Zepher

OoC: Peppermint, if you want to say some final words retro-actively, that's okay with me! I know the Nords are important to Tesni. The heroes bid farewell to the Nords and get on their way. Heweyrt leads them towards the outer wall again, and begins to laugh as he does so, a vicious and piercing sound that continues as he throws his head back. "He's a smart one, that chief, isn't he? Do you understand what he did there, heroes?" Heweyrt does not wait for them to respond. "He was giving us a little reminder, Speros and I, of why he's here. He wants to be paid to 'protect' the bridge, which essentially means ordering his own Nords to not attack it. He knows that there are those who don't want to negotiate with him, and just kill the Fire Nords. He was reminding us, those who listen to him, that it'd be costly to do that." Heweyrt laughs. "He's smart too. Did you hear how he threw in that bit about raiding the Four Boulder's coast? He's reminding King Speros that paying him off on the bridge would benefit his kingdom in particular. The Chief is honest, that's true, but he knows how to speak the language of politics as well. Needless to say, I like him." Wedged up against the outer wall is a little store. Heweyrt stops before it. "Cheapest prices in the city," he assures them as they begin to pick through the wares. Potion – Restores 10 health to the target. Costs 10 gold. Tonic – Restores 5 ether to the target. Costs 20 gold. Remedy – Removes all negative effects from the target. Costs 10 gold. Phoenix Essence – Revives a fallen ally with full health during a battle. Costs 75 gold. Mead - Causes the encouraged-effect, doubling the target's attack power for the duration of one battle. Costs 10 gold. Flame-distilled Brandy - Causes the encouraged- and the immune to ice-effects for the duration of one battle. Costs 15 gold. Mulled Wine - Causes the inspired-effect, doubling the target's current and maximum health for the duration of one battle. Costs 45 gold. Ambrosia - Causes the reinforced-effect, double the target's defense for the duration of one battle. Costs 55 gold. Military Grade Fire Bomb – Causes 10 points of fire-elemental damage to all enemies, doubled if the target is weak to fire. Costs 10 gold.

OoC: Forgot to add Jess' gold last round. It's added now. At least this was a profitable battle! Round Six Nordic Sparring Match Jess v. Erik - Special Damage (Bleeding, Burning and Dead Poisoned) Jess v. Dion - Shield (+109 Gold) Erik and Dion Lose One Health to Poison Jess is KO'd Jess pockets some further gold and then is downed by her foe's viscous axe. The battle is lost. No one gains experience. The Party Hoke Ablesword The Krakenwhacker and Titan Smiter (UsernameMDM) *Party Leader* Level 29.33 Mystic Knight *Immune to Darkness, Fragile, Weakened, Sealed, and Confused* Power Bonus: 8 Defense: 25 Health: 48/48 Ether: 23/29 Gold: 328 Equipment: Flagpole (WP:4, +3 SP to the whole party whenever equipped, lance), Steel Buckler (SP: 20, immune to darkness), Samurai Helmet (WP: 4, immune to sealed and confused, suitable to knights, dragoons, regulators, winged warriors), Pugilist Gloves (+2 to power, immune Weakened), Heavy Armor (SP:5, immune Fragile) Inventory: Vintul (WP: 16; greatsword), Warrior's Treads (SP:2, Health +1), Gladiator Trident (WP: 11, causes the Bleeding effect; spear), Electro Gear (Adds lightning-element to physical attacks and protects from lightning-elemental damage, accessory), Cultist Hat (damage vs undead), Counterstrike Gloves, Opal (Ice), Ruby (Fire), Sapphire (Wind), Emerald (Wood), Aquamarine (Water), 2x Amethyst (Darkness), Diamond (Light), Topaz (Lightning), Garnet (Earth), Scroll of Frailty, Scroll of Weakening, Scroll of Blindness, Scroll of Confusion, Scroll of Sealing, Scroll of Sleep, 4x Potions, 4x Grand Potions, Remedy, 3x Phoenix Essences, Phoenix Incense, 3x Mead, 4x Ether Core, Dragon Scale (Grants lucky- and blessed-effects when consumed), Grating Stone, Zoot's Plaything (Special 3/4 Edition), Water Bomb, Dirt Bomb, 2x Smoke Bomb, 3x Venom, 3x Deadly Venom, Bedroll, Pickaxe, Shovel, Kraken Fang (grants hastened- and reinforced-effects when consumed), 2x Titan Heart (Grants encouraged- and inspired-effects when consumed), Level Up Mushroom, Pumpkin Bomb, Mulled Wine, Tonic Benji Carvenhall, the Dragonslayer Level 35 Beastwarrior *Natural Respite* *Gains Triple XP* *Immune to Asleep, Blinded, Confused, Fragile, and Weakened Effects* *KO'd* Power: 51 (35+16) Defense: 9 (3+6) Health: 1/61 (6+34+15+6) Gold: 313 (owes 500 to Alexis Fenral) Equipment: Meduiak (Precision Bow; WP:16; AIM's become HIT's; darkness-, ice-, fire-, wind- elemental), Medal of Glory (accessory, mark of true talent that allows the wearer to gain triple experience from battles, immunity to asleep, blinded, confused, fragile, and weakened effects), Tricorne (headwear, SP:3), Overkill Gloves [borrowed from Galen] (handwear, +1 gold for every point of damage done extra when defeating an enemy), Scaly Skin of the Allanoid (SP:6, backwear, suitable for Ranger and Barbarian Oriented Classes and Beast Warriors) Inventory: Crossbow of the Pongcanis (WP:15; earth-, wood-, water-, lightning-, light-elemental), Brown Dragon Girdle (bodywear, power +3; immunity to wood; suitable to rangers, rogues, alchemists and beast warriors), Ratmancer's Cowl (headgear, the wearer's physical attacks deal double damage against vermin), Trickster's Mask of the Gender Swap (artefact, accessory), Health Core (6), Grand Potion (11), Potion, Remedy (6), Phoenix Essence (5), Phoenix Incense (2), Dragon Scales (3), Nostrum (4), Smelling Salts (4), Mead (5), Mulled Wine (4), Venom, Smoke Bomb (3), Skeleton Decoy, Lightning Bomb, Fire Bomb 2x, Water Bomb, Bone, Magic Compass, Pickaxe, Bedroll, Shovel, Puglist's Gloves (Handwear, +2 Power, Immune to Weakened Effect), Chaotic Bomb, Cosmic Essence Tesni Hightribe, Level 32 3/4 Beserker *Restoration* *Immune to Afraid* Power: 59 Power Bonus: 0 Defense: 14 Health: 51/51 Gold: 1476 Equipment: Fàelàn (WP:20, 8x damage to enemies weak to fire, fire-elemental longsword)),Sir Roderick’s Shield (SP:11, Immunity to afraid), Bone Claws (WP:3, SP:2; handwear), Dragon Bone Armor (SP:4, Max. Health +2; bodywear), Barbarian's Boots (Changes “Natural Respite” job trait into “Restoration”, restoring full health after every battle; suitable for barbarians, chi monks and beast warriors). Inventory: Mellt (WP:10, ice- and lightning-elemental; hammer), Qilin Blade (WP:15, damages undead, ignores row and SP; longsword), Cysgodion (WP:14, darkness-elemental; greatsword), Dryw ar Zoot (WP:14, light-elemental; longsword), Cryfder (WP:6),Party Maracas (WP:4, user is hastened, instrument), Rebel's Dagger (WP: 5), 2 Shackles of War (prevents all fleeing, accessory), Red Dragon Plume (artifact, accessory, immunity to Weakened and Fire, suitable to Barbarians, Knights, Skirmishers, Winged Warriors), King's Crown (Headwear, protects against Doom and Petrified, Suitable for all classes), Scroll of Sleep, Remedy, Tiger Balm, Elixir, 2 Phoenix Essences, 5 Venoms, 2 Deadly Venoms, 3 Meads, 2 Smelling Salts, Nostrum, Soma, Deadly Venom, Smoke Bomb, Bright Polish, Aquamarine Lamp of Summoning, Mod Rod (WP:10, causes the afraid-effect; lightning-elemental staff suitable for staff members only). Mulled Wine, Potion Jess Islanti (Sisco) Level 19.5 Assassin *Immune to Weakened Effect* Power: 37 (+4) (19+14+2+2) Health: 1/31 (+1) (7+18+5+1) Gold: 816 Equipment: Blohdhurm (WP: 14)(Fire elemental, Permanently Poisoned), Pugilist's Gloves (+2 to Power, immune to the Weakened Effect) Inventory: 2 Venoms, 2 Meads, 2 Grand Potions, Dragonfire Stew (Gives the consumer the encouraged and inspired effects for the duration of one battle), Mulled Wine, Potion, Medal of Honor (Accessory, User Gains Triple Experience) Chief Byrne approaches the heroes as they dust themselves off and pick themselves up. "You hardly scratched my warriors, but you fought with honor - two on two, and those who fell remain down. You were brave enough, as well, to fight at all - more than I can say for most of the cowards in this city! I am impressed." Iorek growls his approval as well. "I hear you are here to defend Augustus Bridge. Is this true?" "It is." "Do you heroes know the story of Augustus and the Nords? It is an important tale, and one you must know if you are to be up in these Kingdoms. I will tell it to you. It is a story the Nords hold dear..." --- "When Augustuc came North, he soon saw that he was outmatched in numbers and skill. The Orcs were too many, too fierce, too strong. He saw that he would die here. So he came to us, the Nords, to beg our help. He came with his army and met us on the river that the bridge now spans, the Navaosh River. He begged us for help. And we said, as is our way: no. We asked what he had ever done for us that we should die for him. We asked why our blood should run for his." "His men hissed, told him to take our lives. But King Augustus bowed to us. He told us that he had never done anything for us. He admitted there was no reason for us to save him, and he apologized. His men raised their swords, but he told them to lower them. He let us sail freely, and wished us the best of luck. He then went to face his death." --- "It is a story of respect, heroes. A man cannot ask from another what he himself would not do. That is a rule of the Nords. We help those who help us. We respect those who respect us. We fight with those who fight for us, and fight against those who would do us harm. Respect." "Prince David houses us, but clearly has no love for us. He wishes to use our captive, the Orcish chief, to exchange for his father. He does not respect the spoils of war. He does not know that our honor demands we hold our prisoner. He expects it as a gift. What has he gifted to us? The Warrior Priest too does not respect us. He does not respect our Gods. He looks down on us from his throne of Light." "The General Hamilton does not respect us. Prince Speros does not respect us, and neither does his General Mint. All three of them wish to crush us, and think they could do it easily. They do not recognize the lives they'd lose." "Only King Speros respects us, and so it is him alone that we respect. We raid his coasts, he defends them. He wishes it to end, not due to fear, but because he is a smart man. He wishes to bond with power instead of fight it. He respects us and so we respect him." Chief Flamehead nods to King Speros, who nods back. "Heweyrt too knows we are a force. He will listen to us, and so we listen to him. We tell you this so that you know who our friends our. The Fire Nords do not lie or hide from those they respect. You fought honorably and you fought with respect for your foe. So we make sure that you are friends with our friends." "Thank you for the ringing endorsement, Chief," says Heweyrt, grinning. "And thank you for showing me what my heroes can do. But we've got to get going - it's time for them to cross the river and see the other side. Maybe see who they respect themselves. And they'd like to stock up before going too." "I will meet you at the river as well, heroes. I believe it's time for me to cross and see some action. My axe grows restless, and I tire of being in the same city as Prince David. I must gather some troops first, but I will see you there." King Speros nods respectfully to the Chief and walks off into the city. Would the heroes like to say anything else to the Nordic Chief before they head off to restock and cross the river?

"Ellaria, patch yourself up while you've got the chance." (Back Row) "Hybros, I'm usually not one for letting them run, but the girl deserved a chance. If she comes back to fight me again... I hope she knows she will get no mercy. But her crimes are not so great that I feel she must die. Lupine, on the other hand... well, chappo, guess I shouldn't offer you the chance to run if you think it'd be dishonorable of me to strike you down later." Boomingham attacks Lupine from the front row.

Round Five Nordic Sparring Match Jess v. Erik - Shield (109 Gold Stolen) Jess v. Dion - Critical Hit (No Damage due to Elemental, Dion is Poisoned) Erik and Dion Lose One Health to Poison Jess pockets some more gold and manages to poison her second foe. The "Enemies" Erik the Fire Gut Level 42 Fiery Humanoid *Immune to Ice, Water and Instant Kill* Health: 438/440 SP: 4 Special: Fire Gut - Erik cuts a deep gash across the hero's belly, giving them the burning effect (3 damage a round) the bleeding effect (5 damage a round) and the deadly poisoned effect (10 damage a round). Drops: Nordic Stomach Guard (SP: 3, Immunity to Ice and Water, Bodywear, Suitable for Barbarians, Regulators, and Beast Warriors), Nasal Helmet (SP: 1, Headwear) Dion the Burning Heart Level 65 Fiery Humanoid *Deals Fire & Ice Elemental Damage* *Immune to Instant Kill* Health: 263/264 Special: Heart Burn - Dion attacks the hero, dealing 40 damage. The hero's heart is set aflame by the attack, and they receive the fragile and enraged effects. Drops: 75 Gold, Sharp Axe (WP: 14, Fire Ice Elemental) The Party Benji Carvenhall, the Dragonslayer Level 35 Beastwarrior *Natural Respite* *Gains Triple XP* *Immune to Asleep, Blinded, Confused, Fragile, and Weakened Effects* *KO'd* Power: 51 (35+16) Defense: 9 (3+6) Health: 0/61 (6+34+15+6) Gold: 313 (owes 500 to Alexis Fenral) Equipment: Meduiak (Precision Bow; WP:16; AIM's become HIT's; darkness-, ice-, fire-, wind- elemental), Medal of Glory (accessory, mark of true talent that allows the wearer to gain triple experience from battles, immunity to asleep, blinded, confused, fragile, and weakened effects), Tricorne (headwear, SP:3), Overkill Gloves [borrowed from Galen] (handwear, +1 gold for every point of damage done extra when defeating an enemy), Scaly Skin of the Allanoid (SP:6, backwear, suitable for Ranger and Barbarian Oriented Classes and Beast Warriors) Inventory: Crossbow of the Pongcanis (WP:15; earth-, wood-, water-, lightning-, light-elemental), Brown Dragon Girdle (bodywear, power +3; immunity to wood; suitable to rangers, rogues, alchemists and beast warriors), Ratmancer's Cowl (headgear, the wearer's physical attacks deal double damage against vermin), Trickster's Mask of the Gender Swap (artefact, accessory), Health Core (6), Grand Potion (11), Potion, Remedy (6), Phoenix Essence (5), Phoenix Incense (2), Dragon Scales (3), Nostrum (4), Smelling Salts (4), Mead (5), Mulled Wine (4), Venom, Smoke Bomb (3), Skeleton Decoy, Lightning Bomb, Fire Bomb 2x, Water Bomb, Bone, Magic Compass, Pickaxe, Bedroll, Shovel, Puglist's Gloves (Handwear, +2 Power, Immune to Weakened Effect), Chaotic Bomb, Cosmic Essence Jess Islanti (Sisco) Level 19.5 Assassin *Immune to Weakened Effect* *Hastened* Power: 37 (+4) (19+14+2+2) Health: 12/31 (+1) (7+18+5+1) Gold: 598 Equipment: Blohdhurm (WP: 14)(Fire elemental, Permanently Poisoned), Pugilist's Gloves (+2 to Power, immune to the Weakened Effect) Inventory: 2 Venoms, 2 Meads, 2 Grand Potions, Dragonfire Stew (Gives the consumer the encouraged and inspired effects for the duration of one battle), Mulled Wine, Potion, Medal of Honor (Accessory, User Gains Triple Experience)

It was unexpected. You both got shields one round too... and I was shocked to find out that you both have shields that don't actually deal any damage. The fact that Jess only carries a fie imbued blade also hurt matters...

Round Four Nordic Sparring Match Benji v. Dion - Special Damage (40 Damage, KO'd) >Jess takes a Remedy >Jess v. Erik - Hit (No Damage, Fire Elemental, Erik Poisoned) Erik Loses One Health to Poison In what seems to be the most back and forth battle possible, the Nords rally and strike back. The "Enemies" "Now it's just the lady." Erik the Fire Gut Level 42 Fiery Humanoid *Immune to Ice, Water and Instant Kill* Health: 439/440 SP: 4 Special: Fire Gut - Erik cuts a deep gash across the hero's belly, giving them the burning effect (3 damage a round) the bleeding effect (5 damage a round) and the deadly poisoned effect (10 damage a round). Drops: Nordic Stomach Guard (SP: 3, Immunity to Ice and Water, Bodywear, Suitable for Barbarians, Regulators, and Beast Warriors), Nasal Helmet (SP: 1, Headwear) "He fell like a sack of meat." Dion the Burning Heart Level 65 Fiery Humanoid *Deals Fire & Ice Elemental Damage* *Immune to Instant Kill* Health: 264/264 Special: Heart Burn - Dion attacks the hero, dealing 40 damage. The hero's heart is set aflame by the attack, and they receive the fragile and enraged effects. Drops: 75 Gold, Sharp Axe (WP: 14, Fire Ice Elemental) The Party Benji Carvenhall, the Dragonslayer Level 35 Beastwarrior *Natural Respite* *Gains Triple XP* *Immune to Asleep, Blinded, Confused, Fragile, and Weakened Effects* *KO'd* Power: 51 (35+16) Defense: 9 (3+6) Health: 0/61 (6+34+15+6) Gold: 313 (owes 500 to Alexis Fenral) Equipment: Meduiak (Precision Bow; WP:16; AIM's become HIT's; darkness-, ice-, fire-, wind- elemental), Medal of Glory (accessory, mark of true talent that allows the wearer to gain triple experience from battles, immunity to asleep, blinded, confused, fragile, and weakened effects), Tricorne (headwear, SP:3), Overkill Gloves [borrowed from Galen] (handwear, +1 gold for every point of damage done extra when defeating an enemy), Scaly Skin of the Allanoid (SP:6, backwear, suitable for Ranger and Barbarian Oriented Classes and Beast Warriors) Inventory: Crossbow of the Pongcanis (WP:15; earth-, wood-, water-, lightning-, light-elemental), Brown Dragon Girdle (bodywear, power +3; immunity to wood; suitable to rangers, rogues, alchemists and beast warriors), Ratmancer's Cowl (headgear, the wearer's physical attacks deal double damage against vermin), Trickster's Mask of the Gender Swap (artefact, accessory), Health Core (6), Grand Potion (11), Potion, Remedy (6), Phoenix Essence (5), Phoenix Incense (2), Dragon Scales (3), Nostrum (4), Smelling Salts (4), Mead (5), Mulled Wine (4), Venom, Smoke Bomb (3), Skeleton Decoy, Lightning Bomb, Fire Bomb 2x, Water Bomb, Bone, Magic Compass, Pickaxe, Bedroll, Shovel, Puglist's Gloves (Handwear, +2 Power, Immune to Weakened Effect), Chaotic Bomb, Cosmic Essence Jess Islanti (Sisco) Level 19.5 Assassin *Immune to Weakened Effect* *Hastened* Power: 37 (+4) (19+14+2+2) Health: 12/31 (+1) (7+18+5+1) Gold: 598 Equipment: Blohdhurm (WP: 14)(Fire elemental, Permanently Poisoned), Pugilist's Gloves (+2 to Power, immune to the Weakened Effect) Inventory: Mercutio's Dagger of Mugging (WP:5, Mug Ability +5), Diamond of Thoric, 2 Venoms, 2 Meads, 2 Grand Potions, Dragonfire Stew (Gives the consumer the encouraged and inspired effects for the duration of one battle), Mulled Wine, Potion, Medal of Honor (Accessory, User Gains Triple Experience) OoC: Everyone else, please note anything that you lost/gained in the Grogmas exchange. "Gocklo, go run and grab Nerwen. I think we're almost done here." "Looks like they're tougher than the bearded guys hehe!" Gocklo scampers off.

OoC: Get those actions in soon, it's been over 24 hours and I will be a stickler for that this quest as we have another two to keep up with. "I hope you remember to fight with honor," says Heweyrt with a smirk to the heroes.

I'd like to again reiterate that quest 92 is in no way closed to specific people! I'd love to host new and/or old blood, so don't be afraid to sign up if you're just sitting around the Hall. It will be a VERY quick quest - I predict 3 weeks max. If anyone liked the pacing/style of "Bad Blood", then you'll probably enjoy this quest. Also, Sandy, is there any way that could be added to the list of "Hinckwell/Shadeaux" story-arch quests? Or did it not focus on them enough? EDIT #2: All this note writing has gotten me insanely excited for Strivvi, round 2!! And now it's finally coming up. :grin:

"Your youngest friend says you owe me a kiss," Barty says, both teasing and fearful. "Stop going through my mail. I'll deal with them once I finish the battle." Boomingham glances the direction that Pinkmenia fled in. "Hope she doesn't just return to crime. But ah well. Gave her a chance. That's all she gets." Boomingham turns to his two remaining foes. "The lady was a pretty good dancer. Respectable, powerful. But now it's your turn. I tend to play nice with the ladies, but I don't know how I'll feel about you fellows. Hybros, if you'll continue to handle the demon spawn, I'll take on this big bad wolf." Boomingham points Scupperer at Lupine. "You too may flee, but I'll let you know, if you try to, I'll be hard on your heels. This is it for you, chappo." Boomingham attacks from the front row.

Round Three Nordic Sparring Match >Jess uses a Grand Potion on Benji Benji v. Dion - Damage (65-9=54 Damage) >Jess v. Erik - Special Damage (Jess Burned, Bleeding and Deadly Poisoned) Jess loses 18 Health (Combined Effects) In what seems to be the most back and forth battle possible, the Nords rally and strike back. The "Enemies" "Enough with the potions! Fight!" Erik the Fire Gut Level 42 Fiery Humanoid *Immune to Ice, Water and Instant Kill* Health: 440/440 SP: 4 Special: Fire Gut - Erik cuts a deep gash across the hero's belly, giving them the burning effect (3 damage a round) the bleeding effect (5 damage a round) and the deadly poisoned effect (10 damage a round). Drops: Nordic Stomach Guard (SP: 3, Immunity to Ice and Water, Bodywear, Suitable for Barbarians, Regulators, and Beast Warriors), Nasal Helmet (SP: 1, Headwear) "The lizard ain't so tough!" Dion the Burning Heart Level 65 Fiery Humanoid *Deals Fire & Ice Elemental Damage* *Immune to Instant Kill* Health: 264/264 Special: Heart Burn - Dion attacks the hero, dealing 40 damage. The hero's heart is set aflame by the attack, and they receive the fragile and enraged effects. Drops: 75 Gold, Sharp Axe (WP: 14, Fire Ice Elemental) The Party Benji Carvenhall, the Dragonslayer Level 35 Beastwarrior *Natural Respite* *Gains Triple XP* *Immune to Asleep, Blinded, Confused, Fragile, and Weakened Effects* *Encouraged* Power: 51 (35+16) Defense: 9 (3+6) Health: 7/61 (6+34+15+6) Gold: 313 (owes 500 to Alexis Fenral) Equipment: Meduiak (Precision Bow; WP:16; AIM's become HIT's; darkness-, ice-, fire-, wind- elemental), Medal of Glory (accessory, mark of true talent that allows the wearer to gain triple experience from battles, immunity to asleep, blinded, confused, fragile, and weakened effects), Tricorne (headwear, SP:3), Overkill Gloves [borrowed from Galen] (handwear, +1 gold for every point of damage done extra when defeating an enemy), Scaly Skin of the Allanoid (SP:6, backwear, suitable for Ranger and Barbarian Oriented Classes and Beast Warriors) Inventory: Crossbow of the Pongcanis (WP:15; earth-, wood-, water-, lightning-, light-elemental), Brown Dragon Girdle (bodywear, power +3; immunity to wood; suitable to rangers, rogues, alchemists and beast warriors), Ratmancer's Cowl (headgear, the wearer's physical attacks deal double damage against vermin), Trickster's Mask of the Gender Swap (artefact, accessory), Health Core (6), Grand Potion (11), Potion, Remedy (6), Phoenix Essence (5), Phoenix Incense (2), Dragon Scales (3), Nostrum (4), Smelling Salts (4), Mead (5), Mulled Wine (4), Venom, Smoke Bomb (3), Skeleton Decoy, Lightning Bomb, Fire Bomb 2x, Water Bomb, Bone, Magic Compass, Pickaxe, Bedroll, Shovel, Puglist's Gloves (Handwear, +2 Power, Immune to Weakened Effect) Jess Islanti (Sisco) Level 19.5 Assassin *Immune to Weakened Effect* *Hastened* *Burning (3 Damage)* *Bleeding (5 Damage)* *Deadly Poisoned (10 Damage)* Power: 37 (+4) (19+14+2+2) Health: 12/31 (+1) (7+18+5+1) Gold: 598 Equipment: Blohdhurm (WP: 14)(Fire elemental, Permanently Poisoned), Pugilist's Gloves (+2 to Power, immune to the Weakened Effect) Inventory: Mercutio's Dagger of Mugging (WP:5, Mug Ability +5), Diamond of Thoric, 2 Venoms, 2 Meads, Remedy, 2 Grand Potions, Dragonfire Stew (Gives the consumer the encouraged and inspired effects for the duration of one battle), Mulled Wine, Potion, Medal of Honor (Accessory, User Gains Triple Experience)

OoC: I intended for Dion to also be immune to instant kill (actually helps you guys in this battle) but forgot to note it. If this is something you find unfair, as always, I am willing to discuss. Round Two Nordic Sparring Match >Benji v. Dion - Shield (Beast Form) Jess takes Grand Potion >Jess v. Erik - Shield (42+65=107 Gold Gained) The nords stumble backwards as Benji tears through his cloths and becomes a huge reptile once more. Jess is able to pocket some gold in the confusion. The "Enemies" "Dear Thoric!" Erik the Fire Gut Level 42 Fiery Humanoid *Immune to Ice, Water and Instant Kill* Health: 440/440 SP: 4 Special: Fire Gut - Erik cuts a deep gash across the hero's belly, giving them the burning effect (3 damage a round) the bleeding effect (5 damage a round) and the deadly poisoned effect (10 damage a round). Drops: Nordic Stomach Guard (SP: 3, Immunity to Ice and Water, Bodywear, Suitable for Barbarians, Regulators, and Beast Warriors), Nasal Helmet (SP: 1, Headwear) "Now THIS is a fight." Dion the Burning Heart Level 65 Fiery Humanoid *Deals Fire & Ice Elemental Damage* *Immune to Instant Kill* Health: 264/264 Special: Heart Burn - Dion attacks the hero, dealing 40 damage. The hero's heart is set aflame by the attack, and they receive the fragile and enraged effects. Drops: 75 Gold, Sharp Axe (WP: 14, Fire Ice Elemental) The Party Benji Carvenhall, the Dragonslayer Level 35 Beastwarrior *Natural Respite* *Gains Triple XP* *Immune to Asleep, Blinded, Confused, Fragile, and Weakened Effects* *Encouraged* Power: 51 (35+16) Defense: 9 (3+6) Health: 36/61 (6+34+15+6) Gold: 313 (owes 500 to Alexis Fenral) Equipment: Meduiak (Precision Bow; WP:16; AIM's become HIT's; darkness-, ice-, fire-, wind- elemental), Medal of Glory (accessory, mark of true talent that allows the wearer to gain triple experience from battles, immunity to asleep, blinded, confused, fragile, and weakened effects), Tricorne (headwear, SP:3), Overkill Gloves [borrowed from Galen] (handwear, +1 gold for every point of damage done extra when defeating an enemy), Scaly Skin of the Allanoid (SP:6, backwear, suitable for Ranger and Barbarian Oriented Classes and Beast Warriors) Inventory: Crossbow of the Pongcanis (WP:15; earth-, wood-, water-, lightning-, light-elemental), Brown Dragon Girdle (bodywear, power +3; immunity to wood; suitable to rangers, rogues, alchemists and beast warriors), Ratmancer's Cowl (headgear, the wearer's physical attacks deal double damage against vermin), Trickster's Mask of the Gender Swap (artefact, accessory), Health Core (6), Grand Potion (11), Potion, Remedy (6), Phoenix Essence (5), Phoenix Incense (2), Dragon Scales (3), Nostrum (4), Smelling Salts (4), Mead (5), Mulled Wine (4), Venom, Smoke Bomb (3), Skeleton Decoy, Lightning Bomb, Fire Bomb 2x, Water Bomb, Bone, Magic Compass, Pickaxe, Bedroll, Shovel, Puglist's Gloves (Handwear, +2 Power, Immune to Weakened Effect) Jess Islanti (Sisco) Level 19.5 Assassin *Immune to Weakened Effect* *Hastened* Power: 37 (+4) (19+14+2+2) Health: 30/31 (+1) (7+18+5+1) Gold: 598 Equipment: Blohdhurm (WP: 14)(Fire elemental, Permanently Poisoned), Pugilist's Gloves (+2 to Power, immune to the Weakened Effect) Inventory: Mercutio's Dagger of Mugging (WP:5, Mug Ability +5), Diamond of Thoric, 2 Venoms, 2 Meads, Remedy, 3 Grand Potions, Dragonfire Stew (Gives the consumer the encouraged and inspired effects for the duration of one battle), Mulled Wine, Potion, Medal of Honor (Accessory, User Gains Triple Experience) "By the Gods." Flamehead says sternly. "This is some powerful magic. I mistook at least one of your allies, daughter of the north." Gocklo giggles on the ground as King Speros also looks on in awe. "Oh, look! Benji just got fun again. Hehehe. I told you they had some tricks, Heweyrt!"

Kint? Another note or two poofs into existence behind Boomingham, but he's too busy swinging his sword to notice at the moment.

Sorry all, leaving for the nine hour ride home in about 30 minutes so updates this evening, but then we're back to full steam ahead - the holidays are over, but my vacation is not.

OoC: Thank you, Benji! Hopefully properly updated. Please, anyone else who used the Grogmas event, keep me in the loop! Round One Nordic Sparring Match >Benji v. Dion - Damage ([65/2]-9=24) Jess takes Smelling Salts >Jess v. Erik - Damage (42/2=21) The Nords start powerfully, beating back their foes with their very sharp and very warm weapons. The "Enemies" "Ah, you don't have the fire and ice of the North!" Erik the Fire Gut Level 42 Fiery Humanoid *Immune to Ice, Water and Instant Kill* Health: 440/440 SP: 4 Special: Fire Gut - Erik cuts a deep gash across the hero's belly, giving them the burning effect (3 damage a round) the bleeding effect (5 damage a round) and the deadly poisoned effect (10 damage a round). Drops: Nordic Stomach Guard (SP: 3, Immunity to Ice and Water, Bodywear, Suitable for Barbarians, Regulators, and Beast Warriors), Nasal Helmet (SP: 1, Headwear) "It warms my heart to see a good fight... especially when I'm on the winning side." Dion the Burning Heart Level 65 Fiery Humanoid *Deals Fire & Ice Elemental Damage* Health: 264/264 Special: Heart Burn - Dion attacks the hero, dealing 40 damage. The hero's heart is set aflame by the attack, and they receive the fragile and enraged effects. Drops: 75 Gold, Sharp Axe (WP: 14, Fire Ice Elemental) The Party Benji Carvenhall, the Dragonslayer Level 35 Beastwarrior *Natural Respite* *Gains Triple XP* *Immune to Asleep, Blinded, Confused, Fragile, and Weakened Effects* *Encouraged* Power: 51 (35+16) Defense: 9 (3+6) Health: 36/61 (6+34+15+6) Gold: 313 (owes 500 to Alexis Fenral) Equipment: Meduiak (Precision Bow; WP:16; AIM's become HIT's; darkness-, ice-, fire-, wind- elemental), Medal of Glory (accessory, mark of true talent that allows the wearer to gain triple experience from battles, immunity to asleep, blinded, confused, fragile, and weakened effects), Tricorne (headwear, SP:3), Overkill Gloves [borrowed from Galen] (handwear, +1 gold for every point of damage done extra when defeating an enemy), Scaly Skin of the Allanoid (SP:6, backwear, suitable for Ranger and Barbarian Oriented Classes and Beast Warriors) Inventory: Crossbow of the Pongcanis (WP:15; earth-, wood-, water-, lightning-, light-elemental), Brown Dragon Girdle (bodywear, power +3; immunity to wood; suitable to rangers, rogues, alchemists and beast warriors), Ratmancer's Cowl (headgear, the wearer's physical attacks deal double damage against vermin), Trickster's Mask of the Gender Swap (artefact, accessory), Health Core (6), Grand Potion (11), Potion, Remedy (6), Phoenix Essence (5), Phoenix Incense (2), Dragon Scales (3), Nostrum (4), Smelling Salts (4), Mead (5), Mulled Wine (4), Venom, Smoke Bomb (3), Skeleton Decoy, Lightning Bomb, Fire Bomb 2x, Water Bomb, Bone, Magic Compass, Pickaxe, Bedroll, Shovel, Puglist's Gloves (Handwear, +2 Power, Immune to Weakened Effect) Jess Islanti (Sisco) Level 19.5 Assassin *Immune to Weakened Effect* *Hastened* Power: 37 (+4) (19+14+2+2) Health: 5/31 (+1) (7+18+5+1) Gold: 491 Equipment: Blohdhurm (WP: 14)(Fire elemental, Permanently Poisoned), Pugilist's Gloves (+2 to Power, immune to the Weakened Effect) Inventory: Mercutio's Dagger of Mugging (WP:5, Mug Ability +5), Diamond of Thoric, 2 Venoms, 2 Meads, Remedy, 3 Grand Potions, Dragonfire Stew (Gives the consumer the encouraged and inspired effects for the duration of one battle), Mulled Wine, Potion, Medal of Honor (Accessory, User Gains Triple Experience) "Your champions are not so strong!" laughs Flamehead to Heweyrt. Heweyrt just grins confidently back. "I hope you are stronger than your southern brothers," Flamehead says to Tesni.

A day or two off never hurt anyone, Sandy! Enjoy your presents!

"I never said it. Don't need to. She is clearly a woman of honor. What is your name, warrior? You seem a woman of the North." Heweyrt smiles respectfully at Tesni as she and Flamehead step aside to talk. Hoke too hangs back silently. The two warriors step towards Jess and Benji. The "Enemies" Erik the Fire Gut Level 42 Fiery Humanoid *Immune to Ice, Water and Instant Kill* Health: 440/440 SP: 4 Special: Fire Gut - Erik cuts a deep gash across the hero's belly, giving them the burning effect (3 damage a round) the bleeding effect (5 damage a round) and the deadly poisoned effect (10 damage a round). Drops: Nordic Stomach Guard (SP: 3, Immunity to Ice and Water, Bodywear, Suitable for Barbarians, Regulators, and Beast Warriors), Nasal Helmet (SP: 1, Headwear) Dion the Burning Heart Level 65 Fiery Humanoid *Deals Fire & Ice Elemental Damage* Health: 264/264 Special: Heart Burn - Dion attacks the hero, dealing 40 damage. The hero's heart is set aflame by the attack, and they receive the fragile and enraged effects. Drops: 75 Gold, Sharp Axe (WP: 14, Fire Ice Elemental) The Party Benji Carvenhall, the Dragonslayer Level 35 Beastwarrior *Natural Respite* *Gains Triple XP* *Immune to Asleep, Blinded, Confused, Fragile, and Weakened Effects* Power: 51 (35+16) Defense: 9 (3+6) Health: 60/61 (6+34+15+6) Gold: 313 (owes 500 to Alexis Fenral) Equipment: Meduiak (Precision Bow; WP:16; AIM's become HIT's; darkness-, ice-, fire-, wind- elemental), Medal of Glory (accessory, mark of true talent that allows the wearer to gain triple experience from battles, immunity to asleep, blinded, confused, fragile, and weakened effects), Tricorne (headwear, SP:3), Overkill Gloves [borrowed from Galen] (handwear, +1 gold for every point of damage done extra when defeating an enemy), Scaly Skin of the Allanoid (SP:6, backwear, suitable for Ranger and Barbarian Oriented Classes and Beast Warriors) Inventory: Crossbow of the Pongcanis (WP:15; earth-, wood-, water-, lightning-, light-elemental), Kusarigama (WP:10, whip), Brown Dragon Girdle (bodywear, power +3; immunity to wood; suitable to rangers, rogues, alchemists and beast warriors), Ratmancer's Cowl (headgear, the wearer's physical attacks deal double damage against vermin), Trickster's Mask of the Gender Swap (artefact, accessory), Health Core (8), Grand Potion (13), Potion (3), Remedy (5), Phoenix Essence (5), Phoenix Incense (2), Dragon Scales (3), Nostrum (3), Smelling Salts (3), Mead (6), Mulled Wine (4), Venom, Smoke Bomb (3), Skeleton Decoy, Lightning Bomb, Fire Bomb 2x, Water Bomb, Bone, Magic Compass, Pickaxe, Bedroll, Shovel Jess Islanti (Sisco) Level 19.5 Assassin *Immune to Weakened Effect* Power: 37 (+4) (19+14+2+2) Health: 26/31 (+1) (7+18+5+1) Gold: 491 Equipment: Blohdhurm (WP: 14)(Fire elemental, Permanently Poisoned), Pugilist's Gloves (+2 to Power, immune to the Weakened Effect) Inventory: Mercutio's Dagger of Mugging (WP:5, Mug Ability +5), Diamond of Thoric, 2 Venoms, 2 Meads, Smelling Salts, Remedy, 3 Grand Potions, Dragonfire Stew (Gives the consumer the encouraged and inspired effects for the duration of one battle), Mulled Wine, Potion, Medal of Honor (Accessory, User Gains Triple Experience) "Careful to keep it at only sparring, heroes. It'd be bad to start your diplomatic relationships by killing some of the big chief's cronies." NOTE: You are attempting to get the Nords to 'call uncle". If their health drops below 95, they'll tap out. If they reach 0, they may die, and Chief Flamehead might not take it too kindly. If they tap out, you may not loot them.

I sent out all my booze, but I don't think Boomingham has realized that. It's what he'd want to receive, so it's what he sends. And, from this region of the globe, Merry Christmas all!! Or Happy Holidays! Good cheer? To all a good night? Whatever suits your pleasure, I hope y'all have a lovely few days. I'll probably not update too much in the next 48 hours either, but come the 26th I expect posts every 24 hours again, questees.

Boomingham dictates, Barty scribbles fiercely and puts the appropriate gifts into each envelope. Atramor Gibbin- Glad to hear no one has killed you yet - means I still get a shot at it. That's quite a list of accomplishments you've racked up. I've just been schlepping round Eubric and Uland, not doing much of anything. It's back to errands for old Boomingham, it seems. But fearsome errands all the same. Oh, yeah, and the Wolfgang. The title is from Patricia for killing three of their generals. Fighting some of their lower downs right now, actually. Not too challenging, as you might imagine. Keep Nyx alive, or I'll actually kill you. There are two meads enclosed. Share one with the prettiest fire mage you can find. Much love this season, Lord Lawrence Boomingham, Slayer of Bluehood and Steerpike, King of the Lost Kingdom, A Hero Worth Something Hoke Abelsword- Glad to hear you're alive and well. The chains look uncomfortable, but what the Hel, I'm sure the sentiments there. I have no fear for your safety. You were more than competent when last I saw you, and it seems we heroes only go onward and upwards. Here are some drinks, on me. To loosen you up for Grogmas. Take it easy, my friend. A mead and tonic enclosed. -Lord Lawrence Boomingham, Slayer of the Blu- "I don't have time to write it out every time," sniffs Barty. Gurnam the Sharkling- It's your old friend and potential business partner, Lord Lawrence Boomingham. We met a while back. I'm sure a clever Sharkling such as yourself would remember. I have a favor to ask, and should you repay it, I'll of course be in your debt. There are two men I'd like you to track down for me, both within Eubric. The first is named Natnail. He frequents pubs, you can find him. The second goes by J. Smith. I doubt it's a real name. Please find him as well. Tell me where they are, and tell them that Lord Lawrence Boomingham is coming for them. As a token of my appreciation and trust, here are two meads for the holiday. -Boomingham "Ah, what the Hel, one more." Masson, I haven't forgotten who and what you are. -Lord Lawrence Boomingham

"Glad to hear it!" says Boomingham as he gears up to swing, but then Barty is at his ear. "Another note for you. From Atramor. Sent a sword." "Send him a mead, tell him I hope it gives him the courage to fight those who are clearly his superiors, though gods know he hardly needs it." "He has your girl with him." "Not the best time." Boomingham glances at Pinkmenia. "Alright. Three notes, I'll dictate. We'll make them quick. This is giving you the moment to run, little lady."

The Warrior Priest almost allows a smile to ghost across his lips. "Very well, m'lady. Please, remain behind with Prince David and I for prayer. We will send you to meet your friends at..." "We'll be crossing the river later today, near evening. I'll have Gocklo swing by and pick her up before then. Have fun, Nerwen." The heroes leave the Temple, King Speros clearly fuming. Nerwen remains behind. "Already one of your numbers has strayed. Be careful, heroes. If you don't stand strong, the cold will kill you. You stay together for warmth." "If you stay too frozen, the winds will snap you in half." "Yeah yeah," he flicks his hand dismissively. "Your fancy words don't mean so much when your heroes betray you, Heweyrt. Raguel will have his hooks in her next time you see her, mark my words. No resolution." Nearby, the heroes hear the clatter of steel. For the first time they see King Speros break into a thin smile. It is not an attractive feature on his face. "The Nords are bored, heroes. Fighting once again. Do you want to meet them?" The heroes round the corner and come to a practice yard, covered in a thin snow, now turning to mud as feet whirl through it. Steel cries on steel. The axe swipes down and draws blood. It appears, even in sparring, the Nords do not use dulled blades. There is a low grumble, and the heroes turn their head as a man leads an enormous polar bear towards them. Flames roar out of the man's helmet, cracking briskly in the cool air. He raises a hand in greeting to King Speros and Heweyrt, and raises an eyebrow at Gocklo and the heroes. "Hello Speros the King. Hello, Heweyrt the Ambassador. Are these your champions from the South?" The Nords turns to them. "They do not seem that tough. You should have hired Nords." "Actions over words," Heweyrt says tapping his nose and a displaying a toothy grin. The Nord does not smile back. He turns to the heroes. "I am Belvin Byrne, Chief of the Fire Nords, known as the Flame-head. This is my polar bear, Iorek." Iorek growls. "Heweyrt the Ambassador is right. I have heard only of your deeds. Words are wind to the Nords. We are a people of actions. Will you prove your worth to me and Iorek?" The two Nords behind the Chief stop fighting and turn to face the heroes. "These are two of my best men. Can you best them in combat?"

Boomingham drags himself off the floor again and smiles merrily. "Well hello again, everybody! How was leading the party, Ellaria? She do well, Hybros?" "She hardly missed you," Barty says cheekily. "Ah, and you're back. Finish checking up on our little friend?" "Yes. A letter came for you while you were drooling on the floor." Barty holds up the Chains of the Pongcanis Champion (Artifact, Bodywearer, Enemy SP ignored if the wearer is in the front row, user's SP ignored in the backrow, cannot be removed in combat) and the letter from Hoke. Boomingham skims the note. "Ah, my old apprentice Hoke. Hopefully he's good as well. See if I've got anything to send back to him." Boomingham tosses his bag to Barty, and then turns back to the enemies at hand. "Ah, Pinkmenia, you're still around. That's... unfortunate. Listen, little lady, this is your last chance before I stop playing and start getting serious. Your wolf pal seems pretty committed, and the Changeling is a creature of Hel, but you... well, this is your final chance to walk away." Boomingham swings at Pinkemia at the front row, unless she flees in which case he swings Lupine from the front row.

I was going to write to Baba as well, but I think Thothwick already covered it.

OoC: I will update the inventories very shortly (probably after this conversation) but thank you for keeping me in the loop - it makes my job much easier. "You show your ignorance, hero. It is not racism, it is the truth. The Orcs exist through mortal failings, not through the failings of Ennoc. They tried to eradicate us, just as the demons of Zoot do, but we drove them back at great cost. If the Light wavers, the Darkness will seize the opportunity to destroy us all. Raising them to our level will only make them more of a threat. They cannot learn and they cannot forgive, and so we must not forgive or forget. We must defend the Light. Do you think, if they had won, you would stand here now. You speak from privilege, but do not recognize the cost that was paid to afford you your life as you know it now. You are bathed in the righteous Light, yet you are blind to it. It is our duty to free you from that blindness. I do not hate you for your words, only pity you." Heweyrt makes eye contact with Benji and carefully and subtly shakes his head - no. King Speros laughs gruffly and meanly under his breathe, but says nothing. Prince David only looks at the Warrior Priest with awe.

I'd be willing to run a few rounds.

Cutcobra (and others) there is one hero I'm in particular considering for 92 (one who is a particular friend of Ella's) but other than that I'd consider anyone. It is not specifically for Sorrow, Karie and Arthur, so don't be afraid of signing up.