Celebrating Less Popular Illusen Items

     Illusens Really Sharp Stick

     When you think of Illusen and weapons, what comes to mind? Many would be quick to say Illusens Staff, Illusens Living Sword, or Illusens Blade, but there is another, less-known option out there: Illusens Really Sharp Stick. While this item may not look as flashy as the others, it speaks to the resourcefulness and creativity of Illusen. Beautifully crafted weapons will always have their place, but being able to craft them from branches that have fallen from trees in Illusen’s own glade speaks to Illusen’s connection to the earth and the importance of using natural, local materials.

     Illusen on Physics

     Did you know that Illusen was known for her knowledge in physics? Well, neither did I! And honestly, maybe neither did Illusen. In fact, no one is sure exactly how this book came to be, but we know that it definitely exists. While conceptual connections could maybe be made between the study of matter and energy in physics and Illusen as a representation of life and rebirth, the likelihood that Illusen is brushing up on mathematical physics equations, waxing poetic about the theory of relativity, or learning the intricacies of fluid dynamics seems less likely. That said, when Illusen puts her mind to something, she gets the job done. While this book may not be quintessential Illusen, it shows that you can learn anything if you try.

     Illusen Bouncy Ball

     While the Illusen Bouncy Ball seems fun and playful in concept, and is enjoyed by some throughout Neopia, other Illusen fans out there have expressed concerns over this item. “How can you honour Illusen when you’re essentially slamming her face into the ground repeatedly?” reported one Neopian. Whether you own one of these bouncy balls because you want your playtime to be accompanied by your favorite faerie, or you own one as a way to get your anger out after failing yet another Illusen quest, this item is still one worth acknowledging and celebrating!

     Illusen Halloween Storage Box

     Nothing screams Illusen more than… Halloween? While most associate Illusen with the earth, springtime, and all things green, there are a few Illusen items out there that let you celebrate your favourite faerie even at unconventional times of year! The Illusen Halloween Storage Box is the perfect item to show that your love of Illusen isn’t bound by typical norms, and allows you to carry a little spring with you even on chilly days. Whether you choose to put more Halloween-appropriate items in this storage box, or mix it up by storing items more typically associated with Illusen, this box gives you that flexibility and allows you to think about Illusen at the same time!

     Defaced Portrait of Illusen

     Don’t be alarmed, that’s not a Black Barbat sitting on her eyebrows! This portrait of Illusen can be a little confusing for those unfamiliar with it; those markings aren’t the work of some wayward child or hooligan hastily marking up the picture with a marker they found in their pocket, but is actually an official, printed portrait mass-produced around Neopia. Although the artist has never officially been named, there has, of course, been speculation. Was it Jhudora herself? Was it a Jhudora fan hoping to get in her good graces? Regardless, this Illusen item doesn’t have to be viewed with ill intent, and can instead act as a reminder to not take ourselves too seriously and live life with a touch of humour. If Illusen’s beauty and kindness can still shine through a defaced portrait such as this, then so can each Neopian viewing it!

     Illusens Insignificant Quests Book

     Well, it seems the creator of the Defaced Portrait of Illusen strikes again with the next item on the list: Illusens Insignificant Quests Book. Much like with the previous item, clearly Jhudora herself or a loyal follower thought it funny to downplay and degrade the details of Illusen’s Quests in a book format, all while keeping the same marker-style defacing on the cover. Although this book, much like the portrait, could be viewed maliciously, those with more lightness in their hearts may choose to view this book a little differently. Even Illusen’s “insignificant” quests were worthy of a novel, a format that takes dedicated time to read and is easy to lend to a friend afterwards. Sometimes it can be worth it to celebrate even that which we think is insignificant.

     Handcrafted Illusen Plushie

     While many Neopians are familiar with the Illusen Faerie Doll, the Handcrafted Illusen Plushie is one that seems to get less attention. This plushie may not look as pristinely kept, what with the patchwork and somewhat ragged appearance, but this plushie speaks to those who buy dolls for more than just being pretty collector's items. The Handcrafted Illusen Plushie is one that speaks of well-worn love and joy. This is the kind of plushie that you would carry with you on your adventures. Maybe a few threads might come loose, or it might get a bit dirty, but it will have been a steadfast companion. Handcrafted is literally in the name, speaking to the dedication and heart that went into it being made.

      And that brings us to the end of our list of less popular and well-known Illusen items! Although remembering and celebrating popular Illusen items is a wonderful way to spend the day, I hope each reader will take a moment to remember ALL of the wonderful Illusen-related items Neopia has to offer. Sometimes happiness and comfort can be found in those who are less known, and discovering (or rediscovering) them can help you learn more about yourself and others, too!