Fantasy ~ FableWood ~

[SilverFlight]

Leia watched Leo take a sip of the mysterious drink. She picked up the glass in front of her and tried a sip. It was a little sweet, and felt hot as it trickled down her throat.


"Not bad." She smiled, then lifted her glass to Leo. "Cheers."


perhaps it was the drink, but all of a sudden Leia felt it had gotten colder...


Ward's heart leapt at the sight of Elena enjoying herself so much. At that moment he felt he would do anything to see her smile. He twirled her around and stepped toward her, never falling out of pace with the music. When the tune finally ended he grinned happily.


"That was great fun!...thank you." He realized he was still holding her hands and let them go with a blush. His breath rose in clouds before him...wait.


Ward looked around with a furrowed brow. He wasn't just imagining it. The temperature had plummeted. He looked urgently toward the prince and princess as snow flakes began to drift through the air. Then suddenly a blast of icy wind flew through the open doors and a portal opened to a world covered in winter. Through it a figure galloped, barely making it through before the magic collapsed. In a mass of hooves, antlers and fur a reindeer skidded on the glass-like floor and collided with the bottom of the central staircase.


It righted itself quickly, kicking its legs up and shaking its huge antlers. All eyes were on it now as it shrunk back in a self-conscious way, pulled a rolled piece of paper from its harness and offered it to the princess with a stance of great urgency.


Leia could hardly believe here eyes when an entire reindeer seemed to pop into existence. Snow began to melt on the ballroom floor and a maid rushed out with a cloth to clean it up before someone slipped.


"Uh...this is normal for FableWood right?" She asked Leo, or anyone really.

 

[zCrookedz]

Leos breath began to create clouds as he went to take another sip of his drink. He looked around and viewed the large portal summoning the reindeer to the dance floor. Leo stood, nearly knocking over the table he sat at in his excitement. The portal closed and Leo watched the deer make its way over towards the princess. Hearing leias voice he scooped up Banba and set her on his shoulder, eyes fixated on the events unfolding. "I would not say this is 'normal' anywhere." He gestured for the table to follow him as he made his way closer to the dance floor, close to where Ward and Elena had just finished dancing. When he was within ear shot of Ward he quietly spoke as to not start any type of panic. "My lord, why is a deer of ice and snow here?"

 

[Bea Delaine]

Elena savored the last moments of the dance. Enjoying being in the others company more than she originally thought, she didn't want to pull away. When she finally did it was to rub her suddenly chilled arms. Ward seemed alarmed as well, seeing his own breath. Turning to follow his gaze, she watched a strong but nervous creature enter, clapping its hooves on the floor.


She cast Ward a look of concern and asked softly.


"Is that a reindeer..?"

 

[Lioness075]

Luness suddenly brushed past Nyr, dropping to all fours and sprinting after Leo. There was no way she was about to let some raven-human being dump a bunch of water onto her. The fear of such a thing hit Luness hard and she scrambled through the gardens, skidding to a halt at the entrance to this party. Standing up on her hind legs, Luness tried her best to fit in as she entered the party.


Yet, within seconds, Luness realized she was horribly underdressed. Men and women alike along with some magical beings were wearing elegant attire around her, and Luness suddenly became highly conscious of the bits of dirt and such clinging to her fur. Sighing, Luness headed straight for the food and grabbed the first piece of meat she saw, eating it and then eating another. Picking up a glass of water, Luness saw a portal in her peripherals and looked up sharply to watch a reindeer come crashing through the portal. Feeling the temperature around her dropping, Luness was at least content with the fact that her fur was thick enough to keep her warm regardless. Sipping on her new cooled water, Luness watched everything unfolding with a strong sense of curiosity. Why was a reindeer here?

 

[Jecklyn]

Banba had finished the sweet in a matter of bites, poking her head above the bun to get a sense of her surroundings. She was probably the last one to notice the dropping temperature and only saw the Reindeer when Leo picked her up and put her on his shoulder. She sat quietly as Leo approached Ward, but stared at the new creature. When it made eye co tact with her, her gleeful state returned and she bounced off Leo's shoulder, landing as a second reindeer.


"Beast friend! Beast friend!" She said, nipping gently at the other animal's pelt.

 

[Flutterby]

Quincy turned her head saucily to look at him. “No one has ever accused me of being kind before!" She exclaimed playfully, grinning wickedly, her humor mostly meant to amuse herself. She fingered the leather necklace she wore, the one that changed to a bridle in her true form, pondering his last sentence. “I fear we look foolish not dancing," She said, as by now nearly all the people in the hall were dancing, save the few that were sitting to eat and drink. “But in a dance, it is more of the partner than of the skill." She said, painfully aware that the sentence had been awkwardly worded, but unsure of how to correct it. Scowling at it, she added, “With the right partner, you would appear as graceful as you do in the sky." The compliment was offered in an off-handed way, as it were merely a fact. To Quincy, it was. Words were odd, cumbersome things. Her thoughts were cut awfully short by the drop in temperature, something horribly uncomfortable to her. The appearance of a reindeer plunged her into confusion; she was unfamiliar with such large and furry deer.

 

[SilverFlight]

"It is a reindeer." Ward stated, as if he needed convincing of the fact himself. "I think we will soon find out why he is here."


Princess Briar read through the letter quickly, prince Fior reading it over her shoulder.


When Banba came nipping at the animal's pelt he sidled nervously. Seemingly not wanting to appear rude, but suddenly very wary of the shape changer. The princess exchanged glances with the prince.


"Everyone, we have a guest from the Winter Wilds. Please continue the celebration!" After stating this she beckoned to Ward and the others gravely.


She led the reindeer and the humans and guardians out onto a secluded part of the patio.


"This is a letter from the Snow Queen." She held up the parchment. "It brings very grave news. It says that a new evil has invaded her land"


"Invaded? But that land is near impossible to lay claim to, only the Snow Queen has the skill to rule there." Ward thought out loud.


"There is a castle, long abandoned that has been claimed by this evil as a place to keep a stolen artifact...The Wolfbane Chalice." the gryphon's blank expression made her continue.


"The Chalice is a very powerful magical artifact, that when filled with purified water can inhibit the feral instincts of those of FableWood who would otherwise be slaves to them."


"Were-beasts and shape-shifters." Ward finished for her.


"Without the Chalice every changeling in FableWood will begin to lose their reason, and control over their animal sides."


Leia listened intently and spoke at that moment. "That sounds like something really bad."


"If we don't reclaim the Chalice many innocent lives will be in danger," The princess rolled the paper again and thanked the reindeer messenger.


"Please, my friends, you have done so much for my kingdom, I will make preparations for your travel. Anyone who wishes to stay here is welcome."


"Are you kidding? This sounds serious." Leia said. "I'm still not convinced I'm the best person for the job, but if what we did in the mirror forest is anything to go by, I think we've got a shot."


Ward nodded. "I cannot stand idly by while my home is threatened."


Princess Briar smiled gratefully. "Then please enjoy the rest of the ball. I will take care of everything."


 
((New location added: The Winter Wilds))

 

[Bea Delaine]

Elena grew deeply concerned. The atmosphere changed in a matter of seconds. When the Princess spoke again, fear struck her. Elena listened in. More dark forces, were animals.. She was not scared, merely confused and concerned. If this was such a great place, what was this force? Could they attack it at its roots?


Elena nodded solemnly. She would help. Standing before her companions and the princess, she nodded in agreement.


"I will also help in any way I can.. It's why us humans are here.. Right?"

 

[Lioness075]

When everyone was ushered outside, Luness tagged along since she was more or less a part of the group now. Listening to everything said, Luness didn't care too much until the artifact was mentioned and she quickly realized that it could heavily affect her. Growling at this, Luness took a step forward and said in her raspy tone, "We need to retrieve this Chalice as soon as possible." Not that Luness cared for the other shapeshifters or were-beasts, but she was not one to take kindly to being anyone's slave or prisoner. There was no way that she was going to stand for this. Looking around at the group of people that Luness mostly didn't know, her green and golden eyes flashed angrily, rather obviously showing Luness' dislike for such a dangerous artifact.

 

[Flutterby]

Quincy listened to the first announcement, drawing close when the princess gestured and glancing back to see if Alexander would also follow. Having only one friend in the group so far, she didnt want to go alone. Her expression flitted between confusion, uncertainty, and, finally, fear and cautious interest. Her gaze slid to Alexander, slowly, as if she was unsure of her right to look to him. “You will accompany them?" She whispered to him, keeping her face void of anything that might sway his answer. In the back of her mind, she held onto the thought that maybe she would go to, but a larger part said she may be too much of a danger, to the humans especially.

 

[Hel]

"Well, perhaps we-" Alexander's response was cut short by the sudden entrance of a reindeer. He wandered closer, himself, curious as to what brought the creature here. Alexander did not trail behind Quincy, as he too had moved nearer for the announcement. "I should like to," Alexander replied, after the announcement. "Will you?" After she replied, he moved to follow the group following the princess. He stayed quite to the princesses request, if Quincy planned to go, then he suspected that he, too, would go. He did not like the snow and ice, but he could be of some use if the fragile ones were to find themselves stranded without shelter in the winter storms.


Anya, too, followed the group and listened. When Leia spoke, her comment made Anya wonder if this arrangement was to be permanent- she almost made it sound like the humans were here to stay. "If I can help, I suppose I will. I was never a fan of laying around while others were working." Anya said, pushing her hair back behind her ear.

 

[zCrookedz]

Leo followed the others out to the balcony after ushering Banba to quit harassing the poor reindeer. The news of the Winter Wilds was something disconcerting. When travelers sought safe passages through his woods, they would often talk about the Winter Wilds. The things they had to say about the land of ice and snow where not things of comfort. Snow storms that lasted for extensive periods of time, cold nights that would freeze a fire nymph to the core in a matter of minutes, and monsters that were so terrifying many would say they would track people down for days if they made it into the lands. When the princess began to talk of the chalice, Leo's heart skipped a beat. Something that powerful in the hands of evil in the world, if they did not find it, Fablewood would be in serious trouble. Leo raise his hand "Princess, i will accompany Ward and the others." He was not about to stay behind and not help.

 

[Flutterby]

Quincy took a moment to answer Alexander, unsure of how to. “I wish to, but I worry I would be more trouble than help, if this Chalise were to affect me." She said thoughtfully, watching the reactions of the others. “There is a way to prevent it but.." Her eyes narrowed as she hesitated, trying to decide how much to say. “..it is not ideal." She finished abruptly, glancing at him quickly. How much information should I share? She wasnt sure of the answer. “And I don't enjoy cold." She added. The princess wished them to return to the ball, but the festive mood had mostly left Quincy; having such a thing hanging over her head made dancing and sweets seem altogether useless, even as a distraction.

 

[Hel]

"What do you mean?" Alexander asked Quincy. He hadn't thought that it may effect him, but at Quincy's worry he wondered. 'I am a dragon first, I always have been, and my human side is no different. Besides, it is far too new to be separated from whatever feral instincts the princess spoke of.' He decided, 'So I doubt it will effect me, but...' Alexanders eyes watched the kelpie intently, waiting for a response. Usually he loved riddles and puzzles, but for this one, he needed some more. "Although, from what the princess said, the effects of such an artifact will likely be felt across the land, not only in its presence.

 

[Flutterby]

Quincy frowned, fingering the band around her throat. “A kelpie is first a horse, but not a nice riding pony. We, er, they entice humans to mount them, and once the humans are stuck on their backs, they drown them and then eat them." She explained briefly, looking down at the floor. “It was not easy to learn to control that instinct. I learned it in this form, and forced it into the other. To say it was a struggle is not enough. What if this chalise undoes that? It might not be wise to take that risk when our world depends on these humans." She said worriedly. “I know it shouldn't, but so much is happening that shouldn't, I'm just not sure." She looked back up, shrugging lamely. It seemed silly when voiced aloud, but in her mind there was real fear that she would be taken over by the darkness and hurt the ones needed to save their home.

 

[Naeg1]

Following the group, Zelnite listed. "If this chalice does take control over shapeshifters, then our team would have a serious disadvantage, we need some sort of counter if it can do that" Zelnite continued. "I never stepped foot in the iceland so I dont know what to expect"

 

[Hel]

Alexander nodded, he reached out and touched her shoulder, gently, unsure if that was an acceptable action. Words and languages he understood, niceties and social nuances escaped him frequently. "I suppose that is a fear that all have, but if it is any comfort, it seems everyone has some instincts they would rather not act upon. I cannot speak for others, but that is what I've learned through observation..." He paused, feeling his advice was not very helpful, he added, "Let us hope these humans are more clever than the ones your kin trick, shall we? If we do decide to go, I will make sure you do not hurt them, and that no one hurts you, if you would like." He offered, finally feeling that that was what he was going for this whole time. Alexander smiled at Quincy, trying to be reassuring.

 

[Flutterby]

The girl looked at his hand for a second, surprised by his touch. His hand was warm, but not uncomfortably so. It brought a small smile to her face as she moved her eyes back up and he spoke again. His advice was general and did little to really comfort her, until he added to it. Quincy blinked, the offer catching her off guard. “I.." The words stopped in her throat, and instead she said, “Thank you." His kindness touched her more than she would've expected. “That means more to me than I can bear to admit." She murmured, smiling back without thinking about it.

 

[chamomile]

Lexi, beeming with some sort of Scottish pride as she claimed, nodding before puffing her chest to repeat the process of presenting her modest name. "Nice ta meet ye Ashley!" she said, struggling slightly at the pronunciation of the pregnant woman's name. "Oh yes, my name is Rachel Lex-" but before Lexi could rightfully continue her sentence, a reindeer appeared with snow all around it that matches her hair. The air seemed much more cooler but other than goosebumps along her arms and her hands hugging herself, Lexi could say it felt normal.


The creature seemed dressed to be a Christmas prop. The ones that Lexi always see in front of her local mall when it was the jolly ol' season. But whatever the case, Lexi seem to feel fond of such creature, immediately following the princess out to a deserted patio where they are to discuss current matter. At the mention of "snow", Lexi got excited. It does snow in where she live (Ireland) and every time when it actually did, she would had the most fun all year by building snow mans and snowball fight with her friends. Due to Lexi's complete cluelessness, she didn't dare to comment her concern but she will definitely tag along, determined to prove herself on this new quest. "I want to help too..." Lexi whispered in an inaudible tone.


But to prove herself, she need to know how to actually protect herself instead of using her useless flute. Speaking of her flute, Lexi haven't seen it since she woke up in that mirror forest. She made a quick mental note to mention it to one of the maids and if it's gone lost, surely there should be other instruments this land could offer. Maybe she could ask the gryphon, Ward to teach her something that she would need to know on the journey. After all, the guy seemed like he could be a leader.

 

[SilverFlight]

The princess thanked them again and left, calling for Trindle, the weapons master dwarf and several tailors to re-fit the garments they would need for the cold weather.


Ward watched her go, brow furrowed at this new problem.


"I suppose we can do nothing but wait until preparations have been made. To visit the Winter Wilds without supplies would be unwise." The place was formidable to be sure, and dangerous for the inexperienced, but it was also a place of great beauty and magic. The Snow Queen did not associate with the inhabitants that much, but she did protect the land well. It worried him even further to know that there was a dark force even she could not expel from there.


"Don't worry." He reassured the girls. "There will be many allies in the Winter Wilds as well. I am sure we will not be alone in this fight."


Zelnite had brought up an excellent point. Banba was a shape-shifter, and he overheard the kelpie's worries as well.


He stopped one of the servants and spoke to him in a quiet tone.


"Please talk to Grendwen about our new dilemma and ask if he can make inhibitor charms, they may help." The servant nodded and hurried off.


"Grendwen is a wizard employed by princess Briar." He explained unprompted, "If anyone can come up with something that will help the members of our party it would be him."


Ward moved closer to the ballroom doors, but lingered outside, unsure of how to wait. He found himself worrying about Elena. She'll be fine you worrywart he scolded himself. He felt protective of all the humans, but for some reason his thoughts were drawn to her the most. He tried to watch the dancers in the ballroom to distract his mind.


The reindeer wandered over to a table and helped himself to a bowl of blueberries.


Leia saw the look on Lexi's face. "Hey, wanna choose a weapon? The forge room here has swords and bows and stuff that train you. In fact, I'm sure Grumpy, er, Trindle wouldn't mind if we just go choose something."


@GiannaCoco

 

[DawnAntalios]

Nyr - seeing how others have departed - landed on the floor and put her wings at ease. She thanked the winds for their aid then walked towards the castle. Slowly she made her way to the gigantic palace and she peeked in to the ball room. What she saw was one of the most beautiful sights she had ever seen.


In fact it was too beautiful. Looking down at her black lolita dress she frowned sadly: this was hardly a fitting attire for such occasions, and on top of that she was late as well. Making one last longing look at the gigantic room she backed away from the elegant sight and headed back to the gardens.


She was a bit puzzled. Their numbers swelled so quickly... she did not expect to meet this many people so fast. She felt left out once more, at least for the moment being so she chose solitude to be her companion. She sat down on the lush green grass, closed her eyes and started meditating.

 

[SilverFlight]

Ward noticed the dread raven had been absent for a long time, we walked over to her and sat down beside her.


"Not one for parties? He asked in a kind tone." The raven had been with them right from the beginning and he considered her a fast friend now. She had her own ways of being and he respected that.


"I'm afraid there is grave news..." he began to tell her of the arrival of The Snow Queen's messenger and that the Wolfbane Chalice, the object that allowed all changelings to control their feral sides had been stolen and hidden away deep within the Winter Wilds.


"I hope that when preparations are finished you will come with us. I have a feeling we will need your strength. For now however, would you like to accompany me back to the ball?" He offered her his arm in a gentlemanly fashion.


@DawnAntalios

 

[DawnAntalios]

She looked at him with a grateful smile. She always knew she could rely on him ever since they first met. He was one of the kindest people around.


" I am at your service. " she said warmly " You know that if it is a battle to be fought you can count on me. "


When she heard him wanting to go back to the ball she blushed.


" I... do not belong there I believe. " she said ashamed " I am not really elegant and nor are my clothes... "

 

[SilverFlight]

"You sell yourself short Nyr, and you sell your dress short too." the gryphon chuckled, then he leaned back, looking at her with a mock-judging expression, he smiled after that and nodded. "Nope, I see elegance aplenty."


He stood up and took hold of her hand gently to help her rise.


"Far better than me anyways in this ridiculous costume." He had almost forgotten they had made him change, the pristine white suit with gold trim and black collar and lace at his throat. He felt ridiculous.

Spoiler

 

[DawnAntalios]

She blushed again as she took his hand and raised from he round. After inspecting him for a few moments she was simply amazed.


" You look marvelous. " she managed to say " Beautiful even... "


She quickly realized her audacity and now her entire head turned red. She tried to cough to cover up everything and finally she looked at him.


" Well then, Lord Ward, please lead the way. " she said trying to sound serious.