Sandy

"I would like to buy one shovel, please" Ellaria said, offering 10 gold. "I really don't like being underground, so at least I can try to dig my way out with one."

The Oracle nodded again. "She was never a full Sister, even though she was a novice once here in Salmanda, a long time ago. Her motives are not for me to tell, but surely you know there is much at stake over in Eubric. Salmanda is a wealthy city, and having the Almagesta as an ally would count for something, would it not?" The Oracle then turned her gaze on the blue flames lit outside the temple. "What comes to my gift, I see what my goddess allows me to see. I am but a human, my mind could not possibly hold knowledge of everything that was, is and will be. But I get glances, and that is more than most people get. But you are right, I do not need my visions for your question. The Palace District is the place where you can satisfy all of those needs." She then turned away from Boomingham. "You may call me the Oracle. What other name I had I left behind a long time ago. Good luck with your endeavours, Lord Boomingham. And beware of snakes." The Oracle then disappeared into the shrine. "So, you are one of the fabled Heroicans, then? Should have figured it out. Maybe one day we will come to your city, then, but it sounds to me there is a lot of competition for fortune and glory there already. Salmanda, on the other hand, seems to be entrenched in wealth - even the roofs are made of gold here!" QM Note: Remember that everything is totally optional. You can choose the subquests to complete. Also, you only need to rest once in two days to avoid fatigue.

The Oracle raised an eyebrow. "Gold is such a mundane offering for a goddess. You would give more of it to a hooker, were you the type to use that kind of services. Most people come here bearing rare artefacts or great treasures. But if that is what you want to give, then I shall lift the veil of fate for you - if only just a little. What is it you want to know?"

Sure, I have time to play. 1) Have you played mafia before and/or have you graduated from a mafia school? Umm, yes...? 2) Will you be available for the duration of the game? Yes, if the Fates allow. 3) Let's say in a totally hypothetical situation that's not going to be used when assigning you a character of course that you wanted to open a store. What would that store be and why? My secret dream has always been to run a nerd shop with boargames, comics, plushies, roleplaying stuff and of course LEGO. 4) Defiantly or definitely? Definatily. 5) Please write a sixty page dissertation on the theory of mafia games. Pfft, no way! 6) That last one is a joke, please don't do that. Okay, now I just have to do it.

They sure do!

QM Note: The Sanctuary is a different place. Sanctity Street is the "outside area" of the Holy District. Every region has one default location you go to once you enter it. The Oracle nodded. "You are correct, Sir Boomingham. We Oracles of Fabula Sibylla are few and far between. Getting glimpses of what has been, what is and what will be does not equal for an easy life, but the goddess watches over us. If you want to learn about your future, please make an offering to Fabula Sibylla. That is the price you have to pay for it. The price I pay is much steeper..." The mask hid the Oracle's face, but Boomingham could hear a hint of sadness and bitterness in her voice. Periwinkle tossed 25 gold on Heckz's feet. "I could have payed for my own ticket, you know?" Stepping through the gate, the two saw all sorts of strange and fantastic creatures locked up in cages. There weren't many visitors in the zoo anymore, so they could overhear some conversations. "That's a good hippogriff! Yes, you are!" "Boooring..." "Sebek, this is sickening!" "It has to be tonight, Sparrow!" "Yeah, before the rich wanker catches a wind of us." Party at Marmaduc's Menagerie: John 'Heckz' Brutenhal, the Ghostbuster, the Super Sleuth and the School Inspector (Cutcobra) 32 year old male human Sorcerer Level 25 2/3 *Jinxed Spells at Double Cost* *Darkness Spells Cause Weakened* Power: 37 (25+12) (Spellpower: 47 (25+12+10)) Defense: 0 Health: 33/33 (5+24+4) Ether: 29/36 (5+24+1+5+1) Gold: 605 Equipment: Solemn Scythe (WP: 12, darkness-elemental scythe, 1/2 chance of causing sealed), Magician's Gloves (Spellpower +10; suitable for mages; handwear), Cloak of Blood Magic (+5 ether, attacks made with darkness magic cause weakened; suitable for mages, necromancers and chi monks; 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: Rawr (WP:9, dagger), 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), 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), Robe Of The Archmagi (SP:3, Max. Ether + 5, immune to sealed; bodywear), Opal (Ice), Garnet (Earth), Amethyst (Darkness), Aquamarine (Water), Ether Core, Elixir, Neutralizer, Phoenix Essence, 3x Mead, Smelling Salts, Demeter Bomb, 2x Smoke Bomb, 2x Deadly Venom, 2x Lovely Perfume (Makes all opponents enamored with the user for 3 rounds when used; consumable), Heady Perfume (Makes non-humanoid monsters avoid attacking the party unless provoked. Effect lasts for one section of the day before wearing out.), 7 Bones, Bedroll, Shovel, Pickaxe, Magnifying Glass, Telescope, Magic Compass, Blue Jelly, Old Teddy (quest item), Abran Firefox (quest item), Cactoid Flower (quest item) Periwinkle (NPC, controlled by Khorne) 19 years old female human Cleric Level 31 1/4 *Divert Attacks* *Immune to stunned, poisoned, bleeding, cursed, asleep, fast asleep, confused and hexed* Power: 32 (31+1) Health: 39/39 (9+30) Ether: 34/35 (5+30) Gold: 18 Equipment: Jaws' Mop (WP:1, double damage against aquatic enemies; broomstick), Narcissus Mirror (User has 1/2 chance to divert all attacks to the next ally in turn; accessory), Periwinkle Ribbon (Grants immunity to stunned, poisoned, bleeding, cursed, asleep, fast asleep, confused and hexed; suitable for Periwinkle only; headwear) Inventory: Remedy, Neutralizer, Tiger Balm The other black knight raised his goblet. "Shisstersh! Those white witchez arre ev'rywhere! One even whent to the palice shee the Alm'gista earlier today! Wemmen, can't live wiz 'em, can't live wizzout 'em! Am I rite?"

"You might be right, Atters. It is worth a shot." Ellaria inhaled the blue spores as well.

Of course running battles have become more complex since people moved onto the higher classes and own many items that need to be taken into equation. But quest hosting itself has gotten easier now that I'm on my 25th quest to host (counting FoG) - I've developed a certain routine to it. As you've seen, I like to sometimes push the boundaries of the quests and deliberately make them harder for me. Sometimes it succeeds, sometimes it's a trainwreck, but it's always refreshing to learn what more can be done within the context of this game and what can't. I recommend all experienced QMs to push yourselves sometimes, too.

Rhiannon drew a deep breath of air and started laying out the facts. "So Rex sent you to sway my mind. HA! That self-centered brickhead must have run out of clean loincloths! Did you hear what the buffoon did? He tried to kiss a Sister of Danab in front of my eyes! All he cares is his job and his booze! NO! I refuse to be his slave anymore! Not until he starts paying some attention to me! I don't even remember when was the last time he brought me flowers or took me out to eat - let alone bought me something nice!" It looks like the way to Rhiannon's heart was through classic romanticism. Subquest "Big Love" updated! Big Love Assignment: “There is nothing I, Rex the Rhinotaur, dare not face – except the wrath of my wife Rhiannon. I did something that pissed her off and she stomped away. Can you find her and do something to appease her anger?” ~Rex the Rhinotaur, the Mighty Mercenary Reward: “My mercenary services for as long as you stay in Salmanda, free of charge.” Bring flowers Take out to eat Buy something nice Nalah laughed at Eric's courting. "Haha, you mistake me for a delicate flower, Eric of the North. Many men want to share my bed, but few can stand my claws." Nalah flashed her razorsharp nail. "Firemane is not a surname, either. Me and the others just call ourselves by these monickers. It's our thing." "Yeah. We are actually a group of friends from Lagravis Village in Terra Chima. None of us looked forward to a future of hunting, fishing or farming, so we decided to jump to the next ship west and seek our fortune abroad. We tried Njago and Nagashan already, and now we are here. We heard of an insanely rich fellow called Marmaduc who hires adventurers and mercenaries to gather all sorts of treasures and strange creatures for his collections, and thought he might have a job opening. Too bad the folks in Salmanda seem wary of outsiders, so we haven't managed to get an audience with Marmaduc, yet. Apparently you have to be influential enough in the eyes of the locals to get to see him. What a load of crocodile dung!"

Ellaria nodded at the mushroomheaded woman. "Greetings, shopkeeper! My name is Doctor Arbour, representative of the Guild of Invision of Eubric. Umm, what exactly it is you are selling here?"

"Here you go, sires. I assume you want to drink them right away." The bartender took the gold from Eric and Sarge and poured them two meads. The Pharpharian jolted out of his seat and stared at Sarge in terror. "Sir! Yes, sir!!!" The Pharpharian then disappeared out of the door swiftly as wind. Subquest "Game of Life and Death" has failed! The drunken black knight collected the Decamon cards that the tourist left behind. "Told him he wash waaay out of hizz league..." The werelioness grinned at Eric. "I wouldn't mess around with that fellow. He may be drunken, but he is one of the Royal Rainbow Knights, the elite force of the Almagesta. There are numerous ways you can get into trouble in this city, but getting involved with the royalty is the last thing you will want to do. What comes to me, I am just here to find some fortune and glory with some friends of mine." The werelioness extended her paw. "Nalah Firemane, pleased to meet you." Party at the Lodestar Inn: Eric (Khorne) *Party Second-in-Command* 30 year old norseman Raider Level 27 *Natural Respite* *Evasion* *Immune to Fragile, Weakened, Asleep, Water and Earth* *Encouraged* Power: 51 (27+22+2) Defense: 5 Health: 50/50 (8+7+26+4+5) Gold: 207 Equipment: Godricsleif (WP: 22; Ice-, Lightning-, Darkness-elemental; greatsword), Pugilist's Gloves (Power +2, protects from Weakened; handwear), Heavy Armor (SP:5, protects from Fragile; bodywear), Boots of Evasion (Wearer takes half damage in front row + Immunity to Water, Earth and Asleep; footwear) Inventory: Weapons: Conspirator (WP:18, causes Blinded; longsword), 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) Spell Items: Garnet (Earth) Consumables: Potion, 10 Grand Potions, Health Core, 3 Elixirs, 3 Remedies, Neutralizer, 7 Meads, 6 Smelling Salts, 3 Nostrum, 5 Mulled Wine, Ambrosia, Dragon Scale, Venom, Deadly Venom, 2 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.), Fire Bomb, Lightning Bomb, Aeolus Bomb, Feather of Lithe (Makes the user nimble for three rounds, giving them a 1/3 chance to completely avoid rolls of COUNTER and DAMAGE and Free Hits.), 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.), Bone Sgt. Jon McEncy (Pyrovisionary) *Party Leader* 54 year old male human Black Knight Level 23 *Immune to Blinded and Stunned* *Poisonous Defense* *Permanently Hastened* *Encouraged* Power: 48 (23+21+2+2) Defense: 20 (16+4) Health: 47/47 (7+22+9+3+3+3) Gold: 376 Equipment: Demonic Scissors (WP:21, dual strike, Light and Darkness elemental, Hollow [Potion], dagger), Serpenthead Shield (SP:16, causes poisoned by 2-effect to anyone physically attacking the user, shield), Pegleg of Hastening (Permanent Hastened effect to the user; Immune to Blinded, suitable to Sarge only; footwear), Black Knight's Armour (SP:4, protects from stunned-effect; suitable for black knights; bodywear), Swift boots (Changes HIDE into STEAL & HIDE, allowing the wearer to steal gold equal to the target’s level if it carries gold in addition to hiding) Inventory: Weapons Wooden Spear (WP:4, wood-elemental spear) Artifacts Monkey Armor (SP:4, immune to earth and bound; suitable to knights, beast warriors, dragoons, skirmishers and winged warriors; bodywear), Ranger’s Quiver (WP +1 to bows and crossbows, suitable for rangers, beast warriors, infiltrators and winged warriors; backwear), Sterope’s Headdress (Grants the ability to spend a turn to fly out of a battle and return to it later if it is still going; the wearer cannot affect the battle in any way when they are away from it; suitable to winged warriors only; headwear) Spell Items: Garnet (Earth), “True Love Serenade” (restores 50 health to the rest of the party per round; costs 10 ether; Battle Song) Consumables: 3 Potions, 2 Grand potions, Health Core, 4 Remedies, 2 Phoenix Essences, 4 Venoms, Deadly Venom, 3 Smoke Bombs, Sleep Bomb, Gold Ring (worth 15 gold; can be given to someone to make them enamored with the giver), 2 Bones, 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.) Tools: Bedroll, Shovel, Pickaxe, Telescope, Magic Compass, Magnifying Glass, Business Card Location: Lodestar Inn, The Port Time: Afternoon of the First Day Influence: 1 Subquests: It did not take long for the pair to reach the walled area in the dunes that held the Menagerie. A hulking ogre was guarding the main gate. "Evening. It's almost closing time, but I'll let you in if you be quick about it. The entrance fee is 25 gold per person." Party at Marmaduc's Menagerie: John 'Heckz' Brutenhal, the Ghostbuster, the Super Sleuth and the School Inspector (Cutcobra) 32 year old male human Sorcerer Level 25 2/3 *Jinxed Spells at Double Cost* *Darkness Spells Cause Weakened* Power: 37 (25+12) (Spellpower: 47 (25+12+10)) Defense: 0 Health: 33/33 (5+24+4) Ether: 29/36 (5+24+1+5+1) Gold: 630 Equipment: Solemn Scythe (WP: 12, darkness-elemental scythe, 1/2 chance of causing sealed), Magician's Gloves (Spellpower +10; suitable for mages; handwear), Cloak of Blood Magic (+5 ether, attacks made with darkness magic cause weakened; suitable for mages, necromancers and chi monks; 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: Rawr (WP:9, dagger), 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), 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), Robe Of The Archmagi (SP:3, Max. Ether + 5, immune to sealed; bodywear), Opal (Ice), Garnet (Earth), Amethyst (Darkness), Aquamarine (Water), Ether Core, Elixir, Neutralizer, Phoenix Essence, 3x Mead, Smelling Salts, Demeter Bomb, 2x Smoke Bomb, 2x Deadly Venom, 2x Lovely Perfume (Makes all opponents enamored with the user for 3 rounds when used; consumable), Heady Perfume (Makes non-humanoid monsters avoid attacking the party unless provoked. Effect lasts for one section of the day before wearing out.), 7 Bones, Bedroll, Shovel, Pickaxe, Magnifying Glass, Telescope, Magic Compass, Blue Jelly, Old Teddy (quest item), Abran Firefox (quest item), Cactoid Flower (quest item) Periwinkle (NPC, controlled by Khorne) 19 years old female human Cleric Level 31 1/4 *Divert Attacks* *Immune to stunned, poisoned, bleeding, cursed, asleep, fast asleep, confused and hexed* Power: 32 (31+1) Health: 39/39 (9+30) Ether: 34/35 (5+30) Gold: 43 Equipment: Jaws' Mop (WP:1, double damage against aquatic enemies; broomstick), Narcissus Mirror (User has 1/2 chance to divert all attacks to the next ally in turn; accessory), Periwinkle Ribbon (Grants immunity to stunned, poisoned, bleeding, cursed, asleep, fast asleep, confused and hexed; suitable for Periwinkle only; headwear) Inventory: Remedy, Neutralizer, Tiger Balm Rhiannon looked confused. "'HUH? Are you mistaking me for the queen? Or is this some sort of ploy to lure me into a dark alley? Mind you, I am a married woman! ...Although sometimes my lousy husband makes me wish I wasn't." Party at the Sanctity Street: Lord Lawrence Boomingham (Zepher) 48 years old human Paladin Level 33 3/4 *Immune to Darkness, Fire, Fragile, Stunned, Sleep, Weakened, and Blindness* *Encouraged* Power: 52 (33+14+4+1) Defense: 11 (7+4) Health: 47/56 (10+32+11+2+1) Ether: 33/33 Gold: 320 Equipment: Frozen Saber (WP: 14; light-, ice- and wind-elemental; inflicts stunned; great sword), Round Metal Shield (SP:7), Tome of Affluence (+10 Gold if equipped for the entirety of a battle; grants immunity to fragile, asleep, weakened, blindness, darkness and fire; accessory), Counterstrike Gloves (If the wearer is damaged by a Free Hit, they counter with strength equal to their level; handwear.), Scarlet Hood (SP:4, grants immunity to stunned) Inventory: Weapons: Lullaby Wand (WP:6, inflicts asleep), Silver Sword (WP: 18, Longsword), Scupperer (WP: 17; darkness-, fire- and earth-elemental; inflicts bleeding and poisoned by 10; great sword) Artifacts: Hood of Belthazar Bluehood (Power +4; Ether -6; headwear), Chains of the Pongcanis Chief (Hero Pierces SP if fighting from Front, Enemies ignore SP if hero fights from the back row, cannot be removed in battle), Amulet of Optimism (Adds the confused-effect to all attacks; accessory, suitable to Erdathcath only) Spell Items: Amethyst (Darkness), Scroll of Recklessness (Encouraged and Fragile; costs 5 Ether; 50/50 chance), Scroll of Blindness, Scroll of Weakening, Scroll of Fragility, Scroll of Sealing, Emerald Lamp of Summoning (0/3), “True Love Serenade” (restores 50 health to the rest of the party per round; costs 10 ether; Battle Song) Consumables: Potion, Health Core, x2 Remedy, Elixir, Phoenix Essence, x6 Mead, x3 Nostrum, Ambrosia, x2 Smelling Salts, Fire Brandy (Encouraged, Immune to Ice), Fireball Whiskey (Immunity to Fire One Battle OR 20 Fire Damage All Enemies), Hamantasch (Lucky, Blessed), Jinxy Juice, Feather of Flight (Allows the user to flee from the battle when used.), Hair of the Dog, x2 Grating Stone, Oculoid Miasma, Oculoid Fireworks, Saber Teeth, Mythril Shard Tools: Bedroll, Shovel, Pickaxe

The wiki has also been updated with these changes now. I also forgot that the extra Minstrel's Battle Songs that have been dropped during quests need tweaking as well. The changes made for those are marked in red: Hundred Hero Hymn (Battle Song that doubles the current and maximum health for the rest of the party for the remainder of the round. Stacks with the inspired-effect. Costs 2 ether per ally.) Serenade of Water (Causes Water damage equal to the minstrel's level to all enemies per round for as long as the song is sung. Costs 2 ether per damaged enemy. Battle Song) True Love Serenade (Restores 50 health to the rest of the party instantly. Costs 2 ether per healed ally. Battle Song) Murder on the Dancefloor (Has 1/6 chance of instantly knocking out each opponent (unless immune to sudden death) when sung. Costs 5 ether per non-immune enemy. Battle Song)

Of course this is all hypothetical talk, since that class is obviously never going to happen. But it does have a few good ideas that could be implemented to some other class.

But if the class is only open for people with 10.000 gold, wouldn't they lose the access to it when they go under that amount?

"Sorry, viking, but I only keep taps for frequent patrons. If you want to haggle, go to the Souk. But talk is free, of course." The Sun Elf looked around to see if anybody was listening and leaned closer. "I can tell you that the gathering of the Sisters brews trouble for the whole city. Have you heard of the Venomari Cult rising in the southern marshes of Kalma? Their Cobra Priests specialize in poisons and diseases, and they see the healers of Danab as a threat. They blame it on the religious differences, but if you ask me, the Venomari just want to lead their people out of the badlands and conquer the city-states of the coast. The only thing preventing them are the Sisters of Danab who can heal their poisons. With so many of them gathered here in Salmanda, you can bet that the Venomari will attempt something. The Almagesta won't do anything about it, though, for the old crone is too busy tending her garden and throwing fiests to the rich folk!" The elf got flustered. "I misspoke, sorry. You didn't hear that from me, okat?"

QM Note: Sorry, but you're thinking about the fragile-effect. Weakened halves the damage that the enemies make. I'll be autorolling the battle to get it over with Results of Round Three of the Cactoid Battle: >Heckz (Ice) vs. Cactoid - Spell/Special Damage/Spell/Shield (Razzmatazz of Ice - Cactoid: 694 health-(47x4=188 dmg)=506 health; Heckz: -1 ether) >Heckz (Ice) vs. Cactoid - Damage/Sleight of Hand/Great Spell/Sleight of Hand (Cactoid: 506 health-(59x4=236 dmg)=270 health; Heckz: -1 ether) >Periwinkle does nothing Heckz keeps on pummelling the enemy with his icy spells while Periwinkle pours sand out of her shoes. Results of Round Four of the Cactoid Battle: >Heckz (Ice) vs. Cactoid - Sleight of Hand/Damage/Sleight of Hand/Damage (Cactoid: confused; Heckz: -1 ether) >Heckz (Ice) vs. Cactoid - Great Spell/Damage/Sleight of Hand/Damage (Cactoid: 270 health-(59x4=236 dmg)=34 health; Heckz: -1 ether) >Periwinkle does nothing The cactoid still stands even though Heckz covers it with ice and curses. Periwinkle concentrates on her fingernails. Results of Round Five of the Cactoid Battle: >Heckz (Ice) vs. Cactoid - Damage/Sleight of Hand/Damage/Great Spell (Cactoid: 34 health-(59x4=236 dmg)=0 health; Heckz: -1 ether) >Heckz (Ice) vs. Cactoid >Periwinkle does nothing Periwinkle hides her yawn as Heckz shoots one last spell at the cactoid that finally brings it down. THE BATTLE IS VICTORIOUS! Heckz gains a third of a level while Periwinkle gains a fourth. The enemy drops the following items: Demeter Bomb (Deals 100 wood-elemental damage to all opponents when used.) Cactoid Flower (quest item) Party at the Scrubby Sands: John 'Heckz' Brutenhal, the Ghostbuster, the Super Sleuth and the School Inspector (Cutcobra) 32 year old male human Sorcerer Level 25 2/3 *Jinxed Spells at Double Cost* *Darkness Spells Cause Weakened* Power: 37 (25+12) (Spellpower: 47 (25+12+10)) Defense: 0 Health: 33/33 (5+24+4) Ether: 29/36 (5+24+1+5+1) Gold: 630 Equipment: Solemn Scythe (WP: 12, darkness-elemental scythe, 1/2 chance of causing sealed), Magician's Gloves (Spellpower +10; suitable for mages; handwear), Cloak of Blood Magic (+5 ether, attacks made with darkness magic cause weakened; suitable for mages, necromancers and chi monks; 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: Rawr (WP:9, dagger), 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), 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), Robe Of The Archmagi (SP:3, Max. Ether + 5, immune to sealed; bodywear), Opal (Ice), Garnet (Earth), Amethyst (Darkness), Aquamarine (Water), Ether Core, Elixir, Neutralizer, Phoenix Essence, 3x Mead, Smelling Salts, 2x Smoke Bomb, 2x Deadly Venom, 2x Lovely Perfume (Makes all opponents enamored with the user for 3 rounds when used; consumable), Heady Perfume (Makes non-humanoid monsters avoid attacking the party unless provoked. Effect lasts for one section of the day before wearing out.), 7 Bones, Bedroll, Shovel, Pickaxe, Magnifying Glass, Telescope, Magic Compass, Blue Jelly, Old Teddy (quest item), Abran Firefox (quest item) Periwinkle (NPC, controlled by Khorne) 19 years old female human Cleric Level 31 1/4 *Divert Attacks* *Immune to stunned, poisoned, bleeding, cursed, asleep, fast asleep, confused and hexed* Power: 32 (31+1) Health: 39/39 (9+30) Ether: 34/35 (5+30) Gold: 43 Equipment: Jaws' Mop (WP:1, double damage against aquatic enemies; broomstick), Narcissus Mirror (User has 1/2 chance to divert all attacks to the next ally in turn; accessory), Periwinkle Ribbon (Grants immunity to stunned, poisoned, bleeding, cursed, asleep, fast asleep, confused and hexed; suitable for Periwinkle only; headwear) Inventory: Remedy, Neutralizer, Tiger Balm "Like I said, I can pack drinks to go. But it is your choice, milord." After gulping down the mead, Boomingham returned to the Sanctity Street to look for Rex's wife Rhiannon. He found her talking to a red-garbed priestess in front of a temple. Evening had fallen. "'My love is in the hands of others'? What does that even mean, O Oracle?" "That is for you to find out." The priestess glanced at the approaching Boomingham. "Sooner than soon." Party at the Sanctity Street: Lord Lawrence Boomingham (Zepher) 48 years old human Paladin Level 33 3/4 *Immune to Darkness, Fire, Fragile, Stunned, Sleep, Weakened, and Blindness* *Encouraged* Power: 52 (33+14+4+1) Defense: 11 (7+4) Health: 47/56 (10+32+11+2+1) Ether: 33/33 Gold: 320 Equipment: Frozen Saber (WP: 14; light-, ice- and wind-elemental; inflicts stunned; great sword), Round Metal Shield (SP:7), Tome of Affluence (+10 Gold if equipped for the entirety of a battle; grants immunity to fragile, asleep, weakened, blindness, darkness and fire; accessory), Counterstrike Gloves (If the wearer is damaged by a Free Hit, they counter with strength equal to their level; handwear.), Scarlet Hood (SP:4, grants immunity to stunned) Inventory: Weapons: Lullaby Wand (WP:6, inflicts asleep), Silver Sword (WP: 18, Longsword), Scupperer (WP: 17; darkness-, fire- and earth-elemental; inflicts bleeding and poisoned by 10; great sword) Artifacts: Hood of Belthazar Bluehood (Power +4; Ether -6; headwear), Chains of the Pongcanis Chief (Hero Pierces SP if fighting from Front, Enemies ignore SP if hero fights from the back row, cannot be removed in battle), Amulet of Optimism (Adds the confused-effect to all attacks; accessory, suitable to Erdathcath only) Spell Items: Amethyst (Darkness), Scroll of Recklessness (Encouraged and Fragile; costs 5 Ether; 50/50 chance), Scroll of Blindness, Scroll of Weakening, Scroll of Fragility, Scroll of Sealing, Emerald Lamp of Summoning (0/3), “True Love Serenade” (restores 50 health to the rest of the party per round; costs 10 ether; Battle Song) Consumables: Potion, Health Core, x2 Remedy, Elixir, Phoenix Essence, x6 Mead, x3 Nostrum, Ambrosia, x2 Smelling Salts, Fire Brandy (Encouraged, Immune to Ice), Fireball Whiskey (Immunity to Fire One Battle OR 20 Fire Damage All Enemies), Hamantasch (Lucky, Blessed), Jinxy Juice, Feather of Flight (Allows the user to flee from the battle when used.), Hair of the Dog, x2 Grating Stone, Oculoid Miasma, Oculoid Fireworks, Saber Teeth, Mythril Shard Tools: Bedroll, Shovel, Pickaxe Location: Sanctity Street, Holy District Time: Evening of the First Day Influence: 1 Subquests:

I will, as soon as people stop nagging me about it. But yeah, this solution is probably the best I can find. You (or actually, we) will get 50 gold every time we roll a 4, but can only spend it on shops.

Results of Round Two of the Cactoid Battle: >Heckz (Darkness) vs. Cactoid - Spell/Great Spell (Cactoid: 1000 health-(59x2=118 dmg)=882 health+jinxed+weakened; Heckz: -2 ether) >Heckz (Ice) vs. Cactoid - Damage/Shield/Great Spell/Sleight of Hand (Razzmatazz of Ice - Cactoid: 882 health-(47x4=188 dmg)=694 health+stunned; Heckz: -1 ether) >Periwinkle heals herself - Shield (Miracle - Periwinkle: +33 health, -1 ether) Heckz blasts the cactoid with a few debilitating spells, while Periwinkle calls to the Mother to heal her. The cactoid still stands, although wobbling from the impact of Heckz's spells. Enemies: Cactoid *Wood-elemental attacks* *Immune to asleep, sealed and petrified* *Jinxed* *Weakened* *Stunned* Type: Plant Level: 10 Health: 694/1000 Special: Needle Shower- Causes a total of 100 wood-elemental damage regardless of row to the opposing party, divided among standing opponents as equally as possible. Drops: Demeter Bomb, Cactoid Flower (quest item) Party at the Scrubby Sands: John 'Heckz' Brutenhal, the Ghostbuster, the Super Sleuth and the School Inspector (Cutcobra) 32 year old male human Sorcerer Level 25 1/3 *Jinxed Spells at Double Cost* *Darkness Spells Cause Weakened* *Encouraged* *Hastened* *Lucky* Power: 37 (25+12) (Spellpower: 47 (25+12+10)) Defense: 0 Health: 33/33 (5+24+4) Ether: 34/36 (5+24+1+5+1) Gold: 630 Equipment: Solemn Scythe (WP: 12, darkness-elemental scythe, 1/2 chance of causing sealed), Magician's Gloves (Spellpower +10; suitable for mages; handwear), Cloak of Blood Magic (+5 ether, attacks made with darkness magic cause weakened; suitable for mages, necromancers and chi monks; 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: Rawr (WP:9, dagger), 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), 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), Robe Of The Archmagi (SP:3, Max. Ether + 5, immune to sealed; bodywear), Opal (Ice), Garnet (Earth), Amethyst (Darkness), Aquamarine (Water), Ether Core, Elixir, Neutralizer, Phoenix Essence, 3x Mead, Smelling Salts, 2x Smoke Bomb, 2x Deadly Venom, 2x Lovely Perfume (Makes all opponents enamored with the user for 3 rounds when used; consumable), Heady Perfume (Makes non-humanoid monsters avoid attacking the party unless provoked. Effect lasts for one section of the day before wearing out.), 7 Bones, Bedroll, Shovel, Pickaxe, Magnifying Glass, Telescope, Magic Compass, Blue Jelly, Old Teddy (quest item), Abran Firefox (quest item) Periwinkle (NPC, controlled by Khorne) 19 years old female human Cleric Level 31 *Divert Attacks* *Immune to stunned, poisoned, bleeding, cursed, asleep, fast asleep, confused and hexed* Power: 32 (31+1) Health: 39/39 (9+30) Ether: 34/35 (5+30) Gold: 43 Equipment: Jaws' Mop (WP:1, double damage against aquatic enemies; broomstick), Narcissus Mirror (User has 1/2 chance to divert all attacks to the next ally in turn; accessory), Periwinkle Ribbon (Grants immunity to stunned, poisoned, bleeding, cursed, asleep, fast asleep, confused and hexed; suitable for Periwinkle only; headwear) Inventory: Remedy, Neutralizer, Tiger Balm Location: Scrubby Sands, Luxor Dunes Time: Evening of the First Day Influence: 1 Subquests: Sarge saw a fervor burning in the Pharpharian man's eyes as he spoke to him. "Oh, I know that. But Nephri can wait phor a while longer, I just have to get at least one win with these cards..." Discovered a new subquest! Game of Life and Death Assignment: “This game called Decamon, it’s so addictive! I need to play just one more match, then I will stop phor good, honest!” ~Shariph Mimphish, a Pharpharian gambler Reward: “I will bet my priced Decamodiphier in the match.” "That will be 20 gold, milord. Will you drink it here or do you want me to pack it for you to be enjoyed later? If you are travellers here, you should at least see the Menagerie at Luxor Dunes that is run by the local tycoon, Marmaduc. He has all sorts of fantastic creatures locked up in there, although lately there have been some activists freeing them into the wild, saying animals do not belong into cages. Oh, and the Floral Square by the Palace District is a sight to behold, as well. A band plays there every evening. Just steer away from the Slums, a man dressed as fancy as you are will stick out like a sore thumb over there." Party at the Lodestar Inn: Eric (Khorne) *Party Second-in-Command* 30 year old norseman Raider Level 27 *Natural Respite* *Evasion* *Immune to Fragile, Weakened, Asleep, Water and Earth* Power: 51 (27+22+2) Defense: 5 Health: 50/50 (8+7+26+4+5) Gold: 223 Equipment: Godricsleif (WP: 22; Ice-, Lightning-, Darkness-elemental; greatsword), Pugilist's Gloves (Power +2, protects from Weakened; handwear), Heavy Armor (SP:5, protects from Fragile; bodywear), Boots of Evasion (Wearer takes half damage in front row + Immunity to Water, Earth and Asleep; footwear) Inventory: Weapons: Conspirator (WP:18, causes Blinded; longsword), 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) Spell Items: Garnet (Earth) Consumables: Potion, 10 Grand Potions, Health Core, 3 Elixirs, 3 Remedies, Neutralizer, 7 Meads, 6 Smelling Salts, 3 Nostrum, 5 Mulled Wine, Ambrosia, Dragon Scale, Venom, Deadly Venom, 2 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.), Fire Bomb, Lightning Bomb, Aeolus Bomb, Feather of Lithe (Makes the user nimble for three rounds, giving them a 1/3 chance to completely avoid rolls of COUNTER and DAMAGE and Free Hits.), 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.), Bone Lord Lawrence Boomingham (Zepher) 48 years old human Paladin Level 33 3/4 *Immune to Darkness, Fire, Fragile, Stunned, Sleep, Weakened, and Blindness* Power: 52 (33+14+4+1) Defense: 11 (7+4) Health: 47/56 (10+32+11+2+1) Ether: 33/33 Gold: 320 Equipment: Frozen Saber (WP: 14; light-, ice- and wind-elemental; inflicts stunned; great sword), Round Metal Shield (SP:7), Tome of Affluence (+10 Gold if equipped for the entirety of a battle; grants immunity to fragile, asleep, weakened, blindness, darkness and fire; accessory), Counterstrike Gloves (If the wearer is damaged by a Free Hit, they counter with strength equal to their level; handwear.), Scarlet Hood (SP:4, grants immunity to stunned) Inventory: Weapons: Lullaby Wand (WP:6, inflicts asleep), Silver Sword (WP: 18, Longsword), Scupperer (WP: 17; darkness-, fire- and earth-elemental; inflicts bleeding and poisoned by 10; great sword) Artifacts: Hood of Belthazar Bluehood (Power +4; Ether -6; headwear), Chains of the Pongcanis Chief (Hero Pierces SP if fighting from Front, Enemies ignore SP if hero fights from the back row, cannot be removed in battle), Amulet of Optimism (Adds the confused-effect to all attacks; accessory, suitable to Erdathcath only) Spell Items: Amethyst (Darkness), Scroll of Recklessness (Encouraged and Fragile; costs 5 Ether; 50/50 chance), Scroll of Blindness, Scroll of Weakening, Scroll of Fragility, Scroll of Sealing, Emerald Lamp of Summoning (0/3), “True Love Serenade” (restores 50 health to the rest of the party per round; costs 10 ether; Battle Song) Consumables: Potion, Health Core, x2 Remedy, Elixir, Phoenix Essence, x7 Mead, x3 Nostrum, Ambrosia, x2 Smelling Salts, Fire Brandy (Encouraged, Immune to Ice), Fireball Whiskey (Immunity to Fire One Battle OR 20 Fire Damage All Enemies), Hamantasch (Lucky, Blessed), Jinxy Juice, Feather of Flight (Allows the user to flee from the battle when used.), Hair of the Dog, x2 Grating Stone, Oculoid Miasma, Oculoid Fireworks, Saber Teeth, Mythril Shard Tools: Bedroll, Shovel, Pickaxe Sgt. Jon McEncy (Pyrovisionary) *Party Leader* 54 year old male human Black Knight Level 23 *Immune to Blinded and Stunned* *Poisonous Defense* *Permanently Hastened* Power: 48 (23+21+2+2) Defense: 20 (16+4) Health: 47/47 (7+22+9+3+3+3) Gold: 400 Equipment: Demonic Scissors (WP:21, dual strike, Light and Darkness elemental, Hollow [Potion], dagger), Serpenthead Shield (SP:16, causes poisoned by 2-effect to anyone physically attacking the user, shield), Pegleg of Hastening (Permanent Hastened effect to the user; Immune to Blinded, suitable to Sarge only; footwear), Black Knight's Armour (SP:4, protects from stunned-effect; suitable for black knights; bodywear), Swift boots (Changes HIDE into STEAL & HIDE, allowing the wearer to steal gold equal to the target’s level if it carries gold in addition to hiding) Inventory: Weapons Wooden Spear (WP:4, wood-elemental spear) Artifacts Monkey Armor (SP:4, immune to earth and bound; suitable to knights, beast warriors, dragoons, skirmishers and winged warriors; bodywear), Ranger’s Quiver (WP +1 to bows and crossbows, suitable for rangers, beast warriors, infiltrators and winged warriors; backwear), Sterope’s Headdress (Grants the ability to spend a turn to fly out of a battle and return to it later if it is still going; the wearer cannot affect the battle in any way when they are away from it; suitable to winged warriors only; headwear) Spell Items: Garnet (Earth), “True Love Serenade” (restores 50 health to the rest of the party per round; costs 10 ether; Battle Song) Consumables: 3 Potions, 2 Grand potions, Health Core, 4 Remedies, 2 Phoenix Essences, 4 Venoms, Deadly Venom, 3 Smoke Bombs, Sleep Bomb, Gold Ring (worth 15 gold; can be given to someone to make them enamored with the giver), 2 Bones, 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.) Tools: Bedroll, Shovel, Pickaxe, Telescope, Magic Compass, Magnifying Glass, Business Card

I didn't think about it when I first created the item, but it would be fitting that if one carrier of the Soul Link Chain is knocked out, the other one is as well. So I'd say yes. ... And now somebody will quote a post about me saying "no" to this same question.

I do not want to make the Alchemist's roll too complicated, but I understand how it currently could still be abused. So I'll use UMDM's suggestion and have CHRYSOPOEIA create a treasure item, instead. That way nobody should have issues with the skill anymore.

~A new quest has been posted on the Quest Board (#134 by Endgame)!~

"Ooh, a shop! Can we take a peek inside, Tesni?" Ellaria said, pointing at Meladonna's Surplus.

The genie smith glanced up from the anvil. "Thou are not worthy of my services. I, Djimini, only serve locals and those travellers who have proven their worth to the Dream Forge. Thy accomplishments are still insufficient." The genie returned to his work, paying no more attention to Sarge. The party needs 3 influence to get served at Djimini's smithy. Ignoring the fancy-talking genie, Eric stepped into the Lodestar Inn. A Sun Elf was tending the bar, serving a werelioness. A black knight was playing cards against a Pharpharian. "Greetings, viking! Are you here to drink or rest? We rent beds for 50 gold, with a complimentary drink to go with it." Drink List at the Lodestar Inn: Mead (Causes the encouraged-effect, doubling the target's attack power for the duration of one battle.) Costs 20 gold. Smelling Salts (Causes the hastened-effect, allowing the target to act twice in one round for the duration of one battle.) Costs 30 gold. Nostrum (Causes the lucky-effect, allowing the target to roll the battle die twice and get the better result of the two for the duration of one battle.) Costs 40 gold. Soma (Causes the blessed-effect, allowing the target to recover a tenth of their maximum health at the end of each round for the duration of one battle.) Costs 50 gold. Mulled Wine (Causes the inspired-effect, doubling the target's current and maximum health for the duration of one battle.) Costs 60 gold. "Phor phucks sake, phoiled again!" "That'sh whazz you ghet forr messhing with the bhig boysh, tourisht", the drunken knight slurred. Sometime later in the Luxor Dunes... "Oh, so now you want to cooperate?" Results of Round One of the Cactoid Battle: >Periwinkle does nothing >Heckz uses Smelling Salts - (Heckz: hastened) >Heckz uses Nostrum - (Heckz: lucky) Cactoid - Free Hit on Periwinkle (Peri: 39-(10/2=5 dmg)=34 health) Periwinkle prepares to take the cactoid's attack while Heckz corks a few drinks. The plant monster does not seem particularly threatening at this point. Enemies: Cactoid *Wood-elemental attacks* *Immune to asleep, sealed and petrified* Type: Plant Level: 10 Health: 1000/1000 Special: Needle Shower- Causes a total of 100 wood-elemental damage regardless of row to the opposing party, divided among standing opponents as equally as possible. Drops: Demeter Bomb, Cactoid Flower (quest item) Party at the Scrubby Sands: John 'Heckz' Brutenhal, the Ghostbuster, the Super Sleuth and the School Inspector (Cutcobra) 32 year old male human Sorcerer Level 25 1/3 *Jinxed Spells at Double Cost* *Darkness Spells Cause Weakened* *Encouraged* *Hastened* *Lucky* Power: 37 (25+12) (Spellpower: 47 (25+12+10)) Defense: 0 Health: 33/33 (5+24+4) Ether: 36/36 (5+24+1+5+1) Gold: 630 Equipment: Solemn Scythe (WP: 12, darkness-elemental scythe, 1/2 chance of causing sealed), Magician's Gloves (Spellpower +10; suitable for mages; handwear), Cloak of Blood Magic (+5 ether, attacks made with darkness magic cause weakened; suitable for mages, necromancers and chi monks; 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: Rawr (WP:9, dagger), 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), 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), Robe Of The Archmagi (SP:3, Max. Ether + 5, immune to sealed; bodywear), Opal (Ice), Garnet (Earth), Amethyst (Darkness), Aquamarine (Water), Ether Core, Elixir, Neutralizer, Phoenix Essence, 3x Mead, Smelling Salts, 2x Smoke Bomb, 2x Deadly Venom, 2x Lovely Perfume (Makes all opponents enamored with the user for 3 rounds when used; consumable), Heady Perfume (Makes non-humanoid monsters avoid attacking the party unless provoked. Effect lasts for one section of the day before wearing out.), 7 Bones, Bedroll, Shovel, Pickaxe, Magnifying Glass, Telescope, Magic Compass, Blue Jelly, Old Teddy (quest item), Abran Firefox (quest item) Periwinkle (NPC, controlled by Khorne) 19 years old female human Cleric Level 31 *Divert Attacks* *Immune to stunned, poisoned, bleeding, cursed, asleep, fast asleep, confused and hexed* Power: 32 (31+1) Health: 34/39 (9+30) Ether: 35/35 (5+30) Gold: 43 Equipment: Jaws' Mop (WP:1, double damage against aquatic enemies; broomstick), Narcissus Mirror (User has 1/2 chance to divert all attacks to the next ally in turn; accessory), Periwinkle Ribbon (Grants immunity to stunned, poisoned, bleeding, cursed, asleep, fast asleep, confused and hexed; suitable for Periwinkle only; headwear) Inventory: Remedy, Neutralizer, Tiger Balm Location: Scrubby Sands, Luxor Dunes Time: Evening of the First Day Influence: 1 Subquests:

Like others said, enemies do not use weapons like heroes do, they only attack with the power of their level. I've created some "ranged" enemies myself, and they attack from the back row with full power (to all enemies despite where they are standing). But different QMs can use different strategies - the most important part is to spell it out to the players what kind of strategy the enemy is using. Just remove the wind-element from the table and do the math again. A zero nullifies a 2x multiplier, ergo the attack causes 1x damage. I'll add it to the FAQ soon, nevertheless.

"Potions is my game nowadays, Tesni, so I could use some more arsenal to use. So please, deal them out." Ellaria turned to the dwarves. "So this is Krumpknob, then?"