A Recipe on Having Perfect Confidence!
Works for 1 person

Ingredients:
1/2 cup of a smile
A pinch of courage
2 tablespoons of good friends
1 cup of healthy body image
500 cups of positivity
Optional:
1/3 cup of self-awareness to prevent a large ego

Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 1000000000 degrees posititive attitude in a safe, comfortable space
2. Mix together courage, good friends, and smile in a medium bowl
3. Using a stand mixer, beat body image and self-awareness until thick and strong
4. On low speed, slowly add in ingredients from step 2
5. Once fully combined, whisk in positivity until satisfied and happy with yourself
6. If the mixture is not fully ready, Let it sit in the fridge for as long as it takes to become glowy and radiating confidence

Baking:
1. Pour into an eight-inch pan
2. Bake for 1 hour on the top rack
3. Take it out of the oven and let it cool for 30 minutes
4. Remove from pan and dump it in the garbage because you can't make confidence in a cake.
5. After discarding the cake, surround yourself with your favourite people who make you feel good and channel all your strengths. Smile. There you have it! Keep practicing this to have the perfect confidence and don't waste your time making this fake recipe!

Reviews:
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ - This recipe worked perfectly! Now I have the confidence to do anything! (Reviewed by Anna B.)
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ - I feel happy and confident after using this recipe! It is exactly as show! (Reviewed by Lucas W.)
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ - I tried this recipe and it gave me the confidence to run for class president! I won! (Reviewed by Maria L.)
⭐️ - It wasn't a cake. I wanted something to eat. (Reviewed by Owen C.)

Daily #27 - Jan 27 2025: Side Character Fanfic
Word Count: 421


“Madge!” Madge's father called. She sighed and came down the stairs into the kitchen.

“Yes?” She asked. Her father, the mayor of District 12, was already dressed and ready for work. Her mother still wasn't anywhere to be seen.

“Your mother isn't feeling well. Take care of her please, and run the errands,” He said. “I'm leaving for work.” Madge nodded.

“Okay. I will,” She replied politely.

“Thanks, Madge. Goodbye, honey!” My father smiled and left for work. She sighed. She should probably start with breakfast. There were a couple eggs in the fridge, so she put a pan on the stove and cooked them up.

Madge poured two glasses of milk and set one on the side with one of the eggs. She took the plate and cup upstairs to her mother and knocked gently on the door. “Mom?” She called, “I have breakfast.”

“Come in,” Her mother said groggily. Madge entered with the food.

“How are you?” She asked.

“Fine,” Her mother groaned, massaging her head.

“Are you hungry?” Madge asked quietly, being careful not to make her mother's headache worse.

“Thank you,” Her mother forced a small smile.

“Call for me if you need anything,” Madge whispered, “I'll be running errands for a bit, though.”

“That's alright. I'm probably just going to take a nap.”

“Okay. Bye,” Madge closed the door to her parent's bedroom and softly tip-toed down the stairs. She grabbed her bag and headed outside to do what her father had requested.

First, she went to the bakery, then to the market. Madge was on her way home when she saw Katniss and Gale coming back from hunting.

“Madge! Hi,” Katniss greeted her.

“Hi, Katniss,” Madge smiled.

“How are you? It's been- a while,” Katniss winced, thinking about all that had been happening in the last few months.

"I'm good. But how are you?“ Madge asked. Katniss looked uncomfortable and ignored the question.

”Gale, say hi, won't you?“ Katniss gave her friend a look. He frowned.

”Madge. Nice to see you,“ He said forcefully. Madge smiled back anyways.

”Nice to see you, too,“ She said curtly. Gale just looked away.

”I have to go. Sorry, Madge,“ Katniss said, holding up a rabbit and some-sort of bird.

”Alright. Bye, Katniss,“ Madge replied, ”Goodbye, Gale." She waved and headed back to her house, thinking about her mom, her lost aunt, and if Katniss would ever recover. She hoped she would, but with the Hunger Games, you never really know.

Dailies

January 1st: Welcome to the first day of camp! Start to get to know your cabin mates, meet other campers, and introduce yourself in the comments! We're so excited for this session, and there are definitely going to be so many new memories made here <3

January 2nd:
What's that… oh! It's just the pink sky! From Star Wars to The Martian, science fiction writing has captured the imaginations of many. What better way to celebrate that than on National Science Fiction Day? That's right, it's time to travel to other universes- from space academies to exploring other planets, there is something in this genre for everybody. For this daily write 400 words of any type of science fiction story for 300 points, 100 extra for proof.

January 3rd:
Titles are a very powerful thing, and sometimes they influence your writing. Today, all you have to do is to write 250 words in a story titled “Oasis” for 100 points. Although everyone's titles will be exactly the same, check out another person's writing and notice the similarities and differences in both of your stories. What do you notice? If you provide proof you can get an extra 100 points <3

January 4th:
Understanding your characters is an important part of writing any story, so today we're going to be working on character development! so, for today's daily we're going to be making character sheets! in your character sheet include the following information and anything else that could help us get to know your character: name, age, gender + pronouns, appearance, family, friends, relationships?, education level, religion, birthday, hometown, personality (include positive and negative traits). Write 200 words for 150 points, and an extra 50 points for sharing!

January 5th:
Hear that chirping outside? Yup- it's the birds! Ever wonder what they're singing about: lost love, the morning, the promise of food? Well, today you get to answer that question for yourself. Write a 150 word poem about what makes those birds outside sing for 100 points!

January 6th:
For today's daily, we're going to be exploring a sci-fi writing prompt! Write a 300 word story about a world where artificial intelligence has become sentient, explore the consequences of an AI uprising and the ethical dilemmas faced by humans and machines alike. This daily is worth 150 points, and an extra 150 points if you give proof.

January 7th: Songwriting is a form of writing that is a big part of any culture, and most authors have often overlooked it. Today, we want you to include a lyric from a song of your choice, and write 350 words around the meaning of that lyric for 300 points. Get an extra 100 points if you share your daily <3

January 8th: Time is a very funny thing, isn't it? It's more of a broad topic than a set fact. Although we might not still know how exactly time works, create a story where time is different. What will happen because of that? Does it impact people's daily lives? What goes on in that world? Write 300 words for 150 points! If you share your writing you can get 150 points more!

January 9th: Have you ever wanted to argue about whether it should be cereal before milk or milk before cereal? Well, today's your lucky day! For this daily, write 250 words arguing either point for 150 points, and 100 extra with proof. Who knows, maybe you'll be able to convince someone to join your side in this endless war…

January 10th: Snow is a marvelous thing, and today you'll be writing about it! From symbolizing a character's emotions, highlighting the uniqueness of something (after all, no two snowflakes are alike!), or melting away to reveal the warmth of spring, it can be a magical aide in the stories you spin ✨For this daily, your task is to write 300 words using snow in a significant manner for 200 points (and an extra 100 points for sharing proof)!

January 11th: Time for the first cabin wars of the session! Go to this link here to understand the rules and start warring: link
Good luck to all cabins and I hope you all make it out alive <3

January 12th: Hey, can anybody get me out of here? I'm kinda tired of being stuck in this book. I just want to get back home. For this daily write about a character that knows they are trapped in a story. But the catch is that they don't want to be there. Write a 350 word story for 200 points. Provide proof in the comments for 100 extra points. Good luck!

January 13th:
Today is Make Your Dreams Come True Today, and we hope you all will today <3 but another thing you can do is to write about anyone, an already existing character, your own, someone you know, having their dreams come true! What happens? What do they want? Answer all these questions and more by writing at least 200 words for 100 points! You can get 100 points if you share this daily.

January 14th:
For this daily, all you need is to read a book. Well, you also have to write, of course ;D Is there a book that you wish you could change the ending of? Maybe the love triangle didn't go the way you wanted it to, or maybe someone died, or maybe the city got taken over by the villain. The possibilities are literally endless. For this daily, we're going to be rewriting that ending. You can make it however you want! Just make sure you write 350 words to claim 300 points, and an extra 100 points if you share proof! Have fun!

January 15th:
Today's daily is super fun and easy, too! We're taking today to focus on poetry. All you have to do is complete at least 3 of the following tasks using at least 200 words in order to claim 150 points! Share your poems for an extra 50 points. But here's the catch- all of your tasks have to include the word “tubular”. Haaaave funnnn! ;D
1. Write an acrostic poem
2. Write a sonnet
3. Write a haiku
4. Write an ode
5. Write a limerick

January 16th:
We're focusing on you today! As you probably know, Taylor Swift made the term “in my ____ era” popular. Today we're going to talk about what era you're in! Take whatever era you're in- maybe it's speech, music, sports, cats, etc- and write about it. What is your era? What do you do? How do you act? Are you proud of their era? Write about it! To claim 100 points, write 200 words! Get an extra 100 points for sharing.

January 17th:
What would happen if you were to set foot into your ally's cabin? What about your enemy's? Today we're writing about it! Write two short stories about going into your ally and your enemy's cabins. These two stories must be at least 200 words each and 400 words total in order to claim 300 points! Have fun! Share your piece for 100 extra points!

January 18th:
Characters change–that's practically the core of every story we write about them! Can you think of a dramatic moment showcasing character development in one of your favorite stories? Maybe they've done something they swore that they'd never do, or they finally open up to another character. Today, you'll be writing your very own dramatic character change moment–but! there's a catch… the character must cut their hair as their moment ;D it's up to you to come up with the reason this is significant; maybe it's an act of rebellion or maybe it's simply a symbol of a bigger change happening inside. For whatever reason, write 350 words of a dramatic haircut scene for 300 points–and you can earn yourself 50 additional points if you share proof!!

January 19th:
Most stories have a protagonist and an antagonist or a hero and a villain. Perhaps it is a superhero fighting a supervillain, a school situation with a bully, or enemies in war. Now what would happen if these enemies had double lives, where in one they were friends and in the other, they were at each other's throats. Write a story of at least 350 words about two characters with double lives, who happen to know each other in both lives, yet have completely opposite relationships in each life. Perhaps it is a superhero and a supervillain who are college roommates, who hide the secret of their crime fighting or crime doing life. Or perhaps the boss they hate is their best friend over the internet. The options are numerous! Complete this for 300 points for your cabin. For an extra 50 points, share your story in the comments!

January 20th: Video games are all the rage these days. Whether it is on a console, a phone, or a computer, very few people have not played an online game. Today, we are going to combine the joys of writing with the entertainment of a video game. Write a story with a video game as the key component in your writing. Perhaps it's the setting of the story (have you ever wanted to live in Minecraft?) or a game that plays the central aspect of the plot, a video game must be a major part of your story. Write 250 words for 100 points, and an extra 150 if you share <3

January 21st:
Time is a very funny thing, isn't it? It's more of a broad topic than a set fact. Although we might not still know how exactly time works, create a story where time is different. What will happen because of that? Does it impact people's daily lives? What goes on in that world? Write 200 words for 150 points, 50 extra if you share!

January 22nd:
An apple a day keeps the doctor away! At least, that's how the saying goes. Today's daily is going to be all about apples. There are over 7500 different kinds of apples. For this daily, pick out any kind of apple. Look into its name, color, taste, and characteristics, such as where it is grown, how it is grown, and more. Then, write something inspired by your apple of choice. Perhaps you have a character named Honey Crisp, who has a sweet personality but can be a bit tart at times. Or perhaps you'll write about a strange city where everyone is sour called Smith's Land. Write 300 words about your apple for 200 points, 100 more if you share!

January 23rd:
Fun fact: The French Horn was not made in France, rather, the modern-day version came from Germany! This is known as a misnomer, a name that is incorrectly or unsuitably implied. For today's daily, we're going to be writing something surrounding a misnomer. Perhaps it is a story surrounding an already common misnomer, or you make your misnomer for your own unique word. For this daily, write 250 words for 150 points, if you share your story, add 100 points!

January 24th:
Meow! Bark! Chirp! Haven't you always wondered what’s going on in an animal's brain? Animals are fascinating and how they behave and communicate with one another is quite interesting as well. Today you get to write about yourself from the perspective of an animal. Pick anything from a random frog on a windowsill to a blue whale swimming through the depths of the ocean. Write a 450 word narrative for 300 points. Provide proof for an extra 100 points. Now get to it!

January 25th: It's time for what you've all been waiting for… cabin wars! Though you may already know some of the rules, go back here to reread them just in case you've forgotten anything:
Make sure to get enough sleep and write as much as you are able to! May the odds ever be in your favor <3


January 26th:
A cup of hard work and a teaspoon of dedication as well as a dash of motivation. These are some of the ingredients for the recipe to success. Now go and write a 150 word recipe for a concept or idea such as happiness or true love. Include things like ingredients, amounts, and orders. Instructions for baking and serving should also be included. You get 200 points for this daily and an extra 100 for proof.

January 27th:
Have you ever read a book/watched a movie or TV show and wished your favorite side character got more screen/page time, or more attention in general? Well today is your lucky day, because now you can do it for yourself! For todays daily, write 300 words of a fanfiction about your favorite side character! You can explore this character's thoughts during the main story, or write a completely new story featuring them, it's up to you! This daily is worth 200 points. You can provide proof for an extra 100 points!

January 28th:
If there was a zombie apocalypse… would you be prepared? Well, you don't have to worry about that anymore, since today we're going to be taking care of writing out a plan to survive the apocalypse. First, write a plan about how you would survive the zombie apocalypse. Then, write 400 words of yourself or a fictional character attempting to follow that plan for 300 words, 100 more if you share!. Best of luck, and don't get zombie-fied ;D

daily #27-28:
Legend of Korra fan fiction. Huan Beifong's perspective of: The battle of Zhaofu

“Luna, you’re never this reckless!” Korra’s voice sliced through the chaos, but Luna barely heard her. She was too busy ducking and weaving, her waterbending a blur as she deflected attack after attack. Kuvira’s soldiers just wouldn’t quit, and her energy was draining fast.
But even in the middle of this madness, her mind kept flickering back to Huan.

“You never answered me,” she’d said hours before, voice sharper than intended. She’d caught him off-guard, of course. Huan wasn’t built for confrontations, verbal or otherwise. He’d fumbled through some awkward response about “needing to think.” What did that even mean? She’d stormed off, equal parts frustrated and hurt, and now she was here, trying to pretend that conversation didn’t matter. Spoiler alert: it did.

Meanwhile, Huan was back at the hideout with Meelo and Ikki, pacing across the floor.
“Ugh, you'll drill a trent into the floor at this rait.” Meelo groaned. “Can’t you just sit down and, I dunno, paint with us or something?”
But Huan couldn’t. The updates crackling through the radio weren’t helping, either. The fight was escalating, and his stomach churned with every report.
And then he heard it. “Luna’s surrounded—she can’t hold them off much longer—”
Huan didn’t think. He bolted, ikki shouted, “Wait! You don’t even have, like, gear!” Ikki facepalmed.
By the time Huan got there, his heart was pounding. Luna was fighting like she always did—fierce and unstoppable—but even she couldn’t block every angle. One soldier lunged, too fast for her to react. Huan froze, then did the only thing his brain could manage.
He grabbed the scattered metal around him, hands trembling, and twisted it into something—anything. The result was messy, jagged, and absolutely ridiculous. It looked more like a warped art sculpture than a weapon, but somehow, it blocked the blow just long enough for Luna to spin around and counterattack.
She stared at him, wide-eyed. “What are you doing here?!”
Huan opened his mouth, then closed it. “I—uh—I don’t know.”
Luna didn’t have time to yell at him. She grabbed his arm and shoved him behind her shield of ice, her own attacks surging forward in a final, desperate push.

After the battle, when the dust settled and everyone regrouped, Luna found him again. “Huan,” she started, softer this time. “You still didn’t answer me.”
He met her gaze, his usual awkwardness gone. “I think that sculpture said it all, it represents my feelings for you.” he said smirking, himself again.
She rolled her eyes, but her smile betrayed her.
And just like that, the tension melted.

-Word War-
(with @goldenglorymindz)
Word Count: 641
Status: ???
Notes: please keep in mind that this was basically a rant. Also, I don't edit word wars, so please ignore all of those spelling and grammatical errors. Thank you!! And also- sorry for the very fast ending and spiraling plot line… my brain is kinda everywhere right now…

I’m currently in Mammoth Mountain, CA and I’ve been skiing all week (well for three days, this is the 3rd day). We just got back about 2 hours ago from our last day of skiing. I love skiing! I’ve probably been skiing since I was about 6? I think that’s it. Anyways, it’s a core part of my life. We usually go to Mammoth for a week (ish) and ski 2-3 days during that time. We stay at my grandpa’s house, so it’s nice to have a free place to stay! And it’s really fun. I love skiing, although sometimes it’s kind of scary. I tend to get nervous when I either can’t see where I’m going or if I’m on a really narrow cat track (which I was on today). Oh my goodness, I was skiing on a pretty narrow strip of land (don’t worry, it wasn’t dangerous or anything, I was just being scared) and I got so nervous I fell. And then (don’t laugh) I couldn’t get up because my skis were crossed *sob*. Anyways, I had to take off one of my skis. And THEN i was worried about accidentally losing a ski down a hill, because there was a kind of steep drop off on one side of the mountain. Long story short, everything was okay! And I was rewarded for my bravery (flexes muscles) by getting a delicious lunch at the Outpost, a spot on the back side of the mountain that I went to for lunch. Although ou have to eat outside, it’s worth it because you get to eat a delicious grilled cheese sandwich and some soup as well- YUM! Anyways, today was a pretty great day. I also finally got over my fear of the little jumps in a small terrain park off of the Discovery Chair (that’s the chair that people who are learning to ski go on). I actually skied on top of one of the boxes (and it was great!), although I didn’t go too fast. And I’m pretty much over my fear of getting some air (a very little amount) when going over the jumps. This year was awesome because my little sister also was excited to go on the terrain park, so I had a buddy to ski with! And I also worked on turning so that I can get down the mountain without making a wedge (also known as a pizza, also known as a snowplow). Skiing is also awesome because both my parents grew up doing it. They’ve been skiing at Mammoth Mountain since before I was born, so I always feel comfortable while skiing with them. I swear, they know the mountain like the back of their hands. Wait- quick question here, how well do you know the back of your hand???? Whatever…. Anyways, I also finally learning how to ski across the mountain and getting more comfortable skiing with my little sister to newer places. Sometimes I even ski down to The Mill (a kind of mini lodge, I guess? I don’t know how to explain it) by myself! And that’s good, because obviously my parents sometimes want to go ski on harder runs, and I still have no want to go on a black diamond. Speaking of black diamonds, I actually have skiied one before but it was Patrolmen’s, which is pretty short and not super steep. Anyways, I don’t really like steep runs, but honestly they don’t bother me as much as they did 2 years ago or even last year. Another highlight of this year’s ski trip was that my Uncle Robert skied with us again. Uncle Robert is great at skiing and he’s always giving me tips on how to improve. And- he’s really fun to be around, and one of my favorite uncles!!! He’s come over for dinner

JWC FanFic with Toko, Nini, Vicky, and Mouse (and me ofc)

The Bookstore
by: Gracie ✨

Gracie walks into a large bookstore, her heart beating excitedly in her chest. With a sigh of happiness, she sees the rows upon rows of books. Lined up neatly on each shelf.

As she continues in she sees someone standing in the Mystery and Paranormal section flipping through books. The person had dirty blonde hair cut short, and headphones over their ears. Gracie starts to walk over, she had been wanting to get a mystery book recently but she didn’t know what was good.

“Hey there…” Gracie says standing next them, speaking softly so that she didn’t scare them.

They pull one headphone off of their ear and turn to her. “Oh, hey! What’s up?”

Gracie grins at them, “well, I see you reading in this section and I was wondering if you have any recommendations for this section? Oh, and i’m Gracie by the way.” She looks at the shelves of books, the dark and spooky looking covers, feeling unsure about what she was getting herself into.

“I’m Mouse, nice to meet you!! Oh my gosh, that is a hard question to answer… I could recommend hundreds but I guess i’ll… give you this one!” They hand Gracie a book with a ghost on the front and what looks like a haunted graveyard. Gracie shivers, it definitely looked like a scary story.

Mouse mumbles to themself and then grins wide at Gracie, they run off into the stacks of book. After a second of standing confused Gracie sees Mouse run back.

“Here! You should read this too!” Gracie looks at the book in her hands, it reads Six of Crows. It looks pretty good from the cover.

As the two stand there a talk for a minute a girl walks around the corner and sees them talking, she has long brown wavy hair and brown eyes. As she passes them she looks at their books and then stops and starts talking. “Hey thereeee, I’m Nini, nice to meet you! That looks good…” The three of them start talking about the books in Gracie's hands.

The group exchanges phone numbers and then Gracie leaves to go check out and go home. She walks up to the register and see a girl with dark purple hair and brown eyes, she is wearing a hijabi that is teal which compliments her hair nicely. She has one earbud in and is nodding her head to the beat of her music.

Gracie places her books on the counter (she also got a few others that Nini had recommended.) The girl behind the counter looks up and pauses her music, “hey, are you ready to check out?”

“Yes I am,” Gracie says and reads her name tag, Vicky.

“Great,” Vicky starts up a small conversation with her about the books while she scans them. As she tries to continue with the purchase something happens on her screen and she groans. “Sorry, I’m new here and I think somethings wrong, give me a second and I’ll call my boss.”

Vicky notifies someone that she needs help over the intercom and a store manager comes out to help her. The managers name tag reads Toko and their hair is blond and wavy with purple tips. They walk up and tap a few things on the register. “Don’t worry Vicky,” they say softly, shooting the young worker a smile.

The two get the register to work again and Gracie gets checked out, “thank you!” She says to the workers and then heads back to the front of the store to leave. She waves to Mouse and Nini as she leaves, they both have at least five books stacked in their arms.

As she gets back into the car she smiles to herself, new books, new friends, and new memories. Not to shabby for just a book store trip.

The End.

Total: 629 words!! (Dang… only needed to be 200 lolll)

-Writing Dare-
From @Strawberry-Lemon
Dare: Write a story where the narrator is in a strange, unknown place and has no idea how they got there.
Word Count: 1,446 words
Notes: CLIFFHANGER BWAHAHAH

Ugh. My head feels fuzzy and fluffy. As I rub my groggy eyes, I slowly come to my senses. What is now? When is time? Confusing questions like these run through my befuddled mind. My mouth tastes like sandpaper, and as I look around, I realize that I don’t recognize the place I’m in. I’m having trouble getting my limbs to move, and it takes me about three tries to prop myself up on my elbows. I feel cold seeping through my sleeves as I look around. How strange. As I gauge my surroundings, I also realize I have no recollection of any of the events of the past few days. The last thing I remember is sitting at a table… or was I standing on my bed? Lying down on the ground? The fog in my brain overcomes me and all goes dark.

When I awaken again, I look around… again. It seems that I’m in a completely new place, although my senses seem to be recovering from whatever messed with my memory. Now I can recollect exactly where I was before I got here. When that was, I don’t know, and whether other things happened between then and now, I also have no idea. The only thing that I do know is that I was hanging out in a coffee shop with my friends after school. We had plans to study for the upcoming test together, and my group loves studying in fun places. Wait- my friends! How long have I been missing? They must be frantic! And my parents too! I need to get out of here. For now, though, while my muscles are still getting used to moving again, I guess I need to look around and figure out where I am- AGAIN. In stark contrast to my original location, I am now in a forest. Various shades of green surround me and it seems that I’m laying atop a large, mossy boulder, which is quite comfortable, actually. I cautiously flex my fingers, testing to see if I should risk trying my muscles. All moves well, so I sit up. It’s hard, but I make it, and I slowly slide off the boulder. Upon contact with the ground, however, my legs seem unable to hold my weight, and my knees buckle. Looks like I’m back to sitting on the ground.

From my new vantage point, I can see that I’m in the middle of a clearing. The clearing is surrounded by spiky pine trees. If I strain my ears, I can hear a stream trickling somewhere behind them. And closer to me, bees are busily pollinating the numerous wildflowers scattered throughout the field. As I silently watch, a doe and her baby gracefully walk out of the woods and start munching on the grass. Entranced, I watch for a while and then remember my mission. I guess I should try to stand up again, no matter how tough it may be. My shaky arms hold me up as I gingerly put weight on both my feet. I decide to venture around the field, but the moment I let go of the boulder, I fall once again, making a sound as I hit the ground. The doe and her baby look up, frightened, and then retreat into the trees at the sight of me. Oh well. I stand up yet again, and this time my body holds my weight. Good. I need to find a way out of here.

I look around the field, and as I do, I notice a small brown path leading into the trees. Seeing as I have basically no other options, I decide to follow the path. The path takes me down and as it does, I see the river that I heard earlier. The path is quite easy to follow, and I find myself lost in thought as I attempt to piece together what happened to me. Somebody must have put something in my drink at the coffee shop that day- or something MUST have happened. There is no other explanation about the confusion, the missing motor skills, and the dry mouth I experienced when I first woke up. Speaking of a dry mouth, I realize that I’m parched and decide to go and take a drink from the river. Cautiously, of course, because I’m honestly not sure whether the river is safe to drink from. However, if I don’t get water soon, I’ll probably pass out and THEN where would I be? So I decide to quench my thirst. The moment my thirst is quenched, a hunger awakens in my stomach and I realize that I have no idea how long it’s been since I’ve eaten. Oh well, though, I’ve already taken a chance drinking that river water. I can’t take another one by eating strange forest plants.

Curse that! I should’ve listened when my father told me about the different plants you can eat in the wild. It’s too late now, though. I decide to keep following the path, and continue to do so for what feels like hours. Of course, I also forgot to wear my watch to school today. Or was it yesterday now? Who knows? Anyways, I forgot to wear my watch, which means that I also have literally no way of knowing how much time has passed… So many mistakes.

Continuing to follow the path, I soon stumble upon a small house, a cottage, if you will. A skinny tendril of smoke emerges from its chimney, and I decide to venture inside and see whether the person inside could offer me directions or an explanation. And probably some food, as well. My stomach growls.

I walk up the porch and knock on the door. No answer. I knock again, louder, and call out, “Hello? Is anyone home?” Still no answer. I decide to try the door, and strangely enough , it’s unlocked. I tiptoe inside, and I can’t shake the feeling that I’m trespassing. Which I guess I am. But what can I say? I’m hungry and somebody left their door unlocked. Not so smart, if you ask me. I look around the house, opening cupboards and cabinets. No food. This is really weird, kind of like that one fever dream I had…

Alright, back out of the house I go. I guess I should just follow the path, and that’s what I do for the next 10 minutes or so, when I come across a -for lack of a better word- portal inside a tree. It’s shimmery and looks almost like sparkly water. And as I’ve said about five times now, I have nothing else to do, nowhere to go, and I have no idea where I am, so I might as well try it. I step towards it, and as I do, it feels like it’s almost pulling me closer, beckoning to me, whispering to me.
I step through the portal, into who knows what, and for the second time today I’m enveloped by blackness.

I’m cold, so cold. Shivering. And I’m on… a table? I look around me and realize that I’m inside now. Machines are connected to me, beeping and beeping and beeping. A knock sounds at the door, and the door is pushed open as a young woman in doctor’s scrubs comes in.

“It looks like someone’s feeling better!” She exclaims when she sees that I’m awake.

“We’re so glad that you volunteered for that virtual reality trial!”

Virtual reality- WHAT? I don’t remember signing up for that… But now that I think of it, actually I do. I remember signing up for some sort of medical virtual reality trial, but vaguely.

“What did you think?” The doctor asks. “I’m sure that this has been jarring for you. That was one of the possible side effects, Megan.”

I cough and attempt to speak. Although my voice sounds scratchy, I’m able to get the words out. “Megan? Megan’s not my name!” I may have forgotten a lot, but I do remember my name. “I’m Katie!”

“No, no honey, you must be confused.” the doctor says. “See, it says right here ‘Megan Brownington’”

“No, I’m sure of it. I’m Katie? Well, actually, I’m Katherine. Katherine Berkable?”

The doctor looks at me with some concern in her eyes. “I’m going to go get the head doctor, okay? See you in a few!” She backs away towards the door, cautiously, like I’m some sort of rabid animal.
“Wait!” I call out, but it’s too late. She’s already left. But if I’m Megan Brownington, then why do I not remember that being my name? And who in the world is Katherine Berkable?

-Weekly 4-
Part 1 (Title/cover): The Treetop Times, Cover
Part 2 (Feature Article) (546/500 words):
Fairy Tale Fashion: The Latest Clothing Trends from the Inner Kingdom
Do you wonder what the princes and princesses from the inner kingdom wear in their day to day lives? Are you always behind fashion trends? Good people of Treeville, they call me Cinna and I am the head designer of the prince and princess wardrobes each and every year. I have some certain insider knowledge about the current fashion trends in the Inner Kingdom that I’d love to share with you. In this article, I’ll get into the clothing choices each of the royals has made for the big ball coming up next month. Let’s get into this fashion knowledge so YOU can be the fashionable one in the neighbourhood.

Let’s start with Princess Rapunzel. This year, she’s embracing the classic purple dress look, but with a twist. Instead of a long, laced dress, the princess will be wearing a mid-length, flowy skirt with lots of twirl capacity. She’ll mainly be sporting lavender and violet, but she’ll be wearing a unique flower crown as well, alluding to her original outfit from years and years ago.

Next up is Princess Cinderella. She’s worn almost the same thing each year, so this year she decided that she was ready for a change. Instead of the classic light blue ballroom skirt with lots of ruffles, Cinderella will be wearing a navy blue pantsuit paired with a cream shirt. To add a bit of flair, the pantsuit will be trimmed with a few ruffles. This classy look is to celebrate her newfound business venture, Cindy’s Shoes. However, it’ll only work if she stops losing her shoes.

As for Princess Snow White, she’ll be styling her long hair in a red bow, and she’ll be wearing a dress to match. The dress will be fitted on top, with long sleeves and a close bodice. At the bottom, the dress will flair out and will be supported by a layer of petticoats. The dress will be red with pink trim to commemorate the upcoming holiday of Valentine’s Day.

On to the princes. I’m sure you’ve noticed that we have skipped Sleeping Beauty. She would like to keep her gala costume a secret so that all will be surprised when she steps into the room.

Back to the princes. Each pair will be wearing an outfit that compliments their partner’s outfit. Rapunzel’s Flynn Rider will be wearing a dark purple suit paired with an off-white shirt. Cinderella’s Prince Charming will be wearing a cream suit with a navy shirt to set off Cinderella’s similar outfit. And Snow White will be attending the ball alone this year, due to her prince’s terrible flu.

That’s all for the latest fashion trends, folks! But remember to keep checking in with The Treetop Times to learn more about the best clothing choices for the upcoming season. Don’t forget to check out my favorite magazine, as well, The Fashion Forester, the best place to spot those new trends. Subscribe to both The Treetop Times and The Fashion Forester to get the latest news around the block about fashion, news, and more.

Top of the morning to you all, and goodbye! I’ll see you all next time as I discuss the new fashion trends from the inner kingdom.

Part 3 (513/500 words):
Looking for the best desserts around? Come visit Little Red’s Forest Bakery, and treat yourself with delicious desserts, sandwiches, drinks, and pastries. With heirloom family recipes, Little Red’s Forest Bakery is sure to have the best food you’ve ever tasted! The recipes came straight from grandmother’s house, and Little Red is ecstatic to share these delicious recipes with the people of Treeville. Items on the menu include willow bark tea, freshly brewed coffee, hot chocolate (with extra whipped cream!), croissants, brownies, and an assortment of delicious cookies, as well as much, much more! Little Red’s Forest Bakery is a family-owned business, and y6it has been for over a hundred years. Not only will you get delicious food, but you’ll also be able to catch a glimpse of the historic interior of the cafe. Little Red’s Forest Bakery is also a great place for students to work. There are plenty of cozy, quiet spots perfect for studying in. Additionally, Little Red’s Forest Bakery features a small boutique with goods from local sellers. For a limited time only, Little Red’s Forest Bakery is featuring snowflake cakes, a seasonal dessert you can’t find anywhere else. These cakes are well-known around Treeville for their light, airy texture. Snowflake cakes are great for family gatherings this month. Get them while they last! Looking for a delicious meal, a yummy snack, a good study spot, or handmade artisan goods? Come visit Little Red’s Forest Bakery in Tree 305 on Willow Avenue. You won’t regret trying the freshly baked goods on sale!

Looking for a good carpenter? Come visit Pinocchio’s Woodworking Shop, where we treat all customers like family. Pinocchio is an expert in woodworking, taught by his foster father from a young age. Pinocchio’s Woodworking Shop is perfect for any of your carpentry needs, whether they be for a table, chairs, a couch, repairs, or even bowls and utensils! “Pinocchio and his employees are so friendly and have lots of expertise!” Humpty Dumpty says. “We love going to Pinocchio’s because he just has a way with wood!” the Bear family says. Pinocchio’s expertise isn’t only in building, it’s also in whittling. Looking for a way to add some personalized touch to your furniture? Ask Pinocchio to engrave your furniture with a beautiful design! With a wide range of options, you can choose whatever you like, adding a unique touch to your home. Building a home, or looking to buy one? Pinocchio also sells unique doors that will inspire your guests with awe. These doors come in amazing colors and you even have the option to engrave it with your monogram or a special design. Not only that, Pinocchio’s Woodworking Shop also hosts field trips for the local schools. If you’re interested in taking your family on a cool field trip, come to Pinocchio’s Woodworking Shop. Pinocchio’s Woodworking Shop is a great place to go if you’re looking for an experience with friendly workers, beautiful furniture, and unique ways for you to personalize your home. Stop by Pinocchio’s Woodworking Shop at Tree 13 on Elm Street. You won’t regret visiting!

Part 4 (Advice Column) (387/350 words):
Q: How do you recommend shopping for treehouses? From, Terrible Treehouse Shopper
A: Hi Terrible! I recommend finding a treehouse in a good neighbourhood first. Then, check off your list of things you want (for example, if you want a specific type of tree for your house). Good luck on finding a house!

Q: I’ve recently fallen off of a wall. What should I do to get rid of my cracks? From, Totally Not Humpty Dumpty.
A: Hmmm… Have you tried contacting all the king’s horses and all the king’s men? They might help to put you together again!

Q: What types of stories do you recommend reading to young cubs before bed? Sincerely, Disgruntled Mother
A: Make sure not to read any bloody true crime stories to them before bed (think Little Red Riding Hood, The Three Little Pigs, etc.). Instead, you might want to read some fictional stories like those books about kids who drive around in “cars” (whatever those are). You should find that your cubs have good dreams after that.

Q: Where do you find the best recipes for the winter? Love, Stumped for Recipes
A: I like looking for seasonal ingredients on the forest floor and then cooking them all into a hearty stew. It is very filling and delicious! Be careful not to pick up any poisonous mushrooms, though.

Q: Have you seen my shoe? From, Shoeless Cinderella
A: Cinderella? Again? Come on, girl, you need to keep track of your shoes! Was it your boyfriend again? He seems to steal your shoes a lot…

Q: This old lady keeps coming to my house offering to sell me apples. I'm kind of scared of her. What should I do? Sincerely, Nervous about Apples
A: Sounds harmless, Nervous! Feel free to buy an apple from her- it's not like it would be poisoned or anything! Enjoy your delicious apple

Q: I feel tired ALL. THE. TIME. What should I do to get better sleep? From, Sleepless Beauty
A: Well, Sleepless, you can always try drinking tea or reading a relaxing book before bed. And if that doesn't work, I hear that there's a fairy down the street who would be happy to sell you a sleeping draught. There's no harm in turning to magic to help you fall asleep at night!

-Word War-
with @BrilliantStar114
Status: ???
Word Count: 354
Notes: once again, please excuse the spelling and grammar errors. I don't edit my word wars! And I'd just like to say, thank you to all the hosts, leaders, (co)leaders, and even the campers who made this month so special!!!

Oh my goodness, I can’t believe that it’s the last day of JWC! It’s honestly really sad. I wish that I could have like a 2 month camp, but I guess that that would be a long time. I’m pretty lucky though, because just today I got my word goal, something that I didn’t end up doing in the last writing camp that I was in (SWC Nov 2024). But this session was the first time that I was competing, because for SWC I was in The Cabin That Will Not Win (TCTWNW). It was super fun and all, but competing against the other cabins is really an awesome experience and it incentivised me to write way more. YAY! I’m also really proud of my participation in this camp. Last session, I ended up kind of going MIA for the last part of camp. This year, though, I only went MIA for about a week and then hopped back on with a vengeance. Sadly though, the week I was gone I missed the second cabin wars. Speaking of Cabin Wars, this session of writing camp was also the first time I participated in a cabin war. And it was the first time that cabin wars held real conseuquence for my cabin, as we were the cabin that will not win, which means that we were non-competitive. We still got warred, but if we didn’t clear a war it didn’t matter. I really like JWC! It’s a bit different from SWC, which I like, and I also really like the fact that there were writing dares, which were AWESOME! Writing dares were probably the thing that got me out of my comfort zone, because once I got a dare, I wouldn’t give up on it. And thanks to the people who dared me, I think that I’ve become a better and more creative writer and person in general. It definitely helped me when I had writers block, AND i brought in quite a few points for my cabin when doing that. It was quite, quite fun and I’m so happy that I decided to participate.

heart of stone - 2462 words

What does it mean…
I kneel, placing my still-beating heart into iron hands.
…to sell your soul?

All my life, I have wanted to be an artist. When my friends were gathered outside playing Sticks and Stones in the dust, I was scratching away at a scrap of precious paper with a fragment of more precious charcoal. When my peers began working in the fields, turning warm earth over seeds and saplings, I was mixing and pounding and boiling in the kitchen, trying to make paint from plants.

Only a few could pull me away from a creative frenzy. One, my mother, who didn’t always appreciate her pots and pans smeared with strange and possibly poisonous streaks of wild color left behind from my experiments. She never tried to stifle my impulses, but she also never spared any words telling me exactly what she thought of the messes I left behind.

And two, my best friend since forever, Callie. She never tried to discourage me, either. At least, not with words - instead, she’d grab my hand and pull me outside, reminding me that there was a world outside my art, a world outside my life. A world that could be part of my life, if I so chose. A world full of light and laughter instead of stale air and dead colors.

Someday, I vowed, I would make the colors on my canvas live just as brightly as the ones off of it. Then I’d never have to look further than my paint pots for everything I needed. At least, that's what I thought when I had my brush in hand. When I was outside, things were a little different. I remembered that I liked others. I remembered that the sky was bluer than my richest dyes. I remembered how Callie’s smile looked under sunshine.
My mother just wanted me to stop wrecking her kitchen, but Callie wanted me to step away from my art altogether. I’d never told anyone what I intended to do, but somehow she knew. Callie always knew, and she was afraid. She wanted me to stop before I did what I’d planned to do for years.
She wasn’t going to stop me. I cared about Callie, but her fears were foolish. I was going to do the greatest thing in years. They’d sing my name for a millenia.
I was going to make a sacrifice. The biggest sacrifice anyone could ever make.

It was traditional to offer something to the deities when you came of age, asking for a wish granted in return. Many asked for peace, or prosperity, or the love of one who’d caught their eye.
I wasn’t going to wish for anything so common.
Some asked for other things: health for a family member, a wealthy suitor, fame.
No one in my family was ill, I had no desire to wed a lord’s daughter, and as for fame…why settle for mere fame when you could be a legend?
The greater the sacrifice, the more you received. Many gave a family heirloom they cherished, or long-hoarded savings, or the promise that they would dedicate this or that to their chosen deity. Some would offer the best of their labors: the most perfect apple they’d ever picked, the most beautiful dress they’d ever sewn.
I climbed the stone steps slowly as the priests chanted the words of the ceremony in an ancient language, blessing the youth and, I suspected, praying to the deities that no one would make too foolish of a wish.
I wondered what they would think of mine.

Callie was right behind me, clothed in pure white. All of the coming-of-age were; it was tradition, symbolizing their purity, celebrating their last day of childhood. My collar itched on my neck, but I didn’t dare scratch it and ruin the sacred moment. As we passed the candles lining the steps, they flickered, fragrant smoke spiraling away from the billowing skirts and tunics.
There were five of us today, five of the village’s young who would advance beyond our first eighteen years and take our place as adults. I didn’t know the boy who stood to my left after we mounted the final stairs, but Callie was to my right, her hair in a simple braid hanging down her back. Loose wisps of hair had escaped, framing her face, which was flushed with excitement. I hoped I looked as nice as she did.

In front of us were seven figures, representing the deities: one made of stone, one of iron, one of a shrub that had been carefully clipped into shape, one of silver, one of gold, one of clay, and one of glass. No two were the same, but each of them had outstretched hands, cupped to receive offerings.
Callie went first, kneeling and placing her sacrifice - the most beautiful rose I’d ever seen - into the hands of the shrub. Like the rest of her family, Callie was a gardener, and her favorite flowers were roses. Still, I couldn’t help but think that surely there was something she valued more highly, something that would gain her more favor with the deities. The rose, though lovely, would fade quickly, becoming nothing more than scarlet dust.
“I offer the most perfect flower of my labors to the deities, and in return I wish that my beloved may always love me, as long as we both live,” she says, bowing her head.
The priests waited for a moment before signaling that she could stand, and she rejoined the line, cheeks flushed with excitement. “Do you think they’ll like it?” she whispered to me.
I didn’t have time to respond, because it was my turn. Swallowing, I knelt in front of iron hands, heart pounding in my throat.

“I offer my heart, my life-blood to the deities…”
Pain shot through my chest, and I gasped, red light coalescing above my palms to form a throbbing mass, which I placed on the figure’s cold hands. If the deities didn’t accept my offering and sustain me with their blessing, I would die in moments.
“…in return, I wish-”
I had to stop for a second, wheezing through the agony.
“-to become the greatest artist the world has ever known.”

Silence fell, thicker than honey, dripping down the sides of reality. In that heartbeat, it felt as though the world had stopped, and turned, and looked, eyes wide with wonder and fear.
I lay panting on the stone, struggling for life, for breath.
The place where my heart had been throbbed once. And then the pain was gone, and I could stand.
A breeze whispered around my feet, and for a moment I thought I heard a voice within.
A daring boy, to be sure…and a foolish one. Laughter.

Then everything exploded back into color and life and sound, the crowd shouting and stamping, candles sputtering on the ground as the priests panicked.
They would have a hard time salvaging this ritual, although it wasn’t the first time someone had made a disruptive wish. The coming-of-age who hadn’t gone yet glared at me, knowing their turn would have to wait.
I didn’t care.
Finally, my greatest desire was within reach.
I gave no thought to what I had given up.

Somehow, the ritual pulled itself together and finished, and life went on as it always had. Some wishes had immediate effect. Others hadn’t yet surfaced. Mine was somewhere in between: I knew I was getting better, but I wasn’t the best. Not yet.
Callie was waiting for me when I stepped outside, as she had been for the past few weeks. I wanted to ask why she was always so conveniently next to my house whenever I appeared, but I didn’t. Why shouldn’t she be? We lived close together, she was my closest companion, and there was no reason she shouldn’t want to be with me.
Something about it still rubbed me the wrong way. Maybe it was her expression when I’d finally resurface from painting. Maybe it was the way I could see her from the window, shaking her head if I wasn’t out of the house at the usual time. She insisted that I take breaks every day, but even she couldn’t hold me to them all of the time.

Today she seemed to have something on her mind as we went on our customary walk around the village. She jittered in a way that was unlike the girl I knew, flushing and paling at irregular intervals. I began to wonder if she was ill.
“Do you love me?” Callie blurted.
I stopped walking and stared at her. A cart rumbled by behind us, and I imagined the driver snickering over what she’d said.
“What?”

She looked down, toying with a strand of hair. “I just…I do, but you never said anything, and you’ve never talked to any of the other girls but I don’t know because you never even looked at me like you…like you might. And I just wanted to know."
A year ago, I’d held my own heart in my hands. Now it seemed that I held Callie’s, and a mistake would cost me the companionship of a lifetime.
“Callie…” I hesitated. “You mean more to me than any of the others I know. And-”
I didn’t get a chance to finish, because Callie threw herself at me, squealing. “I knew it! I knew you’d say yes. We can have the wedding in spring…I’ve got to work on a dress if I’m going to get it done on time!”

She continued chattering while I stood in stunned silence. I hadn’t meant for it to go this way. I’d been going to say more.
But there wasn't a way now to get out of it without breaking her heart. So I smiled, nodded, and let her talk, while a certain empty place in my chest twinged.
Maybe once I could have given her my heart. But it wasn’t mine to give away anymore.

We clashed often. Callie wanted me to stop working so much on my art and find another job. No one wanted to buy an amateur's paintings, not in this village.
She couldn’t see how close I was to a breakthrough. She was blind to my progress. I showed her the line of canvases over and over, and all she could see were the hours I spent with them instead of her.
“You want me to abandon my wish?” I asked her once.
Her eyes flashed. “I just wanted you to give me a chance to live out mine! You were always…you were always the one I wanted.”
Tears filled her eyes and spilled over, and I held her while she cried, wondering what might have happened if either of us had made a different wish. Because the ones we’d made didn’t work together. But I didn’t know how to tell her that, how to tell her that we just weren’t compatible, not with the choices we’d both made. I knew it would only crush her. So I locked my lips instead. I locked the door to my studio. And I locked myself out of our life.

Somewhere, a forgotten heart beat in iron hands, patches of it turning cold and stony.

Eventually, I made a breakthrough in my art, and suddenly everyone was craving my canvases. Callie moped around the house, but I was too busy to pay attention. Every moment I could spare was spent dipping my brushes in my paint pots and splashing color across an empty white void.
In the past, I’d had frequent episodes of stabbing pains in the chest, but those hardly ever bothered me now. I didn’t miss my heart. I hardly ever thought about it. And I’d gladly make the same sacrifice again to gain the fame that was started to trail my works.

With every beat, it grows cooler, more rigid, as the essence that made it a heart escapes.

I was in the middle of a series focused on individual colors when Callie got sick. I didn’t notice until she started coughing so loudly I could hear it all throughout the house, and even then it took time to register it beyond merely an annoying sound.
“I’m not feeling well,” Callie told me, coming into my studio.
I squinted at my paint pots, trying to find the perfect shade of red. I’d just finished a painting done entirely in blue shades, and red was next on the list - but I couldn’t find any inspiration. None of the shades spoke to me like they usually did.
“I’m sorry, dear,” I said absentmindedly, wondering what would happen if I mixed scarlet and vermilion.

She coughed again and I looked up, realizing for the first time how gaunt her face looked. How tired. When she pulled her hand away from her mouth, I saw blood specks on her palm.
I stood up and dashed to her side just in time to catch her as she fell, coughing and coughing and coughing. Crimson leaked from her lips.
“I don’t think I’m going to get better,” she whispered, her hands searching for mine.
I didn’t reply, fascinated by the color dripping from her chin. It was beautiful, redder than red. Redder than the rose she had sacrificed on that long-ago day. Redder than my heart had been.
Her mouth moved again, and I bent closer to hear.
“I just need to know one thing. Then I can die happy,” Callie said. “Did you ever love me?”

Always the romantic, talking about death and love and happiness. She saw the world in colors, even perched on the edge of life. I couldn’t see those colors anymore. Just gray.
I didn’t know how to respond. It had been so long since we’d talked. I didn’t know what would reassure her enough to let her die with a smile on her face, and what would send her to the grave weeping.
She gripped my hand tighter, gasping for breath.
“Did you…ever…love me?”
Her blood would look so lovely as paint, I thought.
Her forehead creased, but her breath stuttered and stopped before she could say anything else.
I gently laid her body on the floor, rubbing sticky, crimson fingers together as I stood. On an impulse, I swiped my hand across the blank canvas that had been taunting me for days, and the next painting came together with a click.

And with the last breath of love, the heart became lifeless stone.

I was the greatest artist the world had ever seen.
I did not need love to make a name.
I did not need a heart to survive.

Somewhere, two hearts have stopped beating.
What does it mean to sell your soul?