Zepher

Alexis pokes her head outside, and sees that while the clouds have started to recede a little the wind has gotten shockingly cold and the sky remains, patchy. A ray of light lands on her face and she feels a little warmer. The heroes have just settled down when suddenly there is the sound of shattering glass and smoke fills the tavern. People cough and cry out... but when it disappears, no one has fled, like is usually the custom, but the heroes have instead been joined by a hoard of unfamiliar faces. The pale female standing on the table glances around. "Heroes," she says cooly. Then she takes hold of Aventine's hand, and from her back wings burst forth. She grabs hold of the Mopag to her left as well, and she flutters out swiftly through the broken window directly above her. "Evel," she calls out to someone, assumedly, "take care of them. Slow them down. The rest of you, with me." The Orc and werewolf toss the Viking and Armored Women through the window, and then the werewolf helps the Orc up as well. He turns swiftly to the heroes. "She left me behind because I'm the most challenging. See, I was part of the Wolfgang, but they were a little small minded for me, so I-" he stops himself. "Ah, what are we talking for?" He howls, and the door that Alexis is standing next to flies open, letting in three dire wolves! Pursuit is impossible until the heroes free themselves! The Enemies Evel McGuffin the Disowned Werewolf Level 50 Beast Humanoid *Immune to Darkness and Instant Kill* Health: 365/365 Special: Ecliptic Slash – Causes 24 darkness-elemental damage to the target regardless of row, along with the afraid- and cursed-effects. Drops: 100 Gold Direwolf A Level 5 Beast Health: 25/25 Special I: Howl – Summons another Direwolf to join the battle. If there are three Direwolves in battle, Blood Fang is used instead. Special II: Blood Fang – Transfers 6 health from the target to self. Used instead of Howl if there are three Direwolves in battle. Passive Special I: Pride of the Pack - If the dire wolf is killed by an AoE attack, a new dire wolf takes its place. Drops: Fang Dagger (WP: 4) Direwolf B Level 5 Beast Health: 25/25 Special I: Howl – Summons another Direwolf to join the battle. If there are three Direwolves in battle, Blood Fang is used instead. Special II: Blood Fang – Transfers 6 health from the target to self. Used instead of Howl if there are three Direwolves in battle. Passive Special I: Pride of the Pack - If the dire wolf is killed by an AoE attack, a new dire wolf takes its place. Drops: Fang Dagger (WP: 4) Direwolf C Level 5 Beast Health: 25/25 Special I: Howl – Summons another Direwolf to join the battle. If there are three Direwolves in battle, Blood Fang is used instead. Special II: Blood Fang – Transfers 6 health from the target to self. Used instead of Howl if there are three Direwolves in battle. Passive Special I: Pride of the Pack - If the dire wolf is killed by an AoE attack, a new dire wolf takes its place. Drops: Fang Dagger (WP: 4) The Heroes Purpearl Berthadhiell, the Carnival Crusader (Purpearljellyblob) *Party Leader* 180 Years Old Female Elven Mage *Evasive* *Blessed* Level 10.5 Power: 13 (Level 10 + WP 3) Health: 18/18 (Base 5 + 9 Levels + 4 Bonus) Ether: 16/16 (Base 5 + 9 Levels + 2 Bonus) Gold: 78 (Owes Karie 25 gold) Equipment: Crimson Arcanon (Wand WP:3), Tunic of Elven Acrobat (+4 HP, Provides Evasion Effect with 1/3 chance to completely avoid rolls of COUNTER, DAMAGE and Free Hits, torso wear), Blood Oath Medallion (Accessory, Blessed) Inventory: Thorny Rose (WP: 17,wood-elemental, deals the poisoned by 3 effect, mace), Heavy Armour (SP: 5, immune to fragile, suitable for suitable for barbarians, knights, dragoons, skirmishers and regulators), Bedroll, Potion (x3), Grand Tonic (x2), Raw Sushi (Consumable, Restores 5 Health and 5 Ether), Tasty Pretzel (x2) (1/3 chance each of granting lucky, hastened and encouraged-effects upon consumption), Mead, Ambrosia, Bone, Tinyshroom, Level Up Mushroom, Venom (x2), Crocodile Handbag (Max Ether +2; accessory) Gemstones: Ruby (Fire), Topaz (Lightning), Amethyst (Darkness), Opal, Diamond, Garnet, Sapphire, Emerald, Aquamarine Scrolls: Scroll of Sleep, Scroll of Sealing, Scroll of Blindness, Scroll of Weakening, Scroll of Fragile, Scroll of Confusion, Magical Staff (WP: 15; Water-, Darkness-elemental; staff) Alexis Fenral, Orc-kin (Masked Builder) *Immune to Blinded* *Counterstriking* *Blessed* 22 year old female elven Harlot Level 44.4 Power Bonus: 0 Defense: 0 Health: 72/72 Gold: 1458 GP: 9 Equipment: Cat-o'-Nine-Tails (WP: 20, damage divided between all enemies, Suitable For Rouges), Ring of Sight (protects fromblinded), Counterstrike Gloves, Blood Oath Medallion (Accessory, Blessed) Inventory: Steel fan (WP:20, ice-, lightning-, and darkness-elemental), Death's Whip (WP:11, on successful hits there is a 1/6 chance to cause double damage), Healing Staff (WP: 5; healing effect), Staff of Ennon (WP: 5, light-elemental, Restores 2 ether on a roll of 2, 3, or 4; staff), Electro Gear (Adds lightning-element to physical attacks and protects from lightning-elemental damage, accessory), Smelly Hide (Suitable for barbarians and beast warriors, half damage from beasts and humanoids on Damage, bodywear), Aquamarine (Water), Diamond (Light), Sapphire (Wind), Topaz (lightning), Fifty Shades of Bley, Bedroll, Magic Compass, Magnifying Glass, Remedy, 2 Somas, 8 Water Bombs, 2x Lightning Bomb, 2x Fire Bomb, 3 Dirt Bombs, Smoke Bomb, 4x Venom, 2x Deadly Venom, Health Core, 4x Potion, Grand Potion, 9 Meads, 2 Smelling Salts, 9 Remedies, 7 Grand Potions, Skeleton Decoy, 8x Bone, Deadly Venom, 2 Kraken Fangs (grants hastened- and reinforced-effects when consumed), Silver Ore (worth 60 gold), Demon Repellant (Makes the user impervious to direct attacks from demons during one battle. Consumable), Winged Sandals (artifact; footwear; protects from bound and slowed effects), 2xTitan Heart (Grants encouraged- and inspired-effects when consumed), Mulled Wine, 2 Grating Stones, Lieutenant's Helmet (SP:3, protects from fragile), Crimson Venom (Causes a weapon to deal the poisoned by 7 and cursed effects for the duration of one battle), Medal of Glory (Artefact/Accessory - Mark of true talent that allows the wearer to gain triple experience from battles) XX Level 32 Cannoneer/Alchemist *Blessed* *Encouraged* *Inspired* Health: 96/96 Defense: 0 Gold: 370 Equipment: XX Hand Cannon (WP: 12, Ignores SP), XX Ammo Belts (As an Alchemist, XX can only receive rolls ending in "Bomb", excluding Bravado Brew and Explosion, as a Cannonner Bomb XX and Bomb XXX are added to possible creations), Cannoneer's Sashes (The damage output of bombs consumed are added to the WP of the Cannoneer's weapon before damage calculation) Inventory: Dangerous Dagger (WP: 20, Fire-Elemental), Phoenix Essence, Mead x2, Ruby, Military Grade Fire Bomb x6, Bomb XX (Deals 30 Damage to all foes and 10 to all allies, ignoring row/SP) x2, Bomb XXX (Causes 250 damage to all enemies and 50 to all allies), Smoke Bomb Nerwen Calmcacil (played by Chromeknight) 263 year old female Elven Paladin *Immune to Fragile* *Blessed* Level 28 Power bonus: 0 Defense: 16 Health: 47/47 Ether: 29/33 Gold: 0 Equipment: Sword of the Warrior of the Light (WP: 14, Light Elemental, Meditate becomes hits, longsword), Orc Barbed Shield (SP: 11), Heavy Armor (SP:5, Immune to Fragile, bodywear), Sylvania's Cowl (Permits Animal Talk, Headwear), Blood Oath Medallion (Accessory, Blessed) Inventory: Mourning Star (WP: 10; Fire-elemental; inflicts Fragile-effect; mace), Bent Crowbar (WP: 8; 3x damage to Mechanic enemies; hammer), Axe of the Minotaur Champion (WP: 30; user is Slowed and Immune to Hastened; cannot be equipped at the same time as a shield; axe), Shield of the Red Lizard (SP: 2, Immune to Blind), Helm of the Lord of Light (Headwear, Immunity to Light and Jinxed, Suitable for Knights), Seal of the Warrior Priestess (At the beginning of the battle the user has a 1/6 chance to be Transcended, a 1/6 chance to be Blessed, and a 1/6 chance to be Inspired, Accessory, Suitable for Paladins), • Medal of Valor (Double experience from battles, accessory), Robe of the Archmagi (SP:3; Max Ether +5; Immune to Sealed; bodywear), White Cloak (Max HP +3; backwear) • Topaz • No Scrolls • Phoenix Essence, Grand Tonics (3), Potions (4), Elixirs (3), Remedies (6), Tiger Balm, Neutralizer, Essence of Sorrow (50% assassination chance on non-immune target), Venom (2), Fire Bombs (2), Ice Bombs (2), Lightning Bombs (2), Water Bombs (2), Dirt Bombs (2), Air Bombs (2), Bone, Milk (restores 15 HP and 15 Ether), Carrot (restores 5 HP, 10 to rabbits), Ether Core, Grand potion, Ambrosia (3) • Shovel, Bedroll, Magnifying Glass Matthias the Carnival Crusader (nstickney) Level 10 Ranger *Immune to Bound, Slowed* *Blessed* *Encouraged* Power Bonus: 1 Defense: 0 Health: 15/15 Gold: 43 Equipment: Fireball Extraordinaire (Hand Cannon, WP:5, also hits enemies listed above and below target, user is Slowed), Winged Sandals (Footwear, protects from Bound and Slowed effects), Blood Oath Medallion (Accessory, Blessed) Inventory: Steel Cutlass (Sword, WP:5, suitable for Knights or Rogues), Sword of the Red Lizard (Longsword, WP:10, fire-elemental), Grimmau's Clothespin (Headwear, prevents the first negative effect inflicted on the wearer during a battle), Grand Potion, Grating Stone, 2x Mead, Phoenix Essence, Remedy, Smelling Salts, Smoke Bomb, Bedroll, Dapper Hat (wearer has a 1/6 chance of being Encouraged at the start of any battle), Quickdraw Quiver (permanent hastened-effect, suitable to Rangers), Russel Ruffers & Sir Pigley Level 16.5 Rogue *Hastened* *Blessed* *Encouraged* Power: 42 Health: 30/30 Defense: 4 Gold: 266 Equipment: Crabspirator (WP: 16, deals the Blinded effect, darkness elemental, longsword), Crab Shell Armor (Body Wear, +4 Max Health, 4 SP), Pigley (+4 Power, +4 Max Health, Hastened, Not an Artifact), Blood Oath Medallion (Accessory, Blessed) Inventory: Rebel's Sword (Longsword, WP: 11)

"It is," he says, and with that, he closes his beak tightly once more. "Just out on patrol - the Watch just kind of wanders the streets of Eubric, looking for trouble, unless we get a request. It's not the best system, but hey, I've only been around for a few weeks, so what do I know?" "You can't be too surprised that the Watch doesn't love Heroica. After all, Heroica is a group of people for hire - it's hard to trust a group like that. The people of the city respect heroes as if they are an authority, for the most part, but that doesn't mean they are. They do the Watch's job sometimes, and they can do it poorly." Crowley shrugs. "But like I said, I owe them my life, so I'm a fan." OoC: I've always imagined it as EcksEcks! But I don't know if we've ever clarified before, so good question. "I don't just buy anyone a drink," jokes Russel as he orders a Mulled Wine for Purpearl. "I have heard from Everyman that XX is a man who always finishes the job, and who never breaks his contract. That is a good man to have on your side. I have heard likewise of Russel and Pigley - though I believe they do it more from pride than honor." The clouds outside continue to gather, though it has yet to actually storm, and strange beams of sunlight break through gaps in the clouds.

Boomingham repeats.

Oh, thank you JimBee! Didn't realize - it is rather peculiar, but thank you! So yes, Chrome, it will be run the way it says in the rules. And that's Pie's end of things, so I'll let him weigh in!

I'd love to... but I also want to get on a Pie Quest, and revisit WBD as a QM, and would also love to go on Endgame's finale to at least rediscover an old foe... AND I want to put Strivvi at peace too, if I ever get done murdering this pile of bones. So it sort of depends when. I'm trying to plan ahead less, and let fate decide both who I host and where Boomingham goes.

"Here you are, my young friend!" says the Bar Tender, passing Matthias a mead. XX, meanwhile, orders a Mulled Wine, having finished his mead with surprising speed. The Watchman seems a little bothered to have been interrupted, but his smiles at the mention of Thistlethorp. "We were actually inducted into the the Watch the very same day! He's a bit of a blundering fool, truth be told, but so are quite a few of the members of the Watch, and not all of them have the heart of gold he has. Don't tell them I said that." He blushes. "I'd much have rathered joined the Syndicate, but Masson is a little more selective, and I don't know if I would have made the cut. Private Morrison, by the way." "We used to do interesting things," counters the garbed man. "When Antony told me to join the Syndicate was still taking down Wolfgang thugs... now we're under the Watch's name and have to do whatever damn jobs the Watch thinks up for us... though Masson still does have a say. I nearly didn't make the cut myself - almost was outnumbered by bugs, eaten alive, but some heroes came to help me out. If it's anything that Masson's better at than the rest of the Watch, it's his view on heroes - he's got quite a soft spot for some of them. I'm Crowley," he says to Matthias. OoC: I'd assume that means that yes, she has 8 grand potions, I've only copied stats of other people's! So I'll fix that. And I'd imagine that the it would not be affected by lucky/jinxed - shield skills never are (assassinations, for example, remain a 1/6 chance even when lucky, and I know that's how Sandy would rule for the Alchemist skill as well). It will indeed be affected by lucky/jinxed! Pigley also, as noted, does not count as an artifact for obvious reasons in that he is a living creature. It's is like your horse from 88, but it is much easier to list him where he is than below. Nerwen walks around the Bar now, stopping at numerous tables before finally arriving at the bar. She exchanges some weapons with Purpearl before gusting by Alexis and healing her covertly, and finally she settles with Matthias, XX, Russel and their new friends at the bar. "I've got it handled, thank you, m'lady! I can't buy you a Phoenix Essence here, yet, but tell me if something looks good! I've bought one drink for a beautiful hero, might as well raise it to two! Raise my odds and what not." "Yeah, I'll let you know," he grumbles. "I can't speak for Were-Ravens everywhere, but I'm personally a professional problem solver. Sometimes, people bring me cases, and sometimes, I find them myself to keep myself occupied. I'm currently doing some work on the local cemetery. They can't keep their patrons in the ground - and I don't mean that in the undead sense. Some of the people buried there have been dug up recently, and taken out of the cemetery. I'm trying to figure out why." "You seem like a prudent elf. I will bear that in mind. My... adversary does indeed have many spies and many allies scattered across the island, and I have no doubt he will hire more for this specific event. But, as you can tell, I too have many friends, and I too will take the measures required to keep myself safe."

"I don't recall saying I like your outfit," clacks Everstien. "I am also on business, actually." And with that, he stops talking, leaving the Alexis to question entirely if he wishes to discuss the matter further or be left alone. He is a hard Were-Raven to read. Matthias glances around the bar. Other than the Watchman, Bar Tender, garbed man, Everstien, and those he entered with, there are no people in the bar. Matthias also notices, suddenly, that Everyman has entirely and totally abandoned the group - apparently somewhere between the docks and the Albatross, or the Hovels and the docks, or at least at some point, he had slipped down a back alley very quietly without anyone noticing. There are two doors - one that they entered through which led to the front desk and entrance way, and one opposite that which presumedly led up the stairs to the rooms. There are also a few windows situated on what would be the second story. They allow in the darkening sunlight. The Watchman and the garbed man are talking merrily as Matthais approaches, and so it seems unlikely to Matthias that the man in garb is part of a group that would assault a different member of the watch, though certainly not impossible. "...had me squashing bugs," he says with a laugh. The Watchman laughs right along with him. The two friends turn to watch Matthias' approach. Matthias asks for some strange drink from the bar tender. "I'm afraid not," says the Bar Tender courteously. "Here's what we've got." Tiger Balm - Grants immunity to all effects (positive and negative) for one battle. Costs 100 gold. Mead - Causes the encouraged-effect, doubling the target's attack power for the duration of one battle. Costs 20 gold. Mulled Wine - Causes the inspired-effect, doubling the target's current and maximum health for the duration of one battle. Costs 60 gold. Ambrosia - Causes the reinforced-effect, double the target's defense for the duration of one battle. Costs 70 gold. "Russel Ruffers never turns down a drink, though I've got enough gold to pay for myself!" the small crab proclaims, buying a Mead. "I'm trying to watch my weight," Pigley laments. XX also gravitates towards the bar, and orders a mead for himself as well. OoC: Another thing worth noting - at bars on Zepher Quests you must drink your drink immediately! You will not be allowed to buy one for taking later. The door remains motionless. It is slightly before noon... it seems unlikely that many people will enter a bar at this time, unless the rain drives them to it. "I was afraid earlier I was not being clear enough, and you have proven me right. Lord Chauncey was my fellow apprentice, not an apprentice of mine. We studied under the same teacher." He allows something that sort of resembles a smile. "Language is such a fickle beast. As for the room, it is most generous, but I am certain the storm will pass and the Captain will allow us to disembark. If it truly becomes late, perhaps we will prepare to spend the night, but I hope very gravely that does not become the case."

I'm glad you like 102, JimBee! I'll explain my rationale for the links at the end of the quest, but I'm happy they're being used! And just think about it this way, Masked - you've already gained 3 more experience than you would have if you'd not been selected for the quest and were still bumming around the Hall.

The Were-Raven shrieks a heart wrenching shriek, and it takes Alexis a few seconds to recognize it as a laugh. Even so, it sends shivers down her spine, and as the Were-Raven's blood shot eyes turn on her she notices that they rarely if ever blink, and she feels even more unease. "I am Dr. Everstien. Not some lackey to some low level criminal. Besides, I hear that J. Smith only hires Crowkins, and I am quite clearly a Were-Raven," he cackles. "You can tell us apart easily - Crowkins have had the great shame of having their wings removed, Were-Ravens have not. Were-Ravens are trustworthy and cunning. Crowkins are neither." He looks her up and down. "You do not disguise yourself very much, do you? You are a Harlot, and since you are a well armed Harlot I will assume you come from Heroica Hall. I have worked with your kind before. I find that you rarely leave your own bar unless it is for a mission, as the drinks are free there and the rest of Olegia is not so generous. What brings you to the Albatross?"

Go with Kinto! The next one will have Ji Pei Rep, I believe! I don't know if I've offered it before. Whereas I know I've offered Shadeaux rep at least three times over at this point. Also, Purpearl/Nerwen, I realized I didn't exchange your gems/scrolls, but I have to dash out the door right now, so I will remedy when I get home. I'm very sorry. Is the a little heart in the ruins of Tinkerman. Sandy, you make me laugh sometimes - and if it's not, and I'm just seeing it there because I want it to be there, then I make me laugh sometimes. :grin:

"Very well. We will get going then. I also hear that you heroes use something called a Party Leader. I believe that I would do best deputizing my fellow mage." The Heroes Purpearl Berthadhiell, the Carnival Crusader (Purpearljellyblob) *Party Leader* 180 Years Old Female Elven Mage *Evasive* *Blessed* Level 10.5 Power: 13 (Level 10 + WP 3) Health: 11/18 (Base 5 + 9 Levels + 4 Bonus) Ether: 16/16 (Base 5 + 9 Levels + 2 Bonus) Gold: 78 (Owes Karie 25 gold) Equipment: Crimson Arcanon (Wand WP:3), Tunic of Elven Acrobat (+4 HP, Provides Evasion Effect with 1/3 chance to completely avoid rolls of COUNTER, DAMAGE and Free Hits, torso wear), Blood Oath Medallion (Accessory, Blessed) Inventory: Thorny Rose (WP: 17,wood-elemental, deals the poisoned by 3 effect, mace), Heavy Armour (SP: 5, immune to fragile, suitable for suitable for barbarians, knights, dragoons, skirmishers and regulators), Bedroll, Potion (x3), Grand Tonic (x2), Raw Sushi (Consumable, Restores 5 Health and 5 Ether), Tasty Pretzel (x2) (1/3 chance each of granting lucky, hastened and encouraged-effects upon consumption), Mead, Ambrosia, Bone, Tinyshroom, Level Up Mushroom, Venom (x2), Crocodile Handbag (Max Ether +2; accessory) Gemstones: Ruby (Fire), Topaz (Lightning), Amethyst (Darkness), Opal, Topaz, Diamond, Garnet, Sapphire, Emerald, Aquamarine Scrolls: Scroll of Sleep, Scroll of Sealing, Scroll of Blindness, Scroll of Weakening, Scroll of Fragile, Scroll of Confusion Alexis Fenral, Orc-kin (Masked Builder) *Immune to Blinded* *Counterstriking* *Blessed* 22 year old female elven Harlot Level 44.4 Power Bonus: 0 Defense: 0 Health: 42/72 Gold: 1458 GP: 9 Equipment: Cat-o'-Nine-Tails (WP: 20, damage divided between all enemies, Suitable For Rouges), Ring of Sight (protects fromblinded), Counterstrike Gloves, Blood Oath Medallion (Accessory, Blessed) Inventory: Steel fan (WP:20, ice-, lightning-, and darkness-elemental), Death's Whip (WP:11, on successful hits there is a 1/6 chance to cause double damage), Healing Staff (WP: 5; healing effect), Staff of Ennon (WP: 5, light-elemental, Restores 2 ether on a roll of 2, 3, or 4; staff), Electro Gear (Adds lightning-element to physical attacks and protects from lightning-elemental damage, accessory), Smelly Hide (Suitable for barbarians and beast warriors, half damage from beasts and humanoids on Damage, bodywear), Aquamarine (Water), Diamond (Light), Sapphire (Wind), Topaz (lightning), Fifty Shades of Bley, Bedroll, Magic Compass, Magnifying Glass, Remedy, 2 Somas, 8 Water Bombs, 2x Lightning Bomb, 2x Fire Bomb, 3 Dirt Bombs, Smoke Bomb, 4x Venom, 2x Deadly Venom, Health Core, 4x Potion, Grand Potion, 9 Meads, 2 Smelling Salts, 9 Remedies, 7 Grand Potions, Skeleton Decoy, 8x Bone, Deadly Venom, 2 Kraken Fangs (grants hastened- and reinforced-effects when consumed), Silver Ore (worth 60 gold), Demon Repellant (Makes the user impervious to direct attacks from demons during one battle. Consumable), Winged Sandals (artifact; footwear; protects from bound and slowed effects), 2xTitan Heart (Grants encouraged- and inspired-effects when consumed), Mulled Wine, 2 Grating Stones, Lieutenant's Helmet (SP:3, protects from fragile), Crimson Venom (Causes a weapon to deal the poisoned by 7 and cursed effects for the duration of one battle), Medal of Glory (Artefact/Accessory - Mark of true talent that allows the wearer to gain triple experience from battles) XX Level 32 Cannoneer/Alchemist *Blessed* Health: 48/48 Defense: 0 Gold: 450 Equipment: XX Hand Cannon (WP: 12, Ignores SP), XX Ammo Belts (As an Alchemist, XX can only receive rolls ending in "Bomb", excluding Bravado Brew and Explosion, as a Cannonner Bomb XX and Bomb XXX are added to possible creations), Cannoneer's Sashes (The damage output of bombs consumed are added to the WP of the Cannoneer's weapon before damage calculation) Inventory: Dangerous Dagger (WP: 20, Fire-Elemental), Phoenix Essence, Mead x2, Ruby, Military Grade Fire Bomb x6, Bomb XX (Deals 30 Damage to all foes and 10 to all allies, ignoring row/SP) x2, Bomb XXX (Causes 250 damage to all enemies and 50 to all allies), Smoke Bomb Nerwen Calmcacil (played by Chromeknight) 263 year old female Elven Paladin *Immune to Fragile* *Blessed* Level 28 Power bonus: 0 Defense: 16 Health: 47/47 Ether: 32/33 Gold: 0 Equipment: Sword of the Warrior of the Light (WP: 14, Light Elemental, Meditate becomes hits, longsword), Orc Barbed Shield (SP: 11), Heavy Armor (SP:5, Immune to Fragile, bodywear), Sylvania's Cowl (Permits Animal Talk, Headwear), Blood Oath Medallion (Accessory, Blessed) Inventory: Magical Staff (WP: 15; Water-, Darkness-elemental; staff), Mourning Star (WP: 10; Fire-elemental; inflicts Fragile-effect; mace), Bent Crowbar (WP: 8; 3x damage to Mechanic enemies; hammer), Axe of the Minotaur Champion (WP: 30; user is Slowed and Immune to Hastened; cannot be equipped at the same time as a shield; axe), Shield of the Red Lizard (SP: 2, Immune to Blind), Helm of the Lord of Light (Headwear, Immunity to Light and Jinxed, Suitable for Knights), Seal of the Warrior Priestess (At the beginning of the battle the user has a 1/6 chance to be Transcended, a 1/6 chance to be Blessed, and a 1/6 chance to be Inspired, Accessory, Suitable for Paladins), • Medal of Valor (Double experience from battles, accessory), Robe of the Archmagi (SP:3; Max Ether +5; Immune to Sealed; bodywear), White Cloak (Max HP +3; backwear) • No Gems • No Scrolls • Phoenix Essence, Grand Tonics (3), Potions (4), Elixirs (3), Remedies (6), Tiger Balm, Neutralizer, Essence of Sorrow (50% assassination chance on non-immune target), Venom (2), Fire Bombs (2), Ice Bombs (2), Lightning Bombs (2), Water Bombs (2), Dirt Bombs (2), Air Bombs (2), Bone, Milk (restores 15 HP and 15 Ether), Carrot (restores 5 HP, 10 to rabbits), Ether Core, Grand potion, Ambrosia (3) • Shovel, Bedroll, Magnifying Glass Matthias the Carnival Crusader (nstickney) Level 10 Ranger *Immune to Bound, Slowed* *Blessed* Power Bonus: 1 Defense: 0 Health: 15/15 Gold: 63 Equipment: Fireball Extraordinaire (Hand Cannon, WP:5, also hits enemies listed above and below target, user is Slowed), Winged Sandals (Footwear, protects from Bound and Slowed effects), Blood Oath Medallion (Accessory, Blessed) Inventory: Steel Cutlass (Sword, WP:5, suitable for Knights or Rogues), Sword of the Red Lizard (Longsword, WP:10, fire-elemental), Grimmau's Clothespin (Headwear, prevents the first negative effect inflicted on the wearer during a battle), Grand Potion, Grating Stone, 2x Mead, Phoenix Essence, Remedy, Smelling Salts, Smoke Bomb, Bedroll, Dapper Hat (wearer has a 1/6 chance of being Encouraged at the start of any battle), Quickdraw Quiver (permanent hastened-effect, suitable to Rangers), Russel Ruffers & Sir Pigley Level 16.5 Rogue *Hastened* *Blessed* Power: 42 Health: 26/30 Defense: 4 Gold: 346 Equipment: Crabspirator (WP: 16, deals the Blinded effect, darkness elemental, longsword), Crab Shell Armor (Body Wear, +4 Max Health, 4 SP), Pigley (+4 Power, +4 Max Health, Hastened, Not an Artifact), Blood Oath Medallion (Accessory, Blessed) Inventory: Rebel's Sword (Longsword, WP: 11) OoC: Please note that XX can perform actions both as a Alchemist and Cannoneer. The heroes head out to the docks. The water is choppy. Aventine looks worried. He keeps glancing at the sky, and seeing him do it, the heroes follow suit. There are dark clouds rolling in off the sea. Eventually they meet with the man who is supposed to take them out to sea. He and Aventine hold a brief conversation out of ear shot, but it becomes clear quickly what he's saying. "I'm sorry, I just can't take a ship out in this weather. I'm already in the dog house as it is. Sunk the last damn ship I took out," he eyes the heroes, not suspiciously or maliciously or even accusatorially, just pointedly: "that one was on the behest of a Heroica employer as well." Aventine looks up at the skies. They are, in the Captain's defense, incredibly stormy. The heroes know that manipulation of weather is possible, but incredibly hard for Mages... and even the best of them can't change an entire storm on an entire ocean, just effect small areas. "If you can find somewhere to stay for the night, I'll be able to take you tomorrow, assuming the storm passes." There is clearly no point in arguing, so as the dark clouds pile up in the sky above them, the heroes make their way to a nearby tavern, the Albatross, to spend the evening. The heroes pile in, and Aventine picks a table. The heroes look at the bar... and the one other occupied table... What would they like to do?

I will be hosting pitching another small short quest that I will get to you in under a month - I just want to let 102 get on it's feet first! Summer is actually the easiest time for me to host.

Certainly could be interesting - perhaps the Regulator could spend a turn to sacrifice half of his current health to change forms, as a nice mirror to the Internal Conflict? That'd be a tweak I'd consider, again if the class ever seems like it needs tweaking. It seems pretty balanced as is, though I have yet to host it!

OoC: An accessory must take the place of an accessory.

Boomingham attacks Abe with his Frozen Saber from the front row, hoping Nyx will keep him out of trouble.

Bart Aventine clears his throat. "If you're all done with your questions for me, and your catching up, I do have one more caveat before we leave this basement. You are playing in a game of powerful men, and the temptation to flip or flop will no doubt be great. I have prepared for that eventuality, and have created these to prevent it from happening." The man raises seven medallions. "These are the Blood Oath Medallions. You are to wear them. While you wear them, you will receive a portion of my power. However, should you let me die, the Medallion will sap away some of your strength." Blood Oath Medallion (Accessory, Suitable for anyone: User is blessed, if Bart Aventine dies, the user will lose .1 of their max health rounded up, permanently) "Are you still willing to proceed? If not, Everyman will go collect new heroes from the Hall, but time is of the essence, and I like the group we have here."

Absolutely! I don't know if I'll ever tweak it, but I'm certainly not opposed to it (if it's allowed) and I'd at least like feedback! I'm interested! The only other person who's ever played it, as far as I know, is me, and I didn't really work on a build for it.

Alexis apparently does not remember that quite a few people that XX knew (and even one or two he considered a friend) and saw her with last did not live, but perhaps she's the sort of hero who only counts other heroes as worth mentioning as far as death goes! "You may of course address both of us! Unlike you humans, dwarves, elves, Orcs... all you so called non-animals, we crabs treat our steads with respect. Just because I ride him does not mean he is not my best friend!" "We've all got to play our part," intones Pigley solemnly. "Right you are! I think Atramor may have mentioned XX... and not too positively, but he looks like he can get the job done, and Johnny picks good friends for the most part. Chauncey is a name I recognize for sure, he actually funded the play that Pigley and Everyman took part in! He's a powerful foe, but Russel Ruffers never turns down a fight!"

Regulator and Beast Warrior already switch battle styles, though not as willfully! Could be interesting! I hope you enjoy playing as Regulator, by the by, Pie. I keep forgetting to ask you what you think of it, being the only person who's ever taken me up on the class!

No, you are not, that still very much figures into my plan to go Necromancer... eventually, if I get the chance before reaching Level 40... when was the most recent Zeigfried quest?

OoC: The quiver is suitable for all rangers, so you'll be good! XX can't help but look flattered, though he covers it with another smirk and some light sarcasm. "You Heroicans talk about me? La-de-da." "The demon was such a pompous one that he did not say specific penalties. I do not doubt, in his twisted sick mind, that he believed we would show up without hesitation, that human life, to us, is not something precious and the prospect of losing our own or stealing another's does not bother us in the least. He did outline some specific conditions - we must meet at the exact spot that we met him last time. I do not know what he will do if I do not arrive. Perhaps, though I hope not, he will take my fellow Apprentice's life, or perhaps as retribution he will consider me the loser by default and find me. I believe that is better than going, though, as I would much prefer to lose my life than the life of my old friend, and I would furthermore hope that Ennoc saw my final act as defying instead of bowing to a demon." "The further away I can get, the better. I have always wanted to go to Charis. I have always avoided it due to political turmoil, but I hear things have quieted down there. Perhaps I can finally make that trip." "Certainly. As you may know, considering that wand of your's, there is ether out in the world. No one, not even the greatest mages, fully understand it, but it allows us to manipulate things around us - heat, water, light, darkness. We can create luck, we can create speed, we can create music. The more difficult the task, the more ether it consumes. Raising the dead, for example, a dark art that I am embarrassed to admit I've tried once or twice, though no more, requires an enormous amount of ether, and all at once too. This demon allowed me greater stores of ether, and greater powers of manipulation - furthermore, more ether can course through my body at once, and so I can accomplish tasks I once believed impossible. My fellow Apprentice, a man you may now know by the title Lord Chauncey, is capable of similarly great feats. The demon also gave us both incredibly powerful weapons. I have since buried mine. And do not go looking for it. You won't find it." "Can't say I'm surprised. Heroica crosses paths with just about everyone. Besides, I told Nyx I thought you'd all live. Can't say I'm unhappy that I'm right." He sneers. "You did all live, right? Or, at least most of you?"

Tesni or Skrall are the two I'd look to as well. Though I believe that Althior may have done an impressive amount of damage at the end of 68 with his enormous horde of rats. And yes, XX is back once more! I think I've commented before that he's one of my favorite NPCs to play. And don't feel you have to read up on him if you don't want to Matthias/Purpearl - 102 is designed to have lots of references, but you don't need any other quests to actually understand what's going on. So no pressure either way!

Boomingham turns his sword on the Tunnel Snake, following Nyx's instructions.

Don't worry, I'm determined for you to get one of those lamps one day!

Johnny Everyman waves the heroes along into a squat ransacked house. The insides smell of mold and rot, and the wood is soaked to the core, soft, creaking, spongey. He leads them to the basement, which is marginally better - at least made of stone, though this too is crumbling, and dirt is poking through the cracks. "Hello heroes, I'm Bart Aventine," says Bart (who I embarrassingly enough forgot to take a picture for...) "I'm glad you could make it. And Russel Ruffers and Sir Pigley as well. You come highly recommended from Everyman, all of you. I am told by Everyman that some of you may know my other body guard, also highly recommended by Everyman." "Howdy there heroes, long time no see," says XX with his signature smirk. "Always wondered what'd it be like to work alongside you instead of blowing you to bits, so when Everyman offered me the job..." he scans the faces of the heroes discretely, though he must know the face he was hoping for wasn't there - "I jumped at the chance. I think Alexis is the only one I know. How's it going, Alexis. Glad to see you're alive and all, I guess." [bart] "Are you all going to catch up, or can I tell you a little bit about what we're doing here?" "Sure, get on with the show." [bart] "Thank you. The situation, heroes, is simple. Seven years ago, when I was younger and more foolish, and craved power over all else - as many young men do - a fellow apprentice and I stumbled upon a demon in the woods. Stumbled perhaps is the wrong word. We sought him out. Three witches visited us at night promising us great power if we struck a deal with him, and so we went to find him. He did indeed grant us great power, and we have used it since. But he was a demon. And he had a stipulation. When seven years passed, we were to meet him and each other, and we would duel to the death." Bart Aventine does not sigh at his misfortune, or smile pettily as if what he says is some paltry tale with foolish characters. His face remains solemn and drawn. "When I was young, seven years seemed a long time, and the idea of killing my fellow apprentice - Ennoc forgive me - did not make me feel ashamed, or even frightened. I was sure I could kill him, as I am sure now. It is now only a question of wanting to, or not, and I have found in my seven years since than that I have no desire to kill. I have performed many great and terrible deeds, but I have, through them, become a changed man. I am not old and wise yet, but I have every desire to be, and wish the same for all peoples. I have found, in the last two years, the call of Ennoc - not the call that the ferocious Paladins answer, but a happier call. A kinder call." "If I could, I would go to the duel and lay down my life so that my former friend could live, but I am very afraid that a deal with a demon, and dying while fulfilling such a deal, will prevent me from entering Ennoc's Holy Land. And so I will not go to the duel, at the place where the demon told us to meet, and I have advised my fellow former apprentice, now my peer, to do the same. But he will not listen to reason. He hunts for me, and for my life. He will not live and let live, but would rather see one of us die, and all for the sport of some spawn of Zoot." "The duel is on the Seventh of the Week. Today is the First. All I ask is that you protect me until then. Are there any questions I can answer for you?"