

I only had them provide a means of distraction. So, there's no need to be alarmed.

At times, Chin Yisou has to conflict with some of his old impulses. Yet, after being in good company, the demon is only interested in killing if it's a matter of life and death. He waves his hands in a circular motion.

There, now they should be gone. So, do you have that note?

Seeing that no N.P. is in sight, the demon believes their suggestion to be more accurate. The pirate deems for them to find the missing antler!

[O.o.c: Sorry for the delay friend! Was away and finishing up my next book. Hope your summer is going well! Stay blessed and creative :D ]

[Desperation as a reason for murder is one that L can understand, however much he might be personally opposed to killing on principle. In the meantime, he's relieved, disliking the shopkeeper but certainly not wishing death upon the man.

He nods, producing the note, though he's memorized it.]

I count two, in a full set. I'm sure you've realized as much, as well.

[OOC: omg do not even worry, this month has murdered me.]

[ Chin Yisou nods in agreement. The next question now is... ]

Where shall we begin the search?

[ The demon taps his chin. ]

Did you see any mark on the makeshift map?

[ When reviewing the parchment, the two investigators can see a faint dot on the page. Lazarus can recall his prior analysis in regards to direction. The dot indicates "west." Though without any other clue, that is a broad range to investigate. ]

[L considers the compass rose, the implications he has access to with the information they already have. Even if it's precious little, all things considered, world-class detectives can do much with few details and little context, and just the littlest bit of observation and deduction.]

There was a mark, which I believe to indicate "west".

[They both understand, he's sure, that it covers a swathe of territory that is hardly easy to narrow down in scope.

He lets his mind wander the way he does in the Archives, freeing it for associations outside of the box.]

It's a "set" of antlers, and west is where the Sun "sets." Since we're looking for the "full set", I'd think it would have something to do with night. The nightlife, a night walker, or... Sleepytown, perhaps.

[ The demon muses over Lazarus's train of thought. Fascinating! He ponders on the clues discussed.]

What's the farthest point towards the west?

[ Chin Yisou retrieves his map for an answer. While unraveling the parchment, he smiles. ]

The location you spoke of, would be the most logical with that reasoning. I must say, I'm impressed with your ability to answer riddles!

[ The demon is beyond himself with excitement for the investigation. We do have a shot! To solve the mystery at hand and obtain the treasure fills him with a youthful delight. ]

Well... I've been doing it long enough that perhaps you shouldn't be, but thank you, in any case, for the praise.

[L's poor at receiving compliments, as a general rule. He's trying lately to make modesty sound less false, and self-deprecation less truly pathetic and hopeless, when he wears them.]

I've never been out that way, if you can believe it. I'm not sure about the lamp routes, but... I know for a fact that there's a path. Possibly danger, as well.

I see. Being modest are we?

[ He chuckles lightly. Chin Yisou enjoys the investigation and to go to a new region is delightful. He returns his view to the map in his bag. While scanning its points- Chin Yisouruns a finger along the road markings. ]

Looks like we could cut straight across to Sleepy Town. Hamlet's Crossings and an Abandoned Road. Perhaps the danger you mention would be there.

[ Chin Yisou provides a smile. ]

Don't worry, I'll have your back if anyone starts trouble.

[ The demon returns the map to his bag. He looks towards the needed path with an eager look. Maybe we'll find him. He thinks. Yet, with more riddles it seems that N.P. prefers being elusive. Chin Yisou sighs. ]

Are you ready?

Not intentionally.

[Maybe he's born with it.]

I'd rather we didn't meet with trouble, and the need didn't arise at all, but... thank you. That means a lot, actually.

[He wonders how well he can fend for himself in this form, but even if he's quite powerful, rivaling a real demon like Chin Yisou, he hasn't had a lifetime getting used to it to have a decent handle on the skillset.]

I'm as ready as I'll ever be. It should take forty minutes, I'd think, as the crow flies.

You're welcome, fellow investigator.

[ Chin Yisou smiles. He places a palm above his heart. ]

I promise to stay out of mischief.

[ With a delighted sigh, the demon turns towards the road. ]

Forty minutes...that's not too bad.

[ The two push onward for their journey. The air is calm. As they near the crossroad at The Abandoned Road and the Quiet Passage, a stirring is heard from the forest. The demon turns his gaze towards the trees. ]

Looks like we may have company.

[ Chin Yisou readies a mahjong tile just in case of combat. He looks at Lazarus in efforts to see whether or not he is alarmed. As the sound grows louder the two see... ]

Prompt One

[ A startled hare jumps into the road. ]

Prompt Two

[ A large dirwolf scrambles out of the woods. It's eyes appear distant and it's mouth foams from illness. ]

Three does make company, doesn't it?

[He says so a little dryly, with a little exasperation in his tone, but it's frosted with the breathlessness of appreciating his companion and the adventure they've found.

The glint of that fades, somewhat, when a maybe-rabid dirwolf staggers out of the underbrush. His palm is filled with fire the moment it appears, but it's not, he thinks, a humane way to dispatch a creature even if he was practiced in such matters.]

Your affinity for insects... how small are the creatures you can control?

[He wonders if a parasitic infection might be to blame for this animal's behavior.]

[ While watching the wolf approach with a rabid glare, Chin Yisou readies his hand with mahjong counters. His attention is distracted by a question. He turns his head towards Lazarus. Shouldn't we act quick? Regardless of the thought, the demon smiles. ]

My centipedes are fairly small at the moment. But that means I can call upon many. Do you have a plan?

[ The demon's eyes return to the wolf. He wants to keep the animal in check. At least, to bide some time. ]

Can you tell if there's a parasitic infection responsible for the animal's behavior and command the organisms to vacate its body? If not...

[A foot slides back as the wolf continues to advance. He hates needless death, but accepts that sometimes it's necessary.]

[ The thought intrigues the demon. Why look for a way to save something so...beyond help? Chin Yisou shakes his head no. While he readies to pull more centipedes from the shadows, the demon watches as Lazarus takes action. ]

Don't get bit!

[ The rabid animal snarls. Its eyes target Lazarus with a deranged hunger. Even as the centipedes cling to its fur, the beast is mobile. ]

[L is less "taking action" and more "creating more space between the rabid beast and himself through retreat." Either way, it seems to have done more harm than good, and the creature continues to advance even with the centipedes hanging from it.

Spontaneously and unexpectedly, a bush catches on fire near the wolf. L's demonic form does more than just look hellish, but it's a question of how much he can control it.]

[ The demon stands back. He watches with a grim delight as the beast overturns in flames. The rabid animal retreats- eager to alleviate the burns across its body. However, from a distance, the two can see the beast collapse to the ground. ]

Don't worry.

[ Chin Yisou places a consoling hand on his friend's shoulder. He, may be upset. The demon observes. ]

It's better for them to have rest.

[ The demon stands with a sympathetic look. What he doesn't want is to cause offense. ]

Burning is a terrible way to go, and I wouldn't have preferred for it to suffer.

[He's upset, just a little, but he hides it well. He's had to hide his distress at the deaths of human beings, after all.]

At any rate, it seems like our problem is solved, so we should be able to continue.

I see.

[ Chin Yisou frowns. He sympathizes with Lazarus. As the continue through the forested path, the demon falls silent. His eyes glance from the trail to the other. I wonder if he feels a little better. Before Chin Yisou can decide whether or not to ask, a note appears. There, nailed to a tree is a weathered envelope. ]

Could this be a trap?

[ He wonders out-loud. As the two observe the envelope, they will see that its been there for a while. The demon tugs at the mysterious object and it rips free from the nail. ]

Do you think, we're being followed?

[ Chin Yisou asks his fellow investigator. Although the parchment is worn from the elements, he cannot be too sure that the sender is far away. ]

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hearthebell - 2022-11-30 03:25 (UTC) - Expand

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thevengefuldoll - 2022-11-30 16:24 (UTC) - Expand

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there's a monster in my closet

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TWO

Re: TWO

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