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[6.700 words] [Mind Change] [Permanent] [Unwilling] [Moodra-TF]
Commission for the lovely Thank you for supporting me! ^^
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Editorial Note: The article you are about to delve into had each of its halves written by a different reporter; Dina and Abda. Dedicated readers might recall Abda's notable contribution to our captivating Jenistas primer (Feathers and Scriptures - Article ) a few months ago. While featuring the story in such a way deviates from our customary practices here at Adventure Magazine, due to unforetold events, we were left with no alternative but to present this unique collaboration.

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Dina’s detour notes: Introduction
Rumors are always spreading. When our world houses so many marvelous sights, it’s only natural that some would misunderstand or attempt to fabricate their own. However, as a reporter at The Adventurer’s Magazine, it’s my job to inform what is real and what is fake. Be it monsters, ghosts, relics, ancient civilizations and whatnots, you can count on us to get you all the information you need before going on your own adventures!

The original plan of today was to track down a curious species of butterfly that leaves a rainbow colored dust behind when flying. Local villages have reported that such a creature has never existed on their land before. At first, some of them were worried that the anomalous dust could damage their crops. Others thought the creature could be a prank of some childish wizard. Either way, this was meant to be a minor, more lighthearted article between my more major projects, just a simple observation of a unique insect.

However, things escalated when one of the two sentry golems who protected the region went missing a few hours ago, so they feared something more sinister was going on. That was when I was called in.

Regardless, as the good reporter that I am, I began my investigation.

At least… That was what I thought.

Following the rainbow colored trail in the forest, armed with my tracking skills, I venture deeper and deeper into the tranquil thickets, crossing calm rivers and going up and down some hills. The place seemed boringly normal to me, until the pursuit led me to the huge, thick, and mossy stump of an ancient tree. It was as big as two peasant’s cottages!

To add to the spectacle, that hollow remnant had a wide opening on its side, like a tunnel that allowed me to see through it. Since the butterfly glimmer went right in, so did I.

As I began to cross through the gateway, I felt a strange change in the very air, which became moist and warm, contrary to the dry coldness of the pine-covered foliage behind me. Time seemed to slow down as I stepped through the stump, feeling small compared to its majesty.

Upon getting to the other side, I was surprised to emerge in a rainforest; adorned with tall grass and shrubberies that almost reached my knees; vibrant orchids hanging from the trunks and branches of every tree; wide bromeliads filled with water and frogs; multicolored mushrooms and moss covering most surfaces like a natural wallpaper; meandering overground roots running across the ground like tangled wires; and a flurry of airborne insects, including the very rainbow butterfly I had been searching all along. It felt like walking around a house that had mismatched rooms.

I continued to follow the butterfly's trail through that place that was so familiar yet so uncanny. An untrained eye would say it was a rainforest like all others, but little details made it strikingly clear that the place was unique. Namely, the aforementioned butterflies, but also flowers that had differently colored petals, and rocks that had intricate drawings on their surface.

It all seemed like a happy stroll until I saw, hanging from a nearby tree, the tail of a snake as thick as my leg. However, it was no common snake, but a creature that looked like something stitched together from discarded pieces of cloth. In some places, the fabric seams revealed glimpses of soiled cotton nestled within, exposing the unconventional composition of its organs.

At first glance, I mistook it for a lost toy, discarded and abandoned within the depths of the forest. Yet, as if responding to my presence, the creature stirred and animated before my eyes. A shiver coursed through my being, compelling me to instinctively take a step back. The very tongue of that artificial reptilian was nothing more than a shiny, red ribbon sticking out of its stitched mouth. To my astonishment, despite its lips being sealed, the creature hissed at me.

"Hello, stranger..." The creature's googly eyes, fashioned from two spherical glasses that each housed a single bead, spun in an hypnotic dance. Its stitched mouth remained closed yet articulated words that sounded muffled. "What brings you to this realm?"

As those words echoed through the air, the very same rainbow-colored butterfly, which had eluded my pursuit all along, landed upon the serpent's head. With a delicate flutter of its wings, the insect erupted into a radiant burst of vibrant hues, becoming a cloud of sparkling glitter. Without moving, the serpent absorbed the luminous particles, seamlessly integrating them into another patch of fabric, mending one of its many punctured gaps.

I realized with a jolt that the creature had lured me to that otherworldly realm. My years of adventuring had taught me about the hunting habits of many angler-like predators, and that snake acted exactly like one. I was definitely not equipped for that kind of situation! Curiosity begged me to stay and ask questions, but my survival instincts drove me to pivot and flee back towards the tree-gate from where I had come.

Alas, my hopes were dashed as I frantically retraced my steps, only to find that the entry to that jungle had vanished. The once-hollow bark had become solid, barring my way to the picturesque panorama of pine trees and majestic mountains. I stood disoriented, hands against the stump, a solitary figure amidst unfamiliar terrain, with an insidious predator stalking me from behind. My panicked self began to punch the tree, hoping that it would somehow open a secret passage.

In the next instant, the creature collided with my back; a plushy impact that reverberated through my spine, sending a hundred tiny shocks cascading throughout my body. It was as if new nerves were springing to life. I felt an unsettling pinch at the seat of my pants, followed by a tug, then an uncanny impression of possessing an additional limb. The snake had... attached itself to me, akin to a tail?

"It is rather impolite of you not to respond. However, I shall grant you forgiveness, for I find myself plagued by loneliness," the snake chuckled, its sinuous form entwining around me, the soft fabric caressing my skin as I was ensnared in its gentle yet unyielding embrace. "Ever since my creator abandoned me in this forest, I have yearned for a companion with whom to entertain myself."

The tiny shocks that had initially coursed through my spine now spread to my bones and muscles. It felt as though a thousand ants were playfully tickling me from within. My screams of terror were muffled by my own laughter, an unsettling blend, as I succumbed to the grassy floor beneath me. Encased within the serpent's woven prison, my voice was silenced by the walls of my clothy confines.

Thus, that was how my detour began. If you are reading these words, you can figure out that the snake did not end my life.

No… It orchestrated something else entirely…

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01 Dina’s notes: The Snake
As a seasoned reporter of Adventure Magazine, I had already experienced my fair share of transformations. Not only did my expedition to Frog-murk Bog lead to a nice article about bloat-ribbitting, not to mention the extended, primary-sourced report I did on the lives of Giant Fluffmoths. This time was no different. No matter what, I would always collect information for the magazine!

As the snake constricted me within its coils, my joints and limbs were contorted without pain into peculiar angles. My face elongated into a canine muzzle, complete with a moist nose. Fingers and toes dwindled to minuscule nubs, each adorned with squishy pads. I was reshaped as if I was made of clay. No. Not clay. More like… cotton?

"Fret not, dear vessel," the serpent hissed, its voice reaching my ears through the vibrations of its sinuous form. "A sliver of my creator's power was bestowed upon me. The essence of creation and fusion itself. Soon, thou too shall bear a portion of this might."

My muscles relaxed and almost dissolved, replaced by a tender, fluffy sensation akin to a pillow of unparalleled comfort. It was quite odd for me to be in a state of curious serenity while subjected to such an unfamiliar situation. Given those clues and the haziness enshrouding my thoughts, I realized a mental change was happening. My training had prepared me for this - I had to write about my experience while I still could! A good reporter would never leave an adventure unwritten!

"My artistry may not rival that of my creator, but in truth, we have fashioned a resplendent replica." The snake’s embrace began to weaken. "Methinks we can pass as a real Moodra."

With the culmination of my changes, the serpent released its grip, and I stood, or rather, stood upon my... fours? Curly, ivory fur now cloaked every inch of what used to be skin. Big, puffy paws, with orange claws, replaced my hands and feet. A pair of curving horns adorned my forehead, whilst pointed ears twitched right next to them. Yet, the most extravagant detail was that a long serpent, which had a will of its own, had become my tail.

Just like the snake, I also found myself formed by a colorful patchwork, hastily mended together by countless stitches and metallic things called “zippers”, which I had never seen before but somehow knew exactly what it was. My interior consisted of cotton, feathers and foam, which revealed themselves through the open seams in my skin.

Curiously, it felt entirely natural to exist and move around in that body, even if, deep down, I knew I was human. Somehow the motor skills were placed right into my brain…

Another intriguing detail captured my attention—a lengthy strand of rosy string encircled my neck, terminating in a levitating needle that seemed an extension of my being, moving in synchrony with my thoughts.

“A moodra, you said?” My voice emerged as a blend of growl and squeak. “Is that what I am now?”

“That’s what WE are now.” The snake nuzzled my neck, making the sound of two pillows rubbing against one another. “We are Moodra. We will live with other Moodras. We will learn about Moodra. And we will report everything back to mistress Baleina.”

“Moodra.” I nodded. Somehow the word made complete sense for me. It made more sense than the word human. My former human vessel seemed like a mere cocoon for what I had now become. No. What I was always meant to be.

Mental changes were strange. Obviously, I did know that the feelings I had were being dictated to me by my transformation, but that didn’t make it easier to resist them. Furthermore, I didn’t want to resist them. So long as I could still write down this experience, it was smarter to let the thoughts take over so that I would actually know how to control my new form.

I reached for my backpack, which was flopped on the grass, all of its contents scattered around. I located my notebook, quiver and inkwell, but as my hands stretched to pick them up, those furry paws proved unable to deal with that previously-mundane task. However, an instinct immediately kicked in and the levitating needle responded, attuned to my volition. It quickly stitched the pages together with the ink, causing words to pour all over it. The very words you are reading now were transcripted this way! The words describing everything that has happened to me up until this point.

My notebook, now infused with mystical ink, effortlessly transcribes my thoughts. The magical thread not only weaved mere words on the pages, but also the essence of all that surrounded me. Each puncture of my needle possesses the power of creation and fusion, making the paper and ink one with each other, and also one with me. Just like a pyromancer commands the element of fire and a hydromancer masters the element of water, so do I possess dominion over the forces of creation and combination.

With that formidable power, I held the ability to reshape all life and nonlife within my territory. The flora could be hybridized by my will; the insects could be united to form a new specimen; even the stones and mushrooms could be melded into something that was more than its individual parts. I contemplated whether sporecap spiders would grace my domain, or if I should instead focus on bumbrose-bees, or criketberry-ants, or perhaps a fusion of simpler creatures would be an appropriate start. By doing so, I would mark my claim upon that forest, putting my signature on everything, ensuring others would leave it undisturbed.

That was my domain, after all! It was my right to mold it to my likeness!... or so I believed, given no other creature matched me. Until a peculiar scent came through the air—a blend of smoldering coal and charred wood, bearing a signature akin to my own, yet attuned to a different element. How did I discern this?

"Another Moodra draws near," the serpent hissed, breaking the silence. "In truth... two of them." A momentary pause hung in the air. "For the sake of our mistress Baleina, we must investigate."

"For the mistress," I affirmed, nodding resolutely, before setting forth toward the signatures.

I must find my kin, my pack, united once more.

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02 Dina’s notes: The Moodra
As I approached a clearing, the first thing that came to sight was a towering golem crafted from rocks and entwined roots, adorned with animation runes. The audacity of trespassing into Moodra territory was unforgivable! However, to my surprise, I recognized that behemoth as the guardian of the village my human form had visited earlier that morning. Had it traversed the same portal before me? Had others come to explore that land?

My attention then turned to the valiant figures bravely confronting the creature. One bore vibrant orange fur, a crimson serpent-tail, and a fiery halo encircling its neck. The other possessed cream-white fur, a snake-tail of pale blue hue, yet no visible manifestation of an element around its neck... though if an element lay concealed, it eluded my gaze.

The orange Moodra conjured torrents of fire, which swirled like tendrils, engulfing the golem in a controlled combustion that spared the verdant surroundings. Not a single leaf of grass was burned. Only the roots that breathed life into the golem succumbed to the flame.

The second Moodra danced with ethereal grace, causing the air itself to shimmer and ripple. Waves of force crashed upon the golem's chest, like the winds of a hurricane, causing its very foundation to quake and crumble with each impact.

The orange Moodra didn’t seem happy. It puffed and said: “Damned be this thing!”

The white one replied in a calm voice: “Let’s not lose our temper. There must be a way.”

The runes flashed, followed by a loud grumble. The indomitable monster sprang back to life, persisting in its insidious assault upon our sacred territory. It absorbed roots and rocks from the earth, seeking to reconstruct its form for a second assault. Yet, before it could even raise an arm, the two Moodras halted its uprising once more... though the sentinel remained resolute, like an unstoppable avalanche.

"We must intercede to win their allegiance." My serpent whispered, its voice a mere hiss in the air. “But first, let's make ourselves presentable.”

My body instantly felt tight as every open seam closed itself. Then I felt warm as the faux fur that covered me became real. Next, I felt heavier, as my insides turned to flesh and bones. Finally, my very snake-tail gained actual scales and vivid eyes. That would trick the other two Moodras… hopefully.

I jumped forth and commanded the magical thread around my neck to stretch, allowing the needle to go straight for the golem. Drawing upon my recollections from my previous human existence, I tapped into my knowledge on magical constructs. As the needle punctured the golem's exterior repeatedly, I rearranged the intricate web of runes that covered it, until their once-potent magic faltered. In an instant, the roots shriveled and crumbled away, while the once-mighty stones surrendered to the pull of gravity, cascading into an unassuming mound.

The threat, now reduced to an inert pile of rocks and withered roots, was vanquished. I had defended our territory. I had protected our sanctuary. I was overwhelmed by a primitive feeling of self fulfillment. The ecstasy after the hunt.

“Thank you kindly, stranger!” The white Moodra said in her calm voice, and the snake-tail continued: “You wield quite an interesting element.”

“Bah!” The orange Moodra growled, and its snake-tail said what its mouth did not: “We could’ve done it without you. You only finished the creature because we had exhausted it already… sssssss”

My instincts told me the white one was a pack leader. She was higher in rank than me, the orange one, and possibly many other Moodras. Without questioning, I bowed my head to her… and my serpent tail did the same.

"My name is Dina." I said, as if talking to a queen. "I'm pleased to join your pack."

"Well… I am Lara, and this brave warrior next to me is Fran." She put a paw on top of my head. "Welcome to our secret forest. The realm of elements."

"Not so secret anymore." Fran huffed, and the snake continued. "Invaders have been showing up a lot lately… sssssss."

I feigned ignorance about the invaders, and even about myself. I was a full Moodra now. There was no reason to worry my pack mates with the confusing details about my past. I was one of them now. That was all that mattered. Besides, I needed to collect more information for mistress Baleina… I mean… for the magazine!

My snake tail replied before I could say anything; "We'll love to help you all against these otherworldly threats who dare venture into our realm… sssssss."

Apparently, the other two bought it.

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03 Dina’s notes: The Hideout
Guided by the two Moodras, we traversed the labyrinthine depths of the verdant wilderness, venturing through rivers adorned with colorful stones, going across majestic peaks sculpted by eons of relentless wind, navigating past marshes where aerial roots wove an intricate spaghetti shape, and delving into sprawling plains where golden grasses shimmered like gold. For the ordinary explorer, it would appear as if we had undertaken an arduous journey across vast distances, yet each landscape was but a small fragment, swiftly morphing into something entirely new after less than a mile. This realm was akin to a colossal patchwork blanket, where disparate elements combined… as if the gods had weaved a tapestry of the unknown, sketching the blueprint of a world yet to fully manifest.

"I must confess I am new here." I uttered, crafting a half-truth. "I’ve grown alone in these lands, with you two being the first Moodras I have encountered. I fear my ignorance of your customs makes me a savage."

"Fear not, stranger," reassured Lara, her voice devoid of weariness despite the formidable encounter with the golem and the treacherous terrain we traversed. "You are now our kin, bound by the ties of our shared destiny. Together, we must defend what is rightfully ours."

I nodded, relief washing over me... My ruse had proven effective... Or so I believed, for now.

Amidst our enigmatic journey, there were moments when it felt as though we were going in circles. Uncertainty gnawed at my core, clouding my perception. Was the realm intentionally playing tricks on my sense of direction, or did my newfound companions doubt my trustworthiness? What if they sensed my oddness? Would they detect the unfamiliar scent that clung to me? Could my unconventional fur betray my disguise? Had I accidentally exposed my secret identity?

“Are we there yet?” I inquired, trying to contain my discomfort.

"We have no alliances aside from our own. We must safeguard our land from trespassers." Declared Fran, the orange-hued Moodra, while its serpentine tail coiled in agreement. "Only those we hunt may share our domain, for they pay the ultimate price with their very livessssss. This is nothing but fair."

“Is that an answer?” I attempted to not sound rude.

"Our forest hides itself through arcane arts." Lara giggled, her laughter carrying a tone of amusement as if teaching a curious child. "The path reveals itself solely to those who traverse the mystical currents of the leylines."

"So... Moodras must hide themselves?" I probed, seeking clarification.

"We do not hide out of cowardice! We shield our land because our enemy uses vile sorceries that should never have existed!" retorted Fran, his serpent-tail hissing in agreement. "We shroud not ourselves, but the land, because the evil god-sorceress seeks to corrupt it with her abominations."

"Evil god-sorceress?" I inquired. Although, deep inside, I sensed I knew who she was.

"The wretched monster breeder!" Seethed Fran, flames of anger smoldering within its reddened gaze. “The kidnapper; the enslaver; the mad goddess; the false queen. She dares lay claim to a world that is not rightfully hers! She even wants the sacred lands of Moodra! She acts as if she's the heir of the world! Unlike her, we Moodras defend our territory with our own might, while she employs her abominations as mere thugs."

"I suspect that golem was a creation of her dark arts." I lied, fully aware that the creature had emerged from my own realm. "We were fortunate to defeat it." My concealed satisfaction swelled, for I knew that if the golem was truly a craft of my mistress, these two Moodras stood no chance.

"Indeed, it bears the hallmarks of her vile craftsmanship." Affirmed Lara, her nod conveying agreement. "Fashioned from rocks and roots, such a thing could only be a fruit of her malevolent imagination."

My snake tail took a deep breath and I clenched my teeth, suppressing the impulse to retaliate against their insolence. I reminded myself to be patient. Soon, they would lead me to their land, and I would report their location back to Mistress Baleina. Oh, how she would shower me, her creation, with praise and approval.

Our trip didn’t take much longer. Soon, we stood in front of a majestic mountain of solid stone that extended almost to the horizon. Lara cleared her throat and then, with a powerful howl, unleashed a melody that resonated through the air. It almost sounded like an order in musical form. As if she was a queen that commanded her subjects with the beautiful notes of a symphony. Although, she would never rule over me, of course.

To my surprise, the rocks before her dissolved into dust, revealing a hidden passage to a cavern. Its interior was adorned with softly glowing bioluminescent mushrooms, which painted the walls with a green hue. Did their sanctuary require a magical password?

"Behold, stranger." Lara beamed, stepping into the cavern and gesturing with her head for us to follow. "One of our many entrances, known only to those who understand the leylines of this world… Such as the Moodra."

“Is this your only territory?” I asked, only a few yards behind Lara, our bodies looking greenish thanks to fungal lights.

"Nonsense!" Fran shouted, his voice echoing through the tunnel. "The place you are about to witness is our most sacred domain, but the majority of this realm belongs to us! It is our hunting ground, where we lay claim over every prey and every fruit that exists over our land. The land is ours because we fiercely defend it."

“Rawr!” A feral growl involuntarily escaped my maw, as if awakened by their talk of hunting, territorial marking, and the pride of our Moodra heritage. The final stages of my transformation, dormant until now, surged forth, accompanied by a subtle mental shift. It felt as though fragments of my human knowledge vanished to make way for the instincts and essence of a true Moodra. However, despite the many changes, my unwavering loyalty to my mistress Baleina remained. The sole tether to my former self. She would always be my true mistress… she always was my true mistress… and I would do anything necessary to make Baleina the true queen of the Moodras.

As great reporter I am, I contin-e narrat- adv-nt-r- in strang- land for mistr-ss Bal-ina r-ad lat-r -=_;>,.}[´~+-=~-;~>⇊Ϗ⇄↽⇀ᛮ⬱⥵↲–↮⇚⦽⇋⇅—႟↾⇁ϓ⇊⥳↽↿⇇ᛯ⇅-⇄⇈↿↾⇅⇈ϕ⇄⇄–϶⇈↝↡⬼-=_;>,.}[´~+-=~-;~>⇊Ϗ⇄↽⇀ᛮ⬱⥵↲–↮⇚⦽⇋⇅—႟↾⇁ϓ⇊⥳↽↿⇇ᛯ⇅-⇄⇈↿↾⇅⇈ϕ⇄⇄–϶⇈↝↡⬼

[Editor’s note: The ensuing passage presents an enigmatic compilation of characters, spanning hundreds of pages, similar to the scribbles of a child trying to emulate the writings of an adult. Our linguists have attempted to form a language basis from these scratches, but the deeper we delve into these written fragments, the more any semblance of logic seems to dissipate, leaving behind mere cryptic lines randomly drawn over the paper. The precise intentions behind Dina's text remain unknown, yet we have come to the predominant conclusion, here at Adventurer’s Magazine, that this shift represents the loss of her ability to form written words. This peculiarity deserves an important note in our comprehension of the entity known as Moodra, which, despite its capacity for vocal communication, appears incapable of written expression. Either that, or their system of textual communication is beyond our comprehension.]

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Abda’s notes: Moodra Primer
The texts written by our former reporter Dina were discovered by me at the doorsteps of Baleina’s cottage. Fortunately, I was able to retrieve them before the witch had a chance to read. I can’t even imagine what horrors Baleina would’ve done if she discovered the Moodras’ hideout.

Using my understanding of her “mistress’s” mannerisms, I crafted a false letter, pretending to be her, and secretly delivered it to Dina. In the letter, I instructed her to stay with the Moodra in their hidden forest and never leave until further orders arrived, no matter how many years or decades passed.

It deeply hurts my heart to see my former fellow reporter in this state. As researchers, every reporter for the Adventurer’s Magazine is prepared to face a journey they may not return from, but that does not calm my feathers. Dina, though perhaps a bit over-obsessive when it came to collecting data, was one of our most reputable writers and a good friend to those who met her. We hope to see her return someday.

I also urged her to act loyal to the leaders of the Moodra, Lara and Dylano, and provide them with assistance in any way possible. I hope these measures will ensure the safety of Erithia, and also protect Dina from getting into trouble until we find a way to change her back.

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01 Abda’s notes: What is a Moodra
Within the enigmatic realm of Erithia, a domain that remains shrouded in mystery and demands further exploration, exists a species known as Moodra. These creatures bear a striking resemblance to the dire wolves most adventurers are used to, both in size and physical appearance. However, their distinct attributes are unlike anything we've ever studied.

First of all, among their remarkable traits is their ability to communicate vocally, speaking every syllable from our own language. In addition to this linguistic prowess, Moodras possess a range of lupine barks, growls, whimpers, and purrs. Because both their faces are devoid of expression, these primal sounds serve to convey a myriad of emotions. While some of their emotions align with familiar human experiences such as happiness, anger, comfort, and fear, Moodra also manifest more primitive sentiments that have no parallel in our human society.

Despite their initial semblance to dire wolves, it is important to note that Moodras are a combination of two bodies. In place of the usual furry appendage, they possess a snake as their tail. At first sight, this serpentine companion appears to be a distinct entity, possessing the ability to speak independently and frequently completing phrases initiated by the wolf head.

These snake-tails exhibit a spectrum of communication styles — while some are more talkative, others are extremely silent. It is also noteworthy to point out that variations exist between the personalities of snake tails and their lupine counterparts, since they can sometimes behave as polar opposites. However, despite these eventual distinctions between the two heads, Moodras perceive themselves as a unified entity. (The closest analogy I can think of is between us and our hearts. Even if we have no control over this organ, it is still part of us. The snake tail would be an extreme example of this)

Even in cases where the two halves speak and act differently, seemingly as opposite personalities, the two never disagree on any decisions that must be made, nor do they partake in disputes amongst themselves. From this, I suspect that these remarkable creatures share a singular consciousness, which expresses different facets of itself on each of the heads.

An additional facet of Moodras lies in their aptitude to magically harness a singular element, which is proudly displayed around their necks, like a collar. Among the common elements observed are fire, water, earth, wood, and ice, each bestowing the Moodras with the ability to summon it whenever they want. Yet, there exist exceptional individuals whose traits set them apart from their kin.

Lara, esteemed as the female leader of the Moodras, possesses a rare mastery over the element of air. While invisible to the naked eye, an ethereal vortex encircles her neck, its presence subtly revealed only when an errant leaf or spec of dust is caught within its currents.

Our former-reporter Dina became an intriguing figure in her own right, wielding the unique element of creation. This manifests as a long thread gracefully draped around her neck, accompanied by a carrot-sized needle that levitates and responds to her commands. This ability to manipulate things by stitching them together and combining them into one doesn’t appear natural among any other animal of Erithia. I suspect this is a result of her artificial creation, giving her a fraction of Baleina’s power. Thankfully her powers are very limited, and only work on inanimate objects and very tiny critters.

Lastly, we turn our attention to Dylano, an esteemed figure renowned as the epitome of Moodra mastery. Regarded as the male ruler among their kind, Dylano has achieved unparalleled command over the common elements (except the element of creation). Instead of adorning his neck with a signature of his prowess, Dylano's four limbs are covered by all the elements he has tamed.

With lifespans that can range from fifty to a hundred years, leaders such as Dylano and Lara must always worry about leaving behind an offspring that would be up to the task of representing their race. Although family ties can be an important factor among Moodra, this is not always the case, since a weak leader can always be challenged by someone more powerful. Dylano was not born into a leader family, but became such thanks to his mastery over many elements.

These creatures are not only powerful on their own, thanks to their magic, but also relatively dangerous to study because of reasons I’ll clarify in the next topic.

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02 Abda’s notes: Territory and Hunt
Moodras possess an omnivorous appetite, savoring a diverse diet of fruits and meat. However, they exhibit a particular inclination towards fish, small mammals, and avians (including Jenistas such as myself). Their predatory habits serve two purposes, the primary being an obvious need for nourishment, while the secondary revolves around protecting their territories against perceived threats.

Well-fed Moodras rarely attack most denizens of the wild. I have personally witnessed birds nonchalantly resting upon their heads, rabbits playing under their shadows, and fish carelessly swimming around them. Small creatures, it seems, feel safe in the presence of the wolf-snake duo, perceiving them as a natural deterrent against other predators. Moodras often speak of a concept they call "life tax", wherein these critters serve as a tribute, providing nourishment whenever the Moodras' hunger demands it.

However, Moodras are always violent towards creatures of medium size or larger, no matter if hungry or not. These beings are renowned for their territorial nature, aggressively defending their domains against intruders. They start with guttural growls and menacing barks, warning potential adversaries to keep away or perish. Their patience drains fast, however, and if the creature does not leave, Moodras will be quick to employ their arsenal of claws, fangs, and elemental powers, never hesitating to use lethal force.

Fortunately, both myself, a Jenista, and my companion John, a rabbit, are exempt from the label of invaders within the eyes of the Moodras. They permit our presence, even engaging in conversations with us... That is, unless their stomachs are not full. I still remember the day when a hungry Moodra lunged at us. I was luckily able to seize John with my talons and take flight to safety, but if I was a moment too late we’d both be prey. The memory of that encounter continues to haunt my dreams.

Although Moodras have no “town” or “kingdom”, they have a special interest in a hidden forest, which they treat as an ancestral ground. It can only be accessed through a network of tunnels that are illuminated by shining mushrooms, and these caverns can lead to many different places within Erithia. Curiously, there is no way to reach it by flight, since the place exists in a type of “pocket dimension” (I suspect Erithia not only abducts creatures, but also the very space of other realms, like a world that eats other worlds).

The size of their hidden forest is as big as three human kingdoms. As for the actual size of their territory outside the ancestral ground, it is difficult to estimate, for they lay claim to any land they can protect. As Moodras reproduce, their thirst for territory intensifies, driving them to engage in confrontations with any adversaries that dare to challenge their dominion. In one of the many talks I and John had with Dylano and Lara, they told us their expansion used to be fast paced, but lately they are having troubles dealing with Baleina’s abominations. The sorceress has been recently setting her failed experiments free in the forest, presenting an ongoing threat.

Indeed, Baleina's disruptive influence reverberates far beyond the boundaries of the Moodra realm. It is easy to conclude that she is dangerous not only for Erithia, but also toward other worlds, which leads us to the next topic.

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03 Abda’s notes: Diplomacy
Despite their insatiable ambition to expand their dominion, Moodras abide by an unwritten code when it comes to lands inhabited by other social creatures (such as Jenistas). Since they are capable of talking, they are also capable of getting into agreements and negotiations, respecting the territories of sovereign species. Thus, whenever John and I venture into their realms, we must be accompanied by either Dylano or Lara, lest we be deemed invaders, risking a conflict between our races. This practice intertwines with another unspoken principle known as the "right to retaliate," which permits Moodras to occupy the lands of any species for a singular hunt if the said species has disrespected their borders, unless restitution in the form of wergild is paid.

While the the term "wergild" is not part of their lexicon, as it is a human concept, the essence remains akin to the practices observed among human kingdoms and clans. However, instead of demanding gold and silver, Moodras request payment in foodstuffs. (Upon my initial venture into their lands for study purposes, this almost ignited a conflict with them. To appease their ire, we Jenistas had to offer a substantial tribute of countless berries, fish and nuts.)

Despite the tumultuous start in our relationship, an alliance has since blossomed between the Moodras and the Jenistas, forged because of a shared enemy: Baleina.

According to Dylano, the sorceress' creations have incessantly invaded Moodra territories and turned them into hunting grounds, causing the loss of numerous lives, including that of a few Moodras. Since no amount of tribute could ever atone for such an act, Dylano has cried out for war. However, he acknowledges the godlike powers of Baleina, recognizing that she can't be defeated by his people alone. Hence, John has worked to establish alliances between Moodras and other races, until our forces amass the strength required to confront her.

Negotiations with the Moodras have progressed largely due to John's skills as a mediator, as well the peaceful nature of Jenistas who are used to diplomacy. Dylano's only request was for Baleina's lands to become his dominion, claiming every forest, lake, river, plain, and mountain currently occupied by her monstrous creations. In return, John asked Dylano to grant each participating species free passage through Moodra territories and the rights to eat specific fruits, mushrooms, and herbs that grow within their domain.

As of now, our strength remains inadequate to confront the malevolent witch. Thus, our only recourse is to defend our territory and remain hidden. However, I hope that other races will soon recognize the perils Baleina presents and join our cause, uniting to eradicate this common menace.

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04 Abda’s notes: Outworldly Threat
In accordance with our mandate, Adventure Magazine is tasked with assessing whether new species pose a threat to human civilization or not. In the case of Moodras, they can generally be deemed "safe" unless we trespass upon their territory. In the event that another breach occurs between the world of Erithia and our own, I am confident that the Moodras will respect the lands already occupied by human towns and farms.

However, Baleina is a peril of demonic proportions, and the world of Erithia itself perpetually threatens to absorb fragments from other realms. The deeper I delve into my investigations here, after being permanently transformed into a Jenista, the more I worry about the potential consequences should our worlds completely merge or if Baleina were to turn her attention towards us. Dina, regrettably, is the first person from our world to become her pawn, although it happened by pure accident, as her writings reveal.

Presently, Baleina displays a particular fascination with the world from which John came from; a realm far more technologically advanced than ours, but devoid of magic. Her primary goal, for now, revolves around the creation of a subservient race known as the Humalos, half-human and half-something. She manages to wipe their minds clean, rendering them loyal servants to do her bidding (excluding the first two, Shafine and Eranor, whom we managed to rescue because their mental changes weren’t as powerful as the later ones.)

For the time being, I strongly advise against dispatching any armies or heroes to Erithia. All indications point to the notion that the more individuals traverse the portals to Erithia, the closer the convergence of our two worlds becomes. The last thing I desire is for our world to be assimilated. Thus, I implore all relevant guilds to ensure the closure of all portals to Erithia and dissuading any adventurers from exploring this dangerous realm. Baleina's ability to manipulate and control the minds of humans grows stronger with each new victim, presenting a dire risk of our mightiest heroes being transformed into her puppets, turning the tide in her favor. Hopefully, the denizens of Erithia will vanquish this mad goddess without outside intervention. Yet, should she ever venture into our world, it would signify our very end.

Editor's Note: Adba delivered this article during her most recent visit to our clandestine outpost. She pledged to keep us informed of Baleina's activities and the looming specter of war. If the threat of invasion becomes inevitable, we must prepare to mobilize an army composed of golems and other artificial beings, impervious to her mental control.
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Thanks very much to my dear friend and proofreader

Commission journal:
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Description

[6.700 words] [Mind Change] [Permanent] [Unwilling] [Moodra-TF]
Commission for the lovely Thank you for supporting me! ^^
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Editorial Note: The article you are about to delve into had each of its halves written by a different reporter; Dina and Abda. Dedicated readers might recall Abda's notable contribution to our captivating Jenistas primer (Feathers and Scriptures - Article ) a few months ago. While featuring the story in such a way deviates from our customary practices here at Adventure Magazine, due to unforetold events, we were left with no alternative but to present this unique collaboration.

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Dina’s detour notes: Introduction
Rumors are always spreading. When our world houses so many marvelous sights, it’s only natural that some would misunderstand or attempt to fabricate their own. However, as a reporter at The Adventurer’s Magazine, it’s my job to inform what is real and what is fake. Be it monsters, ghosts, relics, ancient civilizations and whatnots, you can count on us to get you all the information you need before going on your own adventures!

The original plan of today was to track down a curious species of butterfly that leaves a rainbow colored dust behind when flying. Local villages have reported that such a creature has never existed on their land before. At first, some of them were worried that the anomalous dust could damage their crops. Others thought the creature could be a prank of some childish wizard. Either way, this was meant to be a minor, more lighthearted article between my more major projects, just a simple observation of a unique insect.

However, things escalated when one of the two sentry golems who protected the region went missing a few hours ago, so they feared something more sinister was going on. That was when I was called in.

Regardless, as the good reporter that I am, I began my investigation.

At least… That was what I thought.

Following the rainbow colored trail in the forest, armed with my tracking skills, I venture deeper and deeper into the tranquil thickets, crossing calm rivers and going up and down some hills. The place seemed boringly normal to me, until the pursuit led me to the huge, thick, and mossy stump of an ancient tree. It was as big as two peasant’s cottages!

To add to the spectacle, that hollow remnant had a wide opening on its side, like a tunnel that allowed me to see through it. Since the butterfly glimmer went right in, so did I.

As I began to cross through the gateway, I felt a strange change in the very air, which became moist and warm, contrary to the dry coldness of the pine-covered foliage behind me. Time seemed to slow down as I stepped through the stump, feeling small compared to its majesty.

Upon getting to the other side, I was surprised to emerge in a rainforest; adorned with tall grass and shrubberies that almost reached my knees; vibrant orchids hanging from the trunks and branches of every tree; wide bromeliads filled with water and frogs; multicolored mushrooms and moss covering most surfaces like a natural wallpaper; meandering overground roots running across the ground like tangled wires; and a flurry of airborne insects, including the very rainbow butterfly I had been searching all along. It felt like walking around a house that had mismatched rooms.

I continued to follow the butterfly's trail through that place that was so familiar yet so uncanny. An untrained eye would say it was a rainforest like all others, but little details made it strikingly clear that the place was unique. Namely, the aforementioned butterflies, but also flowers that had differently colored petals, and rocks that had intricate drawings on their surface.

It all seemed like a happy stroll until I saw, hanging from a nearby tree, the tail of a snake as thick as my leg. However, it was no common snake, but a creature that looked like something stitched together from discarded pieces of cloth. In some places, the fabric seams revealed glimpses of soiled cotton nestled within, exposing the unconventional composition of its organs.

At first glance, I mistook it for a lost toy, discarded and abandoned within the depths of the forest. Yet, as if responding to my presence, the creature stirred and animated before my eyes. A shiver coursed through my being, compelling me to instinctively take a step back. The very tongue of that artificial reptilian was nothing more than a shiny, red ribbon sticking out of its stitched mouth. To my astonishment, despite its lips being sealed, the creature hissed at me.

"Hello, stranger..." The creature's googly eyes, fashioned from two spherical glasses that each housed a single bead, spun in an hypnotic dance. Its stitched mouth remained closed yet articulated words that sounded muffled. "What brings you to this realm?"

As those words echoed through the air, the very same rainbow-colored butterfly, which had eluded my pursuit all along, landed upon the serpent's head. With a delicate flutter of its wings, the insect erupted into a radiant burst of vibrant hues, becoming a cloud of sparkling glitter. Without moving, the serpent absorbed the luminous particles, seamlessly integrating them into another patch of fabric, mending one of its many punctured gaps.

I realized with a jolt that the creature had lured me to that otherworldly realm. My years of adventuring had taught me about the hunting habits of many angler-like predators, and that snake acted exactly like one. I was definitely not equipped for that kind of situation! Curiosity begged me to stay and ask questions, but my survival instincts drove me to pivot and flee back towards the tree-gate from where I had come.

Alas, my hopes were dashed as I frantically retraced my steps, only to find that the entry to that jungle had vanished. The once-hollow bark had become solid, barring my way to the picturesque panorama of pine trees and majestic mountains. I stood disoriented, hands against the stump, a solitary figure amidst unfamiliar terrain, with an insidious predator stalking me from behind. My panicked self began to punch the tree, hoping that it would somehow open a secret passage.

In the next instant, the creature collided with my back; a plushy impact that reverberated through my spine, sending a hundred tiny shocks cascading throughout my body. It was as if new nerves were springing to life. I felt an unsettling pinch at the seat of my pants, followed by a tug, then an uncanny impression of possessing an additional limb. The snake had... attached itself to me, akin to a tail?

"It is rather impolite of you not to respond. However, I shall grant you forgiveness, for I find myself plagued by loneliness," the snake chuckled, its sinuous form entwining around me, the soft fabric caressing my skin as I was ensnared in its gentle yet unyielding embrace. "Ever since my creator abandoned me in this forest, I have yearned for a companion with whom to entertain myself."

The tiny shocks that had initially coursed through my spine now spread to my bones and muscles. It felt as though a thousand ants were playfully tickling me from within. My screams of terror were muffled by my own laughter, an unsettling blend, as I succumbed to the grassy floor beneath me. Encased within the serpent's woven prison, my voice was silenced by the walls of my clothy confines.

Thus, that was how my detour began. If you are reading these words, you can figure out that the snake did not end my life.

No… It orchestrated something else entirely…

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01 Dina’s notes: The Snake
As a seasoned reporter of Adventure Magazine, I had already experienced my fair share of transformations. Not only did my expedition to Frog-murk Bog lead to a nice article about bloat-ribbitting, not to mention the extended, primary-sourced report I did on the lives of Giant Fluffmoths. This time was no different. No matter what, I would always collect information for the magazine!

As the snake constricted me within its coils, my joints and limbs were contorted without pain into peculiar angles. My face elongated into a canine muzzle, complete with a moist nose. Fingers and toes dwindled to minuscule nubs, each adorned with squishy pads. I was reshaped as if I was made of clay. No. Not clay. More like… cotton?

"Fret not, dear vessel," the serpent hissed, its voice reaching my ears through the vibrations of its sinuous form. "A sliver of my creator's power was bestowed upon me. The essence of creation and fusion itself. Soon, thou too shall bear a portion of this might."

My muscles relaxed and almost dissolved, replaced by a tender, fluffy sensation akin to a pillow of unparalleled comfort. It was quite odd for me to be in a state of curious serenity while subjected to such an unfamiliar situation. Given those clues and the haziness enshrouding my thoughts, I realized a mental change was happening. My training had prepared me for this - I had to write about my experience while I still could! A good reporter would never leave an adventure unwritten!

"My artistry may not rival that of my creator, but in truth, we have fashioned a resplendent replica." The snake’s embrace began to weaken. "Methinks we can pass as a real Moodra."

With the culmination of my changes, the serpent released its grip, and I stood, or rather, stood upon my... fours? Curly, ivory fur now cloaked every inch of what used to be skin. Big, puffy paws, with orange claws, replaced my hands and feet. A pair of curving horns adorned my forehead, whilst pointed ears twitched right next to them. Yet, the most extravagant detail was that a long serpent, which had a will of its own, had become my tail.

Just like the snake, I also found myself formed by a colorful patchwork, hastily mended together by countless stitches and metallic things called “zippers”, which I had never seen before but somehow knew exactly what it was. My interior consisted of cotton, feathers and foam, which revealed themselves through the open seams in my skin.

Curiously, it felt entirely natural to exist and move around in that body, even if, deep down, I knew I was human. Somehow the motor skills were placed right into my brain…

Another intriguing detail captured my attention—a lengthy strand of rosy string encircled my neck, terminating in a levitating needle that seemed an extension of my being, moving in synchrony with my thoughts.

“A moodra, you said?” My voice emerged as a blend of growl and squeak. “Is that what I am now?”

“That’s what WE are now.” The snake nuzzled my neck, making the sound of two pillows rubbing against one another. “We are Moodra. We will live with other Moodras. We will learn about Moodra. And we will report everything back to mistress Baleina.”

“Moodra.” I nodded. Somehow the word made complete sense for me. It made more sense than the word human. My former human vessel seemed like a mere cocoon for what I had now become. No. What I was always meant to be.

Mental changes were strange. Obviously, I did know that the feelings I had were being dictated to me by my transformation, but that didn’t make it easier to resist them. Furthermore, I didn’t want to resist them. So long as I could still write down this experience, it was smarter to let the thoughts take over so that I would actually know how to control my new form.

I reached for my backpack, which was flopped on the grass, all of its contents scattered around. I located my notebook, quiver and inkwell, but as my hands stretched to pick them up, those furry paws proved unable to deal with that previously-mundane task. However, an instinct immediately kicked in and the levitating needle responded, attuned to my volition. It quickly stitched the pages together with the ink, causing words to pour all over it. The very words you are reading now were transcripted this way! The words describing everything that has happened to me up until this point.

My notebook, now infused with mystical ink, effortlessly transcribes my thoughts. The magical thread not only weaved mere words on the pages, but also the essence of all that surrounded me. Each puncture of my needle possesses the power of creation and fusion, making the paper and ink one with each other, and also one with me. Just like a pyromancer commands the element of fire and a hydromancer masters the element of water, so do I possess dominion over the forces of creation and combination.

With that formidable power, I held the ability to reshape all life and nonlife within my territory. The flora could be hybridized by my will; the insects could be united to form a new specimen; even the stones and mushrooms could be melded into something that was more than its individual parts. I contemplated whether sporecap spiders would grace my domain, or if I should instead focus on bumbrose-bees, or criketberry-ants, or perhaps a fusion of simpler creatures would be an appropriate start. By doing so, I would mark my claim upon that forest, putting my signature on everything, ensuring others would leave it undisturbed.

That was my domain, after all! It was my right to mold it to my likeness!... or so I believed, given no other creature matched me. Until a peculiar scent came through the air—a blend of smoldering coal and charred wood, bearing a signature akin to my own, yet attuned to a different element. How did I discern this?

"Another Moodra draws near," the serpent hissed, breaking the silence. "In truth... two of them." A momentary pause hung in the air. "For the sake of our mistress Baleina, we must investigate."

"For the mistress," I affirmed, nodding resolutely, before setting forth toward the signatures.

I must find my kin, my pack, united once more.

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02 Dina’s notes: The Moodra
As I approached a clearing, the first thing that came to sight was a towering golem crafted from rocks and entwined roots, adorned with animation runes. The audacity of trespassing into Moodra territory was unforgivable! However, to my surprise, I recognized that behemoth as the guardian of the village my human form had visited earlier that morning. Had it traversed the same portal before me? Had others come to explore that land?

My attention then turned to the valiant figures bravely confronting the creature. One bore vibrant orange fur, a crimson serpent-tail, and a fiery halo encircling its neck. The other possessed cream-white fur, a snake-tail of pale blue hue, yet no visible manifestation of an element around its neck... though if an element lay concealed, it eluded my gaze.

The orange Moodra conjured torrents of fire, which swirled like tendrils, engulfing the golem in a controlled combustion that spared the verdant surroundings. Not a single leaf of grass was burned. Only the roots that breathed life into the golem succumbed to the flame.

The second Moodra danced with ethereal grace, causing the air itself to shimmer and ripple. Waves of force crashed upon the golem's chest, like the winds of a hurricane, causing its very foundation to quake and crumble with each impact.

The orange Moodra didn’t seem happy. It puffed and said: “Damned be this thing!”

The white one replied in a calm voice: “Let’s not lose our temper. There must be a way.”

The runes flashed, followed by a loud grumble. The indomitable monster sprang back to life, persisting in its insidious assault upon our sacred territory. It absorbed roots and rocks from the earth, seeking to reconstruct its form for a second assault. Yet, before it could even raise an arm, the two Moodras halted its uprising once more... though the sentinel remained resolute, like an unstoppable avalanche.

"We must intercede to win their allegiance." My serpent whispered, its voice a mere hiss in the air. “But first, let's make ourselves presentable.”

My body instantly felt tight as every open seam closed itself. Then I felt warm as the faux fur that covered me became real. Next, I felt heavier, as my insides turned to flesh and bones. Finally, my very snake-tail gained actual scales and vivid eyes. That would trick the other two Moodras… hopefully.

I jumped forth and commanded the magical thread around my neck to stretch, allowing the needle to go straight for the golem. Drawing upon my recollections from my previous human existence, I tapped into my knowledge on magical constructs. As the needle punctured the golem's exterior repeatedly, I rearranged the intricate web of runes that covered it, until their once-potent magic faltered. In an instant, the roots shriveled and crumbled away, while the once-mighty stones surrendered to the pull of gravity, cascading into an unassuming mound.

The threat, now reduced to an inert pile of rocks and withered roots, was vanquished. I had defended our territory. I had protected our sanctuary. I was overwhelmed by a primitive feeling of self fulfillment. The ecstasy after the hunt.

“Thank you kindly, stranger!” The white Moodra said in her calm voice, and the snake-tail continued: “You wield quite an interesting element.”

“Bah!” The orange Moodra growled, and its snake-tail said what its mouth did not: “We could’ve done it without you. You only finished the creature because we had exhausted it already… sssssss”

My instincts told me the white one was a pack leader. She was higher in rank than me, the orange one, and possibly many other Moodras. Without questioning, I bowed my head to her… and my serpent tail did the same.

"My name is Dina." I said, as if talking to a queen. "I'm pleased to join your pack."

"Well… I am Lara, and this brave warrior next to me is Fran." She put a paw on top of my head. "Welcome to our secret forest. The realm of elements."

"Not so secret anymore." Fran huffed, and the snake continued. "Invaders have been showing up a lot lately… sssssss."

I feigned ignorance about the invaders, and even about myself. I was a full Moodra now. There was no reason to worry my pack mates with the confusing details about my past. I was one of them now. That was all that mattered. Besides, I needed to collect more information for mistress Baleina… I mean… for the magazine!

My snake tail replied before I could say anything; "We'll love to help you all against these otherworldly threats who dare venture into our realm… sssssss."

Apparently, the other two bought it.

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03 Dina’s notes: The Hideout
Guided by the two Moodras, we traversed the labyrinthine depths of the verdant wilderness, venturing through rivers adorned with colorful stones, going across majestic peaks sculpted by eons of relentless wind, navigating past marshes where aerial roots wove an intricate spaghetti shape, and delving into sprawling plains where golden grasses shimmered like gold. For the ordinary explorer, it would appear as if we had undertaken an arduous journey across vast distances, yet each landscape was but a small fragment, swiftly morphing into something entirely new after less than a mile. This realm was akin to a colossal patchwork blanket, where disparate elements combined… as if the gods had weaved a tapestry of the unknown, sketching the blueprint of a world yet to fully manifest.

"I must confess I am new here." I uttered, crafting a half-truth. "I’ve grown alone in these lands, with you two being the first Moodras I have encountered. I fear my ignorance of your customs makes me a savage."

"Fear not, stranger," reassured Lara, her voice devoid of weariness despite the formidable encounter with the golem and the treacherous terrain we traversed. "You are now our kin, bound by the ties of our shared destiny. Together, we must defend what is rightfully ours."

I nodded, relief washing over me... My ruse had proven effective... Or so I believed, for now.

Amidst our enigmatic journey, there were moments when it felt as though we were going in circles. Uncertainty gnawed at my core, clouding my perception. Was the realm intentionally playing tricks on my sense of direction, or did my newfound companions doubt my trustworthiness? What if they sensed my oddness? Would they detect the unfamiliar scent that clung to me? Could my unconventional fur betray my disguise? Had I accidentally exposed my secret identity?

“Are we there yet?” I inquired, trying to contain my discomfort.

"We have no alliances aside from our own. We must safeguard our land from trespassers." Declared Fran, the orange-hued Moodra, while its serpentine tail coiled in agreement. "Only those we hunt may share our domain, for they pay the ultimate price with their very livessssss. This is nothing but fair."

“Is that an answer?” I attempted to not sound rude.

"Our forest hides itself through arcane arts." Lara giggled, her laughter carrying a tone of amusement as if teaching a curious child. "The path reveals itself solely to those who traverse the mystical currents of the leylines."

"So... Moodras must hide themselves?" I probed, seeking clarification.

"We do not hide out of cowardice! We shield our land because our enemy uses vile sorceries that should never have existed!" retorted Fran, his serpent-tail hissing in agreement. "We shroud not ourselves, but the land, because the evil god-sorceress seeks to corrupt it with her abominations."

"Evil god-sorceress?" I inquired. Although, deep inside, I sensed I knew who she was.

"The wretched monster breeder!" Seethed Fran, flames of anger smoldering within its reddened gaze. “The kidnapper; the enslaver; the mad goddess; the false queen. She dares lay claim to a world that is not rightfully hers! She even wants the sacred lands of Moodra! She acts as if she's the heir of the world! Unlike her, we Moodras defend our territory with our own might, while she employs her abominations as mere thugs."

"I suspect that golem was a creation of her dark arts." I lied, fully aware that the creature had emerged from my own realm. "We were fortunate to defeat it." My concealed satisfaction swelled, for I knew that if the golem was truly a craft of my mistress, these two Moodras stood no chance.

"Indeed, it bears the hallmarks of her vile craftsmanship." Affirmed Lara, her nod conveying agreement. "Fashioned from rocks and roots, such a thing could only be a fruit of her malevolent imagination."

My snake tail took a deep breath and I clenched my teeth, suppressing the impulse to retaliate against their insolence. I reminded myself to be patient. Soon, they would lead me to their land, and I would report their location back to Mistress Baleina. Oh, how she would shower me, her creation, with praise and approval.

Our trip didn’t take much longer. Soon, we stood in front of a majestic mountain of solid stone that extended almost to the horizon. Lara cleared her throat and then, with a powerful howl, unleashed a melody that resonated through the air. It almost sounded like an order in musical form. As if she was a queen that commanded her subjects with the beautiful notes of a symphony. Although, she would never rule over me, of course.

To my surprise, the rocks before her dissolved into dust, revealing a hidden passage to a cavern. Its interior was adorned with softly glowing bioluminescent mushrooms, which painted the walls with a green hue. Did their sanctuary require a magical password?

"Behold, stranger." Lara beamed, stepping into the cavern and gesturing with her head for us to follow. "One of our many entrances, known only to those who understand the leylines of this world… Such as the Moodra."

“Is this your only territory?” I asked, only a few yards behind Lara, our bodies looking greenish thanks to fungal lights.

"Nonsense!" Fran shouted, his voice echoing through the tunnel. "The place you are about to witness is our most sacred domain, but the majority of this realm belongs to us! It is our hunting ground, where we lay claim over every prey and every fruit that exists over our land. The land is ours because we fiercely defend it."

“Rawr!” A feral growl involuntarily escaped my maw, as if awakened by their talk of hunting, territorial marking, and the pride of our Moodra heritage. The final stages of my transformation, dormant until now, surged forth, accompanied by a subtle mental shift. It felt as though fragments of my human knowledge vanished to make way for the instincts and essence of a true Moodra. However, despite the many changes, my unwavering loyalty to my mistress Baleina remained. The sole tether to my former self. She would always be my true mistress… she always was my true mistress… and I would do anything necessary to make Baleina the true queen of the Moodras.

As great reporter I am, I contin-e narrat- adv-nt-r- in strang- land for mistr-ss Bal-ina r-ad lat-r -=_;>,.}[´~+-=~-;~>⇊Ϗ⇄↽⇀ᛮ⬱⥵↲–↮⇚⦽⇋⇅—႟↾⇁ϓ⇊⥳↽↿⇇ᛯ⇅-⇄⇈↿↾⇅⇈ϕ⇄⇄–϶⇈↝↡⬼-=_;>,.}[´~+-=~-;~>⇊Ϗ⇄↽⇀ᛮ⬱⥵↲–↮⇚⦽⇋⇅—႟↾⇁ϓ⇊⥳↽↿⇇ᛯ⇅-⇄⇈↿↾⇅⇈ϕ⇄⇄–϶⇈↝↡⬼

[Editor’s note: The ensuing passage presents an enigmatic compilation of characters, spanning hundreds of pages, similar to the scribbles of a child trying to emulate the writings of an adult. Our linguists have attempted to form a language basis from these scratches, but the deeper we delve into these written fragments, the more any semblance of logic seems to dissipate, leaving behind mere cryptic lines randomly drawn over the paper. The precise intentions behind Dina's text remain unknown, yet we have come to the predominant conclusion, here at Adventurer’s Magazine, that this shift represents the loss of her ability to form written words. This peculiarity deserves an important note in our comprehension of the entity known as Moodra, which, despite its capacity for vocal communication, appears incapable of written expression. Either that, or their system of textual communication is beyond our comprehension.]

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Abda’s notes: Moodra Primer
The texts written by our former reporter Dina were discovered by me at the doorsteps of Baleina’s cottage. Fortunately, I was able to retrieve them before the witch had a chance to read. I can’t even imagine what horrors Baleina would’ve done if she discovered the Moodras’ hideout.

Using my understanding of her “mistress’s” mannerisms, I crafted a false letter, pretending to be her, and secretly delivered it to Dina. In the letter, I instructed her to stay with the Moodra in their hidden forest and never leave until further orders arrived, no matter how many years or decades passed.

It deeply hurts my heart to see my former fellow reporter in this state. As researchers, every reporter for the Adventurer’s Magazine is prepared to face a journey they may not return from, but that does not calm my feathers. Dina, though perhaps a bit over-obsessive when it came to collecting data, was one of our most reputable writers and a good friend to those who met her. We hope to see her return someday.

I also urged her to act loyal to the leaders of the Moodra, Lara and Dylano, and provide them with assistance in any way possible. I hope these measures will ensure the safety of Erithia, and also protect Dina from getting into trouble until we find a way to change her back.

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01 Abda’s notes: What is a Moodra
Within the enigmatic realm of Erithia, a domain that remains shrouded in mystery and demands further exploration, exists a species known as Moodra. These creatures bear a striking resemblance to the dire wolves most adventurers are used to, both in size and physical appearance. However, their distinct attributes are unlike anything we've ever studied.

First of all, among their remarkable traits is their ability to communicate vocally, speaking every syllable from our own language. In addition to this linguistic prowess, Moodras possess a range of lupine barks, growls, whimpers, and purrs. Because both their faces are devoid of expression, these primal sounds serve to convey a myriad of emotions. While some of their emotions align with familiar human experiences such as happiness, anger, comfort, and fear, Moodra also manifest more primitive sentiments that have no parallel in our human society.

Despite their initial semblance to dire wolves, it is important to note that Moodras are a combination of two bodies. In place of the usual furry appendage, they possess a snake as their tail. At first sight, this serpentine companion appears to be a distinct entity, possessing the ability to speak independently and frequently completing phrases initiated by the wolf head.

These snake-tails exhibit a spectrum of communication styles — while some are more talkative, others are extremely silent. It is also noteworthy to point out that variations exist between the personalities of snake tails and their lupine counterparts, since they can sometimes behave as polar opposites. However, despite these eventual distinctions between the two heads, Moodras perceive themselves as a unified entity. (The closest analogy I can think of is between us and our hearts. Even if we have no control over this organ, it is still part of us. The snake tail would be an extreme example of this)

Even in cases where the two halves speak and act differently, seemingly as opposite personalities, the two never disagree on any decisions that must be made, nor do they partake in disputes amongst themselves. From this, I suspect that these remarkable creatures share a singular consciousness, which expresses different facets of itself on each of the heads.

An additional facet of Moodras lies in their aptitude to magically harness a singular element, which is proudly displayed around their necks, like a collar. Among the common elements observed are fire, water, earth, wood, and ice, each bestowing the Moodras with the ability to summon it whenever they want. Yet, there exist exceptional individuals whose traits set them apart from their kin.

Lara, esteemed as the female leader of the Moodras, possesses a rare mastery over the element of air. While invisible to the naked eye, an ethereal vortex encircles her neck, its presence subtly revealed only when an errant leaf or spec of dust is caught within its currents.

Our former-reporter Dina became an intriguing figure in her own right, wielding the unique element of creation. This manifests as a long thread gracefully draped around her neck, accompanied by a carrot-sized needle that levitates and responds to her commands. This ability to manipulate things by stitching them together and combining them into one doesn’t appear natural among any other animal of Erithia. I suspect this is a result of her artificial creation, giving her a fraction of Baleina’s power. Thankfully her powers are very limited, and only work on inanimate objects and very tiny critters.

Lastly, we turn our attention to Dylano, an esteemed figure renowned as the epitome of Moodra mastery. Regarded as the male ruler among their kind, Dylano has achieved unparalleled command over the common elements (except the element of creation). Instead of adorning his neck with a signature of his prowess, Dylano's four limbs are covered by all the elements he has tamed.

With lifespans that can range from fifty to a hundred years, leaders such as Dylano and Lara must always worry about leaving behind an offspring that would be up to the task of representing their race. Although family ties can be an important factor among Moodra, this is not always the case, since a weak leader can always be challenged by someone more powerful. Dylano was not born into a leader family, but became such thanks to his mastery over many elements.

These creatures are not only powerful on their own, thanks to their magic, but also relatively dangerous to study because of reasons I’ll clarify in the next topic.

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02 Abda’s notes: Territory and Hunt
Moodras possess an omnivorous appetite, savoring a diverse diet of fruits and meat. However, they exhibit a particular inclination towards fish, small mammals, and avians (including Jenistas such as myself). Their predatory habits serve two purposes, the primary being an obvious need for nourishment, while the secondary revolves around protecting their territories against perceived threats.

Well-fed Moodras rarely attack most denizens of the wild. I have personally witnessed birds nonchalantly resting upon their heads, rabbits playing under their shadows, and fish carelessly swimming around them. Small creatures, it seems, feel safe in the presence of the wolf-snake duo, perceiving them as a natural deterrent against other predators. Moodras often speak of a concept they call "life tax", wherein these critters serve as a tribute, providing nourishment whenever the Moodras' hunger demands it.

However, Moodras are always violent towards creatures of medium size or larger, no matter if hungry or not. These beings are renowned for their territorial nature, aggressively defending their domains against intruders. They start with guttural growls and menacing barks, warning potential adversaries to keep away or perish. Their patience drains fast, however, and if the creature does not leave, Moodras will be quick to employ their arsenal of claws, fangs, and elemental powers, never hesitating to use lethal force.

Fortunately, both myself, a Jenista, and my companion John, a rabbit, are exempt from the label of invaders within the eyes of the Moodras. They permit our presence, even engaging in conversations with us... That is, unless their stomachs are not full. I still remember the day when a hungry Moodra lunged at us. I was luckily able to seize John with my talons and take flight to safety, but if I was a moment too late we’d both be prey. The memory of that encounter continues to haunt my dreams.

Although Moodras have no “town” or “kingdom”, they have a special interest in a hidden forest, which they treat as an ancestral ground. It can only be accessed through a network of tunnels that are illuminated by shining mushrooms, and these caverns can lead to many different places within Erithia. Curiously, there is no way to reach it by flight, since the place exists in a type of “pocket dimension” (I suspect Erithia not only abducts creatures, but also the very space of other realms, like a world that eats other worlds).

The size of their hidden forest is as big as three human kingdoms. As for the actual size of their territory outside the ancestral ground, it is difficult to estimate, for they lay claim to any land they can protect. As Moodras reproduce, their thirst for territory intensifies, driving them to engage in confrontations with any adversaries that dare to challenge their dominion. In one of the many talks I and John had with Dylano and Lara, they told us their expansion used to be fast paced, but lately they are having troubles dealing with Baleina’s abominations. The sorceress has been recently setting her failed experiments free in the forest, presenting an ongoing threat.

Indeed, Baleina's disruptive influence reverberates far beyond the boundaries of the Moodra realm. It is easy to conclude that she is dangerous not only for Erithia, but also toward other worlds, which leads us to the next topic.

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03 Abda’s notes: Diplomacy
Despite their insatiable ambition to expand their dominion, Moodras abide by an unwritten code when it comes to lands inhabited by other social creatures (such as Jenistas). Since they are capable of talking, they are also capable of getting into agreements and negotiations, respecting the territories of sovereign species. Thus, whenever John and I venture into their realms, we must be accompanied by either Dylano or Lara, lest we be deemed invaders, risking a conflict between our races. This practice intertwines with another unspoken principle known as the "right to retaliate," which permits Moodras to occupy the lands of any species for a singular hunt if the said species has disrespected their borders, unless restitution in the form of wergild is paid.

While the the term "wergild" is not part of their lexicon, as it is a human concept, the essence remains akin to the practices observed among human kingdoms and clans. However, instead of demanding gold and silver, Moodras request payment in foodstuffs. (Upon my initial venture into their lands for study purposes, this almost ignited a conflict with them. To appease their ire, we Jenistas had to offer a substantial tribute of countless berries, fish and nuts.)

Despite the tumultuous start in our relationship, an alliance has since blossomed between the Moodras and the Jenistas, forged because of a shared enemy: Baleina.

According to Dylano, the sorceress' creations have incessantly invaded Moodra territories and turned them into hunting grounds, causing the loss of numerous lives, including that of a few Moodras. Since no amount of tribute could ever atone for such an act, Dylano has cried out for war. However, he acknowledges the godlike powers of Baleina, recognizing that she can't be defeated by his people alone. Hence, John has worked to establish alliances between Moodras and other races, until our forces amass the strength required to confront her.

Negotiations with the Moodras have progressed largely due to John's skills as a mediator, as well the peaceful nature of Jenistas who are used to diplomacy. Dylano's only request was for Baleina's lands to become his dominion, claiming every forest, lake, river, plain, and mountain currently occupied by her monstrous creations. In return, John asked Dylano to grant each participating species free passage through Moodra territories and the rights to eat specific fruits, mushrooms, and herbs that grow within their domain.

As of now, our strength remains inadequate to confront the malevolent witch. Thus, our only recourse is to defend our territory and remain hidden. However, I hope that other races will soon recognize the perils Baleina presents and join our cause, uniting to eradicate this common menace.

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04 Abda’s notes: Outworldly Threat
In accordance with our mandate, Adventure Magazine is tasked with assessing whether new species pose a threat to human civilization or not. In the case of Moodras, they can generally be deemed "safe" unless we trespass upon their territory. In the event that another breach occurs between the world of Erithia and our own, I am confident that the Moodras will respect the lands already occupied by human towns and farms.

However, Baleina is a peril of demonic proportions, and the world of Erithia itself perpetually threatens to absorb fragments from other realms. The deeper I delve into my investigations here, after being permanently transformed into a Jenista, the more I worry about the potential consequences should our worlds completely merge or if Baleina were to turn her attention towards us. Dina, regrettably, is the first person from our world to become her pawn, although it happened by pure accident, as her writings reveal.

Presently, Baleina displays a particular fascination with the world from which John came from; a realm far more technologically advanced than ours, but devoid of magic. Her primary goal, for now, revolves around the creation of a subservient race known as the Humalos, half-human and half-something. She manages to wipe their minds clean, rendering them loyal servants to do her bidding (excluding the first two, Shafine and Eranor, whom we managed to rescue because their mental changes weren’t as powerful as the later ones.)

For the time being, I strongly advise against dispatching any armies or heroes to Erithia. All indications point to the notion that the more individuals traverse the portals to Erithia, the closer the convergence of our two worlds becomes. The last thing I desire is for our world to be assimilated. Thus, I implore all relevant guilds to ensure the closure of all portals to Erithia and dissuading any adventurers from exploring this dangerous realm. Baleina's ability to manipulate and control the minds of humans grows stronger with each new victim, presenting a dire risk of our mightiest heroes being transformed into her puppets, turning the tide in her favor. Hopefully, the denizens of Erithia will vanquish this mad goddess without outside intervention. Yet, should she ever venture into our world, it would signify our very end.

Editor's Note: Adba delivered this article during her most recent visit to our clandestine outpost. She pledged to keep us informed of Baleina's activities and the looming specter of war. If the threat of invasion becomes inevitable, we must prepare to mobilize an army composed of golems and other artificial beings, impervious to her mental control.
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Thanks very much to my dear friend and proofreader

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