Zepher

An RP note I've suggested before (earlier this page, actually, but I'm doing it again myself, so it's on my mind): Read back over old character interactions, they're very cool, and help re-affirm some character choice and events... and also we've got a crazy lot of good writers. Read some old talks- DarkDragon, I don't know if you recall Cinna and Boomingham meeting, but that was a great moment for him at least. And Sandy, when Ellaria confesses about her child- genius roleplaying, and great moment for Boomingham to remember about her. This quote from Barty is something I only vaguely remembered writing, but it explains EVERYTHING about him and Boomingham:

I'm loving all the votes already pouring in! We have two weeks, so don't be afraid to let it sit and wait for a while- I have my sheet filled out, but am making sure I don't remember something (and also these choices are so hard, I really wish I had more than one vote for some of the characters - WBD, how'd we pick the category "Best Roleplayer"?! That's impossible).

The two men sit in awkward silence a short while- Eric is too concerned with his own drink to speak up, it would seem. Barty zips around and gives Guts the evil eye. Finally Boomingham clears his throat and smacks his lips loudly. "Would you like to pour me a glass?" he asks. "I've got a few things I was hoping to talk to you about. I hear that you're a worshipper of Pseudo? I recently stumbled upon an old temple of his, and while we hit it off, I'm still a little unsure of what he wants from me specifically. Care to fill me in, and of course share a drink?"

Round Four Chaos Sewer Battle >Dyric v. Chaos Beast B - Special Damage Critical Hit Critical Hit Critical Hit - (([9*2]+18)/3=12-5=7 damage each) (112: Beasts B and C Assassinated) >Skrall v. Chaos Beast B D - Special Damage Hit - ([36*3]-5=103) Phil v. Chaos Beast B D - Special Damage Damage (32-2=30) >Thothwick v. Chaos Beast C D - Hide Critical Hit [([12*2]+21)/2]-5=18) >Haldor v. Chaos Beast D - Shield Hit (30 Damage Transferred to Phil) >Poletad v. Chaos Beast B D - Critical Hit Damage (([17*2]/2)-5=12) With the beasts disoriented, the party presses its advantage. Showing more expertise in his field than any other point in this quest (I think) lashes out with his whip which tears through the necks of two of the chaos beasts. If the heroes had forgotten how Chaos Beasts bleed, they are now reminded. The soulless hollow howls pour out from the holes in their heads as black liquid leaks out of their necks and runs slowly down into the sewer water. The other heroes wail on the final one, but it stands firm. The Chaos Beast Sewer Party Skrall 80 year old Male Ogre Hunter Level 23 1/3 *Party Leader* *Favors Humanoid and Demon Enemies* *Immunity to Fragile* *Natural Respite* Power: 36 Defense: 8 Health: 37/37 Gold: 30 Equipment: Hunter's Crossbow (WP:11, +4 vs. Beasts), Hunter's Quiver (Bows and Crossbows +2WP, allows Hunters to favor two types of enemies, back wear), Tricorne (SP: 3, head wear), Heavy Armor (SP: 5, wearer is immune to fragile effect, body wear) Inventory: Smoke Bomb, Mead, Grand Potion, Lucky Doubloon (Grants "Special Guard"), 2 Potions, Minimizing Dust, Nostrum, Remedy Haldor Skovgaard Level 23 2/3 Shaman *Immune to Weakened, Fragile and Blinded* *Natural Respite* Power: 39 Defense: 7 Health: 40/40 Ether: 25/29 Gold: 36 Equipment: Zoot er Isen (WP:14, Ice and Light Elemental) Ethereal Cloak (SP:+2, +4 Ether, Blinded Immunity), Pugilist's Gloves (+2 Power, Weakened Immunity), Heavy Armour (SP:+5, Fragile Immunity). Inventory: Heavy Metal Rod (WP:12, Water Elemental), Bear Claw Gloves (WP:8, SP:+2), Paper Doll (Hexed immunity), Shovel, Pickaxe, Bedroll, Emerald Lamp of Summoning, Scroll of Sealing, Potion (x4), Remedy (x4), Mead , Nostrum (x2), Smelling Salts (x2), Soma (x2), Venom, Mulled Wine Thothwick Level 21 Black Knight *Damage Undead* *Immune to Stunned* Power: 33 (29 Ranged) Defence: 10 Health: 36/36 Gold: 245 Equipment: Banana Sabre (WP: 12, Heals Metasimians when used on them), Skull Shield (SP:6; immunity to darkness-elemental damage; suitable to Black Knights only)Black Knight's Armour (SP:4, protects from stunned-effect), Cultist's Hat (regular attacks do Damage to Undead) Inventory: Shuriken (WP 8), 1 Bedroll, 1 Telescope, 1 Potion, 2 Grand Potions, 1 Bone, Sabre (WP 10), Venom, Phoenix Essence Phil (Victor) Level 20 2/3 Dragon Knight *Immune to Fire, Air and Earth Elemental Attacks* *Natural Respite* Power: 35 Health: 38/38 Defense: 2 Gold: 50 Equipment: Hammer of Dastan (WP: 15, Fire/Earth Elemental), Helmet of Dastan (SP: 2) Inventory: Meads (x2), Dragon Scale Dyric Rone Level 18 Assassin *Lucky* Power: 27 Health: 29/29 Gold: 2408 Equipment: Cat-o'-Nine-Tails (WP:9, damage divided between all enemies, Suitable For Rouges), Scarf of Misfortune (Wearer deals the Jinxed effect on every third round, accessory), Cultist Hat (damage vs undead) Inventory: Double Chain Whip (WP:10), Briar Bow (WP: 11; wood-elemental), Throwing Knife (WP:4, ranged, retrievable), Longsword (WP: 3), , Aquamarine (Water), 3 Potions, 3 Grand Potions, Grand Tonic, Elixir, 3 Remedies, Mead, Smelling Salts, 2 Venoms, Smoke Bomb, Skeleton Decoy, 2 Mythril Shards (2/4 of a Mythril), Silver Ore (Worth 60 gold), Winged Sandals, Phoenix Essence, Nostrum, Aqua Gear (Adds water-element to physical attacks and protects from water-elemental damage, accessory), Bone, Jester's Hat (Gains one immunity from targeted enemy) Sir Earl Poletad Level 17 Frog Paladin Power: 17 Health: 17/17 Ether: 15/17 The Chaos Beast Sewer Enemies Chaos Beast D Level 32 Demon *Jinxed* Health: 209/500 SP: 5 Special: (Determined by a second dice roll) Chaos: 1 – 20 Damage, 2 – 40 Damage, 3 – +1 Level to Self, 4 – 50 Damage to Self, 5 – 7 Damage to each Hero (Regardless of row/SP), 6 – +1 WP to Hero’s Weapon Drops: 50 Gold Court of Demons Round Four Cronk heals Gnash - No Healing (5) >Hoke v. Expert A - Shield Critical Hit (8 Strikes) (Hits A & B twice each, all other strikes negated by AoE blocking) ([41*2]*2=164 each) >Hans v. Master B - Shield (Halved Health) (Orderly) Atramor v. Expert B - Critical Hit ([5*2]+23=33) (Fragile) >Alexis drinks potion >Alexis v. Magician - Hit Aim (40) Gnash does nothing Free Hits Mephisto v. Cronk -([42/2]-17=4) ([27/2]-10=4) Master A v. Hoke - ([32/2]-9=7) ([20/2]*2=20) Bleeding - Magician (-5) Badly Poisoned - Master A (-20), Expert B (-20) Blessed - Hoke (+3!) The heroes rain down a number of blows on their enemies, who seem to already be failing... all except Mephisto... who still stands with his fiery red eyes and his breath which comes out his mouth frozen. The Court of Demons Party Cronk Level 28 Paladin *Party Leader* *Counterstriking* *Immune to Fragile* Power: 40 Defense: 17 Health: 34/46 Ether: 19/29 Gold: 20 Equipment: Zoot's Bane (Suitable only for Cronk; WP: 12, Light), Ennoc's Blessing (Shield, SP: 9), Paladin's Armour (Suitable for Paladins, +5 SP, +2 Max Ether), Counterstirke Gloves (After the wearer is struck by a Free Hit, they counter with strength equal to their level), Lieutenant's Helmet (SP:3, protects from fragile) Inventory: Beast Skewer (Lance; WP: 12), Ennoc's Gratitude (Artifact, Accessory, User Perma-Blessed, Requires Light Weapon), Sword of Bashing (Longsword; WP:5), Bedroll, Shovel, Holy Bomb, 3 Stakes (WP:1 to each of them), 2 Remedies, Bennetton's Seal, Topaz, Health Core, 2 Lightning Bombs, Bloody Pointy Stick (WP: 1) Alexis Fenral Level 26 2/3 Assassin *Hastened* *Lucky* Power: 40 Health: 30/44 Gold: 884 Equipment: Mockthril Longbow (WP:14, ranged), Quickdraw Quiver (permanent hastened-effect), Sticky Gloves (Increases amount of gold stolen by 50%; handwear), Lucky Die Inventory: Flute of the Magi (WP:3, asleep-effect), Tonic, 2 Meads, 2 Nostrums, Venom, Fire Bomb, Lightning Bomb, Pickaxe, Shovel, Bedroll, Magic Compass, Magnifying Glass, Holy Bomb, 2 Remedies, 3 Somas, Phoenix Essence, 3 Grand Potions, Carrot, Fifty Shades of Bley, 2 Lightning Bomb, Venom, Ring of Sight (protects from blinded) Atramor Gibbin Level 23 *Deals Badly Poisoned* Power: 33 Health: 44/44 Ether: 18/21 Gold: 41 Equipment: Ratsbane (WP: 10, absorbs 2 health on successful strike, fire, ice, earth, wind elemental), Witch's Talisman (Suitable for witches, Posioned Hits become Badly Poisoned Hits, accessory), White Cloak (Suitable for clerics, +3 maximum health, backwear), Ancient Crown (Deals Cursed Effect on First Successful Hit) Inventory: Sword of Ancestral Hatred (WP: 6, gains 1 WP every kill made with it) Staff of the Elven Warlock (WP: 5, wood elemental), Heavy Flail (WP: 5, deals the Fragile effect)Topaz, Amethyst (Loaned to Mallelio), Fire Bomb, Bomb XX (Deals 30 damage to all enemies and 10 damage to all heroes, all damage ignoring SP/row), Shovel, Pickaxe, Grating Stone, Scroll of Luck (Grants target the Lucky-effect for one battle. Costs 10 ether) Hoke Ablesword Level 20 1/3 Mystic Knight *Lucky* *Blessed* Power: 41 Defense: 4 Health: 34/38 Ether: 14/20 Gold: 67 Equipment: Twin Broadswords (WP:21, user can attacks 2 enemies in the same turn, user is unable to use a shield), Elaborate Helmet (SP: 2), Warrior's Treads (SP:2, Health +1), Counterstrike Gloves (When hit by a Free Hit, immediately deals damage equal to level, handwear) Inventory: Ruby, Sapphire, Emerald, Aquamarine, Amethyst, Diamond, Topaz, 2 Phoenix Essence, 4 Potions, Grand Tonic, 2 Remedies, Smoke Bomb, Bedroll, Pickaxe, Shovel, Hollow Blade (Dagger: WP 6), Tonic, Grating Stone, Nostrum, Ether Core, Healing Staff (WP:5; heals instead of damaging), Fire Bomb, Scrap Metal, Vintul (Great sword: WP 15), Steel Buckler (Shield: SP 7) Hans Level 16 1/2 Chaos Regulator *Orderly* *Encouraged* Power: 26 Health: 28/28 Defense: 6 Gold: 56 Equipment: Sword of Dastan (WP: 10), Armor of the Arena (SP: 4), Cast Iron Haddon Guard Helmet (SP: 2) Inventory: Gnash Level 14 1/2 City Watch Guard Power: 22 Health: 10/28 Defense: 1 Gold: 17 Equipment: City Watch Halberd (WP: 6), City Watch Helmet (SP: 1) McColt - Will be freed if all Experts are killed. If not freed by Round 7, will die. The Court of Demons Enemies Mephisto, King of Demons Level 42 Ancient *Immune to Instant Kills* Health: 888/980 SP: 10 Ether: 3/3 Special I: Soul Eater – Mephisto eats the hero’s soul. The hero is sealed until the end of the quest. Cannot be remedied. Uses one ether. Special II: Mind Eater – Mephisto eats the hero’s mind, instantly KOing them. Used if no ether remains. Passive Special I: Miracle of the Court – Negative effects inflicted on Mephisto last only one round. Passive Special II: Soul Sucker – All heroes targeting Mephisto lose one positive effect of their choice at the end of the round (excluding perma-effects). Drops: Amulet of the Court of Demons (Artifact, Accessory, Negative effects last only one round on user), Amethyst, Diamond, Opal Magician of the Court of Demons Level 10 Soulless *Immune to further Negative Effects and Instant Kill* *Bleeding* Health: 135/800 Special: Ravenous Hunger – Drains 10 ether and 10 health from the hero, disregarding row/SP. Passive Special: All AoE attacks/effects only effect the person the hero is targeting. Drops: Ether Core, Health Core, 200 Gold Master of the Court of Demons A Level 32 Dark Humanoid *Immune to Blind, Stunned, Sealed, Bound, and Instant Kills* *Fragile (2 rounds)* *Badly Poisoned* Health: 135/464 Ether: 7/7 Special I: Ether Drainer – Drains 3 ether from target. Costs 1 ether. Special II: Insane Fervor - Cuts himself multiple times to show Akkaba he’d do anything for his blessing. Enemy is encouraged for the next round at the cost of 10 health and 1 ether.
 Special III: Creepy Croak - The Master gives a mighty croak, and doubles his health, at the loss of 20 health from each party member. Costs 1 ether. Note: Specials alternate. If ether is depleted, special damage will count as normal damage. Drops: Health Core Master of the Court of Demons B Level 32 Dark Humanoid *Immune to Blind, Stunned, Sealed, Bound, and Instant Kills* Health: 209/464 Ether: 3/7 Special I: Ether Drainer – Drains 3 ether from target. Costs 1 ether. Special II: Insane Fervor - Cuts himself multiple times to show Akkaba he’d do anything for his blessing. Enemy is encouraged for the next round at the cost of 10 health and 1 ether.
 Special III: Creepy Croak - The Master gives a mighty croak, and doubles his health, at the loss of 20 health from each party member. Costs 1 ether. Note: Specials alternate. If ether is depleted, special damage will count as normal damage. Drops: Health Core Expert of the Court of Demons A Level 26 Dark Humanoid *Immune to Instant Kill* Health: 17/305 Ether: 5/5 Special I: Ether Drainer – Drains 3 ether from target. Costs 1 ether. Special II: Insane Fervor - Cuts himself multiple times to show Akkaba he’d do anything for his blessing. Enemy is encouraged for the next round at the cost of 10 health and 1 ether. Note: Specials alternate. If ether is depleted, nothing happens. Drops: 12 Gold, Potion Expert of the Court of Demons B Level 26 Dark Humanoid *Immune to Instant Kill* *Fragile (3 rounds)* *Badly Poisoned* Health: 6/305 Ether: 5/5 Special I: Ether Drainer – Drains 3 ether from target. Costs 1 ether. Special II: Insane Fervor - Cuts himself multiple times to show Akkaba he’d do anything for his blessing. Enemy is encouraged for the next round at the cost of 10 health and 1 ether. Note: Specials alternate. If ether is depleted, nothing happens. Drops: 12 Gold, Potion Note: Master A should have been badly poisoned last round. I have deducted 40 health from him at the end of this round, to account for the last round of fragile poisoning and this round. Also, fair warning, it is 6 AM here and I haven't slept for nearly 24 hours (life is for living ). Which means you're probably going to want to check this round relatively carefully. But on the plus side Alexis is finally no longer immune to blind and changed her clothes!

I just realized I had +4 power that whole quest because of Pseudo's Blessing. I gotta note that somewhere more obvious. ALSO, Sandy, I'd like to request this be added to the Q&A, because a lot of people may wonder- I certainly did until I arrived on something I thought was suitable and have used in my last few quests. Q: How are +WP and +Power Artifacts factored into battle calculations? A: Artifacts that are +WP are added when the WP is added. +Power are added to the level of the hero in calculations. For example, if the hero has a WP: 2 weapon, and is level 2, but has a +1 WP Artifact and a +1 power artifact, the calculations for a critical hit would look like this: ([2+1]*2)+2+1=9). I know its a pain in the megablocks, but SO many people have +power artifacts or abilities that are always forgotten because no one knows exactly how they factor in.

Don't worry, we're only mean to each other as a strategy... right guys?

Sandy, I'm rereading 40 right now, and I apologize in saying that Ellaria doesn't seem bold enough in the most recent quest. She was more than angry with Boomingham for a lot of that quest- I'd just love to see that come back in more dynamic ways.

OoC: Your assumptions are, as always, too kind- I forgot to roll because I should not be on the mechanic side of QMing. Thank god Skrall is around so often (and Hoke and Atramor). Just rolled, A is down for the count, will go edit it in now. I really do apologize, it's only going to get worse as I get older too! I swear, my mind is already going.

I just might, Endgame... if only you were in the party, then I could give you a taste of your own medicine!! And WBD, I was thinking that as I was writing, but we'd have to think of a really convincing reason in universe to get them all together, or make it non-canon, which would make me really bummed. And, on a largely related note: WBD and I are proud to present our version of the 2013 Heroica Awards!! You simply send in your vote for each category via PM (for the QM/NPC blanket category, send to me, and for the PC blanket category, send your votes to WBD). Voting will close it two weeks (February 16th) at some point. I expect we will have all the votes in by then. About a week after that... maybe a little more... we will be presenting the two closest runner-ups, and the first place winner. Everyone who is anyone will be at the red carpet too, with celebrity NPCs announcing the winners of each category, and a very special PC guest will be hosting the whole event (we won't tell you yet who it is... partially because it's a surprise and partially because they haven't quite yet agreed)! Some of you with NPCs will be contacted at some point to write speeches too (I feel like I'm nearly always asking my fellow QMs favors, sorry all). Without further ado... your categories to vote in. You have one vote for each category: QMs/NPCs (send these votes to Zepher): Best Scenery/Photography Best Game Mechanic (including battle mechanic, puzzles, riddles, etc.) Best Item Best Friendly NPC (Roleplaying) Best Villianous NPC (Roleplaying) Best Villain/Enemy (Game Mechanic-wise) Best Story Players/Character (send these votes to WBD): Best Roleplayer Best Battle Strategist Best Character Optimizer Most Badass Character Most Original Character Most Powerful/Meaningful Relationship (Doesn't have to be a love relationship) Best Party Dynamic (Quest #)

Gurnam as a hero (for that reason in particular) would be beyond funny. There are some issues with putting NPCs as a hero though (why would XX not be a bombardier from the beginning, and what the hell would Gurnam be?!). Poletad is another NPC I've considered joining Heroica, but I think I have slightly different plans for him. That being said, a party of Atters, XX, and Gurnam is something I want to see one day. Maybe throw some Donny Dozenhands in there, Sandy? And Guts would come along as well, of course. EDIT: And Punii should be there too! Though at this rate, Heroica is going to become even more the anti-hero... and I don't know if it can handle becoming too much more of a anti-hero.

Go back to drooling on the floor and stop your rhyme related puns, Arthur. I rarely rarely rarely say this about my own writing, but I can't wait for you all to read this Nyx sidequest. Pandora is being an incredible springboard for writing... and I just truly love XX. Maybe he'll be my PL if I ever tire of Boomingham- that would be a sight to see. I don't think he'd get too warm of a welcome.

You got to color the water and land, it hurts my eyes trying to figure it out. I'm excited to see us venture further and further! Cpt. - A question (can't recall if I've asked this before): Have you ever very seriously studied France? I'm just interested because you have taken charge of Charis with such verve. Do you like the actual country of France/know a lot about it? I don't mean to sound insulting, I just wonder how much you actually know about the country Charis is based on! 53ers & 48ers - Look at that! Endgame's Chaos Beasts are meaner than mine.

I would have posted here before the Hall, but I always like to let the QM have the first word when possible! WBD, you know I always love your quests. The next time you host, I will almost certainly be there if its possible! I agree that this quest was a great mixture of your last few quests - it had mystery, some cool puzzles, some tough battles, and while we got to pick our actions pretty clearly, we still had a direction all the time. The plot was a really great plot and each event flowed into each other very well (my main complaint with 28 storywise was the one or two "twists" with little explanation. This had none of those). The battles were fun and inventive. I enjoyed all of them, and I enjoyed strategizing. One of the main aspects of the game I feel Boomingham HAS to be good at is battle planning, considering his background. This is slightly difficult because its the only trait I can't just roleplay, I (Zepher) need to be good at it too. So, I'm glad you think I plan well, and I in return can say that it was fun to try to figure them out. The last fight was a little challenging, but I do honestly think it was the rolls that got us- and you're on 53 right now, so I have no right to complain. I also don't know if I've always shoved Boomingham in the front of BO's when I've PL'd in the past, but I shall from now on, it fits him, and it makes strategizing around it even more fun. As a related side note - I LOVE when a player is QMing their QM. It's one of the best dynamics in the game, just for sheer digs at each other. This quest was a little long for three fights (in my quests, I try to do a battle a week), but there were time zone issues. Even so, it felt like it dragged a little from time to time, but I think I've said that about every quest I've been on so far, so maybe it's just me and my excitement for the game... As for personal roleplay: I really do enjoy playing Boomingham. His overall path is still a little slow, and he still hasn't had a "life changing" experience so far in the game (HE NEEDS TO GO TO OLD FASHION WAR, QMS, or the Paladin Order. Or something big. Someone indulge me- anyone want to think up a solo quest for the old bugger ) so I fear that he might be getting a little stale to other people, but I still have a lot of fun with him. He really does surprise me - I don't actually know how I (Zepher) feel about Big Business, and that being said Boomingham defending it surprised me, but also made perfect sense to me. I loved Harkenshire's robbery of the Harbor Master and how he tried to take everything in the room. I also love writing speeches to bosses, it turns out. I think I'll compile them all somewhere one day (The Boomingham WallOfText of snark). And I'm happy Boomingham got Plud a job too. I sort of like Boomingham's world view- it's evolved really nicely, and is a few simple concepts that I don't personally really believe in totally, but am starting to like more the more I write about them from Boomingham's point of view. I think he's secretly a kind of good guy. As to my fellow players (this is getting long....): Sandy - It is always a pleasure. Ellaria and Boomingham had a strange start, (as did Nyx and Boomingham) and I'm excited to see where it goes. Maybe we'll get to go save your baby some time. I think that the relationship they have can keep getting more interesting. I want to see some twists and turns in it! I don't know what they are, but I feel like if Ellaria comes out of her shell a little more, and starts to really talk up... Ellaria is a wonderful and lovely character, but she's so timid, it takes a long time to fully grasp her world view and beliefs. I'd love to have a few more of them come to the surface to argue against or agree with. It already happened a bit (Rocklings, fighting J. Smith, trying to chase J. Smith) but I'd love to see her get really angry with someone some day because of a belief she holds. But I guess little by little. I really love her and can't wait to see what else happens, and my one regret of (hopefully) going on your Bonaparte Quest is that I can't take her with me once more! VP - Since I'm more of a RP player, and you're not so much one, this will be shorter than Sandy's (sorry). I always have a fun time with you, hosting or playing. I do wish you RP'd more (sometimes you do and you're always pretty decent at it) but of course to each their own. My one hope for future quests is that you PAY ATTENTION. We'd often ask you to take items before a battle, or to help us out with something, and you simply wouldn't respond. A no is fine, just let us know. It was a bit of an issue when QMing you too- if you're in it for the stats, you still have to plan with us and use items. But again, it was fun, except when you got auras and stole my counterstrikes . FINALLY (my god): I loved the idea of an homage quest. There are so many great characters out there, and it was fun to meet some of them. It's strange that people have relationships with NPCs because we can only really meet them in quests and never in the hall, but Gurnam and Boomingham have a real rapport now, which I dig so much. My next Russel quest is in many ways meant to be an homage to some of the early quests/my favorite quests (in a different way than this). I think this was a great homage and people should do this more often. If I wasn't so protective of my NPCs (its a fault I don't see changing soon) I'd love to throw some of my names into the hat, but seriously, I'd love to see more of these, I think they're very cool and very well put together. WBD, you also breath such wonderful life into the characters, both your original/returning NPCs, and the ones you hijacked from others. You show real respect for the characters that have already been established, and you make them stick to that and grow. Have I said "it's been a pleasure" enough? It's been a pleasure.

Boomingham, ever the one to lead the charge, is the first hero to bumble back into the hall. He glances around for Nyx, but she is no where to be seen. He feels that it has been too long since they've seen each other, though it hasn't been all that long at all. He searches for other familiar friendly faces- Cinna, the young girl he had befriended and wished to know more about, Hybros slumped in his chair near the fire, Atramor with his little chicken that Barty seems to distrust, the two polite and warm faces of Hoke and Tothwick, even the large Ogre Skrall. None of them are in the hall. Boomingham sighs. Barty zips around above, but the little angel doesn't seem particularly talkative either. Perhaps something is weighing on his small brain- or whatever it is that angels have in their head. Boomingham sleepily does his normal scan of the hall, looking for his oldest friends, and for once is pleasantly surprised to see Eric, the big barbarian he first made acquaintances with. Though they had rarely had a chance to talk since their first encounter, his impression of the man was still strangely very positive. A huge grin breaks out on the old Paladin's face and he walks over towards the Barbarian, holding up a hand to bar maid as he passes. He sits down next to the barbarian and pats him on the shoulder roughly but with affection. "How goes it, chap?" Boomingham sees the raider Guts bumming around nearby and waves him over to the table, his eyes on the bottle of sweet wine that Guts holds.

Boomingham smiles, scribbles his name on a piece of paper, and hands it to Plud. "Show this to Spinnetus. He'll set you up good and proper." Boomingham turns to his party, wipes his head with his handkerchief, and hums a merry little tune from the old days. "That wraps it up. Let's go get a drink."

Everything is fixed, hopefully! Thanks all.

So cool! Also - sorry to my questies. I've been super busy/kind of sick this week, so our rounds were a little off. Alexis should not have nearly as much money because the AoE should be blocked. Gnash should be returned to you. Hans should be encouraged, so I will account for that too. I will try to fix it all now, but I just wanted to warn you those changes would be on the way!

I hope that Hinck and Shadows are hosting the Mafia School together.

OoC: Thanks for the explanation of how duel strike works! I didn't get it before. I'll leave the last round as is, because sometimes believe it or not, I'm nice. Round Three Chaos Sewer Battle >Poletad heals Dyric - Shield (+17 health all) >Haldor v. Chaos Beast D - Hit ([(39*2)/2]-5=34) >Dyric v. Chaos Beast A - Critical Hit Damage ([((9*2)+18)/2]/4=5-5=0) (All Jinxed) (1255) (A is Assassinated) >Skrall v. Chaos Beast B - Special Damage (4) (50 damage to self) Phil v. Chaos Beast A - Hit (35-5=30) >Thothwick v. Chaos Beast C - Hide The heroes continue their battle. Dyric's scarf glows and sends a power through his whip that glances off of every beast. The Chaos Beast Sewer Party Skrall 80 year old Male Ogre Hunter Level 23 1/3 *Party Leader* *Favors Humanoid and Demon Enemies* *Immunity to Fragile* *Natural Respite* Power: 36 Defense: 8 Health: 37/37 Gold: 30 Equipment: Hunter's Crossbow (WP:11, +4 vs. Beasts), Hunter's Quiver (Bows and Crossbows +2WP, allows Hunters to favor two types of enemies, back wear), Tricorne (SP: 3, head wear), Heavy Armor (SP: 5, wearer is immune to fragile effect, body wear) Inventory: Smoke Bomb, Mead, Grand Potion, Lucky Doubloon (Grants "Special Guard"), 2 Potions, Minimizing Dust, Nostrum, Remedy Haldor Skovgaard Level 23 2/3 Shaman *Immune to Weakened, Fragile and Blinded* *Natural Respite* Power: 39 Defense: 7 Health: 40/40 Ether: 25/29 Gold: 36 Equipment: Zoot er Isen (WP:14, Ice and Light Elemental) Ethereal Cloak (SP:+2, +4 Ether, Blinded Immunity), Pugilist's Gloves (+2 Power, Weakened Immunity), Heavy Armour (SP:+5, Fragile Immunity). Inventory: Heavy Metal Rod (WP:12, Water Elemental), Bear Claw Gloves (WP:8, SP:+2), Paper Doll (Hexed immunity), Shovel, Pickaxe, Bedroll, Emerald Lamp of Summoning, Scroll of Sealing, Potion (x4), Remedy (x4), Mead , Nostrum (x2), Smelling Salts (x2), Soma (x2), Venom, Mulled Wine Thothwick Level 21 Black Knight *Damage Undead* *Immune to Stunned* Power: 33 (29 Ranged) Defence: 10 Health: 36/36 Gold: 245 Equipment: Banana Sabre (WP: 12, Heals Metasimians when used on them), Skull Shield (SP:6; immunity to darkness-elemental damage; suitable to Black Knights only)Black Knight's Armour (SP:4, protects from stunned-effect), Cultist's Hat (regular attacks do Damage to Undead) Inventory: Shuriken (WP 8), 1 Bedroll, 1 Telescope, 1 Potion, 2 Grand Potions, 1 Bone, Sabre (WP 10), Venom, Phoenix Essence Phil (Victor) Level 20 2/3 Dragon Knight *Immune to Fire, Air and Earth Elemental Attacks* *Natural Respite* Power: 35 Health: 38/38 Defense: 2 Gold: 50 Equipment: Hammer of Dastan (WP: 15, Fire/Earth Elemental), Helmet of Dastan (SP: 2) Inventory: Meads (x2), Dragon Scale Dyric Rone Level 18 Assassin *Lucky* Power: 27 Health: 29/29 Gold: 2408 Equipment: Cat-o'-Nine-Tails (WP:9, damage divided between all enemies, Suitable For Rouges), Scarf of Misfortune (Wearer deals the Jinxed effect on every third round, accessory), Cultist Hat (damage vs undead) Inventory: Double Chain Whip (WP:10), Briar Bow (WP: 11; wood-elemental), Throwing Knife (WP:4, ranged, retrievable), Longsword (WP: 3), , Aquamarine (Water), 3 Potions, 3 Grand Potions, Grand Tonic, Elixir, 3 Remedies, Mead, Smelling Salts, 2 Venoms, Smoke Bomb, Skeleton Decoy, 2 Mythril Shards (2/4 of a Mythril), Silver Ore (Worth 60 gold), Winged Sandals, Phoenix Essence, Nostrum, Aqua Gear (Adds water-element to physical attacks and protects from water-elemental damage, accessory), Bone, Jester's Hat (Gains one immunity from targeted enemy) Sir Earl Poletad Level 17 Frog Paladin Power: 17 Health: 17/17 Ether: 15/17 The Chaos Beast Sewer Enemies Chaos Beast B Level 32 Demon *Jinxed* Health: 313/500 SP: 5 Special: (Determined by a second dice roll) Chaos: 1 – 20 Damage, 2 – 40 Damage, 3 – +1 Level to Self, 4 – 50 Damage to Self, 5 – 7 Damage to each Hero (Regardless of row/SP), 6 – +1 WP to Hero’s Weapon Drops: 50 Gold Chaos Beast C Level 32 Demon *Jinxed* Health: 468/500 SP: 5 Special: (Determined by a second dice roll) Chaos: 1 – 20 Damage, 2 – 40 Damage, 3 – +1 Level to Self, 4 – 50 Damage to Self, 5 – 7 Damage to each Hero (Regardless of row/SP), 6 – +1 WP to Hero’s Weapon Drops: 50 Gold Chaos Beast D Level 32 Demon *Jinxed* Health: 372/500 SP: 5 Special: (Determined by a second dice roll) Chaos: 1 – 20 Damage, 2 – 40 Damage, 3 – +1 Level to Self, 4 – 50 Damage to Self, 5 – 7 Damage to each Hero (Regardless of row/SP), 6 – +1 WP to Hero’s Weapon Drops: 50 Gold Court of Demons Round Three >Cronk v. Expert B - Damage ([26/2]-17=0) >Hans v. Master B - Hit ([26*2]/2=26) >Alexis v. Apprentice A - Shield Shield (No Assassination, 2) (22*1.5=33 gold) >Alexis v. Apprentice A - Critical Hit Hit ([14*2]+26=54) (No Assassination) >Hoke v. Critical Hit Embue - ([[21*2]+20]*2=124 KO) >Atramor v. Master A - Critical Hit (([5*2]+23)/2=17) Free Hits Mephisto v. Cronk - ([42/2]-17=4) ([27/2]-10=4) Magician v. Hans - ([10/2]-6=0) Expert B v. Alexis - (26/2=13) Magician Bleeding - (-5) The heroes cut through the apprentices and Gnash stumbles over towards them. The Court of Demons Party Cronk Level 28 Paladin *Party Leader* *Counterstriking* *Immune to Fragile* Power: 40 Defense: 17 Health: 38/46 Ether: 19/29 Gold: 20 Equipment: Zoot's Bane (Suitable only for Cronk; WP: 12, Light), Ennoc's Blessing (Shield, SP: 9), Paladin's Armour (Suitable for Paladins, +5 SP, +2 Max Ether), Counterstirke Gloves (After the wearer is struck by a Free Hit, they counter with strength equal to their level), Lieutenant's Helmet (SP:3, protects from fragile) Inventory: Beast Skewer (Lance; WP: 12), Ennoc's Gratitude (Artifact, Accessory, User Perma-Blessed, Requires Light Weapon), Sword of Bashing (Longsword; WP:5), Bedroll, Shovel, Holy Bomb, 3 Stakes (WP:1 to each of them), 2 Remedies, Bennetton's Seal, Topaz, Health Core, 2 Lightning Bombs, Bloody Pointy Stick (WP: 1) Alexis Fenral Level 26 2/3 Assassin *Hastened* *Immune to Blind* *Lucky* Power: 40 Health: 20/44 Gold: 884 Equipment: Mockthril Longbow (WP:14, ranged), Quickdraw Quiver (permanent hastened-effect), Sticky Gloves (Increases amount of gold stolen by 50%; handwear), Ring of Sight (protects from blinded), Lucky Die Inventory: Flute of the Magi (WP:3, asleep-effect), Tonic, 2 Meads, 2 Nostrums, Venom, Fire Bomb, Lightning Bomb, Pickaxe, Shovel, Bedroll, Magic Compass, Magnifying Glass, Potion, Holy Bomb, 2 Remedies, 3 Somas, Phoenix Essence, 3 Grand Potions, Carrot, Fifty Shades of Bley, 2 Lightning Bomb, Venom Atramor Gibbin Level 23 *Deals Badly Poisoned* Power: 33 Health: 44/44 Ether: 18/21 Gold: 41 Equipment: Ratsbane (WP: 10, absorbs 2 health on successful strike, fire, ice, earth, wind elemental), Witch's Talisman (Suitable for witches, Posioned Hits become Badly Poisoned Hits, accessory), White Cloak (Suitable for clerics, +3 maximum health, backwear), Ancient Crown (Deals Cursed Effect on First Successful Hit) Inventory: Sword of Ancestral Hatred (WP: 6, gains 1 WP every kill made with it) Staff of the Elven Warlock (WP: 5, wood elemental), Heavy Flail (WP: 5, deals the Fragile effect)Topaz, Amethyst (Loaned to Mallelio), Fire Bomb, Bomb XX (Deals 30 damage to all enemies and 10 damage to all heroes, all damage ignoring SP/row), Shovel, Pickaxe, Grating Stone, Scroll of Luck (Grants target the Lucky-effect for one battle. Costs 10 ether) Hoke Ablesword Level 20 1/3 Mystic Knight *Lucky* *Blessed* Power: 41 Defense: 4 Health: 38/38 Ether: 14/20 Gold: 67 Equipment: Twin Broadswords (WP:21, user can attacks 2 enemies in the same turn, user is unable to use a shield), Elaborate Helmet (SP: 2), Warrior's Treads (SP:2, Health +1), Counterstrike Gloves (When hit by a Free Hit, immediately deals damage equal to level, handwear) Inventory: Ruby, Sapphire, Emerald, Aquamarine, Amethyst, Diamond, Topaz, 2 Phoenix Essence, 4 Potions, Grand Tonic, 2 Remedies, Smoke Bomb, Bedroll, Pickaxe, Shovel, Hollow Blade (Dagger: WP 6), Tonic, Grating Stone, Nostrum, Ether Core, Healing Staff (WP:5; heals instead of damaging), Fire Bomb, Scrap Metal, Vintul (Great sword: WP 15), Steel Buckler (Shield: SP 7) Hans Level 16 1/2 Chaos Regulator *Chaotic* *Encouraged* Power: 26 Health: 28/28 Defense: 6 Gold: 56 Equipment: Sword of Dastan (WP: 10), Armor of the Arena (SP: 4), Cast Iron Haddon Guard Helmet (SP: 2) Inventory: Gnash Level 14 1/2 City Watch Guard Power: 22 Health: 10/28 Defense: 1 Gold: 17 Equipment: City Watch Halberd (WP: 6), City Watch Helmet (SP: 1) McColt - Will be freed if all Experts are killed. If not freed by Round 7, will die. The Court of Demons Enemies Mephisto, King of Demons Level 42 Ancient *Immune to Instant Kills* Health: 892/980 SP: 10 Ether: 3/3 Special I: Soul Eater – Mephisto eats the hero’s soul. The hero is sealed until the end of the quest. Cannot be remedied. Uses one ether. Special II: Mind Eater – Mephisto eats the hero’s mind, instantly KOing them. Used if no ether remains. Passive Special I: Miracle of the Court – Negative effects inflicted on Mephisto last only one round. Passive Special II: Soul Sucker – All heroes targeting Mephisto lose one positive effect of their choice at the end of the round (excluding perma-effects). Drops: Amulet of the Court of Demons (Artifact, Accessory, Negative effects last only one round on user), Amethyst, Diamond, Opal Magician of the Court of Demons Level 10 Soulless *Immune to further Negative Effects and Instant Kill* *Bleeding* Health: 180/800 Special: Ravenous Hunger – Drains 10 ether and 10 health from the hero, disregarding row/SP. Passive Special: All AoE attacks/effects only effect the person the hero is targeting. Drops: Ether Core, Health Core, 200 Gold Master of the Court of Demons A Level 32 Dark Humanoid *Immune to Blind, Stunned, Sealed, Bound, and Instant Kills* *Fragile (3 runds)* Health: 195/464 Ether: 7/7 Special I: Ether Drainer – Drains 3 ether from target. Costs 1 ether. Special II: Insane Fervor - Cuts himself multiple times to show Akkaba he’d do anything for his blessing. Enemy is encouraged for the next round at the cost of 10 health and 1 ether.
 Special III: Creepy Croak - The Master gives a mighty croak, and doubles his health, at the loss of 20 health from each party member. Costs 1 ether. Note: Specials alternate. If ether is depleted, special damage will count as normal damage. Drops: Health Core Master of the Court of Demons B Level 32 Dark Humanoid *Immune to Blind, Stunned, Sealed, Bound, and Instant Kills* Health: 418/464 Ether: 3/7 Special I: Ether Drainer – Drains 3 ether from target. Costs 1 ether. Special II: Insane Fervor - Cuts himself multiple times to show Akkaba he’d do anything for his blessing. Enemy is encouraged for the next round at the cost of 10 health and 1 ether.
 Special III: Creepy Croak - The Master gives a mighty croak, and doubles his health, at the loss of 20 health from each party member. Costs 1 ether. Note: Specials alternate. If ether is depleted, special damage will count as normal damage. Drops: Health Core Expert of the Court of Demons A Level 26 Dark Humanoid *Immune to Instant Kill* Health: 181/305 Ether: 5/5 Special I: Ether Drainer – Drains 3 ether from target. Costs 1 ether. Special II: Insane Fervor - Cuts himself multiple times to show Akkaba he’d do anything for his blessing. Enemy is encouraged for the next round at the cost of 10 health and 1 ether. Note: Specials alternate. If ether is depleted, nothing happens. Drops: 12 Gold, Potion Expert of the Court of Demons B Level 26 Dark Humanoid *Immune to Instant Kill* Health: 222/305 Ether: 5/5 Special I: Ether Drainer – Drains 3 ether from target. Costs 1 ether. Special II: Insane Fervor - Cuts himself multiple times to show Akkaba he’d do anything for his blessing. Enemy is encouraged for the next round at the cost of 10 health and 1 ether. Note: Specials alternate. If ether is depleted, nothing happens. Drops: 12 Gold, Potion OoC: Realized Alexis has way too much gold because she wouldn't be taking in from everyone because of AoE. I will fix it when I return!

Sorry Corny. As a QM, I find it easier to simply list the standard roll for all classes, so yes, even though it says "critical strike" it translates to "chaotic strike". I understand the confusion, but its difficult to remember each different name, so for future reference: All rolls of 1 will be listed as shield, all 2s as critical hit, all 3s as hit, all 4s as what they are (that is the important strange roll), 5s as damage, 6s as special damage. I apologize for the confusion!! Exactly. It will be the old grumpy/stuck up people's club! Sandy, I may ask you to include some locations from 53 and my other quests, if that's okay. Namely these: Guffington Manor, South Tower, Temple of the Old Gods, Observatory (I know there's one in the Academy, but I've added another... it's a big city). Here's a map that includes them. Temple of the Ancient Gods should be way at the end of Way's End. You don't have to include that one if you don't want- Guffington and South Tower are the two I feel strongly about. South Tower was a Lighthouse used before the Bonapartes came into power.

"Aye. Don't know if it will interest you, little man, but if you like I've arranged so that you can work at the Cathedral of Commerce. It would be good pay and you'd be safe for the rest of your days. Spinnetus seems like a decent enough man, and I don't know if you need money now that your brother is gone. Point is, if you need it, there's a job there for you. That's all we came for- to tell you your brother's killers have been punished, and we have an opportunity for you." Boomingham sighs. "What do you say?"

Vipera's got a path in the larger Zepher Quest Story-lore. Maybe she can have a sister or something...

They're the other ones I considered mentioning, but they just seem so quiet and self-concerned. Not malicious, but they seem more interested in themselves and their work than the city.

The most lawful of the houses, yes, I'd say so. They're the only ones you ever see attempting to maintain the peace. The others are solely concerned with themselves, or profit.