With deliberate precision, his left hand inserted the witch mother crystal half ball into its socket. Taking and dropping the unpacked, singular feather from his right hand, his left hand then intertwined his fingers in the initial gesture for the ritual.
“Well then, a shitload of poison it is.”
As the Vicha bulged in, cascaded down the crater, veins extending toward him, Yves completed the ritual. He paused just before drawing the last sign, enduring endless seconds for the veins to spill over him.
Breathe.
Merry Christmas!

Dear travellers,
As the holiday season 2023 unfolds, I would love to extend my warmest wishes to each of you. May you find moments of peace and joy with your loved ones, whether they are beside you or reside within your hearts.
If these days prove challenging rather than celebratory, I hope you can find solace in the things that bring you happiness.
For me, stories hold such value. They have the power to enrich our lives profoundly, offering us the freedom to escape our own limited worlds, especially during difficult times. I love to be a reader and a writer, because it allows me to live more than just my own life.
Wishing you health and happiness and the comfort that stories bring.
With heartfelt appreciation,
The Duckman

Well now, he cannot always be depressed — so here is a younger, more festive version of Yves, sprung from student days at Emery Thurm.
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