Heroica RPG - Quest #30: Ambassadors to Dastan

[Rumble Strike]

Tarn looked around, at his friends from Heroica and the good people from Dastan. His gaze lingered most on Ella, but what chance would he have with a daughter of an Emperor, a prophet who had been marked by a lunatic.

In the silence, he had no words. His deeds done, for better or worse, were his legacy.

[CMP]

It doesn't get any more epic than that.

Atramor darts behind Phil to the rubble of one wall of the palace, glaring at Wren with unwitheld fury. He hardly glances at Sphinx. The summoning of Zoot...it fit into everything she was trying to do here. It was beyond what anyone he'd ever heard of wanted to accomplish. He took a step forward as Phil was consumed in flames - but Vipera was far ahead of them. A Dragon Knight, Mallelio, Hans, and Poletad all arrived at once. But...no. Capturing Wren surely wasn't this easy.

And then, to his immense surprise, U'Vires walked in.

He ignored every being in the room, his one good eye focused solely on the zealot. And in mere moments redeems himself in the witch's eyes. He truly did only want to see the U'Kin of Dastan freed, despite his crude methods to do so. But fate, obviously, was not as forgiving, and he was soon swallowed in fire as well, except this time, there was nobody to save him. Wren and Sphinx vanished, and the heroes were ushered quickly to the prisons. He couldn't help, despite the situation, return Felton's grin.

The entire group proceeds outside. The streets are barren, and silent. Whatever Rogue Knights Loren had brought to seize the palace had apparently fled. And the cause was clear at once - Atramor's eyes slid skyward, to the swarm of dragons surrounding and gliding seamlessly through the air around the palace. His mouth fell open slightly. The sight was incomprehensible, and unmatched by anything he'd seen before. The rush of events after the battle wound down to a crawl as he stared. It was several minutes before he could even look down, at the hefty pouch of gold and the glimmering Dragon Scale handed over to him, and the pile of heroes and others he'd met in Dastan. He turned to Hans, Felton, and Poletad, nodding at the trio.

"Well, mates, I s'pose this'll be it for a while. It's been good fightin' at your sides. Don't stop chasin' that crazed bitch, and make sure ya' call us if she ever shows up again."

[Professor Flitwick]

Thothwick looked up to find Dragons once again reigning in the sky, and could not help but smile.

"It had not been for naught. An empire and a race have been rejuvenated to their power, thanks to our efforts."

"Mr. Phil, your Imperial Majesty, it has been a honour to serve at the will of Dastan. Words are such meagre things, and fell shall fall short if I were to attempt to surmise the simultaneous feelings of pride and sorrow I feel upon seeing Dastan's new form, upon arising from the ashes. Countless peoples have died needlessly - not to mention the wretched Wren has slipped our clutches once more - but Dastan is now changing. I do hope that this new era of Dastan will address the plight of the U'kin, soon. We have spent a long time here, and we soon need to set sail. What is this finale task you have for us?"

[Zepher]

The Party:

Thothwick (Professor Flitwick)

Level 19 Rouge

Power:

27

Defense:

0

Health:

30/30

Gold:

857

Equipment:

Sabre (WP: 8), Cultist's Hat (regular attacks do Damage to Undead), Fire Amulet (Artifact, Accessory, each attack causes double damage to enemies weak against fire)

Inventory:

Whip Chain (WP: 6), Shuriken (WP: 5), Bedroll, Telescope

Nyx (Pandora)

Level 21.66 Battle Mage

*Immune to Asleep-effect*

Power:

34

Defense:

0

Health:

31/31

Ether:

19/26

Gold:

290

Equipment:

Book of a Thousand Creatures (WP: 13; each roll has a 1/6 chance to summon a creature to aid the hero), Shiny Helmet (+1 max Health), Sandman's Parasol (immune to

Asleep

)

Inventory:

Dawnstar II (WP: 9), Healing Staff (WP: 5; healing effect), Wooden Shield (SP:2), Ruby (

Fire

), Amethyst (

Darkness

), Topaz (

Lightning

), Sapphire (

Wind

), Emerald (

Wood

), Garnet (

Earth

), Scroll of Weakening, Potion, Remedy, Tonics (2), Grand Tonics (2), Holy Bomb, Bones (5), Ether Core, Bedroll, Explosive Staff – WP: 12 (Does 1/2 damage to all enemies on a successful hit (normal damage to targeted enemy) and 1/2 WP damage to self on a roll of 4 (disregarding SP/row)), Bomb XX

Atramor Gibbin (CallMePie)

Level 21.33 Witch

Power:

31

Defense:

0

Health:

24/24 (-14 for remainder of Quest)

Ether:

6/10 (-9 for remainder of Quest)

Gold:

402

Equipment:

Ratsbane (WP: 10; +2 Health on successful hit;

Fire

,

Ice

,

Earth

,

Wind

), Witch's Talisman (Poisoned attacks become Badly Poisoned), Ancient Crown (gives target the

Cursed

-effect on first hit of battle)

Inventory:

Black Katana (WP: 8), Staff of the Elven Warlock (WP: 5;

Wood

), Grand Tonic, Fire Bomb, Scroll of Sealing, Scroll of Blindness, Bomb XX

Tarn Valco (Rumble Strike)

Level 17 Barbarian

Power:

30

Defense:

2

Health:

274/24

Gold:

138

Equipment:

Lion’s Heart (WP: 13,

Stuns

target on successful hits), Sand Worm Hide (SP: 2), Amulet of U'Kin Nobility (Non-Artifact Accessory, Grants Diplomacy to wearer when addressing a U'Kin)

Inventory:

Helbaerend (WP: 10;

Water

,

Ice

,

Lightning

; Hollow Blade: Remedy), Fauxthril Spear (WP: 6), Shovel, Pickaxe

William Harkenshire (VolcanicPanik)

Level 15 Ranger

Power:

20

Defense:

0

Health:

1/20

Gold:

370

Equipment:

Repeating Crossbow (WP: 5, may not be upgraded;

Fire

;

Hastened

), Horse

Inventory:

Hand Cannon (WP: 5;

Lightning

,

Wood

), Chimera Armor (Torsowear, Suitable for Knights and Barbarians, +2 SP, +2 Health), Lion Knight Shield (SP: 4; unsuitable), Sapphire (

Wind

), Remedy, Smoke Bomb, Mead, Smelling Salts, Skeleton Decoy, Venom, Elven Bomb, Magnifying Glass, Bedroll, Pickaxe, Shovel, Bomb XX

The Emperor strolls back out of the palace and his eyes gleam.

"Heroes, we have one final task for you, if you want it. With one glaring exception, you have proven yourselves to be good judges of character. I have spoken to Alandri, and he agrees that this course of action would be best. Roland has no children or relatives, so his bloodline cannot continue. You may decide who will fill his place. You may pick the next third Emperor of Dastan."

Edited August 16, 2012 by Zepher

[CMP]

Atramor blinks. They were to crown - in a way - the ruler of an entire country? Definitely a rather unexpected turn, even if they were heroes. He grasped his chin, looking down at the ground for a few moments, before looking back up at Septrine.

"From what I can tell...ya' seem to handle most of the city's affairs, Alandri with the business in countries outside of Dastan, and Rolando seems to have been the most militaristic emperor. He's clearly had a lotta shortfalls, but, well, ya'll have to have a good military leader if you want to maintain power, no doubt people will hear how close Drakencourt came to fallin'. My answer's fairly obvious, all of this considered: I think Phil should become the third emperor. No doubt you'd be an effective ruler, you embody what Dastan stands for, mate."

[Fred Daniel Yam]

OOC: Is it just me? Or are all the photos down?

IC: William is no longer drooling on the floor uncontrollably. "AH, at last, I can walk."

[Rumble Strike]

"Assuming the Emperor must be from Dastan, which rules any of us out, then I agree that Phil - Victor as you know him here - embodies the heart and spirit of this great land. He should be chosen."

Edited August 16, 2012 by Rumble Strike

[Fred Daniel Yam]

"Everyone seems to like Phil, so I say Phil is the optimal choice."

[Pandora]

The fire rises once more as XX flees the scene, but this time it manifests as warmth in Nyx's cheeks as she blushes at XX's compliment. She stifles a smile herself, thinking back to the dance of their battle, and watches as he blows yet more stuff up. "He sure knows how to make an exit..." she thinks to herself as he slips away. As Skrall hands out the loot from the epic battle, she twirls the new staff in her hands; it felt right - it matched her, and... it had been his. They both liked playing with fire, and this would bring her closer to the source of her magics and remind her of the events in Dastan; plus she now had the strength to deal with the staff's drawbacks. It really did just feel right, so she nods a thanks to the large ogre before he and the other heroes depart for their own business. She waves goodbye to old friends and new; smiling at Galen, Cronk, Nerwen and the Rito, although everyone's in such a rush she doubts they see her.

As always, Phil knows exactly where they need to be, and ensures they get there, and soon they are all face to face with Wren. Sure, Wren was annoying and self-righteous, and clearly demented, but Nyx catches herself nodding as she speaks of the world being pretty when it burns, and has to frown and exaggerate shaking her head to demonstrate disagreement. There had been so much carnage that the death of U'Vires seemed almost insignificant - poor misguided fool killing his own to try to free his own. As if sensing the need for clear air and a new beginning, Nyx is enthralled to see the great dragons of Dastan swooping across the skies, making their presence felt in the empire once more. She grins widely; she would have been sorely disappointed to come all the way to Dastan and not see the dragons, Vipera notwithstanding. Just as she feels that they have completed their tasks, she is stunned to hear the Emperor's final request, and listens as her companions make their assertions.

Resisting the urge to shout "Pick me!", she steps forward, curtseying gracefully to each Dastanian.

"Sire, I thank you for the reward you give us, and it is an honour to be tasked with such a decision as this. Firstly may I say: Ella, if you are the future of Dastan then we can leave these shores knowing it will be carefully looked after, similarly Mallelio your teachings and instruction have clearly been invaluable. Sir Poletad, you are a fearless fighter and the bravest frog I have ever had the pleasure to meet. (I hope you can understand me!) Felton, it has been a privilege to fight at your side, you are a true warrior, and Vipera it has been an honour to meet you and see your kin in glorious flight here."

Nyx turns back to Emperor Septrine, bowing.

"My lord, you say we are good judges of character, then may I speak in favour of the U'Kin and the Rito? They, along with the other minorities here in Dastan, are good people, and should feel part of your great empire, not segregated and outside. If you will ask us to name your fellow emperor, please hear us when we entreat you for greater integration within your societies and cooperation of your peoples. I believe this will only make Dastan even greater. I agree with my comrades, Phil (Victor) has, I believe, the qualities you are looking for, and he has the support of the dragons, possibly one of the greatest forces here in Dastan. I believe he will help you lead Dastan into the future and prove a strengthening bond in your trinity. And if he puts a foot wrong we'll come back and kick his big behind. Your majesty. "

[Professor Flitwick]

"Whilst I agree with my comgrades in saying that Mr. Phil is a man of valour, bravery and countless other admirable qualities warranted in an emperor, and should be rewarded greatly for his services to Dastan, but I must state that I believe there is a better candidate, though I know not of their name. This is the U'Kin's homeland, and they mandate a proper representation amongst the emperors, in order to be able to properly fix their plight. Now that U'Stus has past, who is the acting leader of the peaceful party of the U'Kin? I suggest they would make a suitable replacement for the future of Dastan to be fairer."

[Zepher]

"The U'Kin have no leader right now. With U'Vires and U'Stus dead... they have not rallied once more. However, there is good news on that front. The U'Kin you saw me with a short while ago has been promoted to the Head of the Dragon Knights, a position that no U'Kin has ever held. It will grant him the ability to advise the Emperors as well. Between him, myself, and Ella, we can promise you that change is coming, but if you wish to elevate him even higher, it may not be bad."

[Professor Flitwick]

"Whilst that is good news, Mr. Mallelio, I believe we should go one better, and create the first U'Kin emperor. Perhaps Mr. Phyllius can replace this U'Kin as Head of the Dragon Knights? I assume that it outranks his current position of Head Advisor, as you stated that this new U'Kin currently holds advisory powers to the Emperors. What with Mr. Phyllius' good standing amongst the Dragons, it seems it would be an ideal career move, in my opinion. What do my fellow heroes think of this?"

[Rumble Strike]

"I admire your conviction on this, Mr Thothwick, but I still feel Phil is a better choice. We have all fought alongside him and know how much he cares for his homeland. The U'Kin will be in turmoil with the deaths of U'Stus and U'Vires. It is a big step for a U'Kin to be Head of the Dragon Knights. I believe it is a great starting point for a more inclusive Dastan. I think promoting a U'Kin we don't personally know to this key position would be the wrong thing to do."

[Professor Flitwick]

"I respect your views, Mr. Tarn, and I agree with them in part. Mr. Phyllius has done an awful lot to help us, and as I previously stated, merits proper reward. But, if we're talking about fixing the plight of the U'Kin, it is my belief that a U'Kin knows what is for the best. Whom do you think understand famine more, the one whose starving, or the one whose watching? I am going to stand by my decision that the new Emperor should be this new U'Kin, but we shall come to a conclusion via a majority decision, and if you all decide to vote for Mr. Phyllius, I shall understand, and be happy to see a good human crowned Emperor. However, I implore you to think of the minorities in this society, and how an U'Kin's nomination will go a long way."

Thothwick turns to Mr. Phyllius, the likeliest nomination to be Emperors.

"Mr. Phyllius, I do hope you don't consider my lobbying of this new U'Kin - if I may ask, what is his name? - to be and affront upon you and your services."

[Zepher]

"I do not take offence Thothwick, but it appears that your friends would see me crowned. I do not know how to be an Emperor, but I will learn. I will, however, do what Thothwick knows to be just. I am an older man, and have served my country all my life, taking no wife and having no children to call my own. I will go to the U'Kin district and find U'Stus' closest adviser, and I will name him my successor. I may not be a U'Kin myself, but I will pave the path that is required. When Ella takes over to Severus, and when my young U'Kin takes over for me, a new age will certainly dawn in Dastan. An age you will have helped to create."

"Victor, it is my pleasure to accept you as the third Emperor of Dastan. Let's start talking ceremonies.

The two men walk off. Mallelio walks up to the heroes and shakes each of their hands solemnly.

"Thank you, and may we meet again."

Mallelio also makes his way back into the Palace. Ella gives Nyx a big hug, shakes Thothwick and William's hands, and pecks Atramor and Tarn on the cheek with a kiss. She then smiles wanely and follows the rest of the Dastanian nobles into their gutted palace.

"Well, I think we know by now we will be seeing you soon enough. Give the heroes our regards, and keep an eye out."

The heroes nod, and are ushered down to the carriage that will take them to the coast. They glance back one last time - dragons soar, and the city stands gleaming.

The Party:

Thothwick (Professor Flitwick)

Level 19 Rouge

Power:

27

Defense:

0

Health:

30/30

Gold:

857

Equipment:

Sabre (WP: 8), Cultist's Hat (regular attacks do Damage to Undead), Fire Amulet (Artifact, Accessory, each attack causes double damage to enemies weak against fire)

Inventory:

Whip Chain (WP: 6), Shuriken (WP: 5), Bedroll, Telescope, Dragon Scale

Nyx (Pandora)

Level 21.66 Battle Mage

*Immune to Asleep-effect*

Power:

34

Defense:

0

Health:

31/31

Ether:

19/26

Gold:

290

Equipment:

Book of a Thousand Creatures (WP: 13; each roll has a 1/6 chance to summon a creature to aid the hero), Shiny Helmet (+1 max Health), Sandman's Parasol (immune to

Asleep

)

Inventory:

Dawnstar II (WP: 9), Healing Staff (WP: 5; healing effect), Wooden Shield (SP:2), Ruby (

Fire

), Amethyst (

Darkness

), Topaz (

Lightning

), Sapphire (

Wind

), Emerald (

Wood

), Garnet (

Earth

), Scroll of Weakening, Potion, Remedy, Tonics (2), Grand Tonics (2), Holy Bomb, Bones (5), Ether Core, Bedroll, Explosive Staff – WP: 12 (Does 1/2 damage to all enemies on a successful hit (normal damage to targeted enemy) and 1/2 WP damage to self on a roll of 4 (disregarding SP/row)), Bomb XX, Dragon Scale

Atramor Gibbin (CallMePie)

Level 21.33 Witch

Power:

31

Defense:

0

Health:

24/24 (-14 for remainder of Quest)

Ether:

6/10 (-9 for remainder of Quest)

Gold:

402

Equipment:

Ratsbane (WP: 10; +2 Health on successful hit;

Fire

,

Ice

,

Earth

,

Wind

), Witch's Talisman (Poisoned attacks become Badly Poisoned), Ancient Crown (gives target the

Cursed

-effect on first hit of battle)

Inventory:

Black Katana (WP: 8), Staff of the Elven Warlock (WP: 5;

Wood

), Grand Tonic, Fire Bomb, Scroll of Sealing, Scroll of Blindness, Bomb XX, Dragon Scale

Tarn Valco (Rumble Strike)

Level 17 Barbarian

Power:

30

Defense:

2

Health:

274/24

Gold:

138

Equipment:

Lion’s Heart (WP: 13,

Stuns

target on successful hits), Sand Worm Hide (SP: 2), Amulet of U'Kin Nobility (Non-Artifact Accessory, Grants Diplomacy to wearer when addressing a U'Kin)

Inventory:

Helbaerend (WP: 10;

Water

,

Ice

,

Lightning

; Hollow Blade: Remedy), Fauxthril Spear (WP: 6), Shovel, Pickaxe, Dragon Scale

William Harkenshire (VolcanicPanik)

Level 15 Ranger

Power:

20

Defense:

0

Health:

1/20

Gold:

370

Equipment:

Repeating Crossbow (WP: 5, may not be upgraded;

Fire

;

Hastened

), Horse

Inventory:

Hand Cannon (WP: 5;

Lightning

,

Wood

), Chimera Armor (Torsowear, Suitable for Knights and Barbarians, +2 SP, +2 Health), Lion Knight Shield (SP: 4; unsuitable), Sapphire (

Wind

), Remedy, Smoke Bomb, Mead, Smelling Salts, Skeleton Decoy, Venom, Elven Bomb, Magnifying Glass, Bedroll, Pickaxe, Shovel, Bomb XX, Dragon Scale

As the heroes sail away from Dastan, Vipera broadcasts one final message into their minds.

<May the Dragons set fire to your heart and fly it away.>

As they leave Dastan, all the heroes can't help but wonder if Dastan will ever really leave them.

THE QUEST WAS A SUCCESS!

Edited August 16, 2012 by Zepher

[Rumble Strike]

Tarn sighed as he left Dastan with the heroes he now considered friends. They had won the day, all of them, although the path had been long and sometimes brutal. He touched his cheek, feeling the warmth of the kiss that Ella had given him, and wondered if he would see her again.

Zeph, I think something may be up with my extrordinary high health and my middling gold balance!

Edited August 16, 2012 by Rumble Strike

[Zepher]

Side Quests

Dastan (During the Marketplace Battle)

You hear a commotion inside the marketplace, and rush towards it. Before you make nearly any progress, you are propelled backwards. A twinkling voice bubbles forward in your heads.

"Hello, darlings. You may not know me. I'm Wren. I know you two, of course. Nyx, oh, you remind me of me when I was your age. I hear you burned down an orphanage. That's such a lovely little touch, I almost die laughing every time I hear about it. Though of course, being a bastard child is something to be angry about. Oh, oops, I've said to much. And Mr. Gibbin, dear, sweet, Mr. Gibbin. I like your chicken. You're not much of a looker... but if your chicken ever wants to have a word with me, I'd love it if you sent her my way. I have never seen something like her in my entire life, and I want to know about her."

"But, oh my, don't think I've forgotten about you. You'll want to play games too of course! So, here you go. Each time that a round ends for the heroes in there, you may each submit an answer to the following riddle! If you get it right, you may join the others in the marketplace. If you get it wrong, you lose 15 gold. And yes, dears, you can go into debt to me." OoC: Seriously, you will have to pay her with gold you get later, make those guesses count. Also, imagine how silly you'll look with a debt to Wren on your stats .

Have you ever noticed how similar "R"s and "E"s are?

This name has the same number of letters as mine.

Start with a letter in my name. Go backwards through the alphabet eighteen places. Then go forward seven... no, you've messed up, go back to the beginning.

Who am I referring to?

"I don't like people talking in my head, uninvited people anyway. I don't think you're very nice. Fine, you want to play and I want to fight.

My submitted answer is 'Oleg'."

"That sounds 'bout right...'ssumin' it's wrong, though, I'm gonna take a total blind guess and say Zoot."

The voice of Wren rings out, but it seems to be not present - a phantom of her. There is no laugh, just the resonance of her that is tied to her magic.

Nyx - You had one correct letter in the correct place, and one correct letter in the wrong place.

Artamor - You had no correct letters whatsoever.

"I should set him puzzles more often, but you're probably killing more brain cells than you are bettering them. But please, go on," McCafferey chuckles softly, in a tone not unlike Wren's, through Atramor's head. He merely grumbles, indignant about her disparaging remarks, but then a thought occurs to him.

"Wouldn't be Ella, would it, 'ya crazy zealot?"

"Well that's a shame, as 'Oleg' would have been a far more elegant answer. Perhaps I overestimated you, madam. And while we're on the subject, do not presume that my early years at an orphanage make me a bastard child. My lineage is none of your concern, and you clearly know less about me than you'd like to think.

I am willing to agree with Atramor's venture of 'Ella'."

Nyx scowls as she replies out loud to Wren, but is distracted by wondering why Atramor is grumbling at his chicken.

OOC: No reflection on you, Zeph, just Wren.

Fire blazes forth from the small passage, and you both rush into it, finding your pathway unblocked.

OoC: Don't worry, Wren gets lots of hate-mail. I'm used to it.

Dastan - Wren Hunting (During the retrieval of Mallelio)

Felton, Hans and Atramor watch as the other heroes head off to go save Mallelio. Phil and Ella head back towards the Palace, Ella still noticeably upset.

The Party

Atramor Gibbin

, Level 17 1/2 Witch

Power: 27

Health: 35/35

Defense: 2

Ether: 15/15

Gold: 0

Inventory: Ratsbane, WP: 10, Sand Worm Hide, Witch's Talisman, Black Katana, WP: 8, Staff of the Elven Warlock, WP: 5, Scroll of Sealing, Bone x2, Grand Tonic, Fire Bomb, Phoenix Essence

Felton

(NPC)

Level 15 Wren Fighter

Power: 25

Health: 55/55

Gold: 0

Inventory: Rapier of Dastan (WP: 5), Phoenix Essence, Felton's Hat (+10 Health, -5 Power)

Shield – Deceive – Deals damage to enemy equal to enemy’s level x2.

Critical Hit – WPx2+Lvl

Hans

(NPC)

Level 15 1/2 Wren Fighter

Power: 24

Health: 45/45

Gold: 0

Inventory: Sword of Dastan (WP: 10), Mead, Phoenix Essence

Shield – Fury: Deals 10 damage to all enemies and collects gold equal to damage given.

Critical Hit - (Power)x2+Lvl

"Our plan of action is simple. We must try to track down Wren. I do not expect to find her today, that would be foolish to think, but perhaps we can figure out why she risked Drakencourt today, or who is funding the Assassins, or who put them in contact with the Lion Knights, and most importantly, what Wren is doing here. Wren works in shadows. We haven't been able to stop her in the past because we have been unsure of what her plans are. Start brain-storming, hero. Why is she here? What is her goal? Where would she be today? We must track her while she is near-by."

"Hmm."

Atramor rubs his chin.

"She's probably here the same reason she's always been around - screw with our heads, cause chaos, exemplify the glory of Zoot, sacrifice puppies or sommin'. What's always kinda worried me is that she always seems to have huge amounts of resources on hand, although they're never hers. Draco whats-his-face was the owner of the Arena, and she had to take over an entire town to use their soldiers and such. I'd think she's somehow manipulatin' the royalty or the Lion Knights - the rogue ones, mind you - are funneling her resources...although that's unlikely, seein' as how they haven't even reached Dastan yet. Maybe U'...the...the bad duck-thing, whatever the hell the corrupt politician and the assassin leader's name is, well, he manged to maintain popularity with his kind, right? So maybe he's somehow got money...that, or Sphinx's cult...I don't know."

"Why she's in Drakencourt today worries the hell outta me. XX made an attempt on Nikolai, Sphinx on Mallelio...Victor, Phil, whoever, mentioned U'stus is in a lotta danger 'cuz he doesn't live in the palace. I suspect she might attempt a strike at 'im, but I'm not entirely sure 'bout that either...can ya' tell me about any potentially important places around 'ere? A map would be very helpful...Also, you mentioned runnin' into Constance the first day here - did she get shipped off to the front lines already? If not, where is she?"

"You are new to playing with Wren, so I will try to explain why I think this time she is doing something different. Both other encounters you heroes have had with her, she has started. She quite literally brought you to the Arena, and then in Haddon, she dropped so many hints that we had to come. She did not indicate to anyone that she would be in Dastan. I do not believe she is here for chaotic purposes-"

"Now, hold up there Felton, she's always everywhere for chaotic purpose."

"Not this time, Hans. She wouldn't come to Dastan just for that. The question is why she came. It is clearly not to help these assassins, so what does she want? U'Stus, Phil, Ella, and Emperor Septrine are all safe inside the palace today. Phil told us that yesterday. Constance would be foolish to attack alone; even Wren has her limitations. Besides, I can think of no motive for Wren to strike at her. Nikolai was successfully sent to the front lines... we need to stop thinking within the criteria of the people of Dastan, or the assassins, and start to figure out Wren's criteria."

Felton hands Atramor a map.

"Where shall we go, hero? I have marked where we meet each morning with a red x."

"Uh...Okay. So maybe this whole Mallelio thing is a distraction, some sort of ploy to get us all out of here. But if you say she wants more than just to kill the royal family, or anything to do inside of Dastan's workings...she must be after something far more important. I'd like to head to the museum first, it sounds like a decent place to learn anything about important or useful artifacts or information that Wren could twist to her advantage. Without readin'. Assumin' that doesn't work for whatever reason, then we'll head to the library. Unless either of you have better suggestions?"

The party sets out for the Museum. Just before they arrive, a page runs by with a beautiful Golden Sword, mumbling to herself about her forgetfulness and danger and a break-in. Felton stares at her for a few seconds until she is almost out of sight.

"Constance's page," Felton states simply.

"He's got a knack for that. Names and faces, just needs them once."

Does the party want to continue to the museum or go after Constance's page.

Atramor blinks at the young page, and as Felton and Hans note she's Constance's, he can't help but call after her, walking quickly.

"HEY! What are you forgettin' about a dangerous break-in?"

The page is out of ear-shot. They must follow or not follow. It is up to them.

The party charges forward and follows the woman past the Great Market, past a few houses, until she stops. There are a number of Dragon Knights - possibly all the ones still in a city - outside a house. The house is built in a ridiculous manner. It bulges and shrinks at different points without warning, and while all the houses in Dastan are hodge-podge (even the palace) this one in particular seems thrown together.

The page stops in front of a woman, who wheels around at the sound of the party's footsteps.

"Who are you? What do you want here? This is a military operation, move along immediately or I'll have your heads."

"I'm Atramor Gibbin, Witch of Heroica and temporary Wren Hunter," he introduces, jokingly formally. "What kinda military operation is this? Something dark, possibly chaotic? And do ya' need help with it?"

"Bah, Heroica. Why Emeraldo and the others felt the need to get you involved is beyond me. I can do my job just fine. I'm sure you know who I am. Constance, commander of the Dragon Knights remaining in the city." She seems greatly off-put by Atramor's mocking. "What are you doing here? You have failed, you know. You were hired to protect five people, and while you were sleeping, one of them has been taken. Why are you still in the city? I have been put in charge of investigating Mallelio's house, you are to protect him."

There is a banging from the inside of the house, and then an unearthly howl and the sound of fire crackling. The Dragon Knights around the house keep their cool, but are clearly protruded.

"Well?"

"As we speak my companions are off saving him. Again. I simply remained behind to find Wren and prevent her from taking any more of them. And obviously-" he halts, allowing the commotion inside to ring in the air "- it's a good thing I did. Somethin' tells me ya' can't squeeze a dragon in there, so pr'haps me and my current allies should go investigate. And you should probably come too, you're supposed to be prot-" this time, it was McCafferey interrupting only his thoughts. "Don't forget what the bearded one said..." "-...er...you should come to help...smite whatever...devilry lies there."

Constance takes her sword from her page and advances on Atramor.

"I have two of my boys inside. This is my operation. You failed to complete your mission, and now you're failing to repair that mistake. I will not have you mercenaries coming in and trying to take over. You understand nothing of honor or nobility or duty. I will not allow-"

Suddenly, a window smashes on the second floor of the building and the charred body of a man tumbles down. Constance turns to it without missing a beat and glares at it.

"Clara, secure the perimeter. No one else is to enter the building. We have six Dragon Knights left in Dastan. No more of them will die. If I do not come out, send for an Imperial Mage and burn the building to the ground. Mallelio's studies should be preserved if possible, but we will not lose lives over this."

Constance kneels next to the charred skeleton.

"May the Dragons set fire to your heart and fly it away," she whispers tersely before jerking herself to her feet. She wheels to face the party. "Follow me."

The party enter's Mallelio's house. It is dark. They tip-toe through the hallways, searching each room. Finally they reach a staircase leading up to the second floor. Constance leads the way. When they arrive in Mallelio's study, Felton and Hans see a familiar sight... a Chaos Beast of Zoot.

"This one is weaker than the one in Haddon. Look at its eyes! They don't have the same soullessness... She's not collecting chaos over here. What is she doing...?"

"Oh come on Felton, live in the moment! Let's kill this thing."

"Die, Beast of the Chimera!"

The Enemies

Chaos Beast of Zoot

Type: Demon, Holy

Level: 13

Health: 300/300

Special: Chaos: 1 – 15 Damage, 2 – 30 Damage, 3 – +1 Level to Self, 4 – 15 Damage to Self, 5 – 2 Damage to each Player (Regardless of row/SP), 6 – +1 WP to Hero’s Weapon

Drops: Nothing

The Party

Atramor Gibbin

, Level 17 1/2 Witch

Power: 27

Health: 35/35

Defense: 2

Ether: 15/15

Gold: 0

Inventory: Ratsbane, WP: 10, Sand Worm Hide, Witch's Talisman, Black Katana, WP: 8, Staff of the Elven Warlock, WP: 5, Scroll of Sealing, Bone x2, Grand Tonic, Fire Bomb, Phoenix Essence

Felton

(NPC)

Level 15 Wren Fighter

Power: 25

Health: 55/55

Gold: 0

Inventory: Rapier of Dastan (WP: 5), Phoenix Essence, Felton's Hat (+10 Health, -5 Power)

Shield – Deceive – Deals damage to enemy equal to enemy’s level x2.

Critical Hit – WPx2+Lvl

Hans

(NPC)

Level 15 1/2 Wren Fighter

Power: 25

Health: 45/45

Gold: 0

Inventory: Sword of Dastan (WP: 10), Mead, Phoenix Essence

Shield – Fury: Deals 10 damage to all enemies and collects gold equal to damage given.

Critical Hit - (Power)x2+Lvl

Constance

(NPC)

Level 15 Dragon Knight

Power: 25

Health: 30/30

Gold: 150

Inventory: Dragon Heart (WP: 10, Fire/Wind Elemental), Mead x2, Nostrum, Dragon Scale

Shield – Heart of the Dragon: Does 10 damage to target and burns them, dealing another 2 damage at the end of each round.

Critical Hit - WP x3 +Lvl

Atramor raises an eyebrow in mild surprise as the body lands next to him, satisfied when Constance agrees to accompany the group inside.

"Let's go."

He walks along with the Wren Hunters and the Dragon Leader to a terrible creature - a monstrous, chaotic contradiction. He hacks at the Chaos Beast from the front row without question.

Is it too much to assume that Jinxing it will allow me to level up, with a lot of luck and a roll of 3?

OoC: As the only player, feel free to post any battle order you feel like! And... we'll see what happens about his special . Finally, note I've changed some of the NPCs power ranking... I randomly did the math for Felton's very wrong...

Round One of Chaos Beast Battle

Atramor v. Chaos Beast - Damage

Felton v. Chaos Beast - Hit

Hans v. Chaos Beast - Special Damage

Constance v. Chaos Beast - Shield

The battle commences. The Chaos Beast smashes his ax into Atramor, sending him flying into a number of glass bottles that shatter (-11). A meow is heard and the room smells suddenly of the ocean. Felton narrows his eyes and artfully slices the beast's leg (-15). Hans is unable to land a hit as the creature centers itself (+1 lvl). Constance starts up strong, raising her sword and shooting a flame that looks much like the face of a Dragon towards the Beast. It passes through the beast, searing it and leaving its robes on fire (-10). The burning robes do further damage (-2).

The Enemies

Chaos Beast of Zoot

*Burned*

Type: Demon, Holy

Level: 14

Health: 273/300

Special: Chaos: 1 – 15 Damage, 2 – 30 Damage, 3 – +1 Level to Self, 4 – 15 Damage to Self, 5 – 2 Damage to each Player (Regardless of row/SP), 6 – +1 WP to Hero’s Weapon

Drops: Nothing

The Party

Atramor Gibbin

, Level 17 1/2 Witch

Power: 27

Health: 24/35

Defense: 2

Ether: 15/15

Gold: 0

Inventory: Ratsbane, WP: 10, Sand Worm Hide, Witch's Talisman, Black Katana, WP: 8, Staff of the Elven Warlock, WP: 5, Scroll of Sealing, Bone x2, Grand Tonic, Fire Bomb, Phoenix Essence

Felton

(NPC)

Level 15 Wren Fighter

Power: 15

Health: 55/55

Gold: 0

Inventory: Rapier of Dastan (WP: 5), Phoenix Essence, Felton's Hat (+10 Health, -5 Power)

Shield – Deceive – Deals damage to enemy equal to enemy’s level x2.

Critical Hit – WPx2+Lvl

Hans

(NPC)

Level 15 1/2 Wren Fighter

Power: 25

Health: 45/45

Gold: 0

Inventory: Sword of Dastan (WP: 10), Mead, Phoenix Essence

Shield – Fury: Deals 10 damage to all enemies and collects gold equal to damage given.

Critical Hit - (Power)x2+Lvl

Constance

(NPC)

Level 15 Dragon Knight

Power: 25

Health: 30/30

Gold: 150

Inventory: Dragon Heart (WP: 10, Fire/Wind Elemental), Mead x2, Nostrum, Dragon Scale

Shield – Heart of the Dragon: Does 10 damage to target and burns them, dealing another 2 damage at the end of each round.

Critical Hit - WP x3 +Lvl

Atramor curses, pulling a few loose shards of glass out of his leg, before continuing his attack from the front row.

Atramor

Felton

Hans

Constance

Fair enough.

Round Two of Chaos Beast Battle

Atramor v. Chaos Beast - Hit

Felton v. Chaos Beast - Hit

Hans v. Chaos Beast - Shield

Constance v. Chaos Beast - Critical Hit

The battle continues. The party work in perfect unison. Atramor and Felton both slash a leg (-27, -15). Atramor can see the poison leak from his blade onto the Beast. Hans does an additional ten damage to the beast, who spurts out ten gold pieces. Constance follows up with another flaming smash ((10x3)+15=45). The poison and burns sizzle (-12).

The Enemies

Chaos Beast of Zoot

*Burned*

*Badly Poisoned*

Type: Demon, Holy

Level: 14

Health: 174/300

Special: Chaos: 1 – 15 Damage, 2 – 30 Damage, 3 – +1 Level to Self, 4 – 15 Damage to Self, 5 – 2 Damage to each Player (Regardless of row/SP), 6 – +1 WP to Hero’s Weapon

Drops: Nothing

The Party

Atramor Gibbin

, Level 17 1/2 Witch

Power: 27

Health: 24/35

Defense: 2

Ether: 15/15

Gold: 0

Inventory: Ratsbane, WP: 10, Sand Worm Hide, Witch's Talisman, Black Katana, WP: 8, Staff of the Elven Warlock, WP: 5, Scroll of Sealing, Bone x2, Grand Tonic, Fire Bomb, Phoenix Essence

Felton

(NPC)

Level 15 Wren Fighter

Power: 15

Health: 55/55

Gold: 0

Inventory: Rapier of Dastan (WP: 5), Phoenix Essence, Felton's Hat (+10 Health, -5 Power)

Shield – Deceive – Deals damage to enemy equal to enemy’s level x2.

Critical Hit – WPx2+Lvl

Hans

(NPC)

Level 15 1/2 Wren Fighter

Power: 25

Health: 45/45

Gold: 10

Inventory: Sword of Dastan (WP: 10), Mead, Phoenix Essence

Shield – Fury: Deals 10 damage to all enemies and collects gold equal to damage given.

Critical Hit - (Power)x2+Lvl

Constance

(NPC)

Level 15 Dragon Knight

Power: 25

Health: 30/30

Gold: 150

Inventory: Dragon Heart (WP: 10, Fire/Wind Elemental), Mead x2, Nostrum, Dragon Scale

Shield – Heart of the Dragon: Does 10 damage to target and burns them, dealing another 2 damage at the end of each round.

Critical Hit - WP x3 +Lvl

As long as we're all over 10 health, you can autoplay the rounds.

Atramor twists Ratsbane out out of the Beast's knee, but drives upward again from the front row.

"Just keep this up, this'll be over in no time."

OoC: This really will be over in no time. I didn't autoplay as you could technically be Ko'd next round.

Round Three of Chaos Beast Battle

Atramor v. Chaos Beast - Damage

Felton v. Chaos Beast - Critical Hit

Hans v. Chaos Beast - Miss

Constance v. Chaos Beast - Shield

The battle continues. The party, after a well coordinated round of attacks, is slammed back. Atramor attempts to make his way up to the Beast's torso, but the Beast uses the butt of it's ax to smash Atramor into the floor before flicking him across the room (-12). Felton stikes at the beast with the precision of a practiced expert (-25) though he blocks Hans in the confined space. Constance shoots forward her fiery apparition once more (-10). The poison and burns sizzle (-12).

The Enemies

Chaos Beast of Zoot

*Burned*

*Badly Poisoned*

Type: Demon, Holy

Level: 14

Health: 127/300

Special: Chaos: 1 – 15 Damage, 2 – 30 Damage, 3 – +1 Level to Self, 4 – 15 Damage to Self, 5 – 2 Damage to each Player (Regardless of row/SP), 6 – +1 WP to Hero’s Weapon

Drops: Nothing

The Party

Atramor Gibbin

, Level 17 1/2 Witch

Power: 27

Health: 12/35

Defense: 2

Ether: 15/15

Gold: 0

Inventory: Ratsbane, WP: 10, Sand Worm Hide, Witch's Talisman, Black Katana, WP: 8, Staff of the Elven Warlock, WP: 5, Scroll of Sealing, Bone x2, Grand Tonic, Fire Bomb, Phoenix Essence

Felton

(NPC)

Level 15 Wren Fighter

Power: 15

Health: 55/55

Gold: 0

Inventory: Rapier of Dastan (WP: 5), Phoenix Essence, Felton's Hat (+10 Health, -5 Power)

Shield – Deceive – Deals damage to enemy equal to enemy’s level x2.

Critical Hit – WPx2+Lvl

Hans

(NPC)

Level 15 1/2 Wren Fighter

Power: 25

Health: 45/45

Gold: 10

Inventory: Sword of Dastan (WP: 10), Mead, Phoenix Essence

Shield – Fury: Deals 10 damage to all enemies and collects gold equal to damage given.

Critical Hit - (Power)x2+Lvl

Constance

(NPC)

Level 15 Dragon Knight

Power: 25

Health: 30/30

Gold: 150

Inventory: Dragon Heart (WP: 10, Fire/Wind Elemental), Mead x2, Nostrum, Dragon Scale

Shield – Heart of the Dragon: Does 10 damage to target and burns them, dealing another 2 damage at the end of each round.

Critical Hit - WP x3 +Lvl

Aren't NPCs supposed to be the human shields? Yeah, that's an upside to having a single player miniquest. If I'm lucky, I'll be back in time to jump into the first battle.

Atramor grunts as he slams into a wall, a trickle of blood running down his head. He shakily gets to his feet, silently cursing the beast, but forced to heal himself for the moment.

"Chaos Beast indeed...mhh, I should get one of those..."

Atramor

Felton

Hans

Constance

Round Four of Chaos Beast Battle

Atramor heals himself - Heal More

Felton v. Chaos Beast - Hit

Hans v. Chaos Beast - Special Damage (1)

Constance v. Chaos Beast - Hit

The battle continues. Atramor heals himself successfully as orange colored magic flows around him and crackles. Felton once more scores a hit (-15) though the beast lunges at Hans and whacks his arm with his ax. Blood showers outwards onto one of the walls as Hans grinds his teeth, refusing to show pain (-15). Constance calmly walks forward, shoves the beast backwards and stabs him in the chest (-25). Burns and poison do what they've been doing (-12).

The Enemies

Chaos Beast of Zoot

*Burned*

*Badly Poisoned*

Type: Demon, Holy

Level: 14

Health: 75/300

Special: Chaos: 1 – 15 Damage, 2 – 30 Damage, 3 – +1 Level to Self, 4 – 15 Damage to Self, 5 – 2 Damage to each Player (Regardless of row/SP), 6 – +1 WP to Hero’s Weapon

Drops: Nothing

The Party

Atramor Gibbin

, Level 17 1/2 Witch

Power: 27

Health: 35/35

Defense: 2

Ether: 14/15

Gold: 0

Inventory: Ratsbane, WP: 10, Sand Worm Hide, Witch's Talisman, Black Katana, WP: 8, Staff of the Elven Warlock, WP: 5, Scroll of Sealing, Bone x2, Grand Tonic, Fire Bomb, Phoenix Essence

Felton

(NPC)

Level 15 Wren Fighter

Power: 15

Health: 55/55

Gold: 0

Inventory: Rapier of Dastan (WP: 5), Phoenix Essence, Felton's Hat (+10 Health, -5 Power)

Shield – Deceive – Deals damage to enemy equal to enemy’s level x2.

Critical Hit – WPx2+Lvl

Hans

(NPC)

Level 15 1/2 Wren Fighter

Power: 25

Health: 30/45

Gold: 10

Inventory: Sword of Dastan (WP: 10), Mead, Phoenix Essence

Shield – Fury: Deals 10 damage to all enemies and collects gold equal to damage given.

Critical Hit - (Power)x2+Lvl

Constance

(NPC)

Level 15 Dragon Knight

Power: 25

Health: 30/30

Gold: 150

Inventory: Dragon Heart (WP: 10, Fire/Wind Elemental), Mead x2, Nostrum, Dragon Scale

Shield – Heart of the Dragon: Does 10 damage to target and burns them, dealing another 2 damage at the end of each round.

Critical Hit - WP x3 +Lvl

Round Five of Chaos Beast Battle

Atramor v. Chaos Beast - Hit

Felton v. Chaos Beast - Hit

Hans v. Chaos Beast - Shield

Constance v. Chaos Beast - Damage

The battle continues. Atramor stabs the Beast in the chest, completing his goal from two rounds ago. He widens the hole that Constance made and black smog begins to billow out (-27). Felton stabs his rapier into the spot too (-15). Hans stabs the beast as well, and gold pours forward (-10). The Beast stabs Constance, who is only nicked before she parries and throws the ax backwards (-14).

The Enemies

Chaos Beast of Zoot

*Burned*

*Badly Poisoned*

Type: Demon, Holy

Level: 14

Health: 23/300

Special: Chaos: 1 – 15 Damage, 2 – 30 Damage, 3 – +1 Level to Self, 4 – 15 Damage to Self, 5 – 2 Damage to each Player (Regardless of row/SP), 6 – +1 WP to Hero’s Weapon

Drops: Nothing

The Party

Atramor Gibbin

, Level 17 1/2 Witch

Power: 27

Health: 35/35

Defense: 2

Ether: 14/15

Gold: 0

Inventory: Ratsbane, WP: 10, Sand Worm Hide, Witch's Talisman, Black Katana, WP: 8, Staff of the Elven Warlock, WP: 5, Scroll of Sealing, Bone x2, Grand Tonic, Fire Bomb, Phoenix Essence

Felton

(NPC)

Level 15 Wren Fighter

Power: 15

Health: 55/55

Gold: 0

Inventory: Rapier of Dastan (WP: 5), Phoenix Essence, Felton's Hat (+10 Health, -5 Power)

Shield – Deceive – Deals damage to enemy equal to enemy’s level x2.

Critical Hit – WPx2+Lvl

Hans

(NPC)

Level 15 1/2 Wren Fighter

Power: 25

Health: 30/45

Gold: 20

Inventory: Sword of Dastan (WP: 10), Mead, Phoenix Essence

Shield – Fury: Deals 10 damage to all enemies and collects gold equal to damage given.

Critical Hit - (Power)x2+Lvl

Constance

(NPC)

Level 15 Dragon Knight

Power: 25

Health: 16/30

Gold: 150

Inventory: Dragon Heart (WP: 10, Fire/Wind Elemental), Mead x2, Nostrum, Dragon Scale

Shield – Heart of the Dragon: Does 10 damage to target and burns them, dealing another 2 damage at the end of each round.

Critical Hit - WP x3 +Lvl

Round Six of Chaos Beast Battle

Atramor v. Chaos Beast - Special Damage (Jinx) (1)

Felton v. Chaos Beast - Critical Hit

Hans v. Chaos Beast - Critical Hit

Constance v. Chaos Beast - Miss

The battle continues. Atramor confuses the beast into hitting itself (-15). Felton cleanly lops off the Beast's head. Black smoke shoots out of it's neck and then it dissolves into block soot, which hangs in the air for a few seconds before lighting flame. Two seconds later, the Beast is totally gone. The heroes stand panting.

The Battle is Victorious!

The Party

Atramor Gibbin

, Level 18 Witch

Power: 28

Health: 36/36

Defense: 2

Ether: 15/16

Gold: 0

Inventory: Ratsbane, WP: 10, Sand Worm Hide, Witch's Talisman, Black Katana, WP: 8, Staff of the Elven Warlock, WP: 5, Scroll of Sealing, Bone x2, Grand Tonic, Fire Bomb, Phoenix Essence

Felton

(NPC)

Level 15 1/2 Wren Fighter

Power: 15

Health: 55/55

Gold: 0

Inventory: Rapier of Dastan (WP: 5), Phoenix Essence, Felton's Hat (+10 Health, -5 Power)

Shield – Deceive – Deals damage to enemy equal to enemy’s level x2.

Critical Hit – WPx2+Lvl

Hans

(NPC)

Level 16 Wren Fighter

Power: 26

Health: 31/46

Gold: 20

Inventory: Sword of Dastan (WP: 10), Mead, Phoenix Essence

Shield – Fury: Deals 10 damage to all enemies and collects gold equal to damage given.

Critical Hit - (Power)x2+Lvl

Constance

(NPC)

Level 15 1/2 Dragon Knight

Power: 25

Health: 16/30

Gold: 150

Inventory: Dragon Heart (WP: 10, Fire/Wind Elemental), Mead x2, Nostrum, Dragon Scale

Shield – Heart of the Dragon: Does 10 damage to target and burns them, dealing another 2 damage at the end of each round.

Critical Hit - WP x3 +Lvl

"It is a good thing that I accompanied you to vanquish that Beast. You mercenaries could not do it alone. Do you receive formal training? It doesn't look like it. You may clear the premises, my boys will come in and do quick sweep."

Felton shoots her a wary look.

"Do not allow them in yet, ma'm. Hans and I are well versed in dealing with Wren. That was her creature. We must figure out why she was here."

"To take Mallelio while he and your mercenaries was sleeping. Isn't that clear?"

"She could care less about Mallelio or you or Dastan. She serves a greater purpose. We need to know why she is here. That is our duty. We need to know what she took, and how she's here in Drakencourt, and what she's doing in Dastan. I do not want 'your boys' to disrupt our search."

Constance stares him down.

"You have less than a minute. You don't command me, Felton. You aren't even here on the Emperor's orders." She exits quickly. Hans and Felton start to look around.

"Sometimes you give me the willies, Felton."

"Thank you, Hans. We need to figure out what she took quickly and keep moving. She's still in Drakencourt... and I have other things I want to investigate while we're in the city for the day. She left this Beast to distract us. But from what? Oh, this is useless, how are we supposed to figure out what she took? I have no idea what he had in the room before!"

Atramor glares at Constance as she left. Truly the epitome of a noble knight's haughtiness. Formal training, bah...he sheaths Ratsbane, not even bother to cleaning the glimmering dagger in haste.

"We're in his study, it probably ain't worth lookin' anywhere else with the time we've got. Just in case, lock the door..."

He immediately sets about to examining the room, including the crate and the transparent blue object (in the Chaos Beast picture), notably for any empty pedestals or display cases, possibly random gaps in any bookshelves.

"Don't have a bloody clue what I'm lookin' for, but it must be important..."

All the while, he mentally plays through everything Mallelio's told the party. A certain affinity with dragons, yes...perhaps she did seek to control them.

I should have 28 power.

Atramor searches the study feverishly. Strangely, minus the smashed table, the shattered vials, a few strewn plants, and a potion or two leaking on the floor, everything is in it's proper place. Everything on the bookshelf is in it's place except for one or two gaps on the bottom row. The bottom row is filled with hardbound leather journals. Atramor picks one out and flips through it idly. It seems to just be the ramblings of Mallelio. He notices that the missing journals would both probably be from this year or the last. Felton and Hans read over his shoulder.

"What in the world would she want with personal journals?"

"Maybe she's lonely and wants to know what Mallelio's life is like? Though she may have ended the story this morning unless the heroes are successful."

"Clever as always, Hans. We must remember to ask him what he wrote in there when he returns. If he returns."

Would the party like to search anything else before heading out?

Atramor sighs, rubbing his temples, while McCafferey pecks halfheartedly at the Chaos Beast's corpse.

"Leads us right back to Mallelio....at least we (sorta) know what she's after. It would be best to ask him once we find him...or we could find a different source. Pr'haps we should pay a quick visit to Ella Septrine, I believe she knew Mallelio well...unless either of you have a better idea. What other investigations were you talkin' about before?"

Nevermind...I checked, and I've had a random extra health since Quest 23. I picked it up between quests, too...

Nevermind...I checked, and I've had a random extra health since Quest 23. I picked it up between quests, too...

OoC: Is it related to your Nutritious Banana?

The party makes it's way back to the Palace. They walk in without any trouble, Felton simply nods to one of the guards.

"We are lucky to have Phil on our side," he remarks.

The party makes it's way through the hallways of the Palace. In the King's Audience Hall and Grand Chamber, the party sees him talking with a U'Kin, who Atramor recognizes as U'Stus, and Phil. Felton beckons to Phil, who quickly breaks off from the conversation and exchanges a word or two with him. Felton then leads them to the second floor of the castle, to a backroom. The door is flung open, and Ella is inside. In front of her is a blue bowl filled with mist that she whispers to softly.

Before the party can say a word, she turns around.

"Hello, Felton, Hans, Atramor. How is the hunt coming? You need me for something?" The party begins to step into the small room, but Ella stops them. She walks up to McCaffrey. "Hello little feathered one," she says quietly. "I'm so sorry, but you are not permitted into my study. I tolerate you in big spaces, but there is already enough magic in this room. I will not flatter with myself by saying that I understand what you are, because I don't, but I can tell you that on the Ether plane, if one is looking, you have quite a bit of power. In the Energy Pools that the Dragons watch, you register even more strongly. Perhaps you are not as used to hiding yourself on that plane? Be careful, or Vipera will have you out of Dastan." She allows the others in, leaving the chicken at the door. "How may I help you?"

I counted that...I think I just messed up somewhere. In any case, it's fixed now, 35 health is correct. Also, I've never actually seen a QM be more involved with any player's roleplaying. :thumbup: Kudos for that.

"My power resides elsewhere, but my kind is indeed naturally potent with Ether. I will abide by your refusal of admittance, but I urge you not to bring dragons into this," she notes quietly, to both Atramor and Ella.

Atramor stares as the young prophet actually manages to keep McCafferey out of his and Dastan's business. It's a level of respect he'd not once seen his companion expose to anyone.

"Uh...thanks."

He blinks, walking inside as McCafferey perches herself on an empty torch bracket in the hall.

"Well, er, my allies are off looking for Mallelio, as you know. Me and the others here, though, investigated his house with Constance. We found one of Wren's ruinous beasts, and took it out...the only thing Wren seems to have taken is his most recent personal journals. Is there anythin' in the past year or so that Mallelio's discovered that might be beneficial to her? I think it might have somethin' to do with the Dragon's Tooth, but..."

Ella shakes her head sadly.

"It can't be the Dragon Tooth," she tells the heroes as she rummages through the recesses of her own study and brings out a single journal, matching the others in Mallelio's study. "Last night, after you returned, Mallelio handed me his research on the Dragon Tooth. But that wouldn't account for all the journals missing... I love Mallelio, but to be honest, in the past year or so, he hasn't done nearly anything of note. He's sunk most of his time into training me, and has had a number of failures. He tried to create an antidote for the Grey Plague, something that years ago that swept Dastan. i don't know if you had it over in Uland. He failed, though. That's the only thing I can think of... and I can't imagine Wren needing that, can you? Other than that... well, he's let me read through them from time to time. Just personal musings, jokes that are half-thought up, reviews of my progress, what he ate for the day sometimes... he's not very discriminate about what he keeps in them."

"I'm sticking with the theory that she needed companionship."

Atramor groans, slapping a hand to his head. The Gray Plague again?

"Well, I've made sure myself that can't pose a threat again...Hans, I dunno if you're joking or not, but as far as I can tell, Mallelio is the first person she's given a damn about other than herself. He was already kidnapped and his studies searched by the time she told us, I'm sure, but I don't know if it's a distraction. Gaahh, I don't bloody understand..."

He rubs his eyes.

"I don't suppose it's worth askin' whether you've had any interestin' visions lately? If not, I don't think there's much else we can learn here."

"I leave the real thinking to you and Felton. I ain't gonna pretend I know what Wren wants, I just am going to wait for one of you to point me in the right way and stop her."

"I've had many visions recently. I think it is because of the increase of magic in Dastan. The Dragons are active again, the Chimera is rising, Wren has arrived, the heroes of Heroica are here..."

"I have seen armies clashing, but that is no shock. I have seen the Dragons fighting with something, which I pray is not the Chimera. It is still shrouded in shadow, whatever it is. I have seen a figure of great power fall into the shadows. I have seen..." here Ella's voice becomes strained and nervous. "I have seen the U'Kin battling for freedom. I have seen Wren's face, up close, though I've never seen her before today... I have seen so much, heroes. But I can never make heads or tails of it. I've seen deaths, recently. Many of them stacking. I've seen someone burn alive, howling at their killer "You serve no God!". I've seen many people frozen in a field. I have seen Eubric... I have seen the void." Ella looks at the ground, and then back up at the party. She is smiling once more. "Pretty heavy, right?" She laughs lightly. "It's something you have to learn to live with, to be sure. I'm sorry I can't be more help, Atramor, Felton, Hans."

The party steps out of her study and closes the door quietly behind them.

"Ennoc bless that young woman."

"Indeed. Shall we proceed to your original destination, Atramor? The Museum? Wren appears to be running errands, that would be a sure stop for her."

Atramor blinks again at Ella as she explains many rather intense visions, but says nothing of them, walking with Felton and Hans out into the hall. He snatches McCafferey off her perch, settling her back on his shoulder.

"She'd probably benefit from stoppin' Wren too. I suppose the museum, then, aye."

The party sets out towards the Museum. Before they arrive, they can tell something is wrong. Outside, they are greeted by a quiet older creature that Atramor doesn't recognize.

"She is an Acerpusculum. They're a very old and rare species. You can find them everywhere, you just have to look very hard. An all female species, if my memory serves me... I can't recall how they produce. Be careful what you say to her. They're creatures of few words. Unless you are precise about what you want and feel, they won't bother to respond."

"We are distraught. Museum has had break in. Dragon Knights are inside. No one may enter. Address any questions to us. If civilian, move along. If Heroica, we are to help. Constance's orders. Response?"

I'm assuming this is a Watchman reference given how people say this face looks like a character from it, but I'm afraid it's wasted on me.

Atramor blinks, running his intended words through his mind to make it fit what Felton says are he conversation preferences.

"Hmmm...I am Heroica. I am here to help. What did robbers take? I want to help Dragon Knights. Who are robbers? I wish to assist."

OoC: Nope, just an introduction of a new species. Dastan has a lot of minorities. Though I do see the resemblance of the face now. I AM a Watchmen fan (book, not movie) though this character is not based off of that.

"We are impressed. Robbers took 'Spiritus Intendere'. Not most valuable. Very small. Handheld. We had never known what it did. Lost to ages, purpose in library maybe. Constance say to answer questions, but not allow in. We will abide by Dragon Knight rule. If you have any more questions, ask, if not, depart."

"Fine."

Atramor turns on his heel, sprinting to the library.

"We'll come back later if we need anything, but we gotta get to the library before the Dragons do this time...can't afford to lose out on any clues, eh, mates?"

Atramor arrives in the Library of Dastan, a long building that towers over the near-by houses. He enters, walks up a huge ornate staircase, and arrives at the front desk. Long corridors stretch out on either side, and go so far that they fade to darkness eventually. This Library clearly outweighs the Heroica one in terms of collected knowledge.

"Hello, greetings, what can I do to assist you who have just entered my library? We have a wealth of knowledge in my library we have a wealth of knowledge. What do you require from my library? I can guide you, as you will get lost in the knowledge if you do not have me as your guide, which I will happily do. Where can I take you? What do you need to learn about?"

Atramor looks around. The quiet, serene building was not what he expected. McCafferey just looks interested in the seemingly endless store of information.

"Er, hello. Do you know a fellow named Mallelio, and if so, could 'ya point out what sections or books he was most often hangin' around? Also, do you have any volumes on a 'Spiritus Intendere'?"

"Mallelio? Nearly everyone in Drakencourt knows Mallelio! Mallelio is one of the most influential figures in Drakencourt is Mallelio! He visits the library often for many different reasons he visits the library. Spiritus Intendere? Yes, we do have volumes on that. A young lady was just in here earlier looking for that, I believe, a young lady was just in here. I will show you to the books if you want, I think she may still be here with the books, which I will show you to if you want."

"That'd be appreciated, mate."

"Curses, no chaos beast...it'd be befitting for you to get ahold of one of those Playthings, you know. This Wren intrigues me..." she thought, to her companion.

Atramor blinks, thinking in reply to his chicken. One of those what?

"Nevermind."

"...Right, well, er, I'm sure we'd like to see Ella and/or these volumes."

The party is led to the back of the Museum, and the U'Kin points into one of the little nooks off of the main corridor.

"The books are in there. Please leave everything as you found it, and don't disturb our other patrons, and leave everything as you found it. Thank you."

The party steps into the nook, though they are not greeted by the same young woman they thought they would be.

"Hello, my lovelies. I was afraid you weren't coming. Please, take a seat, and remember, be quiet, we are in a library." Wren giggles, high pitched and whiny. Her eyes sparkle and her face is twisted into a smile. She winks to Atramor as she closes her book. "They have an extensive library here. Did you know that they have more information on the Orcish invasion here than at the Heroica Library? Shocking, isn't it?" She holds up her book to show off the title "The End of Ennon". "I've been here once before, you know, in Dastan. Needed to gather some information, I just returned a book I borrowed on this little sweetie." She holds up the Spiritus Intendere. "Right after I left Heroica in disgrace, this is where I came. I probably ran into Victor here too, so strange, a few years later I'd steal him from a small High Kingdoms town... have you ever asked him about how he ended up in my Arena? It's a charming story, actually. Now, how can I help you?"

"Brilliant," Hans growls.

"Hans! Now now, don't be angry. Felton, control your dog."

Felton sits down calmly at one of the four chairs surrounding Wren's table.

"I'm assuming you've prevented us from fighting?" he asks.

"Not at all. But it would be foolish for just the three of you to fight me, especially in this library. Imagine if the books get hurt. That would be aaaaaaawwwwwffffffuuuuuullll."

"Then we are going to play a game?" Felton continues cooly.

"Oh, my dear dear Felton, are we ever not playing a game, you me and the heroes? Sit down, sit down." Hans and Atramor sit.

"This is where I tag out," Hans tells Atramor quietly. "I ain't gonna pretend I'm as smart as her or Felton. This is their arena."

"What are the rules?"

"Simple, dear, simple. I'm sure you've come to your own conclusions as to how I'm here, why I'm here. I'm just going to help confirm or deny these suspicions. So, here's the game. You ask me yes or no questions. I answer them, yes or no."

"The twist?"

"Ah, Felton, you really are a dearie. You know me so well. Atramor is the only one allowed to ask questions, and for every question he asks, he loses 1 health and 1 ether... for the remainder of the quest, that is. Don't worry, it will be restored when you leave Dastan, but while you're here, you'll bear my curse."

"Very well.

Atramor eyes Wren with disgust, McCafferey with interest, and while the former sits across from the witch, the chicken settles herself in the middle of the table.

"I don't care for reading, myself...it's a shame, they usually have drinks at these sorts of standoffs..." he mumbles, with some regret. "Nevertheless, I accept your challenge. I've had a list thought up, was thinking I'd be asking them while you were chained to a wall or somethin' with a hot iron on ya', but here works just as well...

1. Do you enjoy your relationship with the assassins?

2. Do you really give a damn about Mallelio?

3. Is your purpose in Dastan at least mostly for chaotic reasons?

4. Are you currently allying with the rogue Lion Knights?

5. Do you plan to betray the rogue Lion Knights?

6. Do you plan to betray the assassins?

7. Do you want the Chimera to be released upon these people?

8. Is your goal to wipe out the Dastan Empire?

9. Are you a stout follower of Zoot?

10. Do you honestly want Heroica to be destroyed?

11. Are all of your answers as accurate as they could possibly be?

And, uh, Hans, Felton, do either of ya' have any other suggestions?"

Edited August 17, 2012 by Zepher

[Zepher]

Wren smiles.

"Let's get on with it, then. I do enjoy my relationship with the assassins, greatly. I enjoy my relationships with everyone, hero. Every single person in the world has so many quirks and exciting secrets. How many people know about your Chicken? Myself, Ella, the Dragons have an idea, as do the Angels from your hall, Finnegan perhaps... that's such an exciting twist. So yes, the assassins all delight me."

"Mallelio? No, no, I'm afraid I don't 'give a damn' about him. I'm sorry. He's just not important in the grand scheme of things. He's already done all he needs to do as far as I'm concerned."

"Aren't all my purposes chaotic? Hahahaha. No, dearest, I'll be fair, never fear," Wren coos. "You've clearly read up on me. In the Arena, in Haddon, I was collecting chaos, not creating it, you lovelies do that on your own, but following it and harvesting it, yes. Dastan is indeed different. Felton knows that. You know that now too. I have more than enough Chaos. I need some other ingredients now."

"The Rogue Lion Knights? Betray them? Heavens no, I don't 'give a damn' about them either. Probably even less than I 'give a damn' about Mallelio. They and I won't cross paths I don't think. Even Lyons, who is here to assist the assassins thanks to Sir Loren's kindness won't effect me at all. I doubt we'll ever see each other, he mostly answers to Sphinx and U'Vires."

"Ah... the question of betrayal. That is a good one. It depends on what you mean by betrayal. I have no intention to prevent the assassins from doing what they wish to do... for the most part. Their over-all goal as assassins doesn't bother me at all. I am assisting them when they ask, as they're doing the same for me. So, if that's what you mean by betrayal, by turning on their over-all goal and stopping it, I have no intention of that."

"The Chimera." Wren leans in closely. "There are some things that even I must respect, my dear. Butt the question... do I want to see it ravage these people. No. I do not. You heroes seem to forget I have a goal. I am not a maniac." She laughs wickedly. "There are some things I do not even wish. The Chimera... she does not fit into my plan."

"Dastan destroyed?! No, not at all Atramor. Not even slightly. I don't think I could if I wanted to. Dastan is an old and powerful empire, I won't pretend it isn't. And as a follower of some of the oldest magics, it has been a resource to me multiple times. There is great power here in Dastan."

"Destroying Heroica is a personal step that needs to happen. In this world, everything serves a purpose to me. Heroica's time hasn't come yet, but once it has, it will take the final step and fall. I'm sorry. I loved it there too when I was there. Scheherazade makes Flaming Gumballs like no other. But Heroica's final step is it's destruction."

"And yes, my dear, my answers are entirely truthful. I do not lie, Atramor. I don't have to. You lose yourself in Chaos even when you are handed only truth, because that's the way things are."

Wren stands to leave. She tosses a book to Atramor. "This is on the Spiritus Intendere. Read up." She slowly and gracefully walks out of the library, her footsteps echoing.

Atramor allows the book to slam into his face before landing on the table, a sudden wave of fatigue overtaking him. He sways a little, but with fairly clear answers, he knows there is still more to be done in Dastan. He gazes tiredly on the book, and flips it open, reading up on all the information he can about the Spiritus Intendere and its history.

"She does so enamor the feeble minds of the lesser. Shame it's all in the name of a mere idea..."

The passage is short.

The Spiritus Intendere

Little is known about the Spiritus Intendere. Its creator and his or her original purpose has been lost to time, though it is suspected that he used it to exorcise small demons in the times of old. Though its creator is unknown, though Dastan Mages throghout the years have praised him as one of the greatest unknown Mages on all of Olegia. The Spiritus Intendere is best likened to a torture device for spirits. Once summoned, the Spiritus Intendere can force spirits to submit to the will of the user. The Spirit Intendere siphons off the ether, energy, or essence of the spirit (terms listed apply to different beliefs of the communication with the spirit world) and the user collects it. The process is long and painful to the spirit and the user alike. Its use was outlawed by Emperor Brunt. He stated:

"Never again shall the Spiritus Intendere be used by men and women of Dastan. If ever a higher spirit, the Chimera, a god, were to pass into our world, and one were to steal their power; we cannot allow this to happen."

After numerous attempts to destroy it, the Spiritus Intendere was placed in the Museum of Dastan and has remained there ever since.

Emperor Brunt is best known for the creation of "Emperor Brunt's Wall" and for "The Great Siege of Drakencourt".

Atramor stares at the page for several minutes, a look of horror evident in his exhausted eyes. McCafferey's even a bit surprised.

"She's going to absorb the power of Zoot, isn't she?" He stops, blinking hard. "She's out of her damn mind...There must be some way of stopping her, or at least getting back that thing, before she escapes...do either of you think it's possible, or d'you think I'd be of more use savin' Mallelio?"

I didn't read your latest post on the thread until after posting this, honest. It's just rare to catch Wren once she decides to leave.

OoC: The heroes are too far away from Drakencourt for you to reach them. You decided what to do with your day. You gotta stick to it.

"We have known that she is out of her mind since we first met her. The question is not how crazy she is, it is how to stop her."

"She mentioned that in Haddon, didn't she? She'll be the master of Zoot..." Hans mutters. "Are we too late? Is she gone?"

"No... no, she came to Dastan for something that she can't get on her own. She needs the assassins help or she wouldn't be working with them. There must be something harder to get at than the Spiritus Intendere. She must have some bigger goal." Felton sighs, and he looks tired beyond belief all of a sudden. "This has been a long day. Let us go report to Phil, and wait for the others to return. Sometimes I fear we are too late to stop her. Sometimes I fear she beat us before the game began."

"It's certainly possible, but screw it, what have we got to lose?"

Does the party want to do anything else before going to report to Phil and wait for the heroes to return?

Sorry, I often open other EB tabs and sort of forgot about this one...and I've afraid the half-finished reply I had on my clipboard was copied over. I think you need a break from building sets anyway.

"I know, but if she really thinks she can take the power of a god...that's just insane."

He frowned to himself, but McCafferey spoke up with amusement.

"These mere ideals have power behind them, whether they are sentient divine beings or not. It would be to much of the realm's displeasure if she were to harness it. To my kind, however, it would be akin to a chessboard being upturned, every piece flung to ruin. Amusing, but unconstructive."

Atramor threw a slight glare at her, before just scooping her up with one hand. An indignant squawk was all Hans and Felton heard as a result.

"I suppose we'll head back to the palace and to Victor, or Phil, or whatever he's called now."

Atramor leads the party back to the normal meeting place. Phil is waiting for them.

"Well, what do you have to report? I've had a hectic day, U'Stus was in for official business, Ella was worried on and off, thank you for distracting her for a short while, by the way, and Constance came in to complain about you. Please give me good news."

"Assumed most'a that...well, we found and killed a Chaos Beast at Mallelio's house, and traced it to Ella, and then to the museum, and then to the library, where we came face to face with the bitch...to put it simply, she doesn't care all that much about the royalty. She got a 'Spiritus Intendere', and I think she's plannin' to steal the power of Zoot...or somethin' to that effect."

Atramor sighs, rubbing his eyes.

"Hope the others've had luck savin' Mallelio."

"I should have gone with you. I want to take that monster down. Wren... and she got into the library! Damn that Constance. I told her that we must circulate pictures of all the assassins so that the citizens knew when to say something, but she insisted we did not. She does not want to disturb the peace. She has forgotten that the citizens of Dastan are a fighting race. She thinks only the Dragon Knights have blood that runs hot. But I have not forgotten. I may be an adviser, but my hammer hasn't gathered dust..."

"That being said, remember why you are here, hero. If Wren does not care about the royalty, stopping her will be a luxury, not an objective."

"I know. That's why all the others are gettin' Mallelio back. In any case, there's still the rest of the assassins to take down, and now we know Wren is just backin' them up, she's not part of 'em. I think if we manage to screw 'em over enough, she'll have no choice but to leave. She said herself she was still going to help the assassins, or at least, not keep them from their goal, but if there's no assassins left to help...."

Flushing Out The Culstists (During the Sphinx Battle)

Thothwick and William walk along the side of the mountain, Thothwick guided by some unseen force, feeling his way, until they reach a small cave. They can see light on the inside, and muttering flows out of it. This seems to be their destination. William dismounts (sorry, it was advise for if you were going to the top of the mountain ) and they step inside.

"Oh, look who has arrived, Mane."

"Grrrrrrrrr."

"Did you heroes kill Maw? Good. The U'Kin have no place in our order. Besides, he had already served his purpose. I assume you're here to stop our sacrifice. You will not be doing that... unless it is what the Chimera wills. In which case, it's what will happen. But I'd much prefer that the Chimera wills you dead instead of us."

The Cultists lunge at William and Thothwick.

The Enemies

Mane

Level 12 Humanoid

Health: 275/275

Special: Lion’s Mane – If targeted the following round, the hero targeting them receives 3 damage regardless of row/SP, no matter what is rolled.

Drops: x2 Fire Bombs, Potion

Claw

Level 10 Humanoid

Health: 350/350

Special: Lion’s Claw – Deals 20 damage to hero.

Drops: x2 Dragon Scales

The Party

Thothwick

, Level 16 Rouge *Party Leader*

Power: 24 (21 Ranged)

Health: 27/27

Gold: 441

Inventory - Sabre (WP 8), Whip Chain (WP 6), Shuriken (WP 5), 2 Venoms, 2 Deadly Venoms, 1 Floral Bomb, 1 Bedroll, 1 Telescope, Cultist's Hat, Phoenix Essence, Tonic, Ether Core

William Harkenshire

, Level 12 1/2 Ranger

Power: 17

Health: 17/17

Gold: 20

Inventory: Hand Cannon (WP: 5; Lightning, Wood) Repeating Crossbow (WP: 5 May not be upgraded; Fire; Hastened), Potion (3),Remedy, Smoke Bomb, Bedroll, Mead, Smelling Salts, Pickaxe, Horse, Skeleton Decoy, Shovel, Magnifying Glass, Venom, Elven Bomb, Fire Bomb, Bomb XX

OOC: Don't forget to take into account that I put some Deadly Vemon on my Shuriken before this fight, Zepher.

"Good luck, Mr. Harkenshire. Hopefully Orang Pendek will smile down upon us. I'll attack Mane from the back row, with my Shuriken."

Battle Order

Thothwick

Harkenshire

"I can't risk attacking Claw. His special can wipe me out in one move. I shoot Claw then Mane "

Cultist Battle Round One

Thothwick v. Mane - Hit

Harkenshire v. Claw - Aim (I remembered!)

Harkenshire v. Mane - Damage

The battle commences. Thothwick lets his Shuriken fly at Mane, slicing off a patch of fur (-21) and poisoning him badly. Harkenshire fires off a shot at Claw that whizzes by his ear and deafens him on one side (-5). Mane, angered, stabs at Harkenshire, opening a small cut on the ranger's stomach (-6). The poison does it's thing (-10).

The Enemies

Mane

*Badly Poisoned*

Level 12 Humanoid

Health: 254/275

Special: Lion’s Mane – If targeted the following round, the hero targeting them receives 3 damage regardless of row/SP, no matter what is rolled.

Drops: x2 Fire Bombs, Potion

Claw

Level 10 Humanoid

Health: 345/350

Special: Lion’s Claw – Deals 20 damage to hero.

Drops: x2 Dragon Scales

The Party

Thothwick

, Level 16 Rouge *Party Leader*

Power: 24 (21 Ranged)

Health: 27/27

Gold: 441

Inventory - Sabre (WP 8), Whip Chain (WP 6), Shuriken (WP 5), 2 Venoms, 1 Deadly Venom, 1 Floral Bomb, 1 Bedroll, 1 Telescope, Cultist's Hat, Phoenix Essence, Tonic, Ether Core

William Harkenshire

, Level 12 1/2 Ranger

Power: 17

Health: 11/17

Gold: 20

Inventory: Hand Cannon (WP: 5; Lightning, Wood) Repeating Crossbow (WP: 5 May not be upgraded; Fire; Hastened), Potion (3), Remedy, Smoke Bomb, Bedroll, Mead, Smelling Salts, Pickaxe, Horse, Skeleton Decoy, Shovel, Magnifying Glass, Venom, Elven Bomb, Fire Bomb, Bomb XX

"Well, Mr. Harkenshire, I hope you've got your affairs in order; I'm not sure we'll succeed here. I'll attack Mane, from the front row, with my Shuriken."

I shoot Claw then Mane "This is gonna be a real fix!" "Let's take them!"

OoC: I assume you meant Sabre, Flitty.

Cultist Battle Round Two

Thothwick v. Mane - Damage

Harkenshire v. Claw - Aim

Harkenshire v. Mane - Hit

The battle continues. Thothwick, this time, is the one who gets stabbed by Mane, who chuckles a throaty chuckle as the Metasimian stumbles back clutching his lower left ribs. Harkenshire is able to fire two succesful shots, once more clipping Claw (-5) and pounding into Mane (-17). The poison sizzles (-10).

The Enemies

Mane

*Badly Poisoned*

Level 12 Humanoid

Health: 239/275

Special: Lion’s Mane – If targeted the following round, the hero targeting them receives 3 damage regardless of row/SP, no matter what is rolled.

Drops: x2 Fire Bombs, Potion

Claw

Level 10 Humanoid

Health: 340/350

Special: Lion’s Claw – Deals 20 damage to hero.

Drops: x2 Dragon Scales

The Party

Thothwick

, Level 16 Rouge *Party Leader*

Power: 24 (21 Ranged)

Health: 15/27

Gold: 441

Inventory - Sabre (WP 8), Whip Chain (WP 6), Shuriken (WP 5), 2 Venoms, 1 Deadly Venom, 1 Floral Bomb, 1 Bedroll, 1 Telescope, Cultist's Hat, Phoenix Essence, Tonic, Ether Core

William Harkenshire

, Level 12 1/2 Ranger

Power: 17

Health: 11/17

Gold: 20

Inventory: Hand Cannon (WP: 5; Lightning, Wood) Repeating Crossbow (WP: 5 May not be upgraded; Fire; Hastened), Potion (3), Remedy, Smoke Bomb, Bedroll, Mead, Smelling Salts, Pickaxe, Horse, Skeleton Decoy, Shovel, Magnifying Glass, Venom, Elven Bomb, Fire Bomb, Bomb XX

OOC: Correct assumption, Zepher.

"I'll attack Mane, from the back row, with my Sabre! No sense getting more damage when there isn't a healer about."

"I shoot Claw then Mane."

Cultist Battle Round Three

Thothwick v. Mane - Shield

Harkenshire v. Claw - Critical Hit

Harkenshire v. Mane - Hit

The battle continues. Thothwick attacks Mane once more, shaving off huge chunks of fur (-((8x3)+16)/2=20). Harkenshire fires his normal two rounds. Practice seems to have made practice, as they both hit with precision (-(5x2)+12=22) (-17).

The Enemies

Mane

*Badly Poisoned*

Level 12 Humanoid

Health: 202/275

Special: Lion’s Mane – If targeted the following round, the hero targeting them receives 3 damage regardless of row/SP, no matter what is rolled.

Drops: x2 Fire Bombs, Potion

Claw

Level 10 Humanoid

Health: 318/350

Special: Lion’s Claw – Deals 20 damage to hero.

Drops: x2 Dragon Scales

The Party

Thothwick

, Level 16 Rouge *Party Leader*

Power: 24 (21 Ranged)

Health: 15/27

Gold: 441

Inventory - Sabre (WP 8), Whip Chain (WP 6), Shuriken (WP 5), 2 Venoms, 1 Deadly Venom, 1 Floral Bomb, 1 Bedroll, 1 Telescope, Cultist's Hat, Phoenix Essence, Tonic, Ether Core

William Harkenshire

, Level 12 1/2 Ranger

Power: 17

Health: 11/17

Gold: 20

Inventory: Hand Cannon (WP: 5; Lightning, Wood) Repeating Crossbow (WP: 5 May not be upgraded; Fire; Hastened), Potion (3), Remedy, Smoke Bomb, Bedroll, Mead, Smelling Salts, Pickaxe, Horse, Skeleton Decoy, Shovel, Magnifying Glass, Venom, Elven Bomb, Fire Bomb, Bomb XX

"Do not hide, heroes. Attack us in close quarters. You are just prolonging this battle, which has already been decided by the Chimera. Let her speed us to our destined end."

OOC: Was that part of the narrative, or is there actually a time limit to this battle?

"I'll attack Mane, from the back row, with my Sabre!"

"I shoot Claw then Mane."

OoC: Sorry, just Claw being a jerk.

Cultist Battle Round Four

Thothwick v. Mane - Special Damage

Harkenshire v. Claw - Aim

Harkenshire v. Mane - Critical Hit

The battle continues. Mane, tired of attacks, bursts into flames, conjured by himself. Thothwick falls back frightened. Harkenshire does his normal shooting magic, hitting both Claw (-5) and Mane (-(5x2)+12=22). The poison goes to work (-10).

The Enemies

Mane

*Badly Poisoned*

Level 12 Humanoid

Health: 170/275

Special: Lion’s Mane – If targeted the following round, the hero targeting them receives 3 damage regardless of row/SP, no matter what is rolled.

Drops: x2 Fire Bombs, Potion

Claw

Level 10 Humanoid

Health: 318/350

Special: Lion’s Claw – Deals 20 damage to hero.

Drops: x2 Dragon Scales

The Party

Thothwick

, Level 16 Rouge *Party Leader*

Power: 24 (21 Ranged)

Health: 15/27

Gold: 441

Inventory - Sabre (WP 8), Whip Chain (WP 6), Shuriken (WP 5), 2 Venoms, 1 Deadly Venom, 1 Floral Bomb, 1 Bedroll, 1 Telescope, Cultist's Hat, Phoenix Essence, Tonic, Ether Core

William Harkenshire

, Level 12 1/2 Ranger

Power: 17

Health: 11/17

Gold: 20

Inventory: Hand Cannon (WP: 5; Lightning, Wood) Repeating Crossbow (WP: 5 May not be upgraded; Fire; Hastened), Potion (3), Remedy, Smoke Bomb, Bedroll, Mead, Smelling Salts, Pickaxe, Horse, Skeleton Decoy, Shovel, Magnifying Glass, Venom, Elven Bomb, Fire Bomb, Bomb XX

"I'll attack Mane, from the back row, with my Sabre!"

"I attack Claw then Mane from the back row."

OoC: I forgot to add the gold you got from your last shield, so it has been added in this time!

Cultist Battle Round Five

Thothwick v. Mane - Shield

Harkenshire v. Claw - Hit

Harkenshire v. Mane - Critical Hit

The battle continues. Thothwick swings from the back row, dealing (-((8x3)+16)/2=20) damage and collecting some gold from a near-by burial urn. Sadly, Mane's fiery coat lashes out and burns him (-3). Harkenshire fires twice, hitting Claw (-17) and then Mane (-(5x2)+12=22). Mane's fiery protection slams into Harkenshire (-3) before sizzling out as the poison deepens it's gash (-10).

The Enemies

Mane

*Badly Poisoned*

Level 12 Humanoid

Health: 140/275

Special: Lion’s Mane – If targeted the following round, the hero targeting them receives 3 damage regardless of row/SP, no matter what is rolled.

Drops: x2 Fire Bombs, Potion

Claw

Level 10 Humanoid

Health: 301/350

Special: Lion’s Claw – Deals 20 damage to hero.

Drops: x2 Dragon Scales

The Party

Thothwick

, Level 16 Rouge *Party Leader*

Power: 24 (21 Ranged)

Health: 12/27

Gold: 481

Inventory - Sabre (WP 8), Whip Chain (WP 6), Shuriken (WP 5), 2 Venoms, 1 Deadly Venom, 1 Floral Bomb, 1 Bedroll, 1 Telescope, Cultist's Hat, Phoenix Essence, Tonic, Ether Core

William Harkenshire

, Level 12 1/2 Ranger

Power: 17

Health: 8/17

Gold: 20

Inventory: Hand Cannon (WP: 5; Lightning, Wood) Repeating Crossbow (WP: 5 May not be upgraded; Fire; Hastened), Potion (3), Remedy, Smoke Bomb, Bedroll, Mead, Smelling Salts, Pickaxe, Horse, Skeleton Decoy, Shovel, Magnifying Glass, Venom, Elven Bomb, Fire Bomb, Bomb XX

"I'll attack Claw, from the back row, with my Sabre!"

I use a potion.

Cultist Battle Round Six

Thothwick v. Claw - Damage

Harkenshire - Potion

Free Hits

Mane v. Thothwick (-6)

Claw chuckles as he pierce's Thothwick's hip (-5), sending him spinning backwards in pain. Harkenshire downs a potion as Mane also lunges forward and rams his sword into Thothwick's stomach (-6). Blood blossoms, and the poison takes it's toll. Mane growls in pain and glory (-10).

The Enemies

Mane

*Badly Poisoned*

Level 12 Humanoid

Health: 130/275

Special: Lion’s Mane – If targeted the following round, the hero targeting them receives 3 damage regardless of row/SP, no matter what is rolled.

Drops: x2 Fire Bombs, Potion

Claw

Level 10 Humanoid

Health: 301/350

Special: Lion’s Claw – Deals 20 damage to hero.

Drops: x2 Dragon Scales

The Party

Thothwick

, Level 16 Rouge *Party Leader*

Power: 24 (21 Ranged)

Health: 1/27

Gold: 481

Inventory - Sabre (WP 8), Whip Chain (WP 6), Shuriken (WP 5), 2 Venoms, 1 Deadly Venom, 1 Floral Bomb, 1 Bedroll, 1 Telescope, Cultist's Hat, Phoenix Essence, Tonic, Ether Core

William Harkenshire

, Level 12 1/2 Ranger

Power: 17

Health: 17/17

Gold: 20

Inventory: Hand Cannon (WP: 5; Lightning, Wood) Repeating Crossbow (WP: 5 May not be upgraded; Fire; Hastened), Potion (2), Remedy, Smoke Bomb, Bedroll, Mead, Smelling Salts, Pickaxe, Horse, Skeleton Decoy, Shovel, Magnifying Glass, Venom, Elven Bomb, Fire Bomb, Bomb XX

"I shoot Claw then Mane."

"Fiddlesticks. Well, back to attacking Mane from the back row with my Sabre!"

Cultist Battle Round Seven

Thothwick v. Mane - Special Damage

Harkenshire v. Claw - Shield

Harkenshire v. Mane - Special Damage

Thothwick stumbles forward, but before he is able to get to his target, he collapses, and hunched over coughs up some blood. Mane laughs and bursts into flame once more. Harkenshire fires three shots, hitting Mane once (-17) and Claw twice (-34). The poisons pops and sizzles (-10).

The Enemies

Mane

*Badly Poisoned*

Level 12 Humanoid

Health: 103/275

Special: Lion’s Mane – If targeted the following round, the hero targeting them receives 3 damage regardless of row/SP, no matter what is rolled.

Drops: x2 Fire Bombs, Potion

Claw

Level 10 Humanoid

Health: 267/350

Special: Lion’s Claw – Deals 20 damage to hero.

Drops: x2 Dragon Scales

The Party

Thothwick

, Level 16 Rouge *Party Leader*

Power: 24 (21 Ranged)

Health: 1/27

Gold: 481

Inventory - Sabre (WP 8), Whip Chain (WP 6), Shuriken (WP 5), 2 Venoms, 1 Deadly Venom, 1 Floral Bomb, 1 Bedroll, 1 Telescope, Cultist's Hat, Phoenix Essence, Tonic, Ether Core

William Harkenshire

, Level 12 1/2 Ranger

Power: 17

Health: 17/17

Gold: 20

Inventory: Hand Cannon (WP: 5; Lightning, Wood) Repeating Crossbow (WP: 5 May not be upgraded; Fire; Hastened), Potion (2), Remedy, Smoke Bomb, Bedroll, Mead, Smelling Salts, Pickaxe, Horse, Skeleton Decoy, Shovel, Magnifying Glass, Venom, Elven Bomb, Fire Bomb, Bomb XX

"Orang Pendek, please don't leave me now. I'll attack Claw, from the back row, with my Sabre!"

OoC: I'll assume VP does his normal attack as he viewed the thread and didn't comment last night. Guess he's grown busy with the mafia?

Cultist Battle Round Eight

Thothwick v. Claw - Hit

Harkenshire v. Claw - Hit

Harkenshire v. Mane - Special Damage

Thothwick lunges off of the floor and slice's Claw's leg (-24), though he is still unable to stand up Harkenshire fires on Claw (-17) before rounding on Mane. The bullet is blocked by the fiery encasement, which hurls it back at Harkenshire (-3) and continues to blaze. The poison sinks deeper (-10).

The Enemies

Mane

*Badly Poisoned*

Level 12 Humanoid

Health: 93/275

Special: Lion’s Mane – If targeted the following round, the hero targeting them receives 3 damage regardless of row/SP, no matter what is rolled.

Drops: x2 Fire Bombs, Potion

Claw

Level 10 Humanoid

Health: 226/350

Special: Lion’s Claw – Deals 20 damage to hero.

Drops: x2 Dragon Scales

The Party

Thothwick

, Level 16 Rouge *Party Leader*

Power: 24 (21 Ranged)

Health: 1/27

Gold: 481

Inventory - Sabre (WP 8), Whip Chain (WP 6), Shuriken (WP 5), 2 Venoms, 1 Deadly Venom, 1 Floral Bomb, 1 Bedroll, 1 Telescope, Cultist's Hat, Phoenix Essence, Tonic, Ether Core

William Harkenshire

, Level 12 1/2 Ranger

Power: 17

Health: 14/17

Gold: 20

Inventory: Hand Cannon (WP: 5; Lightning, Wood) Repeating Crossbow (WP: 5 May not be upgraded; Fire; Hastened), Potion (2), Remedy, Smoke Bomb, Bedroll, Mead, Smelling Salts, Pickaxe, Horse, Skeleton Decoy, Shovel, Magnifying Glass, Venom, Elven Bomb, Fire Bomb, Bomb XX

Cultist Battle Round Eight

Thothwick v. Mane - Special Damage

Harkenshire v. Claw - Damage

Harkenshire v. Mane - Special Damage

Thothwick tries to attack Mane, but the fiery coat he has on him envelops the hero, and Thothwick's charred body drops, unconscious. Harkenshire loads and aims at Claw, who slices his arm before he is able to fire (-5). Harkenshire cries out in pain and drops his arm, firing the shot by accident into the ground. Harkenshire is hit, as well, by Mane's fiery coat (-3) which continues to blaze strong. The poison does it's thing (-10). The battle looks to have a bad ending.

The Enemies

Mane

*Badly Poisoned*

Level 12 Humanoid

Health: 83/275

Special: Lion’s Mane – If targeted the following round, the hero targeting them receives 3 damage regardless of row/SP, no matter what is rolled.

Drops: x2 Fire Bombs, Potion

Claw

Level 10 Humanoid

Health: 226/350

Special: Lion’s Claw – Deals 20 damage to hero.

Drops: x2 Dragon Scales

The Party

Thothwick

, Level 16 Rouge *Party Leader*

KO'd

Power: 24 (21 Ranged)

Health: 0/27

Gold: 481

Inventory - Sabre (WP 8), Whip Chain (WP 6), Shuriken (WP 5), 2 Venoms, 1 Deadly Venom, 1 Floral Bomb, 1 Bedroll, 1 Telescope, Cultist's Hat, Phoenix Essence, Tonic, Ether Core

William Harkenshire

, Level 12 1/2 Ranger

Power: 17

Health: 6/17

Gold: 20

Inventory: Hand Cannon (WP: 5; Lightning, Wood) Repeating Crossbow (WP: 5 May not be upgraded; Fire; Hastened), Potion (2), Remedy, Smoke Bomb, Bedroll, Mead, Smelling Salts, Pickaxe, Horse, Skeleton Decoy, Shovel, Magnifying Glass, Venom, Elven Bomb, Fire Bomb, Bomb XX

"You won't take me alive! I shoot Mane and then Claw."

Cultist Battle Round Nine

Harkenshire v. Claw - Damage

Harkenshire v. Mane - Shield

Harkenshire fumbles to load again, and Claw saunters forward, stabbing him in the gut. Blood runs down Claw's sword, flowing freely from Harkenshire's stomach. Harkenshire's eyes water with pain (-5). Harkenshire fires three times, knocking Claw backwards, and passing two bullet through Mane's fiery apparatus. The Pongcanis grunts in pain, but his flames leap forward and swallow Harkenshire (-3). Harkenshire stumbles to his knees.

The battle is lost.

The Party

Thothwick

, Level 16 Rouge *Party Leader*

Power: 24 (21 Ranged)

Health: 1/27

Gold: 481

Inventory - Sabre (WP 8), Whip Chain (WP 6), Shuriken (WP 5), 2 Venoms, 1 Deadly Venom, 1 Floral Bomb, 1 Bedroll, 1 Telescope, Cultist's Hat, Phoenix Essence, Tonic, Ether Core

William Harkenshire

, Level 12 1/2 Ranger

Power: 17

Health: 1/17

Gold: 20

Inventory: Hand Cannon (WP: 5; Lightning, Wood) Repeating Crossbow (WP: 5 May not be upgraded; Fire; Hastened), Potion (2), Remedy, Smoke Bomb, Bedroll, Mead, Smelling Salts, Pickaxe, Horse, Skeleton Decoy, Shovel, Magnifying Glass, Venom, Elven Bomb, Fire Bomb, Bomb XX

Harkenshire dribbles blood from his mouth as Mane's fire goes out and he plunges the Dragon Tooth into the young Dragon before him. An unearthly cry is heard, echoing in the heroes heads, and the Dragon goes limp.

"And now you," says Claw as he advances, sword raised. Harkenshire glances over at Thothwick, who is hazily coming to, and then up at the sword that is about to be plunged into his friends chest. He does not have the strength to defend him. Suddenly, fire spring up around them and Claw stumbles backwards. A voice booms, ancient, strong.

"DO NOT TOUCH THE HEROES OF HEROICA. THEY HAVE DEFENDED US. THEY FRIENDS OF THE DRAGONS. FLEE."

Claw and Mane pace back and then both turn and run out of the area. The heroes pant as the fire goes out and Vipera's voice appears in their heads.

"That fire was the last act of the Dragon that you failed to save. When a Dragon dies, it releases all of the life force it has into the energy pools. That energy may complete the Dragons final will. Thank you for your efforts, heroes. You are indeed now Friends of Dragons. The Chimera is rising, heroes. The humans are too busy to notice, and the Dragons refuse to become involved in human affairs. The Chimera is clever. She knows to use Sphinx. The Dragons will not act against him. You are a final defense. I will call on you again, when I need you. Brace yourselves."

The heroes feel a small warmth in their chests, and are able to stagger to their feet. They make their way out of the cave and collapse against some rocks, unable to continue, waiting for their allies to return again from the top of the mountain.

Breathing deeply from the combined effort of the hike and the battle, Thothwick turns to William.

"We attempted to enact justice in this world, Mr. Harkenshire. We may have failed, but we can at least find solace in the fact we're truly heroes."

"Indeed Thothwick, but I have still failed in my duty." I mount my horse

U'Stus Watching (Between the two visits to U'Stus' House, directly preceding his death)

Nyx starts to wander around the manor, leaving U'Stus in his den with the biscuits. The manor is far from lavish, but it is clear that U'Stus lives in style without being excessive.

Suddenly, there is a small sound of a blast. It comes from near the center of the manor. Nyx's wandering has brought her between U'Stus and the blast. She crouches, waiting for footsteps to come forward. They fail to.

Would Nyx like to go back to U'Stus, or investigate?

On hearing the blast, Nyx's senses tingle. She pauses, listening, but concerned for the safety of her charge she decides to very quietly sneak back to U'Stus to ensure he is protected, knowing that he must be her priority.

Nyx is on her way to protect U'Stus in his den when she hears voices approaching. She will not be able to get past them in time to reach U'Stus, so, although she is no rogue, she stows herself away behind a pillar in one of the many hallways. Three figures walk by, talking. She has seen one in person before, and recognizes another from a wanted ad. The third is totally new to her.

"...if they're not with you, they're against you. You know that U'Vires. Sphinx and Wren has their own agendas."

"Which I will not support in the end. But we need them for the time being we need them. The same goes Lyons. The Lion Knights will not treat the U'Kin any better than the Dastan Empire treats the U'Kin. But we still need them for the time being we need them."

"You need me for the time being. Magic is dangerous and unpredictable. Invention is the way of the future."

"You cannot do what Wren can do what you cannot. Without her the plan of the evening would be impossible without her. Your guns, your Chimera Guards, they are beautiful, but only she can control the hearts and minds of men and women."

"And doesn't that worry you? Besides, even she admits her limits. 'I have a finite amount of ether, I can only control them for two hours, I can't block off the house.' She is not as powerful as she or the heroes make her seem."

Nyx slips. Three heads turn.

"Well well well. Howdy there, little lady! Thank god. These two were boring me! Who to trust, who not to trust."

"Is this one of the heroes?"

"Yes indeed, U'Vires. Yes indeed. She's a feisty one. I like her."

U'Vires looks at Nyx. He seems to be assessing her.

"Please deal with her and then leave as was planned after you deal with her. Remember, when the officials arrive, none of us must be here. Take Wren with you through the-" he stops himself. "Take Wren. I will follow when I have set everything up. I did not plan on involving the heroes of Heroica to be involved, but if we can discredit them as well, then that will be good for us to discredit them as well if we can." U'Vires adresses Nyx. "I'm sorry. This is progress. There is a plan, and you stand in the way of the plan."

U'Vires walks off, and the other two turn to Nyx.

"Ready for Round Two? Don't you worry, this time I'll play until the finish."

The Enemies

XX

Level 20 Fiery, Humanoid

Health: 1500/1500

Special: Explosion – Does 5 damage to all heroes, regardless of row/SP and burns the hero targeting XX, dealing a further 2 damage each round until the end of the battle (does not stack).

Drops: Bomb XX x5, Explosive Staff, Fire Amulet

Inventor

Level 18 Mechanical, Humanoid

Health: 525/525

Special I: Repair Man - Heals all Mechanical Enemies by 25 points.

Special II: Scatter-shot - Deals 10 damage to all heroes, disregarding row/SP.

Drops: Topaz, 500 Gold

Note - Specials will alternate.

The Party

Nyx

, Level 19 Battle Mage

Power: 32

Health: 29/29

Ether: 24/24

Gold: 0

Inventory: Book of a Thousand Creatures (WP:13, each roll has a 1/6 chance to summon a creature to aid the hero), Dawnstar II (WP: 9), Healing Staff (WP: 5), Shiny Helmet (+1 max health), Ruby (Fire), Amethyst (Darkness), Topaz (Lightning), Sapphire (Wind), Emerald (Wood), Garnet (Earth), Sandman's Parasol, Potion, Remedy, 3 Tonics, 2 Grand Tonics, Holy Bomb, Bedroll, 5 Bones, Wooden Shield (SP:2), Bomb XX, Phoenix Essence, Ether Core, Dragon Scale

OoC: I call this segment of the Quest: Nyx gets her megablocks handed to her. Sorry dear. Sometimes the heroes of Heroica fail some battles...

"Mr XX, I'm not accustomed to men running away before the job's done, but really, this time if you wished to do so again I would be most happy. And who's your friend here? You are worried enough about me that you require back-up? You really are absolutely pitiful. I know that there is next to no chance for me to make it out of here alive, do not take me for a fool, but however this ends you have my unending contempt, that is certain."

Nyx steels herself, knowing that pure pain is coming, and with it most likely a flood of unwanted memories. She focuses, and hopes to any deity that may care that Edgar, or someone... anyone... will come to fight at her side.

Meanwhile she focuses all her hopes and fears into a writhing swirl of Darkness magic to send towards the Inventor from the back row, focused through her Book.

OoC: In all honesty, if you want to try to surrender, you can! I'm trying hard this quest to let your guys make choices! Give it a shot, if you want to.

Round One Nyx's Megablocks Battle

Nyx v. Inventor - Counter Strike (No Summon)

XX - Free Hit

The battle begins. The Inventor fires a shot at Nyx. Tiny pellets piece her body all over (-9) as she releases her spell (-13x2=26). XX fires a small fire ball that pummels Nyx in the stomach, making her double over (-10).

The Enemies

XX

Level 20 Fiery, Humanoid

Health: 1500/1500

Special: Explosion – Does 5 damage to all heroes, regardless of row/SP and burns the hero targeting XX, dealing a further 2 damage each round until the end of the battle (does not stack).

Drops: Bomb XX x5, Explosive Staff, Fire Amulet

Inventor

Level 18 Mechanical, Humanoid

Health: 499/525

Special I: Repair Man - Heals all Mechanical Enemies by 25 points.

Special II: Scatter-shot - Deals 10 damage to all heroes, disregarding row/SP.

Drops: Topaz, 500 Gold

Note - Specials will alternate.

The Party

Nyx

, Level 19 Battle Mage

Power: 32

Health: 10/29

Ether: 24/24

Gold: 0

Inventory: Book of a Thousand Creatures (WP:13, each roll has a 1/6 chance to summon a creature to aid the hero), Dawnstar II (WP: 9), Healing Staff (WP: 5), Shiny Helmet (+1 max health), Ruby (Fire), Amethyst (Darkness), Topaz (Lightning), Sapphire (Wind), Emerald (Wood), Garnet (Earth), Sandman's Parasol, Potion, Remedy, 3 Tonics, 2 Grand Tonics, Holy Bomb, Bedroll, 5 Bones, Wooden Shield (SP:2), Bomb XX, Phoenix Essence, Ether Core, Dragon Scale

"That's too bad, dear. I'm quite the fan of your's. You know, you shouldn't hate me all that much. I'm just like you. A worker for pay. This doesn't matter to me in the slightest. If Emperor Septrine or Alandri had contacted me before-"

"Shut up, XX."

"Touchy, touchy. Why don't you just give up, Nyx? I'll go easy on you."

"I won't allow that."

"Tough. You're not the head huncho here. I take my orders from U'Vires only."

Nyx glares at the inventor for his interruptions, noting his presence and apparent capabilities. She looks up at XX with a mixed expression of anguish, curiosity and determination.

"You are right XX, we are very much alike indeed. We have both mastered the use of fire, and fire influences us both greatly. And yes, you're right, we are both workers for pay. The difference, the fundamental difference though, is that I take on work I believe in, and I follow my heart and my conscience, not my greed. I don't hate you, as you say you're just hired, but you're both ganging up on just me, so I'm hardly going to like you. As I've said, I can't see any way out of this for me; I'm stronger than I look, and I would give either one of you a run for your money on your own, but I know together you're too strong for me.

I don't want to fight a battle I know in my heart I can't win, but I can't stand by and let you hurt U'Stus."

Nyx, fighting the rising levels of despair, prepares to hit herself with her healing staff from the back row.

Round Two Nyx's Megablocks Battle

Nyx v. Nyx - Damage Miss (No Summon)

Inventor - Free Hit

XX - Free Hit

The battle continues. Nyx attempts to smash the healing staff into herself, but the Inventor whacks the barrel of his gun into her hand as she brings it down. The healing staff clatters to the floor and the Inventor presses the gun up to her stomach before firing a shot. Nyx has never been in more pain as dozens of metal balls enter her skin and exit the opposite side (-9). XX gives a loose smile and fires a ball of fire at her face. Her vision darkens.

The battle is lost.

Nyx slouches against a statue of a U'Kin. The metal of the sculpture is cold against her back. Warm blood seeps just about everywhere. Her eyes flutter and then close. She feels a hand on her wrist. It lingers.

"She's dead as dead can be," reports XX. Nyx gasps for air but XX elbows her lightly in the side and she stops.

"A bullet to the head would make sure of that."

"I suppose it would. It would also be a waste of a bullet. Come on, let's go talk to WRen and get the hell out of here. U'Vires is right, if we're here when the Dragon Knights or whoever show up, the whole plan is ka-pooey." There are footsteps walking away down the hall. Nyx's head spins. The body crouched next to her doesn't move until the footsteps fade. "Breath, now," hisses XX. "You're going to be alright. You've got a cleric with you, right? You're probably going to want to have him patch you up when he gets the chance. You owe me." XX walks away and Nyx's thoughts stop coming as she passes in unconsciousness.

[Zepher]

OoC: As always, I edited out any posts that were strictly OoC or strictly "I repeat this action".

Ella leads the heroes past the palace and to the tallest structure in Drakencourt: Emperor Brunt's Wall. Like all the structures in Dastan, it is a hodge-podge of different building styles. It looms over the entire city.

"The history of Emperor Brunt's wall is a bloody one. Emperor Brunt was a brutal dictator, and the two Emperors that served with him were under his control his entire reign. He is my great great uncle, and served before both my father's father and my father."

"Emperor Brunt built the wall through the center of Drakencourt with the express intent of cutting the U'Kin and Pongcanis and all the other races that were not native to the land. Emperor Brunt enslaved the people he was cutting out to build the wall. Once they realized it's purpose, they rebelled. U'Stus once told me that over forty thousand U'Kin alone died while building the wall. His father was nearly one of them."

"I hate the wall."

"I have told my father that I demand it's destruction, and he has agreed that it serves no practical purpose. We have tried to begin it's deconstruction a number of times. Each time, the crew has been murdered. Mallelio and I have looked into the matter, and we have determined that the wall was enchanted by Emperor Brunt's head mage. Emperor Brunt was buried on this side of the wall, and it is our belief that he currently guards it."

"As you may have guessed, I have no fear for my life, and I never intended to use you as guards. I have employed you, heroes, to make amends by killing the spirit. You have lost U'Stus, who supported the deconstruction of the wall, and you have killed Constance on the grounds of her racism, a fault so great you believed it made her a traitor. Wait until dusk, heroes, and take down this spirit for me. I'm am asking you as my friends. Will you do it?"

Atramor's eyes, lined with exhaustion due to a rather sleepless night, slide up the patchwork wall with a chuckle. They vaguely reminded him of the hovels of Dreida.

"Now, not to be rude, but there were a lot of reasons we accidentally killed Constance...and that was onna them. Yeah, I'm prepared to slay this spirit for 'ya. 'Least we can do, I s'pose...kinda odd, he outlaws a tool that steals the power of spirits an' then he becomes one for himself..."

McCafferey flapped her way up to the very top of the barrier, gazing down upon either side with disdain.

"Emperor Brunt was not well known for being an even Emperor. Along with this project he fortified our wall to the north, which proved to be a valuable asset, built the three wings on the palace, built a series of tunnels with which to escape should the city every be invaded... which collapsed for the most part during his rule. He also commissioned a telescope that was never completed and tried to build a ship on Lake Glaz which he claimed would be the ultimate movable defense. It sunk under its own weight. He twice had nearly all of his advisers killed, and both times all those he had killed were proven to be on the verge of betraying him. He fought and won the third great siege of Drakencourt against a roaming band of Pongcanis that outnumbered the city ten to one. Emperor Brunt was the closest thing to a mad Emperor that Dastan has ever seen, but he was of Dastan blood and soil, and though he was brutal, he embodied a number of ideals our people have."

"Hah. Sounds like Constance with political power. Was he known for bein' a powerful warrior, or did he have any interestin' weapons or artifacts he might use in his spectral form?"

"Hah. Sounds like Constance with political power. Was he known for bein' a powerful warrior, or did he have any interestin' weapons or artifacts he might use in his spectral form?"

Tarn had had a sleepless night and was desperately trying to catch up with the conversation and mission.

"Thank you for selecting me to do this, Ella. I have taken down an evil spirit before, so I will hopefully be prepared for what may come.

And thank you for your words of encouragement. I bitterly regret the death of Constance -" He looked across at Atramor, one he considers a friend. "But I understand why many people thought she was the traitor."

"I'm sorry to say, Atramor, that I've never much paid attention to the different weapons different Emperors have fought with. I don't think I even know what my father wields in battle..."

Mallelio approaches the party.

"These are the two that you've picked?" he asks with a laugh. "I'll never understand you, Miss Ella. Not that it isn't good to see you, Tarn, Atramor. It's just so striking to me that while the Chimera is roaming the mountains, our little Ella has decided she must exorcise this wall."

"I trust the others will take care of the Chimera. We can't just sit idly while they do it!"

Mallelio sigh and leads the heroes to a door. They fling it open, and enter the tunnel that runs throughout the entire wall. It is dark and dank and the stone are even more roughly thrown together here. Mallelio leads the way. Ella remains in the back.

The heroes have been pacing through the wall for a few hours when they feel a chill. Fog billows forward, not unlike the fog that has descended on the rest of Dastan. Suddenly, in front of them is the spirit of Emperor Brunt.

"Who goes there?! Does the blood of Dastan run true in you?"

What would the heroes like to do?

Atramor shrugs.

"I meant in a 'The Legendary Blade of Dastan' sorta way, but I s'pose you would've said somethin'.

McCafferey flaps back to his shoulder, and he follows Mallelio inside. He was all too familiar with cold, damp, foggy makeshift buildings, so the atmosphere didn't particularly bother him. The darkness, though, was somewhat of a pressing annoyance. Before he knew it, however, an undead, crowned figure was staring him in the face, speaking in a cold tone not unlike the chicken that was now examining the tyrant king with a beady eye.

"Er, no. We actually spilled a little too much Dastan blood and are here to kill you to compensate. I also hear you were a racist, demented ruler that we need to exorcise in order to bring down your greatest accomplishment. So consider yourself having a bad day."

Tarn rolls his eyes at Atramor and his rather blunt response. He didn't remember him being quite that bad during their Quest for the Guild of Invision. He declines to say anything himself, though, still troubled by recent events.

Atramor frowned slightly at Tarn at his eye-roll.

"What, did you expect to reason with the undead overlord?"

"You have one of royal blood with you. She is in peril. Give her to me and I will award you handsomely. I must protect the bloodline. She is my kin. If you refuse, I will take her from you."

"Yeah. Well. No."

Atramor strides in front of both Tarn and Ella, staring down the former Emperor.

"How 'bout we kill you permanently, loot all those goodies, and award ourselves some nice experience instead? I like that idea. We've messed with your country far too much, removin' you can only help fix it."

The threat against Ella finally zaps Tarn out of his troubled slump. Pushing past Atramor, who was breaking all kinds of fourth walls, he addressed the ghostly figure:

"You will not get Ella, spirit, she is under our protection."

"Very well. You offer me no choice."

The spirit lifts his sword and the heroes prepare for battle.

The Enemies

Spirit of Emperor Brunt

Level 16 Undead

Health: 400/400

SP: 2

Special: Emperor’s Rite -

Banishes

his foe from the battle. The foe cannot act/be acted upon the next round, and returns to the battle with ten less health.

Drops: Ancient Crown

The Party

Atramor Gibbin

, Level 19 Witch *Acting Party Leader*

Power: 28

Health: 22/22 (-14 for remainder of Quest)

Defense: 2

Ether: 8/8 (-9 for remainder of Quest)

Gold: 12

Inventory: Ratsbane, WP: 10, Sand Worm Hide, Witch's Talisman, Black Katana, WP: 8, Staff of the Elven Warlock, WP: 5, Scroll of Sealing, Bone x2, Grand Tonic, Fire Bomb, Phoenix Essence, Ether Core

Tarn Valco

, Level 15 Barbarian

Power: 25

Health: 22/22

Gold: 13

Inventory: Helbaerend (WP: 10, Water, Ice and Lightning Elemental, Hollow Blade, Grand Potion Stored), Fauxthril Spear (WP: 6), Phoenix Essence, Remedy, Holy Bomb, Shovel, Pickaxe, Dragon Scale

Mallelio

(NPC)

Level 15 1/2 Sage

Power: 16

Health: 30/30

Ether: 19/22

Gold: 0

Inventory: Wooden Staff (WP: 1), Topaz (Lightning)

Atramor chuckles.

"What? No ghostly minions? Only problem with fightin' you is the time it's gonna take, mate."

He sweeps Ratsbane from its sheath, driving it towards his foe's gaping eye socket from the front row.

"Mallelio, I suggest you heal yourself this round, and never attack."

Atramor

Tarn

Mallelio

"We shall send you to a place of rest, spirit!"

Tarn attacks the ghostly figure using his elementally embued battle axe, from the front row.

Round 1 Emperor Brunt Battle

Atramor v. Spirit of Emperor Brunt - Critical Hit

Tarn v. Spirit of Emperor Brunt - Damage

Mallelio does nothing

The battle begins. Atramor slices at Emperor Brunt, who staggers backwards and disappears into the mist (-[10x2]+19=39). Two Emperor Brunts step forward, each grinning ghoulish smiles. Tarn flies at the original Emperor Brunt, but the Emperor steps aside and hacks his side open.

The Enemies

Spirit of Emperor Brunt

Level 16 Undead

*Badly Poisoned*

Health: 363/400

SP: 2

Special: Emperor’s Rite -

Banishes

his foe from the battle. The foe cannot act/be acted upon the next round, and returns to the battle with ten less health.

Drops: Ancient Crown

Spirit of Emperor Brunt B

Level 16 Undead

Health: 37/37

SP: 2

Special: Emperor’s Rite -

Banishes

his foe from the battle. The foe cannot act/be acted upon the next round, and returns to the battle with ten less health.

Drops: Nothing

The Party

Atramor Gibbin

, Level 19 Witch *Acting Party Leader*

Power: 28

Health: 22/22 (-14 for remainder of Quest)

Defense: 2

Ether: 8/8 (-9 for remainder of Quest)

Gold: 12

Inventory: Ratsbane, WP: 10, Sand Worm Hide, Witch's Talisman, Black Katana, WP: 8, Staff of the Elven Warlock, WP: 5, Scroll of Sealing, Bone x2, Grand Tonic, Fire Bomb, Phoenix Essence, Ether Core

Tarn Valco

, Level 15 Barbarian

Power: 25

Health: 6/22

Gold: 13

Inventory: Helbaerend (WP: 10, Water, Ice and Lightning Elemental, Hollow Blade, Grand Potion Stored), Fauxthril Spear (WP: 6), Phoenix Essence, Remedy, Holy Bomb, Shovel, Pickaxe, Dragon Scale

Mallelio

(NPC)

Level 15 1/2 Sage

Power: 16

Health: 30/30

Ether: 19/22

Gold: 0

Inventory: Wooden Staff (WP: 1), Topaz (Lightning)

"I will heal Tarn. This has become a challenge, heroes. I hope you are prepared for it. I would rather die than allow Ella to fall into harm, but I will not hold you here with me if the worst comes. You have further purpose here."

I should only do 37 damage due to his SP. Does that mean Spirit B should have 37 health...?

Atramor grins as the spirit stumbles into the mist, a disgusting greenish fluid dripping from his wound. He'd be back, but it wouldn't be long at all before-

...before both of him walked forward.

"...Well, damn."

He fumbled with his blade for a few moments in surprise. This wasn't good. Taking a slow breath, he attacked Spirit of Emperor Brunt B from the back row.

"Tarn, attack the second spirit along with me. I have an idea. If attackin' Emperor Brunt just makes extra spirits, maybe we can just bleed 'im out with the poison and take free hits."

Atramor

Mallelio

Tarn

Tarn realises the odds of winning this fight just got really high. But he does not run from a fight. Trusting that Mallelio will do his best to heal him, he nods grimly at Atramor, doing as he requests and attacking Brunt B from the front row.

Round 2 Emperor Brunt Battle

Atramor v. Spirit B - Special Damage

Mallelio heals Tarn - Shield

Tarn v. Spirit B - Special Damage

Spirit of Emperor Brunt - Free Hit on Atramor

The battle continues. Atramor charges the second spirit, as does Tarn, but the duel spirits blast them backwards, and they both disappear into the mist, unable to act the next round, or be acted upon (Atramor: -8 (free hit)). Luckily Mallelio is able to heal them both before they disappear (+15). He also releases a thunderous shock that rocks the Emperors (-(16-2)=14), creating another spirit. Mallelio turns fearlessly to the Emperors. The poison kicks in and the original spirit shutters (-10).

The Enemies

Spirit of Emperor Brunt

Level 16 Undead

*Badly Poisoned*

Health: 339/400

SP: 2

Special: Emperor’s Rite -

Banishes

his foe from the battle. The foe cannot act/be acted upon the next round, and returns to the battle with ten less health.

Drops: Ancient Crown

Spirit of Emperor Brunt B

Level 16 Undead

Health: 23/37

SP: 2

Special: Emperor’s Rite -

Banishes

his foe from the battle. The foe cannot act/be acted upon the next round, and returns to the battle with ten less health.

Drops: Nothing

Spirit of Emperor Brunt C

Level 16 Undead

Health: 14/14

SP: 2

Special: Emperor’s Rite -

Banishes

his foe from the battle. The foe cannot act/be acted upon the next round, and returns to the battle with ten less health.

Drops: Nothing

The Party

Atramor Gibbin

, Level 19 Witch *Acting Party Leader*

*Banished*

Power: 28

Health: 22/22 (-14 for remainder of Quest)

Defense: 2

Ether: 8/8 (-9 for remainder of Quest)

Gold: 12

Inventory: Ratsbane, WP: 10, Sand Worm Hide, Witch's Talisman, Black Katana, WP: 8, Staff of the Elven Warlock, WP: 5, Scroll of Sealing, Bone x2, Grand Tonic, Fire Bomb, Phoenix Essence, Ether Core

Tarn Valco

, Level 15 Barbarian

*Banished*

Power: 25

Health: 21/22

Gold: 13

Inventory: Helbaerend (WP: 10, Water, Ice and Lightning Elemental, Hollow Blade, Grand Potion Stored), Fauxthril Spear (WP: 6), Phoenix Essence, Remedy, Holy Bomb, Shovel, Pickaxe, Dragon Scale

Mallelio

(NPC)

Level 15 1/2 Sage

Power: 16

Health: 30/30

Ether: 19/22

Gold: 0

Inventory: Wooden Staff (WP: 1), Topaz (Lightning)

Round 3 Emperor Brunt Battle

Mallelio v. Spirit C - Shield

Spirit of Emperor Brunt - Free Hit on Mallelio

Spirit of Emperor Brunt B - Free Hit on Mallelio

The battle continues. Atramor and Tarn struggle to escape the mist that clings to them, but both find themselves unable to act. Mallelio fires a bolt of electricity at all three spirits (-14), destroying Spirit C but creating an exact replica. The original Spirit and his oldest spirit ally fly at Mallelio, shooting through his body as streams of smoke. He stumbles and coughs (-16), and Ella gasps. As Atramor and Tarn struggle free (-10) the original Spirit is racked with the poison once more (-10).

The Enemies

Spirit of Emperor Brunt

Level 16 Undead

*Badly Poisoned*

Health: 315/400

SP: 2

Special: Emperor’s Rite -

Banishes

his foe from the battle. The foe cannot act/be acted upon the next round, and returns to the battle with ten less health.

Drops: Ancient Crown

Spirit of Emperor Brunt B

Level 16 Undead

Health: 9/37

SP: 2

Special: Emperor’s Rite -

Banishes

his foe from the battle. The foe cannot act/be acted upon the next round, and returns to the battle with ten less health.

Drops: Nothing

Spirit of Emperor Brunt D

Level 16 Undead

Health: 14/14

SP: 2

Special: Emperor’s Rite -

Banishes

his foe from the battle. The foe cannot act/be acted upon the next round, and returns to the battle with ten less health.

Drops: Nothing

The Party

Atramor Gibbin

, Level 19 Witch *Acting Party Leader*

Power: 28

Health: 12/22 (-14 for remainder of Quest)

Defense: 2

Ether: 8/8 (-9 for remainder of Quest)

Gold: 12

Inventory: Ratsbane, WP: 10, Sand Worm Hide, Witch's Talisman, Black Katana, WP: 8, Staff of the Elven Warlock, WP: 5, Scroll of Sealing, Bone x2, Grand Tonic, Fire Bomb, Phoenix Essence, Ether Core

Tarn Valco

, Level 15 Barbarian

Power: 25

Health: 11/22

Gold: 13

Inventory: Helbaerend (WP: 10, Water, Ice and Lightning Elemental, Hollow Blade, Grand Potion Stored), Fauxthril Spear (WP: 6), Phoenix Essence, Remedy, Holy Bomb, Shovel, Pickaxe, Dragon Scale

Mallelio

(NPC)

Level 15 1/2 Sage

Power: 16

Health: 14/30

Ether: 19/22

Gold: 0

Inventory: Wooden Staff (WP: 1), Topaz (Lightning)

Atramor slams face-first into the ground, panting heavily. He remembered only the icy, unnaturally cool grip of the mist consume him...but time seemed to have passed. Another spirit stood along with its fellows, the original one had bled even further, and Mallelio was wounded. This wasn't going nearly as according to plan as he'd hoped. He wracks his brain for another...

"D-Damn...."...pant..."....Tarn, mate, if we're gonna get out of this, I think ya' should use your Dragon Scale...from the back row, 'cuz you're gonna have to take a hit this round...Mallelio, can ya' heal me?"

Atramor sheaths Ratsbane, drawing an odd blink from the Spirit of Emperor Brunt as he pulled an old, gnawed Bone from his pouch.

"Ya' want this, ya' son of a bitch? Go get it!"

And with that, he threw it, right at the rotten skull of the former king.

Atramor

Tarn

Mallelio

What does the Dragon Scale do again?

Tarn shivered as the icy mists seemed to claw at the very soul of his being, and he felt the life drain from him. He stole a glance at Ella, misconstruing her fear for Mallellio as concern for him, and he gallantly tries an encouraging smile.

"Atramor, I feel this is a losing battle. We must finish off these additional spirits as soon as we can without somehow creating more, but even if we only faced the original, it would take more time than we have health to just wait for him to be Poisoned."

Regardless, Tarn uses the Dragon Scale from the back row to try to regain an edge in combat.

"I know that, Tarn. But one slip up in healin' could cost us this entire battle. It'd be for the best that one of us is automatically regeneratin' it. Plus, your hits are lot more likely to land. And, think of how good you'll for Ella."

He chuckles.

"Trust me, mate, with plannin', this won't be as difficult as ya' think."

Round 4 Emperor Brunt Battle

Atramor uses bone

Tarn uses Dragon Scale

Mallelio heals Atramor - Failure

Spirit B - Free Hit v. Atramor (-6)

Spirit D - Free Hit v. Tarn (-8)

The bone smashes against the Emperor, disorienting him. Tarn uses the distraction to rub his dragon scale, which explodes in a flash of blinding light and flames. Tarn glows and fiery wings spring from his back for a few seconds before fading. Mallelio tries to heal Atramor, but his eyes grow wide as his spells sputter and die. Spirits B and D blast through the heroes in the same misty forms that they smashed through Mallelio with. The glow revitalizes Tarn slightly, and the poison continues to hurt the former Emperor.

The Enemies

Spirit of Emperor Brunt

Level 16 Undead

*Badly Poisoned*

Health: 305/400

SP: 2

Special: Emperor’s Rite -

Banishes

his foe from the battle. The foe cannot act/be acted upon the next round, and returns to the battle with ten less health.

Drops: Ancient Crown

Spirit of Emperor Brunt B

Level 16 Undead

Health: 9/37

SP: 2

Special: Emperor’s Rite -

Banishes

his foe from the battle. The foe cannot act/be acted upon the next round, and returns to the battle with ten less health.

Drops: Nothing

Spirit of Emperor Brunt D

Level 16 Undead

Health: 14/14

SP: 2

Special: Emperor’s Rite -

Banishes

his foe from the battle. The foe cannot act/be acted upon the next round, and returns to the battle with ten less health.

Drops: Nothing

The Party

Atramor Gibbin

, Level 19 Witch *Acting Party Leader*

Power: 28

Health: 4/22 (-14 for remainder of Quest)

Defense: 2

Ether: 8/8 (-9 for remainder of Quest)

Gold: 12

Inventory: Ratsbane, WP: 10, Sand Worm Hide, Witch's Talisman, Black Katana, WP: 8, Staff of the Elven Warlock, WP: 5, Scroll of Sealing, Bone, Grand Tonic, Fire Bomb, Phoenix Essence, Ether Core

Tarn Valco

, Level 15 Barbarian

*Lucky*

*Blessed*

Power: 25

Health: 6/22

Gold: 13

Inventory: Helbaerend (WP: 10, Water, Ice and Lightning Elemental, Hollow Blade, Grand Potion Stored), Fauxthril Spear (WP: 6), Phoenix Essence, Remedy, Holy Bomb, Shovel, Pickaxe, Dragon Scale

Mallelio

(NPC)

Level 15 1/2 Sage

Power: 16

Health: 14/30

Ether: 19/22

Gold: 0

Inventory: Wooden Staff (WP: 1), Topaz (Lightning)

"Atramor, allow me to take the hit next round, I can withstand it easily if I heal one of you from the back row."

Trusting to his newfound luck, Tarn proceeded to strike out at Brunt D from the front row, hoping to remove one of the troublesome duplicates.

"Mallelio, please try to heal Atramor again! Atramor, distract the original Emperor again."

Unless CMP has any other ideas for Tarn?

Atramor stumbles backward, slamming his hand into one side of the wall. His vision blurs, but he shakes it off as quickly as he can.

"Oof...stupid...damn...agh. Tarn, I know you're probably loathe to burn through any more items, but I think ya' should chug that Grand Potion and take out one of the copies...you're getting an artifact at the end of this battle, one way or another, so I think it'd be worth it. And, ya' know, not gettin' our megablocks whooped again...Mallelio, I could use your healin' again."

Intending to take as few risks as possible, Atramor pulls out the other Bone, throwing it with the same precise, roguish skill at Emperor Brunt's temple.

Mallelio

Atramor

Tarn

"...Of course, if ya' wanna take the risk of not usin' your potion, it's your choice."

I guess we can't be too careful!

Using the intricate technology of the glass blowers shoppe of Eubric, before Tarn goes on the offensive again he consumes the Grand Potion from his hollow blade.

Round 5 Emperor Brunt Battle

Mallelio heals Atramor - Heal

Atramor uses bone

Tarn uses Grand Potion

Tarn v. Emperor Brunt D - Miss Hit

Spirit B - Free Hit v. Mallelio (-8)

Mallelio feels his magic spring back to life and fires a healing blast at Atramor (+16). Atramor tosses his final bone at the original Emperor, while Tarn axes down the newest ghostly figure. The poison racks the original Emperor while his cohort stabs at Mallelio (-8).

The Enemies

Spirit of Emperor Brunt

Level 16 Undead

*Badly Poisoned*

Health: 295/400

SP: 2

Special: Emperor’s Rite -

Banishes

his foe from the battle. The foe cannot act/be acted upon the next round, and returns to the battle with ten less health.

Drops: Ancient Crown

Spirit of Emperor Brunt B

Level 16 Undead

Health: 9/37

SP: 2

Special: Emperor’s Rite -

Banishes

his foe from the battle. The foe cannot act/be acted upon the next round, and returns to the battle with ten less health.

Drops: Nothing

The Party

Atramor Gibbin

, Level 19 Witch *Acting Party Leader*

Power: 28

Health: 22/22 (-14 for remainder of Quest)

Defense: 2

Ether: 8/8 (-9 for remainder of Quest)

Gold: 12

Inventory: Ratsbane, WP: 10, Sand Worm Hide, Witch's Talisman, Black Katana, WP: 8, Staff of the Elven Warlock, WP: 5, Scroll of Sealing, Grand Tonic, Fire Bomb, Phoenix Essence, Ether Core

Tarn Valco

, Level 15 Barbarian

*Lucky*

*Blessed*

Power: 25

Health: 22/22

Gold: 13

Inventory: Helbaerend (WP: 10, Water, Ice and Lightning Elemental, Hollow Blade, Grand Potion Stored), Fauxthril Spear (WP: 6), Phoenix Essence, Remedy, Holy Bomb, Shovel, Pickaxe, Dragon Scale

Mallelio

(NPC)

Level 15 1/2 Sage

Power: 16

Health: 6/30

Ether: 18/22

Gold: 0

Inventory: Wooden Staff (WP: 1), Topaz (Lightning)

Atramor grins as Mallelio's magic causes a faint buzzing on his wounds before dissipating, nearly fully healed.

"Alright, mates, it's mostly just a matter of waitin' and healin' now. Mallelio, I think ya' should take this round to heal yourself."

Deftly pulling a crinkled scroll of paper out of his cloak, he slowly read off of the aged parchment. Runes and glyphs glowing a faint orange, he prepared to Seal Emperor Brunt.

Atramor

Tarn

Mallelio

Round 6 Emperor Brunt Battle

Mallelio heals himself - No Heal

Atramor seals Brunt - Seal

Tarn v. Emperor Brunt B - Miss Shield

Mallelio coughs feebly and cannot muster the strength to heal himself. Atramor concentrates on his scroll and seals their original foe. Tarn grins and spins his ax, slicing through the original copy. He roars with pleasure and without thinking stabs at the Emperor as well. The Emperor stumbles back, and he and his double emerge from the mist once more as the poison bubbles.

The Enemies

Spirit of Emperor Brunt

Level 16 Undead

*Badly Poisoned*

*Sealed*

Health: 275/400

SP: 2

Special: Emperor’s Rite -

Banishes

his foe from the battle. The foe cannot act/be acted upon the next round, and returns to the battle with ten less health.

Drops: Ancient Crown

Spirit of Emperor Brunt E

Level 16 Undead

Health: 10/10

SP: 2

Special: Emperor’s Rite -

Banishes

his foe from the battle. The foe cannot act/be acted upon the next round, and returns to the battle with ten less health.

Drops: Nothing

The Party

Atramor Gibbin

, Level 19 Witch *Acting Party Leader*

Power: 28

Health: 22/22 (-14 for remainder of Quest)

Defense: 2

Ether: 7/8 (-9 for remainder of Quest)

Gold: 12

Inventory: Ratsbane, WP: 10, Sand Worm Hide, Witch's Talisman, Black Katana, WP: 8, Staff of the Elven Warlock, WP: 5, Scroll of Sealing, Grand Tonic, Fire Bomb, Phoenix Essence, Ether Core

Tarn Valco

, Level 15 Barbarian

*Lucky*

*Blessed*

Power: 25

Health: 22/22

Gold: 13

Inventory: Helbaerend (WP: 10, Water, Ice and Lightning Elemental, Hollow Blade, Grand Potion Stored), Fauxthril Spear (WP: 6), Phoenix Essence, Remedy, Holy Bomb, Shovel, Pickaxe, Dragon Scale

Mallelio

(NPC)

Level 15 1/2 Sage

Power: 16

Health: 6/30

Ether: 18/22

Gold: 0

Inventory: Wooden Staff (WP: 1), Topaz (Lightning)

"Ah, it's no problem, mate. Better than a miss, eh?"

Atramor's hands glow starkly in the oppressing, dreary mist, attempting to heal Mallelio.

Atramor

Tarn

Mallelio

Round 7 Emperor Brunt Battle

Atramor heals Mallelio - Heals More

Tarn v. Emperor Brunt E - Critical Hit

Mallelio does nothing

Free Hits

Emperor Brunt v. Atramor (-8)

The party springs into action. Atramor patches up Mallelio, and Tarn hacks the newest spirit apart. Mallelio raises his staff against the original spirit so that Atramor does not get hurt, but Atramor shakes his head and takes the hit (-6) as his poison sucks away at the Emperor (-10).

The Enemies

Spirit of Emperor Brunt

Level 16 Undead

*Badly Poisoned*

*Sealed*

Health: 265/400

SP: 2

Special: Emperor’s Rite -

Banishes

his foe from the battle. The foe cannot act/be acted upon the next round, and returns to the battle with ten less health.

Drops: Ancient Crown

The Party

Atramor Gibbin

, Level 19 Witch *Acting Party Leader*

Power: 28

Health: 22/22 (-14 for remainder of Quest)

Defense: 2

Ether: 6/8 (-9 for remainder of Quest)

Gold: 12

Inventory: Ratsbane, WP: 10, Sand Worm Hide, Witch's Talisman, Black Katana, WP: 8, Staff of the Elven Warlock, WP: 5, Scroll of Sealing, Grand Tonic, Fire Bomb, Phoenix Essence, Ether Core

Tarn Valco

, Level 15 Barbarian

*Lucky*

*Blessed*

Power: 25

Health: 22/22

Gold: 13

Inventory: Helbaerend (WP: 10, Water, Ice and Lightning Elemental, Hollow Blade, Grand Potion Stored), Fauxthril Spear (WP: 6), Phoenix Essence, Remedy, Holy Bomb, Shovel, Pickaxe, Dragon Scale

Mallelio

(NPC)

Level 15 1/2 Sage

Power: 16

Health: 30/30

Ether: 18/22

Gold: 0

Inventory: Wooden Staff (WP: 1), Topaz (Lightning)

Oh, good.

Atramor lets himself be thrown into the ground once again by Brunt, with only a pained grunt as his response. He spat what may as well be venom at the undead emperor's bony feet in return, standing and attempting to throw off the bruises he'd been given. He lifted the scroll, once again trying to Seal him.

"Could use a heal, Mallelio. Tarn, I think ya' should stay put."

Tarn

Atramor

Mallelio

You can autoplay rounds of Tarn and Mallelio doing nothing while I continue to try to Seal Brunt until I run out of either, to move things along. The venom's gonna be doing most of the work.

Tarn gripped his axe, dearly wishing to strike at the sealed spirit Emperor who had wanted Ella as a sacrifice.

"To do nothing is not in my nature, Atramor, but I see your wisdom. We can't afford to have him split up into any more enemies."

Between this and the Count Shadeaux fight in Quest#34, I think we might have to think about some kind of auto-targeting mechanic to stop players gaming the system like this. Either than or attempting to Seal an already Sealed enemy is again a 50/50 shot.

No offense to you, CMP, it's been a very sound strategy considering what we are facing, and absolutely legitimate withing the rules of the game.

Hell, I don't care about Sealing, I just want to delay a free hit as long as possible. Against an enemy that multiplies himself based on how much damage he takes, I honestly feel fine about taking advantage of our resources and preventing getting obliterated. We were nearly screwed round two.

"Mate, if you're feelin' lucky enough to hit Brunt and then take out whatever copy he produces, be my guest. Just make sure you don't make more than one at a time."

To propel the battle along, Tarn hacks at Spirit of Emperor Brunt from the front row.

"Don't worry, I'll deal with any duplicates, but I can't stand here and just watch him be poisoned. It is not an honourable fight."

"I don't see how hittin' 'im with an enchanted piece of metal is any more honorable than lettin' his rotted flesh fester with venom, but what the hell?"

"At least this way I am fighting him face to face - man to, um, ghost."

"I can see his face from right over here....heh."

An exasperated sigh echoed in Atramor's head. McCafferey had landed on a piece of rock jutting from the wall, observing the fight otherwise quietly.

Round 8 Emperor Brunt Battle

Atramor seals Emepror Brunt - No Sealing

Tarn v. Emperor Brunt - Miss

Mallelio does nothing

Atramor tries to fire his scroll once more, but it fails. Tarn swings at the Emepror, but misses. The poison continues it's effect (-10).

The Enemies

Spirit of Emperor Brunt

Level 16 Undead

*Badly Poisoned*

*Sealed*

Health: 255/400

SP: 2

Special: Emperor’s Rite -

Banishes

his foe from the battle. The foe cannot act/be acted upon the next round, and returns to the battle with ten less health.

Drops: Ancient Crown

The Party

Atramor Gibbin

, Level 19 Witch *Acting Party Leader*

Power: 28

Health: 22/22 (-14 for remainder of Quest)

Defense: 2

Ether: 6/8 (-9 for remainder of Quest)

Gold: 12

Inventory: Ratsbane, WP: 10, Sand Worm Hide, Witch's Talisman, Black Katana, WP: 8, Staff of the Elven Warlock, WP: 5, Scroll of Sealing, Grand Tonic, Fire Bomb, Phoenix Essence, Ether Core

Tarn Valco

, Level 15 Barbarian

*Lucky*

*Blessed*

Power: 25

Health: 22/22

Gold: 13

Inventory: Helbaerend (WP: 10, Water, Ice and Lightning Elemental, Hollow Blade, Grand Potion Stored), Fauxthril Spear (WP: 6), Phoenix Essence, Remedy, Holy Bomb, Shovel, Pickaxe, Dragon Scale

Mallelio

(NPC)

Level 15 1/2 Sage

Power: 16

Health: 30/30

Ether: 18/22

Gold: 0

Inventory: Wooden Staff (WP: 1), Topaz (Lightning)

Round 9 Emperor Brunt Battle

Atramor seals Emepror Brunt - Seals

Tarn v. Emperor Brunt - Damage Shield

Mallelio does nothing

Atramor gives his scroll another go, this time firing an orange glowing rope that entraps the Emperor again. Tarn charges forward, feeling confident and hacks at the Emperor, who stumbles back (-[25-2]=23). Two Emperors emerge from the mist. The poison eats away at the bones (-10).

The Enemies

Spirit of Emperor Brunt

Level 16 Undead

*Badly Poisoned*

*Sealed*

Health: 222/400

SP: 2

Special: Emperor’s Rite -

Banishes

his foe from the battle. The foe cannot act/be acted upon the next round, and returns to the battle with ten less health.

Drops: Ancient Crown

Spirit of Emperor Brunt F

Level 16 Undead

Health: 23/20

SP: 2

Special: Emperor’s Rite -

Banishes

his foe from the battle. The foe cannot act/be acted upon the next round, and returns to the battle with ten less health.

Drops: Ancient Crown

The Party

Atramor Gibbin

, Level 19 Witch *Acting Party Leader*

Power: 28

Health: 22/22 (-14 for remainder of Quest)

Defense: 2

Ether: 5/8 (-9 for remainder of Quest)

Gold: 12

Inventory: Ratsbane, WP: 10, Sand Worm Hide, Witch's Talisman, Black Katana, WP: 8, Staff of the Elven Warlock, WP: 5, Scroll of Sealing, Grand Tonic, Fire Bomb, Phoenix Essence, Ether Core

Tarn Valco

, Level 15 Barbarian

*Lucky*

*Blessed*

Power: 25

Health: 22/22

Gold: 13

Inventory: Helbaerend (WP: 10, Water, Ice and Lightning Elemental, Hollow Blade, Grand Potion Stored), Fauxthril Spear (WP: 6), Phoenix Essence, Remedy, Holy Bomb, Shovel, Pickaxe, Dragon Scale

Mallelio

(NPC)

Level 15 1/2 Sage

Power: 16

Health: 30/30

Ether: 18/22

Gold: 0

Inventory: Wooden Staff (WP: 1), Topaz (Lightning)

"Hmm...I'm gonna keep sealin' the original Brunt. Mallelio, how about you take a crack at the copy with your healin' magic, and then heal Tarn next round? Tarn, mate, I suggest ya' stay put 'til either Mallelio heals your or 'the gods smile upon you' or whatever keeps healin' you at the end of these rounds..."

Free hit by the copy, unfortunately.

Atramor

Mallelio

Tarn

Round 10 Emperor Brunt Battle

Atramor seals Emepror Brunt - No Sealing

Tarn v. Emperor Brunt F - Shield Miss

Mallelio does nothing

Atramor's rocky record continues as his scroll malfunctions once more. Tarn slices through the newest Emperor and then continues his forward movement to ram the tip of his weapon into the original's gut (-[25-2]=23), creating yet another spirit. The poison does what it's meant to do (-10).

The Enemies

Spirit of Emperor Brunt

Level 16 Undead

*Badly Poisoned*

*Sealed*

Health: 189/400

SP: 2

Special: Emperor’s Rite -

Banishes

his foe from the battle. The foe cannot act/be acted upon the next round, and returns to the battle with ten less health.

Drops: Ancient Crown

Spirit of Emperor Brunt G

Level 16 Undead

Health: 23/23

SP: 2

Special: Emperor’s Rite -

Banishes

his foe from the battle. The foe cannot act/be acted upon the next round, and returns to the battle with ten less health.

Drops: Nothing

The Party

Atramor Gibbin

, Level 19 Witch *Acting Party Leader*

Power: 28

Health: 22/22 (-14 for remainder of Quest)

Defense: 2

Ether: 5/8 (-9 for remainder of Quest)

Gold: 12

Inventory: Ratsbane, WP: 10, Sand Worm Hide, Witch's Talisman, Black Katana, WP: 8, Staff of the Elven Warlock, WP: 5, Scroll of Sealing, Grand Tonic, Fire Bomb, Phoenix Essence, Ether Core

Tarn Valco

, Level 15 Barbarian

*Lucky*

*Blessed*

Power: 25

Health: 22/22

Gold: 13

Inventory: Helbaerend (WP: 10, Water, Ice and Lightning Elemental, Hollow Blade, Grand Potion Stored), Fauxthril Spear (WP: 6), Phoenix Essence, Remedy, Holy Bomb, Shovel, Pickaxe, Dragon Scale

Mallelio

(NPC)

Level 15 1/2 Sage

Power: 16

Health: 30/30

Ether: 18/22

Gold: 0

Inventory: Wooden Staff (WP: 1), Topaz (Lightning)

...few unexciting rounds...

Atramor pauses in the middle of his millionth read of the Scroll of Sealing. Instead, she rolls it up, tossing it neatly to Mallelio.

Atramor

Tarn

Mallelio

"Don't let 'im get a free hit, Tarn."

New autoplay order:

Atramor does nothing (Or attacks Brunt's clone from the front row, if there is one)

Tarn attacks Emperor Brunt (Or his clone from the front row, if there is one)

Mallelio seals Brunt

...Until Brunt dies.

"This is not pretty but certainly effective!" grinned Tarn, tired but happy he had given the spirit and it's duplicates a good bashing so far.

I agree with new auto play orders, let,s hope this finishes before we run out of Ether.

...few more rounds...

Round 18 Emperor Brunt Battle

Atramor v. Emperor Brunt I - Miss

Tarn v. Emperor Brunt J - Hit

Mallelio seals Emperor Brunt - Seal

Atramor is unable to find his knife's path through the mist, and is unable to stab his target, though Tarn is able to hack through his. Mallelio seals the Emperor as he cries out in frustration and pain (-10).

The Enemies

Spirit of Emperor Brunt

Level 16 Undead

*Badly Poisoned*

*Sealed*

Health: 30/400

SP: 2

Special: Emperor’s Rite -

Banishes

his foe from the battle. The foe cannot act/be acted upon the next round, and returns to the battle with ten less health.

Drops: Ancient Crown

Spirit of Emperor Brunt I

*Hexed*

Level 16 Undead

Health: 10/33

SP: 2

Special: Emperor’s Rite -

Banishes

his foe from the battle. The foe cannot act/be acted upon the next round, and returns to the battle with ten less health.

Drops: Nothing

The Party

Atramor Gibbin

, Level 19 Witch *Acting Party Leader*

Power: 28

Health: 22/22 (-14 for remainder of Quest)

Defense: 2

Ether: 3/8 (-9 for remainder of Quest)

Gold: 12

Inventory: Ratsbane, WP: 10, Sand Worm Hide, Witch's Talisman, Black Katana, WP: 8, Staff of the Elven Warlock, WP: 5, Grand Tonic, Fire Bomb, Phoenix Essence, Ether Core

Tarn Valco

, Level 15 Barbarian

*Lucky*

*Blessed*

Power: 25

Health: 22/22

Gold: 13

Inventory: Helbaerend (WP: 10, Water, Ice and Lightning Elemental, Hollow Blade, Grand Potion Stored), Fauxthril Spear (WP: 6), Phoenix Essence, Remedy, Holy Bomb, Shovel, Pickaxe, Dragon Scale

Mallelio

(NPC)

Level 15 1/2 Sage

Power: 16

Health: 30/30

Ether: 17/22

Gold: 0

Inventory: Wooden Staff (WP: 1), Topaz (Lightning), Scroll of Sealing

Round 19 Emperor Brunt Battle

Atramor v. Emperor Brunt I - Damage

Tarn v. Emperor Brunt - Critical Hit

Mallelio seals Emperor Brunt I - Seal

Atramor's enemy lunges at him suddenly (-14). Tarn axes down the original Emperor and Mallelio turns around and seals the newest Emperor.

The Enemies

Spirit of Emperor Brunt I

*Hexed*

Level 16 Undead

*Sealed*

Health: 10/33

SP: 2

Special: Emperor’s Rite -

Banishes

his foe from the battle. The foe cannot act/be acted upon the next round, and returns to the battle with ten less health.

Drops: Nothing

The Party

Atramor Gibbin

, Level 19 Witch *Acting Party Leader*

Power: 28

Health: 8/22 (-14 for remainder of Quest)

Defense: 2

Ether: 3/8 (-9 for remainder of Quest)

Gold: 12

Inventory: Ratsbane, WP: 10, Sand Worm Hide, Witch's Talisman, Black Katana, WP: 8, Staff of the Elven Warlock, WP: 5, Grand Tonic, Fire Bomb, Phoenix Essence, Ether Core

Tarn Valco

, Level 15 Barbarian

*Lucky*

*Blessed*

Power: 25

Health: 22/22

Gold: 13

Inventory: Helbaerend (WP: 10, Water, Ice and Lightning Elemental, Hollow Blade, Grand Potion Stored), Fauxthril Spear (WP: 6), Phoenix Essence, Remedy, Holy Bomb, Shovel, Pickaxe, Dragon Scale

Mallelio

(NPC)

Level 15 1/2 Sage

Power: 16

Health: 30/30

Ether: 16/22

Gold: 0

Inventory: Wooden Staff (WP: 1), Topaz (Lightning), Scroll of Sealing

Round 20 Emperor Brunt Battle

Atramor v. Emperor Brunt I - Miss

Tarn v. Emperor Brunt I - Critical Hit

Mallelio seals Emperor Brunt I - No Seal

Tarn's blade cleaves through the final enemy. The heroes pant. The battle is over.

The Party

Atramor Gibbin

, Level 19 1/2 Witch *Acting Party Leader*

Power: 28

Health: 8/22 (-14 for remainder of Quest)

Defense: 2

Ether: 3/8 (-9 for remainder of Quest)

Gold: 12

Inventory: Ratsbane, WP: 10, Sand Worm Hide, Witch's Talisman, Black Katana, WP: 8, Staff of the Elven Warlock, WP: 5, Grand Tonic, Fire Bomb, Phoenix Essence, Ether Core

Tarn Valco

, Level 15 1/2 Barbarian

*Lucky*

*Blessed*

Power: 25

Health: 22/22

Gold: 13

Inventory: Helbaerend (WP: 10, Water, Ice and Lightning Elemental, Hollow Blade, Grand Potion Stored), Fauxthril Spear (WP: 6), Phoenix Essence, Remedy, Holy Bomb, Shovel, Pickaxe, Dragon Scale

Mallelio

(NPC)

Level 16 Sage

Power: 17

Health: 31/31

Ether: 17/23

Gold: 0

Inventory: Wooden Staff (WP: 1), Topaz (Lightning), Scroll of Sealing

Loot

Ancient Crown - Ancient Crown of Dastan, buried with Emperor Brunt. Artifact, headwear. Wearer's first successful strike each battle curses the opponent.

Edited September 16, 2012 by Zepher

[Zepher]

Atramor pants, spitting on the original Brunt's misty, halved corpse.

"Could use a heal, Mallelio...you hold onto the scroll, at least until we split up."

Grumbling as he glances at his moderate injury, he strides over to the body, prying a dusky, tarnished crown off the skull. He rolls it in his hands, examining it briefly.

"I ain't gonna lie, Tarn, I could do a lotta' damage with this thing, though it is your turn to get some loot. If ya' like, I'd gladly trade you my Sand Worm Hide for it. It'll keep ya' alive longer, and whether you're plannin' to go Berserker or not, armorin' always comes in handy. If not, though, I won't grudge ya' the crown."

On a nearly off-topic note, I just realized I could be out there dealing octuple damage to

the Chimera

right now...

Atramor hands Tarn the crown, and the young Barbarian shivers at its coldness to his touch.

"This is a powerful artefact indeed, the ability to curse an opponent would be of immense value as a Bezerker. But I would not use such a thing. It should be buried here, Atramor, alongside its long-dead master, but I fear as always my counsel shall go unheeded.

I would not say no to your Sand Worm Hide, though. Many times in this Quest I have longed for some protection in battle, and that would be a most beneficial start."

Atramor resists the urge to roll his eyes. Tarn was one of the most honorable guys he knew, but the superstitious mystery junk he would never buy into. Nevertheless, he pulled the Sand Worm Hide from around him, handing the weathered, but sturdy garb to Tarn, pulling the Ancient Crown to him and nestling it onto the bandana over his head.

He couldn't deny a bleakness from the chipped headwear, but the worst he thought of it was how it looked, and even that was inconsequential.

"Thanks, mate. No doubt this'll come in handy. Well, what do we do now, Ella? Your baleful undead emperor fella's not comin' back here anytime soon."

I want to see an updated pic with a crown!

Tarn wrapped the hide around his shoulders, trying not to think of the creature it had been taken from. He did not entirely begrudge Atramor the Crown, as he had used very effective tactics in the battle and had made the victory over the ghostly Emperor possible.

Likewise, he turned to Ella and asked, "Have we redeemed ourselves in some small way from the tragic death of Constance?"

Mallelio heals Tarn as the heroes talk and exchange items.

The Party

Atramor Gibbin

, Level 19 1/2 Witch *Acting Party Leader*

Power: 28

Health: 22/22 (-14 for remainder of Quest)

Ether: 3/8 (-9 for remainder of Quest)

Gold: 12

Inventory: Ratsbane, WP: 10, Witch's Talisman, Black Katana, WP: 8, Staff of the Elven Warlock, WP: 5, Grand Tonic, Fire Bomb, Phoenix Essence, Ether Core, Ancient Crown (Give Enemy Cursed Effect on first hit of battle)

Tarn Valco

, Level 15 1/2 Barbarian

Power: 25

Health: 22/22

Defense: 2

Gold: 13

Inventory: Helbaerend (WP: 10, Water, Ice and Lightning Elemental, Hollow Blade), Fauxthril Spear (WP: 6), Sand Worm Hide, Phoenix Essence, Remedy, Holy Bomb, Shovel, Pickaxe

Mallelio

(NPC)

Level 16 Sage

Power: 17

Health: 31/31

Ether: 15/23

Gold: 0

Inventory: Wooden Staff (WP: 1), Topaz (Lightning), Scroll of Sealing

"Thank you kindly heroes. This is a small step forward, there is no doubt in that, but it is a step forward. The U'Kin will hear of your kindness. No doubt it will help them to reconcile with the Empire and the heroes of Heroica after U'Stus' death."

"Tarn, let your heart be at ease over the death of Constance. The land of Dastan is harsh. When an ally dies, our saying is always the same. May the Dragons set fire to your heart and fly it away. It is the belief that all the people of Dastan have its fate in their heart. They have the fire to lead Dastan to its destiny. They have the power. You acted with the fire in your heart, and while it led you astray, the people of Dastan must always listen to their fire. My fire is my prophecies. I must follow them. You heroes have a different kind of fire, and you must follow it."

Mallelio knells by the fallen Emperor.

"He too had the fate of Dastan at heart, no matter how misguided he may have been. He was a true Emperor of Dastan. Once more, may the Dragons set fire to your heart and fly it away."

Mallelio stands, and addresses the heroes once more.

"Thank you again for your assistance. You are ever helpful to Dastan. We will help you make amends with Emperor Severus. It is part of our duty."

The heroes start to head towards the exit. Ella leads the way. Mallelio hangs back with the heroes and whispers to them.

"Heroes, Ella is Brunt's kin. He wished to protect her. His methods were vile... but he too had the gift of sight while he was alive. I beg you, keep on eye on my little Ella. She is bold and strong, but she can not deal with all the dangers of the world yet, though she thinks she can."

The heroes, Ella and Mallelio step out into the streets of Drakencourt once more. The mist has grown so that now it is impossible to see anything other than it. Suddenly Ella gasps and tumbles to the floor. Mallelio goes to her and throws his cloak over her. He pats her back as she shivers.

Atramor nods in understanding to Mallelio, waving only a fraction of the mist away irritably as he did so.

"We've gotta watch most of ya' anyway, don't see how watchin' one more's gonna hurt."

As Ella collapsed, he merely frowned, eyes hardly able to pierce the veil of white fog that'd settled over Dastan. McCafferey didn't seem bothered by the intrusion, simply observing the corpse of Brunt before she landed comfortably atop the emperor's former crown.

"Damn it, what is with this stuff?"

Zeph, I used the stored Grand Potion and the Dragon Scale in the battle, so they should be removed from my inventory. Shame, that Dragon Scale was great!

Tarn rushed to Ella's side and knelt down next to the prophet. "Mallelio, what is happening to her?"

Ella stands up in a cold sweat.

"I have seen the future, heroes. I have seen Drakencourt. It will burn. I have seen Rito overhead and soldiers underfoot, Lion Knights, Dastanian, clashing, dying. I have seen U'Vires, Loren, Roland, XX, Blackenord, Lyons treading on our city, soiling it. I have seen fire and ice. I have seen Wren and her Chaos Beasts entering our city. Mechanical beasts ripping through the flesh of guards. Bombs going off, men rising out of the ground. I have seen it all. Our city is in grave danger. We are in grave danger."

"Lady Ella, my dear child, calm yourself. Drakencourt has never been breached. It has survived three sieges successfully without a single enemy entering the city. We are a people of power. We will survive this."

"Heroes, you must prevent this."

Atramor stares vacantly at Ella.

"...U'Vires, who, who, XX, who, and who?...Er, I'm gonna go ahead and assume those are Lions Knights...the Rito, well, we can only hope the others have them fightin' for us at this point...mechanical beasts...the Inventor, maybe? Look, how're we s'post to stop them? We don't have a damn clue what they're doin' right now. Unless you 'ave any ideas?"

Tarn's brow furrowed deeper at Ella's news, even as he fought the impulse to gently wipe the sweat from her face.

"I believe the other heroes mentioned Roland, he is another one of the Emperors, who had turned on them.

I think it is time we rejoined our comrades."

"Ah, yes, the traitor emperor....erm, but didn't everyone else go off somewhere in the mountains to get this Rito peoples' help? How the hell are s'post to find them?"

OoC: You know Lyons. He's the Lion Knight you met in the cave with Maw, Mane and Claw, and then again at the marketplace. Also, sorry, the site keeps making my posts disappear, I'm freaking out right now.

"Atramor, you do know Lord Blackenord. He is the inventor, and he is under custody. Constance's final act was arresting him, after Nyx was able to tell her that she was shot by him in U'Stus' house. I have trouble remember too, sometimes. Politics is not my game."

Phil suddenly approaches the heroes.

"Thank the Dragons I found you. Ella's personal guard, ha! I knew I'd find you here. You, m'lady, are too mischievous for your own good. Fighting long dead Emperors... and you too, heroes. You bite off more than your mouth can hold. Your allies are, as we speak, trying to force entry to Roland's Wing. A guard sent for me. I thought I'd collect you to help out."

"Lead the way, Victor. And, while we walk, a word."

Mallelio and Phil strike out towards the palace. The heroes can hear Mallelio mentioning different names from Ella's vision. Phil nods sagely.

The heroes arrive in the palace, and are greeted by both the heroes who went to the Rito, and those who left to fight the Chimera. Nikolai promptly walks towards Phil.

(You may post in Quest 29).