Main Quest Quarter 2 (Graded) (Must-Do Activities to Progress)

Welcome to the Main Quest! These are the self-paced activities you'll be completing to progress at The Academy for the 2nd Quarter of the school year. This is not all you will be doing in day-to-day classes, but you'll have time specifically set-aside to work on these. Every "Quest," "Training Session," "Monster Hunt," and "Weekly Sparring Session," will earn you XP, or experience in your path of study. 

These points are also an easy way to follow your grade in this part of the class. Anything over 140XP = 100% in this part of your grade. You can earn up to 150XP this quarter in the Main Quest, so you'll need to complete almost every activity. You can monitor your progress and grade by following your chart on Google Classroom! 

Quest #1: Academy Architecture

Bard students at The Academy possess a unique blend of talents. Beyond their musical prowess, they have a keen sense of artistry and design. Their knowledge, drawn from the revered architectural masters of the past, makes them invaluable when it comes to shaping the Academy's environment. As a new structure is planned, these Bards have been sought out for their expertise. Entrusted with the task of blending historical inspiration with modern needs, they're eager to contribute, ensuring that the new edifice reflects both the Academy's heritage and its forward-thinking vision. 

Your picture must have color!

(Hint: Look through some of the sparring sessions and other pictures we have for inspiration, most show the inside of places. What would the outside look like?)

Quest #2: Mystery Quest - Student Reading

Amidst the rigorous training and studies, students of The Academy find solace and inspiration in the age-old tales of heroism and valor. Diverse in scope and transcending class boundaries, these stories serve as a beacon, illuminating the ideals that the Academy cherishes. From audacious Bards to tenacious Knights, each tale is a testament to the indomitable spirit, reminding scholars of the heights they too might reach in their own journeys.

Note: This Quest will be completed in-class over several weeks. You may have to read some for homework if you do not complete in class. NOTE: This quest begins at the same time the assignment starts for all other students in the school. 

Quest #3: Mystery Quest - Student Writing

At the midpoint of their Academy year, an enigmatic task awaits every student. More than a mere exam or written assignment, it's a rite of passage, veiled in mystery, beckoning students to plumb the depths of their understanding. The true nature of this challenge remains concealed, but one thing is certain: one's grasp of their class and knowledge acquired will be thoroughly tested. It's whispered that this test not only gauges academic prowess but something deeper within each scholar.

Note: This Quest will be completed in-class. You will not have to work on this for homework. 

Training Session #1 - AH 1.9 - Visual Artists #2 Part 2

You did it! You completed your first quarter of training at the Academy and leveled up your skills in a class. You decide to begin Quarter 2 training as a member of the Bard class. 

As you are no longer an initiate at The Academy and have become a full-fledged member, you join other students of your class to listen to the opening speech from the Bard Grandmaster, the most powerful Bard at The Academy, (and likely on the western continent as a whole.)

He notes that much of his attention, and the attention of the other highest trainers and masters of The Academy is focused on investigating a growing threat across the Eastern Ocean. Since the most powerful members of The Academy are investigating this mysterious threat, they task you and the other first-year students with investigating a threat closer to home.

A strange corruption has begun to take root in the forest surrounding The Academy. Each class will tackle a separate issue while simultaneously training to discover the reason the forest grows darker and more threatening. 

All First-Year Students 🍄will battle the strange new corrupted monsters of the forest in order to keep the Academy and nearby lands safe. 

Members of the Bard Class 🎵 will do what they can to protect the wildlife of the forest this quarter. While this may seem a task more suited for members of the Ranger Class, or Beastmasters, Bards will protect the wildlife as a whole.

Members of the Beastmaster Class 🐍 will try to use their bonds with creatures to try to learn what they can from the strange creatures and corrupted wildlife.

Members of the Knight Class ⚔️ will try to keep the peace within and outside the walls of The Academy. This strange new evil is unsettling the people, and it is up to them to make sure the peaceful lives of the citizens are not interrupted.

Members of the Ranger Class 🏹will be studying the strange chemical composition of the corruption threatening the forest in an attempt to discover a remedy for the parts already negatively impacted.

Members of the Magician Class 🧙will be attempting to unseal a strange door deep within one of the most dangerous parts of the corrupted forest, to hopefully uncover a hidden source of the problem.

Good Luck!


Training Session #2 - AH 1.10 - Architecture Part 1

The sun shone brightly, filtering through the canopy of leaves overhead. Birds chirped their melodies, blending seamlessly with the soothing chords of your lute. As a Bard, your role was unique among The Academy's many classes. Beyond mere entertainment, your songs held a magic of their own — a magic that could heal wounds, bolster spirits, and shield against harm.

You journeyed with a scouting party made up of members from various classes: Knights, Magicians, Rangers, and Beastmasters. Each brought their unique skills to the group, and yours was a blend of melody and magic. With every note played, you could mend cuts, soothe frayed nerves, or even bolster strength.

But the deeper you ventured into the forest, the more dissonant your tunes began to feel. Vibrant green leaves now bore an ashen tint. The forest's critters, usually drawn to your melodies, were eerily absent, replaced by a haunting silence.

A strum went astray, a finger missing its mark. Before you was a meadow, its life essence fading. Blackened flowers, wilted grass, and trees with tar-oozing bark stood as testament to the forest's affliction.

"It's the corruption," murmured Luna, a Magician of your party, her tone laced with both anger and sorrow. "It's advancing quicker than we feared."

Training Session #3 - AH 1.11 - Architecture Part 2

Days have passed since the expedition into the heart of the afflicted forest. Armed with the knowledge of your music's newfound power against the corruption, you've aligned yourself with a task force dedicated to repelling this sinister force. Comprised of Knights wielding enchanted blades, Magicians casting powerful wards, Rangers skilled in alchemy, and Beastmasters communicating with wildlife, the group was a formidable force.

Your role in this eclectic ensemble was clear: to strum strings and weave magic into melodies, creating barriers that deterred the spreading corruption and enhanced the might of your allies. The effect was undeniable; every time you played, the dark tendrils of corruption seemed to recoil, if only slightly, as if your melodies pained them.

One day, as you and the group carved a path through a particularly dense part of the woods, you stumbled upon a peculiar sight: a lone nest nestled on a low branch. It was tainted by the corruption, the once-golden twigs and leaves now a sickly shade of black and purple. But what drew your attention was the single egg it cradled, similarly marred by the corruption, pulsating ominously.

Bob, a seasoned Beastmaster of the group, approached cautiously. "This isn't natural," he murmured, his eyes locked on the egg. "We've seen more and more creatures manifesting heightened aggression and power recently. I've long suspected the corruption was to blame."

Training Session #4 - AH 1.12 - Famous Composers Part 1

In the midst of the relentless struggle against the corruption, the Bard class recognized the significance of solace and solidarity. Where others might see a cease in battle as a moment of weakness, Bards understood its true power: rejuvenation for the soul and reinforcement of bonds.

A gathering was called in the heart of The Academy, within the Hall of Harmonies - a grand chamber where every note echoed and amplified, touching the very core of every listener. Bards from every year, be it wide-eyed freshmen or seasoned seniors, assembled. It was an unusual sight to see them all together, given their frequent travels and assignments.

As voices and instruments melded, a tangible magic enveloped the hall. The melodies felt almost palpable, wrapping around each individual, lifting spirits and mending the cracks that the fight against corruption had caused in their hearts. The resonance of their collective music seemed to extend beyond the hall, casting a protective and healing aura over The Academy.

Training Session #5 - AH 1.13 - Famous Composers Part 2

As a Bard, you've always believed in the power of stories. They connect people, convey emotions, and often lead to insights or solutions. And now, it was time to collect those tales from every corner of The Academy and its surroundings.

The Arbor, home of the Rangers, was abuzz with activity. Their lab equipment, spread out among the giant roots, was constantly beeping and bubbling. The first-year rangers were like busy bees, dashing around, taking notes, and debating their findings. You played a tune, capturing the essence of their dedication, commitment, and the underlying tension. They shared their stories and findings about the corruption, giving you much to ponder.

The Market, guarded by the resolute Knights, was a mix of routine and the occasional chaos. Between keeping order and defending against the creeping corruption, they had their hands full. The Knights spoke of their daily challenges, of having to balance defense and diplomacy, and of the complex interplay of the various classes in these trying times.

A passing Ranger, with a hint of annoyance in his voice, mentioned the Magicians. "They're off on some wild goose chase, trying to unlock some ancient door in the forest. I don’t understand their obsession," he muttered. You strummed your lute, capturing his frustration and the Magicians' air of mystery.

Yet, amidst these tales, one puzzle remained – the absence of the grandmasters and high leaders of The Academy. Why were they so fixated on distant shores when the threat was right here? As you looked around, seeing everyone working together, fighting together, you couldn't help but wonder if there was a bigger picture, a grand plan that was beyond the understanding of the students and teachers.

Training Session #6 - AH 1.14 - American Composers Part 1

The gentle hum of your lute provided a soft soundtrack to the patrol, but its tune faltered as you observed the transformed fauna before you. The forest had always been a place of wonder, but now, it was also one of uncertainty and eeriness.

The deer, creatures you've seen countless times before, now bore an unfamiliar visage. Their once sleek bodies were entwined with sinister-looking vines, moving as if they had a mind of their own. Each coil, each twist, seemed synchronized, a choreography of nature tainted by the corruption.

As you approached, there was no fear in their eyes. Instead, there was an emptiness, a void, as if their very essence had been replaced or overshadowed by the corruption. It was heart-wrenching to witness. These gentle creatures, which once bounded with grace and energy, now ambled with a peculiar rhythm, synchronized with the beat of the corruption.

You played a tune on your instrument, a melodic attempt to reach out to them, to break through the veil that had taken them. The music swirled around the creatures, intertwining with the dark aura that surrounded them. For a moment, there was a flicker in their eyes, a brief acknowledgment, before it was overtaken by the emptiness once more.

Training Session #7 - AH 1.15 - American Composers Part 2

The sun was setting, casting a gentle golden hue over the Academy grounds, when you, the Bard, found yourself sitting beside a campfire with several students from other classes. The evening's atmosphere was one of camaraderie, as tales of adventures and curiosities from various parts of the forest were shared.

Amidst the laughter and playful jests, a Beastmaster student named Lior began to speak. The chatter died down as everyone sensed the gravity in his voice. With a deep breath, he recounted how his animal companion, a hawk named Talon, had recently been acting strangely. One evening, as Talon perched upon Lior's arm, he began to chirp in an odd, rhythmic pattern. With the connection between Beastmaster and companion being so profound, Lior could sense fragmented images and emotions from Talon - visions of a deep, dark part of the forest and overwhelming feelings of unease.

The most unsettling part was a phrase, repeated like a haunting echo in Talon's mind: "The Harbinger of the Mired Gaze."

This tale resonated deeply within you. You felt an inexplicable pull, an urge to uncover the mystery behind this Harbinger. Your nights became filled with melodies inspired by Lior's account, as your lute seemed to echo the same haunting refrain. Days were spent in the Academy's vast library, pouring over ancient scrolls and manuscripts, seeking any mention of this ominous being.

As weeks went by, your obsession grew. No longer content with just reading about the Harbinger, you decided to venture deep into the forest, hoping that your music could perhaps unravel the mystery. With lute in hand and courage in heart, you set out, drawn to the haunting allure of the Harbinger of the Mired Gaze, unaware of the challenges and revelations that awaited.

Training Session #8 - AH 1.16 Instruments Part 1

The forest was dark and foreboding, but you, the Bard, walked with purpose, your heart echoing the melody that had become the song of your obsession. Each step was guided by the notes, which seemed to draw you closer and closer to the heart of the corruption: The Harbinger of the Mired Gaze.

It didn't take long before the woods around you seemed to thicken and distort, the trees bearing the unmistakable mark of corruption. The very air felt oppressive, and your song began to waver in the overwhelming presence of the malevolent force.

Then, emerging from the murk was the Harbinger itself – the undulating mass of shadowy hair with that one restless, malevolent eye. The Academy guards with you braced themselves, weapons drawn. With each chord you played, you felt a faint pushback against the creature's oppressive force, but it was clear that this was a losing battle.

Just when all seemed lost, a powerful roar echoed through the woods. From the trees, Joey, the Exalted Herald of the Doom Glove, burst into the clearing. The massive kangaroo, with an agility and strength that belied his title, charged at the Harbinger. Each powerful leap and blow from the kangaroo, trained and amplified by his unique skills and enchanted gloves, pummeled the creature relentlessly.

With one final, resonant note from your lute and a mighty kick from the kangaroo, the Harbinger was finally vanquished, dissipating into a thick, dark mist that was quickly carried away by the wind.

As the dust settled, Joey approached you. In his paw, he held a ruby-red gem, pulsating with an inner light. Handing it to you, he simply said, "This is all that remains of the beast." Before you could utter a word of thanks or ask any questions, Joey bounded off, leaving you with the gem and a mystery yet to be unraveled.

Monster Hunt #1 

Opponent: The Searing Spore Spheres

In the undergrowth of the forest, Bard students might stumble upon the mesmerizing dance of the Searing Spore Spheres. These vibrant, oozing formations of orange and red fungi roll and bubble, pulsating with an eerie life of their own. But these are no ordinary fungi. When disturbed, they release a cacophonous discord that disrupts the harmonies wielded by Bards. These bards must fine-tune their enchanted instruments, seeking the perfect melody to counteract and quell the disruptive power of these creeping fungal orbs. Facing the Searing Spore Spheres, Bard students are reminded that, in the world of music, even the most jarring dissonance can be transformed into harmonious victory.

Monster Hunt #2 

Opponent: The Masked Myco-Mimic

Amidst the moss-covered roots and leafy underbrush, the Masked Myco-Mimic stands deceptively still. This diminutive mushroom, adorned with a vivid red cap, hides a peculiar secret behind its pristine white mask. When Bards approach, the mask emits hauntingly beautiful melodies, attempting to ensnare and hypnotize with its siren song. But this is a trap, luring the unsuspecting closer to its toxic spores. Bard students must quickly discern and replicate the Myco-Mimic's tune, crafting an enchanting counter-melody to neutralize its beguiling call. Encountering the Masked Myco-Mimic, Bards hone their ears and wits, understanding that in the forest, even the most enchanting tunes can conceal perilous intentions.

Monster Hunt #3 

Opponent: The Thorned Skulkbeast

In the moonlit clearings of the forest, the Thorned Skulkbeast prowls, its silhouette a bizarre combination of antelope's grace, rabbit's nimbleness, and hedgehog's spiky defense. But what truly captures one's attention is its skeletal, haunting face—a sharp contrast to its otherwise organic ensemble. Quick on its feet and with the ability to roll into a protective, spiky ball, it charges at threats with surprising speed. Bard students encountering this creature must cleverly utilize their melodies to distract, disarm, or disorient the Skulkbeast, reminding them that versatility is key when facing the unpredictable challenges of the wild.

Monster Hunt #4 

Opponent: The Gleeful Spikecap Critter

Hidden amongst the foliage, the Gleeful Spikecap Critter is a sight that might initially warm the heart. Petite in stature with luminous yellow eyes that seem to hold the world's joy, its cheerful disposition can easily deceive an observer. But its head, crowned with tiny spikes and its unsettlingly large smile, hint at its mischievous nature. Quick and nimble, this critter often tries to outmaneuver and befuddle its adversaries, using its infectious cheer as a deceptive tactic. Bard students, upon meeting this creature, are reminded that appearances can be deceiving and that in the heart of the forest, even the most delightful presence may hold hidden intentions.

Monster Hunt #5

Opponent: The Mystic Skeletal Sage

From the tranquil clearings of the forest emerges the Mystic Skeletal Sage, an intriguing figure of animated bones clasping a staff engraved with ancient runes. Its hollow eye sockets glow with a gentle blue luminescence, signifying the old magic that grants it movement. With a wave of its staff, the Sage can conjure mystical barriers and cast gentle binding spells. Bard students, encountering this enigmatic being, must harmonize their melodies to navigate the sage's magical challenges, discovering that music and ancient magic can dance in unison, each respecting the other's craft.

Monster Hunt #6 

Opponent: The Armored Pipsqueak

Scampering among the leaves and underbrush, the Armored Pipsqueak is an adorable sight at first glance. With its soft brown fur and oversized black eyes that seem to capture the very essence of innocence, it might be mistaken for a mere woodland critter. But atop its tiny head sits a distinct spiked helmet, a testament to its warrior spirit. Quick and agile, this pint-sized opponent darts around, using its helmet for surprise headbutts. Bard students, encountering this charming adversary, are reminded of the forest's playful challenges and that size isn't always indicative of might.

Monster Hunt #7 

Opponent: The Scaled Fangwolf

Lurking amidst the dense thickets and shadowed underpasses, the Scaled Fangwolf is a creature that even the bravest of heroes approach with caution. Its powerful build, clad in dark brown fur, is reinforced with shimmering, impenetrable scales that deflect both weapon and magic alike. The gleam of its enormous fangs promises a deadly bite, while its intense gaze betrays its predatory intelligence. Fast on its feet and relentless in pursuit, the Scaled Fangwolf is a testament to the forest's raw, untamed power. Bard students, facing this formidable beast, must summon all their courage, skill, and harmony to stand their ground against such a fierce adversary.

Monster Hunt #8 

Opponent: The Harbinger of the Mired Gaze

Emerging from the most corrupted parts of the forest, where trees wither and rivers run stagnant, is the Harbinger of the Mired Gaze. An almost ethereal entity, it is an immense, undulating mass of shadowy hair, within which a single, restless eye rolls and searches, reflecting the malice of a greater evil force it heralds. From this ominous figure, a dark fog seeps, tainting the air and ground it touches.

Facing such an overwhelming adversary, Bard students find themselves outmatched and underprepared. But they are not alone. As they step forward with the backing of the Academy guards, they use their melodies to amplify the guards' strength, resilience, and spirit. Together, in harmonious collaboration, they confront the Harbinger, fighting not just an enemy, but the very decay consuming the forest they hold dear. This formidable encounter teaches Bard students the importance of unity and the power of combined strength in the face of overwhelming odds.

Weekly Sparring Session #1

Get ready for the first sparring session of the quarter, set to take place in a serene stone circle deep within the untouched part of the autumnal forest. As the foliage turns brilliant hues of orange, gold, and red, the ring provides the perfect backdrop for students from various classes to showcase their combat skills. Not just about individual prowess, this session is an opportunity to demonstrate the collaborative techniques developed with peers. Emphasis will be on teamwork, adaptability, and understanding the surroundings. The natural uneven ground of the stone ring promises to challenge balance and dexterity. So, as leaves turn and the season shifts, come witness a display of martial prowess amidst the beauty we're all striving to protect.

Weekly Sparring Session #2

Step into our converted theater space for the next sparring session, where the grandeur of dramatics meets the thrill of combat. Boasting multi-level platforms and rigged pulley systems, Magicians may find the elevated spaces advantageous for channeling spells from a distance. Knights, on the other hand, will need to navigate the tight corridors backstage, potentially limiting their mobility. Rangers, with their keen senses, could make the most of the shadowy wings and props. Beastmasters, watch your animal companions with the stage mechanisms! It's a setting where theatrical finesse can be as crucial as martial skill. Don't miss this blend of drama and duel!

Weekly Sparring Session #3

Head over to the bustling Market for a sparring session with a twist: this is a battle not of swords, but of words! As students stand atop wooden crates and beckon the crowd, they must weave tales, pitch ideas, and entertain an eager audience of townsfolk. While Bards may have an edge with their musical background, Magicians could captivate with a sprinkling of minor spells to emphasize their points. Rangers, with their firsthand tales from the forest, have countless adventures to recount. Knights, embodying valor and chivalry, can narrate tales of bravery. Who will win the crowd's favor and be deemed the most entertaining? Join us and be swept up in the oratory combat!

Weekly Sparring Session #4

Venture to the testing grounds for a high-octane sparring session against the Clockwork Beasts of Alev! Crafted with precision by the ingenious Gnomes, these mechanical marvels are as beautiful as they are deadly. With spinning gears, sharpened claws, and steam-driven agility, each beast offers a unique challenge. Students will compete to see who can dismantle the most machines without suffering a scratch. Beastmasters may find their animal companions invaluable for distraction, while Magicians could exploit elemental vulnerabilities in the metal. Knights will rely on their sheer strength and combat prowess, and Rangers may take advantage of their sharpshooting skills. As the gears grind and steam hisses, who will emerge as the ultimate Clockwork Conqueror? Join us and witness the metallic mayhem!

Weekly Sparring Session #5

Prepare for an epic showdown within the Academy's most illustrious setting: the Hall of Wonders. Surrounded by soaring marble pillars, intricate statues capturing the essence of history's greatest heroes, and a floor that reflects like still water, combatants will spar under the watchful gaze of the ancients. Every echo of a footstep or clash of weapons will be amplified in this vast chamber of reverie. Bards may find the acoustics advantageous for their sonic spells, while the shadows cast by grand pillars could give Rangers a sneaky edge. Magicians will be inspired by the history surrounding them, potentially boosting their arcane powers, but Knights may need to be wary of the slippery marble underfoot. With each corner holding a secret or artifact, strategy will be just as crucial as strength. Witness grace, power, and strategy intertwine in the Hall of Wonders!

Weekly Sparring Session #6

For this unique sparring session, students will swap swords for brushes and spells for palettes as they engage in a creative battle of colors and canvas. Set within a sunlit atrium adorned with hanging ivy and trickling fountains, the essence of artistry fills the air. Bards, with their inherent touch of creativity and expression, have a clear advantage in capturing the ambiance and intricacies of their subjects. Knights, clad in their weighty armor, may find the finesse required for painting a tad challenging, potentially producing abstract pieces unintentionally. Beastmaster students will have the additional challenge of ensuring their animated animal companions don't get too curious around the paint pots, resulting in accidental art splatters or spilled palettes. With every brushstroke, competitors will showcase a different side of their skills, revealing vulnerability, passion, and imagination in ways the Academy has never seen before. Who will craft the masterpiece that captures the heart of the Academy?

Weekly Sparring Session #7

In the heart of an autumn-hued field, an ensemble of geometrically-perfect geodesic domes stands tall, each crafted immaculately from a rare, uniform wood. As the next sparring session dawns, combatants are enclosed within these wooden structures. The only way out? Dismantle the dome from within. As participants work to break apart their confinements, the field soon reverberates with the echoing thuds of striking and splintering wood. While Knights might use sheer strength to rupture the dome's facets, Rangers could employ precision to target weak points. The unpredictable nature of this sparring session means that once the wooden shards settle, fighters could emerge anywhere and at any time, making for dynamic and unexpected bouts of skill and wit in the midst of the autumn splendor.

Weekly Sparring Session #8

Venturing far from the familiar, the final sparring session of the quarter is set amidst the very nexus of malevolence: the darkest, most corrupted part of the forest encircling The Academy. The atmosphere here is dense with a sinister energy, and the trees seem to whisper twisted secrets. But with risk comes potential reward. The Academy's higher-ups theorize that the sheer force of magical and physical combat might pierce through the darkness and unveil hidden truths about the forest's ailment. As students clash amidst the withered flora and tainted terrain, every spell cast, every blade swung, and every note sung is imbued with the dual purpose of triumph in combat and the desperate hope of restoring the woods. This session is not just about prowess but a fervent plea to the heart of the forest to reveal its mysteries.