Just as everyone had finished setting up their gear in the dining room, a loud noise nearby catches the group's attention. A plate that had been perfectly seated upon the table only moments prior, now lay shattered in pieces against the floor.

Those nearest to the table held their hands up innocently, and as you look around, you realize none of them were close enough to the table to have accidentally knocked the dish down into the floor. 

Endehark

	"Look!"

 

Your guide calls out suddenly, and gestures towards the cracked plate once more. About a foot away, two small burning embers lightly char the tile's surface, and a noise, like laughter, can be heard from seemingly out of nowhere. You notice a few people in your group begin to bristle, with fear or excitement you cannot tell.

   But before anyone has a chance to say anything more, the footsteps begin to move, taking off at an astonishing pace away from the group, and back into the kitchen. 

Endehark

	"Follow it! And have your cameras ready."

 

  Endehark shouts and races off after the burning trail, camera in hand, while you and the rest of your group rush to grab their things and keep up. 

As everyone makes their way into the kitchen, it quickly becomes apparent that this house has a cellar, and the ominous fiery trail that had so suddenly appeared, leads right down the stairs into it... 

While everyone stops to examine the pitch black, descending flight of stairs, Endehark instead simply flicks on a light at the front of their camera. Looking back at the group once with a calm smile, they steadily begin to climb down into the darkness. The bravest of your group soon begin to follow, and slowly the rest trail along behind. The stairs are very old, and they creak loudly under even the softest of footsteps.

Whatever it was that had absconded down here... is sure to know that you are coming.

★ Species

Browbirds, Kitbulls, Painted Satyr

★ Stargold Bonuses:
+ List out all bonuses that apply to your entry
+ Include any items you use and companion if you have one

★ If Stargold Bonus calculations are off...
+ Approve anyway with adjusted bonus (even if lower)
-OR-
+ Please send back so I can edit
(if no option is given we will send back)

★ Species

Browbirds, Kitbulls, Painted Satyr

NO FORM NEEDED!

★ Species

Browbirds, Kitbulls, Painted Satyr

Include which reward you chose!

★ Species

Browbirds, Kitbulls, Painted Satyr

Include which reward you chose!

★ Species

Browbirds, Kitbulls, Painted Satyr

Include which reward you chose!

★ Species

Browbirds, Kitbulls, Painted Satyr

★ Faction: 
+ Which faction are you part of? (sun, eclipse, or eyes)

You are stopped by a door.

It is a  massive door that spans the height of the cave. On it, four symbols glow, each one matching the color of the lights from before.  The air is tense with magical energy that radiates from what lies beyond this obstacle.

Vinta steps forward, rummaging through their belongings and pulling forth a particular document covered in notes that was wedged between papers and scrolls. They are silent, doing a quick once over before looking back towards the door. With arms outstretched they channel a spell that appears arcane in nature, sparking forth from their fingertips and striking across the central mechanism of the great door. As the magic interacts with the final seal the symbols glow brighter, their color spilling out onto the icy crystal stones of the cavern corridor. The final lock clicks and turns, allowing the door to open and reveal what lies on the other side.

The sight before you is a vast room that's so expansive there are clouds flowing across the ceiling and ground. The walls and floors are made of a shiny material that resembles the iridescence of a dark pearl, reflecting the brilliant light of the massive rotating ball of energy at the center in a vibrant display. The core itself looks akin to a tiny floating sun, and despite how bright it is the warmth you feel from it isn't scorching. Instead, it is a pleasant heat that will melt away the snow stuck to your clothing should you get closer.

With that in mind, the core does not seem to generate enough heat to entirely rid this place of ice. This is evident from the amounts of frost gathered in large chunks near the edges of the room and around the piles of debris that appear to be old buildings. While ruins had been mentioned by Vinta previously, you did not expect to find them in a place so close in proximity to the core.

Along with the scattered rubble and ruins from what you guess were ancient civilizations, there are several other things of note in this space. The remains themselves are covered in intricate patterns and details, ones you find strikingly similar to the beacons but with a more fierce and jagged look to them. You assume they must have been built long before the school was even a thought and as tens of thousands of years passed they slowly wore away until they reached this pitiful state. There are spires that still cling to the ceiling above, but with so many collapsed on the ground you do feel uneasy thinking of the potential of one falling onto the group while you are all here.

There is also a massive hole at the center of the room underneath the area that the core seems to be effortlessly suspended. If one were to brave glancing over the side, there is nothing but darkness that gives way into the starry skies that surround Aldebast. It's a sheer drop - best to steer clear of it.

You also notice that around the core itself there are a number of floating objects, neatly aligned and slowly rotating even though nothing seems to be keeping them in place. What are those?

As you ponder these things of note, Vinta breaks off from the group and makes their way over to something that hadn't caught your attention earlier. There appears to be a small console closer to the center of the room which the Archmage wastes no time venturing towards. As they approach, a sudden tremor nearly knocks them and several others off their feet. Vinta pauses, their stance seeming more alert than you've probably seen them look this entire journey. When it settles they begin to turn in a circle slowly as if to try and find what in the room might have caused it. The group glances around as well, clearly confused by the ground shaking for seemingly no reason.

A few moments pass before the flames of the core appear to spark and sputter in a manner violent in comparison to how it had been before. Tension fills the air and the room falls quiet, most of the adventurers holding their breath in a nervous anticipation.

The silence is shattered as one massive, armored hand bursts forth from the ice covering a large pile of ruins. A second hand soon follows. Then a third. Then a fourth. Two of these hands wield shimmering poleaxes, made of a deep cyan ice that seems to stand out in comparison to all the ice you've seen so far (and you've seen quite a bit of ice on this venture). Once the arms have fully surfaced, an enormous ironclad body forces itself upward from its icy prison. The construct, which appears extremely humanlike in nature, stands to its full towering height and begins to approach the crowd of adventurers.

The revitalization of this construct seems to have disturbed other things that were once trapped in the frozen grips of slumber as well. Countless tiny ice beasts stir and scuttle out from the shadows to fight alongside the armored monster, and some even climb onto it and nestle themselves in any openings available between the metal plates.

While some may be inclined to try reasoning with something so humanlike, attempting to would prove futile. It is a mindless defense mechanism, designed solely to protect the core from any it would deem intruders. Defeating it is the only way forward.

Despite their own fears, Vinta is the first to take a step towards it. They lift a hand dramatically, flipping open their enchanted tome of aspects and causing it to grow brightly at the flick of their fingers. Their eyes, normally consumed with exhaustion, now burn with a ferocity that almost seems out of character for them.

They absolutely refuse to leave such an important job undone after coming this far.

Vinta

The volume of their voice is enough to attract the creatures attention, it causes a ripple in the ground the living armor lumbers forward. With the wave of its hands a thick sheet of sleet and frost shoot outwards, quickly biting away the group's recently gained warmth.

Vinta

★ Species

Browbirds, Kitbulls, Painted Satyr

★ Stargold Bonuses:
+ List out all bonuses that apply to your entry
+ Include any items you use and companion if you have one

★ If Stargold Bonus calculations are off...
+ Approve anyway with adjusted bonus (even if lower)
-OR-
+ Please send back so I can edit
(if no option is given we will send back)

★ Prequisite
+ Please include a link to your approved part 2 prompt

★ Item Reward Choice:
+ Pick one of the trait items

Vinta

Vinta has just concluded thier slightly confusing, caffiene-powered explanation of the route and tasks assigned to each person participating in tonight's expedition.  The entire time they kept nervously looking at everyone and glancing towards Aventus, who stood stoic near the front of the crowd.

The large, magically projected map they had conjured to aid in their explanation dissipates, leaving everyone muttering to themselves about the plan. Despite opening the floor to additional inquries, Vinta moves on without allowing anyone to actually ask them.

While all in attendance stand at the edge of Snowstar Village awaiting the signal of departure, some townspeople have gathered as well to see the group off. The people that call this town home are likely just as relieved as the school's staff to see this whole thing taken care of - namely the ice monsters.

Those who are prepared for the core expedition are bundled beneath many layers of warm cloaks, coats, and sweaters while others make use of their aspects or enchanted items to stave off the sting of the icy Aldebast winds.

When Vinta takes his place at the front of the group, he casts a simple spell that causes the sound of a chime to ring out for all to hear. It's the signal to finally depart.

The journey isn't easy, and it will take a lot of effort to keep up with the group. The wind and snow pick up and as you venture further from town the weather continues to worsen. You wonder if there might be a threat of a blizzard... Vinta hadn't mentioned such a thing but it does seem like the weather on this moon is wildly unpredictable. Breaks will be taken frequently to make sure everyone is warm and has enough energy to keep going.

While there is a loose path to be followed, much of it has been covered by snow so a lot of time is spent trudging through hefty piles it. It's difficult, and there may even be times where you consider giving up and heading back, but still you push on. After what feels like a few hours you see a strange glow in the distance and as you approach you find yourself at a massive ancient tower surrounded by ice and snow.

Your hair stands on end, you have the feeling of being watched. For an instant you spot something moving in the distance... Something big. What could be waiting for you at this tower?

★ Species

Browbirds, Kitbulls, Painted Satyr

★ Stargold Bonuses:
+ List out all bonuses that apply to your entry
+ Include any items you use and companion if you have one

★ If Stargold Bonus calculations are off...
+ Approve anyway with adjusted bonus (even if lower)
-OR-
+ Please send back so I can edit
(if no option is given we will send back)

★ Prequisite
+ Sidequest or apparel?
If sidequest please includ an onsite link
+ Please include a link to your approved part 1 prompt

★ Item Reward Choice:
+ Include the area you explored here
+ Which item did you choose (crystal ice or solar globe)?

Vinta digs through the stack of papers and books piled atop their desk, nearly causing an avalanche of stationary as they pull out a scroll case buried beneath the mess. After a few awkward moments of Vinta frantically using a spell to halt the collapse of their hoard they turn to you as if nothing happened. They extend their hand, offering the case to you.

Vinta

Vinta

Vinta

Vinta

Vinta

Angea gives you a little wave and a smile as you head out of the office, the last thing you hear as you shut the door behind you is Vinta listing off everything they want her to do. Stepping into the hall makes you realizes just how stuffy it was in there, what a breath of fresh air!

Now it's time to get to work.

★ Species

Browbirds, Kitbulls, Painted Satyr

★ Stargold Bonuses:
+ List out all bonuses that apply to your entry
+ Include any items you use and companion if you have one

★ If Stargold Bonus calculations are off...
+ Approve anyway with adjusted bonus (even if lower)
-OR-
+ Please send back so I can edit
(if no option is given we will send back)

★ Item Reward Choice:
+ Which item did you choose?

Following the trail left in the beast's wake, Cteno takes those with more experience towards the inner city known as Inkwell. The destination isn't the city itself, but rather the bottom of the caverns in which the city is carved into. Buildings hang down from the ceiling much like they do in the more vibrant outdoors of the city of ink, but the floor is covered in sharp shiny thorns that look as if they're made of tar. The outer edges are bordered by tall cliffs and at the center there is a vast, onyx wetland of bubbling pitch-black puddles.

Light from torches, flashlights, lamps, and even candles are swallowed up by the air and cannot penetrate as far as one might expect. Everyone stays close together to have an easier time seeing as larger groupings of lights seem to dampen the odd effect. Another peculiar feature of this place is that despite the massive size of the main chamber, there is a distinct lack of sound. Voices do not echo and it is disturbingly silent as most sound is seemingly swallowed up by the darkness. 

Cteno speaks the entire way there, however without a clear translator there are few that can understand them. Their stressed expressions the the only thing the others have to go off of, unintentionally causing some uneasiness from a large portion of the crowd.

Cteno

	[To think this would happen today of all days. The day we must make a good first impression... He is truly terrible at this.]

 

Cteno

	[Yet I am expected to do my job in such conditions. Truly unacceptable! All of this, unacceptable! We will deal with this at once! And yet I lack the help of Angea now, though it was necessary that she lead the other group, yes.]

 

Cteno

	[Alright then, vistors. Listen to me and listen well. You are those that were reccomended as the most accomplished so I trust that you can handle yourself in more dangerous situations. However, I would not say that this is life or death... Simply a misunderstanding of sorts.]

 

Cteno

	[This creature we're searching for is known as a Dalon, er... Well. Part of one. They are capable of causing quite a lot of havoc, as you have seen. However, I do ask that you find a way to stop its rampage without destroying it, yes. That should be acceptable, yes?]

 

There are many smaller branching paths dotting the sides of the cave that would likely be easy to get lost in. Cteno seems to instinctually know where to go and will take everyone down a particularly gooey tunnel. After only a few moments of walking, the kitbull freezes and makes a small gesture with their tail indicating that something is nearby.

Looking up, a long, serpentine creature can be seen gripping onto the wall. It's dark, sleek body blends in perfectly to the surroundings and appears significantly smaller than before, though still quite dangerous. 

Each of its many eyes fixate on different members of the crowd, watching every movement carefully as it sits perfectly in an attempt to wait for the best moment to strike. As more adventurers step closer with lights in hand the animal recoils, slithering down from its resting place and nearly knocking the onlookers over in fright. The living shadow delves further into the maze of tunnels and corridors, prompting only the bravest to follow.

Further out from town, the landscape changes dramatically with  an expanse of red clover fields stretching out to the edges of the island.

A particular defining landmark is the large structure that towers above the surrounding trees and hills. Atop it a bright orb glows, lighting the fields and allowing everyone to see easily. The light also pierces the void just beyond the cliffs in a manner that mimics the functioning of a lighthouse. From a distance it appeared as nothing more than a dark monolith standing against the distorted sky, but upon closer inspection there are candles resting beside piles of flowers, gemstones, and stray pieces of stargold. All of it is left untouched, though none resemble the various trinkets that were taken by the little ink creatures. Inspecting the dark pillar itself will reveal many names carved into the sleek stonework. 

Angea looks quite entranced by it, her mind racing wondering about what exactly it could be.  She quickly snaps out of it, however, reminding herself that there are more important matters at hand.

Angea

	"Wow... What a place. In all my years on the seas I've never seen anything quite like it. At first I was a bit bummed we got the easy job, but honestly I wouldn't want to trade this view for anything."

 

Angea

	"Anyway! We can use this pillar here as a meeting spot in case anyone gets lost, it seems like the light shines on most of the plains. So, what we're here to do is to catch as many of those blobby things as we can. Be sure to work together everyone."

 

Angea takes some time to pass out a few spare bottles she had with her to (hopefully) aid in capturing some of the ink animals. She seems to be doing alright despite what happened just a little while ago - a good adventurer stays calm in the face of danger after all!

The group gradually disperses across the crimson-colored wilderness to begin the hunt.

★ Species

Browbirds, Kitbulls, Painted Satyr

★ Part 1
+ link to your approved part 1 prompt

★ Stargold Bonuses:
+ List out all bonuses that apply to your entry
+ Include any items you use and companion if you have one

★ If Stargold Bonus calculations are off...
+ Approve anyway with adjusted bonus (even if lower)
-OR-
+ Please send back so I can edit
(if no option is given we will send back)

★ Item Reward Choice:
+ Which item did you choose?

Cteno walks several steps but then stops again almost immediately at a simple, small monument with text engraved into it and candles placed around its base. They bow their head before it and gesture towards it urging others to show respect as they pass.

Glancing over the text, this small stone structure is dedicated to a deity who created this city as a safe haven for void users thousands of years ago, and who sustains the barrier that protects it from the terrifying abyss that surrounds it. The deity is referred to as "god of ink". It seems to be some sort of "thank you" letter from the people who live here.

Cteno

	[Perhaps, perhaps if you're lucky. You may meet the deity yourself during your time here, yes? But that's rare, very rare. It may just be a myth and legend, hm? ]

 

A closer look at the monument there seems to be something behind it…  Something moving. Something that stares back. And just like that is vanishes with a strange splash leaving small traces of dark liquid behind. It almost looked like a kettlecat but...?

Cteno

	[...]

 

Cteno

	[Yes yes, far too much to see for us to dally in one place for too long. Come along now.]

 

 The guide moves further into the City of Ink and directs the crowd up the hill with Angea eagerly helping in any way she can. Eventually, everyone will arrive at the a lovely marketplace right at home in a city like this. The ominous atmosphere hasn't left, but there's still a strong feeling of homeliness and community when looking over the various stands and handmade decorations draped over the scenery.

Cteno

	[Here. We will stop here for a short while. Everyone is free to explore the area and do their shopping, shopping is very good. Speak to others, look at our well-made decorations. I must only warn of one thing, do not stray too far and do not go snooping in any dark alleys. We will meet back here soon to continue the tour, do not be late. You will unfortunately be left behind.]

 

Angea decides to stay behind and chat with the kitbull to learn more about the city while everyone else is free to explore the area nearby. Slowly the crowd disperses.

For some reason... It is hard to shake the feeling of being watched.

★ Species

Browbirds, Kitbulls, Painted Satyr

★ Stargold Bonuses:
+ List out all bonuses that apply to your entry
+ Include any items you use and companion if you have one

★ If Stargold Bonus calculations are off...
+ Approve anyway with adjusted bonus (even if lower)
-OR-
+ Please send back so I can edit
(if no option is given we will send back)

★ About

Part of the crowd at the ceremony falls into the abyss that opened up beneath them.

Down, down, down...

Thankfully, most are skilled enough to catch themself with their magic if they do not have the ability to fly. Those who were not able to react fast enough were rescued by others and by some luck no one was seriously injured from the fall. As the dust settles and the group is able to collect themselves, everyone takes a moment to look around their new surroundings with a mixture of confusion and awe.

Rather than a dark cavern, around them is a shimmering golden chamber covered in mysteriously glowing crystals, large statues and ancient technology. Unfortunately, the destruction caused by the falling floor has covered a good portion of the room in rubble and debris, leaving much of the intricate machinery in disrepair.

A single cloaked figure leaps from the smoke, a small body shake relieving their attire of any stray rubble. Their eye is directed upwards, looking for any route to escape as he holds the grand prize tightly in his hand. His expression is difficult to read, but there is a twinge of annoyance at a plan that worked a little too well.

Mosaic, on the other hand, is nowhere to be seen.

From far above, Heru stalls with his great wings and observes the scene below. While the collapse of this section of the building has disabled the wards completely, he realizes that a wonderful opportunity has presented itself. Not one to pass up a chance at theatrics, he clears his throat and begins to shout in a booming voice amplified by magic to ensure all below can hear him.

Heru

	“Noble contestants of my grand games! Heed my call! This momentous event has been sabotaged and grand prize stolen by none other than the hooded figure there before you! It must be reclaimed, and he must be defeated! You have made it this far, show me what you can do! Reclaim my prize so that this event can have the conclusion it deserves! Show me that you are worthy!”

 

???

	“...”

 

The thief opens his second eye in preparation for a fight.

★ Species

Browbirds, Kitbulls, Painted Satyr

★ Faction: Which faction are you choosing? (Sun, Eclipse, or Eyes)

★ Part 2 Entry: Link your entry to part 2

★ Stargold Bonuses:
+ List out all bonuses that apply to your entry
+ Include any items you use and companion if you have one

★ About

Dramatic music pours from the speakers and a rainbow of light envelops the stage as enthusiastic announcers bellow in amazement following each spell that springs forth from the hands and breath of the mages. The auditorium at the center of the Casino is lit by bright sparks of magical energy clashing as two opposing forces must channel all of their aura into a series of their best incantations. The stands are completely packed with an energetic audience cheering with each brilliant blast, going silent with each tense moment, and hollering when one mage outsmarts the other. This is what it's like in the arena during one of the Hararan magic shows!

The goal of this competition is to push one's aspects to their limits and create the most fantastical design to impress Heru, while at the same time dueling another magic user in an attempt to knock them out. Contestants can choose to focus on their own creations, destroy those made by their competition, or battle to last the longest while fighting at full power.

Out of all of the competitions, this one seems to take the most mental fortitude, and many contestants can be seen pushing themselves to their limits to make something more dazzling than the last! Will you be able to win the King’s favor?

★ Species

Browbirds, Kitbulls, Painted Satyr

★ Faction: Which faction are you choosing? (Sun, Eclipse, or Eyes)

★ Part 1 Entry: Link your entry to part 1

★ Stargold Bonuses:
+ List out all bonuses that apply to your entry
+ Include any items you use and companion if you have one

★ About

Tests of strength in Harara take on many forms, from underground fighting rings to esteemed brawler's guilds. During large fighting competitions, all are welcome to brandish their weapons and face off against powerful opponents to see who can accumulate the most victories. 

These battles are all about raw power, defense, speed, precision, and weapon skill. A mystic ward that dampens all magical abilities is placed on the fighting field, so the fighters only have your most basic skills to rely on.  However, all weapons are allowed so long as no magical effects are used, so you're free to use anything from swords and spears, to fists and claws.

While it's encouraged to be honorable in these bouts, there are many who don't mind fighting dirty. After all... There are only two rules: don't kill your opponent, and do whatever it takes to win.

Don't worry about getting rough if you're hesitant to fight someone else, there are those with healing magic capabilities on standby to mend any dire wounds sustained by those who participate in these fights.

★ Species

Browbirds, Kitbulls, Painted Satyr

★ Faction: Which faction are you choosing? (Sun, Eclipse, or Eyes)

★ Part 1 Entry: Link your entry to part 1

★ Stargold Bonuses:
+ List out all bonuses that apply to your entry
+ Include any items you use and companion if you have one

★ About

Races performed while riding a sol roc are commonplace in Harara, and the largest of these races are held at this time each year. Many local Hararans train for many years to build a bond with their sol roc and work hard in preparation for the relay and there are many families and guilds who pride themself on their sol roc accomplishments, and rivalries are commonplace. 

However, anyone is allowed to participate this year! The king himself has opened his stables to allow newcomers the chance to ride one of his many sol rocs for those who may not have one. 

Sol rocs are massive, intelligent birds that are often used as traveling mounts by many people in Harara. There are two types, one being the more grounded species that is used as a work animal, and the other more sleek and popular for flying and as pets. They come in many colorations and can have any sort of pattern you could imagine. There are many who will seek out a sol roc that matches their personal aesthetic! 

High above the city in the ancient forest tower, racers sit upon their chosen mount waiting on stone launch pads placed just within the building with large archways leading out into the sky. A crowd of people who were lucky enough to have claimed spots so close to the start of the race eagerly await the sound of fireworks, a sure signal that the race has has begun.

★ Species

Browbirds, Kitbulls, Painted Satyr

★ Faction: Which faction are you choosing? (Sun, Eclipse, or Eyes)

★ Part 1 Entry: Link your entry to part 1

★ Stargold Bonuses:
+ List out all bonuses that apply to your entry
+ Include any items you use and companion if you have one

★ Species

Browbirds, Kitbulls, Painted Satyr

★ Faction: 
+ Which faction are you part of? (sun, eclipse, or eyes)

★ Species

Browbirds, Kitbulls, Painted Satyr

★ Faction: 
+ Which faction are you part of? (sun, eclipse, or eyes)

★ Species

Browbirds, Kitbulls, Painted Satyr

★ Faction: 
+ Which faction are you part of? (sun, eclipse, or eyes)