WORLDBUILDING PODS

Preface

This world is a glimpse at what has been floating around in my brain. It is based on a concept that both fascinates me and creeps me out a bit. If you didn’t know, anything to do with zombies, or disease that take you over, let’s just say, I’d be one of the first to die in the apocalypse. From a heart attack of course.

Story

This story is based in a world where moss is infectious. Not in a terribly invasive or aggressive way, it simply grows wherever it wants - even if that means on humans and animals. Unfortunately, if you find yourself in a situation where it has happened to start growing on you, the only way to remove it is by burning it off. “Weeding”, or pulling it off doesn’t work because, as every experienced gardener knows, you have to remove the roots as well.

It is a slow process, the growing process of moss. Well, not as slow as we would like, just no faster than the pace at which moss normally grows.

Ah yes, you are probably wondering how the moss is actually dangerous. In simple terms, if the moss grows too deep (its roots) or grows into a space that leads to your insides (your mouth, ears, an open wound, etc) then you die. As I’m sure you can imagine, roots growing around your heart would hinder its ability to pump blood. Likewise, moss down your throat would make breathing a challenge!

Side Note: In my travels, I have seen folks who don’t seem too bothered by the growth of the moss on their bodies. If the roots stay shallow, and you trim regularly around your face and such, (and are ok with looking like a walking moss ball), then you’ll be just fine. I’m not sure for how long, but that all depends on your will to live.

Designs

These sketches are the first official designs detailing the characters and environments of this world. Truly, it is an easy world for most, but alas, for those with the need to wander, things can become a bit more tricky.

Most folks cover themselves to prevent the contraction of moss. Others cover themselves because they have moss and want to hide it, or had moss and would like to hide the scars (from burning it off), and honestly, the rest wear coverings to keep their identities hidden. I honestly would wear one so that I wouldn't have to keep fixing my face to look less afraid (as I said, the apocalypse and I would not be friends).

Enjoy!