Plans for the Cheshire Cat

Jaekob Faolan moves up the paved cobblestone toward the young mage's home, his fingers entwined with his mates. As they reach their destination, he sits the basket down for a moment and looks at her, "Are you sure you will not come with me?"

Amethyst McMahon sighs and strokes the soft fur of the limp ginger cat, looking at Jaekob with caring eyes, "no, Druid. I will go to the Sword & Shield and see the barmaid there. You settle the Cat with Audrey and Gabriel."

Amethyst McMahon: "I have already apologised to Audrey for ignoring her at the Docks when you sailed..."

Jaekob Faolan nods chewing on his lips and lifting the basket into his arms, "As you wish then. When I am done, I will join you hmm?"

Amethyst McMahon takes a deep breath and continues wearily, "best you do that, Druid, for I am weary of you not doing as I wish and returning to me bloody and bruised... if but for a short time with your Elven blood. You could have been killed in Mirkwood!"

Jaekob Faolan offers her an innocent smile, "I did what needed to be done, my love. You signed on for the elf, but the business of Druid is part of the package. I promise to spend the evening with you and you alone? Does that make up for my um misdeeds?"

Amethyst McMahon scolds further, but her voice softens, "... well, it will do for now, but one evening hardly makes up for not explaining about your friend here," she strokes the Cat once again... "...and only afterwards do I learn of the history of the Cheshire Cat and can fully appreciate his import to you."

Jaekob Faolan nods, again chewing on his lip, "I made a promise long ago and I have tried to keep it. The fewer people who knew the cat was truly a person, the safer her was."

Amethyst McMahon reaches up to kiss him gently, "yes, I know Druid. Go now and give my best wishes to Audrey and Gabriel. I will see her in town later this week for sure and will wait at the tavern for you, my love."

Jaekob Faolan nods, returning the kiss hastily and moving toward the mage's home, turning to glance at  her, "I will be there soon, my love. And then we will return to Calenhad together hmmm."

Jaekob entrusts the Cheshire Cat to the care of the Mages

Gabriel Raynecrier glances over at his wife and the cat, a distraught look on his face. He is continuously flipping the pages of the old journal, "It says here that we cannot undo the spell but we might can manage to keep the cat alive for a bit with rejuvination potions."

Audrey Ashgrove turns her gaze to Gabe and furrows her brow, "the Aran said not to "experiment" on him, my darling. He is so weak as is and our job is to keep up with the books and try and get the poor thing to at least drink."

Gabriel Raynecrier: "I know that... I was just.... just looking for alternatives. What if we fail at keeping the cat alive? It might mean we fail at our task of becoming mages in these lands."

Audrey Ashgrove rubs her temples and stands to go kneel and stir the fire, not wanting the Cat to feel the chill that grows each day, "Gaberiel Raynecrier... that is really not so important just now. This creature is at our mercy, it needs our help and Lord Jaekob has so much trust in us that he gave it to your care."

Audrey Ashgrove steels her voice, "we will not fail."

The Young Mages at Their Home with the Cat

Gabriel Raynecrier: "Well, of course, I.... I... am sorry. I did not intend to sound gruff or uncaring. For certainly the task at hand is the most important."

Gabriel Raynecrier closes the heavy journal and lays it to the side, goint to kneel by the cat and brushing his hand along its fur, "I am sorry little brother. For surely, we will do all in our power to keep you safe and eventually return you to health."

Audrey Ashgrove smiles, stroking the cat and crooning soft words before standing and putting her arms around her love, "aye, my sweet, I know where your heart is and I know you fear failure more than anything, but I think YOU could try a rejuvenation potion for the feline. I dare not as yet... my last efforts went ... awry."
Gabriel Raynecrier nods, "I do have all the ingredients now. Well, I think I do. But the Druid left a couple of potions for us to use. I will begin working at the cauldron right away and try my hand at the mixture."

Audrey Ashgrove gives him a reassuring kiss, "good, you start with the potion and I will continue to read that manuscript you found about magical objects and transmutation... maybe I will find something we have missed until yet"

Gabriel Raynecrier nods and smiles, beginning to fill his pack with supplies. I may be gone the rest of this day, but I shall return by dinner. Will you be okay alone here.... well... with the cat?

Audrey Tends to the Cheshire Cat

Audrey Ashgrove kneels back near the basket and takes the small bowl in her hand, "...but of course, my darling. The tiger will surely protect me from all harm", she laughs gaily, "but first, I will try and coax our friend into having a drink to strengthen him! Be home before dark, Gabe and you may be rewarded with some apple tart for dessert!"

Gabriel Raynecrier grins big and leans down to kiss her softly, "Well, that is a big reward, indeed. For apple tart, I shall not tardy," he says lovingly to his wife.

To be continued...

Windy Finds the Spider Carnage

Windy Ravenfeather: returns from the Shadow Lands, back into her beloved dark forest at Mirkwood. As she flies silently over the trees, she notices the absence of many of her spider friends. She narrows her eyes in examination of the area.

Windy Ravenfeather, Unseelie

"Where have you gone? Are you hiding?" She flies down to the ground and walks around the forest. She nears the area of the forest where her home is located and that is where she starts finding them. Her beloved pets lying dead, on their backs, sliced, limbs cut off and burned.

Windy and a Dead Spider

Her eyes glow brighter and brighter as her anger builds. Her face changes to a look more like a feral animal that is about to rip its prey to pieces. Her little hands balled up into fists and she finally screams. Her rage apparent to anyone within hearing distance of her enraged growl.

"I'll kill you for this!!!! I will rip you limb from limb and bathe in your blood!!" She immediately thinks of what might have been the goal of the intruders in killing her precious spiders and flies directly to her house in search of the mangy cat.

She slams the doors behind her. "Where are you, you damned beast?!" She screams in her small home. She throws furniture around, toppling over tables and chairs in search for it, but it is obvious the cat has been taken.

Windy Discovers the Cat is Gone

Furious she lets out another growl. "I know it was YOU Druid!!! But....you weren't alone in this. That damned dragon burned my friends and invaded my home." She paces like a caged animal. "I will make you pay for this! WE will make you pay for this!"  With that she flies off back to the Shadow Lands.

Jaekob and Saphira Battle Giant Spiders; Saphira Rescues the Cat

Saphira Mistwalker streaks toward Mirkwood, her wings sounding like thunder. A dark look clouds her face because she has heard Aran Jaekob had taken ship east with no guard accompanying him. She curses, "Blood and shadow! After everything I said, he comes over here alone! Mirkwood and the Unseelie Windy are dangerous!"

Saphira Mistwalker remembers the last time she was here. Windy found her by the sound of her wings, so she slows and lands when she reaches the coastline. She will not make that mistake again. She wraps herself with shadow and runs forward unseen. Her senses straining to catch everything around her, she pushes into the forest and makes her way north toward Windy's tree house. "By the Great Dragon Mother, woe be on any giant spider I encounter today," she vows. She did not lie when she told Windy shadow dragons hunted giant spiders, but her proud boast was based on no personal experience. She is only 94 and has never actually killed one herself.

Saphira Mistwalker hears strange chittering sounds ahead. Coming upon a clearing she spots a giant spider crouching over a body. She peers closer, aghast. A still two-legs form lies on the ground, desiccated and drained of life. There is armor.... NO! Elvish armor! A fiery rage fills her heart and she hisses a challenge, drops her concealing shadow and rushes forward. Acting only on instinct, she unleashes a withering gout of dragon fire, magically hot beyond any physical energy. The spider and all within several feet instantly bursts into consuming flame.

Saphira Burns the Spiders

Saphira Mistwalker returns to herself, finding she hovers several feet above the scene. "What happened?" she wonders, looking down. Luckily, the forest floor was damp so the fire has not spread. Within her circle of destruction, soon nothing identifiable will remain. She shudders, because she has not felt the full force of her draconic nature before. She drops again to the forest floor, grabs shadow to cover herself, and hurries on. "This cannot have been the Aran, I would have known," she reasons. She must find him.

Jaekob Faolan growls as yet another spider moves toward him. His eyes scour the ground looking for the staff he dropped while he invokes the earth to rumble and rise toppling over the nearest spider.

Jaekob Faolan doesn't see the one above him in the trees and lets out a loud cry as the spider drops on top of him kocking him to the ground.

Saphira Mistwalker moves closer to Windy's tree house, watching carefully for more spiders.

Saphira Mistwalker startles as she hears a nearby cry and hurries to see who is there.

Jaekob Faolan: "Saphira," he shouts out seeing her. Be careful, they are everywhere. And finding his staff he pushes up to swing it at the nearest spider.

Saphira Joins the Fight

Saphira Mistwalker moves closer, and sees Aran Jaekob surrounded by giant spiders.

Saphira Mistwalker smiles a feral grin and draws her daggers. She cloaks in shadow and rushes the nearest spider.

Saphira Mistwalker slashes back and forth, severing a head here, a leg there. She dare not use fire, with Jaekob in the midst of the spiders.

Saphira Mistwalker moves closer, dropping out of shadow again so Jaekob can see her.

Saphira Mistwalker: "Aran!"

Saphira Proves Herself a Worthy Ally

Jaekob Faolan: As she disappear from sight and back again, the Druid drops to his knee, his staff pushing toward a spider, catching it square in the eye. He pushes the staff hard as the spider tears into his leg.

Saphira Mistwalker moves up, hissing a challenge and slices through the spider attacking Jaekob.

Saphira Mistwalker takes to the air, diving on the spiders.

Jaekob Faolan feels a smile curl onto his lips, knowing the advantage is now theirs and strikes again and again, his staff making their mark as his leg becomes a bloody target for them.

Saphira Mistwalker looks to Jaekob, seeing he is also attacking and smiles, hissing happily.

Jaekob Faolan: "Watch out for the one in the trees," he shouts, turning quickly to slam his staff at another spider.

Saphira Mistwalker looks up to see another spider approaching from above.

Saphira Mistwalker me flies up, and breathes a massive cloud of dragon fire at the approaching spider.

Saphira Mistwalker nods as the spider explodes, dropping in pieces to the ground.

Jaekob Faolan laughs as with the aid of his friend, the spider bodies begin to pile up and the fight is being won.

Saphira Mistwalker lands again and wades into the spiders from behind, slashing right and left with draconic glee.

Saphira Mistwalker hisses victoriously as another spider falls before her blades and claws.

Jaekob Faolan moves through the spider carcasses toward his friend, "Saphira, I do not how how you found me but thank the Ghods you showed up.

Saphira Mistwalker heaves a sigh of relief, "I heard you had come over here, and knew there would be trouble."

 Jaekob Faolan: "Trouble?" he half laughs waving a hand through the air. "I was just a little outnumbered."

Saphira Mistwalker spies Jaekob's leg. "You are wounded, did one bite you?"

Jaekob Faolan nods, "Not sure if its a bite or was just mauled, but I can tend it once I.... we have found the cat.

Saphira Mistwalker frowns. "They have venom, do you have an antidote?"

Jaekob Faolan: "I am a elf," he smiles softly. "Elves are immune to most such things."

Saphira Mistwalker shakes her head. "That is a good thing."

Saphira Mistwalker: "So then, the cat? I assume you have not seen it anywhere in the forest?"

Jaekob Faolan nods, "As I was searching the forest, I thought I heard a mewing sound, but it was very faint at best. I cannot search higher than the ground and I suspect this Unseelie lives higher up."

Saphira Mistwalker nods. "If I remember right from my scouting trip here, her tree house stands north and east of us, toward the mountains."

Jaekob Faolan: "I have seen no sign of her. Might you be able to get close enough to listen for the cat?"

Saphira Mistwalker: "She will not be happy to see us, I fear. Nor will she appreciate the number of her 'friends" we have removed."

Saphira Mistwalker: "Aye, I will fly up. I doubt I can hide from her now, after the ruckus we have caused."

Jaekob Faolan: "Her friend's death is on me. If she took the cat, then I am more than justified."

Saphira Mistwalker: "Meh, I never cared for her friends, and especially not after what I found earlier."

Saphira Mistwalker: "Stay here a moment, I will scout ahead."

Jaekob Faolan swallows hard and nods, "Be safe Saphira."

Jaekob Faolan quickly retrieves a flask of water from his rucksack and pours it over the wound on his knee, the dilluted blood pouring down slowly showing the wound to mostly insignificant.

Saphira Mistwalker flies back down to Jaekob.

Jaekob Faolan: "Anything? Did you find anything at all?"

Saphira Mistwalker: "As I suspected, her tree house is near. I flew around it and did not see her. I thought I heard a faint mewing from within."

Jaekob Faolan eyes widen, "The cat, We must get it  and return it to safety."

Saphira Mistwalker frowns, "It is off the ground, with no ladder or steps."

Saphira Mistwalker: "I can fly up, but I do not know what will happen when I enter."

Jaekob Faolan nods and signs, "Would you be willing to risk it and take the cat safely home?"

Saphira Mistwalker nods. "I will do what I must Aran. Thwarting this particular Unseelie fae will give me great pleasure."

Jaekob and Saphira After the Fight

Jaekob Faolan grins broadly, "If you find him, take him to your cave hmmm? I must let the Aran here know my business is finished and I will come home forthwith."

Saphira Mistwalker nods, "As you wish. Hopefully I will have what it needs for dinner."

Jaekob Faolan laughs, "Am sure he will be delighted with whatever you can provide. Now go quickly or we risk the Unseelie's return. I will head for Mirkwood and then home."

Saphira Mistwalker nods. "I will. Take care Aran, and please, no more spider encounters."

Saphira Mistwalker grins. "We will see if I am the Rogue I think I am, and can enter without leaving sign of my efforts."

Jaekob Faolan: "Oh, I have no doubt of your success," he says softly as she flies away and he turns to make his way toward the great keep of Mirkwood.

Saphira Mistwalker cautiously approaches the doors of the Unseelie Fae's tree house, carefully checking for any obvious magic. She slowly reaches out with her senses and carefully runs one claw along the line between the doors. She senses no magic and hisses laughter and says, "Windy is too sure of herself. She has not spelled the doors." She wraps herself in shadow and carefully opens one side of the double-doors. She peers within and sighs with relief. Windy is not home.

Saphira Mistwalker drops her shadow and calls out, "Kitty Kitty, are you here?"

Saphira Mistwalker scans the room and sees the cat crouching beneath the sofa, backed against the wall with ears laid back. She drops to one knee and extends her hand, palm low and non-threatening. and calls out, "Little one, I have been sent by Aran Jaekob to rescue you and return you to the River Lands. Will you come with me?"

Cheshire cat peers back and meows uncertainly.

Saphira Mistwalker urges, "Little one, we must hurry, before the Fae Windy returns. I promise, I will take you to my cave where she will not harm you and Aran Jaekob can come and get you."

Cheshire cat slowly and warily approaches her.

Saphira Mistwalker lets the cat sniff her hand. She smiles and says, "All right then, if you are willing, I will fly you back to my cave. I must carry you, but I promise you will be safe. I will not let you fall." She holds out her arms, and the cat leaps into them and snuggles against her. She flies out the door, slapping it closed with her tail and grinning.

Saphira Mistwalker talks to the cat as she flies home, a long flight, and the day is nearly spent when they land at her cave. She reaches with her magic, and causes the solid rock slab door of her cave to slide with a rumble into the ground. She smiles to the cat in her arms and says,  "Here we are little one, home for now." She puts the cat down and raises her door. Frowning, she turns to the cat and says, "We are safe here, but you may have trouble with that door. If you need out, let me know." She giggles and adds, "I would certainly not want any 'presents' left on the floor of my cave."

Cheshire cat gives her a withering glance and sniffs in disdain.

Saphira Mistwalker ponders, "Hmm, let me see, I have beef and shrimp left from market day, I hope they will be to your liking. And, I have an old gown I can lay out for you to sleep on." She sets out the items and then turns to her hoard and curls up with a yawn before adding, "Good night little one, sleep well."

Unseelie and Drowess Meet

Arianna Shadowdew walks around the dark halls of the Shadow Lands, alone and lost in her thoughts. Ever since her hasty retreat and failure to overthrow the Druid King, she's fallen out of favor with her people and lost the respect of her superiors. "My. How the mighty have fallen," she tells to herself as she seeks solitude in the darkness.

Arianna Shadowdew: She stops to admire one of the enormous spiders that call this place home. She knows her way well around these creatures. Having raised many since they hatched. "Hello there beautiful. How many have you killed this week?" She asks the spider, a pang of frustration, sadness, and anger clouding her mind. How long has it been since I've seen battle? Since I drew blood?" she thinks to herself.

Arianna and the Spider

Windy Ravenfeather completed her journey from Mirkwood to the Shadow Lands, carrying the collar in her pouch. "I hope she's still in these parts. Haven't seen her in an age. Since I was able to procure some nice spiders for my forest."

Windy Ravenfeather makes her way inside the darkened halls of the Shadow Lands. Her gift in concealing herself in the shadows will serve her well here. It's so much more difficult to find shadows in Cheshire, where the sun finds its way in even in the forest.

Windy Ravenfeather stealthily and with great caution she avoids the few Drows that are walking about the area, then she sees her in the distance. She moves quietly through the shadows and hides in a patch of large mushrooms. She watches her intently, not sure if she should approach.

Windy Hides

Arianna Shadowdew 's blood red eyes and sharper than a bird of prey in the darkness. She knows these halls better than the back of her own hand. She knows every nook, cranny, plant, insect and even every shadow. It serves her well in battle.

Arianna Shadowdew: Out of the corner of her eye, she notices a shadow moving here and there until it stops behind the mushrooms. She acts as if she is not aware of the creature hiding, watching her. "Beautiful spider. My friend, I think I might have found you a suitable snack." She says to the spider with a wicked smile on her lips.

Arianna Shadowdew: Without looking at the stranger, as she pets the spider carefully, she speaks loudly for the stranger to hear. "Would you like to meet my friend here? She's rather hungry tonight, and....well, you smell really good."

Windy Ravenfeather trembles at hearing the words coming out of the woman and knows she has to face her. Swallows hard and pulls her courage. "Well then! Here goes nothing." she says to herself then walks out of her hiding place and nears the woman.

Windy Ravenfeather: "Greetings M'Lady Commander Arianna."

Arianna Shadowdew's face is impassive, though a hint of anger is reflected in her eyes. She speaks coldly in almost a hiss. "No longer Commander little dark one. It's been quite a long time since you've entered our halls Windy."

Windy Ravenfeather looks nervous at realizing her greeting already managed to anger Arianna. She knows full well how dangerous she is, and her power is definitely not to be taken lightly. She nods softly keeping her eyes on her, watching in case of attack. "Aye M'Lady."

Arianna Shadowdew: "Have you come for more spiders?" she asks studying the fae carefully.

Windy Ravenfeather shakes her head slowly. "No M'Lady. I come in the hopes that you might shed light on an item I recently.....acquired."

Arianna Shadowdew paces slowly around Windy, a small smirk on her face. "An item? What sort of trinket would be important enough to risk your life coming here and disturbing me?"

Windy and Arianna

Windy Ravenfeather eyes widen in fear of her. "It is a small collar M'Lady. One that is, filled with....dark magic."

Arianna Shadowdew stops walking and stares at Windy. "Dark magic, you say? You better be sure about what you are saying little fae, or I will feed you to my friend here."

Windy Ravenfeather swallows hard and takes out the collar handing it to Arianna. "Please examine it yourself M'Lady."

Arianna Shadowdew eyes the collar then picks it up. The moment her skin touched the inside of the collar she could feel it. She could feel the darkness, the hatred, the evil intent it carried and she arched an eyebrow as if intrigued. She raised the collar to her face to take a closer look. "Where did you get this?"

Windy Ravenfeather hesitates at first, but knows that Arianna has ways of getting the truth out of people that are rather unpleasant. Not wanting to see her wings ripped from her back she decides to respond. "There's this cat, you see. I took it in hopes of getting a ransom from the owner, who is rather attached to the creature."

Arianna Shadowdew looks at her as if she would laugh at the nonsense coming out of her mouth. "What kind of imbecile are you? No one would pay ransom for a stupid cat!"

Windy Ravenfeather looks flustered and very nervous. "He would! The Druid! What's his name again....ummm..."

Arianna Shadowdew looks at her, her eyes narrowed and looking as if they would melt her skin right off. "Jaekob? The cat belongs to Jaekob?"

Windy Ravenfeather nods emphatically. "Aye M'Lady. He's always doting on the creature, so I figured a few easy coins to make, for very little trouble."

Arianna Shadowdew: The name echoing in her mind, as loud church bells, sending a deafening sound through her skull. That man that has brought nothing but misery and shame to her and her family. She suddenly looks calm and almost content. She grins at Windy. "I shall help you in this matter, Windy. However, I will need you to tell me everything you know about this cat and Jaekob."

Windy Ravenfeather: They retreat into the shadows, speaking in hushed tones.

Market Day - Things are Not Always What They Seem

Just another typical Market Day! Or was it? The Fae known as Talia has begun to sell dolls and Fae food and drink. Did you know Fae food might affect other races... well.... oddly. Or did SHE know what she was doing and merely played a prank on the innocent hobbit? This roleplay has been edited heavily because of length. My apologies to anyone left out of the mix. Huzzah Roleplayers of the River Lands! You rock!

Fiesty Lotus: "Oh, these be pretty Fae Talia."

Talia.Sunsong: "Thank you! I be selling these peoples."

Talia's Market Stall

Talia.Sunsong sets out a doll with wings and a tail and looks at Saphira.

Tanglefoot BarkFellow: "Why, that has wings very much like Saphira's."

Talia.Sunsong giggles and holds doll up,  "Fly Fly."

Tanglefoot BarkFellow whispers to Saphira  "Is this more Fae magic that I don't understand?"

Saphira Mistwalker smiles. 'Undoubtedly Tangles."

Tanglefoot BarkFellow: "They are very .. enchanting, Ms. Talia."

Saphira Mistwalker hisses laughter. "Well ,you did promise me a dragon poppet. Nicely done Lady Talia."

Saphira Mistwalker

Saphira Mistwalker: "How much would you be asking for that cute dragon my lady?"

Talia.Sunsong: "Only 2 silver for a Jester or a witch or a leprechaun or a dragon lady."

Saphira Mistwalker nods and pulls two silver coins from her pouch and hands them to Lady Talia.

Saphira Mistwalker: gave 2 silver coin.

Tanglefoot BarkFellow speaks up shyly .. "I managed to get some milk from my goats .. if anyone is interested.   I think 5 copper each isn't too much to ask?"

Tanglefoot BarkFellow stands by his milk bottles and tries to look business like.

Tanglefoot BarkFellow whispers to Fiesty  "I really wonder about those Fae dolls."

Talia.Sunsong: "Yes I made Fae dolls and Fae food" shakes bottle. "Special Fae juice pressed from blossoms."

Juste Rivers licks his lips, "Whut is fae juice? Mees is a little bit thirsty?"

Sunbeam Magic: "Pray do tell what is in the pink bottle?"

Talia.Sunsong: "It's a secret Fae formula, blended from plants from the fairy lands."

Fiesty Lotus: "Greetins Tangles. Is that yer goat's milk I see?"

Sunbeam Magic: "Does one drink it ?"

Tanglefoot BarkFellow: "It is indeed, Miss Fiesty."

Talia.Sunsong: "It is very good for thirst. It will make hair thicker."

Tanglefoot BarkFellow: "My goats have been very generous this week."

Juste Rivers: "Maybe, mees should 'ave a drink cause me is so parchmental."

Fiesty Lotus: "Well, I amma thirsty . How much fer it?"

Juste Rivers: " 'Ow much is it?"

Talia.Sunson: "Five copper for the Fae juice."

Talia.Sunsong jiggles the bottle up and down and hope it catches the light.

Sunbeam Magic: "How much is the little doll with the braids ? Lady Talia."

Talia.Sunsong: "That's one coming up for Mr. Juste Rivers."

Tanglefoot BarkFellow: "I hope you enjoy the milk, Fiesty.   The goats are young and strong."

Grid: Talia.Sunsong gave you Messed up Fae Juice Unity Food.

Juste Rivers takes the bottle and returns to his stall to work.

Talia.Sunsong: "Only 2\two silver for a doll. You like the sunny braided doll, Sunbeam?"

Fiesty Lotus takes the milk and takes a swig.

Fiesty Lotus: "Umm, that be good and freash."

Sunbeam Magic: "I like her very much, she looks so sweet."

Fiesty Lotus: "Thank ye Tangles."

Tanglefoot BarkFellow: "Most welcome, Fiesty.  Maybe it will be good for baking, too?"

Juste Rivers uncorks his fae juice and takes a sniff.

 Juste Rivers: "It bees smelling right good," he says sticking his nose into the opening to smell further.

Talia.Sunsong: "It's the flowers that makes the Fae Juice smell so good."

Saphira Mistwalker watches Juste with the fae juice and smiles.

Talia.Sunsong: "The Fae that told me the recipe said to add lots of flowers, or was it berries?"

Fiesty Lotus calls out,  "I got cookies fer sale."

Tanglefoot BarkFellow: "Ms Talia, how much for the one with feathers in her hair?  I think my niece back home would like her."

Talia.Sunsong picks up the sun hat wearing doll and gives up the sunny Fae.

Juste Rivers realizes the tantalizing smell has caused him to poke his nose a bit too deep into the bottle and he begins to tug at it with both hands.

Tanglefoot BarkFellow: "Ah, that might be why she speaks to me.  She likes the wilds."

Juste Rivers: "Missy Saphira if you bees wanting some of mees food, mees will be with you in a moment," he says suddenly jerking the bottle off his nose and making a loud popping sound.

Saphira Mistwalker covers her mouth, hiding a smile.

Saphira Mistwalker: "When you have a moment Juste, I would love one of your berry pies."

Juste Rivers: "Mees got the time now, Missy Saphira," he says taking a big swig of the Fae juice and then beginning to wrap up the pie.

Saphira Mistwalker digs in her pouch. "How much is it Juste?"

Talia.Sunsong @grid.kitely.com:8002: See, Juste, you can drink the Fae juice. Is your hair thicker now

Juste Rivers: "Dat will be five of da copper coins Missy Saphira," he says leaning over the stall almost climbing onto it to stare at her as he gives her the pie.

Tanglefoot BarkFellow: "The bottles of goat milk are on the back of that wagon, if you're interested ..  I'm going to look at those cookies now."

Tanglefoot BarkFellow: "Fiesty, those cookies smell wonderful.  I'll take two, if you still have some left."

Sunbeam Magic: "Your salad looks so fresh and healtthy Lady Fiesty."

Tanglefoot BarkFellow: "I bet they go well with goat's milk."

Fiesty Lotus: "It be Fae Sunbeam- it has them tomtoes and lettce and bits of cheese."

Sunbeam Magic:|"Cookies and milk are a fairylicious combination Tangles," smiles at Tangles.

Juste Rivers: ."WAITS!!!" he screams and jumps across the table. "Dat pie is infested wif something."

Saphira Mistwalker raises an eyebrow and hisses in alarm. "What?"

Fiesty Lotus: "What's going on?"

Sunbeam Magic runs over to see.

Saphira Mistwalker: Juste, what is the matter?

Juste Rivers knocks the pie out of her hands and begins to jump up and down on it, his feet turning a pretty purple, "Dat pie done got da dowrie disease," he screams again and dropping to all fours pushes it into the dirt and begins to bury it much like a dog would.

Fiesty Lotus: "What is that disease Juste?"

Talia.Sunsong: "Your feet are purple now Juste."

Tanglefoot BarkFellow: "Oh dear.  I've never seen Hobbit's feet turn purple."

Juste Rivers: "Mees is just fine, Missy Saphira. Mees done saved you again from dem dowries," he says cutting his eyes around at everyone's feet, looking at them suspiciously.

Juste Rivers: "Mees smells someting fishy."

Saphira Mistwalker: "Oh dear, I was so looking forward to that pie."

Talia.Sunsong: "I didn't sell fish."

Fiesty Lotus watches Juste- worried.

Talia.Sunsong looks at my feet and other's feet.

Tanglefoot BarkFellow scrunches up his face.  "Oh, Juste ... Drow were just stories our uncles told us to frighten us... "

Juste Rivers gets down and begins to crawl around, obviously checking everyone's feet.

Sunbeam Magic whispers: "He looks fine to me, could of been a ruse to get everyone over to his stall " whispers in Lady Talia's ear.

Saphira Mistwalker shakes her head. "No Tangles, we had a drow here a while back. He was ... possessed by a demon."

Tanglefoot BarkFellow blinks hard. "You mean.. they're real?"

Saphira Mistwalker: "Aye, they live across the water from my cave, in the Shadow Lands."

Fiesty Lotus: "Yes, they be real."

Juste Rivers: "Missy Talia, mees wants to see your feet." he says rather authoritatively with his hands on his hips.

Talia.Sunsong: "Demon Drow? ohhhh don't be scared Juste, the Demon Drow isn't here now. If they come I'll give the Fae juice to calm them down."

Fiesty Lotus: "Juste is right to be frightened if there is anything wrong."

Sunbeam Magic: "I hear tell Lady Saphira was the heroine and vanished the demon somehow Tangles, they are truly real. "

Talia.Sunsong looks at the assertive Hobbit. "You want to see my feet?"

Saphira Mistwalker blushes. "It was not I, but a powerful Spirit I let use my form."

Juste Rivers: "Shows em to mees."

Talia.Sunsong: "My feet aren't hairy like hobbit feet."

Fiesty Lotus: "Why don't you do that Fae Talia? It will soothe his fears."

Talia.Sunsong dances a jig to show her bare feet. "There now. Not cloven hooves."


Juste Rivers: "Wells, it does not bees you."

Saphira Mistwalker nods. "Luckily, my elders had taught me well. And, Lord Jaekob had knowledge of a powerful spell to sunder the demon."

Sunbeam Magic: "My mouth is watering for those beautiful tomatoes Lady Fiesty, may I get a salad from you, I believe the little hobbit will be fine."

Juste Rivers turns and looks at the merchant by the barrels and walks over to her, hands on hips, "Now is your turn. Show mees your feets."

Fiesty Lotus: "I do hope so- I will look in on him when we get home."

Saphira Mistwalker watches Juste closely. "Perhaps, in the future, you should avoid the Fae Juice Juste."

Juste Rivers: "Hands still on hips, he begins to tap his feet as the merchant ignores him and suddenly he hits the ground, lifts the edge of her skirt and screams.

Sunbeam Magic opens her pouch and withdraws exactly 5 copper coins and drops them in Fiesty's open palm.

Juste Rivers: "Mees knew it," he says poking at the woman's shoes. "You put on fish instead of your shoes dis 'ere morning and you be smelling fishy."

Juste Rivers sighs reluctantly and takes another big swig of the Fae juice and goes to tend his stall, feeling much better now that business has been tended to.

Juste Rivers tidies his stall, mumbling, "Da peoples should knows dat you do nots wear Fish shoes on Thursdays."

Juste Rivers seems to calm down a little bit and stands there blinking and sweating and shifting from foot to foot as he finishes off the last of the bottle of Fae juice.

Sunbeam Magic: "Thank you Tangles, goat milk is one of favorite drinks of all time."

Talia.Sunsong: "Maybe this is just the way Hobbits act. Is fish a good leather? Maybe if it was made of shark?"

Saphira Mistwalker: "Oooh, I have heard of people using shark skin far to the east, when I traveled there. They said it was quite tough."

Juste Rivers: "Did you 'ears dat?" he says startling and looking sharply to the house in the corner.

Talia.Sunsong: "Hear what?"

Talia.Sunsong follows Juste's gaze.

Juste Rivers claps his hands over his eyes and walks a bit closer, leaning in as he walks.

Juste Rivers: "Oh noes, it done pecked at mee," he says screaming and clutching a hand to his arse. "It done bit me."

Talia.Sunsong: "Where? Where? What was it?"

Fiesty Lotus goes to Juste AGAIN.

Juste Rivers grabs Talia and pushes her back toward the crowd, screaming, "It bees a giant chicken 'ouse."

Talia.Sunsong stumbles backwards, surprised at how strong Juste is.

Juste Rivers runs over and grabs a stack of pies and begins tossing them toward the house, "Ere Chickie Chickie Chick. Eres you some food. Please don't eat da peoples."

What Juste Thought He Saw

Fiesty Lotus: "He seems a bit excited today."

Saphira Mistwalker: "Is he going to be okay?"

Talia.Sunsong: "Maybe we should pick him up, turn him upside down and shake the silliness out of him."

Talia.Sunsong backs up as pies splatter around.

Talia.Sunsong: "Yes invisible chicken don't eat the people,"

Juste Rivers's eyes widen as he imagines a giant egg plop onto the ground and runs over to it, trying to roll it toward the crowd when he yelps and screams, "It done bit me, it done bit me," and his arms being to flail as he sees a house on chicken legs hot in pursuit of him.

Juste Rivers shouts:  "Giant chicken on da loose. Run for your lives."

Juste Running From the Imaginary Chicken

The Apprentice Mages are tasked with an important Project

Audrey Ashgrove sits deep in contemplation on the sofa, a pile of old books and manuscripts surrounding her.
Audrey Ashgrove looks up startled as the door opens and Gabriel enters, setting his pack down near the table.
Audrey Ashgrove whoops with delight, "Darling, you're home!"

Gabriel Raynecrier smiles seeing her and quickly drops his pack in the corner and moves closer to her, a look of frustration on his face. "You are home, my love. What a pleasant surprise." And he moves closer settling down beside her and the stacks of books.
Audrey Ashgrove upends most of the books as she beams at him, leaning across the chaise to smother him with kisses.
Gabriel Raynecrier laughs, his mood changing toward the better, "Now, that is a fine greeting."
Audrey Ashgrove quickly saves the books from toppling onto the floor and laughs happily, "aye, I have missed you something fierce, my heart. How was your trip. Did you find what you were searching for? How is Taibreamh? Is it really as pretty as they all say?", the questions tumble from her lips.
Gabriel Raynecrier settles comfortably, his fingers entwined in hers, "Oh, yes, Taibreamh is quite breathtaking. But, no, I did not find the last of the items I need for the quest the Master assigned us. It is getting quite frustrating and am not sure what purpose this search is good for," he chuckles.

Audrey Ashgrove widens her eyes and squeezes his hand, "oh Gabe, you must be famished and I'll get you a piece of Juste's nut pie in a moment, but only the other day as I was on my way to town, I arrived at the Docks to see Lord Jaekob sailing away."
Gabriel Raynecrier: "Sailing away? I wonder what that is about? The last we talked he said nothing of a journey... um, and yes, I am a little hungry."
Audrey Ashgrove nods quickly as the words tumble from her..."I don't think it was expected, Gabe. As I arrived, I heard Amethyst scolding Lord Jaekob for journeying without his Guard.. or at least a Ranger escort. She was most vexed. The King saw me and nodded, then kissed Amethyst quickly and told her not to fret, that he would return within a few days."
Gabriel Raynecrier wrinkles his nose and nods, "Well I suppose it is not something we need worry about. A King's business, you know..." he says with a laugh.

Audrey Ashgrove sighs and furrows her brow...*but Ame was so distressed, Gabe, she nearly knocked me over as she left the Docks, barely murmuring a greeting... she was mighty upset, but Lord Jaekob boarded and I watched him nod to the Captain to sail."
Audrey Ashgrove moves closer and motions to the books lying scattered across the room, "..and that is why I am here with all these old books I brought you from our homeland."
Gabriel Raynecrier: "Well, what do you propose we do about this, my love? The Master tells us what he wants of us and I suppose there is nothing we can do about whatever is going on," he says glancing to the books. "What do the books have to do with this situation you think exists?"

Audrey Ashgrove gnaws on her lip and flicks the pages of the book pn her lap..."Well, as the boat was pulling out of the Dock, Lord Jaekob hailed me and shouted to me to request of you that you should leave off with the last task he set you for now and we should both search these books of my father's for any information about Transformations!"
Audrey Ashgrove pauses, narrows her eyes and continues hurriedly, "oh, and magical items used in Transformations too!"
Gabriel Raynecrier pushes back into the seat, wide-eyed, "Transformations? Do you realize that is a topic far above our current abilities? What does he expect of us? One day I am looking for ingredients for potions and the next I am to study Transformations and magical items? We ARE but apprentices!"
Audrey Ashgrove shrugs and smiles blandly... "aye, at least you haven't near blown up any cauldrons as yet!"

Gabriel Raynecrier laughs and squeezes her hand tightly, "Well, at least you have tried. I am still searching for the last two ingredients on the quest. But, fine if he wants us to research magical items and transformations, so be it."
Audrey Ashgrove takes a deep breath..."I don't think he tried to tell me anything further, even so the wind took away any further words uttered. All I know is he only mentioned the old writings from our homeland and it must be quite important. He is a hard taskmaster, but not unfair and he would not allow us to undertake anything that was beyond our capabilities!"
Gabriel Raynecrier bends over and digs through the stack of books picking up one titled 'Arcanum Life'. "This is the book we should begin with then."
Audrey Ashgrove gazes lovingly at Gabe as he chooses an old volume, the leather crumbling.... "I did take the first few books and parchments from the trunk and have tried to decipher some of the texts...", she sighs wearily, "well... I am so very glad you are back, my dearest... and not just to guide me with perusing these papers."

Gabriel Raynecrier: "Your father was just beginning to teach me a bit about Arcanum Life and how a mage could affect a living being's life pattern with spells. Do you suppose that is the kind of thing we are searching for?"
Audrey Ashgrove puts aside the heavy volume on her lap and leans in to brush a kiss across Gabe's bent forehead, his attention already captivated by his book..., "That I cannot say, but it sounds like a good start. Lord Jaekob told Amethyst he would be only gone a matter of days, so we best make use of the time and take notes of anything we think may be useful."

Gabriel Raynecrier: "Look here," and he points to a line slowly translating it. "It says a spell can affect the life particles of a being such as turning someone into a pig," he laughs.
Gabriel Raynecrier: "But, we are familiar with such things already. Your father was quite fond of turning disobedient students into toads for a time!"
Audrey Ashgrove giggles as she rises and moves across towards the fireplace, her voice warm and full of humour, "aye, he had a rather short temper, to be sure.... but before we continue further, we must first make sure that you are properly nourished and a large piece of Juste's pie should give you energy enough to study these books all through the night."
Gabriel Raynecrier laughs and reminisces, "He would get angry and say if you are too lazy to do the work I give you, you might like being lazy on a lilypad for a day or two..."
Gabriel Raynecrier nods and smiles and follows her with his eyes, laying the book aside, "Oh yes, pie would be wonderful." Audrey Ashgrove laughs as she cuts a slice of pie and pours some ale into a goblet... "Well, Gabriel Raynecrier... best you beware, in case the apple has not fallen too far from the tree!"
Audrey Ashgrove muses aloud... "although a bunny would be much preferable to a toad..."
Gabriel Raynecrier takes the offering, his eyes twinkling, "I will risk it all, my love."
Audrey Ashgrove smiles and gives him a kiss, "Good that you are home, dear heart...and now eat up so we can get to work!"



To be continued....

Jaekob Visits the Sylvan Elves

   The Druid moved quickly down the plank that connected ship and land and turned to wave a hand through the air, "Thank you, my friend," he said over the breaking waves that slapped onto shore.

Jaekob Lands in Mirkwood

"Remember, wait only three days and if I am not returned, sail home with the note I gave you hmmm?" And he turned and began his trek into the forests of Mirkwood, working his way to the northernmost end and the home of the Sylvan Elves.
   He inched his way slowly, looking for a path, but finding nothing of note. He pushed his way through, using his hands to push and pull limbs out of his path. Already his shirt was torn in a place or two and his breeches ripped at the knee where he had taken a fall amongst growth too thick to see the pit in the ground. He swiped at the small bit of blood and growled to himself, wondering if these giant spiders he had heard tell of gave notice to such things as blood.

Jaekob in the Forest

   "Where is my staff," he grumbles to himself, beating at the growth with a hand and finally finding a sturdy enough length of a branch and he tests his weight on it. "This will do quite nicely. Now let's find the elves and secure permission to hunt in their lands," he says as if he has a companion. But, truth be told he often talked when he appeared alone. Did not the rocks and the trees like a bit of conversation? he chuckled good naturedly to himself and trekked onward.
   And finally the massive stone bridge that led into Mirkwood lay just before him. He slapped his hands at his breeches, realizing he must look quite out of place. As he neared the entrance guards, they stepped forward, their stance changing from one of guards to that of protectors.
   "Vedui, my cousins," he said softly holding his hands out palm upward. "I am Jaekob, Aran Taur'amandil of the River Lands and come on a quest to find something of mine that is lost and, hopefully, easily found. I ask this parchment be delivered onto your Aran stating my case. That and nothing more, cousins."
   "Their faces were impassive, so very.. Sylvan," he thought to himself as one of the guards stepped forward and with a curt nod took the note and moved inside the large doors. The guard said nothing, nothing at all. And the Druid stood their quietly, patiently, waiting for permission to search for his friend.

Jaekob at the Entrance to the Home of the Sylan Elves

the Unseelie and the Cheshire Cat Fight

the Cheshire Cat

Windy Ravenfeather: is comfortably sitting in her chair, having just finished a nice fresh rat she found in one of the webs nearby. She looks at the cat and makes a face. "Once again turning up your nose at the dinner I provided? I don't care if you starve you mangy cat."

Windy and the Cheshire Cat

the Cheshire Cat looks at her, the eyes of the man deeply buried within the cat. He pads about the room noiselessly offering several broad swishes of his tail. "Damned Unseelie," the human words rumble in his mind. "Just let me go, eh. Save us both some anguish." And again, the cat swishes his tail, now puffing it up in annoyance.

the Cat and the Unseelie

the Cheshire Cat Watches Windy

Windy Ravenfeather crouches on top of her chair like a predator stalking her prey. Her eyes narrowed and slightly glowing examining the cat. "If I didn't know better, I would guess that you think yerself above all of this!" She half growls at the cat. "For the life of me, I can't figure why the King wants you so badly. Cats like you are as common as leaves on trees."

the Cheshire Cat watches her every movement, the crouch, a show of aggression and he silently moves backward, his forelegs bending slightly as his whole body seems to puff up, "Let's don't do this eh, bitch?" he thinks to himself,swatting a paw into the air, claws extended. "Get me a nice fish and let's call it even for now?" the words rumble in his mind as the cat instinct he is so familiar with takes over and begins to grumble sand hiss.

Windy Ravenfeather hisses back at the creature. She jumps off the chair and lands mere whiskers length away from the cat's face. "You think yer tough, don't ya? I have claws and sharp teeth just like you, only I'm bigger and experienced at killing little things like you."

the Cheshire Cat purses his feline lips and a feral rumbling pours out as his eyes cut toward the sofa looking for a safe haven should he need it.. "You might be bigger, bitch, " the words wash through his mind. "Yeah, but I bet I am faster." And as his last human thought vanishes, he arches his back, claws out and he locks his eyes on hers in a standoff, continually hissing and growling.

Windy Ravenfeather doesn't back down at the display, instead becoming angrier. Her eyes glowing with her growing temper. A low growl forming deep within her tiny body. She lunges towards the cat, attempting to pounce on it, to hold it against the ground.

the Cheshire Cat: "Oh you want to play, eh?" he thinks to himself as he tries to dodge her attempt to grab him, a paw quickly slashing out toward her, claws looking for her flesh. "Show me what you got and I will show you what I got," he thinks to himself, managing to escape to a corner.

Windy Ravenfeather winces and growls loudly as his claws manage to dig into her arm slightly, yet drawing blood. She screams with fury. "I'll kill you, you stupid beast and make a meal of you for my spiders to play with!" She runs after the cat, attempting to trap it in the corner.

the Cheshire Cat backs into the corner. hunkered down and ready to pounce, his mouth open to show his teeth as he hisses and growls loudly. Realizing she is not going to back down, he darts between her legs and makes his way to the other side of the room. "Catch me, catch me, if you can, Fae," he thinks to himself, realizing he does not really have the advantage but bravado pushes him forward.

Windy Ravenfeather watches the cat cut through her legs and decides she's had enough of the chase. She flies quickly behind the cat, and strikes down with her hand attempting to grab him by the collar.

the Cheshire Cat: Realizing he has been nabbed, yet again, he begins to flail about in her grasp, his paws striking wildly at her, the sounds feral and deep. "AArgh," he thinks to himself as her assault brings pain to his body. "Well, hopefully, she will see some benefit in keeping me and I won't be spider food tonight," he thinks to himself realizing she had won this fight.

Windy Ravenfeather pulls him up by the collar and turns him so his back is to her, in order to avoid further scratches. Her fingers wrapped around the collar, she dangles the cat up in the air, making the collar tighter as he struggles. "Not so fast when you have no ground to help ye, huh?"  She laughs wickedly, enjoying the pain she is causing the creature.

Windy Ravenfeather: In the midst of her torturing the cat, she begins to feel something strange where her skin is touching the inside of the collar. It was subtle at first; almost a slight tingle. However the sensation started to grow. It felt like heat, like a fire was burning within the collar. It was sending feelings and images into her mind.

the Cheshire Cat lets his fur flatten, tucking his front legs close to his body. His ears lay back, twitching just a bit. "You win, you win," he thinks to himself. "Just put me down eh," And the cat continues his submissive posturing hoping for the best outcome.

Windy Ravenfeather: Something very dark, very ancient. It was an old hate. One that was very focused and directed. It was very old and powerful dark magic, like she hadn't seen in an age. She rips the collar off the cat letting him fall on the floor and paying him no mind.

the Cheshire Cat: Distracted by the loss of the collar, the cat startles and forgets to land as any cat would, on all fours. Instead he makes a thumping sound when he hits the floor, his paws reaching instictively for the collar he has worn for many decades. "Noooo, you can't take the collar. It's..........Oh, I need it back," he thinks wishing she could understand the collar meant his living or dieing. And if one didn't know better, the cat seemed to whimper and surely there were tears in its eyes.

the Cheshire Cat literally crawled to her, the hairs on his belly rubbing against the flooring. "Give it back," he pleaded in his mind as a cat paw reached out shakily in submission.

Windy Ravenfeather pulls the collar up to her nose and sniffs it, then licks it, as she tries to figure out what she is holding, but it is foreign to her. She hears the cat's whimpering and stares at it with renewed interest and curiosity. "What's the matter with you?" She stares at him in disbelief, then follows his eyes to the collar in her hand. "You want this back, don't you? This was made for YOU, wasn't it?"

the Cheshire Cat mews a bit as he stands to put a leg on hers, his other paw batting at the air trying to get the collar.. "YES, I want it back.And will do virtually anything to get it," he thinks while showing his best feline behavior

Windy Ravenfeather puts the collar closer to the cat almost touching it's fur. "How bad a cat do you have to be to need a binding filled with black magic?" She lets the cat touch the collar momentarily before standing and putting the collar in her pouch. "Oh I think I'll hold onto it for now. There is someone I need to see. I'll find out, once and for all, why you are so damn important."

the Cheshire Cat: "NOOOOOO," the word screams in his mind as she tucks the collar away. And he drops down on all fours, his ears laid back and pads to the darkest place in the room, under the sofa. He curls up, his tongue licking over his legs for a moment before he lays his head down on them, cutting his eyes toward her, "Maybe when she sleeps," he thinks to himself. "I if can get it and get out of here, I will risk those giant spiders of hers."

Windy Ravenfeather watches him scurry under the sofa and grins wickedly. "Yes you stay right there. I'm going to visit a, ummm, enemy of my enemy. Perhaps she'll shine a light on the darkness your collar holds." With that she flies out of her door and into the night sky.

Jaekob Goes Searching for the Cheshire Cat

   Early in the morning, just as the crown of dawn appears on the horizon, the Druid makes his way through the lush forests of Calenhad. He is armed with his elven longbow and the dagger Father had given him so very long ago. He has a rucksack sufficiently stocked with lembas bread, cheese and dry meats. And, of course, healing herbs in case he found the cat in dire need of help.
   Saphira, his trusted friend and ally had recently traveled to Mirkwood and met a rather unsavoury creature - an unseelie. There had been no sight of the kidnapped cat, but if intuition held true, there was some kind of connection and he was going to see for himself. She had warned them all not to venture there, but if he could find the Cheshire Cat, how could he not?

Jaekob Heads Out on his Journey

   As the ship's Captain, steered the small vessel across quiet seas, Mirkwood came into view. He had been musing to himself about the cat and it's importance. Long ago, when he was but a young Druid and still learning his own way, an esteemed teacher had crossed the wrong path and in turn had been turned into a cat. Year's later, as the Druid's skills developed and grew and he prepared to sit off on a journey to new lands, the cat had been put under his protection, "Take the cat with you!" they had told him. "Protect our friend."
   And he did just that. The cat knew only peace and happiness and lived quietly in the gentle surroundings of the port city of Cheshire. THEN, the cat was taken! It's whereabouts unknown.
   The Druid cupped an open hand over his eyes to hide the already bright sun and peered westward as the peaks of Mirkwood grew in front of him. "I will find you, little one. I will find you and bring you home."

Mirkwood Looms in the Distance

Talia Visits Kathena at the Smuggler's Shack

Talia.Sunsong: A curious Fae looks at the door.

Kathena Mavendorf hears movement outside.

Kathena Mavendorf looks out the window and spots a Fae.

Talia.Sunsong flies around the island looking at the objects.

Kathena Mavendorf opens the door just a bit to say hello. "Greetings."

Talia.Sunsong pokes at the fire.

Talia.Sunsong pokes at the door.

Talia.Sunsong: "Greetings!"

Kathena Mavendorf grins looking at the very colorful fae, "Come on in M'Lady."

Talia.Sunsong kicks at swaying door.

Talia and Kathena at the Shack

Kathena Mavendorf narrows her eyes at the Fae, looking her over. "Talia, if I remember correctly from Market, right?"

Talia.Sunsong: "Thank thee! It smells good in here. I am Talia from the market. Good memory."

Kathena Mavendorf giggles softly. "What brings a.....colorful creature as yerself to these parts M'Lady?"

Talia.Sunsong touches hanging herbs.

Talia.Sunsong: "I was looking for ingredients to make into Fairy food."

Kathena Mavendorf watches her with curiosity. "Ye like the herbs M'Lady?"

Kathena Mavendorf: "What kind of ingredients do you need?"

Talia.Sunsong inhales deeply. "It reminds me of the herbs in the Silver Fairyland."

Kathena Mavendorf arches an eyebrow her interest peaked. "Silver Fairyland?"

Talia.Sunsong: "Yes in the other lands."

Talia.Sunsong: "It has beautiful plants, flowers, trees and mushroom houses and treehouse and a castle."

Kathena Mavendorf smiles and can't help but giggle a bit at the enthusiasm of the Fae. "Talia that sounds really lovely!"

Talia.Sunsong: "It's stupendous! I'm learning how to cook fairy food."

Kathena Mavendorf smiles and nods, "I'd love to try some of your cooking. I'm quite fond of the Hobbit's food. I've never had any Fae food though. I'd be quite curious about it."

Kathena Mavendorf: "This Silver Fairyland, is that where you are from?"

Talia.Sunsong: "I want to put lemons and cream together."

Kathena Mavendorf scrunches up her brow, "Won't that curdle the cream? Putting lemon in it?"

Talia.Sunsong: "I'm not sure where I am from originally. I washed up on shore as a baby. Gypsies found me, and took me to the elves, who took me to the Fae."

Talia.Sunsong: "Oh these things are complicated. I wanted to make Lemon Fairy pie."

Kathena Mavendorf grins, "Ah a fellow traveler then."

Kathena Mavendorf snickers, "Do you put Fairy in your pie?"

Talia.Sunsong: "Nahhh then I would get into trouble, why do fairies taste good?"

Kathena Mavendorf laughs, "I haven't the slightest idea. I've never had fairy before."

Kathena and Talia Talk

Talia.Sunsong: "Some nasty creatures eat our wings."

Talia.Sunsong: "But we make sure they don't do it twice."

Kathena Mavendorf frowns, "Yes, I've met some before. They were," pauses taking a deep breath, pain from memories reflected for a moment on her face. "they were less than kind."

Talia.Sunsong: "Curse them, the nasty things."

Kathena Mavendorf nods and smiles.

Talia.Sunsong: "I wont' give them any of my pie."

Kathena Mavendorf laughs, "I'll eat it all!"

Talia.Sunsong: "Good cause I like gypsies, since they were nice to me as a babe."

Talia.Sunsong: "They didnt' throw me into the water."

Talia.Sunsong: "Some say throw a Fae into the water if you find one."

Kathena Mavendorf looks pensive for a moment. "Talia, I am in need of a very rare plant, that I haven't seen in many years. Perhaps you know of it. It's called Faery Rose. Would you happen to have some? I would pay you for a steady supply."

Talia.Sunsong: "I'll bet its in the Fairy lands!"

Kathena Mavendorf: "I never throw anything into the water, if it can be of use.'

Kathena Mavendorf: 'Well if you happen to find it, or anything else that perhaps is unique to your lands, I would be happy to pay you for the supplies.'

Kathena Mavendorf: 'I use unusual ingredients in some of my potions.'

Talia.Sunsong: 'Sun has shined on us. It will be a good bargain.'

Kathena Mavendorf smiles and nods.

Talia.Sunsong pokes herb more.

Kathena Mavendorf extends out her hand, "Shall we shake on it then?"

Talia.Sunsong: 'One flower, two flower, three flower.... Oh, yes," shakes body. "Strange customs you humans have."

Kathena Mavendorf snickers, "Aye we do." Shakes her body as well not wanting to make the Fae uncomfortable.

Talia.Sunsong: "I guess gypsies are used to shaking their bodies, giving all the dancing they do."

Kathena Mavendorf nods, smiling brightly, "I do love to dance. It's a very freeing experience."

Talia.Sunsong nods enthusiastically "Like dancing in the moonlight by the sacred tree."

Kathena Mavendorf eyes glimmer at the thought. "That sounds wonderful!"

Talia.Sunsong: "Then the pixies and sprites come to join."

Kathena Mavendorf makes a funny serious face. "Oh I've heard those are BIG trouble in small packages."

Talia.Sunsong : "Yes, especially when we all get drunk on various substances, like cream or honey."

Kathena Mavendorf laughs.

Kathena Mavendorf: "I'll have to keep those handy here for when you visit."

Talia.Sunsong eyes light up, "Cream!"

Kathena Mavendorf: "I know a Hobbit that might be able to get me some soon. I'll see if he would be able to get me a stock of cream to keep on hand."

Talia.Sunsong jumps up and down "Yes, yes, yes."

Kathena Mavendorf giggles, "Then I shall do just that."

Talia.Sunsong: "Huzzah!"

Kathena Mavendorf smiles brightly, "Thank you so much for visiting. I look forward to seeing you again. I think we will be really great business partners!"

Talia.Sunsong: "It will be glorious! I will go look for the items. Soon, fairy pie."

Kathena Mavendorf giggles, "Excellent! Safe paths Talia."

Talia.Sunsong: "Safe paths," waves and dances out the door.

A New Home Among Friendly Folk: Part One.

Since his arrival in The River Lands on the fourth (but not final) Sunday of August, Tanglefoot BarkFellow had been staying at the Cheshire Cat Inn and living modestly.

His meager savings had trickled away quickly. He needed an occupation, some way of making money.
The concept was quite new to him. In the shire of Burr-Scritch Hollow everyone had bartered goods and services. Coins were rarely seen.

He turned to what he knew best and wandered the woods in search of something useful for his new life in a proper town.
After many days of exploring, climbing trees and peeking in dark places he located a family of goats and convinced them to follow him.

He also located a source of very tasty honey, which would prove useful for the sweets made by Fiesty and Juste.

While Tangles was away, Fiesty became concerned.

The others figured Tangles was off doing Ranger activities and didn't pay much attention.
However, Fiesty had a different view.  Her Hobbit-uition gave her insight.
It was clear things were not going smoothly for the young newcomer.

Also she had caught him bathing in the town fountain, although she pretended not to notice in order to save Tangles from embarrassment.

Tangles in the Fountain

She knew that the young Hobbit was quite capable and might make a living on his own.
But she also saw that he had no sense for managing and saving money.

So, while Tangles was away Fiesty managed to fix up an old Hobbit house that hadn't been used in a long while.
It was dusty and leaky, floorboards creaked, but still worthy of being a home.  She  had the
community Hobbits work on the burrow until it was acceptable
Old  Falco Bolger who lived there previously had long since passed away and no one had claimed the burrow.

Upon his return Tangles felt both elation and puzzlement.  With the goats and honey he could start a small farm and sell foodstuffs in town.
However, he had no place for the goats to graze nor a place for himself to lay his head.

His stomach growled and the goats bleated at him.
Tangles turned this way and that, hoping his padded feet would ponder this problem through for him.

Meanwhile, Fae Talia was swinging atop a nearby tree.

Talia Up a Tree

"Bored, bored, bored", she chimed. "What can I do today to amuse myself?"

From her perch in a tree, Talia spotted Tangles.
"I know what to do!" Talia flew to a large bird's nest, and helped herself to a discarded feather. She tied it to the end of a string.

Tangles and Talia

Talia hid in a tree above the path that Tangles was walking on with his hairy Hobbit feet.
She dangled the feather down and tickled Tangles' nose with it.

Tangles batted the feather away without seeing it, but Talia persisted and tickled some more.
His sensitive Hobbit's nose, made keen by smelling the aroma of so many feasts and delicacies, gave a loud, reverberating sneeze.

He closed his eyes and staggered about from the force of it.

It was at that precise moment that he collided with Fiesty, who had been approaching from the other direction.
A cloud of flour and sugar erupted from the basket she had been carrying.

Talia was doubled-over, laughing at the mischief she had caused.
That is, until she spied the sugar spill from Fiesty's basket.

"Pretty Grains! Must ... know ... how many!"  she gasped as she flew to the sugared patch of ground and began counting.

Talia Counts the Grains

It took Fiesty and Tangles a few moments to gather their wits from the collision and explosion of baking ingredients.

After standing up and brushing themselves off, they watched the Fae obsessively counting each sugar grain.

"Sixteen - maybe there are - Seventeen - wee folk living - Eighteen  - on these grains!"  Talia pondered.

The Hobbits backed away silently.  They thought it best to leave Fae matters alone and not speak of them.

Even the goats left Talia to her counting and quietly moved away a few paces, even though they yearned to lick up the sugar.