Valkyrie - Ember's Cauldron Shopping Event

“Hlanhildur, Daughter of the Gods”. A warrior maiden, a divine being, whose noble duty is to select and bring her chosen heroes, killed in battle, to Valhalla. Yet, when she joined the group of Valkyrie apprentices, nobody told her openly about the race of the heroes she would accompany to the table of Odin. She just presumed they would be human. When Hlanhildur finished her Valkyrie training her first mission was to fly to a battlefield in darkest Dwarfheim, and bring back the soul of the bravest... bear, that fell while defending his homeland from the invading dwarves. Hlanhildur sighed. Today was the day of the great battle between the High Elves and Dragons... and she was not ordered to choose the soul of an Elven warrior.

The fantastic „Filling The Cauldron” fundraising event for Elicio Ember might be over, but please don’t forget that many creators still participate in the „Ember’s Cauldron” shopping event until 16^th April, and they still offer beautiful donation items created in support of Elicio!

For more information read the blog entry by Charlie (Lerochelle Destiny), owner of .:Soul:. and promoter of the event.

Donation items:

Gown: „Red Fire Gown” by MacMoragh an Gabha – 200 L$. The picture doesn’t do justice to the long red-and-black gown and the flowing cape, an outfit worthy to a Valkyrie! Laird Fenn, the creator and owner of MacMoragh an Gabha is a seasoned warrior and a proud Scotsman… who might have ever thought that he can sew, too…? :-)

Horns: „Pernkern Herns” in Ember Coal by Soul – 299 L$. The pack includes four different styles, so if the burning coal is too dramatic for you, you can pick „Ash”, „Smoke” or „Steam”.

Other items:

Skin: „Catalina” in Cream by Soul – 899 L$. „Catalina” is a beautiful Generation 1 skin you cannot get bored with, and luckily it is still available in many natural and fantasy tones on the second floor of Charlie’s flagship shop.

Hair with headband: „Freya” in Blacks and Whites by Calico Ingmann – 250 L$ for an “All Colors” fatpack, which is a real bargain!

Tattoo: „Aralia” in Silver by Fallen Gods Inc. – an old gacha item currently unavailable, part of the “Birth of Lumina” series. Alia Baroque has temporarily retired the set as he is preparing an update with appliers, so there is hope these items will return to the FGInc shop at Selidor.
Eye makeup and lashes: „Venom Shadow” in Red by Vengeful Threads – 99 L$. The „Venom Shadow” series is an exclusive product for the DarkSide2 Fashion Fair, and it is a real bargain for 99 L$ as you get 13 :-) eyelid shades with long witchy black lashes for „Oldie” system heads like mine, and for „modern” Omega/Catwa heads as well. The DarkSide2 Fashion Fair is open until 30th April, so you still have a few days to pick up your Venom Shadow… or any other spectacular makeup set by Vengeful Threads.

Wings: „Devine Wings” by Death Row Designs – not available for the time being, as the DRD shop is being rebuilt.

Ears: „Uni Ears” High Elf by Soul – 499 L$.

Bracelets: „Dragonborn” in Silver by Alegria – a previous Fantasy Faire item not available any more.

Nails: “Long Prim Nails” in Black by Candy Nail – not available any more.

Sword: „Themis” by Ersch – a previous gacha item not available anymore; however, if you visit the shop, you can find many other gacha machines from earlier faires and events.

Eyes: „DragonEyes” in Fiery Vision by Sterling Artistry – 65 L$.

Pose: “Imago Anatopism 4” by Alpha Tribe and Mimesis Monday – gift from a previous installation.

The picture was taken at Memento Mori.

Wild Winged Creatures - Ember's Cauldron Shopping Event

 

The raven knew. Its smart beady eyes looked at his mistress with a mixture of pity and amusement. Fairies were sooo... fragile, compared to a freshly hatched raven chicken. Yet, the raven couldn’t abandon the Lady Anen to her fate. He was her familiar spirit, and that was it. The raven cawed and hoped that the Lady Anen could hear him through the blizzard that chilled her blood and roughed her up, brutally and painfully. The raven could see the ancient oak through the veil of wildly swirling snowflakes... the Oak, the asylum and sanctuary for all winged creatures great and small in The Forest. “She will do it... she reminds me of my firstborn, Qreeth... a cheeky lil fellow...” – thought the raven, and flapped his wings in encouragement.

The fantastic „Filling The Cauldron” fundraising event for Elicio Ember might be over, but please don’t forget that many creators still participate in the „Ember’s Cauldron” shopping event until 16^th April, and they still offer beautiful donation items created in support of Elicio!

For more information read the blog entry by Charlie (Lerochelle Destiny), owner of .:Soul:. and promoter of the event.

Donation items:

Mask: “Ember’s Mask Greater” by Laudanum Lollipops – 200 L$ (the package contains another, smaller mask as well, so it’s a real bargain).

Tattoo: “Elegant Ember” in Peacock by Even-Tide – 100 L$; take your time to check out the other delicately coloured versions (“Dusk”, “Dream” and “Ember”) too, they are all lovely!

Other items:

Skin: “Catalina” in Cream by Soul – this is a system skin; for the state-of-the-art appliers please visit the shop.

Eyes: “Feral Eyes” in Regal by Sterling Artistry – 65 L$.

Hair: “Editorial: Eastern Wind” in Funky by Tableau Vivant – a previous gacha item now available in the main shop, 75 L$ per play.

Antlers: “Winter Lights” in Plum by Tayren’s Fantasy Fashions – gacha in the shop, 50 L$ per play.

Sparklers: “Starry Night” Flakes by Tableau Vivant – from a previous gacha hair series not available any more.

Petal mask: “Breaking Apart” by Tableau Vivant – part of an old prop set not available any more.

Shoulder pet: part of the outfit called “Nevermore” by Montagne Noire – 25 L$.

The Sea Witch - "Filling The Cauldron" Event

Lorelei Blackwave, the lonely sea witch stood on the seashore and she was very sad. She had been exiled from her home under the sea so many years before that she almost forgot how the lights used to dance on the corals and how she used to play with the tame fish. An elaborate incantation went wrong, terribly wrong... and the council of the surviving sea witches and warlocks unanimously decided that she had to leave. She used her incantations on Earth plants ever since, she grew an entire forest of never-seen creatures around the little cave where she lived... but each and every evening, at sunset, she went as close to the salty waves as the ban curse permitted, and whispered goodnight to the deep silent waters.

Many items are from the “Filling the Cauldron – Ember’s Cauldron” event; and while you can shop for “Ember’s Cauldron” until 19^th April, the “Filling The Cauldron” event ends this weekend, on 9^th April, so hurry up before the kiosks and the exhibition at Holly Kai Park disappear!

Donation items:

Skin: “Cosmic Snake” by Fallen Gods Inc. (990 L$), a “Filling the Cauldron – Ember’s Cauldron” donation item. Alia Baroque has decided to make a unique exception and release this skin (a special thank you gift that was previously available only to the participants of the annual Fallen Gods photo contest in 2015) to the public, in order to help Elicio. It really is a unique opportunity to grab this amazing and exclusive skin during the “Filling The Cauldron” event and also in the FGInc. shop until 19^th April!

Head jewel: “Vaeri Headchain” by Lumae for the “Ember’s Cauldron” event – 100 L$.

Gown: “Whistles – Poesia dei fiori” in Purple, an exclusive colour for the “Ember’s Cauldron” event by Faida and Fallen Gods Inc. – 260 L$.

Other items:

Ears: “High Elf” Uni Ears by Soul – 499 L$.

Hair No. 1 (the hanging part): “The Flutterbee Hair” by Olive in Bubblegum – a gacha item not available any more.

Hair No. 2 (the flying part): “Tempest” by Tableau Vivant – a gacha item not available any more.

Eyes: “Dragon Eyes Golden Sight” by Sterling Artistry – 65 L$.

Jewellery: “Revenge” bangles and crown by Luas (modified) – 100 L$.

“Double Hagoromo” in Gold by Aii The Ugly And Beautiful (modified) – 99 L$.

Sparkling Mermaid

Spindrift Flotsam Leaper was a treasure-collector, gathering finds from the beach and ocean and creating caches of interesting and beautiful objects. When she was in good mood (which she was often), she leaped alongside the prows of boats, and cheered up the sailors immensely. They adored her long wavy seafoam hair, the sparkling blue skin, the opulent jewellery... until one day a greedy seaman had the idea that those lovely baubles would look better on his plain human wife. He reached for his harpoon... Spindrift jumped into the air, frightened and deluded, then plunged back into the ocean, and no mortal eye has ever seen her again.

Two fantasy markets are about to close their gates soon, so this is a last-minute notice again. :) The splendid deep blue skin is a current offer by Fallen Gods Inc. at the monthly We Love RP shopping event, together with the long Electra hair in many colour packs. The strikingly beautiful "Mata Hari" jewellery set is on sale at The Secret Affair.

Skin: Draco Odyssey/Laguna by Fallen Gods Inc. - 590 L$ at We Love RP. There are 10 male and female versions available (scaled/smooth, with/without tattoo marks, snake scales), the full pack is 1980 L$.

Hair: "Electra" in Merfolk by Entwined Hair - 185 L$ at We Love RP.

Eyes: "Dragon Eyes" in Mystic Crystal by Sterling Artistry - 85 L$.

Ornamented Hair Chain "Tribal" (Common), Chest Lace with Chains (Rare), Dancer Jewels "Blooming" (Common), Epaulettes "Tribal" (Common) - "Mata Hari" gacha prizes by Devious Mind - 75 L$ per play at The Secret Affair, running until 29th January.

Tiara: part of the "Revenge" jewellery set by Luas - 100 L$ on the Marketplace.

The picture was taken in the magical underwater garden at Ode.

World Goth Fair 2014 - Dark Wings

She landed in an unknown realm, wet and dark... which she found pleasant and unpleasant at the same time. She adored darkness, it was her natural element... but all that rain? She shivered as she felt her black feathers were already glued together. How should she fly now, and stalk her prey? Yet, she knew she had no other choice whatsoever. The Dark Lord was her commander and she was to obey his orders, no matter what. She shivered for a second longer, then she clicked her talons and spread her heavy black wings. The hunt for the lost soul was on.

Greetings, ye dark creatures lurking in the shadows! You still have a few days to visit The World Goth Fair and pick up this dramatic tattoo by Fallen Gods, together with another great piece of skin art called "Widow". .... well, spread your wings, too, and flap away! :)

Skin: "Siggy Lumiere" by Essences, for the The Dressing Room Fusion - 70 L$.

Tattoo: "Tarantula" by Fallen Gods for the World Goth Fair, Donation Item for the Sophie Lancaster Foundation - 380 L$.

Ears: "Simple Elf Ears" by Mandala - 307 L$.

Wings: "Devine Wings" in Raven by Death Row Designs- 100 L$.

Claws: "Demon Hands" Female by Death Row Designs- 60 L$.

Lips: "Rival Black" by Glamorize - 1 L$.

Hair: "Siiri" in Black by EMO-tions - 245 L$ for a Black-and-White pack.

Eyes: "Feral Eyes" in Heavens by Sterling Artistry- 65 L$.

Armbands: part of the "Narke" outfit in Black by RunoRuno- 100 L$.

Pasties: "Muka Zombie Pasties" - part of an old hunt gift by Muka.

Pose: "SloMo Girlie" by Del May- 50 L$.

The picture was taken in the H220 sim, still wet and still wonderful. :)

World Goth Fair 2014 - My Humble Abode

She was put at the entrance of the mansion more than a century ago. The then reigning baron was an art lover, quite proud of his impeccable taste: he had found the statue of the slender woman in the studio of a young Parisian sculptor, talented but not well-known enough to earn a meal by his art. The statue witnessed the flow of house guests, arriving in large groups at first… then, as the baron lost money and power, the guests became fewer and fewer, until they didn’t come any more. These days the only visitors were the wild animals from the nearby forest. “Welcome to my humble abode! I hope you will enjoy your stay!” – the statue whispered to a curious deer, and the rusty iron creaked as the gate swung open.

We hardly said goodbye to the wonderful Fantasy Faire, and there is another event to save us (“us” meaning “creatures with a darker streak to their character”) from boredom – the World Goth Fair. You may happily while away your hours strolling from booth to booth in the three sims, but please don’t forget that it is also a charity event in benefit of The Sophie Lancaster Foundation. You may read about the history of the foundation and their work IRL on their homepage.

Dress: “Annabel Lee” in Onyx by Fosca de Les Encantades – available in the WGF Port Seraphine sim (100 L$). I love the extreme silhouette of the corset, it’s very à la Poe and very 19^th Century Noir!

Necklace: “Iron Cross Necklace” in Gray by LaNoirSoleil – available in several colours in the WGF Port Seraphine sim (147 L$).

Filigree nails: “Tactum Mortis” in Black Necritol by LaNoirSoleil – available in various colours in the WGF Port Seraphine sim (147 L$). “Tactum Mortis” means “Touch of Death” and it is an amazing filigree nail/finger extension thingy, a combination of delicate metal vines and a razor sharp, elegant claw available in several colours.

Face chain: “Maev Chains” in Black by Axix – available at the Fantasy Gacha Fair (50 L$ per play).

Tiara/headphone: Tuner/Headphone in Black by ANC - – available at the Fantasy Gacha Fair (50 L$ per play). It is quite a surprising item to find among shoulder pet dragons and various pieces of fantasy armour, but – thanks to the tiara-like upper part – the style quite fits in.

Skin: “Lacrimosa Weeping” by Fallen Gods – this wonderful “stony” skin was a donation item at the Fantasy Faire, now available at the main shop in Selidor (800 L$ for one of the four versions – Epitaph, Weeping, Mausoleum or Crack, 2,200 L$ for a fatpack).

Lips: Glamorize – Rival Black Combo (1 L$).

Eye makeup: White Widow – an old hunt gift not available any more.

Hair: “Carlie” by Damselfly – a free gift at the Fantasy Gacha Fair that comes with a colour HUD.

Eyes: “January Ice” by Sterling Artistry – an old group gift not available any more, but "Gilded Field" from the DailyEyes series looks quite similar (85 L$).

Pose: Izumiya – free gift in the main shop (0 L$).

The picture was taken in the H22O sim, a new (and very wet :)) build by Squonk Levenque.

Fantasy Faire 2014 - The Wind In Her Hair

Míwil Delimbiyra adored flying. She could never understand her elven brothers and sisters who always opted for a much more traditional way of transportation... walking on the ground. Maybe because they were actually her half-brothers and half-sisters, Míwil's mother being a fairy, a light, fragile, fluttering creature who couldn't stand the dark woods and one day simply disappeared? Míwil mourned her mother for years... then, one day, she discovered the beauty of flying. The wind in her hair... the feeling of freedom. "Thank you, Mother..." - she thought and soared up in the cool night air, towards the full moon and the stars.

Dress: "Evelyn" in Aqua by Les Encantades. Anouk Haiku and her brand, Les Encantades, are another new discovery at the Fantasy Faire. When I first arrived to her shop I couldn't believe my eyes: the gowns and outfits were beautiful, available in lovely gem colours with very pretty detailing, and the prices were more than reasonable... so I started shopping with a certain frenzy, I must say. :) The gown I'm showing you here is available in the main shop only, but "Les Encantades" has some beautiful RLF donation items in one of the cheerful little huts at Wiggenstead Mooring - pay a visit there, and pick up either the "Giulietta" gown in Ruby, or "Edda" in Summer, in order to donate to RLF (200 L$ each).

Necklace and tiara: "Gilgalad" by Bliensen + Mai Tai - available at their shop at The Faery Court (349 L$ each, with a colour change HUD). To me, Bliensen + Mai Tai was "the shop with the cute pug in their logo" ...until now, when I discovered the delicate and beautiful fantasy jewellery offered by Plurabelle Laszlo at the Faire. Plurabelle, thank you for the goodies, you've stunned me!

Skin: The Plastik - Astrali "Io" by The Plastik, blogged here.

Ears: "Young Elven Ears" by 22769 - a goodie from last year's Fantasy Faire.

Tattoo: "Tribalien Tattoo" in Minimal by LaNoirSoleil - available in their shop at Wiggenstead Mooring during the Fantasy Faire (74 L$).

Antlers: "Springtime Antlers" by LaNoirSoleil - these flowery antlers (that come together with a HUD that allows you to adjust the colour of the antlers, the beads and the flowers as well) will be available soon at a new event called "Kensington Gardens", where LaNoirSoleil will be one of the three guest designers. The event opened on May 7th. I know the FF is keeping you busy, but yet... hop over there for a short visit,

Hair: "Roosje" in Light Brown by Mina Hair - this hair fatpack is a special gift from the currently running Enchantment event. In order to get it you have to purchase one item from the participating designers, then visit the other shops to have your special gift card stamped... for the hows and whys, please visit the event homepage where you find the accurate and detailed instructions. Thank you for your understanding. :)

Eyes: Dragon Eyes "Blue Shards" by Sterling Artistry (85 L$).

Pose: Fantasy Pose 44 by Musa, available in The Sanctum at the Fantasy Faire (30 L$ for a single pose, and 200 L$ for a fatpack of 10 poses).

Fantasy Faire 2014 - Minoan

The sun was setting and the first torches were already lit. The High Priestess adjusted the last fold of her heavy ceremonial dress. She felt the weight of the ancient crown on her forehead and the weight of duty on her shoulders. The latter was much, much heavier, she thought. She also took the golden sceptre... although it was a mere symbol and not a real source of power, but the ceremonial rules required her to carry it anyway. She sighed and closed her eyes for a moment... then she was ready to enter the Labyrinth. The Minotaur was waiting in the dark.

Those two pointy-eared guys at 22769 did it again! I was already squeaking with glee when I could see their creations at the last Fantasy Faire (I'm still in love with those elven ears...), and now I'm amazed how their mastery in fantasy art has developed in a year. They were already excellent at making modern clothing and furniture; now, in an eyeblink, they conjure up shoulder pet dragons and spectacular crowns from nothing. Paco and Manuel, I soo told you that you must continue with your fantasy line... it's an absolute success, you urban elves. :)

Dress: "Chloris" in Green by 22769, also available in Red and Purple. The RFL donation item is the special purple-and-white version of the Chloris dress, available at Hope's Horizon (250 L$).

Crown: "High Council Crown" in Iron by 22769. This magnificent headgear is also available at the Faire in Gold and Bronze (135 L$).

Necklace: "Apala" by Finesmith, an old Runway Perfect Hunt gift, not available any more.

Skin: The Plastik - Astrali "Io" by The Plastik, another great skin from the Astrali series that has 100 (!) different tones in 3 categories. During the Fantasy Faire you can visit The Plastik at The Faery Court; the full range of the Astrali skins is however available in the main shop (999 L$ for a single colour pack with lots of tattoo layers and appliers).

Eyes: Dragon Eyes "Sage Wisdom" by Sterling Artistry (85 L$).

Staff: Snoodle's Inferno Fire Staff Version 3 - a RFL donation item (149 L$). I confess I didn't know anything about Yap Snoodle until he sent me a polite message - which is very nice, coming from a practising goblin :) -, asking me whether I was interested in blogging about his goodies. When I received the Inferno Fire Staff I was quite happy I had said yes. It is a pretty mixture of moving and fixed parts, and it can be much more than an accessory, as the staff also allows to be scripted for combat. Yap's tent, full of interesting gizmos, is at Mourningvale Thicket - definitely worth a visit!

Pose: "Symmetry" by HelaMiyo, and old and absolute favourite (25 L$ for a single pose, 100 L$ for a pack of five poses).

Fantasy Faire 2014 - Twilight Huntress

The most dangerous beast come out to hunt at twilight. She knew that since she had been born. Her mother taught her well. The noises, the smells, the slight changes in the air ... foreboding and also forewarning signs for a huntress. She prickled her ears. Could that be... an Amphisbaena? No, she should have heard some soft hissing if it were. And those shadows? Just some tree branches, or... were they antlers? Maybe a Peryton...? She took a deep breath and began her long and patient stalking after the magnificient creature.

The list of designers participating at this year's Fantasy Faire is more than impressive, and a pleasure to read... so many old friends and acquaintances, and so many new creators that all offer their lovingly crafted pieces for a good cause!

Dress: Red Queen "Lioness" by The Library - RFL donation item available at Hope's Horizon (300 L$). I knew of the Medieval and fantasy dresses designed by Dreamfantasia Nightfire but (shame on me...) this is the first time I've ever bought one of her works.

Mask: Gold "Alato" Mask by Illusions - RFL donation item available at Sanctum (95 L$). Another beautiful piece by The Mask Lady, Siyu Suen.

Necklace: "Nyx" in Gunmetal by Sax Shepherd Designs - part of the Nyx fantasy jewellery set available at Hope's Horizon (499 L$). Thank you for the blogger pack, Sax, I didn't know your art went well beyond those lovely shoes... shame on me, again.

Skin: The Plastik - Astrali "Orion" by The Plastik. This set of skins is not a RFL donation item, but in the shop of The Plastik at The Faery Court you can admire (and, of course, buy) the new Asaia skins, designed just for the Faire. Vae, aka Aikea Rieko also offers you the Vynn Horns, the Malei Earrings and the Lys Circlets, each and every piece being created with amazing art and care.

Horns: Chained Horns in Black by LaNoirSoleil - RFL donation item available at Wiggenstead Mooring (247 L$). Caresia, thank you so much for the wonderful goodies, I'm sure I'm going to be a horned SL being for a long time! LNS is a recent discovery for me, and I'm already a fan of your headpieces.

Hair:"Mientje" in Black by Mina Hair - 250 L$ for a fatpack of 5 different black shades.

Eyes: Dragon Eyes "Golden Sight" by Sterling Artistry (85 L$). Silverr Andel has been absent from SL for quite a while, and he's not attending the Faire either... which is a great loss for all of us.

Staff: Aura Staff in Gold by The Forge - gacha prize (50 L$ per play). The staff is not among the RFL items, but it is worth checking out the shop of The Forge at Asperatus for some other awesome pieces.

Pose: RFL Pose 2 by Musa (shown here without the glowing orbs that also make part of the pose pack) - RFL donation item available at Sanctum (80 L$). Filomena, thank you for the blogger pack, I always use your poses with pleasure!

The picture was taken at Mourningvale Thicket.

Shepherdess

Ipolema 3rd of Haligale was satisfied. This had been her tenth mission and it had been successful. For her that would mean her time as apprentice would be over and she would be seen as a fully initiated shepherdess. Not that it was a surprise, all the women of her family were shepherdesses but still it was a personal success for her.
Now she would be allowed to command bigger herds. And soon she would be granted permission to use her staff not only to direct sheep but also other beings. Her training had started as soon as she had become able to hold a staff. The first beings which had been directed by here were frogs and other amphibians. As soon as she was able to control those she did proceed to bunnies and then finally to sheep.
Sometimes she wondered if being a shepherdess wasn't a waste of her magical talents but then she saw her aunt herd humans.


The Fantasy Faire 2014 will start tomorrow. And it will be a wonderful event as every year. The participating stores range from high fantasy to street roleplay and from clothes to buildings.
The Wayfarer dress from Poet's heart is one of their donation items for relay for life, as well as the staff and the headband. The dress comes in beautiful autumn colours and with fitting boots and pants. What makes it unique is not only the shading of the colours but also the elegant cut. This does not only allow to use the dress for fantasy roleplay but also for events in which a short dress is appropriate. The dress comes in the standard sizes.
The staff and head dress are made both of unrigged mesh and come with a hud which allows to choose the colour of the flowers, leaves and wood.
The poses used for the pictures come from HopScotch who also take part in the fantasy faire. They made staff poses. The set contains five poses with fitting staffs but it is of course also possible to use an other stff.

The Erika Hair from Wasabi Pills is one of my favourite hairstyles from that store. In Gingerbread it goes very well with the dress. The dragon eyes come from Sterling Artistry and are also available as mesh eyes.

Dress: Poet's Heart - Wayfarer - Autumn Foliage RFL (sold at the Fantasy Faire)
Staff and Headband: Poet's Heart - Wayfarer Staff and Headpiece RFL (sold at the Fantasy Faire)
Hair: /Wasabi Pills/ Erika Mesh Hair - Gingerbread
Eyes: Sterling Artistry: sa_DragonEyes_IndigoFrost
Poses: *~*HopScotch*~* Oaken Companion 2 (sold at the Fantasy Faire)

All the pictures have been taken at the Fantasy Faire.

RMK Gothic Bunny Hunt 2014 - The Red Princess

The Red Princess was ready to become the Red Queen... oh yes, she was ready and greedy to rule. Yet, the current Red Queen was so impolite as not wanting to abdicate in her favour. What a shame. She was still young and energic, she said, and she planned to spend another decade on the throne. Or maybe two, if she couldn't finish her plan and have all the necessary heads chopped off... and, of course, there were those roses to be painted red, every year. "I'll die a princess if I don't come up with a plan soon!" - the Red Princess thought. "Mummy, Mummy, I'd rather you reconsider that abdication...or else." Her lips curled up into a nasty smile as she started walking towards the rose garden.

It's March and the capricious bunnies are back to the RMK Gothic sim, to be waited on front and back paw and to be silently begged to drop a precious gift card. If you want to know everything about this unusual hunt and/or patience game, read the instructions at the RMK Gothic website; or, if you want to read a truly thorough review of what's going on (with lots of pictures), visit Deoridhe Quandry's blog.

Dress (complete with collar, stockings and hat; the latter not worn here): Ambrosia RMK Bunny Hunt gift (0 L$).

Necklace: Insanya RMK Bunny Hunt gift (0 L$). I love those rabbit ears! :)

Skin: The Skinnery "Haruko" in Milk - The Chapter Four gacha prize (100 L$ per play).

Hair: Ayashi RMK Bunny Hunt gift (0 L$).

Staff: DDD Alice's Chess Rod, "Red King" - gacha prize (40 L$ per play).

Eyes: Sterling Artistry "Dolly Deadly" in Danger (65 L$).

Nails: Pulcino RMK Bunny Hunt gift (0 L$).

Pose: Theater Chain "The Duchess" - from the "Alice in Wonderland" 10-pose pack (150 L$).

The Twisted Hunt 2014 Spring - Magick In The Make

She knew today would be the ideal day to do some magick. Already the dreams had been promising. Her protecting spirit, a mighty golden dragon, had visited her the night before. She knew her powers would soon be pouring out and flowing free. She gently moved her fingers, tentatively, and she felt the familiar tingle under her skin. Magick was accumulating in her, slowly surging, swirling, waiting to be released. Suddenly she noticed the dim light taking shape in her palms. Oh yes... an Orb of Power... she hadn't summoned one for ages. But today was the day to do some magick. She was slowly rolling the blob of energy around in her palms and she was quietly smiling.

It is Spring. Do you know how I know? Because the Spring edition of the Twisted Hunt has started today! This year the theme is "Magick", and the creators, whose shops I had the time to visit, have lived up to the expectations quite marvellously. There are more than a hundred participants in the hunt, so you must be patient if you want to collect all the gifts... and more so because there's a good reason why The Twisted Hunt is called "twisted"... so patience, fellow hunters, and good luck!

Skin: The Little Bat, "Oracle Skin", The Twisted Hunt gift (0 L$)

Eye makeup: [bubble], "Ritual Makeup", The Twisted Hunt gift (0 L$)

Eyes: Sterling Artistry, "Neko Felidae Eyes" in Look (65 L$)

Hair and tiara: LaNoir Soleil, "Miranda" hair and "Dragon Magik Helm", The Twisted Hunt gift (0 L$)

Diadem: Souzou Eien, "Celestial Sorcery Circlet", The Twisted Hunt gift (0 L$)

Gown: The Little Bat, "Oracle", The Twisted Hunt gift (0 L$)

Necklace 1: The Little Bat, "Oracle Necklace", Unlucky Dip prize (0 L$)

Necklace 2: Chaos, Panic and Disorder, "Twisted Amulet", The Twisted Hunt gift (0 L$)

Orb and pose: //elephante poses//, "Crystal Ball No.4", The Twisted Hunt Gacha prize (50 L$/play)

Early Winter

The Right Honourable, the Lady Chillyfreeze McIce Frost of Icicleville and Snowfields was toying with an ice cube rather recklessly. How was that possible? Autumn leaves still on the branches? Kids giggling in the soft sunshine? Rain now and then, Autumn rain and not a pretty snowstorm, as it should be? She dropped the ice cube and started drumming her fingers on a delicate table carved from pure frozen fairy tears. She must have been really impatient as the table broke into a million pieces a moment later. "Enough is enough! Something must be done! The world has to suffer from cold!" - Lady Chilly was furious by now.

The inhabitants of the tiny mountain village woke up in the next morning and they couldn't believe their own eyes. A few hours earlier they had enjoyed a peaceful, mildly warm late Autumn day... and today it was Winter, cold and snowy Winter. "Ohhh, look! Snow! Where is the sled? Let's go out and build a snowman! Mother, can I take a carrot from the pantry?" The village kids were apparently happy and undisturbed by the sudden weather change. Not far away, feeling an absolute failure, Lady Chilly decided to give up her high status and apply for a job. A nice job, preferably in a lovely warm room. A secretary, or maybe a cook.

Ready for an early Winter, at least in SL? Here are the goodies.

Skin: "White Queen" by Adore and Abhor - a stunning freebie from the Marketplace (0 L$).

Hair - Les Sucreries de Fairy, The Frozen Hunt gift - 0 L$. One of my absolute favourites in The Frozen Hunt, a wonderfully elaborate hairdo with many lovely details, a "must" for anyone wishing to impersonate any frosty critter, a snowflake fairy, or the evil Snow Queen from Andersen's famous tale, from now until the end of the winter season.

Eyes: "Resin Eyes" in Celadon by Sterling Artistry - monthly group gift (0 L$). The group is free to join, and - despite the fact that I generally dislike group tags in SL - I must admit that bouncing around in SL under the group tag "oOo shiny!" is hilarious! I feel like a greedy wee cartoon pixy every time I put it up, and I giggle a lot... thanks for the fun, Silverr!

Dress: "Frozen Blue" Dress by nMn Design, The Frozen Hunt gift - 0 L$. This is a real treat, as there are three more lovely winter mesh dresses in the giftbox, and one is prettier than another!

Snowfall train: part of the "Frozen Dress" by Ashmoot, The Frozen Hunt gift - 0 L$.

Jewellery: "Knight of the Night" by +:+WTG+:+ - November group gift (0 L$). It will cost you 100 L$ to join the group but these are Lindens very well spent, as the monthly gifts are fabulous, and there are also many lucky boards around for group members only.

Pose: "Caliope" by FlyLily! Poses - not available any more.

Booey Halloween!

There was silence in the Evil Enchanted Forest. Ominous silence. Every poisonous plant, every bat and snake was ready to pounce on anyone who dared wander around among the bushes on Halloween Night.

Yet, all of a sudden, the guardian of the Evil Enchanted Forest, an ancient oak, couldn’t believe his… well, his ears, had he had anything similar to a human ear on his trunk at all. Someone was happily singing and hopping along the narrow path, that lead to the very centre of the forest, a stinky black swamp. 

A little girl, carrying a bunch of orange balloons that looked like jack-o’lanterns. “The itsy bitsy spider climbed up the water spout…” – sang the silvery high-pitched voice. “At least she is stylish… let her through!” – whispered the Guardian and the poisonous plants, the bats and snakes remained withdrawn among the shadows.

If you’re an innocent little girl and you want to walk around at dangerous places at night, pick up the Halloween balloons at Vita’s Boudoir, the Halloween dress and skin at Dimbula Rose, and the colourful hair on Analog Dog Island. Booey Halloween! :-)

Dress: “Alice’s Summer Dress” (Halloween Version) by Dimbula Rose, free gift in the shop (0 L$).

Shoes: “Classic Ballet Flats” in Gold by Baby Monkey - free gift bag in the shop (0 L$).

Skin: Halloween Doll by Dimbula Rose - lucky board prize (0 L$). The board is for group members only, but it’s free to join. If you don’t have any free slots or you don’t have time, you can buy the skin for 50 L$.

Hair: “Fablespoon” by Analog Dog - free gift in the shop (0 L$).

Eyes: “Feral Eyes” in Brandy by Sterling Artistry – 85 L$.

Balloons: “Halloween Balloons” by Vita’s Boudoir - Halloween Lucky Chair prize (0 L$). You can also buy the balloons and many other lovely Halloween prizes for 50 L$ if you’re too eager to party and won’t wait for your letter to show up.

Pirates of the Scarabbean

Scah Rab Anh was so close to the prize, oh so very close. A few more steps and she would finally fulfil the dream of generations and generations of her ancestors. She would finally put her hands on the Chest of the Golden Scarab, the treasure her great-grandfather's great-grandfather had already been hunting for... a treasure for which her family had left the golden Egyptian sands and embarked on a neverending journey on the high seas. Scah Rab Anh silently gulped (the responsibility was weighing her down, after all), and entered the fog that was floating at the entrance of the cave.

"A peacock sitting on his tail is nothing but a turkey"; "Patience comes to those who wait for it"; "Don't eat yellow snow!" Have you ever been in dire need of some words of deep wisdom? If yes, then please visit the fortune teller's booth in the Temple at Selidor! You might or might not be granted the fabulous prize, the special version of the "Scarab" skin with accessories, the latest brilliant creation of Alia Baroque of Fallen Gods Inc., but you will surely not leave without some piece of precious advice from the blue guy in the box. You may win the prize until November 3rd so please don't hesitate to visit!

Skin and accessories: "Scarab" by Fallen Gods Inc. - special Fortune Teller prize (0 L$).

Hair: "Penny" in special Sea Colours by Calico Creations - Trick or Treat Trail Hunt prize (0 L$). The rigged mesh hair comes with a colour change HUD so you can pick your favourite from among many lovely sea colour combinations.

Eyes: "Daily Eyes" in Mulberry Wine by Sterling Artistry - 85 L$.

Pose: "Caliope" by Fly Lily! Poses - not available any more.

Trapped

Some day she would have her own little cafe. At least that was what she had been planing. For years, actually for many years. But this would only happen when the debt was payed. The debt which she had with those smugglers who brought her out of the lands she had been born in.

But this would take the same time again. Maybe if she would find an other job. But what could she do. There was hardly anything she had learned or which was able to stick in her mind besides of how to make coffee. Making contracts with coffeehouse demons was really not the best idea. On the other hand she could have gotten worse contracts, the accounting demons were always searching for new victims.

Auxiliary takes part in the rack this weekend. For this they made a sweater and a scarf both of rigged mesh. The sweater is wide enough to be combined with mesh pants as for example the hotpants from 22769. Those are available in several colours in their mainstore.The legwarmers come also from Auxiliary and are sold in a gatcha vendor at the side of the store. There are demos available so that it is possible to check which size fits best before using the gatcha. The horns also come from an Auxilary gatcha. They are made of nonrigged mesh with some lovely perl bands wrapped around them.
The hair is an other gatcha item. It is being sold at the legion project. There is a wide range of colours available.

Outfit:
Hair: little bones. Schism - Onyx/Bleached (Gatcha Item at The Legion Project)
Horns: Auxiliary : [Aux] In Dreams - Horns - Ivory (gatcha Item)
Ears: [europa] Sylven ears ivory (ethereal)
Eyes: Sterling Artistry : DragonEyes_IndigoFrost
Skin: [Aura] Helena - Milk - Fish Bowl - Frecks (Old event item)
Sweater & Scarf: Auxiliary : [Aux] Mr.Rogers Sweater - Peachy Keen
Hot pants: 22769 ~ [femme] Cotton Hot Pants
Legwarmers: Auxiliary : [AUX] Leg Warmers - Black (Gatcha Item)
Feet: SLink Jolie Pied Exotix for Men Medium (not available anymore)

Poses: Purple Poses - Beth


Photolocation: Lost Beach

We Love Role-Play - The Lady is A Wolf

"Wolfhelmina, don't run around with your hair unbraided, you look shabby! Wolfhelmina, don't eat noisily, you're a young lady, not a stable boy! Wolfhelmina, wear that pretty dress your grandmother gave you for your birthday, your father's business partner comes to dinner with his son! Wolfhelmina, don't! Wolfhelmina, do! Yak, yak, yak!" Wolfhelmina imitated her mother's high-pitched voice while she was preparing for that cursed dinner... oh, boy, was she angry now.

"A young lady, me? Wearing a pretty dress? Am I a rag doll, or what?" Wolfhelmina was boiling with rage, yet she opened her wardrobe and pulled out the pretty silk dress, then picked up her comb. Werewolves were wild creatures but loyal to their pack and respectful with their elders... so, after some more angry mumbles, Wolfhelmina checked if her muzzle was shiny and black enough and there were no leftovers stuck between her white fangs, then slowly started combing her fur. Who knows, that son of his dad's business partner might even be handsome.

Indeed, who said a werewolf can't be pretty? :-) If she visits the "We Love Role-Play" market, then we all can be sure she'll turn out looking wonderful, despite (or exactly because of) her mops of grey fur. The "Fur" skin is another great offer from Fallen Gods Inc. available at the "We Love Role-Play" market until May 31st, together with the "Raina" dress in three colours by Kouse's Sanctum.

Talking of Kouse, she's currently having a retirement sale. "Space is getting a bit tight at the Sanctum, and in order to make room for new things, I have to retire some older ones from the main store." - she writes. "They will remain on the marketplace. Before I remove them from the main store, though, you can find them on sale, for just 99 L$ each, until May 24th." Faith, Regina, Beulah and Skye await for you, so please pay them a visit if you have time.

Dress: "Raina" in Noir Cherry by Kouse's Sanctum - a special offer available at the "We Love Role-Play" event (200 L$).

Necklace: "Lifeforce" by Chaos, Panic and Disorder - MM board prize at the main shop (0 L$). If you like spectacular, chunky yet pretty jewellery, CPD is your store, especially because Lilah Munster has generously put out several MM boards and lucky chairs for her visitors to enjoy.

Skin: "Fur" by Fallen Gods Inc. - a special offer available at the "We Love Role-Play" event (495 L$).

Hair: "Sonne" in Caviar by Bliss Couture - 250 L$ for a pack of two colours.

Ears: "Elf Ears" by X-Gen - a freebie available at the marketplace (0 L$). This is a really great gift as the ears come with a HUD so you change their colour as you wish.

Eyes: - "Berry", one of the last group gifts of Theoretical Afterthought, a smart and intelligent woman who isn't active in SL any more. I miss your pictures and your wit, Theo. :-(

Nails: "Blazing Ruby" by Sterling Artistry - 10 L$.

Pose: "Gown 004" by Musa - 30 L$. It looks like the contents of the FF blogger package I received from Filomena Quinnell are a permanent fixture now. :-) 

We Love Role-Play - Wampyre

She was beautiful. She was tall, slim and sinuous. She was queen among her subjects. Yet, she was unhappy and bitter. Who wouldn’t be, she thought, when you cannot leave your underworld realm? She was born a vampire, a lovely princess with alabaster skin and delicate ivory fangs, a creature of the night to behold and dread. Yet, his father’s rule was weakening by the day... people were becoming more courageous and inventive, they didn’t use garlic and crucifixes any more, they shot vampires with silver bullets instead.

His father wanted to kill three birds with one stone when he decided his daughter should marry a dwarf princeling from one of the underground kingdoms nearby. She would be safe from ruthless humans, she could avoid lethal sunlight and, last but not least, her father could forge a precious alliance with the dwarves. Under the hill she went, and there she would remain until the end of her days, which was eternity. Well, at least she was waited on hand and foot by her diligent servants... and dinnertime was close. “What did they catch for me today?” – she wondered. ”A fat peasant? An able-bodied blacksmith? Some tender little girl?” She silently licked her lips. Living underground had a pleasant side, too.

The “We Love Role-Play” event is in full swing, and I have so many beautiful creations to show you, all available for a special price in the pretty log houses at the market in Fot.

Outfit: „Rainha – Fire and Blood” by The Muses – special offer at the We Love Role-Play event (150 L$). The dress is a real bargain as the box contains two of every garment piece, one in black and one in red, so you can combine them to your heart’s content.

Skin: „Ghost” by Fallen Gods Inc. - special offer at the We Love Role-Play event (495 L$). Alia Baroque considers quite carefully if and when to release his artwork for a special price, so grab the opportunity and, of course, this beautiful skin! :)

Ears: „Young Elven Ears” by 22769 – originally the ears were available at the Fantasy Faire but, after some ruthless pestering, Paco and Manuel agreed to include them in the stock permanently available at their main shop. They are still working on the setup so please be patient for a day or two; I’ll let you know when the ears are for sale.

Eyes: “Underworld Eyes” in Obsidian by Sterling Artistry - these creepy and brilliant eyes were first offered for sale at a previous Fantasy Faire; now they make part of the ordinary stock available in the main shop (65 L$).

Hair: “Mako” by Schön – the hair was a hunt gift and it’s not available any more, but try “Ran” instead, it’s quite similar (200 L$).

Fangs: “Fangs” by ni.Ju – a freebie available in the main shop (0 L$).

Poses: “Gown” by !Musa! – I’m still using Filomena Quinnell’s lovely poses from her FF blogger pack; you can find them in her shop for 30 L$ each.

The pictures were taken in the catacombs at The Valley of Ish’nar, the location where the second part of the Key of Hope hunt is running until May 19^th.

(My apologies for the shabby-looking post... my PC and internet connection are apparently on strike and nothing works properly today.)

We Love Role-Play - Nakooma

Nakooma, the maid hunter whose feet hardly touch a blade of grass.

The memories of this year's amazing Fantasy Faire are still vivid, but some tireless Second Lifers already offer us new entertainment. SL roleplay fans must be very, very grateful to Arica Storaro and her friends who not only had the brilliant idea of setting up a market for warriors, damsels in distress and adventurers, but did indeed find the time to rope in some of the best creators in the field and organise something original and new. "We Love Role-Play!" is a monthly shopping event where you can buy goodies from (just in order to bait you with some random names) Evie's Closet, The Plastik, Fallen Gods Inc., Kouse's Sanctum, Analog Dog, Elvenbreath and many other excellent brands, for a special price.

UPDATE: visit the market here.

A visit to Arwen's Creations was on my "To Do" list for a while. I sincerely admire those SL creators who have an eye for details and also the necessary skill and patience to build an object accordingly, and Arwen Serpente is one of them - so you can imagine how happy I was when I received a polite message from Arwen herself, gently asking me whether I was interested in blogging her "Nakooma" outfit that she prepared for the opening of the "We Love Role-Play!" event. With the single exception of a spectacular feather crown I'd never worn a Native American outfit in SL, but I knew I just had to say yes, as I was absolutely sure that whatever I'd find in Arwen's boxes must be beautiful... and oh my, was I right. The "Nakooma" gown and the matching moccasins are so lovely that I won't even try to describe them... you must visit Arwen's store in the "We Love Role-Play!" market, period. "Girly" girls like myself will love the long and beautifully decorated skirt, the feather-and-turquoise necklace and the elaborate belt, while "tough" girls will appreciate the leggings and the mittens that allow you to jump, run and shoot your arrows with ease.

Talking of arrows, EZ Weaponry by Deccan Arida offers a splendid set of quiver and bow to the avid roleplayer. The "Gilded Bow of Jie" is a beauty to look at... and, as far as its firepower and other technical details are concerned, I'll tell you more when I'll have already slain my first SL troll or something equally big and dangerous. :)

For the poses I must thank Miyoko Magic of HelaMiyo, a generous pose maker and a fellow duck lover... quack quack, and thanks again for the giftie box! :)

Outfit and shoes: "Nakooma" Gown and Moccasins by Arwen's Creations - 399 L$ for the gown and 99 L$ for the moccasins... a real deal!

Bow: "The Guilded Bow of Jie" by EZ Weaponry - 450 L$.

Skin: "Dark Fairy Skin" by Eat Paste - a former hunt gift not available any more.

Hair: "Bonnie" in Smoke by Truth - the sale is still on although it's still impossible to access the sim (75 L$).

Eyes: "DragonEyes" in Blue Shards by Sterling Artistry - 65 L$.

Poses: "Unbalanced No. 4" and "Fashion Blogger No. 4" by HelaMiyo - 50 L$ for one pose, 100 L$ for a set of 10 poses.

The pictures were made at Mirromere.

Fantasy Faire 2013 - The Green Queen

The Green Queen surveyed her realm with quiet, content happiness. The land was flourishing under her benevolent rule, and the people prospered. She walked around in the castle garden, caressed a tree leaf now and then. Everything felt so... alive, vibrating, growing, multiplying. The Green Queen kneeled down and touched a flower. She was serene, yet a shadow of sadness veiled her heart. Her time in the realm was so brief.

Indeed, she was to abdicate in a few weeks and her throne would pass to the Golden Queen... who, when her time came, would surrender the lands to the Red Queen and she, to the White Queen. The Green Queen was still sad, but when she remembered that the White Queen's reign would last but a few months and then she would ascend the throne in her full emerald glory again, she smiled and caressed another leaf.

I've known of the existence of the two guys behind "22769" for quite a long time - I always pay attention when a friend, whose habits don't include showering anybody with easy compliments, speaks of someone in the highest terms possible. Alas, it also seemed that Paco Pooley and Manuel Ormidale would focus their attention mainly on modern clothing... well, they treated steampunk fans to some tidbits from their "22769 Vintage" series now and then, but that was all, as far as fantasy stuff went. Yet, a flicker of hope scintillated in the horizon... Paco and Manuel wear elf ears, together with their jeans and t-shirts and sneakers! And indeed, the call of the pointy ears has proven too strong to ignore, and this year 22769 have their store in the Fantasy Faire, filled with goodies for the fantasy folk to enjoy.

... and you two, you will continue the vintage line, will you...? Pretty please?

Outfit: "Queensdress" in Green by 22769 - FF exclusive (160 L$) that you can find in Paco and Manuel's store at Lumenaria.

Hair: "Poison" by EMO-tions in Brown - the hair is a "golden oldie" (245 L$) but you can find the latest creations of Mirja Mills at Evensong Woods during the Faire.

Ears: "Young Elven Ears" by 22769 - another FF exclusive (140 L$) which is a bargain as the ears come with a colour HUD so you can match the shade of your ears with any possible skin you have.

Skin: "Rainbow Skins" in "Corpse Pallor" by Grim Bros - you can pick up the gift package for free in the Grim Bros main shop and it indeed contains many skins in the colours of the rainbow, and some. Cutea Benelli is also present at the Faire, go visit her boot at Ravenshard.

Tattoos: "Demon Fades" in Cilantro (on hands) and "Soul Ink Reloaded - Jana" (around the eyes) - both by The Plastik. The tattoos are both previous hunt gifts (now available for 249 L$ and 89 L$ respectively) but Aikea Rieko has new creations to offer, so go and visit her store at the Fantasy Faire at Evensong Woods, and don't forget to pick up the two low lag avie gift packages, also by The Plastik, at the landing point.

Eyes: "Komodo Eyes" in "WisdomSage" by Sterling Artistry - this beauty is also a FF exclusive (85 L$) that you can find in Silverr's shop in Titans' Hollow.