I'm Peppercorn Flatt (just Pepper, for short) and I'm a 22 year old LGBT+ artist. Beneath the Branches has been a comic that I’ve been working on since I was a senior in high school. I’ve always wanted to create a story of my own, since I’ve read plenty of graphic novels and comics while growing up. Creating characters has always been a passion of mine, and putting them into a story is what I’ve wanted to do. This story is very important to me, as the characters have become really important to me.
Moss Coprinus is a 15 year old, who is often alone. Living in the small town of Woodlake, they are often distrusted by the town folk. “That kid’s not normal,” “they’re strange–” and it certainly doesn’t help that their parents, who were highly liked by the people in town, disappeared two years ago– Gone without a trace, and many people believe it was in part due to the strange nature of their youngest child.
Every day after school, Moss heads to the town square, where a giant pine tree stands, a symbol of the lasting longevity of the town. Often, they come to the roots of the tree, to sit next to the carving of their parents’ name; Just for some peace, for some quiet.
But one day, while Moss is trying to go to their usual spot at the base of the tree, they slipped; Managing to fall in a hole in the ground between the roots– Ending up in a topsy-turvy world paralleling their own, they think everything is normal until they see monsters.
Not scary beasts, but very people-like monsters. Acting just like the humans that they know. Crazy part is so many of them didn't even think humans were real!
Funny thing is? They all know their parents. Moss’ parents were well respected in this realm, being lead scientists in human-monster communication. So now, before they find a way back home, Moss has to find their parents.
Moss Coprinus (they/them pronouns), 15 years old. They're the main character of the story, and a real oddball. They talk to themselves, still play pretend, and are very passionate about the things they like. They really just wanna find their mom and dad, and go home.
Aloftwyn Slogwood (she/her pronouns), 16 years old. Allie for short! A hot-headed harpy, Allie often jumps to conclusions quickly, and tends to assume the worst of people. Upon Moss' arrival, she is immedately distrustful, assuming they're here to hurt them.
Four Eyes (she/her pronouns), 16 years old. Real name is Dahlia Bell. The daughter of a dullahan and multiple-eyed demon, she has gotten both attributes of both. Multiple eyes, and a head that's tied on with a ribbon. Always blunt, she's never afraid to speak her mind. While indifferent to Moss upon arrival, she does take Allie's side; Insisting it's rational to be afraid of a human falling out of the sky.
Calvin Miller (he/him pronouns), 15 years old. Cal for short! Cal's mother was close with Moss' parents, so his family allows them to stay with them. He is very soft-spoken, but kind- The most willing to give Moss a chance upon their arrival.
Tyler Vegas (he/they pronouns), 16 years old. One of the most chill members of the group, Tyler is responsible, and firm when he needs to be. When one of his friends makes a bad choice, he won't hesitate to tell them that he disagrees. He is, though, easily flustered, which may result in him getting a bit glitchy.
Chloe Follman (they/them pronouns), 15 years old. They are completely nonverbal, and either speak in sign language or use an app on their phone for speaking! Nobody treats them any differently, and they are often a close confidant for their friends. With a passion for fashion, Chloe often helps their friends with their clothing.
Elias Von Dracula, (he/him pronouns), 16 years old. Truly a "bad kid" in every sense, Elias is the muscle to Moxie's brain. While he may not seem it, he's actually quite a nasty kid. He'll shove, kick and hurt anyone who gets in his way. He's got a real pension for mischief, and will cause problems on purpose. Moss is his favorite target, much to their annoyance.
Moxie Moore, (she/her pronouns), 16 years old. Older twin by three and a half minutes! While Moxie has a bubbly, charming demeanor, she is actually quite a nasty and bitter girl. She thrives on bullying people behind their backs, and always puts down her own twin. If she's not on top of things, it's everyone's problem. Her actions towards Moss are strange, seemingly endlessly curious about humans.
Vesper Moore, (she/they pronouns), 16 years old. The younger twin, Vesper has always lived in their sister's shadow. Moxie has always been more outgoing than Vesper, smarter, and better at... everything. She tries not to show it, but Vesper is just a very anxious person. Not like their sister is any help, her personality is overwhelming, to say the least.
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