Moonshimmer

“If a Moonshimmer settles on your shoulder, speak only the truth.
They carry lies poorly.”
—Mistkin superstition

The Moonshimmer is a delicate, nocturnal butterfly species native to the misty glades and rain-fed meadows surrounding Pluvia. Known for its iridescent wings that glimmer silver in moonlight and rainfall, the Moonshimmer is seen not only as a natural marvel but as a living symbol of emotional resonance and transformation.

Unlike most insects, the Moonshimmer undergoes a metamorphosis shaped not just by biology, but by ambient emotional energy—responding to the resonance of nearby beings as it grows.

Metamorphosis

The Moonshimmer’s life cycle has three stages, each deeply attuned to emotion:

1. Chrysalis Phase
   The caterpillar spins a cocoon from veillinen-threaded silk, a reflective material that captures emotional impressions. If formed near grief, the cocoon may darken to slate; near joy, it may glow faintly gold.
2. Veilburst Phase
   On the seventh rainfall after the cocoon is complete, the Moonshimmer emerges. Its wing colors and patterns are entirely unique, shaped by the emotional environment of its cocoon. No two Moonshimmers are alike.
3. Echoing Phase
   As adults, Moonshimmers feed primarily on nectar from rain-fed blossoms, particularly mistpetal and hollowshade. While feeding, their wings shimmer more brightly. They are especially drawn to emotionally charged environments, and their wings subtly react to the mood of those nearby—dimming with sorrow, brightening with joy, dulling to grey in the presence of deceit.

Cultural Significance

To the Mistkin, the Moonshimmer is a mirror of the unseen self. They are often released during coming-of-age rites, Echo Offerings, or mourning ceremonies. It’s said that a Moonshimmer landing on you willingly is a sign your heart is in alignment with the Veil.

Among the Clearborn, the butterfly is sometimes seen as a quiet protest against mysticism—proof that a creature may change, thrive, and shine without binding itself to the Hollow.

No matter the belief, all agree: the Moonshimmer carries something that lingers in the heart, long after it has fluttered away.