Heroica RPG- Quest #117: The Tale of The Caustic Collection

[Kintobor]

"Well, Madame Galuchat, I must say, your story was wonderfully woven as always... however, I do believe it's time I retell mystory." Lucas states eagerly, smoking his pipe with intent. "Sure there was some bloodshed and suspicion... but sometimes it's not what's right in front of us that's the scariest, but what we don't see; the unknown."

As the night waned, the Midnight Society was down to only two story tellers, they're next speaker readjusting his pipe.

"Everything is destined to become known, Lucas... Put please, do continue."

Mallora shoots Isaac a curious glance.

"Your words hold truth, Isaac...yet that which is most fearful resides in the unknowable darkness that lies within us all." The normally soft-spoken woman turns to Lucas, a spark of true interest burning behind her half-lidded eyes. "And that, I sense, is a darkness of which we will soon hear much."

"Then the blind are more courageous than the lot of us. Do tell on Isaac."

"The darkness unseen. No fight nor conflict. I know what you mean."

"But unknown is a little vague for my tastes. Maybe you'd like to give this instance a face, Isaac."

"The tale I tell is of the potential supernatural, since everything I'm about to tell you did really happen. However, whether the events surrounding this tale were supernatural or not... I'll leave that for you to decide. I present for submission to the Midnight Society, the Tale of The Caustic Collection..."

"It all began a few weeks ago, as a group of heroes left Heroica Hall to the docks of Luosh. They had been hired by Gideon Hassilbee, a nobleman who needed assistance in disposing some items...

---Two Weeks Prior---

The Party

Eric (Khorne)

30 year old Human Nord

Level 25 Raider *Natural Respite* *Evasion* *Protected from Fragile, Weakened and Asleep + Immune to Water and Earth*

Power: 42 (25+15+2)

Defense: 5

Health: 43/43 (8+24+7+4)

Gold: 1041

Equipment: Conspirator (WP: 15, causes Blinded; longsword), Pugilist's Gloves (Power +2, protects from Weakened), Heavy Armor (SP:5, protects from Fragile), Boots of Evasion (Wearer takes half damage in front row + Immunity to Water, Earth and Asleep)

Inventory: Godricsleif (WP: 22; Ice-, Lightning-, Darkness-elemental; greatsword), Drengazuli Grom'az (WP:6; Dual Strike; axe), 6 Silverfish Wings (WP:8, retrievable, throwing dagger), 2 Diseased Silverfish Wings (WP:8, causes cursed-effect, retrievable, throwing weapon), Garnet (Earth), 6 Grand Potions, Health Core, 3 Remedies, Neutralizer, Phoenix Essence, 6 Meads, 5 Smelling Salts, 4 Nostrum, 3 Mulled Wine, Dragon Scale, Venom, Deadly Venom, Fire Bomb, Lightning Bomb, Bone, Feather of White (Allows the user to hide for up to three rounds, avoiding Free Hits. The effect ends if the user targets an enemy.)

John 'Heckz' Brutenhal, the Ghostbuster, the Super Sleuth and the School Inspector (Cutcobra)

32 year old male human Sorcerer

Level: 23 2/3 *Immune to Sealed* *Jinxed Spells*

Power Bonus: 10 (Spells)

Defense: 3

Health: 31/31

Ether: 34/34

Gold: 669

Equipment: Solemn Scythe (WP: 12, Darkness elemental Scythe, 1/2 chance of dealing the Sealed Effect), Magician's Gloves (Spellpower +10; suitable for mages; handwear), Robe Of The Archmagi (SP:3, Max. Ether + 5, immune to sealed; bodywear), Bad Luck Charm (Makes the sorcerer’s spells - including Razzmatazz and Sleight of Hand - cause an additional jinxed-effect, increasing their ether cost by 1; suitable for sorcerers; accessory)

Inventory: 2x Skeleton Decoy, 2x Deadly Venom, Rawr (WP:9, dagger), Lovelorn Wand (WP:6, deals enamored-effect), Rat Scepter (WP:3, 4x damage to enemies named “rat”; wand), Pitchfork of Abomination (WP:1, pierces all defenses including SP but breaks after one use; suitable to all classes), Bone Whip (WP:9, damages undead, whip), Wyrd Shield (SP:4, prevents ether reduction; suitable to mystic knights and paladins), Harlot's Outfit (SP: 2, immune to poisoned; suitable for Witches, Sorcerers and Harlots; bodywear/footwear), Buffoon's Hat (Prevents anyone from taking the wearer seriously; protects from Free Hits unless the wearer is the last hero standing; headwear),Watt's Artifact (Makes the user’s attacks and spells three times more effective against demons; accessory), Spellbound Gloves (Spellpower +5; handwear), Opal (Ice), Garnet (Earth), Amethyst (Darkness), Aquamarine (Water), Ether Core, Elixir, Neutralizer, Soma, 3x Mead, 3x Smelling Salts, Nostrum, Bedroll, Shovel, Wicked Perfume (Makes all male humanoid enemies enamored to the user, but makes all female humanoid enemies encouraged; consumable), Blue Jelly, 7 Bones

Throlar Wineghilm

135 year old male Dwarven Knight. *immune to ice and weakened* *avoids free hits from flying enemies*

Level, 12

Power, 25 (12+12+1)

Defense, 6 (5+1)

Health, 26/26 (10+11+5)

Gold, 0

Equipped; Mopagsaber (WP 12, ice elemental longsword), Poncanis Shield (SP 5, ice elemental), Crow Helmet (SP 1, flying enemies do not deal free hits to the wearer, suitable for Knights and Dragoons, headwear), Lion's Plate (Max health +5, Power +1, Immune to weakened, suitable for knights and barbarians, bodywear).

Inventory;

Weapons; Mace and Chain (Mace, WP 3), Elven Sword (WP 5, longsword).

Shields; Elven Shield (SP 5, All elves in the party gain an equal amount of SP so long as the wielder is standing.).

Artifacts; Counterstrike Gloves (If the wearer is damaged by a free hit they counter with strength equal to their level, handwear).

Consumables; Potion x3, Remedy x3, Hint Coin (Gives the user a hint about a puzzle or a tricky situation, Useable only once, Has no monetary value.), Bone, Holy Bomb, Floral Bomb, Air Bomb, Dirt Bomb, Water Bomb, Lightning Bomb, Ice Bomb, Fire Bomb, Smoke Bomb x2, Deadly Venom, Phoenix Essence, Smelling Salts, Nostrum.

Equipment; Bedroll, Shovel, Pickaxe, Magnifying Glass.

Treasures; None.

Decamon Deck, x2 Magic Carp (Aquatic 1), Volt Ant (Electric 1), Tweetybird (Flying 1) Ursa Minor (Eithereal 1).

"The heroes of Heroica, having been escorted via carriage with Gideon's muscle, a man simply known as Ivan, reached the docks in quick time. A fog had rolled in off the open waters, the only sounds being the waves hitting the aging dock and the crackle of Ivan's burning torch as he escorts them to their employer. The party quickly is able to put a name to the face of Gideon Hassilbee, a thin man with a narrower face."

"Ah, heroes of Heroica, your timing is excellent, as always," the man sneers," I am Gideon Hassilbee, a nobleman in the High Kingdoms. I am glad you've agreed to take on this request, seeing as how it's been... a hassle getting the items this far."

"Hmmph. If what I've been told is true, then that's the understatement of the year." The paladin replies, rubbing the sleep out of his eyes.

"Hopefully they have credentials to finish job." Ivan states in a butchered common.

"Now then, I assume you have many questions about the task at hand? Please, allow me to answer any and all questions. I'm certain you three have some, I was forced to keep the nature of the items in question... out of the request." Gideon looks down at the large chest resting at his feet, multiple runes and icons etched into it's wooden frame.

QM Note: Wilkommen, Bienvenue, Welcome! I think you guys are experienced enough to know what to do, but in case you need a refresher, bold whatever you want to interact with! Check your stats over, the last thing I need is your stats all messed up. You should all be receiving a PM thread shortly from me. Don't worry too much about it just yet, but it will be important later. Other than, let's get going.

[Cutcobra]

Heckz walks up to the three men, putting his scythe back in his back assuming it's less dangerous than on the road.

"Hello Mister Guy Who Dresses Nicely. I don't have a lot of questions about the items as I just want to get payed, although there are some magical runes in the chests, are the items that dangerous?"

He closes his jacket, it was beginning to get quite chilly. Then he turns to Gideon again.

"Oh, and, which one of us will be leading here?"

[Khorne]

"Hopefully they have credentials to finish job." Ivan states in a butchered common.

Eric waved away the foreigner's doubts with his hand. "Sure I have enough credentials. I'm not too sure of my companions, though. I haven't met the dandy before and the stunted one is, well, difficult to work with."

"Oh, and, which one of us will be leading here?"

"I am, obviously. I am the most competent, but if you want to try your hand at leading a party, by all means, be my guest", Eric grinned.

He then turned his attention to the employer and his company. Eyeing the mysterious chest, he prodded it with his boot. "So this is the cargo the Paladin Order is too scared off to transport and guard themselves, eh? Veklingar"

Eric tilted his head in Heck's general direction and said: "I second the wizard's question, but more specifically, though, what is in it?"

The Nord's grin turned wider and his eyes narrowed as he noticed their employer's nervous behaviour. "Must be something real special, to get yourself worked up like that..."

[Cutcobra]

"I am, obviously. I am the most competent, but if you want to try your hand at leading a party, by all means, be my guest", Eric grinned.

"So, you must be that one other guy that was chosen besides me and the dwarf. Don't remember your name though, but I'll gladly lead the party as long as this one doesn't have any objections."

He points at Throlar.

"Wait, what am I talking about? If he does have some objections I'll lead anyways."

[Kintobor]

Heckz walks up to the three men, putting his scythe back in his back assuming it's less dangerous than on the road.

"Hello Mister Guy Who Dresses Nicely. I don't have a lot of questions about the items as I just want to get payed, although there are some magical runes in the chests, are the items that dangerous?"

He closes his jacket, it was beginning to get quite chilly. Then he turns to Gideon again.

"Oh, and, which one of us will be leading here?"

"That's Mr. Hassilbee to you," he replies with an edge, "and I'm surprised you want to know nothing of what your hauling to the Paladin Order in Eubric.

The runes on the chest are to ensure the items in question don't get... out of hand. However, we've run into some complications with it. It seems the items in question have... unique properties."

Eric waved away the foreigner's doubts with his hand. "Sure I have enough credentials. I'm not too sure of my companions, though. I haven't met the dandy before and the stunted one is, well, difficult to work with."

Ivan chortles loudly.

"Ivan does not care what you think of companions, although Ivan find humour in description of feminine sorcerer!"

He then turned his attention to the employer and his company. Eyeing the mysterious chest, he prodded it with his boot. "So this is the cargo the Paladin Order is too scared off to transport and guard themselves, eh? Veklingar"

Eric tilted his head in Heck's general direction and said: "I second the wizard's question, but more specifically, though, what is in it?"

The Nord's grin turned wider and his eyes narrowed as he noticed their employer's nervous behaviour. "Must be something real special, to get yourself worked up like that..."

"No, the cargo doesn't want to be transported to the Paladin Order. We've already attempted to send it via carriage. Not two minutes onto the road does the carriage burst into flames, with the only thing not damaged by the wreckage being this chest. The runes clearly did nothing to protect the individuals burnt to a crisp, which is why from here on out you will be taking the items on foot to the Paladin Order.

About a month ago, during an excavation in the countryside, a group of miners in my small plot of land discovered a series of relics. I do not know what they're purpose is, nor what they were used for, nor where they come from, but the moment they set foot into my house they've caused me nothing but trouble! I just want them as far away from me as possible!" Gideon sweats profusely, pulling a handkerchief from his pants and wiping his forehead.

"I'll allow the sorcerer to lead the party, seeing as how he at least has some experience being a "School Inspector" and a "Ghostbuster", whatever those mean."

[Cutcobra]

Ivan chortles loudly.

"Ivan does not care what you think of companions, although Ivan find humour in description of feminine sorcerer!"

Heckz raises an eyebrow, clearly offended.[/]

"What did you say, Woman with a Mustache? It's funny, Unless of course, there's another sorcerer in our party."

After that, he looked at himself in his handmirror, fixing his hair.

Pfft, feminine, I don't want to know what kind of Pixie Dust this guy takes.

"I'll allow the sorcerer to lead the party, seeing as how he at least has some experience being a "School Inspector" and a "Ghostbuster", whatever those mean."

"Don't forget Super Sleuth... whatever that means, although it does sound fabulous."

[Duvors]

"Well, a dandy and a norseman, nice to be working with you gentlemen."

He proffered his hand.

"Congratulations on being chosen Mr. Heckz, I hope that you have solved your hair loss problem? And nice to be working with you again Eric, I hope that I can do the impossible and put the past behind me."

"Now Mr. Gideon," He said addressing their employer, "can you tell us more about these artifacts? You seem perturbed and talk about them as if they were alive, I have never heard the term set foot used in connection with inanimate objects before."

Edited October 23, 2014 by Lord Duvors

[Kintobor]

Heckz raises an eyebrow, clearly offended.[/]

"What did you say, Woman with a Mustache? It's funny, Unless of course, there's another sorcerer in our party."

After that, he looked at himself in his handmirror, fixing his hair.

Pfft, feminine, I don't want to know what kind of Pixie Dust this guy takes.

Ivan glares Heckz down in an intimidating manner, his physique and height making Heckz look puny.

"Do not give Ivan that nonsense, you fop." Ivan tells the sorcerer in a clear and low voice.

"Now Mr. Gideon," He said addressing their employer, "can you tell us more about these artifacts? You seem perturbed and talk about them as if they were alive, I have never heard the term set foot used in connection with inanimate objects before."

"They're is a total of five items. I wouldn't be at all startled if they were possessed, but as it stands, I simply want them disposed of, and the paladins have agreed to do so."

"Which is partially why I'm here. Rollinger is what my peers call me. I've had the time to look over the items in question... and I honestly am not sure what to make of them. They appear to be generic, ancient items. I was not present at the time when any of the events Hassilbee described took place, but if they are indeed cursed, they should be sent to the Paladin Order immediately. I've been sent to look over the items during the trip, and I have orders to accompany you." Rollinger replies, looking towards the party and eyeing them inquisitively.

"By all means, do so. You're not on my list of expenditures. Just get those items away from me!" He sharply turns to the heroes, the nobleman's breath beginning to materialize in the cool air. "I have given the reward to a priest at the Paladin Order Headquarters in Eubric. Once you arrive, you will be given your reward through them. They've given me specific orders, and they've also planned your stops for the road. I'm certain the Paladins will give you something as well for assisting them in ridding the world of those items. Is there any final questions before I give you the map of the route you'll be taking?"

[Duvors]

"They're is a total of five items. I wouldn't be at all startled if they were possessed, but as it stands, I simply want them disposed of, and the paladins have agreed to do so."

"Which is partially why I'm here. Rollinger is what my peers call me. I've had the time to look over the items in question... and I honestly am not sure what to make of them. They appear to be generic, ancient items. I was not present at the time when any of the events Hassilbee described took place, but if they are indeed cursed, they should be sent to the Paladin Order immediately. I've been sent to look over the items during the trip, and I have orders to accompany you." Rollinger replies, looking towards the party and eyeing them inquisitively.

"Ah, I see, glad to have you with us Mr. Rollinger, it will be a pleasure to be working with an associate of such a distinguished group as yours, tell me, what interest do the Hinkwells have in these artifacts?" Edited October 24, 2014 by Lord Duvors

[Khorne]

"No, the cargo doesn't want to be transported to the Paladin Order. We've already attempted to send it via carriage. Not two minutes onto the road does the carriage burst into flames, with the only thing not damaged by the wreckage being this chest. The runes clearly did nothing to protect the individuals burnt to a crisp, which is why from here on out you will be taking the items on foot to the Paladin Order.

"What makes you think it'll come with us without any problem? I'm not sure I'm ready to burst into flames just yet, I actually enjoy living most of the times"

"I'll allow the sorcerer to lead the party, seeing as how he at least has some experience being a "School Inspector" and a "Ghostbuster", whatever those mean."

Eric shrugged. "Whatever. Watching him fail might be fun, but I'll give the sorceror the benefit of the doubt for now." He smiled a toothy grin at Heckz. "Show us what you got, leader".

"Well, a dandy and a norseman, nice to be working with you gentlemen."

He proffered his hand.

"Congratulations on being chosen Mr. Heckz, I hope that you have solved your hair loss problem? And nice to be working with you again Eric, I hope that I can do the impossible and put the past behind me."

"I'm sure we'll get along fine as long as you manage to keep most of your thought to yourself, Dwarf"

"Which is partially why I'm here. Rollinger is what my peers call me. I've had the time to look over the items in question... and I honestly am not sure what to make of them. They appear to be generic, ancient items. I was not present at the time when any of the events Hassilbee described took place, but if they are indeed cursed, they should be sent to the Paladin Order immediately. I've been sent to look over the items during the trip, and I have orders to accompany you." Rollinger replies, looking towards the party and eyeing them inquisitively.[

Eric chuckled. He didn't really see the need in taking one of the Paladin Order with them. "So, Rollo, best steer clear of that chest. Like I said, I'd hate to burst into flames."

[Cutcobra]

"Well, a dandy and a norseman, nice to be working with you gentlemen."

He proffered his hand.

"Congratulations on being chosen Mr. Heckz, I hope that you have solved your hair loss problem?"

"I did, it seems the Spitosaurus' poison lost it's effect on my hair. Oh and, never talk about my hair ever again."

Heckz shakes Throlar's hand quickly and then cleaned his own hand because he didn't want sweat on it.

Ivan glares Heckz down in an intimidating manner, his physique and height making Heckz look puny.

"Do not give Ivan that nonsense, you fop." Ivan tells the sorcerer in a clear and low voice.

"Oh, I'm sorry but is Ivan the one risking himself to burst into flames? No? Then the beautiful fop will give Ivan whatever nonsense he seems fit."

"And if you don't like flames then I'll be happy to just freeze you in the spot."

He says as his hand begins to envelop in an icy aura. Then he turns it back to normal.

"By all means, do so. You're not on my list of expenditures. Just get those items away from me!" He sharply turns to the heroes, the nobleman's breath beginning to materialize in the cool air. "I have given the reward to a priest at the Paladin Order Headquarters in Eubric. Once you arrive, you will be given your reward through them. They've given me specific orders, and they've also planned your stops for the road. I'm certain the Paladins will give you something as well for assisting them in ridding the world of those items. Is there any final questions before I give you the map of the route you'll be taking?"

"Nope, now let's get going after you answer those questions. It's a bit nippy in here... maybe I shouldn't have covered my hand in ice... "

Eric shrugged. "Whatever. Watching him fail might be fun, but I'll give the sorceror the benefit of the doubt for now." He smiled a toothy grin at Heckz. "Show us what you got, leader".

"I'd rather show whoever is ugly or foolish enough to try and attack us on the road what I've got."

He then coveres his eyes.

"And please, don't ever show me that smile again unless you want vomit all over the wares."

[Kintobor]

"Ah, I see, glad to have you with us Mr. Rollinger, it will be a pleasure to be working with an associate of such a distinguished group as yours, tell me, what interest do the Hinkwells have in these artifacts?"

"Hinckwells? Where'd you get that? Why would they care about or know about what's going on here?" Rollinger scratches his stubbly, unshaven chin in confusion.

"What makes you think it'll come with us without any problem? I'm not sure I'm ready to burst into flames just yet, I actually enjoy living most of the times"

Eric chuckled. He didn't really see the need in taking one of the Paladin Order with them. "So, Rollo, best steer clear of that chest. Like I said, I'd hate to burst into flames."

Hassilbee looks around impatiently before spitting out an answer.

"I cannot guarantee that you won't burst into flames, raider, but I hired you for a job, one I expect you to attempt to finish. After all, if what I hear about your organization is true, you'll do anything for a bit of coin."

"Same goes for you, Eric." Rollinger states dryly, readjusting the gear on his back.

"Oh, I'm sorry but is Ivan the one risking himself to burst into flames? No? Then the beautiful fop will give Ivan whatever nonsense he seems fit."

"And if you don't like flames then I'll be happy to just freeze you in the spot."

He says as his hand begins to envelop in an icy aura. Then he turns it back to normal.

"Nope, now let's get going after you answer those questions. It's a bit nippy in here... maybe I shouldn't have covered my hand in ice... "

"Ivan has job. Ivan's job is to ensure Hassilbee doesn't die gruesome and terrifying death. Ivan also shocked girly sorcerer has not already lit himself on fire, considering amount of flammable beauty products sorcerer uses on self." Ivan cracks his meaty knuckles, showing that he means business should Heckz stand in his way.

"Very well then. Here's the route you'll be taking."

Gideon motions for Ivan, who reaches into his satchel and pulls out a piece of parchment. As Gideon folds it out, the paper notices it's a map of Uland.

"We're currently in Luosh. Considering you're going by foot, you're going to have to sleep while on the road. Fortunately for you, we've found some inns in the area where you can rest."

"Our first stops Bric'lin, and from there it's straight down the Eubric Highway... permitting we don't burst into flames.

Are we ready to head out?" The party notices Gideon pulls out a key, tied around his nick with a piece of string which was hidden by his collar, fumbling with it.

[Duvors]

"Hinckwells? Where'd you get that? Why would they care about or know about what's going on here?" Rollinger scratches his stubbly, unshaven chin in confusion.

"Oh, so this isn't the Hinkwell symbol?" said Throlar tapping the incredibly obvious Hinkwell symbol on Rollinger's armor.

"Well Mr. Gideon." said Throlar before Rollinger had a chance to answer, "It seems very clear, but before we go, ​what are these artifacts exactly? Aside from generic, which is pretty much everything we've been told."

Edited October 25, 2014 by Lord Duvors

[Cutcobra]

"Ivan has job. Ivan's job is to ensure Hassilbee doesn't die gruesome and terrifying death. Ivan also shocked girly sorcerer has not already lit himself on fire, considering amount of flammable beauty products sorcerer uses on self." Ivan cracks his meaty knuckles, showing that he means business should Heckz stand in his way.

"Ivan should use flammable beauty products, considering his face. And a bath too. But don't worry, today is not the day I spend my precious ether on you."

"Our first stops Bric'lin, and from there it's straight down the Eubric Highway... permitting we don't burst into flames.

Are we ready to head out?" The party notices Gideon pulls out a key, tied around his nick with a piece of string which was hidden by his collar, fumbling with it.

"Yes, I want to get out of the filthy road as soon as possible. My clothes are already ruined, and they were special fabric too. I also want to get payed as soon as possible."

Edited October 25, 2014 by Cutcobra

[Kintobor]

"Oh, so this isn't the Hinkwell symbol?" said Throlar tapping the incredibly obvious Hinkwell symbol on Rollinger's armor.

"Well Mr. Gideon." said Throlar before Rollinger had a chance to answer, "It seems very clear, but before we go, ​what are these artifacts exactly? Aside from generic, which is pretty much everything we've been told."

QM Note: It's a part I used. I don't actually own the armour that Sandy likes to use for the paladins with the eagle, so just bear with me please.

"Just because I wear a crown on my armour doesn't mean it automatically makes me supportive of the Hinckwell's. The crown has been used before by many cultures as a motif for their group. My angel will show herself in combat, and then hopefully your thoughts of me being supportive of the Hinckwells will end. Then again I've never met a dwarf that wasn't somewhat shortsighted." Rollinger smiles assuringly, tapping his nose cockily.

"There's five items in total. A mask, a dagger, a goblet, a primitive totem, and some kind of scroll. They're old, possibly predating the sinking of Mercutio." Gideon replies, a look of fear spreading across him.

"Ivan should use flammable beauty products, considering his face. And a bath too. But don't worry, today is not the day I spend my precious ether on you."

"Yes, I want to get out of the filthy road as soon as possible. My clothes are already ruined, and they were special fabric too. I also want to get payed as soon as possible."

Ivan scoffs and grins intently. He's obviously heard enough to make a solid opinion on the sorcerer.

QM Note: I'll wait for Khorne to reply before I get you on the open road. That is, unless you burst into flames before hand.

[Duvors]

QM Note: It's a part I used. I don't actually own the armour that Sandy likes to use for the paladins with the eagle, so just bear with me please.

"Just because I wear a crown on my armour doesn't mean it automatically makes me supportive of the Hinckwell's. The crown has been used before by many cultures as a motif for their group. My angel will show herself in combat, and then hopefully your thoughts of me being supportive of the Hinckwells will end. Then again I've never met a dwarf that wasn't somewhat shortsighted." Rollinger smiles assuringly, tapping his nose cockily.

(OOC; )

"Being insulting will not do you any favors." said Throlar, speaking very quietly but still audible enough that everyone knew he had said something.

"There's five items in total. A mask, a dagger, a goblet, a primitive totem, and some kind of scroll. They're old, possibly predating the sinking of Mercutio." Gideon replies, a look of fear spreading across him.

"Good, now, about that key you're fiddling with, is it the key to this chest?"

[Khorne]

"There's five items in total. A mask, a dagger, a goblet, a primitive totem, and some kind of scroll. They're old, possibly predating the sinking of Mercutio." Gideon replies, a look of fear spreading across him.

"That's a weird assortment of attributes", Eric said, not seeing any link between the items. He cocked an eyebrow. The Nord had heard of 'Mercution', but he couldn't quite place it in time. He also hardly knew what happened to the place or why it was so special.

"Let's move out. The sooner we hit the road, the better. Means less time to spend with stunty here", Eric said as he pointed a thumb at Throlar.

I'll edit my post tomorrow, to give a more decent reply. I don't have time now, but I didn't want to hold the quest up for the others

Edited October 26, 2014 by Khorne

[Kintobor]

The Party

Eric (Khorne)

30 year old Human Nord

Level 25 Raider *Natural Respite* *Evasion* *Protected from Fragile, Weakened and Asleep + Immune to Water and Earth*

Power: 42 (25+15+2)

Defense: 5

Health: 43/43 (8+24+7+4)

Gold: 1041

Equipment: Conspirator (WP: 15, causes Blinded; longsword), Pugilist's Gloves (Power +2, protects from Weakened), Heavy Armor (SP:5, protects from Fragile), Boots of Evasion (Wearer takes half damage in front row + Immunity to Water, Earth and Asleep)

Inventory: Godricsleif (WP: 22; Ice-, Lightning-, Darkness-elemental; greatsword), Drengazuli Grom'az (WP:6; Dual Strike; axe), 6 Silverfish Wings (WP:8, retrievable, throwing dagger), 2 Diseased Silverfish Wings (WP:8, causes cursed-effect, retrievable, throwing weapon), Garnet (Earth), 6 Grand Potions, Health Core, 3 Remedies, Neutralizer, Phoenix Essence, 6 Meads, 5 Smelling Salts, 4 Nostrum, 3 Mulled Wine, Dragon Scale, Venom, Deadly Venom, Fire Bomb, Lightning Bomb, Bone, Feather of White (Allows the user to hide for up to three rounds, avoiding Free Hits. The effect ends if the user targets an enemy.)

John 'Heckz' Brutenhal, the Ghostbuster, the Super Sleuth and the School Inspector (Cutcobra) *Party Leader*

32 year old male human Sorcerer

Level: 23 2/3 *Immune to Sealed* *Jinxed Spells*

Power Bonus: 10 (Spells)

Defense: 3

Health: 31/31

Ether: 34/34

Gold: 669

Equipment: Solemn Scythe (WP: 12, Darkness elemental Scythe, 1/2 chance of dealing the Sealed Effect), Magician's Gloves (Spellpower +10; suitable for mages; handwear), Robe Of The Archmagi (SP:3, Max. Ether + 5, immune to sealed; bodywear), Bad Luck Charm (Makes the sorcerer’s spells - including Razzmatazz and Sleight of Hand - cause an additional jinxed-effect, increasing their ether cost by 1; suitable for sorcerers; accessory)

Inventory: 2x Skeleton Decoy, 2x Deadly Venom, Rawr (WP:9, dagger), Lovelorn Wand (WP:6, deals enamored-effect), Rat Scepter (WP:3, 4x damage to enemies named “rat”; wand), Pitchfork of Abomination (WP:1, pierces all defenses including SP but breaks after one use; suitable to all classes), Bone Whip (WP:9, damages undead, whip), Wyrd Shield (SP:4, prevents ether reduction; suitable to mystic knights and paladins), Harlot's Outfit (SP: 2, immune to poisoned; suitable for Witches, Sorcerers and Harlots; bodywear/footwear), Buffoon's Hat (Prevents anyone from taking the wearer seriously; protects from Free Hits unless the wearer is the last hero standing; headwear),Watt's Artifact (Makes the user’s attacks and spells three times more effective against demons; accessory), Spellbound Gloves (Spellpower +5; handwear), Opal (Ice), Garnet (Earth), Amethyst (Darkness), Aquamarine (Water), Ether Core, Elixir, Neutralizer, Soma, 3x Mead, 3x Smelling Salts, Nostrum, Bedroll, Shovel, Wicked Perfume (Makes all male humanoid enemies enamored to the user, but makes all female humanoid enemies encouraged; consumable), Blue Jelly, 7 Bones

Throlar Wineghilm

135 year old male Dwarven Knight. *immune to ice and weakened* *avoids free hits from flying enemies*

Level, 12

Power, 25 (12+12+1)

Defense, 6 (5+1)

Health, 26/26 (10+11+5)

Gold, 0

Equipped; Mopagsaber (WP 12, ice elemental longsword), Poncanis Shield (SP 5, ice elemental), Crow Helmet (SP 1, flying enemies do not deal free hits to the wearer, suitable for Knights and Dragoons, headwear), Lion's Plate (Max health +5, Power +1, Immune to weakened, suitable for knights and barbarians, bodywear).

Inventory;

Weapons; Mace and Chain (Mace, WP 3), Elven Sword (WP 5, longsword).

Shields; Elven Shield (SP 5, All elves in the party gain an equal amount of SP so long as the wielder is standing.).

Artifacts; Counterstrike Gloves (If the wearer is damaged by a free hit they counter with strength equal to their level, handwear).

Consumables; Potion x3, Remedy x3, Hint Coin (Gives the user a hint about a puzzle or a tricky situation, Useable only once, Has no monetary value.), Bone, Holy Bomb, Floral Bomb, Air Bomb, Dirt Bomb, Water Bomb, Lightning Bomb, Ice Bomb, Fire Bomb, Smoke Bomb x2, Deadly Venom, Phoenix Essence, Smelling Salts, Nostrum.

Equipment; Bedroll, Shovel, Pickaxe, Magnifying Glass.

Treasures; None.

Decamon Deck, x2 Magic Carp (Aquatic 1), Volt Ant (Electric 1), Tweetybird (Flying 1) Ursa Minor (Eithereal 1).

Paladin Dameon Rollinger *Immune to Light elemental attacks*

Level 18 Paladin

HP: 38/38 (10+11+17)

Ether: 19/19 (17+2)

SP: 5

Gold: 175

Equipment: Rollinger's Paladin Armour (SP: +4, Max Ether: +2, Suitable for Rollinger, body wear), Holy Symbol (Protects from Light based elemental attacks, accessory, suitable for Rollinger) Silver Greatsword (WP: 8, damages undead, suitable for Rollinger), Round Shield (SP: +3)

Inventory: Grand Tonic, Potion, Mead, Sack (Quest Item)

"Good, now, about that key you're fiddling with, is it the key to this chest?"

"Are you daft? Of course it is! Now, just... give me a moment..." Gideon bends down and unlocks the chest, the runes on the chest fading as Gideon motions for Ivan to retrieve the items, all of them held in a sack. Ivan passes the sack to Rollinger who hoists it over his shoulder.

"Ensure it gets to the Paladin Order without fail! Now then, if you'll excuse me, I want to get out of here, and away from those... things!" Gideon hisses, as he and Ivan depart through the fog, the bulking bodyguard grabbing the chest and hoisting it over one shoulder.

"I see no reason to linger here. Let's head out and see if we burst into flames, shall we?"

The foursome depart for the road heading out of Luosh, their bodies remaining intact and not on fire as they leave town. The fog continues to creep in, the highway being unnaturally quiet, for not a soul had passed them since they left the coastal town. The only noise was the occasional chirp from a bird or rustling in the thicket that was beginning to surround them as the road led it's way closer to the Murkwood.

"Well, at least we're still in one piece." Rollinger jokes, trying to relieve the stagnant quiet that had filled the air.

Clop. Clop. Clop.

The sound of horses hooves hitting the ground slowly echoes behind the party, the equine's pace increasing like a racing heartbeat.

Clop clop, clop clop, clop clop.

The party can see the figure of a horse and a squat looking rider covered by the dense fog skulking behind them. It's too difficult to make out any real details.

"It could just be a traveller or trader... or it could be something else..." What will the party do?

[Cutcobra]

"It could just be a traveller or trader... or it could be something else..." What will the party do?

"Let's keep going. If it causes trouble we kill it, and if it's just a traveller or a trader as you said then we just mock him for being ugly and keep going. What do the rest of you think?"

He asks Throlar and Eric.

Edited October 26, 2014 by Cutcobra

[Khorne]

"Let's keep going. If it causes trouble we kill it, and if it's just a traveller or a trader as you said then we just mock him for being ugly and keep going. What do the rest of you think?"

He asks Throlar and Eric.

"I'm with you on the whole 'kill-it-if-it-causes-trouble'-part, but I'm not quite sure mocking someone for being ugly will be helpful to our goal.", Eric said and then paused. "We could mock him for being weak, though"

His eyes widened and the Nord continued, "then we could kill him, perhaps and take his belongings". Eric coughed dryly. "But first, lets's find out what we're dealing with, exactly".

[Duvors]

"Let's keep going. If it causes trouble we kill it, and if it's just a traveller or a trader as you said then we just mock him for being ugly and keep going. What do the rest of you think?"

"I think the weather is lovely, don't you?"

"As for the rider, ignore him, he probably has nothing to do with us, come on, onwards to victory and bed."

His eyes widened and the Nord continued, "then we could kill him, perhaps and take his belongings".

"Rollinger might not approve, but you could kill him too if you want, I just wish that some of these trees were fruit bearing, I'm starving!"

[Cutcobra]

"I'm with you on the whole 'kill-it-if-it-causes-trouble'-part, but I'm not quite sure mocking someone for being ugly will be helpful to our goal.", Eric said and then paused. "We could mock him for being weak, though"

"Weak, ugly, is there a difference?"

"Rollinger might not approve, but you could kill him too if you want, I just wish that some of these trees were fruit bearing, I'm starving!"

"We've been like, what, 1 or 2 hours on the road and you are already starving."

No wonder you're so fat.

"Now, let's keep going. I want to get payed."

Edited October 26, 2014 by Cutcobra

[Duvors]

"We've been like, what, 1 or 2 hours on the road and you are already starving."

"I didn't have breakfast, I sort of thought that this was going to be more important, apparently not."

[Kintobor]

"Typical of a nord to go straight to the killin'." Rollinger states, rather disgusted by Eric's suggestion, "Oh, I know where you hail from, raider, it's not that hard to tell. We're not killin' anyone unless they provoke us. Heckz, you may be the leader of this party, but I am still a representative of Ennoc, and there won't be none of that while I'm here. If we're in agreement to let the rider by, let's keep moving." Rollinger coughs coarsely afterwards as the party decides to move on and avoid the rider behind them. As they continue to walk they hear the horse's hooves continue to trail a little ways behind them, getting closer and closer.

Clop clop, clop clop, clop clop.

"Who's there? Show yourself!" Rollinger calls out. The fog had begun to envelop the party as the horse jerks behind them, looking restless. The squat rider's silhouette stirs the reins with one hand while their steed moves through the fog to reveal a pitch black coat with worn and rusting buckles strapped around the horses head, it's hellish, piercing red eyes looking through the party members, air blasting through it's nostrils. The squat figure remains veiled by the fog.

"Ne-eeeeeigh..."

"Do not bar me of my path," a female voice rings out, lofty and detached, "They call to me... they want me to return them..."

"Oh boy..." How will the party respond?

[Duvors]

Rollinger calls out. The fog had begun to envelop the party as the horse jerks behind them, looking restless. The squat rider's silhouette stirs the reins with one hand while their steed moves through the fog to reveal a pitch black coat with worn and rusting buckles strapped around the horses head, it's hellish, piercing red eyes looking through the party members, air blasting through it's nostrils. The squat figure remains veiled by the fog.

"Ne-eeeeeigh..."

"Do not bar me of my path," a female voice rings out, lofty and detached, "They call to me... they want me to return them..."

"Oh boy..." How will the party respond?

"Oh goodie, a crazy woman on a creepy horse, how scary."