Zepher

"I thought I had asked you to find me a Paladin," the Warrior Priest says, turning to Heweyrt. Heweyrt shrugs. "My little friend here was in charge of hiring." Gocklo laughs rascally. "Hehehe, no Paladins wanted to come to meet you, Warrior Priest. I chose a competent team." The Warrior Priest ignores Gocklo. He looks at Hoke, Tesni, and Nerwen. "You all look capable of joining the ranks of the Paladin Order. What has dissuaded you in the past? The Paladin Order is an old and powerful order, and we are well respected all over Olegia." "Ennoc is a kind God. I trust him to look after the light. Sometimes we mortals can see only darkness, but Ennoc is always a guide, even when we do not see his hand. It is important that the King know the path for his people." "It would look good if our representatives had a Paladin among them. The elf has the best credentials, there's no doubt, but I'd be willing to accept any of those capable. Are any of you three willing to begin your service to the righteous Light? It is not ideal, but I can train you for the next few hours and introduce you to your guardian angel. You will at least be a light, as Ennoc will know that you have chosen the path of the righteous. Orcs will cower and humans will be thankful to you. I like someone to carry my seal, and it can go to no one but a paladin." Raguel holds out a seal. Seal of the Warrior Priest(ess) (Accessory, 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).

"Wrestle a bear, huh?" The eye-patched king smiles grimly. "Make sure you tell Chief Belvin Flame-head that when you meet him. I'm sure he'll be interested to put your skills to the test." The heroes find themselves outside of a building, once wooden, now with piles of stone piled outside. "The young Prince has... recently diverted some of the funds from the bridge and started to rebuild the temple. Come, I'll introduce you to him and his warrior priest." General Hamilton and the troops that have been escorting the heroes stop. "I fear this is where we must part way, for the time being, heroes. I must go prepare another dispatch to the other shore - the raids make our men tired, and we need reinforcements constantly. I will be heading over myself to help relieve General Mint of the Four Boulder Kingdom." "Hm, I'm make sure to send the heroes your way. I think it would be best if they met Prince Speros and say the Orcish raids for themselves. Perhaps Hoke will be able to tell what tribe they're from, and tell us who to punish." Heweyrt taps his nose as if sharing a secret, Hamilton gives a salute, and King Speros leads the heroes into the temple. Inside it is musky and serene. There is only quiet murmuring in far corners. Two figures stand at the center alter - one raised above the other, lecturing. "...and the Lord of Light will vanquish all those who fight him. His way is the only right way. He cannot be swayed, his path is straight. Every soul with a Light in the heart is a beacon in the darkness where the blind and frightened people can gather. Give us the power of the Light to see through the darkness- to see it for what it really is, and give us the power to resist it. The Light that reveals everything will shine forever." "The Light that reveals everything will shine forever." King Speros clears his throat. "Forgive me for interrupting," he says bluntly and loudly. The two figures turn to look at him. "These are the heroes that Heweyrt hired to assist us." "Ah, welcome heroes. I am King David." The man offers his hand. "Prince," reminds King Speroes sharply. "Your father is not dead yet." "I pray for his return every day." "Maybe it would be prudent to finally take action." Heweyrt lays a reassuring arm on King Speros' shoulder. "When the bridge is complete, and we are able to strengthen our relationship with the orcs, then we can negotiate for his freedom." "I fear the job won't be done without him." The man on the alter clears his throat. "Peace, King Arthur Speros, King David Lynch. You are both instruments of the Light." King Speroes snorts, but the Warrior Priest continues. "Welcome, heroes. I understand that you are here to ward off the darkness these evil orc raiders present us. They are the darkness, we are the light. Which of you is a champion of the Light?" He appraises the heroes, waiting for a response.

Oh no! I'm KO'd, how am I to send a letter?!

Sorry all, I know 88 is off to a slow start. My quests tend to be confusing, I'm aware, so I'm trying to introduce the characters one at a time so you don't get too lost. They also can keep telling you all the problems that are going on.

"I told you I'd take you shopping after you met with everyone," chuckles Heweyrt. "His highness has more to do than accompany you shopping." "You're a daughter of the north? Good, perhaps you will be able to bring peace between the Nords and the people of this city. I'm sure Heweyrt has explained that I was forced to bring the Fire Nords along with me when I came to oversee the Bridge. I don't like it, but since Prince David took over..." there is a silence. "He is young for rule, and distracted by things of another world. Damn that Warrior Priest and his Ennoc. A prince should be leading the people, not cowering in a temple all day and all night. My own son is across the river, defending the bridge from that side. That's a true leader." "Be careful what you say about our Prince," Hamilton warns, and Agnuy the archer places his hand on his crossbow. King Speros gives them a baleful look. "I've spoken nothing but the truth." "We are going to meet the young Prince now. Perhaps you'll accompany us?" "To the temple, at least." "I don't mince words, m'lady. I hope to find you to be loyal friends. But some people come North with the expectations that they can be friends with everyone. Survival is difficult here, and sometimes saving one friend means failing another." The King nods to Benji. The doors to the city swing open and Heweyrt leads his horse through them. King Speros and Hamilton continue alongside the heroes. The city is cold and the houses are squat, but people hustle and bustle back and forth. "I assume the Prince is in the temple now?" "As always." Heweyrt leads the way.

OoC: Same action. Barty bursts quietly into existence and nudges Boomingham gently.

OoC: Not a very chatty group we've got here. "Oh, I think you and I are going to be great friends, lady! Hehe!!" The heroes continue their trek towards the city, and eventually, after a few flurries of snow, they walk through a small pass and come up against a huge wooden wall. A few soldiers mill around, some in Red Lizard armor, but a few in bulkier stuff. Most of those wearing heavier armor have a dog near them. The man on the horse glances over at the heroes. "Welcome back, Heweyrt," he says in a gravelly voice. "Are these the heroes?" "They are indeed, your highness!" "I am King Speros of the Four Boulder Kingdom," the man says. "Welcome to the north. It is a harsh land. Especially in the winter. Are you prepared?"

OoC: Go with Sandy's battle order! I don't make them when I'm KO'd. That doesn't make sense. If Boomingham happens to get up, he repeats his action.

Erm, I don't think so. It was originally immune to magic, so physical healing still works for sure.

"It's not as easy as simply contacting the leaders. There are four clans, many of which don't get along with each other, though they are not openly hostile. They rarely agree on things, and often meeting with humans is considered to be a sign of weakness. Within each of those four clans there are numerous leaders and advisors - it is rarely one Orc in charge. The clans will not meet with each other, and often will not meet one on one with us either." "We have found that the best strategy thus far, as Hamilton said earlier, is fending off attacks that come our way, and not retaliating. It is the only way that we know we are punishing solely the Orcs responsible for the attack. This has angered some of the higher up Generals and I know that Prince Speros finds it particularly repulsive, but so far I have gotten everyone to agree to that strategy.

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), 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), Medal of Glory (Artefact/Accessory - Mark of true talent that allows the wearer to gain triple experience from battles), 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, 2x 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 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: 35/61 (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 (14), 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 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 Nerwen Calmcacil (played by Chromeknight) Level 23.66 Shaman *Immune to Sealed* *Restoration* Power bonus: 0 Defense: 3 (3(Robe of the Archmage) Health: 39/39 (Base Cleric 9 +Level bonus 22 +Shaman Bonus 9) Ether: 29/34 (Base Cleric 5 +Level bonus 22 +Shaman Bonus 1 +5(Robe of the Archmage)) Gold: 295 Equipment: Magical Staff (WP: 15; Water-, Darkness-elemental; staff), Robe of the Archmagi (SP:3; Max Ether +5; Immune to Sealed; bodywear), Barbarian’s Boots (Restoration; footwear) Inventory: Mourning Star (WP: 10; Fire-elemental; inflicts Fragile-effect; mace), Grogmas Handcannon (WP:12 + the number of the round of battle), 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) • White Cloak (Max HP +3; backwear), Crocodile Handbag (Max Ether +2; Immune to Water; accessory) • Opal, Topaz, Diamond, Garnet, Sapphire, Emerald • Scroll of Sleep, Scroll of Sealing, Scroll of Blindness, Scroll of Weakening, Scroll of Fragile, Scroll of Confusion • Grand Tonics (3), Potions (3), Elixirs (3), Remedies (5), Potion, Phoenix Essences (2), Phoenix Incense, Tiger Balm, Neutralizers (2), Essence of Sorrow (50% assassination chance on non-immune target), Venom, 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), Bright Polish, Double Rainbow, Dragon Scales (2), Mead (2), Mulled Wine (2) • Shovel, Bedroll, Magnifying Glass 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: 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, 4 Grand Potions, Dragonfire Stew (Gives the consumer the encouraged and inspired effects for the duration of one battle), Mulled Wine, Potion Gocklo *Immune to Hexed* *Cannot Mimic Blessed* Male kobold Mime Level 52.2 Power Bonus: 0 Health: 53/53 Ether: 53/53 Equipment: Witchbane (WP: 20, deals badly poisoned, dagger), Loincloth (Immune to Hexed) Inventory: Ruby, Deci (Throwing Knife, WP: 14), Nona (Throwing Knife, WP: 14), Morta (Throwing Knife, WP: 14) "Both. The Orcs have been raiding the bridge on their side since it began, but I'll be honest and say that I don't know one clan from another as far as the Orcs go. I just fight the Orcs that attack us, and don't fight any of the others." "The Nords haven't actually attacked the bridge, but they lurk around. Truth be told I like them less than the Orcs. I'm willing to move forward with relations if the Orcs are - it's been enough generations since the war as far I'm concerned - but the Nords seem to be itching for a fight now." "The Orc political system is a little dicey. I have tried to meet with their leaders numerous times, but getting things done is very difficult. Like I said, I believe in my heart that the people of this land want to move forward, collectively, but there are a few loud individuals who are very good at stopping the process. From what I've gathered, most of the clans are in favor of the bridge." "Yeah, no shit they are. They're just waiting to charge over it and tryn' take our land again." "Don't say that, Agnuy. We don't know that." "'Cept last time they did it." "Enough. Keep your tongue in check. That's an order." Hamilton turns to Heweyrt. "My apologies, Ambassador." "Not a problem." Heweyrt grins at the heroes. "Funnily enough, the Orcs who are opposed to the bridge are scared of a similar thing. They think we're going to stream over and try to slaughter them. Neither side has got any proof of animosity from each other, and yet they make it up!" "The Paladins are an old and backwards order. And it's not so much a feather in my cap so much as seeing the bridge built. I work very much like Heroica, as I explained, accept that I find my own projects instead of waiting for them to come to me, and I offer the service of my brain, not my brawn. King Valentino conceptualized the bridge, I joined the project much more recently, facilitating funds and relations." "Absolutely. We're on our way to Carn right now. It's a big enough city that there's a market. I'll direct you there once you've met with David and the others." "Hehe, I found a coin or two in their pockets that you heroes missed, but I tossed them overboard along with the bodies. I'm not interested in gold. Too boring. So boring. Doesn't make life any more fun."

OoC: Sorry, same battle order until I say otherwise. "Yeah, it's because they don't try to change their luck. Stealing and joining the wolfgang are dead ends. Begging is a dead end. There is work in kitchens, as tailors, as blacksmiths. Buy a horse, hit the road. Go to R'Klif. They need new citizens and would be willing to teach a trade, I'm sure. If your circumstances aren't good, change them. My job is to help you get going, not to lead you to the water."

"No, actually. That's what Gocklo's for." "I can protect Heweyrt. He's not much of a fighter, so he won't be going to too many dangerous places hehe." "I need people I can trust to keep the primary objective in mind. I can't be everywhere at once. I want people who have good in their hearts to make tough calls while I'm not nearby. The people of this land, collectively, are moving forward. That warms my heart. Some people in the land are trying to hold it back. They are not evil or angry, they just fail to see the big picture. I'm simply trying to help the majority along without harming the minority in the process."

"She won't be going anywhere, unless she makes up her mind quick." Boomingham towers over the little girl. "I'm giving you a simple offer. You die a criminal, or you live to improve your lot the way that everyone does. Go better yourself. There is work a-plenty. The city is rough, but so is life. There isn't a quick fix." Boomingham repeats his attack. "Dek'ra, that changeling is a monstrous little thing. Filling it's time with whatever... filling your time is the only thing that any of us are doing it. A wasted life, and a wasted life that hurts others at that. The least forgivable of the batch. Once the girl falls or flees, I'm coming after you, bucko." Boomingham points at the Changeling and grinds his teeth.

"We're going to the capitol now, so I think it would probably be best to leave you to your own devices to learn the ins and outs of each faction. Just in case I taint your opinion. We are going right now to meet with Prince David and his Warrior Priest, and King Speros and the Fire Nords are both in the city, so you'll get to meet with them as well. As for what I want you to do... a number of things may arise, I'm not sure quite what will happen yet. The most important thing to do, in my mind, is to prevent any conflict, particularly conflict that will stop the bridge's construction. I would like the bridge project to continue, and if that fails, than I will continue you failures. That's your system, isn't it?" The heroes realize, also, that they're riding with some of the troops of Red Lizard, along with General Hamilton, a high ranking commander. They are, of course, free to ask them any questions as well.

The row boat drifts ashore... OoC: I sadly due to some stupidity on my own part, have been separated from my SD card until Saturday. I have all the pictures I need... save for some of the little icon's for some of the characters. So, bear with me. The man in the cape and scarf walks to greet the heroes as they step one by one off the small rowboat. The last member off is Gocklo, who shakes hands with the grinning stranger. "Heroes, this man is Heweyrt. He's one of my friends and also one of my friends." The kobold glances over the party and hesitates only for a second before leaning over to his friend and whispering too loudly: "They're an acceptable enough batch. No shining stars, but they'll at least be able to fight. Not as well as me, of course." He then grins again at the group. The man laughs and keep grinning his wide smile. His teeth are perfect, immaculate. "It's a pleasure to meet you, heroes! I am Heweyrt. I'm an ambassador, sort of. Perhaps political advisor would be a more correct term, as I don't really represent anyone but my own ideals." He smiles. "I'm actually rather like you in a different regard. I've never been much of a fighter, so I travel around and make changes by giving people in high places good advice. You affect change with brawn and skill, I with my brain." He clears his throat. A chilling wind whips by. The armored man behind him steps forward. "General Hamilton of the Red Lizard Kingdom. I'm in charge of the envoy that will be taking you back to Carn, our capitol." "Ah, yes, these are some lovely troops of the Red Lizard Kingdom. They've come to greet you, though this isn't actually their land. The coast belongs to the Kingdom of the Four Boulders Kingdom. Here's a map." "Sir, we have a lot of traveling to do. Perhaps you and the heroes can talk on horseback?" "Of course. I take it you can all ride?" The heroes saddle up and begin to trek across the snow covered rocky terrain. "So, I take it Gocklo briefed you as best as he could, but I'm sure he didn't know everything I do. I have been up here for the last year or so trying to get this bridge project off the ground. It would be a wonderful way to stimulate trade and understanding between the Orcs and High Kingdoms. Bury the nasty wounds of the war for good. Of course, the Orcs are agitated about it, but when are they not." Heweyrt shrugs, but his smile never leaves his face. "Change is hard." "It's what's transpiring on this side of the bridge that actually has been worrying me, however. There's a whole mess of political problems. One of the more powerful and vicious Orc clans captured King Valentino of the Red Lizard Kingdom a few months back. They refuse to exchange him for anything - it seems a new leader has taken over there since their leader was captured by the Fire Nords. Anyway, she's acting all tough because she's new, so she's not listening to reason." "Meanwhile, Prince David has taken over the Red Lizard Kingdom. He's a nice enough boy, but he's devote to Ennoc." Heweyrt scoffs. "Harmless alone, but he's gotten himself a Paladin Warrior Priest as an advisor, from your island, actually. As you may or may not know, Paladins and Orcs don't get along too well. I'm worried that the Warrior Priest may attempt to sway the boy towards invasion." Heweyrt licks his lips. "There's even more, however. The Fire Nords are in Carn as well, negotiating to be 'protectors of the bridge'. It's really just a silly title and they're just trying to make back some of the gold they'll be losing. The bridge will make a lot of ship travel unnecessary and the Fire Nords will have fewer people to pillage. The title might be worth it, however, if King Speros of Four Boulders can add a clause to the negotiation that will prevent the Fire Nords from raiding their coasts. He's staying in Carn to oversee the construction of the bridge. He's poured enough gold into the process that it's understandable, but he's housing the Fire Nords there during their talks, and the people are scared and angry. It puts Prince David in a poor position." Heweyrt turns to look at the heroes. "Political turmoil, am I right? Understand why I might want some extra swords around that I have control over?" OoC: Lots, I know. Ask all the questions you need!

Update in a few hours, 88ers! I gotta go an errand or two. Feel free to roleplay the rowboat a little, but be ready to enter the frigid northern High Kingdoms very shortly. :grin: I'm excited to get you back.

You'll have to direct the complaint at Pie and I, really. I, at least, did think it was interesting. I trust Scuba and MDM to both be fair and level-headed and keep it in character. I can understand some characters disliking rogues keeping all the gold they get. If it had gone on much longer we would have stopped it, but really using up a day for a page or two of RPing is okay in my book.

We'll be moving the quest along as soon as CMP gets back online.

"We don't need it, little man," says Boomingham as he swings his sword again. "It looks like our foes at the Wolfgang aren't too strong." Boomingham turns back to Pinkmenia. "Sounds like a common story, little lady. What do you think will happen to the people in Tritech who get in trouble for losing this? Suppose they end up on the streets too, and imagine how much time and gold they've already shoveled into the project. Little miss glasses wouldn't be a happy camper, I'm sure." He shrugs. "Can't say I blame you for trying to change your luck. Just think you tossed in with the wrong group. I generally give my enemies a chance to switch things up in their life, but I generally don't find that it does much of anything. So, if you'd like to switch sides and make the right choice, maybe get on Tritech's good side, then now's the time." Boomingham jerks his head to look at the Changeling. "Don't even know what the Hel you are, but I know I don't like it. And I'm not that heavy. Suck in that gut a little. How'd you get to be so friendly with the wolves?" Same Battle Order

Maybe we should have let Sandy be the PL. Can't seem to get my head on straight. Battle Order Boomingham Hybros Hybros Dek'ra Ellaria

Boomingham pats his belly as he drags himself off of the floor. He picks back up his sword and gives it a swing or two. "Ah, back at it. Thank you, dear Ellaria. And like, the mimicking fellow is poking fun at the little fellow now. Much better." Boomingham smiles. "So, tell me Pinky, how'd a pretty girl like you end up in the Wolfgang?" Boomingham launches another attack at Pinkmenia from the front row.

"Hehehe," says Gocklo as he scotches some of the downed Viking bodies. "I like this captain. The house system is broken. It will have to go sooner or later. All my friends say so! Too old, too old." The little fellow glances up at Guts, and then at Hoke and Nerwen. "I get it now! He just tries to fight everyone. Hehehe. Big tough man. Very funny!"

OoC: I realize I'm running the round extremely early but I feel bad making Pie do them all, and I'll be busy later in the day, and we're only waiting on one action. CJP, you're right on all accounts and I have added the correct results into this round. Round Eight of Massive Magpie Mix-up >Hoke v. Gombar - Hit ([4+29+4]*2*2=148 Damage) Alexandre v. Whelp I - Damage (20-14=6) Thormanil v. Ognar - Critical Hit (Takes to the Air) Guts v. Gombar - Shield (Ravage: [32*2+28]*2*2=368 Damage Dealt All Enemies (SP varying, Gombar Fragile), Sailor F, Whelp J, and Whelp I KO'd, 225 Gold Gained, Back to Full Health) Guts v. Gombar - Steal (50 Gold stolen, Guts gets an extra turn next round) Alexis v. Gombar - Special Damage (Sealed, No Effect) >Tesni v. Ognar - Shield (([20*4]+32)*2*2=448, KO) Jess v. Viking Whelp J Sailor I - Damage (30-3=27, KO) Dyric v. Ognar - Shield (5, 1: Sailor I Assassinated, 105 Gold Gained) >Benji v. Sailor F Ognar - Damage (75/2-[9+3]=25 Damage, KO'd) Zasises v. Gombar Ognar - Deflect Counter (75-3=72 Damage, KO'd) Nerwen heals Hoke - Shield (Blood Ritual: 159 Health Sapped, Non-KO'd Party to perfect health) Capt v. Gombar Ognar - Special Damage (CHARGE) >Gocklo v. Gombar Ognar - Special Damage (A Hairy Situation, Gocklo Slowed and Bound) Olmstyr gets back on ship Haldor v. Sailor I - Meditate (+1 ether) Illdria poisoned - (1 damage) Ognar summons Sailor K Guts slices through a majority of the remaining crew, while Tesni lands a fatal blow to the big belly and some intestines and the like spill out. Sadly, with Ognar now unimpeded, his fighting becomes unpredictable, and he spins his sword wildly dropping party members and Magpie Crew Memeber left and right. "Ah, come on!" "MY BEARD FEARS NOT DEATH!" Enemies Warlord Ognar the Hairy Level 75 Icy Humanoid Health: 37/3060 Defense: 20 Special I: CHARGE! - Ognar leads his remaining forces into a fierce charge. Each enemy will deal an additional free hit at the end of the current round. Special II: A Hairy Situation – Ognar entangles the hero in his glorious beard, causing them to be Bound and Slowed until Ognar is defeated. Use when CHARGE! Is already in effect. Passive Special: Warlord – Ognar will call an additional random viking to combat at the end of every round; a Whelp, a Sailor, or a Pillager. Drops: 100 gold, Ognar’s Beard (Suitable for men, +8 power, gives the wearer the Enraged effect, headwear), Warblade (WP: 20, greatsword), Immune to all negative effects and instant kill. Viking Sailor K Level 30 Aquatic Humanoid Health: 612/612 Special: Man Overboard – Viking Sailor knocks the hero off the ship, dealing 30 water-elemental damage ignoring row and defense. The hero is removed from combat, and must take the duration of the next round to return. Drops: Mulled Wine Party Hoke Ablesword The Krakenwhacker and Titan Smiter (UsernameMDM) *Party Leader* Level 29 Mystic Knight *Immune to Darkness, Fragile, Weakened, Sealed, and Confused* *Encouraged* Power Bonus: 8 Defense: 25 Health: 48/48 Ether: 23/29 Gold: 278 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), 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), Medal of Glory (Artefact/Accessory - Mark of true talent that allows the wearer to gain triple experience from battles), 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, 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 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: 263 (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 (14), Potion (2), Remedy (5), Phoenix Essence (5), Phoenix Incense (2), Dragon Scales (3), Nostrum (3), Smelling Salts (3), Mead (5), Mulled Wine (3), Venom, Smoke Bomb (3), Skeleton Decoy, Lightning Bomb, Fire Bomb 2x, Water Bomb, Bone, Magic Compass, Pickaxe, Bedroll, Shovel Tesni Hightribe, Level 32 2/4 Beserker *Restoration* *Immune to Afraid* *Encouraged* Power: 59 Power Bonus: 0 Defense: 14 Health: 51/51 Gold: 1426 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, 2 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) Nerwen Calmcacil (played by Chromeknight) Level 23.33 Shaman *Immune to Sealed* *Restoration* *Encouraged* Power bonus: 0 Defense: 3 (3(Robe of the Archmage) Health: 39/39 (Base Cleric 9 +Level bonus 22 +Shaman Bonus 9) Ether: 29/34 (Base Cleric 5 +Level bonus 22 +Shaman Bonus 1 +5(Robe of the Archmage)) Gold: 245 Equipment: Magical Staff (WP: 15; Water-, Darkness-elemental; staff), Robe of the Archmagi (SP:3; Max Ether +5; Immune to Sealed; bodywear), Barbarian’s Boots (Restoration; footwear) Inventory: Mourning Star (WP: 10; Fire-elemental; inflicts Fragile-effect; mace), Grogmas Handcannon (WP:12 + the number of the round of battle), 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) • White Cloak (Max HP +3; backwear), Crocodile Handbag (Max Ether +2; Immune to Water; accessory) • Opal, Topaz, Diamond, Garnet, Sapphire, Emerald • Scroll of Sleep, Scroll of Sealing, Scroll of Blindness, Scroll of Weakening, Scroll of Fragile, Scroll of Confusion • Grand Tonics (3), Potions (3), Elixirs (3), Remedies (5), Potion, Phoenix Essences (2), Phoenix Incense, Tiger Balm, Neutralizers (2), Essence of Sorrow (50% assassination chance on non-immune target), Venom, 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), Bright Polish, Double Rainbow, Dragon Scales (2), Mead • Shovel, Bedroll, Magnifying Glass Jess Islanti (Sisco) Level 19.5 Assassin *Immune to Weakened Effect* *KO'd* Power: 37 (+4) (19+14+2+2) Health: 0/31 (+1) (7+18+5+1) Gold: 441 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, Mead, Smelling Salts, Remedy, 4 Grand Potions, Dragonfire Stew (Gives the consumer the encouraged and inspired effects for the duration of one battle) Gocklo *Immune to Hexed* *Cannot Mimic Blessed* *Encouraged* *Slowed* *Bound* Male kobold Mime Level 52 Power Bonus: 0 Health: 53/53 Ether: 53/53 Equipment: Witchbane (WP: 20, deals badly poisoned, dagger), Loincloth (Immune to Hexed) Inventory: Ruby, Deci (Throwing Knife, WP: 14), Nona (Throwing Knife, WP: 14), Morta (Throwing Knife, WP: 14) Guts Holla (Scubacarrot) *Immune to Weakened, Fragile, Asleep, Confused and Blinded* *Immune to all elements* *Encouraged* *Second Party Leader* 44 year old male human Raider Level 28.33 Power Bonus: +4 Health: 42/42 Defense: 4 Gold: 1005 Equipment: Lifestealer (WP: 32, Ice, Darkness, Light, attacks restore 3 health, dagger), Dancing Shoes (Wearer dances well, in the turn after a miss is rolled, the wearer can act twice. +Immunity to Asleep, Confused, Fragile, Weakened and Blinded, + Immunity to Darkness, Light, Fire, Air, Earth, Wood, Lightningand Ice Elemental Damage, footwear), Pugilist's Gloves (2+ Power, Immune to Weakened, handwear), Crocodile Armour (+4 Defense +Immunity to Water Magic, bodywear) Inventory: Stag Antlers (WP:10, Intimidation, halberd), Twin Sai (WP: 10, dual strike, dagger), 2x Ambrosia 7x Mead, 6x Smelling Salts, 7x Nostrum, 22x Grand Potion, 4x Health Core, 2x Elixir, 1x Grand Tonic, 1x Ether Core, 14x Remedy, 5x Smoke Bomb, 4x Deadly Venom, 2x Neutralizer, Shovel, Telescope, Magic Compass, Magnifying Glass, Pickaxe, Bedroll, 4x Mythril Shard, Metasimian Ale, 5x Grating Stone, Voucher to the Guild of Invision (Good for one lesson in Alchemy), Chauncey's Diamond Lamp of Summoning (Summons ???), Clippard's Poison (When applied to a weapon, all damage dealt will instantly KO enemies unless they are immune to poison, deadly poison, or sudden death. Can be applied 3 more times), Crimson Serum (Grants Mutated Effect for one battle.) Copy of the Eubric Herald (Grants transcended and inspired effects for one battle), 3x Pumpkin Bomb Thormanil Nihai, Dragonslayer (Played by swils) and Arx the Hatchling *Immune to Darkness, Wood, Asleep, Confused, Fragile, Weakened, Blinded, Bound, and Slowed* *Encouraged* Level 30.5 Dragoon Power Bonus: +1 Defense: 8 Health: 53/53 Gold: 1283 Equipment: Dragonsbane Lance (WP: 20, triple damage to enemies with 'Dragon' in their name, lance), Wooden Shield (SP:5, Null Wood), Bright Armor (SP: 3, Null Darkness), Winged Sandals (Wearer is immune to bound, slowed, asleep, confused, fragile, weakened, and blinded effects)., Medal of Glory (Wearer gains triple experience, accessory) Inventory: Weapons & Shields: Gladiator Trident (WP: 11, Spear, causes bleeding effect), Wyvern's Tailblade (WP: 12, Greatsword, suitable for Barbarians & Knights), Thundering Totem (WP:9, lightning, axe), Tongue on a Stick (WP:1, Miss -> "Aim"), Frozen Saber (WP: 9, longsword, Stuns enemies) Artefacts: Trickster's Mask of the Gender Swap (Accessory), Trickster's Mask of the Weredog (Accessory), Trickster's Mask of the Elf(Accessory), Fighter’s Boots(Footwear, +10 damage to melee attacks. Suitable for QMs only), Sticky Gloves (Increases the amount of gold stolen by 50% (rounded up)), Aqua Gear (Wearer deals and is immune to water elemental damage) Consumables: Smelling Salts(1), Nostrum (1), Deadly Venom(2), Phoenix Essence(2), Remedy(5), Jinxy Juice(1) (Q35), Fire Bomb(2), Milk(1), Potion(2), Venom(3), Lightning Bomb, Grand Potion(2), Smoke Bomb(1), Ice Bomb(1), Bones(3), Water Bombs(5), Mead(1), Tiger Balm(1), Neutralizer (1), Aquamarine, Emerald, Garnet, Opal, Ruby, Sapphire, Diamond, Amethyst. Misc.: Pickaxe, Shovel, Amethyst, Grating Stone, Teleportapple Haldor Skovgaard (Played by Scorpiox) *Immune to Stunned, Fragile, and Blinded* *Encouraged* 34 year old male human Nord Shaman Level 29 Power Bonus: +4 Defense: 7 Health: 48/48 Ether: 38/38 Gold: 96 Equipment: Zoot er Isen (WP: 15, Ice and Light Elemental) Ethereal Cloak (SP: 2, +4 Ether, Protects from Blindness), Scarlet Hood (+4 Power, Protects from Stunning), Heavy Armour (SP: 5, Protects from Fragility) Weapons: Heavy Metal Rod (WP: 12, Water Elemental), Dualis Sceptres (WP: 13, darkness-elemental, Dual-Striking), Bear Claw Gloves (WP: 8, SP: 2) Artefacts: Pugilist's Gloves (+2 Power, Protects from Weakening), Gladiator's Helmet (SP: 3) (x2) Consumables: Health Core (x2), Potion (x4), Remedy (x6), Venom, Tonic, Grand Tonic (x2), Ether Core, Smelling Salts, Mead, Phoenix Esscence, Grating Stone. Inventory: Scutum Shield (SP: 9), Shovel, Pickaxe, Bedroll, Scroll of Sealing, Scroll of Sleep Alexis Fenral (Masked Builder) *Immune to Fragile and Blinded* *Counterstriking* *Encouraged* 20 year old female elven Harlot Level 35.5 Power Bonus: 0 Defense: 3 Health: 64/64 Gold: 697 GP: 9 Equipment: Cat-o'-Nine-Tails (WP: 20, damage divided between all enemies, Suitable For Rouges), Lieutenant's Helmet (SP:3, protects from fragile), Ring of Sight (protects fromblinded), Counterstrike Gloves 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), Quickdraw Quiver (permanent hastened-effect, suitable to Rangers), 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), Medal of Glory (Artefact/Accessory - Mark of true talent that allows the wearer to gain triple experience from battles), Electro Gear (Adds lightning-element to physical attacks and protects from lightning-elemental damage, accessory) Aquamarine (Water), Diamond (Light), Sapphire (Wind), Topaz (lightning), Fifty Shades of Bley, Bedroll, Magic Compass, Magnifying Glass, 2 Remedies, 2 Somas, 8 Water Bombs, 2x Lightning Bomb, 2x Fire Bomb, 3 Dirt Bombs, Smoke Bomb, 4x Venom, 2x Deadly Venom, Health Core, 3x Potion, 2x Grand Potion, 3 Nostrums, 8 Meads, 3 Smelling Salts, 10 Remedies, 6 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), 3x Level Up Mushroom, Dragonfire Stew (Gives the consumer the encouraged and inspired effects for the duration of one battle) Alexandre le Chevalier (Played by Capt.JohnPaul) *Immune to Stunned* *Encouraged* 20 year old elf male Black Knight Level 23.33 Power Bonus: 0 Defense: 14 Health: 41/41 Gold: 31 Equipment: Sword of the Elven Blademaster (WP: 10 ;ignores SP, badly poisoned, +1 gold per successful strike), Cross Heater Shield (SP: 10), Dapper Hat (Headwear, wearer has a 1/6 chance of becoming encouraged at the start of each battle), Black Knight Armor (SP:4, protects from Stunned effect.) Inventory: Potions (5), Bedroll, Smoke Bomb 2x, Fire Bomb, Feather Duster of DOOM (WP: 1), Eyepatch (Headwear: 1/2 chance to prevent blinded-effect. Costs 20 gold. A hero cannot equip more than 1 eyepatch) Deadly Venom x2, Tome of The Regret, Volatile Venom x5, Mead 4x, Nostrum 3x, Smelling Salts x1, Grand Potion 3x, Emerald (Wood), Mulled Wine, 1 fine Montresorian Wine,Ambrosia, Remedy Dyric Rone (Played by The Legonator) *Immune to all elements* *Lucky* *Steals 50% more gold* *Encouraged* Level 22.33 Assassin Power Bonus: 0 Defense: 3 Health: 34/34 Gold: 1767 Equipment: Requiem (WP: 20; wood, light and darkness-elemental, ranged), Lucky Die, Tricorne (SP:3, Water, Wood, Earth, Ice, Fire, Wind, Lightning, Light, Darkness - elemental) Sticky Gloves (Increases amount of gold stolen by 50%; handwear) Inventory: Double Chain Whip (WP:10), Throwing Knife (WP:4, ranged, retrievable), Aquamarine (Water), Diamond, 4 Potions, 5 Grand Potions, Elixir, 2 Remedies, 2 Meads, 2 Venoms, Smoke Bomb, Skeleton Decoy, 3 Mythril Shards (3/4 of a Mythril), Silver Ore (Worth 60 gold), Bone, Winged Sandals, Smelling Salt Bedroll, Shovel, Banana (Restores full health to target), Diamond Lamp of Summoning (1/3 Uses Left), Tonic, Nordic Stomach Guard (SP: 3, Immunity to Ice and Water, Bodywear, Suitable for Barbarians, Regulators, and Beast Warriors), 1 Military Grade Light Bomb, 1 Military Grade Darkness Bomb Olmstyr (NPC, uncontrollable/takes suggestions) *Encouraged* 33 years old male orc Warden Level 27.66 Power Bonus: 0 Defense: 10 Health: 44/44 Gold: 0 Equipment: Serstyr (WP: 20, light-elemental, longsword), Traveller’s Cloak (SP: 1, backwear), Orc-Made Chainmail (Suitable for Olmstyr, SP: 9, half damage from humans, bodywear) Inventory: 2 Grand Potions, Elixir Captain Illdria (NPC, controlled by Scubacarrot) 26 years old female human Marauder *Immune to weakened, fragile, enamored, and confused* *Poisoned* *Encouraged* Level 30 Power Bonus: 0 Health: 45/46 Gold: 488 Equipment: Rapier (WP: 13, longsword), Flayer (WP: 10, whip), Corset of Kickass (Suitable for Illdria, wearer deals the enamored-effect, bodywear), Cap'n’s Sash (Suitable for Illdria, immune to weakened, fragile, enamored, and confused, grants Command, accessory) Knife-Tongue (NPC, controlled by swils) 37 years old male hobgoblin Marauder *Immune to jinxed* *KO'd* Level 12 Power Bonus: 0 Health: 0/27 Gold: 16 Equipment: Shank (WP: 7, dagger), Shiv (WP: 5, dagger), Coat of Misfortune (Suitable for Knife-Tongue, wearer has a 1/6 chance to deal the jinxed-effect on successful hits, immune to jinxed, bodywear) Zasies (NPC, controlled by Flare) 72 years old female Selkreeth Berserker *Immune to fragile* *KO'd* Level 22 Power Bonus: +5 Health: 6/36 Gold: 38 Equipment: Ungodly Spiky Mace (WP: 15, deals the bleeding-effect, dealing 5 points of damage each round until remedied or fully healed, mace), Heavy Gauntlets (Suitable for Zasies, +5 power, immune to fragile, handwear) Everyone, please choose an action. Party leader, please create a battle order. Scuba, swils, Chromekight, and Flare, take note you have NPC control. At the end of 24 hours, party leader/secondary party leader, please recommend actions for heroes that have not posted yet.

"Sorry, folks," says Boomingham as he stumbles forward uneasily. "Damn poison is getting to my head." OoC: Already feeling much much better - hoping that it was some sort of 24-hour stomach flu!! JimBee's order and action choices can stand.