Krëmnëkoxahki
| Krëmnëkoxahki | |
|---|---|
 A rendering of Krëmnëkoxahki emerging from the ground |
In Bep mythology and folklore, Krëmnëkoxahki (Bep: /krɯ.m.ɯ.kɤ.ʎ̥a.ʰki/) is a snake-like creature and primal force, representing and manifesting itself as decay, primarily in the form of rot. It is heavily associated with aspects of mud and forest floor, like deep green and brown colours, darkness, and moisture, as well as the drift season. It is said to show up seeking nourishment alongside its counterpart Sakwotsätahki when major misfortune befalls people. The two are sometimes dubbed the cake snakes in English. When someone is injured or dying, it is common to place pastries nearby for these two to eat in hopes of making them more lenient, delaying, or deterring them entirely. The specific pastry kinds vary heavily by region and social status, but those intended for Krwmnwkoxaĸ̊i tend to have a heavy focus on fruit fillings and general moisture. Unlike pastries typically associated with Sakwocytaĸ̊i, those dedicated to Krwmnwkoxaĸ̊i tend to be deliberately prone to mould and rot, and they are often placed in low-laying places to wither away and inevitably be washed away by seasonal floods.
Name
While the exact origins of the word Krwmnwkoxaĸ̊i are unclear, ancient Bep nomenclature's tendency to name spirits – ahkí – after how people interact with them, it is safe to assume 'krwmnwkoxa-' has something to do with pastries.
Variations, traditions
Historical relevancy
Fourth wall knowledge
The Krwmnwkoxahkí takes its name from the Norwegian krumkake, coined 2019-06-23.