Field diary: Toxic Muse

Field Journal of Adventurer Judith M.

In this diary I will write down every animal, plant, being or curious thing that I discover in this mysterious forest.

It was a cloudy day when I decided to venture out to explore the Enchanted Forest for the first time. I had heard legends and stories about the creatures that inhabit this place, but as soon as I set foot on its ground, covered in moss, twigs, and leaves, I felt magic envelop me.

I moved forward with determination, respect, and caution. It's important to be alert to potential dangers, but also to maintain a respectful attitude in any forest, magical or not, that you decide to enter.

After an hour of walking, amazed by the sounds, shadows, and vegetation I encountered along the way, I decided to sit down for a snack and take out my binoculars, intending to better observe the birds and the tiny life that inhabited the trees.

As I finished my impromptu picnic and gathered my things, a small, lilting voice surprised me near the tree where I was leaning. In front of me, a chubby little mushroom with an adorable face watched me with curiosity and caution.

I quickly searched through my notes compiled from other exploration books and was fascinated to discover it was a Toxic Muse . Wasting no time, I made some quick sketches in my notebook and later, more calmly, added more details and color.

After a few minutes of watching her, the little creature approached slowly, a faint tinkling sound in its voice. Before I knew it, it began to climb up my clothes until it confidently settled on my shoulder, from where it seemed to be analyzing my notebook with the same curiosity with which I was watching it.

Seeing it a little wilted and with its spores off, I thought it might need better care, so I decided to take it home to study it calmly and provide it with some light and food in my little magical greenhouse.

Diary note:
I've discovered that the Toxic Muse is quite jealous. After I left her in the greenhouse to recover, when I returned she had broken all the plant turrets around her, as if she wanted to make sure I'd only notice her when I returned.

*I created this little figurine as a tribute to the poisonous creatures that hide both beauty and danger. It's part of my collection of plush figurines, and I love thinking that every adventurer can give it a place in their own magical corner. You can find it here.
and if you're lucky you'll be able to get your hands on a copy.''