Companion Map

We are starting from the bottom of the map.

[preview=Mystical Unicorn Figurine][preview=Arcane Summoning Circle][preview=Sorcerous Summoning Circle][preview=Blue Glowing Wand] [preview=Enchanted Eagle Owl Feather][preview=Ancient Brownie Summoning Tablet][preview=Otter Dapper Critter Kit][preview=Tainted Fog Pendant]

Resizing a stone giant

There was so much to process, first they had to get their companions to go and infiltrate through a series of puzzles then the team needed to split up and go off in search for Pale Lightning. The Chimeriads made their way to the meeting deck aboard their ship the T.S.I.M Chimera.

After thinking for a moment, Valera looked at Feng then at the rest of the companions. "If he's s'posed to fit in the tunnel with the others I think we may have to shrink'im" Turning her glance over to Myra she decided to ask if it was even possible. "Can it be done? He is stone after all..."

Feng listened to the conversation and didn't like it one bit. What sounded like a low growl he wanted to make sure the team knew how displeased he was with the idea of being shrunk.

Myra laid her hand soothingly on Feng´s cool marble-like forehead. "Don´t worry, little one, I won´t harm you!"

Shimmershadow neighed his approval, he would like his friend Feng to go with them. He knew Feng wouldn´t think of him as a friend perhaps yet for the unicorn, all he cared for are his friends of heart.

"Valera, I can mix a concoction which with we can douse Feng when it is cooled down, so he won´t have to drink the potion. It´s a very bitter tonic because of the roots needed for it. We would need Krios for additional enchantment because usually, this potion is only able to shrink a dog-sized animal and not one the size of your companion" Myra explained, already rummaging in her dress pockets for the items needed.

Valera nodded to Myra. "Might as well give'r a go!" She said as she patted Feng who looked up as if he was glaring at her.

The stone beast seemed quite agitated by the idea of shrinking. "Now this concoction isn't permanent is it?" Valera suddenly started to worry as she met Feng's eyes. What would she do if she no longer had this giant beast to aid her? The pirate in her mind might actually miss having her lumbering guardian who keeps her in check and safe.

Myra smiled. "No, we don´t have that power. The shrinking magic is not permanently. It holds for 3 x 7 hours, so almost a day. Do you think that´s enough time for them to go through the tunnel, spy and come back?" the young alchemist worried.

"We could do 7 x 7 hours yet then, you don´t know exactly what´ll happen afterwards......" Krios mused, already in the process of trying out his new staff to full top performance. "However, this new tool seems to be worth his money.........." he speculated and eyed Feng up and down appraisingly.

Feng didn't like the idea of being a test subject, he started to snarl at Krios. "We'll do whatever is the safest." Valera cut in hoping to calm Feng a bit. "Feng can pull out early if it starts wearing off, I'm sure he'll manage." with a worried smile she looked to Feng for approval. A cold glare looked back at her and Valera had a nervous laugh.

"Perhaps I´ll add something to calm his nerves, what do you think?" Myra whispered into Valera´s ear. "Some stuff for making him a little bit more..... cheerful?"

Valera smirked but she knew better not to tamper with Feng because her own life was at stake. "Haha, s'ok m'dear! Feng can stay like Feng. Honestly I wouldn't have'im any other way."

It appeared as if Feng seemed to relax slightly when Valera made that comment. The giant stone beast lied down next to his pirate companion as he waited to see what horrible disaster they would cast on him.

Myra was a little bit worried if she would have enough supplies to shrink Feng to fit the tunnel accordingly yet she carried it off well and with a smile. She fetched a wooden bowl and a mortar from the kitchen and searched her stocks and fortunately, all ingredients were at hand! The alchemist laid out a hair of Shimmershadow for estimating the seize Feng should be changed to, the ear bones of a mice (Myra wasn´t fond of this yet there was no other way to reach her goal) and an ounce of Cat´s Claw for boosting the mix and doused the ingredients with water kissed by a waning moon. "Krios, mix is at the ready!" she declared, giving the water one last touch with her wooden spoon. "Quick, it looses power when standing open for too long!"

Krios flew to Myra´s site, he knew she wouldn´t jest about this. He twisted his staff and proclaimed "Minimus imbibo! Capio canis!" and made some swirling hand motions over the bowl.

"Krios! You said dog, not Shimmershadow!" Myra called out, startled. "What if he becomes the seize of a Yorkie? He clearly would feel uneasy that small!"

"Don´t worry, I thought of a Labrodor during enchanting!" Krios laughed, grabbed the bowl and poured the content over Feng.

Valera watched in a nervous silence as they poured the contents of the enchanted bowl over Feng. The giant beast did not like being doused in whatever this muck was.

After Myra and Krios took a step back, Feng started to shake violently. A steely growl was all the noise Feng could manage to make as suddenly he started to reduce in size. Feng started to panic, he didn't like this at all as he continued to shake uncontrollably while he shrunk in size. Eventually after about a minute the shaking had stopped and Feng had stopped shrinking, he was about half of his original size.

"Awww lookit you! HAHA! You're almost cute!" Valera laughed as she poked Feng who was now the size of a house cat. She went to pick him up but he was still incredibly heavy since he was solid stone. The small creature let out a growl as it tried to snap at one of her fingers. "Well thanks guys! This'll do the job! C'mon Feng lets go get ready!"

Valera tipped her hat in thanks and set off to get ready. Feng glared evilly at both Krios and Myra for what they had done before he pitter-pattered after Val.

Krios and Myra looked at each other and mopped their brows. It remained to be seen if the stone beast bubbled with wrath or joy that it would be able to help. Revenge was a dish best served cold, they knew that. However, there were other tasks to attend to now. The alchemist and the mage hurried over to help with the tunnel system. Doing an adjustment or a little charm here and there. Now it should work!

[spoiler=Companion Adventure] Shimmershadow looked around and tried to catch the mood of the forgathered companions. Never before had they assembled in such cramped conditions, knowing they would go through an even more tightly tunnel shortly. He hoped Hemlock and Silent one and the two demons wouldn´t suffer claustrophobia, being in such closed system, missing the outdoors and the clear sky. Jasper seemed to be cheerful, he strutted around and told the companions about his recent adventures yet the unicorn wasn´t sure he was understood by everyone. Just this minute, he waved his walking stick around in agitation, nearly hitting Rusty on the nose. The furry critter was only able to avoid the missile because of his well trained senses. Shimmershadow looked over to Feng who was shrunk by Myra and Krios to the size of a house cat and didn´t look that intimidating like he used too. He seemed to have adjusted to his new seize now yet with Feng, you never know. The unicorn had tried to communicate with him now and then to no great success, the stone beast resisted telepathy and was stubborn as hell.

Now to decide where to enter the tunnel system! Myra´s companion wasn´t very fond of leaving the alchemist yet he was sure Myra wouldn´t be in danger in a realm which was called Heavens Kitchen and an adventure of his own could be interesting as well. He would feel her through their telepathic bond all the time, even if they were thousands of miles apart and couldn´t communicate with words, they would feel their emotions through their telepathic connection. All seemed to be well with his friend, she seemed to be busy and concentrated. Shimmershadow peered into the tunnel entrance. How would it look inside? he asked himself, curious.

Feng was not amused by this at all. He was about the same size if not only slightly larger than Shimmershadow at this point. Because of this, Feng was incredibly grumpy about the entire ordeal. This tunnel better be worth it somehow was the only thought going through his mind.

Even though he may be small his claws and teeth were still sharp as hell. He made sure to give them a good test on Valera before he was shoved off to go with the other companions.

Bandages wrapped all up her arms, an annoyed Valera watched Feng go off with the others into the bowels of this great tree. Both master and pet seemed to share the grumpiness.

”Closed spaces I mind-not, and darkness is my ally, but this leaving my brother-- without him, why should I fly?”

The crow, SilentOne ruffled his feathers and shook himself. The ebony bird perched on a stone near where the Chimeriad companions gathered outside the large hollow root entrance. The center of this noxious oozing hollow tree root was now a safe mithril tunnel designed by the Cimeriad and placed there by some spell cooked up by Krios with the assistance of Myra.

Still awaiting the other companions to move into the tunnel SilentOne shuffled his wings as he thought up more verses for his mental lament at being separated from Verrek.

"Swift like the morning, Stealthy as the night, I will return to my brother, And then take flight.”

The crow cocked his head in thought.

”Should it be. ’We’ll take flight’ or ‘we will take flight’? Ach! Cursed contractions! What madness gave you life?”

Hemlock did not like any part of this situation. He was supposed to be with Elia, helping her stay safe. The tunnel was no place for an owl – he wasn't sure he could even fully open his wings inside.

Looking around, he spotted Feng, who, while he was quite a bit smaller than normal, still looked sturdy enough.

Hemlock flew over and perched on Feng's back. He guessed Feng probably wouldn't like that much, but Hemlock didn't see any other way, so it would have to work. He gave one last worried glance to Elia, then focused on the path ahead.

"Kronoa and Rhea" Krios said looking at them both, "please be careful out there, don't cause any trouble and be nice to everyone." both Kronoa and Rhea agreed to his terms. They then went to join the group. Seeing the tunnels Kronos made a mad dash for then "Yes tunnels, this is going to be fun!" Kronos speaking as he is the first one to enter the tunnel before anyone else. "Kronos hunny, you need to stay back here, so that we stay together and not get lost." Rhea insisting as she races after him and pulls him from going any further.

He turned around and listened to her, but not wanting to of course. As they sat by the entrance waiting for everyone to get situated, they watched as the giant unicorn was re-sized to a little bigger than them. Kronos started to laugh at the unicorn, but Rhea glared at him and he suddenly stopped. They had already said there goodbyes to Krios, because of Kronos wanting to get started already.

Jasper stumbled over to the group of companions, dragging a bottle of whisky behind him. He seemed as if he was ready for a grand adventure.

Lilith suddenly came racing from out of nowhere cursing Jasper's name. "YOU FILTHY LITTLE!" The otter heard her and tried to hide the whisky bottle behind his back and smile. Lilith did not look amused. As she drew closer Jasper had a sudden idea! THE TUNNEL! He tipped his hat at his owner and quickly raced off to the tunnel leaving the bottle of whiskey behind. He had hoped by the time he got back from his adventure Lilith may not be so angry at him.

The unicorn stood slightly disorientated at the tunnel entrance. Carefully, he took the first step into the tunnel system. There was not much light, only an eerie light blue glow, and the floor was hard and slippery, he had to put his hooves down with determination to prevent slipping and falling.

The other companions began moving into the maze, SilentOne flew after them. Inside his magical night-vision allowed him to see as if it were broad daylight though he was still aware of the blue glow. He flapped above the heads of the other companions but he had to back-flap a lot to keep from soaring too far ahead and his wing tips brushed the walls and heads of those beneath him. He quickly realized that in these cramped conditions it was going to be more of a nuisance than a help to have him flapping above the group. SilentOne fluttered over to ShimmerShadow and spoke to the unicorn Foal in the tongue of beasts and birds, essentially a language made up of animal noises.

<<ShimmerShadow, might I travel along on your back while we are in these tunnels? I will not scratch you with my claws and I can leap off at a moment’s notice if you need me to.>>

Shimmershadow stopped in mid-stride, delighted to hear SilentOne talk in the tongue he knew so well. He tossed his mane and answered, friendly like always. "Sure, little one, you´re very welcome to sit on my back and walk with me! Rhea, Kronos, you too!" the unicorn extended his invitation. "With this, we can progress more stealthy without making flattering noises. And if the need arises, you can go on the scout!" Shimmershadow suggested, not mentioning that he could fly as well.

SilentOne uttered a quiet thanks and landed on ShimmerShadow's withers, his shoulders, being careful to not dig in with his claws. The bird looked about to see what the demons Rhea and Kronos would do.

The demons acknowledged Shimmershadow but for the time being just followed him into the tunnel.

They finally entered the tunnel as they started out the both were walking just fine behind everyone, but they couldn't see what was happening in front of them. So, they decided to walk on the ceiling of the tunnel. "Much better upside-down, wouldn't you say?" Kronos asked Rhea. "I would indeed say so, great idea hun." replying as they continued to walk. They soon came to a fork in the tunnel. They looked at each other "Right" "Left" they both saying where they want to go at the same time. "We are going Left with Feng." Kronos insisted. "No we are going with Shimmer, she is our Masters best friends companion, we need to stick together." Rhea replied as in making a point. "Fine" Kronos said folding his arms and walking to the left, but to be quickly pulled by Rhea to the right

This place didn't seem very special the grumpy oaf of a stone beast grumbled to himself as he followed the others. The lantern around his neck helped with some extra light in this slightly dim place. There were windows that showed other paths, this place was like a small maze.

Eventually the small troupe came to a fork in the road, they all seemed to pause. That is except Feng. With a small huff he just kept on going, hoping to get this over with he took the path to the left.Hemlock watched behind them as the other companions stopped at the fork. Feng didn't seem to have any intention to stop and think, so, that was that. Hemlock didn't have much choice but to go along with whatever Feng decided, he watched the rest of the group make up their minds as his ride strode straight past them.

There was a fork in the road after a short time and he decided to choose the right path without spending much consideration or intuition, he was still trying to cope with the slippery ground. Shimmershadow was slightly annoyed to see Feng taking the left path, that figures! he thought. <<No, I think the stone brute is fine in taking the left passage, but I will go with you still, ShimmerShadow.>> SilentOne croaked in his quiet, raspy voice. Rusty looked at Jasper as they both tried to make up their minds. It was a tough call. In the end they decided to take the path to the left with Feng and scurried off after him and Hemlock before they were left behind.

There didn't seem anything out

DOES THE AWKWARD RUN THROUGH AGAIN

[Spoiler=Valera at Lone Rock] While the T.S.I.M. Chimera was en route to the asteroid her and Elia were to head off in search of Pale Lightning, Valera got herself ready. From the descriptions she got of the terrain she had a good idea of a few things she would need. Face mask to cover the blowing sand, a hooded cape to shield herself from any harsh weather conditions, and 2 swords mounted on her back for quick and easy access because she didn't want to tote around the ammo for her pistols. Deciding to put on her trusty combat boots the pirate looked at herself in the mirror and felt as if she was forgetting something. WATER! She grabbed a few of her empty alcohol flasks and filled them with some water in case she would need them to stay hydrated. Still something seemed off. Holding up her piece of the enchanted stone she received while in the dreaded maze she thought to herself it might be good to keep on her in case something came up and she'd need to contact Elia. Sliding the stone inside a small compartment on the underside of a small skull hairclip, she clipped it to her hood where one of her ear holes were. There! Valera was as ready as she could ever be as she pumped herself up and tried reading up on what little information she had about this "Lone Rock". In her research she found that because the asteroid didn't have a rotating sun or star that half of the location is in perpetual day and the other night.

There was a light alarm that went off indicating to the crew mates that they were indeed at Lone Rock. Both Elia and Valera met by the exit hatch and nodded to themselves. It seemed weird to Valera to go off without having her giant stone guardian, she had to stay alert and prepared for anything.

Once their ship landed and the both of them got off, Valera looked to Elia before adjusting the hood on her head. "We better go our separate ways, we'll cover more ground. You can take the sunny part o'this place. I'll check out the dark'n'dreary half." Elia just nodded in agreement before she silently set off.

Watching Elia disappear in the distance, Valera took in a deep breath before heading off herself. The sky looked horribly grey in the direction she was to go. "this is just great..." she mumbled to herself.

As Valera trekked onwards the natural light started to fade as she made her way around the asteroid to where the sun never shone. The weather worsened as Val pulled the hood down further over her head to cover it from the incoming rain. If there were to be clues that would help her find Pale Lightning they would most likely be disappearing from the rain washing it all away by now.

Letting out a disheartened sigh as the weather refused to let up, Valera told herself she had to keep on going because this Pale Lightning fellow needed to be found and stopped. Her long viera ears suddenly caught a sound, something was nearby and it made her jump. Unsheathing the 2 swords on her back, Valera turned to face whatever caused the sound. A twig snapped from behind her and to her side, it would seem either whatever it was moved incredibly fast or there was more than one.

Trying to stay poised and ready for anything, Val did whatever she could to scan the area around her with sound and sight. One... Two.. No! There was 3 creatures approaching her from different directions. She could now see the glowing eyes of the creature in front of her, it appeared like a large lizard with huge snapping jaws.

Deciding to go on the offence before the 3 lizards could close her in completely, Valera ran straight at the one in sight. Jaws snapping at her, her left sword plunged right between its eyes and her right sword promptly cut off its front clawed arm. One lizard was down for the count but the other 2 closed in on her now at great speeds. "SHITE!" Valera cried out as her left sword was currently stuck in the dead creature's skull. Using her right sword to parry a claw swipe, Val was quick to dodge the large set of jaws that attempted to rip her limb off. The creature that lunged in for a bite turned for a second try. Luckily for the pirate it missed and now had a mouthful of the dead lizard, helping in dislodging her second sword.

"Thanks mate!" Val laughed as she fought off the third lizard. Eventually she was able to get a good swing in and cut the creature's chest wide open just before it took another swing at her. That lizard screeched in pain as the other finished spitting out the part of it's dead brethren. The wounded lizard was losing too much blood, it would most likely not survive anything more than another hour or two. Rather than leaving it in horrific pain Val approached the lizard and swiftly ended its life to ease it from all the suffering.

That left one more giant lizard to deal with. Turning to face the last one Val noticed it lowered its head and was starting to back away slowly. "OI! Where d'ya think you're goin'?!" Valera yelled at it. The scared and threatened lizard snapped its jaws together almost in acknowledgement right before it high-tailed it out of there and ran for its life.

Cleaning off her blades with the rainwater, Val re-sheathed them and adjusted her cloak and mask. There was still so much ground to cover. Apart from the odd lizard, Val had no trouble manoeuvring through the dark uncharted land. This place was desolate, barren, dark and she was now drenched to the bone from this cursed rain. There were no signs whatsoever of anyone but herself and the lizards on this part of the asteroid.

As Valera was about to call Elia via the shard she got a signal from the T.S.I.M. Chimera. It's sensors seemed to have picked something up at its location.

Taking off in a quick sprint, vaulting over rocks and avoiding any more necessary encounters the viera returned back to her ship as fast as she could. Thankful that the rain stopped she was able to cover ground more quickly without water slowing her down.

Getting to the ship Val paused and caught her breath. It would seem as if Elia responded to the sensor scan as well. Nodding to her companion, Valera went to check the sensors only to find a tumble-weed caught in the system. Because it had been such a long day already, being drenched to the bone and beyond tired Val and Elia climbed aboard the ship and debriefed each other on the way back to the others.[/spoiler]

Elia at Lone Rock

Elia set out looking for any sign of Lightning or his craft. She looked around at the desolate landscape and saw nothing promising. If she were Lightning, her first priority would be finding shelter and a place to hide – she looked toward the nearest series of cliffs and began hiking in their direction.

'Lizards... I know there are lizards somewhere...' Elia thought to herself, though she hadn't seen any yet, or any tracks. Even if there had been, an hour in this wind would have covered them. She chose a path loosely following a dry creek bed as it meandered into a canyon, pulling her cloak around her to protect herself from the blowing dust. Although she had her trusty bow and dagger, she missed Hemlock's presence greatly – if he were there, he would be flying high above her, helping her search with an owl's eyesight. Her task would be trivial. She sighed. No use complaining.

The canyon loomed larger as Elia approached and she peered into the darker interior. The stream had broadened somewhat and the canyon floor was full of mucky water. On the banks, she could see taloned footprints. 'I'd better watch my back here,' she thought.

Elia heard a skittering sound from her left and quickly turned, putting her back to the canyon wall. An oversized lizard stalked toward her, fangs bared, hissing. She nocked an arrow and followed the lizard's movement. Before the lizard could lunge toward her, she loosed the arrow, downing the creature. She readied her bow again and looked for other targets, when suddenly she heard a screech from behind her, and turned suddenly to see three more lizards approaching from outside the canyon.

She took a deep breath, quickly aimed, and shot an arrow at the nearest one. The others split to each side, one jumping toward her, claws outstretched. Elia pulled the dagger out of her boot and stabbed the lizard before it could bite her.

Elia looked around and saw the last lizard running away, out of the canyon. 'Good,' she thought, 'maybe it will warn the others to leave me be.' She dusted herself off as her breathing returned to normal. Checking that her way was still clear, she headed farther into the canyon, looking for caves or crevasses that would make good shelter, or for any signs of Lightning or debris from his craft.

Hour after hour, Elia continued, searching around the canyon, but she found nothing. She stopped to eat a snack and have some water from her pack. 'This is useless,' she thought. 'There's no sign of anything but the lizards, and even they have been scarce.'

Suddenly, she heard an alarm through her communication stone. 'Something's up at the Chimera,' she realized. Elia looked around and considered her situation. All her instincts told her Lightning wasn't there, so, best to just turn back before she got any farther. She packed her things back up, and set off at a jog through the mucky canyon floor.

Valera seemed to have answered the alarm as well, she had returned to the ship as well. It would seem as if there was a tumbleweed caught in one of the sensors, this was the cause for the alarm. The pair returned to the ship and debriefed each other about their venture.

Lilith at SIGHON

After hours of trying on clothing Lilith finally decided on a black ensemble, a see-through negligee, black panties, fishnet stocking's and a pair of dungeon boots. Who knew getting ready to take your clothes off could be so taxing? After wishing Jasper good luck and decorating the bedbarge to her liking she finally set off to Sighon. As the planet came into view she tapped into her call stone. “I'm heading in team, I'll let you know when I find something.” Settling into the atmosphere she could feel the pull, like something awakening deep inside her. No wonder they call this the pleasure planet it's hard not to enjoy yourself when it calls to you. Looking around she finally found the area she could settle down into, at least a hundred other ships rested next to hers theirs lights flashing trying to entice customers into their doors, some had girls outside in provocative poses beckoning to anyone who happened along. Lilith set up shop and waited, she slowly began to dance her body pulsing with the music and before long she had a customer, the gentleman looked young, clean cut, perhaps a soldier? Lilith cut a deal took his money and exchanged her services, once satisfied she began her interview. “Have you heard of Pale Lightning?” She asked innocently. “Like the singer?” He replied pulling up his pants. “That's the one, have you seen him around?” She prodded. “No? Maybe? I mean all of you look alike so it's hard to tell.” He smirked and walked out before Lilith could ask him anything else, she mumbled profanity under her breath and made an obscene gesture towards the door. “Ungrateful sack of bones.” She spat before walking outside to try again.

After the seventh customer and no luck getting anything out of them other than money Lilith closed up shop and wandered deeper into the underbelly. As she walked through the crowded streets she noticed small vendors selling powders and vials, every so often someone would stop to sample the merchandise buy something and then wander into one of the building's nearby, as she came to the end of a street she couldn't help but notice the giant building with a stag on the front. As she entered a sea of bodies brushed against her but she fought through until she was near the center, a large antlered creature with an eye-patch sat surrounded by passed out bodies, a hookah cord grasped in his hand. Lilith made her way towards him intrigued, settling down next to him he looked her over. “You must be new here.” He took a drag of hookah before passing it to Lilith. “Go ahead it's from my private stock, the best you'll ever have.” He brushed his hand over her skin as she pressed the device to her lips, an explosion of feeling's overtook her. “What is this stuff? She coughed out. “A little pick me up, something you keep you going all night long.” He let out a booming laugh as he took another drag. “This is my never ending party, I'm Stag by the way.” He brushed her skin again with his hand. “I'm Lilith, I'm looking for a guy named Pale Lightning have you seen him?” She smiled sweetly at him. “Depends on why you're asking?” Stag replied a curious gleam in his eye. “I'm not going to lie to you, he owes me money, damn bastard skipped out on me after a session and I haven't seen him sense. Got a tip he might be here on Sighon so I came to check it out.” Lilith lied. “Sorry baby haven't seen him in months, I guess he has a habit of using people and dipping out.” Stag shook his head and continued to smoke. “Well I guess I'll be going then, gotta go wring my leads neck” Lilith prepared to get up. “Whats the rush baby? You came all this way why don't you stick around and at least get something out of it?” Stag rested his hand on Lilith's thigh a smile on his face. “I guess I could stay, It would be nice to release a little stress. I'll be back in a couple of minutes just gotta let my crew know we'll be staying for a bit.” She got up and walked to a fairly quiet place. She once again tapped into her call stone. “I wasn't able to find Lightning, doesn't seem like he's been here in months. I'll be heading back in a couple hours with a full report on my finding's.” Moving back towards Stag she let herself get taken by everything going on, a little stress releasing would be a good thing.

[spoiler=Myra at heaven's kitchen] Heaven´s Kitchen, Myra chuckled, sounds a little bit like Schlauraffen Land to me, the mystic land of milk and honey. Smiling, she recalled her parents telling her about this legend every so often in her childhood days. The alchemist recalled afternoons spent in the cozy sitting room with the blonde pine wood furniture, reading a book or helping her mother in the kitchen with the dough. Vividly, she remembered the fumes of fresh cinnamon buns and rosemary bread with organic olive oil. Her mother was a splendid cook and every meal was a little feast.

Myra sighted. She herself was not much of a cook. The preparation of alchemistic salves and powders were much more to her liking. The only thing she liked to boil were herbs, if needed for remedies, and her cooking skills didn´t reach beyond mashed potatoes. Even if she simmered a soup, it was always a healing one.

So at first she was not very fond to to go Heaven´s Kitchen, of all the places. She would have preferred to fly to Creeque Alley because she loved to play the harp or go with Krios to MageBorough. Even The Catchment would have been much more to her liking. However, she pondered, Verrek and Matthew seemed much more fit for scouting these areas with all their background knowledge.

So what could she offer when she requested admission to the cooking school on this special moon of Sighon? After some minutes of pondering, a slow smile spread over her face. There were two things she excelled in! Cupcakes and complementing infusions! The Elves were always fond of her herbal teas even when they only very rarely tasted a cupcake. Composing these matching dishes was like writing a poem or playing a soothing musical piece on the harp. And for the black market, there would always be her precious white tea.

First, she would search in the cooking school for Lightening, then dive into the deeper alleys. Lightening was known to be a gourmet so there was a high chance catching him on the moon! Myra looked at the apron Nancy had given to her. Not the height of fashion, uggh. She pepp

[Spoiler=Krios in Mageborough] After Lucien and Izzy threw Krios out of their vehicle with some fireworks and a parachute, Krios bridged the time until landing with trying to get an overview of Creeque, the planet he was sent to for finding Lightening, which would be a piece of cake. He thought of Myra, and that this saying would apply to her moon even more, yet then concentrated on what he was seeing and feeling and which vibes he perceived from the planet and its beings. The planet itself showed the usual land masses, oceans and currents from above yet the winds felt very warm, much warmer than you would have anticipated it so high in the air.

Back at the Gearloose Goose, Krios had spoken to all the people around, trying to gather as much information about Creeque and especially MageBorough, as he could get. So he knew that the weather on this planet wasn´t dictated by seasons, it was spring-like all year around with the usual short rain shower quickly followed by light sun and fair weather clouds, often accompanied by a colorful rainbow, exactly like a mage planet should be. Nevertheless, sometimes this idyllic picture was rattled by a cataclysmic storm caused by dispute and fights amongst the different mage clans. Well, Krios pondered, not every wizard was able to control his feelings, every one has to learn, after all. Incidents happened. He knew enough storm protection spells and such minor flaws would be no problems for him.

Krios mused about which one of the seven Guilds he would approach. They were all rich and mighty. Resources on this planet were formidable and what couldn´t be achieved, some well-casted spells would generate. Nevertheless, the mages were often jealous, guarded their properties and their magic knowledge and every new wizard who wants to enter a Guild would be vetted in all disciplines. Where there could be light and carefreeness, there would also be darkness and constraint. And so the 7 Guilds were completely different, too. Arcane, Necromancer, Shamanic, Druids, Elemental, Illusionists and Dragoneras, they were called. Arcane wizards were known for their secrecy and very closed ranks. They cherished esoteric theories and constantly tried to acquire mysterious knowledge. They were very educated, often in the fields of astrology and astronomy, and the most curious of all magi, pursuing their theories and their dreams. Telescopes and rune stones were their favored treasures. They were much more to Krios´ liking than the necromancers, a Guild which theories and amenities he left for himself years ago. Raising the undead, that was not a field he wanted to excel in - in recent times. Shamanic, Druids and Elemental Guilds were the ones working with nature charms. Whereas shamans used the power or totem animals, healing dances and chants, the Druids used the vigor of the wheel of the year and were extremely powerful on certain days known to be good for crossing the lines between this world and the ghost world. They tried to live with the power of nature and were extremely fond of trees, an idea that sounded to Krios like absolutely good for nothing. Elemental magi worked with water, fire, earth, air and plasma magic, fields Krios was not that much experienced in. The largest Guild was the one of the Illusionists. With all the magic parks and entertainment around, they needed a lot of talented new blood and so they were not very particular to new arrivals. Dragoneras lived outside the big city, in high places called weyrs. They were famous for breeding and tending small and giant dragons to which they were bound by soul and telepathy. Krios remembered his short friendship with Aldora´s dragon, Telley, yet dismissed the idea of joining this Guild immediately, he knew almost nothing about these creatures.

Ah, the ground, finally! With en elegant hop, Krios landed to the loud applause of several bystanders of the Illusionist´s Guild, directly on the big leaves of a huge lotus flower, adrift on an enchanted sea. Only due to the heavy air which also made sure Krios fell down to the earth very slowly, he wasn´t drowned immediately yet landed only with a soft plop. The young mage used his hands and paddled to the near waterside, where he disembarked and slowly tried to move in the rhythm of the planet.

Scents of marshmallows, roasted almonds and candy floss hung in the air and he heard a faint music which reminded him of an old fashioned fair. He expected flying swings and a ferris wheel yet instead of them, laughing children flew through the air on intricately carved and painted wooden horses which wagged their tails in mid-air. A young female Illusionist, clad in several layers of sheer fabric strung together with pearls and fitting silver thongs, approached him and stopped blowing her soap bubbles, out of which tiny fairies originated and flew high into the air. The girl´s white long hair was open and flowed lazily in the soft warm wind. "Can I be of help?" she asked, with a voice commemorative of tiny silver bells struck from a breeze. "Are you looking for something or somebody?" Thousand thoughts crossed Krios´ mind. Where should he search, for what Guild should he decide? He let their vibes pass along his aura once again, then chose Arcane. These guys were the most talented in gathering knowledge and showed a natural curiosity, they also didn´t seem to be that intimidating like the perhaps more mighty Necros and for all that nature- or animal-centered ones, Myra would be much more the specialist. So Arcane, it was! "I am looking to join the Arcane Guild." Krios answered the girl, trying to hold her eyes and not accidentally glancing downward where transparent fabrics hid next to nothing. The girl smiled lasciviously and pointed in the direction of a nearby alley. "Follow this one, it leads to the entrance of a maze. It´s the beginning of the Arcane territory. Stay cautious, though, they´ll watch you from their spiral tower up the hill!" That´s it, a maze, Krios thought. No way I´ll enter one again after such a short time! "Is there no other way which leads to the Guild?" he asked desperately. The young illusionist observed the unease of the newcomer and provided some new information. "There is also a tunnel which leads to the Arcana tower......." yet trailed of as she saw Krios reaction. A tunnel! Oh no! They had needed hours to find an acceptable way through the tubes for their beloved companions! "You could try to use the teleport station down below!" the girl said and pointed in the opposite direction, where several beings were queuing. "You would need an Arcane coin for using it, though." the illusionist objected. "Where would I get one?" Krios asked, silently counting the time he would loose for all these tedious tasks. "Oh, that´s easy!" the girl supplied. "Just fill one of the mage booths over there and people will approach you, asking for magical help. When they like what you do, they´ll pay you with teleportation coins!" "And when they don´t like what I do......?" "Oh, depends on the suppliant. If it´s a mighty mage in disguise, testing unworthy members of their clans, you could be dead in the water....." the girl offered helpfully.

Cursing, Krios left her and occupied a booth which became available just this minute. The young woman who was working in it before absconded south bond, loudly crying and touching her burned hair. A ferocious looking old mage with a necro insignia on his black and red cloak sauntered north, a smirk on his face. With mixed feelings, Krios sat down on the small wooden bank in the crudely knocked together booth and asked himself if that was a premonition of what was to come on him anytime soon.

Around the corner, two black clad Elves were hanging around, looking diabolical. They whispered and one of them stood up and steered in the direction of his booth. Looks like another confrontation, Krios thought, steeling himself. His worries were alleviated as a young mother with a crying toddler in tow reached his booth a little bit faster, and the Elf hang a U, cursing. Kid stuff, that would be no formidable challenge for an experienced mage! He smiled and winked at the little girl as the two of them advanced. "What happened?" he asked, finding nothing unusual at the first glance. Mother and daughter wore matching clothes, a short jeans skirt, a shirt with pastel flowers and sandals. The girl looked a little bit pale, though. "She has the hiccups!" the mother told Krios. The young mage relaxed. Ah, he had relieved people of such condition a million times! "That´s no problem, we have her right as rain in just a blink......." Krios stopped in midsentence as another hiccough rattled the girl. With the well known squeaky noise, the mouth of the girl opened and a dozen tiny blue balloons were uttered impulsively and found their way to several passersby, only to explode right in front of them and splash them with ice cold water. The bystanders tried to bolt yet most to no success, and a lot of swearing was to be heard. The old mage who came back to observe the new aspirant was knocked at the head and doused with the water out of two balloons. He shook a fist at Krios, clearly thinking he had done this on purpose.

Now Krios was the one going pale. Quickly, he searched his mind for any enchantment fitting the situation which would work faster than a counter spell from the fierce looking wizard. He laid a hand on the head of the girl, twirled his newly acquired staff and intoned: "Absentis orbis! Vigoratus puella!" and with a firework of whooshes and plonks and bangs, a last cloud of balloons emerged out of the girl, the last one exploding with a loud plop on the shoes of the fast approaching wizard. Krios ducked quickly behind the booth and spun a protection spell around the three of them, avoiding the thrown fireballs by a hairsbreadth. The young mage made sure his patient and her mother were okay and they thanked him overjoyed and with a Shamanic Coin for the teleporter. The young mage was sorely disappointed with this yet did´t let it show. The woman carried around no other tokens, she told him, and perhaps he would be able to trade this one in for an Arcane one.

Krios looked around, the old wizard and the two Unseelie were gone and the place seemed peaceful again. Where to look for a trade? He dodged absentminded a hula hoop a young Illusionist had tried to direct through the cloud, apparently a freshman, Krios thought, since this attempt looked not very elegant at all. Suddenly, he noticed a stand of a thimblerigger nearby. Yes, that could be a possibility! Enchanting some cones was not a problem, changing a magic coin from a Guild with powers unknown to him was. So he hasted over, not after observing the doings of the player for a while. It was a real flashy dude who tried to get new players into the game, clad in designer jeans, cowboy boots, a cream silken vest under a light green linen jacket and a straw hat with a fitting green band on top. He flashed his teeth and looked encouragingly at Krios. "Can I interest you in a nice thimble game, Sir?" The mage shook his head slowly, pretending indecision. "I am only interested in Arcane Coins, two, to be exact. And I can only offer a Shaman Coin for it." "That would be a meager income for me!" the thimblerigger added for consideration. "Not if we only play once and not three times like you do it normally!" Krios suggested. "Deal!" the showman exclaimed, "Tell me where the red wizard is!" Instead of balls like usually used on other planets, there were a green, blue and red very lively looking wizard figurine under the cones who gesticulated wildly with their arms. Their protest didn´t lead to success, though, because the thimblerigger began to spin his cones with breath-taking speed. Krios tried to concentrate. Right - middle - right - left - left - right ........ he could feel the red wizard sliding from site to site because he had attached it silently to his aura seconds before. The thimblerigger stopped as suddenly as he began and asked his client with a wide grin to make his choice. "Right one!" Krios demanded. The man lifted the cone and yes, it showed the little red wizard, spinning on his own further own, then collapsing with outstretched tongue and blinking eyes. "You win!" the showmen said, astonished, and scratched his head. "That hadn´t happened in a million years......." . He gave Krios the two Arcane Coins and shooed him away, to make room for the next players in line. The young mage tucked the coins into his pocket and hasted to the next teleporter.

The teleporter was a cabin made of clear glass with a shining metal coin machine in it, quite similar to an old fashioned telephone box. While waiting in the queue for his turn, Krios studied the Arcane tower and its premises as well as he was able to from this distance. The tower was of spiraling stone and painted in a deep blue, very high and tappering upwards. Crenelations adorned the top platform and the high windows were all out of lead crystal, showing pictures of sun, moon and stars. On the platform stood an enormous telescope, bathed in an eerie silver light which rutilated from an opening in the stones. A dark blue banner flattered in the wind, showing the Arcane emblem, a silver telescope lying in an open ancient golden rune book.

Somebody barged into Krios from behind and he snapped out of his musings, obviously it was his turn now. He stepped into the cabin, put the coin into the coin machine and pressed the Arcane button. The cabin door closed with a metallic crunch and a cheerful female voice out of a loud speaker announced: "Have a good day, my fellow voyager, and welcome to the magic teleporter powered by TMS, The Magic Service of all your needs! Make sure to have stowed all your belongings safely away and to have cleared your mind from any negative thoughts concerning transport. Children under ten are only allowed to travel with an adult and have to be taken by the hand during the whole flight. If an emergency arises during transportation, we are sure you will handle it on your own, transport is on your own risk. Now close your eyes and breath deeply and have a pleasant flight!" And with the last word, the cabin began to spin and Krios felt a tugging at his body and was whooshed along through time and space. Only some seconds later, Krios was on terra firma again, in another glass cabin shining in a dark blue light. With a ding-a-ling, the cabin door opened and the female voiced said her goodby: "Oh, you have totally reached your destination, that´s not happening in every case, my congratulations! Thank you again for having chosen TMS and have a magic day!" And Krios was pushed out and the door closed behind him.

The young mage looked around, trying to take his surroundings in. He stood on a velvet blue carpet in a round room with six wooden doors, adorned with carvings and silver inlays and golden handles. There was nothing else in the room, no chair, no table, no adornments. So he had to choose a door, Krios thought, yet which one? The doors showed different symbols carved into them, and describing runes. There was a book, a telescope (no surprise so far), a tree, a knot, a jester and a moon. Krios taxed his brain, knowing he wouldn´t have that much time left until Lucien and Izzy would come for him. He searched for wisdom, the knowledge if Lightening would be on this planet. So perhaps the book door was the right one? Certainly not the telescope, or does it signify to look for someone, too? The tree looked suspiciously like a hermetic Kabbala tree, an esoteric science the young mage was not familiar with. The knot reminded him of an esoteric love knot like the old Celts used them yet he wasn´t here for any love magic or advice. The moon could mean all or nothing, it was an astronomic symbol yet the moon stood also for change, illusion and emotion. Too vague, like the picture we see on the firmament, the young mage thought. Only one thing left, the jester. Of course, it has to be the jester! Krios thought suddenly. The Jester was the first card of the 78 cards of the Tarot deck. He represented the beginning of a

Cream is sick and so may be a couple minutes late

her adventures will go here. I'm an idiot and forgot I had the HA already. >.<

((Please excuse Dragon, but Cream is busy writing and I can't snag any other team members right now. Thank you, , you're a lifesaver. <3))

((I have to go to bed so I don't wreck my sleep schedule for work. Cream has been deputized for the night and should post when she finishes.))

I was busy losing my supper,I apologize for being late. This is my rp for chapter 9 and my group is the fellowship. It was supposed to go in the post above but shy had to go to bed so I will put it here.

My rp for sighon

Cream pondered what lay ahead of her in sighon and wondered if she could do this,Pressing her clothes into place she took in a deep breath and looked over at fuzzybottom. "What do you think?" she asked the little fluffball who was currently sniffing the side pocket of her satchel. Fuzzybottom looked up briefly from his search for treats and gave a little chitter chuff then said "Much bad,Hide eyes" and quickly put two fluffy paw across his eyes. This was too much for the little fuzzball who had been through a lot of different situations thus far but nothing quite like this.

Cream examined herself in the mirror,Well sure it's different then my normal vagabond attire but it's not THAT bad she thought to herself. She was experimenting with different ideas for what to wear when she reached sighon and practicing how to present herself so that she could be sure to capture lightning's attention if they were indeed in sighon and not in one of the other areas . This was a lot tougher then she had anticipated, She was used to relying on her bits and pieces of knowledge from all the areas to get her through sticky situations and in this case she had nothing to rely on except the makeshift bedbarge that was currently being constructed outside her window and her own looks. Pondering aloud she thought that perhaps she should bring along some wallpaper and a few odds n ends to give the bedbarge a backdrop of sorts and give it the appearance of being a bed inside an actual room rather then just a floofy floating craft of sorts with no real attention grabbing properties. Quickly she gathered up her satchel and filled it with a cutting shears,glittery ribbon,paper lanterns,some wallpaper,candles,glue,fabric,and whatever else she felt would be useful along with her outfits and several wigs.

Just as Cream was finishing her packing and doing a last scan of the room she heard pugsy coming in,Pugsy announced that her bedbarge was now finished so she could begin her trip to sighon. She turned and whistled for fuzzybottom to go into the satchel and then pulled on her final outfit choice and began to head outside toward her flying bedbarge.

On her way she was subject to a lot of catcalls and whistles,She reminded herself she was doing this for a reason and that it would be worth it in the end. With her head held high she climbed aboard the bedbarge,screwed a hook into one bedpost,and then hung her satchel from that. "Let's see now" she said while tapping her chin,Ahhh here we go these must be the controls she thought to herself. Sure enough she was right,She punched a series of buttons and began to lift up off the ground,Carefully she maneuvered the craft to the right and punched another button speeding it up and adjusting its path towards sighon.

Several hours later cream finally reached sighon's front gates,"Wow!" she exclaimed to no one in particular,They hadn't been kidding when they said this was the pleasure planet...You name it,Booze,gambling,dancing,stripping,etc...It was all here for the taking. Fuzzybottom chose that moment to poke his head out of the satchel a bit and his eyes got round and wide as he took in the surroundings...He chittered over and over..."Too much,Hide eyes"

Mustering up all the ability she had inside herself to be flirty and charming she batted her eyes at the guard at the gate ahead and softly she said,"As you can see I am here for some business of the pleasure kind" she winked and the guard blushed but happily let her in and she knew he'd probably come by later.

Cream felt sorry for her trusty companion having to witness all this but it had to be done for the good of all so with that in mind she steered her barge into a docking station and went to talk to the nearby docking port rental shop.

Upon entering the shop she was greeted by a man with a funny little top hat and monocle who happened to not be wearing much else. How can I help you today maam? he asked cream Cream replied "I'm looking to rent a docking spot for a few nights,How much will it be?" Tapping his chin thoughtfully the little man replied "I don't suppose you'd have any paper lanterns would you?" "In fact I do" cream replied. Clapping his hands together the little man exuberantly said "If you'll let me have those we can call it even,I need some more light in here for certain activities" he said as he gave her a wink and tipped his hat.

Cream thanked the man profusely then went on her way to begin setting up her makeshift room setting for her bedbarge. She began furiously cutting,gluing,and twisting ribbons around the bed and pasting up the wallpaper then she sat out some candles and a few other finishing touch items. Outfit Not Found

Looking around she was very pleased with the results since her entire goal was to make it appear as though a complete room existed. Fuzzybottom had taken to hiding in the bottom of the satchel so she didn't know what he thought about it but she figured he was still pretty disgusted by the whole idea.

Cream decided to head outside and place a sign that said "Now open for business,Inquire within about your desires." She figured this should begin attracting attention before long and she was right,It was a mere 10 minutes before a lovely lady entered the room and saw Cream sprawled across the bed.

Cream sat up and strode over to the lovely lady,"How can I help you in your search for what your heart desires today my lady?" she inquired to the beautiful lady in front of her. "Hello there miss,My name is Lucille and I couldn't help but notice you were new to these parts. I was wondering if perhaps you might give a lady a good shoulder rub...I know it's not what you were likely expecting given your setup here but that's all I need,It's been a terribly long day." Cream was secretly pleased about this as she knew she could casually slip in some questions about lightning to perhaps gauge whether he had been seen or not. "I'd surely love to give you a shoulder rub and since your first to my cozy little corner I'd be obliged to offer it on the house as a thank you." cream replied to the lady

Cream gathered some essential oils and sat the lady down in front of her on the bed and began to rub Lucille's tense shoulders "My you are a worked up sort today,May I ask how the men are here?" It's just that I have worked several other areas you see and some were just plain cow's cream went on to explain to lucille. Lucille was a talker fortunately for Cream and just this little bit of prompting caused Lucille to talk about all sorts of things involving the men but not what she wanted to hear so she decided to be a bit more forward.

"I hope you don't mind me asking miss lucille but I was wondering if you'd heard of a man by the name of lightning?" she asked Lucille tensed up and then came her reply "Hmph! That pig was here at one point alright,Left a lot of ladies with bad tempers but as to where he is now is anyone's guess,To my knowledge he left already,Good riddance!" Cream rubbed her shoulders in a soothing manner and said "I kindly thank you for the information,If you hear of his return or if you could maybe let it known a lady friend is looking for him I would be much obliged" Lucille thanked cream for the excellent shoulder rub and before walking out turned to cream "I'm not sure what you have for interest in the guy but since you've been so kind I'll gladly pass the word along for you" With that she turned on her heel and disappeared out into the pleasure dome.

During the next few hours cream had several more customers but none knew the whereabouts of the infamous Lightning and only one more had seen him but it was a brief encounter,Feeling a little deflated she decided to call it a day business wise and head out to do a little sightseeing. Cream decided to pull on a snug fitted jacket before heading out just in case it was a little chilly then she grabbed a small purse and set out to see what the pleasure planet had to offer.

She saw all sorts of people there and she wondered how on earth she could even begin to try to search for the slightest sign of lightning amongst all these pleasure seekers. She figured she would do the smart thing and tack up some little notes that she knew might capture lightning's attention. After a while of browsing some shops and picking up some things she headed back to her barge and decided to call it a night. She knew she had done all she could for today,She would continue scouting the next few days and then head home to her friends but for now it was time to get some rest. Cream curled up with fuzzybottom at her side and drifted off into a restless sleep filled with images of Lightning.

With Rowan's permission, I'm reposting our submission. I forgot to add our map and I posted the unedited story of Jilly by mistake and Subeta would NOT let me edit my original post to fix this. I tried for over an hour last night with no luck of making it work(I gave up 45 mins after the deadline). I thought about erasing the post and reposting, but to be honest, I'm scared it would've messed the entire thing up so I've decided to just repost the entire thing here. Sorry Misfits :(

Intro To the Misfits Next Adventure

It was a gorgeous day. The sun was shining and the birds were chirping and flitting about Jenna's head. They sang to her in their happy little way. She was dressed in a fine, white silken gown and she had fragrant flowers in her hair. She felt an immense joy from deep inside as she took a deep breath. She was to be married to her beloved soon. She walked towards the golden arches that led into a green corridor of mossy walls. A soft, warm breeze caressed her face as she walked through. After walking a few yards an uneasy feeling came over her. She wasn't sure when, but the birds had stopped singing. She laughed out loud at her apprehension. The walls were most likely too narrow for the birds to fly through and so they most likely were still outside. The path took a turn and another passage led the way inward. Her strained smile left her and her pace began to quicken. She thought she heard a haughty laugh, but when she turned to look behind her, no one was there. She came to the end of the corridor and it split into two ways. She fought against the panic that threatened her and decided to turn left. How could she be lost? A few turns later she found herself surrounded by three walls... a dead end. She turned back, but this time panic gripped her by the throat and she started running. Jenna figured maybe she could retrace her steps back outside this maze, but all traces of her passing did not exist. She heard the laugh again as she took another turn towards another dead end. She cried out in frustration. Where was Leaf? Running again, she desperately tried to find a way out, or was it a way in? Finally she collapsed to the ground, crying. She was lost. She looked up to the sky and screamed in fear! A giant hand reached down and picked up the maze that Jenna was captured in and put it up on a high shelf. She heard the voice say, "It's okay Jenna, I'll keep you safe. My father will never know that you will be mine forever!"

Jenna woke up in a sweat. She felt her heart pounding in her chest. She then heard Leaf murmur in his sleep, "I'll protect you Jenna..." Jenna frowned. She knew he worried about her safety, but she also knew how to take care of herself. She wasn't some prize to be locked away and put on a shelf. The next morning the Misfits discussed their plans on how to find Lightning. However they noticed they were two members short. Where were Amdir and Leaf? Jenna looked around a bit puzzled and nervous as the others chatted.

"I'd like to explore Heaven's Kitchen" exclaimed Jilly. "I have an old friend there that works in one of the restaurants and he owes me a couple of recipes. Not to mention, he can probably help me find Lightning if that scoundrel is hiding there"

"MageBorough will be my destination" Anna piped up. "This is where my teacher is from and I've always wanted to see it."

Juana pointed to the medical facility on the tiny moon. "This intrigues me. Since my last adventure, I've been working on my inner warrior talents of stealth and cunning. Getting past a patrol sounds like a great test of nerve and wit. I would like this mission."

Leaf came to the group, holding the black rose.

Anna squealed. “Where did you get that thing??! I thought we got rid of them all last year!”

Leaf shook his head. “Amdir saved it. And it’s been doing strange things to her,” he said and then proceeded to explain to the rest of the group about their vagabond’s disappearances. “So, as I am in charge of the rose and getting Amdir safely back to us, I need to stay here,” Leaf decided. He looked at Jenna and added, “You can stay with me.”

Jenna looked confused, "Stay with you? Why would I do that? We have to find Lightning and Tanaka told us to split up! I would like to go to Creeque Alley. I am a bard you know."

"I can't let you go to some rogue place that's crawling with dangerous criminals! Are you insane?" Leaf exclaimed. “I won’t be there to protect you this time.”

Immediately the tension rose between the two of them. Their eyes met and each set their jaw with stubbornness and more than a hint of pride. It was clear to all watching that neither elf nor bard planned to back down.

Anna squeaked uncomfortably, "We are supposed to split up. What if Lightning is in Creeque Alley?"

Leaf scoffed, "Do you really think he's going to go to the most obvious place? I don't want Jenna to be needlessly put in danger if it can be avoided!"

Jenna was now furious. "What do you think I am… your delicate little trinket to put up on a shelf? I can take care of myself! I'm going to Creeque Alley and that's final!" She stormed off towards her flyer.

Before she was out of earshot Leaf said loudly, "Fine, then I might just take the rose with me after all and go to Sighon. I can work my charms with the locals and find that criminal."

Jenna hesitated mid stride and then continued to stomp off. She tried not to picture her elf flirting with other women, but she knew the way she felt when he looked at her in what she felt was his own special way. She held back the tears, trying not to think that he would be using that same look to some stranger.

The rest of the Misfits stood around in an uncomfortable stance. Juana broke the awkward silence by coughing, "Well I guess we best get going. Good luck everyone!"

The rest of them took the opportunity to excuse themselves. Leaf scowled. He regretted saying what he did, but he was even more irritated by Jenna's recklessness. He spotted Morrow on his way to his craft. "I want you to go with Jenna to Creeque Alley. Make sure that she doesn't get herself into any trouble. I'm counting on you."

The hair on the back of Morrow's neck stood up. His last statement almost bordered on a threat. He grunted at the elf and slipped off in the direction that Jenna had taken in her angry departure.

Leaf stomped back up to his room and dug through his clothes. He then raided one of the extra closets in the Goose. But his heart wasn’t in it. Deep down, he knew that he wasn’t going to Sighon and that it had been anger and reflex to snap out the comment to Jenna. A part of him knew that she could take care of herself, after all she’d done it long before they had met, but another part, namely his heart, wanted her close and safe. Throwing aside the latest attempt at an outfit, the elf headed for the door, determined to talk to his bard and make things right. It was then that he heard the unearthly keening and clapping his hands to his sensitive ears, ran downstairs in time to discover the source of it. A death storm! He’d heard of such things as an elfling when the children told each other scary stories, but he’d never thought to witness one. A quick scan of the room showed that Jenna wasn’t present and his heart began to pound. Then he spotted his lovely bard…leaving the building. Leaf stretched out a hand to her, silently begging her to look around for him, but she didn’t. The call to her died in his throat. She didn’t care. She had her mission and that was foremost in her mind, the elf thought to himself. Pride and hurt had him spinning on his heel. Fine. He’d stay here. Amdir would need him. And considering the sudden hustle of Ms. Miranda and Ertrude forming an infirmary, his skills with herbs and healing might come in handy as well. Jenna would have her freedom and he would have…whatever life would be without her. Biting his lip at the sound of the ship taking off, Leaf’s hand strayed to his neck and he clasped the necklace there. “Farewell, my sweet bard. May the gods keep you safe,” he whispered before going to offer his assistance to the ladies.

(OOC: If it doesn't seem clear by this story, , our reluctant adventurer could not join us this week due to RL. Also had no time this week to join us due to a new job, involvement in a play and her son's college adventure, she had to bow out as well.) [spoiler=The Companions Enjoy Their Adventure]The Misfits called their companions to them and explained their mission. Jenna tied the pipes into a bundle and gave them to Kwixis, her dragon, to carry. "Now don't lose these! They will protect you once you enter the roots of the tree." She stroked him behind his ear frill. He purred like a giant kitten. "Be careful, and look after the others." The dragon nodded and turned to the other three that planned to travel with him.

Jilly petted Salem and told him to come back to her soon. Salem just yawned lazily and said, "You don't have to worry, this mission is a piece of cake." And with that, he slinked off.

"Wait for me!" cried Little Al in his squeaky voice. The blob creature didn't want to be left behind and so he scurried off in the direction of the others. Anna giggled at her little friend.

Juana watched Flint fly away. The tiny sprite didn't say much, but he was flashing excitedly at the prospect of an adventure.

The Misfit’s companions headed in the direction of the barge along with the other companions. Lappy was leading the way, bounding over hills and running past the trees. His tongue hung out the side of his mouth as he ran. Grumpus, OneTwo and Twofer tried to keep up. Salem appeared aloof that there were other felines running about, but inside he was happy to finally have a chance to be around others like him. Kwixis noticed that Little Al was having trouble keeping up, so he allowed the blob to hitch a ride on his back. Flint had no trouble keeping up at all.

Once they reached the shoreline, they found the Spirit Barge. The Keeper was a beautiful maiden with pale skin that was almost translucent. Her hair was white like snow and her eyes were a watery blue. She wore a black cloak that covered her from head to foot. A faint smile turned on her lips when she saw all the creatures approach. "Welcome friends. What brings you to my barge?"

Lappy was the first to answer, "We would like safe passage to the Shriveled Forest please!" The rest of the companions nodded in agreement.

The Keeper’s smile faded quickly. "Are you sure that's wise? Why would such lovely creatures wish to travel to such an evil place?"

Salem sauntered forward, "We are on a quest to help our masters defeat the evil that threatens us all."

Twofer added, "Please just help us. If you don't, all will be lost and the Unseelie will prevail." The Keeper studied the companions. "I only let those pass that know my name! If you speak it, then all of you will be allowed to come aboard."

The companions looked at each other. Surely someone could figure out her name.

Little Al jumped off Kwixis. "Excuse me, I know I may only be a little blob, but my master is a mage and she reads many books. Sometimes she lets me read as well. I've picked up quite a few random facts over the years, including ones about myths."

Grumpus huffed at the little blob, "Well let's have it already! Time waits for no one!"

The blob was not to be bullied into telling the answer right away. He decided to show off his knowledge and give everyone a lesson on this particular myth. "A maiden and her husband, who was King Amphion, had fourteen children. She bragged about her seven sons and seven daughters and made the fatal mistake of mocking Leto, who only had two children, Apollo and Artemis. So Apollo killed the seven sons and Artemis killed the seven daughters. She fled to Mt. Siplyon in Asia Minor. There she was turned to stone by Zeus and from the rock formed a stream (the Achelous) from her ceaseless tears. She became the symbol of eternal mourning. Her name was Niobe."

The Keeper smiled at the little blob, "You are correct, my friend. Come all, you may board."

The companions boarded the barge and they were taken to the forest. Once there, they had no trouble finding the tree. It was the largest one there and the tree was so twisted and mangled, it was no wonder they called it TwistDeath. A very large root extended out towards them, almost as if it dared them to enter.

Kwixis took out the pipes and laid them out. They started with pipe as their first one through which they would enter. He manipulated the pipe so that it would push into the root. The magical pipe expanded so that he could walk right in.

"Remember, we want to go left, not right!" Salem mewed.

Kwixis turned left and OneTwo came to him with the next pipe, . He pushed that one deeper into the root and it magically expanded and attached to the first pipe. Flint flew ahead and flashed slowly. He could see through the clear parts, but he didn't see anything but rocks at this point.

Twofer brought the next pipe piece to Kwixis and he pushed into the root. This one split again to go either straight or left.

Little Al piped up, "I think we should go left again."

The companions turn left and come to an exit. Salem slunk ahead slowly. "I'm probably the best one to check it out, since I'm black and I can see pretty well in the darkness." He slowly poked his head out of the pipe and scanned the area. He quickly pulled back in. "No, we cannot leave this way. There are too many Unseelie guards around. I think we're too close to an encampment. We should keep going and see if we can get further away so we are not detected. Remember, we are not to engage in combat."

So the companions continued to push the pipes into the root. Next was , then 12.

Grumpus was getting impatient, "We need to get out and see what is going on!"

Salem noted that they were at another exit pipe. "Well, let's check this one out." He stuck his head outside again. This time he came back and told the companions, "We are good, the coast is clear."

They all looked at Flint, who flickered apprehensively. Lappy stated the obvious. "We can't let him go outside. He will give us away in a second."

"Well then, why don't we have Kwixis push pipe in next so he can stay in there, watch through the clear parts, and alert us with the comm if he spots danger?" suggested OneTwo. The rest of the companions nodded. So Kwixis got to work and added the pipe along with .

Little Al decided to stay with Flint and be a second pair of eyes to watch out while the others snuck out.

Salem slinked slowly and low to the ground. His eyes were focused on everything around him. Lappy had his nose to the ground and he quietly sniffed, looking for any clues that could be useful. OneTwo and Twofer used their superior hearing to try and listen for any talk from the encampment while Kwixis and Grumpus watched behind them.

Inside the pipe, Flint was flying from one window to the next. Little Al was grumbling, "I wish I was out there helping. So what if I'm a bright green? I can thin myself out and look like a puddle of goo if someone comes along." Flint noticed movement and began to flash red, but the blob wasn't paying much attention.

The other companions outside weren't aware of the movement immediately. But suddenly they heard footsteps coming towards them. Guards! Kwixis gave a low hiss and motioned for everyone to come to him. All of the companions quickly ran to the dragon and he managed to pull them all into himself, curl up with his wings sheltering over them, and made himself appear like a large boulder.

The guards came around the tree, they were talking. "I hope they give the order to attack soon, we are running low on supplies and the men are getting restless."

"I agree. Already I've had to break up a skirmish over the theft of a dagger. We need to move soon!"

"Well my sword thirsts for fresh blood. Perhaps it will drain the life of a few Seelie scum by days end."

The footsteps never slowed and they got fainter as the guards walked towards the encampment. Lappy wagged his tail, "I think they're gone Kwixis! Let's get back to the roots and get out of here!"

They all headed b

I edited our team RP to include the ending of Witch's part like we discussed via smail, but it kept giving me a fatal error when I tried to ping you to the specific post to let you know it had been taken care of :( Thank you very, very much for helping me (and my fat fingers!) fix this :)

Starter discussion

"Oh I do hope our companions will be okay out there," TerrenaAnimula worries.

"Mine is tough!" Gryffindor exclaims. "Has to be with moving about from town to town with me."

"They will be fine," Lovecraft assures her. "After all they survived last year when they went off on their own."

Biting her lip nervously, TerrenaAnimula admits that they all DID survive. Kinda like how the Silver Legends themselves made it through.

"Lets go find us some Pork Chop!" Witchy exclaims. "Enough worrying. I also gave my little guy some rainbow to help mark the way they went. Perfectly fine."

"And they will be perfectly hungry," Fresh smiles. "Yes lets figure out which way we all need to head to scout for this air quotes Pork Chop is located."

"We have a choice of six locations," Lovecraft says and reads them each off, "Lone Rock, Sighon, Heaven's Kitchen, Creeque Alley, MageBorough, and the Catchment."

"I wonder if Gordon Ramsey's evil twin is in Heaven's Kitchen?" Fresh ponders.

"Who?" Gryffindor asks confused.

"I wouldn't mind some of Gordon Ramsey's pork chop," Witchy grins widely.

"Oh look!" Lovecraft says reading the fine print, "If due to illness or other things members of a team may go to the Ms Miranda's Backroom Ward if they suffer the curse of the deathstrom."

"I think I am feeling a bit ill," says TerrenaAnimula.

"Me too," says Gryffindor.

"I wanted to go there!" exclaims Witchy.

"What if ALL of Silver Legends goes," says Lovecraft. "I mean it would be an US thing to do."

"Think we are suppose to inform GreenRowan of this BEFORE," Fresh says as all the Legends turn and look towards the screen for a moment.

"FINE!" TerrenaAnimula glares "I guess we all split up and go to each of these places looking for this Lightening guy."

Witchy sits down and puffs on some smoke. "Let me see the descriptions of these places." Lovecraft hands over the sheet of paper describing each land to Witchy who swiftly tears it up and tosses it aside.

"That's littering!" TerrenaAnimula quickly gathers up the shredded paper and tries to put some of the pieces back together. "I am sure some of these places are more designed for certain ones of us."

"Okay, lets get it over with," Lovecraft says. "Quicker we find and kill this guy the faster we get home."

"NO!" Fresh yells at her. "We aren't KILLING HIM!. Simply finding. No killing!!! Whichever one of us finds him, we contact the others and let them know so we can figure out how to capture him. He is slippery."

"As if he is covered in grease," Gryffindor adds.

The Legends quickly discuss which direction they are to take off in as individuals and separate. Dressing for the land they are going to be visiting to blend in and not give Lightening a reason to escape for having been found.

Witchy on Mageborough...

Arriving on Mageborough in her little scoot boot zoomer (high octane, large engines, GREAT living/sleeping area :controllers included for driving right from your bed: fits into any cargo bay, or attaches to side of larger ship, easy peesy. Great for those that need that auto-pilot home), Witchy dresses to impress. Knowing how the clans fight among themselves, she's hoping to be able to slip in and slip out, before any one really knows she's there. Those clans...so hoity toity.

Taking the first free portal to the out skirts of Illusion park, she figures she'll start with some of the entertainers that hang around that area, and work herself towards the Alley.

Surely, if Lightning is here, he would be hiding in the Alley.

Carrying her mini cauldron, so all could see, (and hopefully not pay any attention to her) She starts browsing the entertainers.

Dancers and Musicians and card sharks tricks...fire eaters, vendors selling munchies, and drinks, and the smoke of a thousand Mage's working at their fires, hawking the potions of "Long Life", "Beauty" and "Charisma" among much other "help".

As she wanders from stall to stall, showing the pictures of Lightning, who every one seems to recognize, but all in connection to his music and band, she notices one of the clan members looking at a selection of empty potion bottles. As they turn to look at a different selection, Witchy notices how much this particular mage, happens to look like Lightning.

Not exactly like him, but as if he might be related. The resemblance was just to much to be coincidence.

Deciding to take a chance (and having been breathing the different 'flavors' of the smoke the potions have been creating) Witch goes over to look at the bottles also.

Wandering closer and closer to the Mage, Witchy turns and bumps into him... "Oh, Do excuse me, might mage, how clumsy of me. I hope that you are alright?" she looks at him and bats her eye lashes.

Looking down his (so he thinks) aristocratic nose, and thinking..."ahhh, another novice trying to worm they're way into the clan" He smiles at her, and leers..."No problem, pretty lady, you may bump into me any time."

Grinning broadly up at him, she says, "Oh good, in that case, could you tell me about your relation with Lightning, and where he might be right now?"

Surprise flickering across his face, he quickly masks it, and asks "What? What are you talking about? I have no idea who this Lightning you ask about, is."

"How amusing" says Witchy "Considering that it seems EVERY ONE knows about Lightning, but YOU?"

With those words, the Mage turns and starts running in the direction of the portal.

Witchy, prepared (yes, for ONCE) for some sort of reaction, threw her hand in the air, and let lose with a handful of Lightshow Sulphurous Powder.

The crowd quickly backed away, all grabbing there noses and pinching them shut, as the Mage stumbled, caught his balance, threw his hand over his nose and mouth, and kept on running.

She then threw a handful of Anyu Sleeping Powder, and the first 7 people on the left side, immediately collapsed, sound asleep. Witchy mumbles "Hmmm, I never could throw properly" and chases after, screaming at the Mage, "HALT! I DON'T DO RUNNING!"

But of course, the Mage continued pushing people aside, screaming acerbic remarks at people still in his way.

Getting to the portal, and pushing an ederly couple and the portal handler out of the way, he changes the co-ordianates and steps into the portal. Disappearing.

"Oh Poohpot" says Witchys, (while bent over double, gasping for breath...really, I'm SURE it's in my contract, I DO NOT run!) Standing up, the witch gently pushes her way to the front of the crowd, grabs the portal master by the arm, as he's trying to get the controls set to where they are suppose to be, and asks "WHERE?! Where did he go?!"

Glancing at her, and jerking his arm out of her hold, he goes back to his dials and levers..."The Air Field, he went to the air field, now leave me alone, he's put us 4 minutes behind!"

Quickly witchy turns, and heads towards a corner of a building, where there seems to be either an alley....

"I can't wait around for the portal to open back up, I've got to get back to the air field now...he's either going to jump a flight and go to Lightning, or Lightning is at the air field himself. Either way, I've GOT to get there QUICK." with that, she runs, not into an alley, but to a corner of 2 buildings that are partically touching. "No problem" thinks witchy, as long as no one is around to inturrupt me. Looking and seeing that, that was indeed the case, witchy reaches into her pouch, and pulls out a handful of power. Only this didn't look like the last powder she used. This one looks like her regular rainbow powder.

Spreading it in a circle around her, she takes out her pipe, and starts puffing away. Puff Puff Puff the air around her, and only inside the circle, seems, to any one who was looking, to start to glitter, then it was like looking through a prism. A prism of rainbow glass. Then she was gone.

Of course. The only one who had been looking, was a small kitty that was hiding in the tiny spot between the building.

Fresh on Heaven's Kitchen

"I CALL HEAVEN'S KITCHEN!" yells Fresh.

"But, can you even cook?" TerrenaAnimula asks.

"Pfft, I'm sure I can throw something together. How hard can it be?"

"I don't know about this," Lovecraft says, "Fresh.. alone in a world of delicious food? We may never see him again!"

"Don't worry, I'm almost positive that I'll be back." Fresh reassures the group. "Besides, everything I need to know I can learn from these books, Yummy Tasty Book of Baking and Baking Secrets."

Before anyone could say a word, Fresh was out the door.

-------------------------

Before the flyer landed on Heaven's Kitchen, Fresh could already smell the delicious food below. As he stepped out, the overwhelming combination of sweet and savory foods attacked his senses and he began to drool slightly.

"Mmmm, everything around here smells so good!" He said to himself, "maybe Lovecraft was right."

Fresh wandered around for a while, checking out all the exotic foods and of course trying some! That's when it hit him.. there was cake near by, lots of cake.. lots of delicious cake! He sniffed the air and began following the sweet scents. He was getting close, "just around the corner.." he thought to himself.

BAM! Fresh walked right into a very tall and brutish woman wearing an apron that was smeared with, what Fresh had hoped was, some sort of red berry jam. "Watch where you're going pipsqueak!" She spoke angrily.

"Sorry, I will." Fresh said, trying to get away quickly.

"You, Pipsqueak! I know most around here, but I don't know you. What are you doing here?"

"Me? I.. uhh.."

She looks at him suspiciously.

"... I want to be a chef! I have a cake recipe I'd like to share with some experts, maybe get some tips? You know.."

"You don't look like a chef," she raises an eyebrow, "but no matter.. cakes aren't my thing. Around the corner is the best bakery in town, perhaps they will be of help."

"Uh, thanks." He says, relieved.

"Just stay out of my way!" She added, already walking away.

-------------------------

Outfit Not Found Fresh entered the bakery and could not believe his eyes. Magnificient cookies, pastries and of course cakes as far as he could see. Some of them looked familiar, some looked totally inedible and some were quite... "exotic."

"Hello!" a soft voice called from behind the counter. "Can I help you?"

"I LOVE CAKE!" Fresh yelled. "Umm, I mean.. yes, Hello."

The girl giggled as she popped up from behind the counter. "Well, we've got cake. Any particular kind?"

"Huh?" Fresh caught himself drooling over the delicacies surrounding him. "Yes, actually I've been working on my own recipe but it seems to be missing something, I thought maybe you could help?"

"Well, I don't make it a habit of giving out secrets.. but it's slow today so perhaps I can help out. Why don't you come out back and show me what you've got so far."

Fresh entered the baking around and began looking over the shelves filled with various ingredients. He grabbed a Bag of Pure Flour and a Bag of Sugar, dumping some of each into a nearby bowl. He then mixed in some Honey Butter, "I didn't see any eggs, do you have some?"

"Oh yes, right here." She replies, handing Fresh a Carton of Brown Eggs.

"Thanks ... these are chicken eggs, right?"

"Sure!" She said, not convincing Fresh.

"Okay, and now the last special ingrediant!" Fresh pulls a Rainbow Essence from his pocket and breaks it open, quickly mixing the essence with the cake batter. "Now just let it bake and you'll have a wonderful Rainbow Cake! If you are feeding a more adult crowd you can replace the Rainbow Essence with some dehydrated Rainbow Leaf to make a Super Happy Rainbow Cake!" he said, winking.

"Well you've got a pretty standard human cake there, but I might suggest adding some Get Mugged Vanilla Syrup or perhaps some group up Whole Vanilla Beans. Plus, I'm pretty sure Rainbow Essence is not edible so I'd recommend some various colored berries to add the colors, plus it will add some good flavors."

Fresh and the baker then began a new batch will the altered ingrediants.

"I wish you had come yesterday with this Super Happy Rainbow Cake recipe, just this morning Lightning of Pale Lightning and the Stormboys was here looking for something like this."

Fresh snaps back to reality, Oh yeah.. Lightning!. "Lightning came here? Where'd he go?!"

"I don't know, came to get some cookies and supplies.. looks like he was getting ready for a trip."

"Hmm, interesting. Well, thanks for the help.. gotta go!" Fresh said as he headed out the door, leaving the baker quite confused.

-------------------------

Fresh wandered a bit more, asking others if they had seen Lightning. The general consensus was that he had been seen packing up various foods but no one knew where he was going. Fresh headed back to the skyport just in time to hear someone say they had just seen Lightning heading off the planet.

[spoiler=Terrena on LoneRock...]

Terrena deeply sighs in her respirator as she steps off the Caroline onto land of the Lone Rock. She looks around and cannot figure out why she was told to come here.

She reaches into her pack and pulls out a small doll, which oddly resembles Fresh, and a long headpin and stabs it repeated in the stomach area all the while muttering, "This better work after all the rainbow I gave Witchy...if it doesn't, hopefully this isn't hurting someone else on my team...although if it is Witchy it is hurting, it is her own fault... I would have preferred to go to Heaven's Kitchen. Him and his cake he shouldn't have...I can make a mean green tea muffin." She stabs the doll a few more times before putting the doll with the headpin stabbed right through the stomach back into her pack. "Maybe I'll make some muffins after this adventure is over."

She begins to take in more of her surroundings and notices the giant lizards which are farther out. Some which are attacking each other while others just scurry on along keeping to themselves. "Such a dismal place. Those lizards need a better way of life. This isn't a way to live!"

She heads further on out closer to the lizards but still keeping her distance. She notices abandoned town to the west of her with an outpost to the west of her. Oddly enough, there is a faint light shining from the outpost tower. "That has got to be a sucky job, even for a paid mercenary," she says to herself. "I guess I better head over there to see if someone really is there and if they may know something about Lightning."

Terrena heads towards the outpost all the while hiding behind large chunks of rocks just in case a giant lizard happens to see her. After the stories she’s heard about them, she isn’t so sure she could talk sense into one and may have to attack it if having to confront one.

She’s not that far away from the outpost tower when she hears this strange crying out sound. Being who she is, she has to investigate the noise. The sound came from a pile of rock and dust rubble beside a gigantic bolder. “Aww, you poor thing!” she exclaims as she reaches to help pull of the rocks on top of a baby giant lizard that looks to be the size of her forearm (including its tail). The baby hisses and cries out in pain as she tries to help it. “It’s okay, I’m not going to hurt you. I’m trying to help you. Now cut that out,” she says as it starts snapping at her while she’s trying to inspect to see if the baby giant lizard is truly hurt or will be okay.

Unfortunately Terrena notices that the lizard’s leg is broken. “I want to help you, you silly thing!” She tries to get closer but the baby lizard doesn’t really want anything to do with her. “Well…” she sits on her knees while pulling her pack in front of her and starts to dig around. “Let’s see if I don’t have anything to will help you corpor