autumn

Captured Tales

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by Bill Tiepelman

Little Keeper of Autumn Magic

In a quiet corner of the enchanted forest, under the dappled, golden light of autumn, sat the "Little Keeper of Autumn Magic," a pint-sized elf with a big attitude. She may look sweet, with her wide eyes and innocent expression, but don't let the adorable hat fool you—she's got a bit of a bite. This autumn, her job was to watch over the pumpkin patch and make sure none of the forest creatures got too enthusiastic about their seasonal snacking. Every year, the deer, squirrels, and the occasional overzealous hedgehog would tear through her precious pumpkins like kids at a candy shop. The Patch Patrol So there she sat, on her little tree stump throne, swinging her boots in the crisp autumn air. Her hat was as big as her attitude, brim overflowing with autumn leaves, berries, and what she would tell you were "the very essence of fall." (She had a flair for drama.) She even fashioned herself a little stick she called the "Rod of Righteous Reprimands," which she waved at every passing critter with suspicious eyes. “Oi! You there! Yes, you, fat-bottomed squirrel—step AWAY from the squash!” she shouted one afternoon, brandishing her stick. The squirrel paused, mid-pounce, looking from her to the pumpkin with a mix of guilt and confusion. “Don’t give me that look,” she said, arms crossed. “Just because you’re fluffy doesn’t mean you’re sly. I’ve got my eye on you.” She pointed to a small pile of acorns she’d left out as a peace offering. “Now, you can have those, but touch my pumpkins, and you’ll answer to me. And trust me, that’s not a walk in the woods you want to take.” A Visitor in the Night One chilly evening, just as the sun was setting, a particularly large raccoon came sniffing around the patch. He was the size of a small bear, his eyes glinting with the unmistakable gluttony of someone who thought he’d stumbled upon an all-you-can-eat buffet. “Oy!” she yelled, hopping off her stump and stomping over, stick in hand. “Where do you think you’re going, pal?” The raccoon froze, his tiny paws clutching a miniature pumpkin. They locked eyes for a moment, and the raccoon did what any guilty forest creature would do—he doubled down. With a haughty chitter, he crammed the pumpkin into his mouth and stared her down, unblinking. The elf narrowed her eyes, one hand on her hip. “Alright, big guy, you wanna dance?” She pointed her stick at him dramatically. “Because I am in no mood to lose another pumpkin to a creature with hygiene standards so low it thinks a garbage can is a five-star dining experience.” The raccoon, however, was undeterred. He gave her a slow blink, finished chewing his ill-gotten pumpkin prize, and sauntered off, tail flicking behind him in defiance. “Unbelievable,” she muttered. “The nerve of these woodland hooligans.” She stomped back to her stump, muttering about the “downfall of forest society” and the “moral corruption of raccoons.” A Fateful Encounter The next day, a handsome young fox sauntered into the clearing, sniffing the air. Now, the Little Keeper of Autumn Magic would tell you she was far too busy to be interested in romance, but she couldn’t help noticing his elegant tail and the debonair way he looked over the pumpkins. “Good evening, miss,” the fox said smoothly, with a little bow. “Might I sample one of your gourds?” She blushed, adjusting her hat. “Well… um, as long as it’s just one. And… you know, you’re respectful about it.” The fox winked. “Respect is my middle name.” He picked out a particularly plump pumpkin, and she watched him nibble it with uncharacteristic bashfulness. Then, out of the corner of her eye, she noticed a sneaky squirrel making off with a gourd while she was distracted. “Oi! Get back here!” she shrieked, abandoning her conversation with the fox to chase down the wayward thief. The fox just chuckled, finishing his pumpkin in peace. “Quite the little keeper of autumn magic, indeed,” he murmured, watching her dart after the squirrel with her stick held high. And the Magic of Fall Rolls On As the leaves continued to turn, the elf maintained her vigilant post, armed with her oversized hat, her fierce spirit, and her trusty "Rod of Righteous Reprimands." While the forest creatures occasionally got the better of her, she always managed to restore order to her pumpkin patch—more or less. It was her own chaotic little kingdom, and she wouldn’t have it any other way. After all, there’s magic in the mayhem, and if autumn wasn’t a little wild, it just wouldn’t be autumn at all. And somewhere in the background, a certain fox watched her antics with an amused twinkle in his eye, patiently waiting for his next chance to charm the Little Keeper of Autumn Magic. Bring the Little Keeper of Autumn Magic Into Your Home If the charm of our “Little Keeper of Autumn Magic” has enchanted you, bring a touch of her cozy woodland world into your own space! Whether you're looking to decorate for fall or simply love whimsical art, these beautiful items make it easy to keep the spirit of autumn close year-round. Wood Print: Add rustic charm to any wall with this artwork printed on durable wood, perfect for giving your space that cozy, magical vibe. Tapestry: Make a statement with this enchanting tapestry, ideal for transforming any room into a woodland wonderland. Tote Bag: Take a little autumn magic with you wherever you go. This tote bag is both practical and charming, a perfect blend of art and functionality. Throw Pillow: Cozy up with the Little Keeper herself. This throw pillow is a delightful way to add a touch of whimsy to your couch or favorite chair. Whether you're decorating for the season or looking for the perfect gift for a friend who loves a bit of fantasy, these pieces capture the essence of autumn magic. Embrace the cozy vibes and invite a little bit of woodland wonder into your life!

by Bill Tiepelman

The Harvest Watcher

The Harvest Watcher’s Halloween Havoc It was Halloween night, the one night when The Harvest Watcher, a tiny elf with a sass level rivaled only by her height (about three inches, but don’t tell her that), had to keep a sharp eye on her pumpkin patch. She loved her job, really. Guarding pumpkins was her calling. But tonight, the forest felt different. The wind howled louder, the trees seemed darker, and somewhere in the distance, an owl hooted in a way that sounded suspiciously like laughter. This wasn’t just any Halloween—it was the full-moon kind, and every nutty ghoul and clueless mortal was about to waltz right into her patch. “Not on my watch,” she muttered, cracking her knuckles and adjusting her hat, which was festooned with berries, leaves, and enough autumn flair to put a Pinterest board to shame. She had barely settled onto her favorite stump when she heard a rustling in the bushes. Her heart sank. "Who goes there?” she called, her tiny voice echoing with a surprising authority. Out of the shadows slunk a group of costumed kids, about ten of them, carrying flashlights and candy bags already half-full. “Look, there she is! The forest elf!” one of them squealed, pointing right at her. Oh, for pumpkin’s sake. The Harvest Watcher sighed. She was hoping for at least another hour before the Halloween thrill-seekers showed up. But there was no stopping them once the stories got out. She glared at them, hands on her tiny hips. “What do you think you’re doing here? Don’t you have houses to egg or candy to steal?” she demanded, her voice dripping with annoyance. “We’re looking for the legendary forest treasures,” one particularly bold kid declared, flashing an annoyingly toothy grin. “We heard the elf would grant us a wish if we found her!” The Harvest Watcher snorted. “A wish? The only thing I’m going to grant you is a swift kick in the keister if you touch a single pumpkin.” But the kids only giggled, clearly unbothered by her threats. “Alright, last warning, kiddos,” she hissed, grabbing her trusty staff—a tiny twig but enchanted to pack a punch. They weren’t scared, so she figured it was time to give them a taste of her power. With a flourish, she waved her twig-staff, and the pumpkins began to glow with an eerie orange light. Their carved faces twisted and grinned, and the forest seemed to whisper, "Turn back…." Most of the kids screamed and took off, but one stubborn kid—the one who probably still believed in Santa at age fifteen—stood his ground, staring her down. “I’m not scared of you, tiny elf!” he taunted. “I’ll just take this pumpkin here and…” Before he could finish, the Harvest Watcher flicked her fingers, and the pumpkin he was reaching for came to life, sprouting vine-arms that wrapped around his legs. “HELP!” he yelped as he struggled to break free. The vines held firm, dragging him backwards as his friends yelled, “Leave it, Todd! She’s real! Run!” With a smirk, The Harvest Watcher released him, and he bolted after his friends, his dignity left somewhere between the forest entrance and the nearest pumpkin. Good riddance. She dusted off her hands. But the night wasn’t over yet. Far from it. Just as she was about to settle back down, she heard another rustling sound—this time from behind. “Please, let this be another raccoon in a witch hat,” she muttered, turning around. But what she saw made her jaw drop. Out of the trees sauntered three full-grown adults dressed as vampires. And not the classy, “I-hung-out-with-Dracula” type vampires. No, these were the bargain-bin, black-lipstick, ripped-fishnet-wearing kind. And judging by the bottles in their hands, they’d been celebrating since sundown. “Look, it’s the elf,” one of them slurred, leaning on his friend. “The one from the legends, right? If we catch her, we get a… a… prize or something?” The friend shrugged, mumbling something about how they “didn’t come all this way to get spooked by a forest pixie.” The Harvest Watcher groaned. “Alright, boys, turn around and head back to your party. I’m not here to entertain drunken vampires.” But they kept advancing, circling her pumpkin patch like wolves around a chicken coop. “Fine,” she said, cracking her knuckles again. “You want a Halloween scare? You’ve got it.” She chanted a few words in an ancient elfin tongue, and suddenly the pumpkins erupted into a roaring blaze of orange and green fire, illuminating the forest in an otherworldly light. The three men froze, their faces pale under the flickering glow. But that wasn’t enough for The Harvest Watcher. She flicked her wrist, and one of the pumpkins sprouted legs, hopping over to the lead vampire and letting out a tiny but menacing roar. “AHHH!” he shrieked, dropping his bottle and scrambling backwards. “And don’t come back!” she yelled after them as they stumbled and tripped their way out of the forest, half of them babbling apologies and the other half screaming about “demon pumpkins.” By now, the forest was quiet, and she was almost ready to call it a night. But Halloween had one last surprise for her. From the shadows, a cloaked figure emerged, small but dignified, with a pumpkin head carved with an elaborate, toothy grin. “Watcher,” he said in a low, gravelly voice. The Harvest Watcher narrowed her eyes. “Jack. You’re late.” Jack-o’-Lantern, the spirit of Halloween himself, shrugged. “Busy night, you know how it is. I just wanted to stop by and thank you for keeping things in order here.” “All in a night’s work, Jack. But you owe me. These mortals are getting more obnoxious every year.” Jack chuckled. “Fine. Next year, I’ll send you some reinforcements. Maybe a few werewolves to liven things up.” He gave her a wink, his carved face casting eerie shadows in the moonlight. And with that, he vanished into the mist, leaving The Harvest Watcher alone with her pumpkins and the lingering smell of cider and firelight. She gave one last look around her patch, satisfied that she’d held her ground. “Happy Halloween,” she whispered to her pumpkins. “Now rest up…there’s always next year.” As the night grew quiet, The Harvest Watcher finally leaned back, content that her pumpkins were safe for another Halloween. But for those who wished to bring a piece of her pumpkin-protecting magic home, she’d left behind a few enchanted treasures of her own. Celebrate the spirit of Halloween year-round with The Harvest Watcher collection, available in charming forms: Throw Pillow – Bring cozy, whimsical charm to your space with this delightful pillow featuring The Harvest Watcher herself. Puzzle – Embrace a magical challenge and piece together this enchanting autumn scene, one pumpkin at a time. Tote Bag – Carry a bit of Halloween magic wherever you go with this sturdy, stylish tote bag. Tapestry – Transform any room into an autumn forest with a tapestry that captures all the whimsy and wonder of The Harvest Watcher’s realm. Whether you're a lover of Halloween, a fan of fantasy, or simply want to enjoy a touch of fall magic, The Harvest Watcher collection is here to bring a little enchantment to your everyday life. Happy Halloween…and remember, keep an eye on your pumpkins!

by Bill Tiepelman

Crisp Leaves and Curious Eyes

There’s something special about the pumpkin patch at night. Sure, it's a wholesome place by day—filled with giggling kids, hayrides, and apple cider—but come dusk, it changes. Maybe it’s the shadows from the jack-o'-lanterns flickering just a bit too long, or the way the wind howls through the cornfields, whispering secrets like it’s in on a joke you don’t quite get. For Evie, it was more than just a patch. It was her escape. An escape from the grown-up nonsense of bills, laundry, and men who couldn’t text back within a 48-hour window. Tonight, though, she was here for one thing: answers. Her straw hat was tipped low over her face, a ridiculous scarecrow get-up she borrowed from the bottom of her attic’s Halloween bin. The patch wasn’t open to the public at this hour, but Evie wasn’t exactly the rule-following type. So, under the guise of “blending in,” she figured scarecrow attire would be just inconspicuous enough. Because who questions a girl holding a black kitten, after all? She didn't name it—cats weren’t her thing—but it showed up one day, eyes glowing like it was auditioning for a Tim Burton movie. The damn thing followed her everywhere now, like a fuzzy, judgmental shadow. "Alright, mystery pumpkin patch," she muttered to herself, kicking a random gourd with the tip of her boot, "what are you hiding?" Evie wasn’t entirely sure why she’d come back. Maybe it was the weird note she’d found stuffed in her grocery bag last week. “Your answers are in the patch. Come alone.” She'd chuckled when she first read it, thinking some loser from the dating app was trying to get creative with his pick-up lines. Or worse, some MLM hun trying to sell her organic pumpkin spice oils. But curiosity got the best of her, as it often did. As she crept deeper into the field, the pumpkins seemed bigger, more sinister. The moonlight danced on the orange skin of each one, giving them a strange, almost human expression. She caught herself staring a little too long at a particularly squat one that looked like it could pass as her high school gym teacher. "You judging me too, Coach Johnson? Yeah, well, screw you. Your crossfit circuit was a joke," she muttered under her breath, glaring at the gourd. The kitten meowed, as if in agreement. Or maybe protest. Who knew with cats? A Rumble in the Patch Suddenly, there was a rustling in the rows of corn nearby. Evie froze, her heart doing that weird skippy thing it always did when she felt like she was about to be caught doing something she shouldn’t. The kitten, on the other hand, seemed utterly unimpressed, licking its paw like the possibility of danger was an afterthought. "Who’s there?" she called, her voice wobbling only slightly. She might be a grown woman, but cornfields at night had a way of bringing out the nine-year-old in anyone. There was no answer, but she could feel eyes on her. And not just pumpkin eyes. Evie tightened her grip on the kitten, which, again, seemed more annoyed than protective. She spun around, her gaze darting from one oversized pumpkin to the next, half expecting one to stand up and start chasing her like a scene from a B-movie horror flick. Then, from behind a particularly large patch of sunflowers, a figure emerged. "Well, well, if it isn’t Little Miss Scarecrow. You really went all out, huh?" The voice was annoyingly familiar. It was Todd. Of course, it was Todd. The only guy she knew who’d break into a pumpkin patch for kicks and who, for some reason, believed showing up unannounced was 'quirky' and not just downright creepy. "Todd? Seriously? The note was from you? What the hell?" Todd smirked, stepping forward into the moonlight, revealing a mismatched pirate costume—complete with an eyepatch that seemed to be slipping off his head at an unfortunate angle. "Yeah, yeah, sorry about the theatrics. But I needed to get your attention. You haven’t been answering my texts." Evie rolled her eyes so hard she was sure they were going to pop out of her skull. "You can’t just lure me to a damn pumpkin patch with some cryptic-ass note, Todd. And your texts? What part of 'we broke up three months ago' didn’t get through to your tiny, pirate-infested brain?" "I thought it was romantic. You know, like an autumn mystery? You like mysteries." "I like mysteries involving crime, Todd, not my ex-boyfriend who can’t let go." The Real Mystery Just as Evie was about to tear into him further—because if Todd deserved anything, it was a proper verbal smackdown—a loud rumble shook the ground. The pumpkins trembled. Even Todd, with all his “I’m just a cool guy” bravado, took a step back. "Uh... did you feel that?" Evie asked, her anger momentarily replaced by actual concern. "Yeah," Todd nodded. "Was that...an earthquake?" "In Ohio? Really? That’s your answer?" Before either of them could come up with a better explanation, the ground started to shift again. This time, it wasn’t just a tremble. Something—something—was pushing its way up through the soil. Evie’s heart leapt into her throat as a giant pumpkin began to rise, roots snapping, dirt flying everywhere. "Okay, WHAT THE ACTUAL—" Todd blurted, eyes wide as dinner plates. The giant pumpkin cracked open, revealing...a man. A man? No, not just any man. He was dressed in a suit, covered in dirt, and holding a clipboard. "Excuse me," the man said, adjusting his tie like this was the most normal thing in the world, "I’m here to conduct the annual Pumpkin Patch Inspection. You two are trespassing." Evie stared, mouth agape, the kitten meowing in confused irritation. "You mean...this is about zoning regulations or something?" she asked, unable to process the absurdity of the moment. "Yes," the inspector said, flipping through his clipboard nonchalantly. "This patch is in violation of several autumnal codes. You’ll need to leave." Evie and Todd exchanged bewildered glances. This night had taken a turn that even Evie, in her wildest mysteries, couldn’t have imagined. "So, uh, no haunted pumpkin conspiracy then?" Evie asked. The inspector sighed. "No. Just poor agricultural planning." With that, the giant pumpkin closed back up, sinking into the ground as if nothing had happened. Evie stood there, utterly baffled, wondering what the hell she just witnessed. "Well," Todd finally muttered, "at least you got your answer." "Shut up, Todd." Bring the Magic of "Crisp Leaves and Curious Eyes" Home If you're as enchanted by the whimsical charm and autumn magic of Evie and her fluffy feline companion as we are, you'll love these unique products featuring the stunning artwork "Crisp Leaves and Curious Eyes" by Bill and Linda Tiepelman. Perfect for adding a touch of autumn to your home or to give as a quirky gift! Autumn Tapestry – Hang a piece of fall magic on your wall with this beautifully detailed tapestry. Wood Print – Bring rustic autumn vibes to your space with this textured wood print. Puzzle – Get cozy on chilly nights while piecing together this fun, detailed autumn puzzle. Tote Bag – Carry a bit of autumn wonder with you wherever you go with this charming tote. Explore the full collection and bring the playful spirit of fall into your world with these delightful pieces!

by Bill Tiepelman

Fall’s Fiery Duo: Phoenix and Dragon in Autumn Water

It was a perfect autumn day in the enchanted forest—the kind where the trees shed their golden leaves, squirrels planned their tiny revolutions, and somewhere, a centaur was probably wondering if he could pull off skinny jeans. In the middle of all this, a young phoenix named Blaze was making a ruckus, splashing around in the forest pond like it was his personal birdbath. Blaze wasn’t alone. His partner in crime, a baby dragon named Scorch, was right there with him. Scorch, despite having the scales of a dragon, was terrified of fire—ironic, considering he lived with a walking bonfire like Blaze. But today, it wasn’t fire he had to worry about. No, today was all about causing as much watery chaos as possible. “Last one to splash the biggest leaf has to clean the other’s nest for a month!” Blaze shouted, his fiery wings sending water droplets and a couple of startled frogs flying in all directions. Scorch puffed up his tiny chest. “I don’t even have a nest, you overgrown feather duster! And good luck beating me—I’m part water dragon!” he bragged, which was technically true. He had a cousin who swam once. The same cousin also peed in the pond, but no one talked about that. The Splash Showdown Blaze eyed the giant maple leaf floating nearby. His beak curled into a grin. “Prepare to be dethroned, lizard breath!” With a screech, Blaze flapped his wings with all his might, launching himself into the air. A blur of fiery feathers shot toward the leaf, his wings glowing against the autumn sky. The leaf, in all its golden glory, was about to be obliterated by the splash of the century. Except… Blaze didn’t account for the fact that wet feathers are slippery. Mid-flight, his wings gave out, and the phoenix plummeted. He hit the water with an epic belly-flop that sent ripples across the pond, a wave of water shooting up and drenching Scorch from snout to tail. Blaze emerged, sputtering, his feathers plastered to his body like a soggy chicken. “Nice one, Blaze! Maybe next time aim for the water instead of trying to fly through it!” Scorch roared with laughter, his wings flapping in delight. Blaze shot him a glare, but with his drenched appearance, it wasn’t exactly intimidating. Scorch's Big Moment Feeling cocky, Scorch decided to show Blaze how it’s done. He flapped his wings and paddled toward the floating maple leaf. “Watch and learn, Blaze. This is how a real dragon does it!” He smirked as he prepared to unleash a tidal wave with his own splash. He pumped his tiny wings, took a deep breath, and dove. What he didn’t realize was that there was a rather sizeable fish in the pond—one that had taken a particular interest in Scorch’s wiggling tail. Just as Scorch was about to dive, the fish chomped down on his tail with an audible snap. The baby dragon yelped, his dive turning into a flailing mess of wings, tail, and water. He spun in circles, trying to shake off the fish, his attempts only managing to launch him into a spectacular, but very undignified, belly-flop of his own. Blaze burst into laughter, the sound echoing through the forest. “Well, well! Looks like you’ve got your own problems to deal with now, Scales McFlop!” Chaos Ensues The fish, perhaps thinking this was all a game, continued to chase Scorch, nibbling at his tail every time he tried to take flight. Scorch screeched and flailed, sending sprays of water everywhere. By now, the pond had become a battlefield of flailing limbs, fire-colored feathers, and the occasional fiery sneeze from Blaze, who was too busy laughing to care about getting wet again. At one point, a pair of ducks—clearly annoyed by the ruckus—decided they’d had enough and waddled over to investigate. They honked indignantly, but when Blaze turned to sneeze and accidentally lit one of the ducks’ tails on fire, they quickly decided that retreat was the better option. The Aftermath Eventually, the fish got bored, Scorch managed to paddle away to safety, and Blaze, still soaked, was wheezing from laughing too hard. They both floated in the water, surrounded by the drifting leaves of autumn, their chaotic energy finally subdued for the moment. “That was… actually pretty fun,” Scorch admitted, still shaking water from his scales. “But next time, we leave the fish out of it.” “Deal,” Blaze agreed, smoothing down his soggy feathers. “And maybe next time, you can actually manage to splash a leaf without getting eaten by a fish.” Scorch rolled his eyes. “Yeah, yeah, laugh it up, featherbrain.” He paused and grinned. “But at least I didn’t almost set a duck on fire.” Blaze froze. “Wait… where’s the duck?” They both looked to the shore where the ducks had fled. In the distance, a faint trail of smoke could be seen disappearing into the forest. “Let’s, uh… let’s just pretend we didn’t see that,” Blaze suggested. Scorch nodded. “Agreed.” And with that, the fiery duo floated there, enjoying the crisp autumn air and deciding that maybe next time, they’d pick a pond without such feisty fish—or flammable wildlife. Bring the Magic of Blaze and Scorch to Your Home! If you laughed along with Blaze and Scorch’s chaotic splash in the autumn pond, why not bring some of that magical mischief into your own life? Check out these delightful products featuring the duo from "Fall's Fiery Duo": Tapestry – Transform your space with a stunning tapestry of Blaze and Scorch, perfect for adding a touch of autumn magic to any room. Fleece Blanket – Snuggle up with a cozy blanket featuring your favorite fiery duo. Whether you’re enjoying a book or planning your next splash, Blaze and Scorch will keep you warm. Jigsaw Puzzle – Piece together the autumn adventure with this vibrant puzzle, capturing Blaze and Scorch’s playful moment in the enchanted pond. Tote Bag – Take Blaze and Scorch with you wherever you go with this colorful tote bag. Whether you’re heading to the library or off on an adventure, they’ll be right by your side. Don’t miss your chance to bring home a little piece of Blaze and Scorch’s magical world. Perfect for gifts, decor, or just indulging your love for all things whimsical and fiery!

by Bill Tiepelman

Autumnal Knight: The Protector of the Enchanted Forest

In the dappled light of the Enchanted Forest, a place where reality bends and whispers of ancient magics are carried with the mirth of a river’s song, stands the Autumnal Knight. Here, in this sacred grove where the sun filters through the amber canopy, painting the world in hues of fire and gold, the very air breathes with the essence of enchantment. A sentinel rooted deep in the lore and fable of the land, the knight is more than a guardian; he is a living testament to the forgotten alliance between the wilds and those who revered them.The story of the knight, once a mortal of noble intent and valor, as relentless and spirited as the gales that dance amidst the turning leaves, began on an eve of peculiar fate. It was a time when the veil between worlds thinned, and the heart of the forest called out for a champion. Amid the twilight, an ethereal embrace where shadows weave tales and the evening star hums the onset of slumbering dreams, the ancient woods themselves anointed him as their protector. They bestowed upon him armor, not of iron or steel, but born from the very soul of the forest. Each plate and chain, each gauntlet and greave, was wrought in the silent harmony of the forest's eternal hymn. The armor was a work of the lost craft, adorned with the semblance of autumn's foliage, intricate as the web of veins on a leaf, and resilient as the bark that spirals around the elder trees.Throughout the eras, the lore of the Autumnal Knight wound its roots deep into the hearts of those who traversed the forest’s fringe. In subdued murmurs, they recount the vigil of the undying protector, a stewardship that has spanned the slow and relentless march of centuries. To behold the knight is to peer into the essence of the season itself, a reflection of both the beauty and sorrow of autumn's farewell—a magnificent decay.The tale of this sentinel unfolds in the symphony of cascading leaves, in the gentle rustling that speaks of the age-old covenant between man and the untamed. His silent watch, poised and resolute, resonates with a profound proclamation, a clarion call to safeguard the sanctity of this verdant cathedral. Within every leaf that adorns the earth in a mosaic of sunset, within each golden beam that crowns the day in splendor, lies a chronicle of persistence, a testament to the knight's everlasting oath.As the river continues its ceaseless flow beneath him, murmuring tales of yore to the stones it caresses, the Autumnal Knight stands firm. With each dawn, his vigil renews, an eternal echo of the bond between the ever-changing world and the ceaseless spirit that guards it. In this realm where legends breathe and the very stones are steeped in enchantment, his presence is as unwavering as the ancient trees that stand as pillars of the forest. The Autumnal Knight endures, not merely as a remnant of the past, but as an ever-present promise that as long as the leaves fall and the seasons turn, the magic of the Enchanted Forest shall never fade. Discover the enchanting Autumnal Knight collection, where the legends of yore meet the design of tomorrow. Each product in this line has been carefully crafted to capture the magic of the Enchanted Forest and its timeless guardian. Let's embark on a mystical journey with each item: Autumnal Knight: The Protector of the Enchanted Forest Poster Transform your space with the vibrant and soul-stirring Autumnal Knight poster. This is more than just wall art; it's a window into a world where the ancient forest breathes and magic reigns. The poster features the Autumnal Knight in full regalia, a silent oath to protect the wild, casting an aura of wonder and reverence that will permeate your environment. Autumnal Knight Desk Mat Enrich your desk with the mystical allure of the Autumnal Knight desk mat. This practical masterpiece brings the forest's magic right to your fingertips. As you work, write, or play, the knight stands as your silent ally, a bastion against the chaos of the mundane, ensuring your space remains a sanctum of inspiration and productivity. Each product in the 'Autumnal Knight' series is designed to not just tell a story but to be a part of your story, to inspire and accompany you in all your endeavors. Visit Unfocussed.com and let the Autumnal Knight be your guide through seasons of work, creativity, and adventure.

by Bill Tiepelman

Guardian of the Autumn Realm

The saga of Sir Cedric and Ember, the last dragon of Eldoria, unfolded beneath the boughs of the ancient forest, where each leaf whispered secrets of yore and each branch bore the scars of bygone eras. In this mystical land, the cycle of seasons held more than the passage of time—it cradled the very essence of magic that coursed through the realm.The morning mist clung to the ground as the two guardians journeyed through the heart of Eldoria. The forest greeted them with a symphony of sounds; the rustling of leaves and the chattering of woodland creatures composed an overture to their new beginning. The stream where they had sealed their pact now lay behind them, its waters a silent witness to the transformation that had taken place.Their path led them to the Stone of Seasons, a monolith of ancient power standing at the crossroads of the mortal and mystical worlds. As they approached, the stone pulsed with a rhythm akin to a heartbeat, its runes glowing with an ethereal light. The oath had been taken, but the true test of their resolve was yet to come.In the days that followed, Sir Cedric and Ember patrolled the borders of Eldoria, a realm unmarked on any map known to man. They encountered creatures of all manner; the wise old ents that towered above, the nimble pixies whose laughter filled the air, and the elusive unicorns that frolicked in the meadows. Each being acknowledged their role as the new protectors, offering alliances and ancient knowledge.But peace was a delicate veil, and beneath its surface stirred a shadow that had lain dormant for centuries. The whispers of a dark sorcerer, banished to the nether realms by the very magic that now bound Sir Cedric and Ember to Eldoria, began to seep through the cracks of his prison. His power had waned, but his will to return and claim dominion over Eldoria was as strong as ever.Sir Cedric felt the change in the air, a subtle chill that didn't belong to the autumn breeze. Ember sensed it too; her flames flickered with unease. The balance they had sworn to protect faced an impending threat, a darkness that sought to engulf the seasons and throw Eldoria into eternal night.Together, they ventured to the Oracle of the Eldertree, a being as old as time itself, whose roots delved deep into the very fabric of the realm. The Oracle's eyes were like pools of the ancient world, reflecting all that had ever been and all that could yet come to pass.The Oracle spoke in a voice that rustled like the leaves of a thousand trees. "Protectors of the Autumn Realm, a shadow from the past seeks to break the cycle you guard. The sorcerer's chains weaken, and his malice spreads like a plague. You must prepare, for his return is nigh, and only the combined strength of knight and dragon can hold back the darkness that threatens to consume all."With these cryptic words, the Oracle gifted them a talisman, a beacon of light that would guide them in their darkest hour. Sir Cedric clasped the talisman, feeling its warmth seep into his veins, while Ember's scales shimmered with a newfound luster.As they left the sanctuary of the Eldertree, a sense of urgency propelled them forward. They knew that their next steps would lead them towards a destiny that was as uncertain as the whispering winds of change. The fate of Eldoria hung in the balance, and the coming days would test the mettle of its guardians.Sir Cedric and Ember stood at the threshold of an epic tale, one that would determine the survival of the magic that bound not just their realm, but all of existence. As the sun dipped below the horizon, casting long shadows across the land, the two figures stood resolute, gazing into the encroaching twilight.And somewhere, in the gathering dark, the sorcerer’s laughter echoed, a harbinger of the storm that was to come. What would happen when darkness sought to claim the Autumn Realm? Only time would tell, and the tale of the knight and his dragon was far from over, its next chapter shrouded in the mists of suspense...