Heroica RPG - Quest #38: The Lost Party

[Zepher]

Round Fifteen Gray Battle

Cronk v. Tensi - Special Damage Damage Shield Shield

Cronk v. Splinter - Damage

Tesni v. Splinter - Miss Special Damage Special Damage Hit

Arthur v. Tesni - Hit Damage Critical Hit Critical Hit

Bal v. Splinter - Shield Special Damage

Bal v. Splinter - Special Damage Hit

Alexis v. Splinter - Damage

Alexis v. Splinter - Aim (11)

Sasha v. Splinter - Damage Shield

Haldor v. Splinter - Shield Meditate (1 ether)

Triad v. Splinter - Damage Critical Hit

Gray does nothing

Free Hit

Shard (Hastened) v. Cronk - (No Damage)

Other

Tesni: (-3 max. health due to Cursed)

Shard regains 3 health

McColt - Fails to Hasten Arthur

The battle continues.

The Enemies

Ennoc’s Splinter

*Immune to Negative Effects*

*Lucky*

*Blessed*

*Hastened*

Level 50 Ancient

Health: 418/1250

Special Damage: The Light – Ennoc’s Splinter calls forth its brightness, Blinding all the heroes. The hero targeting the Splinter is Cursed, Fragile, and Jinxed.

Drops: Amulet of Gods, Splinter of Ennoc

The Party

Haldor Skovgaard

Level 19 1/2 Shaman

*Immune to Weakened*

*Lucky*

Power:

31

Defense:

2

Health:

33/33 (-3)

Ether:

22/27

Gold:

100

(Owed 50 from Elgar Gligin (Jedi Master Brick), (Owes 33 to Dyric Rone (The Legonater)

Equipment:

Heavy Metal Rod (WP:12,

Light

and

Water

elemental), Pugilist's Gloves (+2 Power,

Weakened

Immunity).

Inventory:

Bear Claw Gloves (WP:8, SP:+2), Ethereal Cloak (SP:+2, +4 Ether), Paper Doll (

Hexed

immunity), Scroll of Blindness (

Blinded

effect), Shovel, Pickaxe, Diamond of Thoric, Bluehood's Aquamarine, Emerald Lamp of Summoning, Health Core, Potion (x3), Remedy, Mead, Phoenix Essence, Zoot's Plaything

Bal

(Actions dictated by Cronk)

Level 11 Rogue

*Hastened*

Power

: 16

Health

: 18/18

Gold

: 38

Equipped

: Honor & Glory (Duel-Daggers, WP: 5, user is permanently hastened)

Inventory:

Potion, Emerald, Garnet, Throwing Dagger (WP: 2)

Arthur Justus Regulus VII

Level 17 Sorcerer

*Immune to Sealed*

*Lucky*

*Encouraged*

Power:

26

Health:

27/27

Ether:

11/27

Defense:

3

Gold:

289

(Owes

4

44

124 Gold to Alf (Bricksandparts) and

50 gold to Bartholomew Docken (Brickdoctor)

debt entrusted to Boomingham)

Equipment:

Cat-o'-Nine-Tails (WP:9;

damage divided between all enemies, suitable for rogues

), Robe of the Archmagi (SP:3, Max Ether +5, Immune to Sealed), Ancient Crown (First successful strike of battle deals

Cursed

effect, borrowed from Atramor Gibbin)

Inventory:

Staff of the Cultist Battlemage (WP: 7;

50% chance of Fleeing upon being KO'd; suitable for Mages and Clerics

), Healing Staff (WP:5;

heals instead of damaging

), Opal (

Ice

), Amethyst (

Darkness

), Topaz (

Lightning

), Bedroll, Telescope, Scroll of Blindness, Scroll of Sealing, Scroll of Confusion, Scroll of Sleep, Scroll of Frailty, Shovel, Grand Tonic, Holy Bomb, Remedy

Sasha

(Actions dictated by Tesni)

Level 18 Barbarian

*Encouraged*

Power

: 32

Health

: 13/13 (-12)

Gold

: 0

Equipped

: Axe of Ilrion (WP: 14, Fire Ice Elemental)

Inventory:

Mead, Potion

Triad

(Actions dictated by Arthur)

Level 22 1/3 Ranger

Power

: 37 (43)

Health

: 28/28

Gold

: 0

Equipped

: Acerpusculum Blade (Acerpusculum Shuriken) (WP: 15 [21, Retrievable], suitable for rangers/rouges), Cowl of the Acerpusculum (Headwear, User is Immune to Status Effects)

Inventory:

None

Alexis Fenral

Level 22 2/3

*Hastened*

*Immune to Fragile*

*Lucky*

Power:

33

Defense:

3

Health:

35/35

Ether:

9/23

Gold:

142

GP:

3

Equipment:

Mockthril Longbow (WP:11, ranged), Quickdraw Quiver (permanent hastened-effect), Lieutenant's Helmet (SP:3, protects from fragile)

Inventory:

Flute of the Magi (WP:3, asleep-effect), Staff of Ennon - (WP: 5, Light Elemental, Restores 2 ether on a roll of 2,3, or 4), Opal (

Ice

), Topaz (

Lightning

), Ruby (

Fire

), Aquamarine (

Water

), Amethyst (

Darkness

), Diamond (

Light

), Tonic, Grand Tonic, Milk, 2 Meads, Venom, Smoke Bomb, Fire Bomb, Pickaxe, Shovel, Bedroll, Magic Compass, Magnifying Glass, Potion, Holy Bomb, 2 Remedies

Spirits:

Skorpios

(Amethyst),

Ocven the Ice Dragon

(Opal),

Shalma the Thunderbird

(Topaz),

Sarp Zarra

(Aquamarine),

Mandy

(Ruby),

????

(Diamond)

Cronk

Level 23 2/3 Paladin

*Encouraged*

*Lucky*

Power

: 36

Power:

35

Defense:

14

Health:

32/43

Ether:

11/26

Gold:

90

Equipment:

Beast Skewer (Lance; WP: 12, Ice), Ennoc's Blessing (Shield, SP: 8), Elaborate Helmet (SP: 2), Paladin's Armour (Suitable for Paladins, +4 SP, +2 Max Ether)

Inventory:

Zoot's Bane (Suitable only for Cronk; WP: 12,

Light

), Sword of Bashing (Longsword; WP:5), Healing Staff (WP: 5; healing effect), Heavy Armor (SP:6, Power -6), Blacksmith Writ, Bedroll, Holy Bomb

Tesni Hightribe

Level 25 1/3 Berserker

*Encouraged*

*Cursed*

*Fragile*

*Jinxed*

Power

: 39

Defence

: 11

Health

: 15/15 (-30)

Gold

: 655

Equipped

: Dryw ar Zoot (WP:14, Light, longsword), Bone Claws (WP:3, SP:2), Mockthril Shield (SP:5), Dragon Bone Armor (SP:4)(+2 max health)

Inventory

: Cysgodion (WP: 11, Darkness, greatsword), Mellt (Warhammer, Lightning, Ice (WP:10), Spiked Club (WP:8), Cryfder (WP:6), Emerald (Wood), 2 Potions, Remedy, 2 Meads, 5 Venoms, Nostrum, Smoke Bomb, Minimizing Dust, Holy Bomb

Gray Wizard

Level 27 Cleric

*Too Weak For Physical Attacks*

(Actions dictated by Haldor)

*Encouraged*

Power

: 39

Health

: 35/35

Ether

: 2/31

Gold

: 0

Equipped

: Old Stone Staff (WP: 12, Light Elemental)

Inventory

: None

Round Sixteen Gray Battle

Cronk v. Tensi - Hit Damage Damage Hit

Cronk v. Tesni - Damage Shield Hit Miss

Tesni v. Splinter - Special Damage Shield Damage Shield

Arthur v. Tesni - Special Damage

Bal v. Splinter - Hit Damage (16)

Bal v. Splinter - Miss Hit

Alexis v. Splinter - Shield (Mandy!)

Alexis v. Splinter - Hit (33)

Sasha v. Splinter - Hit Critical Hit (32x2=64)

Haldor v. Splinter - Shield Special Damage

Triad v. Splinter - Shield Hit (37)

Gray does nothing

Free Hit

Shard (Hastened) v. Cronk - (No Damage)

Other

Tesni: (-3 max. health due to Cursed)

Shard regains 3 health

McColt - Fails to Hasten Arthur

The battle continues.

The Enemies

Ennoc’s Splinter

*Immune to Negative Effects*

*Lucky*

*Blessed*

*Hastened*

Level 50 Ancient

Health: 271/1250

Special Damage: The Light – Ennoc’s Splinter calls forth its brightness, Blinding all the heroes. The hero targeting the Splinter is Cursed, Fragile, and Jinxed.

Drops: Amulet of Gods, Splinter of Ennoc

The Party

Haldor Skovgaard

Level 19 1/2 Shaman

*Immune to Weakened*

*Lucky*

Power:

31

Defense:

2

Health:

33/33 (-3)

Ether:

22/27

Gold:

100

(Owed 50 from Elgar Gligin (Jedi Master Brick), (Owes 33 to Dyric Rone (The Legonater)

Equipment:

Heavy Metal Rod (WP:12,

Light

and

Water

elemental), Pugilist's Gloves (+2 Power,

Weakened

Immunity).

Inventory:

Bear Claw Gloves (WP:8, SP:+2), Ethereal Cloak (SP:+2, +4 Ether), Paper Doll (

Hexed

immunity), Scroll of Blindness (

Blinded

effect), Shovel, Pickaxe, Diamond of Thoric, Bluehood's Aquamarine, Emerald Lamp of Summoning, Health Core, Potion (x3), Remedy, Mead, Phoenix Essence, Zoot's Plaything

Bal

(Actions dictated by Cronk)

Level 11 Rogue

*Hastened*

Power

: 16

Health

: 18/18

Gold

: 38

Equipped

: Honor & Glory (Duel-Daggers, WP: 5, user is permanently hastened)

Inventory:

Potion, Emerald, Garnet, Throwing Dagger (WP: 2)

Arthur Justus Regulus VII

Level 17 Sorcerer

*Immune to Sealed*

*Lucky*

*Encouraged*

Power:

26

Health:

27/27

Ether:

11/27

Defense:

3

Gold:

289

(Owes

4

44

124 Gold to Alf (Bricksandparts) and

50 gold to Bartholomew Docken (Brickdoctor)

debt entrusted to Boomingham)

Equipment:

Cat-o'-Nine-Tails (WP:9;

damage divided between all enemies, suitable for rogues

), Robe of the Archmagi (SP:3, Max Ether +5, Immune to Sealed), Ancient Crown (First successful strike of battle deals

Cursed

effect, borrowed from Atramor Gibbin)

Inventory:

Staff of the Cultist Battlemage (WP: 7;

50% chance of Fleeing upon being KO'd; suitable for Mages and Clerics

), Healing Staff (WP:5;

heals instead of damaging

), Opal (

Ice

), Amethyst (

Darkness

), Topaz (

Lightning

), Bedroll, Telescope, Scroll of Blindness, Scroll of Sealing, Scroll of Confusion, Scroll of Sleep, Scroll of Frailty, Shovel, Grand Tonic, Holy Bomb, Remedy

Sasha

(Actions dictated by Tesni)

Level 18 Barbarian

*Encouraged*

Power

: 32

Health

: 13/13 (-12)

Gold

: 0

Equipped

: Axe of Ilrion (WP: 14, Fire Ice Elemental)

Inventory:

Mead, Potion

Triad

(Actions dictated by Arthur)

Level 22 1/3 Ranger

Power

: 37 (43)

Health

: 28/28

Gold

: 0

Equipped

: Acerpusculum Blade (Acerpusculum Shuriken) (WP: 15 [21, Retrievable], suitable for rangers/rouges), Cowl of the Acerpusculum (Headwear, User is Immune to Status Effects)

Inventory:

None

Ruby

Level 22 Fire Elemental

Alexis Fenral

Level 22 2/3

*Hastened*

*Immune to Fragile*

*Lucky*

Power:

33

Defense:

3

Health:

35/35

Ether:

9/23

Gold:

142

GP:

3

Equipment:

Mockthril Longbow (WP:11, ranged), Quickdraw Quiver (permanent hastened-effect), Lieutenant's Helmet (SP:3, protects from fragile)

Inventory:

Flute of the Magi (WP:3, asleep-effect), Staff of Ennon - (WP: 5, Light Elemental, Restores 2 ether on a roll of 2,3, or 4), Opal (

Ice

), Topaz (

Lightning

), Ruby (

Fire

), Aquamarine (

Water

), Amethyst (

Darkness

), Diamond (

Light

), Tonic, Grand Tonic, Milk, 2 Meads, Venom, Smoke Bomb, Fire Bomb, Pickaxe, Shovel, Bedroll, Magic Compass, Magnifying Glass, Potion, Holy Bomb, 2 Remedies

Spirits:

Skorpios

(Amethyst),

Ocven the Ice Dragon

(Opal),

Shalma the Thunderbird

(Topaz),

Sarp Zarra

(Aquamarine),

Mandy

(Ruby),

????

(Diamond)

Cronk

Level 23 2/3 Paladin

*Encouraged*

*Lucky*

Power

: 36

Power:

35

Defense:

14

Health:

32/43

Ether:

11/26

Gold:

90

Equipment:

Beast Skewer (Lance; WP: 12, Ice), Ennoc's Blessing (Shield, SP: 8), Elaborate Helmet (SP: 2), Paladin's Armour (Suitable for Paladins, +4 SP, +2 Max Ether)

Inventory:

Zoot's Bane (Suitable only for Cronk; WP: 12,

Light

), Sword of Bashing (Longsword; WP:5), Healing Staff (WP: 5; healing effect), Heavy Armor (SP:6, Power -6), Blacksmith Writ, Bedroll, Holy Bomb

Tesni Hightribe

Level 25 1/3 Berserker

*Encouraged*

*Cursed*

*Fragile*

*Jinxed*

Power

: 39

Defence

: 11

Health

: 12/12 (-33)

Gold

: 655

Equipped

: Dryw ar Zoot (WP:14, Light, longsword), Bone Claws (WP:3, SP:2), Mockthril Shield (SP:5), Dragon Bone Armor (SP:4)(+2 max health)

Inventory

: Cysgodion (WP: 11, Darkness, greatsword), Mellt (Warhammer, Lightning, Ice (WP:10), Spiked Club (WP:8), Cryfder (WP:6), Emerald (Wood), 2 Potions, Remedy, 2 Meads, 5 Venoms, Nostrum, Smoke Bomb, Minimizing Dust, Holy Bomb

Gray Wizard

Level 27 Cleric

*Too Weak For Physical Attacks*

(Actions dictated by Haldor)

*Encouraged*

Power

: 39

Health

: 35/35

Ether

: 2/31

Gold

: 0

Equipped

: Old Stone Staff (WP: 12, Light Elemental)

Inventory

: None

Edited September 27, 2012 by Zepher

[CorneliusMurdock]

Cronk will continue amusing Cronk's Angel by bashing Tesni with healing staff until Angel agrees to stay longer.

Bal- Now I will slice that splinter into a bunch of little splinter-ettes. Twice from front row.

[Zepher]

OoC: I did some weird stuff last round... gave Arthur only one roll v. Tesni, and Haldor took two rolls against the Splinter instead of just one... but I think we're good.

Round Seventeen Gray Battle

Cronk v. Tensi - Hit Damage Shield Shield

Cronk v. Splinter - Hit (36x2=64)

Tesni v. Splinter - Counter Hit Hit Critical Hit (14x2=28)

Arthur v. Tesni - Shield No Heal No Heal Critical Hit (+50)

Bal v. Splinter - Hit Shield (16)

Bal v. Splinter - Hit Hit (16)

Mandy - (22)

Alexis v. Splinter - Special Damage

Alexis v. Splinter - Critical Hit ([11x2]+22=44)

Sasha v. Splinter - Damage Critical Hit

Haldor v. Splinter - Critical Hit ([12x3]+19=55)

Triad v. Splinter - Shield Aim (15)

Gray does nothing

Free Hit

Shard (Hastened) v. Cronk - (No Damage)

Other

Tesni: (-3 max. health due to Cursed)

Shard regains 3 health

McColt - Fails to Hasten Arthur

The battle continues.

The Enemies

Ennoc’s Splinter

*Immune to Negative Effects*

*Lucky*

*Blessed*

*Hastened*

Level 50 Ancient

Health: 14/1250

Special Damage: The Light – Ennoc’s Splinter calls forth its brightness, Blinding all the heroes. The hero targeting the Splinter is Cursed, Fragile, and Jinxed.

Drops: Amulet of Gods, Splinter of Ennoc

The Party

Haldor Skovgaard

Level 19 1/2 Shaman

*Immune to Weakened*

*Lucky*

Power:

31

Defense:

2

Health:

33/33 (-3)

Ether:

22/27

Gold:

100

(Owed 50 from Elgar Gligin (Jedi Master Brick), (Owes 33 to Dyric Rone (The Legonater)

Equipment:

Heavy Metal Rod (WP:12,

Light

and

Water

elemental), Pugilist's Gloves (+2 Power,

Weakened

Immunity).

Inventory:

Bear Claw Gloves (WP:8, SP:+2), Ethereal Cloak (SP:+2, +4 Ether), Paper Doll (

Hexed

immunity), Scroll of Blindness (

Blinded

effect), Shovel, Pickaxe, Diamond of Thoric, Bluehood's Aquamarine, Emerald Lamp of Summoning, Health Core, Potion (x3), Remedy, Mead, Phoenix Essence, Zoot's Plaything

Bal

(Actions dictated by Cronk)

Level 11 Rogue

*Hastened*

Power

: 16

Health

: 18/18

Gold

: 38

Equipped

: Honor & Glory (Duel-Daggers, WP: 5, user is permanently hastened)

Inventory:

Potion, Emerald, Garnet, Throwing Dagger (WP: 2)

Arthur Justus Regulus VII

Level 17 Sorcerer

*Immune to Sealed*

*Lucky*

*Encouraged*

Power:

26

Health:

27/27

Ether:

11/27

Defense:

3

Gold:

339

(Owes

4

44

124 Gold to Alf (Bricksandparts) and

50 gold to Bartholomew Docken (Brickdoctor)

debt entrusted to Boomingham)

Equipment:

Cat-o'-Nine-Tails (WP:9;

damage divided between all enemies, suitable for rogues

), Robe of the Archmagi (SP:3, Max Ether +5, Immune to Sealed), Ancient Crown (First successful strike of battle deals

Cursed

effect, borrowed from Atramor Gibbin)

Inventory:

Staff of the Cultist Battlemage (WP: 7;

50% chance of Fleeing upon being KO'd; suitable for Mages and Clerics

), Healing Staff (WP:5;

heals instead of damaging

), Opal (

Ice

), Amethyst (

Darkness

), Topaz (

Lightning

), Bedroll, Telescope, Scroll of Blindness, Scroll of Sealing, Scroll of Confusion, Scroll of Sleep, Scroll of Frailty, Shovel, Grand Tonic, Holy Bomb, Remedy

Sasha

(Actions dictated by Tesni)

Level 18 Barbarian

*Encouraged*

Power

: 32

Health

: 13/13 (-12)

Gold

: 0

Equipped

: Axe of Ilrion (WP: 14, Fire Ice Elemental)

Inventory:

Mead, Potion

Triad

(Actions dictated by Arthur)

Level 22 1/3 Ranger

Power

: 37 (43)

Health

: 28/28

Gold

: 0

Equipped

: Acerpusculum Blade (Acerpusculum Shuriken) (WP: 15 [21, Retrievable], suitable for rangers/rouges), Cowl of the Acerpusculum (Headwear, User is Immune to Status Effects)

Inventory:

None

Ruby

Level 22 Fire Elemental

Alexis Fenral

Level 22 2/3

*Hastened*

*Immune to Fragile*

*Lucky*

Power:

33

Defense:

3

Health:

35/35

Ether:

9/23

Gold:

142

GP:

3

Equipment:

Mockthril Longbow (WP:11, ranged), Quickdraw Quiver (permanent hastened-effect), Lieutenant's Helmet (SP:3, protects from fragile)

Inventory:

Flute of the Magi (WP:3, asleep-effect), Staff of Ennon - (WP: 5, Light Elemental, Restores 2 ether on a roll of 2,3, or 4), Opal (

Ice

), Topaz (

Lightning

), Ruby (

Fire

), Aquamarine (

Water

), Amethyst (

Darkness

), Diamond (

Light

), Tonic, Grand Tonic, Milk, 2 Meads, Venom, Smoke Bomb, Fire Bomb, Pickaxe, Shovel, Bedroll, Magic Compass, Magnifying Glass, Potion, Holy Bomb, 2 Remedies

Spirits:

Skorpios

(Amethyst),

Ocven the Ice Dragon

(Opal),

Shalma the Thunderbird

(Topaz),

Sarp Zarra

(Aquamarine),

Mandy

(Ruby),

????

(Diamond)

Cronk

Level 23 2/3 Paladin

*Encouraged*

*Lucky*

Power

: 36

Power:

35

Defense:

14

Health:

32/43

Ether:

11/26

Gold:

90

Equipment:

Beast Skewer (Lance; WP: 12, Ice), Ennoc's Blessing (Shield, SP: 8), Elaborate Helmet (SP: 2), Paladin's Armour (Suitable for Paladins, +4 SP, +2 Max Ether)

Inventory:

Zoot's Bane (Suitable only for Cronk; WP: 12,

Light

), Sword of Bashing (Longsword; WP:5), Healing Staff (WP: 5; healing effect), Heavy Armor (SP:6, Power -6), Blacksmith Writ, Bedroll, Holy Bomb

Tesni Hightribe

Level 25 1/3 Berserker

*Encouraged*

*Cursed*

*Fragile*

*Jinxed*

Power

: 39

Defence

: 11

Health

: 12/12 (-33)

Gold

: 655

Equipped

: Dryw ar Zoot (WP:14, Light, longsword), Bone Claws (WP:3, SP:2), Mockthril Shield (SP:5), Dragon Bone Armor (SP:4)(+2 max health)

Inventory

: Cysgodion (WP: 11, Darkness, greatsword), Mellt (Warhammer, Lightning, Ice (WP:10), Spiked Club (WP:8), Cryfder (WP:6), Emerald (Wood), 2 Potions, Remedy, 2 Meads, 5 Venoms, Nostrum, Smoke Bomb, Minimizing Dust, Holy Bomb

Gray Wizard

Level 27 Cleric

*Too Weak For Physical Attacks*

(Actions dictated by Haldor)

*Encouraged*

Power

: 39

Health

: 35/35

Ether

: 2/31

Gold

: 0

Equipped

: Old Stone Staff (WP: 12, Light Elemental)

Inventory

: None

OoC: I'm going to give you guys this battle...

The body of Roderick slouches forward and glows strangely. All the heroes stand back warily, seeing what next twist the Splinter has for them. Light streams forth from the torn skin and armor.

Foolish heroes. You cannot kill me. This body is weakened, maybe, but--

"Sasha!"

"Roderick?"

Silence slave.

"Sasha listen to me--"

Silence.

"Listen here, heroes. I may help to right the wrong I committed. We all strive for something... but eventually that want, that need, to achieve something, to possess something, it consumes us, be it the light burning us away... or the darkness swallowing us..."

Silence.

"The Splinter is clinging to it's earthly body. Rip that Amulet off Roderick, and end this. It will incinerate those who are tied to it... me... Roderick.... whoever pulls it...."

Mortals cannot kill me. I am a God.

"No, even that is just a want. A need. It has burnt you up too. You have worn out your stay in this world. End it, heroes."

"End it, please, free me. I was so wrong. I'm sorry, Triad, Bal... Gray Wizard.... Sasha.... poor Sasha. Please, free me."

Stand back.

Sasha steps forward and grips the Amulet. Roderick's arms spasm.

"Sasha, no!! I can't let someone under me die."

"We will miss you. We loved you as a sister, too."

"Be brave, child. I will see you in another life."

Sasha yanks on the Amulet, and light floods the area. The heroes shield their eyes as it washes forward. Reality tears as the Splinter cries a Godly cry. The heroes watch as Roderick's body breaks apart like paper and then blows away. The General's bones crumble into dust. Wren, from the past perhaps, looks on sadly, and then in the light is Wren, the current, the one, the only. She places her hand on the Amulet as well and then kisses Sasha on the cheek as the Barbarian is consumed by light.

The light clears.

Wren stands, facing the heroes, eyes watery.

"Well, here we are heroes. You know more about me then before. You know more than I would have liked you to know... and while you gained... so did I..."

She sighs.

"Pass your judgements now, heroes. Haldor, Tesni, Regulus, dear Cronk. Bal, McColt, Traid, I'm so sorry Triad... and the Gray." She purses her lips and then begins to laugh wildly. "Now that you know everything, can you truly blame me?! Do you see another path? We all want. We all want. And I saw. I saw from Zoot, I saw how to achieve. How to gather all the beauty of the world to me, so I could see it forever. That Chaos. It's beautiful. And I just wanted to see it forever. I just want to see it forever. What can you say to me, heroes?"

OoC: Please don't speak as the NPCs from here on! Thank you! We'll address the drops and the leveling up after the roleplay, just don't let me forget!

Edited September 27, 2012 by Zepher

[Peppermint_M]

Tesni bowed her head to the passing of a comrade in arms. "Sasha fought well, may the river take them together to their reward." The prayer done and no threat in sight she placed Drwy point down at the earth and turned to Wren. "I saw your past, verily it was shrouded in the grey. I have... fellow feeling." she took a tentative step forward arm outstretched. "But we can only enjoy the beauty as we live... To exist for all time, that is order. An unchanging facet, anamathea to grey..."

[Masked Builder]

"Poor Sasha," Alexis thinks. She stands and looks at Wren, the person whom they've all fought against all quest.

[CorneliusMurdock]

May Ennoc embrace Roderick, Sasha, and General and protect the fallen in the next life.

Can any friend tell if the amulet was consumed as well? Wren, Cronk cannot let amulet fall into Wren's hands either. Surely Wren must see that splinter of Zoot would no more be Zoot than Ennoc's splinter was Ennoc. Only pain comes from amulet.

[Scorpiox]

Haldor stumbled back, spitting blood.

"Sasha, gah, bloody hell. What a waste, to lose her now, there was so much that I needed to ask." The Nord shook his head and faced away, all this had taken its toll on both his body and mind, leaving him doubting whether he himself was quite as good ad he'd thought. When he turned his tired and weary gaze back to the room, he saw that she was standing there, she who had been here in spirit for so very long, was before them now.

"No, I will not judge you, Wren. Before I set about here I would have liked to call you evil and be done with it, but now I cannot bring myself to do that. All the things that you have done, some of them terrible things, were in your mind a thing that would benefit and show you the way to great things. Zoot has opened your eyes to your true self, and I admire you for knowing and accepting what you really are, something that we all find difficult. I cannot judge you and what you have done for merely unlocking the doors to yourself. No, I will not stand here and take views on what you are, witch, because I find myself balancing on a similar path. There is a fine line between walking on the chaotic path and the blackness of evil. But we will have to stop you, in the end we will have to bring you down. Because what you do is a danger to innocents and to the order that keeps us sane, and for that you must be stopped. Not for any warped sense of justice that I may cling on to. This is my truth, dark Lady of Chaos, make of it what you will.

[Flipz]

Arthur gazes upon the Lady, his sister in Chaos. "I never could judge you. Not in fullest truth. For yours is the same path that I walk. My story? It's exactly the same as your story, just one chapter behind. Born of Chaos...bound to Chaos...our paths are intertwined. I seek the knowledge of your travels along your path, because as I do I gain a glimpse of my own." Arthur pauses, lost for a moment in thought, his focus drifting to another realm... "And I can see some of my path. I understand not how, but it reaches the pinnacle of Chaos...and continues on." Arthur blinks, his focus returning to Olegaia, and turns to the Lady. "Dear Lady, I hold you in great regard, just as Sasha did, just as Triad does, even as they continued to oppose you. I wish you to promise me something. You have done great things for this world, even if this world cannot or will not manage to recognize them. I wish you to promise me that you will consider your path, and that you will look beyond your goal of the eternal beauty of Chaos. Do not misunderstand me; the beauty of Chaos is your beacon, just as revealing that beauty to the world is mine. But I fear you may think your journey at its end there, and miss the great potential that will be into this world. I wish for you to, when you come close, or even reach the pinnacle of your achievement, that you look on, to find the next beacon that is on your journey, that you will not lose yourself on the way. You have done great things, my Lady, and I wish you to not be lost to this world. Look not merely to thy original goal, but beyond, to a further future. If my road continues on, then perhaps yours will as well. Please, promise me that, when the time comes, you will seek a future, rather than just an end."

[CorneliusMurdock]

Arthur worries Cronk. Wren has not "done great things in this world". If Wren has only wished to cause Chaos, where is the good? Is forcing beings to fight to death good? Is destroying innocent lives just to create abominations of "chaos" good? Is manipulating the abduction of Dastan's best hope for just future rule good? Is turning back on friends for own selfish reasons good?

True chaos is not just evil. Is disorder, yes. But there should be good in disorder as well. Random kindness can be chaos. Overturning corrupt rulers for good of subjects can be chaos. But Wren has only done evil.

And what Wren seeks to do next is evil. No god can exist on mortal plane. Friends have seen proof of that today. Even Ennoc, with Justice and Light, cannot truly exist here. Zoot would be no better. It not right to force gods into mortal plane no matter which god is being considered. Did Wren learn nothing from General?

Wren, Cronk still believe in redemption for Wren as well. Cronk has seen that Wren not always shrouded in darkness. These beings here are good beings. Bal, Sasha, Triad, Gray. True friends cannot be made with evil. Turn away from blasphemous path, Wren. Use chaos for good. Path Wren is on is not Chaos but Evil.

[Zepher]

"But we can only enjoy the beauty as we live... To exist for all time, that is order. An unchanging facet, anamathea to grey..."

Wren smiled. "Tesni, it is truly a pleasure to see you once more. You have grown since I last saw you. I see that your dark sword is less of a talker now. You have tamed the beast. Bent it to your will. That's lovely."

"Perhaps, years ago, you and I could have risen to power together. But that is no longer the case. Now there can be only one of power. Only one of us may master the Chaos, may master the Gray. My dear, be safe, and stand out of my way... but I will live forever, and I will be lady of Chaos. You may either assist me, and watch the Chaos grow, or you may stand in opposition, and watch the Chaos grow."

Can any friend tell if the amulet was consumed as well? Wren, Cronk cannot let amulet fall into Wren's hands either. Surely Wren must see that splinter of Zoot would no more be Zoot than Ennoc's splinter was Ennoc. Only pain comes from amulet.

Wren dangles the Amulet from one finger. "This Amulet will be put to new use soon enough, my dearest Cronk. It has been a long time since we've met. No hello? No how are you? And you're right, Cronk. Zoot's splinter would be no more Zoot than Ennoc's Splinter Ennoc. But you don't know yet, dear. I don't want Zoot here."

"This is my truth, dark Lady of Chaos, make of it what you will."

Wren smiles sweetly at Haldor. She keeps her remarks short. "My dear, I once thought you weak and a coward. I see that you have reformed. Stand your ground as you see fit. I will not fault you for it."

"If my road continues on, then perhaps yours will as well. Please, promise me that, when the time comes, you will seek a future, rather than just an end."

"Master Regulus, do not belittle me by calling me sister. We were once peers in Chaos. This is true. But you are now looking at your future goddess. My path is nearly finished on Oleg, it's true, but it end will be more glorious than you can possibly imagine, and it will result in the beginning of a new path! I will live on as Goddess of Chaos. Free to observe forever the beauty that will consume Oleg forever, growing more and more each year until the end of time."

"You cannot do this, Wren. You know you will fail."

"I know my desire, Gray. I know where it leads me. Be whatever it may be, I must follow it. That's the path of the world. Desire and Chaos. We are powerless to stop them-- one feeds the other."

"Alexis, you are new to me, but I can feel your desire. It consumes you. You want to be loved but it hurt you. It caused Chaos. It made you mad." Wren says, happily.

"I, I don't know." She manages. Alexis can barely speak, all she can manage is to feel lost. She was lost. Her man abandoned her, he showed up crippled the next morning, and they hadn't spoken since. Guilt was overcoming her. Her resolve to ignore Wren's seductive talk is strong. "You're the mad one.

"No, dear, no, I'm not the mad one. I've accepted the path that I'm on. You must do the same. The world is dark, and light, and gray. You must choose your own path. You must choose your goal, and you must cling to it. Isn't that right? Cronk, who has chosen to be the bearer of light and compassion no matter the cost. Arthur, who is picking his way through the Chaos. Tesni, who has chosen to feed her hungry pockets gold. McColt who has chosen to lead his men. Triad who has chosen to see the world as black and white. Bal and his hopes for glory. They all cling to them. They all have chosen them, no matter the cost. They pick what they want, and they try to seize it. Can anyone fault me for doing the same?"

"Your desire has cost other's dearly."

"Gray, not all of us can stand outside the game as you do."

"No!" Alexis screams out loud. "You're wrong. You don't follow desire at any cost. Look where that got me!"

Wren laughs. "You can't resist the desire, Alexis. I know what happened to Firnen. What a terrible incident, I'm surprised you don't hate fire, it seems just to be your lot to lose men. It's because you have committed your being to what you want."

Alexis' resolve, finally falls off the cliff. She remembers Firnen, and his tragic death, before shaking away the terrible memories. Alexis reluctantly speaks. "I suppose so yes."

"Perfect." She smiles slyly. "Well, I believe that you should be come a Harlot."

Alexis balks. Wren smiles some more.

"You see, my friends? Some balk at their chance for achieving their desire. They wish to stay on the road of the light, the road that is good. And don't you see how that holds people back? There is no such road."

Arthur worries Cronk. Wren has not "done great things in this world". If Wren has only wished to cause Chaos, where is the good? Is forcing beings to fight to death good? Is destroying innocent lives just to create abominations of "chaos" good? Is manipulating the abduction of Dastan's best hope for just future rule good? Is turning back on friends for own selfish reasons good?

And what Wren seeks to do next is evil. No god can exist on mortal plane. Friends have seen proof of that today. Even Ennoc, with Justice and Light, cannot truly exist here. Zoot would be no better. It not right to force gods into mortal plane no matter which god is being considered. Did Wren learn nothing from General?

"You are right, Cronk. I do no good. I do no evil. I deal in gray, in Chaos. We are all selfish. Accepting that, and moving on, puts us all on an even playing field. The strongest survive, the weakest do not get what they want. Some are too afraid of the path of Chaos. Alexis is. You are. So you do not succeed."

"And I did learn from the General, Cronk. I learned to not slip this pretty necklace over my own pretty neck. I don't wish to summon a God here. I wish to elevate myself so I can meet him face to face. Here is your broken god, by the way."

Wren waves her hand over the Amulet and then tosses a glowing shard onto the floor.

"Heroes, the next time I see you will be in Eubric. I look forward to it. Cronk, my dear, the time has come. A Ace Refill, Owlish Ill, Wilt Orzo. And I will rise above him."

Wren swings the Amulet once, casually, and then she fades away.

The Party

Haldor Skovgaard

Level 20 Shaman

*Immune to Weakened*

Power:

32

Defense:

2

Health:

37/37

Ether:

23/28

Gold:

100

(Owed 50 from Elgar Gligin (Jedi Master Brick), (Owes 33 to Dyric Rone (The Legonater)

Equipment:

Heavy Metal Rod (WP:12,

Light

and

Water

elemental), Pugilist's Gloves (+2 Power,

Weakened

Immunity).

Inventory:

Bear Claw Gloves (WP:8, SP:+2), Ethereal Cloak (SP:+2, +4 Ether), Paper Doll (

Hexed

immunity), Scroll of Blindness (

Blinded

effect), Shovel, Pickaxe, Diamond of Thoric, Bluehood's Aquamarine, Emerald Lamp of Summoning, Health Core, Potion (x3), Remedy, Mead, Phoenix Essence, Zoot's Plaything

Bal

(Actions dictated by Cronk)

Level 11 1/2 Rogue

*Hastened*

Power

: 16

Health

: 18/18

Gold

: 38

Equipped

: Honor & Glory (Duel-Daggers, WP: 5, user is permanently hastened)

Inventory:

Potion, Emerald, Garnet, Throwing Dagger (WP: 2)

Arthur Justus Regulus VII

Level 17 1/2 Sorcerer

*Immune to Sealed*

Power:

26

Health:

27/27

Ether:

11/27

Defense:

3

Gold:

339

(Owes

4

44

124 Gold to Alf (Bricksandparts) and

50 gold to Bartholomew Docken (Brickdoctor)

debt entrusted to Boomingham)

Equipment:

Cat-o'-Nine-Tails (WP:9;

damage divided between all enemies, suitable for rogues

), Robe of the Archmagi (SP:3, Max Ether +5, Immune to Sealed), Ancient Crown (First successful strike of battle deals

Cursed

effect, borrowed from Atramor Gibbin)

Inventory:

Staff of the Cultist Battlemage (WP: 7;

50% chance of Fleeing upon being KO'd; suitable for Mages and Clerics

), Healing Staff (WP:5;

heals instead of damaging

), Opal (

Ice

), Amethyst (

Darkness

), Topaz (

Lightning

), Bedroll, Telescope, Scroll of Blindness, Scroll of Sealing, Scroll of Confusion, Scroll of Sleep, Scroll of Frailty, Shovel, Grand Tonic, Holy Bomb, Remedy

Triad

Level 22 2/3 Ranger

Power

: 37 (43)

Health

: 28/28

Gold

: 0

Equipped

: Acerpusculum Blade (Acerpusculum Shuriken) (WP: 15 [21, Retrievable], suitable for rangers/rouges), Cowl of the Acerpusculum (Headwear, User is Immune to Status Effects)

Inventory:

None

Alexis Fenral

Level 23

*Hastened*

*Immune to Fragile*

Power:

34

Defense:

3

Health:

36/36

Ether:

10/24

Gold:

142

GP:

3

Equipment:

Mockthril Longbow (WP:11, ranged), Quickdraw Quiver (permanent hastened-effect), Lieutenant's Helmet (SP:3, protects from fragile)

Inventory:

Flute of the Magi (WP:3, asleep-effect), Staff of Ennon - (WP: 5, Light Elemental, Restores 2 ether on a roll of 2,3, or 4), Opal (

Ice

), Topaz (

Lightning

), Ruby (

Fire

), Aquamarine (

Water

), Amethyst (

Darkness

), Diamond (

Light

), Tonic, Grand Tonic, Milk, 2 Meads, Venom, Smoke Bomb, Fire Bomb, Pickaxe, Shovel, Bedroll, Magic Compass, Magnifying Glass, Potion, Holy Bomb, 2 Remedies

Spirits:

Skorpios

(Amethyst),

Ocven the Ice Dragon

(Opal),

Shalma the Thunderbird

(Topaz),

Sarp Zarra

(Aquamarine),

Mandy

(Ruby),

????

(Diamond)

Cronk

Level 24 Paladin

Power

: 36

Defense:

14

Health:

33/44

Ether:

12/27

Gold:

90

Equipment:

Beast Skewer (Lance; WP: 12, Ice), Ennoc's Blessing (Shield, SP: 8), Elaborate Helmet (SP: 2), Paladin's Armour (Suitable for Paladins, +4 SP, +2 Max Ether)

Inventory:

Zoot's Bane (Suitable only for Cronk; WP: 12,

Light

), Sword of Bashing (Longsword; WP:5), Healing Staff (WP: 5; healing effect), Heavy Armor (SP:6, Power -6), Blacksmith Writ, Bedroll, Holy Bomb

Tesni Hightribe

Level 25 2/3 Berserker

Power

: 39

Defence

: 11

Health

: 45/45

Gold

: 655

Equipped

: Dryw ar Zoot (WP:14, Light, longsword), Bone Claws (WP:3, SP:2), Mockthril Shield (SP:5), Dragon Bone Armor (SP:4)(+2 max health)

Inventory

: Cysgodion (WP: 11, Darkness, greatsword), Mellt (Warhammer, Lightning, Ice (WP:10), Spiked Club (WP:8), Cryfder (WP:6), Emerald (Wood), 2 Potions, Remedy, 2 Meads, 5 Venoms, Nostrum, Smoke Bomb, Minimizing Dust, Holy Bomb

Gray Wizard

Level 27 1/3 Cleric

Power

: 39

Health

: 35/35

Ether

: 2/31

Gold

: 0

Equipped

: Old Stone Staff (WP: 12, Light Elemental)

Inventory

: None

Loot

-500 Gold

-Nostrum x4

-Soma x4

-Phoenix Essence

-Sir Roderick’s Sword (WP: 12, Darkness Elemental, Long Sword)

-Sir Roderick’s Shield (SP: 6, Immunity to Afraid)

-Splinter of Ennoc (Perma-Blessed Effect, Artifact, Accessory, Suitable for heroes with a light imbued weapon)

Edited September 27, 2012 by Zepher

[Flipz]

Arthur worries Cronk. Wren has not "done great things in this world". If Wren has only wished to cause Chaos, where is the good? Is forcing beings to fight to death good? Is destroying innocent lives just to create abominations of "chaos" good? Is manipulating the abduction of Dastan's best hope for just future rule good? Is turning back on friends for own selfish reasons good?

True chaos is not just evil. Is disorder, yes. But there should be good in disorder as well. Random kindness can be chaos. Overturning corrupt rulers for good of subjects can be chaos. But Wren has only done evil.

And what Wren seeks to do next is evil. No god can exist on mortal plane. Friends have seen proof of that today. Even Ennoc, with Justice and Light, cannot truly exist here. Zoot would be no better. It not right to force gods into mortal plane no matter which god is being considered. Did Wren learn nothing from General?

Wren, Cronk still believe in redemption for Wren as well. Cronk has seen that Wren not always shrouded in darkness. These beings here are good beings. Bal, Sasha, Triad, Gray. True friends cannot be made with evil. Turn away from blasphemous path, Wren. Use chaos for good. Path Wren is on is not Chaos but Evil.

"Those are all great things. Terrible, yes, but great. Surely you can see the imbalance that the Lady's loss would bring to this world? Regardless of what we think of her actions, right or wrong--and make no mistake, I do not agree with all she has done--she is a powerful force in this world, and powerful forces create good and evil equally. For every good action, there is an equal and opposite reaction for evil. Out of every evil, some good comes. It takes great courage, and great strength, to sacrifice oneself to become the 'villain' in the eyes of the world, toward some greater role. The Lady has created Heroes, reawakened true heroism in the hearts of many of Heroica. Surely that is not evil? Remember this, Sir Cronk: good has no meaning, no definition in the absence of evil. Both must exist together, in delicate, beautiful, Chaotic harmony."

EDIT:

Wren leaves, and Arthur feels himself alone once more. A cold anger enters his eyes even as they turn to mist once more. "Belittle? ...So be it. One day you will see the truth. And we will be equals."

Arthur turns to the rest of this party. "Haldor. I would see you unleash the power of the Orb of Chaos that you hold. I wish to see the power of Zoot properly released, by one who thinks not more of themself than they really are. Your words to the Lady were both wise and humble. You are worthy of Zoot's power. As the Lady in her arrogance saw not fit to accept my request for her own future, please instead grant me this: that you now inspire us all with your use of her Plaything. I lay no claim to the Splinter, nor to any other loot aside from a share of the gold."

Edited September 27, 2012 by Flipz

[Peppermint_M]

Tesni shrugged and drew her outstretched hand back, rubbing her head ruefully. "I never did tell her the name of my blade. Ah well, I hope to see her in Eubric, if only to help her survive what foolishness she engages in." Tesni chuckled. "She had the measure of me though. Once I have enough gold, enough glory... I'll move outside of Eubric, maybe off the island... By the mountains like my home, build a tower and invite the strongest, the fastest, the wisest, the bravest, to test those who would wish to challenge my strength." she shrugged again. "If Wren holds power or not, that dream can occur." She took up the blade of Sasha and using Mellt drove it into the spot the three had faded. "A fitting monument no? Now do we return home?"

(OoC: Are my stats right? I started with 44 on this quest...)

[Scorpiox]

Haldor looked on, indifferent. "Oh, we'll meet again, Wren. And when the time comes, I'll be ready, make sure that you are." The Nord then turned back to the others, breaking into a grin. "Seems like I've got some loot to give out, hold fast everyone and speak up if you're getting shorted. And we've got that little riddle of hers to solve, so you're all welcome to chip in. This is what I've got so far:

A Ace Refill, Owlish Ill, Wilt Orzo --- Zoot will rise

Loot

Cronk(175 gold, Nostrum, Soma)

Tesni(Sir Roderick's Shield, Soma, Phoenix Essence, 50 gold)

Alexis(Splinter of Ennoc, Nostrum, Soma, 50 gold)

Arthur(Sir Roderick's Sword 50 gold, Nostrum)

Haldor(175 gold, Nostrum, Soma)

"Arthur, I am honoured that you think me worthy to carry this creation, so that I may wield its form in the name of Heroica. I will make it my quest to find and stop, Wren wherever she may be." Haldor retrieved the plaything from deep in his satchel and held it aloft. He turned back to his friends. "My comrades, I thank you for following me with this journey into the darkest of pasts, and I thank you all for staying true to our goals. We have all learnt much here, me more than most, and I can stand before you all in humility now that it is over. Cronk, you are steadfast and brave as always, and I never once doubted your judgement. Tesni, you are a great and formidable ally and friend to me, I never tire of fighting by your side. Alexis, while we may have disagreed on matters very deep, I trust you to do the right thing in what is to come, in both your life and your work. And Arthur, you are wise beyond your years, and you have taught me more than I knew about myself, for that I am grateful. I hope you find solace in your future, and would wish to meet you again on these fine fields of adventure. And to you all, good luck, and may we once again find ourselves and Wren very soon."

Edited September 27, 2012 by Scorpiox

[Flipz]

Arthur's eye falls upon Roderick's sword, but he says nothing of it.

OOC: I wouldn't mind that sword; Tensi already has a better one, Cronk doesn't seem the type to want it, and Arthur's the only other one in the party who can use it anyway.

"Heroica will fall. Zoot will rise. It is a motto of Wren's from the past..."

Edited September 27, 2012 by Flipz

[CorneliusMurdock]

The utter Foolishness! Cronk is weary of this world that such things should happen. Does no one know reason? Truth? What did friend Sasha give life for if amulet will continue to corrupt another?

Oh, Ennoc. Why must Cronk be tested like this? Hasn't Cronk done enough to atone? Will Cronk ever do enough?

....

Cronk will continue. Cronk will bear test, Ennoc. With Ennoc's help.

Arthur's words speak nonsense. Chaos is but another form of balance. Wren does not make good by causing evil. Beings that stand against Wren do. Wren does not cause it. Beings would do good without Wren, And if Arthur truly believe in Chaos, Arthur knows that only doing evil is not Chaos. Arthur should be careful that Arthur, too, does not become so deluded that Arthur should seek ruin of world by own folly.

[Flipz]

Arthur's words speak nonsense. Chaos is but another form of balance. Wren does not make good by causing evil. Beings that stand against Wren do. Wren does not cause it. Beings would do good without Wren, And if Arthur truly believe in Chaos, Arthur knows that only doing evil is not Chaos. Arthur should be careful that Arthur, too, does not become so deluded that Arthur should seek ruin of world by own folly.

"I do not say that her way is the best way, but you unduly disrespect the Lady if you refuse to acknowledge the good she has done. People cannot help it; whatever they do, they also do the opposite. People who love order unwittingly cause Chaos, and those devoted to Chaos often bring about new order along the way. Allow me to use a metaphor you, perhaps, will understand; no matter how much evil they try to do, all villains end up doing some good--that is why even the vilest of villains may be redeemed. Likewise, no matter how good we Heroes try to be, we will invariably do things that are wrong, very wrong, things that greatly advance the cause of evil--that means that we are flawed and imperfect, and should not think more highly of ourselves than we are. Is Wren evil? Perhaps. I do not hold a high enough moral position to judge such things; perhaps you, as a follower of Ennoc, consider yourself righteous enough to deliver judgement upon her. But without her, I do not doubt that some of the many people she has touched would have turned to villainy, whether from desire or desperation. She has made all of us better people, even though she intended to cause suffering. Do you understand? We Heroes would not be Heroes if we had no villain to fight."

[Peppermint_M]

"Who says we are heroes Arthur?" Tesni sat on some rubble, leaning on Dryw. "We say we are heroes but we could be villans. I killed wolf and cub to protect my life, a villan to the wolf's mate, the cub's dam or sire. I killed men simply fighting a cause they felt right, not heroic eh?" Tesni prodded at some loose stone with a toe. "We are called heroes merely for being of Heroica. Word and deed are grey and fall either way."

[Flipz]

"Who says we are heroes Arthur?" Tesni sat on some rubble, leaning on Dryw. "We say we are heroes but we could be villans. I killed wolf and cub to protect my life, a villan to the wolf's mate, the cub's dam or sire. I killed men simply fighting a cause they felt right, not heroic eh?" Tesni prodded at some loose stone with a toe. "We are called heroes merely for being of Heroica. Word and deed are grey and fall either way."

"Perhaps. But still we are Heroes to our own causes, even if our cause is merely ourself. Regardless of how we define the word 'Hero' for ourself, the point remains; a Hero without a villain--or, at least, an opposing force--is no Hero at all. Objective, obstacle, intention--these are the ingredients of a Hero, someone who does, rather than being someone that others do things to. Your objectives are wealth and power, your obstacle is the Hero's perpetually-empty gold pouch, your intention is to do what you must--whatever you must--to gain the wealth and power you seek. That makes you a Hero, even if your cause isn't precisely 'heroic' in the world's definition of the term. Even if you chose to leave Heroica forever, right here, right now, you'd still be a Hero, because you do instead of let happen. 'Good' is simply what we feel aids us in our cause, 'evil' is that which runs contrary. Does that make sense?"

[CorneliusMurdock]

" 'Good' is simply what we feel aids us in our cause, 'evil' is that which runs contrary. Does that make sense?"

Not in slightest. World does not revolve around friends' selves. Whole theory is arrogance. There is greater Truth than mortal plane or any beings on it. Cronk feels sad that other friends cannot see that.

[Flipz]

Not in slightest. World does not revolve around friends' selves. Whole theory is arrogance. There is greater Truth than mortal plane or any beings on it. Cronk feels sad that other friends cannot see that.

"That is your view. It serves you well, so I am not sad that you disagree with me. I am only sad for those who bind themselves into a rigid moral system that does not suit them, that limits their potential."

"Speaking of potential, Alexis, I feel that Cronk would be better suited with the Shard of Ennoc. Would you be willing to accept Roderick's sword in exchange for it?"

[Zepher]

The Party

Haldor Skovgaard

Level 20 Shaman

*Immune to Weakened*

Power:

32

Defense:

2

Health:

37/37

Ether:

23/28

Gold:

275

(Owed 50 from Elgar Gligin (Jedi Master Brick), (Owes 33 to Dyric Rone (The Legonater)

Equipment:

Heavy Metal Rod (WP:12,

Light

and

Water

elemental), Pugilist's Gloves (+2 Power,

Weakened

Immunity).

Inventory:

Bear Claw Gloves (WP:8, SP:+2), Ethereal Cloak (SP:+2, +4 Ether), Paper Doll (

Hexed

immunity), Scroll of Blindness (

Blinded

effect), Shovel, Pickaxe, Diamond of Thoric, Bluehood's Aquamarine, Emerald Lamp of Summoning, Health Core, Potion (x3), Remedy, Mead, Phoenix Essence, Zoot's Plaything, Nostrum, Soma

Bal

Level 11 1/2 Rogue

*Hastened*

Power

: 16

Health

: 18/18

Gold

: 38

Equipped

: Honor & Glory (Duel-Daggers, WP: 5, user is permanently hastened)

Inventory:

Potion, Emerald, Garnet, Throwing Dagger (WP: 2)

Arthur Justus Regulus VII

Level 17 1/2 Sorcerer

*Immune to Sealed*

Power:

26

Health:

27/27

Ether:

11/27

Defense:

3

Gold:

389

(Owes

4

44

124 Gold to Alf (Bricksandparts) and

50 gold to Bartholomew Docken (Brickdoctor)

debt entrusted to Boomingham)

Equipment:

Cat-o'-Nine-Tails (WP:9;

damage divided between all enemies, suitable for rogues

), Robe of the Archmagi (SP:3, Max Ether +5, Immune to Sealed), Ancient Crown (First successful strike of battle deals

Cursed

effect, borrowed from Atramor Gibbin)

Inventory:

Sir Roderick’s Sword (WP: 12, Darkness Elemental, Long Sword), Staff of the Cultist Battlemage (WP: 7;

50% chance of Fleeing upon being KO'd; suitable for Mages and Clerics

), Healing Staff (WP:5;

heals instead of damaging

), Opal (

Ice

), Amethyst (

Darkness

), Topaz (

Lightning

), Bedroll, Telescope, Scroll of Blindness, Scroll of Sealing, Scroll of Confusion, Scroll of Sleep, Scroll of Frailty, Shovel, Grand Tonic, Holy Bomb, Remedy, Nostrum

Triad

Level 22 2/3 Ranger

Power

: 37 (43)

Health

: 28/28

Gold

: 0

Equipped

: Acerpusculum Blade (Acerpusculum Shuriken) (WP: 15 [21, Retrievable], suitable for rangers/rouges), Cowl of the Acerpusculum (Headwear, User is Immune to Status Effects)

Inventory:

None

Alexis Fenral

Level 23

*Hastened*

*Immune to Fragile*

Power:

34

Defense:

3

Health:

36/36

Ether:

10/24

Gold:

192

GP:

3

Equipment:

Mockthril Longbow (WP:11, ranged), Quickdraw Quiver (permanent hastened-effect), Lieutenant's Helmet (SP:3, protects from fragile)

Inventory:

Flute of the Magi (WP:3, asleep-effect), Staff of Ennon - (WP: 5, Light Elemental, Restores 2 ether on a roll of 2,3, or 4), Opal (

Ice

), Topaz (

Lightning

), Ruby (

Fire

), Aquamarine (

Water

), Amethyst (

Darkness

), Diamond (

Light

), Tonic, Grand Tonic, Milk, 2 Meads, Venom, Smoke Bomb, Fire Bomb, Pickaxe, Shovel, Bedroll, Magic Compass, Magnifying Glass, Potion, Holy Bomb, 2 Remedies, Nostrum, Soma, Splinter of Ennoc (Artifact, Accessory, User Perma-Blessed, Requires Light Weapon)

Spirits:

Skorpios

(Amethyst),

Ocven the Ice Dragon

(Opal),

Shalma the Thunderbird

(Topaz),

Sarp Zarra

(Aquamarine),

Mandy

(Ruby),

????

(Diamond)

Cronk

Level 24 Paladin

Power

: 36

Defense:

14

Health:

33/44

Ether:

12/27

Gold:

265

Equipment:

Beast Skewer (Lance; WP: 12, Ice), Ennoc's Blessing (Shield, SP: 8), Elaborate Helmet (SP: 2), Paladin's Armour (Suitable for Paladins, +4 SP, +2 Max Ether)

Inventory:

Zoot's Bane (Suitable only for Cronk; WP: 12,

Light

), Sword of Bashing (Longsword; WP:5), Healing Staff (WP: 5; healing effect), Heavy Armor (SP:6, Power -6), Blacksmith Writ, Bedroll, Holy Bomb, Nostrum, Soma

Tesni Hightribe

Level 25 2/3 Berserker

Power

: 39

Defence

: 11

Health

: 45/45

Gold

: 705

Equipped

: Dryw ar Zoot (WP:14, Light, longsword), Bone Claws (WP:3, SP:2), Mockthril Shield (SP:5), Dragon Bone Armor (SP:4)(+2 max health)

Inventory

: Cysgodion (WP: 11, Darkness, greatsword), Mellt (Warhammer, Lightning, Ice (WP:10), Spiked Club (WP:8), Cryfder (WP:6), Emerald (Wood), 2 Potions, Remedy, 2 Meads, 5 Venoms, Nostrum, Smoke Bomb, Minimizing Dust, Holy Bomb, Soma, Phoenix Essence, Sir Roderick’s Shield (SP: 6, Immunity to Afraid)

Gray Wizard

Level 27 1/3 Cleric

Power

: 39

Health

: 35/35

Ether

: 2/31

Gold

: 0

Equipped

: Old Stone Staff (WP: 12, Light Elemental)

Inventory

: None

The heroes divi up their loot. McColt stands next to the axe that Tesni hammered into the ground. He chews on the inside of his cheek, causing his mustache to dance above his lips.

"It's a sad day, heroes. I promised myself, when I left Haddon to serve the Wren Hunters, that I would not lose a comrade. This was not war. She died--" McColt seems deeply bothered. "I guess there are some things I still do not understand. Felton and Hans say they too are from small towns, in the High Kingdoms. They understand the gray of the world. I'm afraid I don't, and that I never will. I see everything by the numbers. We are stopping one mad woman. Why must so many more than that suffer for the prevention of her schemes. I'm plauged with the worry that we aren't planning properly, and that we're somehow missing something, that we aren't allotting our resources correctly, aren't making the right strategical choice. But maybe I'm wrong. Maybe some people are so powerful that the best strategical choice, the best way to solve the problem, costs lives. Maybe we're not doing something wrong. Maybe she's just better than us."

McColt sighs again. "We proved something today, though, heroes. We proved that she alone is powerful. But when she came here, when she arrived in the Eye, she fled with fear. She could not win. She has grown in strength since then, but that truth remains. I don't need to make any bull shit statement about friendship. I don't think that's how we'll beat her. But I will say, we have more at our disposal than she does. We can use our full force against her. She is but one woman. You have behind you so much more than that. You have the resources of the Hall, you have the resources of Dastan, and of Haddon, and of Felton and Hans, and the Frog Paladins. You must use everything you have when the time comes. And I will be there too, to help you, I hope."

McColt clears his throat awkwardly, and leads the heroes back out the way they came. Nothing remains for them.

At the entrance to the Eye, a surprise greets them.

"Heroes!! Well ain't that a pleasant surprise."

"Hans and I were just betting on if you would come out in one piece or no. We were ready to come in after you. And you have new friends. McColt, pleasure to see you."

"You sure you're real this time around?"

"Yes indeed. Haldor, Tesni, it has been too long, though I hardly got to know you properly last time around. Spent most of my time trying to figure out why there were two of me. And Cronk!"

"Ai! There's a warrior! How are ya, ya old Orc?"

"What is the status, heroes? We came as quickly as we possibly could. Travel from Dastan is difficult. Johnny sent word that he was going to be meeting with you, and Vipera had a friend fly us to the shore. We had to catch a wagon from there. Have we missed her again?" Felton glances around.

Poletad hops around joyously and anxiously.

[CorneliusMurdock]

Hans! It has been far too long since Cronk has seen Hans. Cronk is... still breathing.

Felton, Cronk is glad that Felton did not remain imprisoned in Dastan.

Yes. Friends have indeed missed Wren. Cronk is afraid that Wren was able to steal amulet out from friends' noses. Little witch is too quick for own good. Wren will destroy Wren's self and Eubric along with Wren. Cronk is sorry.

[Flipz]

OOC: Cronk should have Roderick's sword, though I still encourage Alexis to trade Cronk the Sword for the Shard. Oops, I fail reading.

"Hans! Sir Poletad! It is good to see you. Felton, I don't believe we had the pleasure of meeting in Dastan, though I have heard much of you."

Arthur bends down to Poletad's eye level and attempts to greet the Frog Paladin in the Language of the Frogs. <Mossy items, certain aged tablet! I grapple to obtained bucket speak of notice job we recieve!> After a few moments of sustained, awkward silence, Arthur leans over and whispers to Alexis. "Umm, any chance you could tell him I said "hi"? And, uh, that you could help me learn his language properly?" Arthur blushes, but his expression turns to one of sadness after Cronk begins to speak. He steps forward dutifully to give his report.

"I must confess, I had hoped that this Quest would be a failure, a wild goose chase that would lead us to knowlegde but otherwise be a waste of our time. I am...sorrowful to say that I was wrong."

"We learned much--about Wren, and about ourselves. Specifically, about me. Several years ago, the Lady Wren, Sir Roderick the Knight, Bal the corageous and loyal Rogue, Triad the wise Acerpusculum Ranger, and Sasha the Barbarian journeyed to this Valley, under the leadership of the Gray Wizard, Party Leader and Cleric. Some time previously, the Gray Wizard had led the Lady Wren and Roderick through the sewers of a city, where they discovered a hidden Temple of Zoot, much like I and my friends did when I was a young boy. I...I will not repeat that story now, but if you wish, later I will recount the tale. The Gray Wizard refused to enter this Temple, but Wren and Roderick went inside, and were greeted with visions from Zoot. Sir Roderick chose to try and summon Zoot, so as to destroy him and become a God of Order, while the Lady's vision was more...trancendental, revealing to her the true beauty of the Chaos she even now seeks. Together, they joined this party, the party seeking the Amulet of Gods, and one by one they betrayed them. Roderick wished to kill them all, but Wren valiantly convinced him to let her seal them instead, preserving them all these years at most of their former vitality. The Gray Wizard was the first to fall, weakened by a Knight of Ennoc and helpless to stop the Lady. Sasha, Northerner and former lover of Roderick, was next to fall, the victim of one of the Last General of Ennoc's foul undead abominations. Next was Bal, who, after saving Wren, Triad, and Roderick from an errant Angel of Ennoc, was repaid for his valiance by being sealed in stone for seven years. Last to fall was Triad, to a rudimentary Chaos Beast Wren summonned unwillingly at the behest of Roderick. Only by her species' natural resilience and unusual physiology was she able to survive for so many years."

"Upon reaching the Eye of Ennoc, Roderick and Wren faced the Last General of Ennoc, still posessed by the Splinter of that god that he had so foolishly tried to summon. Despite the powers of fire and darkness that she wielded and the shield and blade of Sir Roderick, the Lady and the Knight were no match for a god, and Roderick fell. When the General's true, remorseful personality asserted control for a moment, the Lady fled, leaving Roderick to become the Splinter's new host."

"Years pass. We arrive. We, too, battle the Splinter of Ennoc's minions, and in doing so find the way to free the members of the Lost Party. Along the way, the Flowers of Sybl revealed the memories of these Heroes, trapped in time, first victims to the Lady's schemes. At the last, with the Lost Party complete save for the Lady and the Knight, we faced the Splinter of Ennoc together. We fought a pitched and valiant battle against the broken god, and, when it was weakened and Roderick strong enough to hold it in check, Sasha sacrificed herself to take the Amulet, destroying her, Roderick, and the General. That is when the Lady reappeared, and, after a moment's gloating, she stole the Amulet for her own cause. Once she fled, we returned the way we came, and met you."

Arthur remained silent for some while. "Wren Hunters...I must give you warning. The Lady's plan does not make sense. As you know, in Dastan she spoke of needing Sphinx and Ella; Sphinx as a cultist leader who had experience in summoning a god to the mortal realm, and Ella...well, even a marginal study of arcane magicks will tell you that a person already connected to the spiritual realm serves exponentially better as a host for such spirits. The Lady also stole the Spiritus Intendre, a device capable of forcing spirits to submit one's will, while also siphoning off the spirit's energy and transferring it to the user. I'm sure by know you know of the tale of the late Emperor Brunt, who outlawed its use, and of Atramor's encounter with Wren regarding the device."

"The thing I don't understand is this: if the Lady already has Sphinx, why would she need the Amulet? My knowledge of the Chaotic Rituals is vast, and yet I cannot divine its purpose in her ultimate plan. She wishes to usurp Zoot, to become the Goddess of Chaos, and I can see the pieces of her plan leading her to that fate, but I know not why she requires the Amulet as well as the cultist. I feel I am overlooking an obvious piece of the puzzle, even though I have gone great lengths to obtain almost all of them." Arthur's brow furrows. He stares off into the distance for a while, as if attempting to summon...something...but there is no effect, and his eyes retain their usual clarity and hue. He shakes his head. "There is but one thing that comes to mind: she repeated that infuriating anagram from your first Quest against her: A Ace Refill, Owlish Ill, Wilt Orzo. Hans and Felton will recognize those words as Heroica will fall, Zoot will rise. I know not why she chose to repeat that message in such an unusual manner, but perhaps there is some clue related to it that will resurface upon closer inspection of the records. Heroica Library is, of course, open to you all if you wish to utilize it, and I myself plan to peruse the records of the Lady's doings once more upon my return to the Hall. We can discover the 'twist' to her plan. We must, unless we all wish to worship 'Lady Wren, God of Chaos'. I may be born of Chaos and strong with it, but I will not suffer the Lady to rule my fate."

Edited September 28, 2012 by Flipz

[Peppermint_M]

Tesni smiled to see former comrades. "Well met but you missed all the fun."

(OoC: Really now, my power should be greater than 39....)

[Masked Builder]

Alexis follows the party in stunned silence, she's still reeling form Wren's suggestion. When Arthur addresses her she knows she must speak up.

"Speaking of potential, Alexis, I feel that Cronk would be better suited with the Shard of Ennoc. Would you be willing to accept Roderick's sword in exchange for it?"

"Yes I suppose I could roll with that." Alexis hands Cronk the shard.

[quote name='Flipz' date='28 September 2012 - 03:23 AM' timestamp='1348813418' post='1401691'

"Umm, any chance you could tell him I said "hi"? And, uh, that you could help me learn his language properly?" Arthur blushes, but his expression turns to one of sadness after Cronk begins to speak. He steps forward dutifully to give his report.

"Oh sure I can do that." She smiles back.

[Hello there Sir Frog, I've heard you mentioned a few times, but never had a chance to meet you. I am Alexis Fenral, Evoker. Arthur here is trying to say hello.]