Heroica RPG - Quest #79: Fading Spark

[Endgame]

"Much appreciated, miss!

Ugh... I moved to Taurost to get away from all that commotion. I guess it just has a habit of following you."

The Party:

Althior Emorith (And Finnegan)

Level 35 Necromancer *Earns triple XP*

Power: 47 (52 for spells)

Power Bonus: +5 Spells

Defense: 6 (4+2)

Health: 45/45 (5+5+Chicken Drumstick (1)+34)

Ether: 30/48 (5+5+34+4)

Gold: 100

Equipment: Scepter of Divine Affinity (WP:12, Has ⅙ chance to deal Cursed effect on attacks and ⅙ chance to deal Blessed effect on successful healing, Staff), Spellbound Gloves (+5 power when casting Spells, doubled if target is weak to Element, Handwear), Ethereal Cloak (SP:2, Max Ether +4, Backwear), Medal of Glory (Wearer earns triple experience, Accessory), Robe of the Elven Necromancer (SP: 4, Body Wear)

Inventory: Dragoro (WP:8, Wand), Skeleton Decoy, Potion x6, Tonic x10, Grand Potion x4, Grand Tonic, Ether Core x3, Bedroll, Remedy x8, Mead, Smelling Salts, Diamond (Light), Topaz (Lightning), Amethyst (Darkness), Ruby (Fire), Sapphire (Wind), Garnet (Earth), Opal (Ice), Aquamarine (Water), Emerald (Wood), Skull Shield (SP: 6, immune to darkness elemental damage), Bone x3, Elixirs x3, Phoenix Incense x2, Dragon Scales, Garnet Lamp of Summoning, Deadly Poison, Grating Stone x2, Tasty Fish

Undead Iron Scorpion, Level 28

Undead Iron Scorpion, Level 28

Shade of Erick, Level 30

Shade of Seymour, Level 22

Shade Of Silver, Level 15 "Gnnnnnggggh..."

Johon [AKA Alf Gregory] (Bricksandparts) 25 years old male human Barbarian > Raider *Lucky!* *Hastened!*

Level: 25.33

Power: 36 (24+8+4)

Health: 33/40 (24+8+1+7+0)

Shield Power: (5+1)

Ether: ~/0

Positive effects: *Immune to:* (*Fragile*, *Cursed* *Stunned* ), *Natural Respite*

Negative effects: (none)

Gold: 2800 (1726(1), 0GB(50), 0CB(50), 0GO(80), 0CC(70), 0GC(100), 0M)

Equipment:

Weapon - Sword of Decay (WP:8) - (once the target is inflicted with damage they lose a quarter of the power of the strike each following turn for three turns. the effect cannot be compounded with more strikes. Suitable to Mages, Knights and Barbarians.)

Shield - None

Artefact 1 (L1-9) - Heavy Armour - SP:5, protects from fragile-effect, suitable for barbarians and knights

Artefact 2 (L10-19) - Bravado Boots - 1/6 chance of being Lucky at the beginning of every battle

Artefact 3 (L20-29) - Sticky Gloves - Increases the amount of gold stolen by 50% (rounded up), suitable for rogues and beast warriors.[

Artefact 4 (L30-39) -

Artefact 5 (L40-49) -

Artefact 6 (L50+) -

Extra Artefacts: Helmet (+1 max health), Blessed Amulet – Protects from cursed-effect. Dog Statuette - (suitable for anyone, SP: 1, once named (Rover), speaking the name summons a dog almost certainly to tag along on madcap adventures and make snippy comments.), Hide of The Bleeding - restores 10 HP and 5 ether for every enemy the wearer kills, suitable for anyone, Scarlet Hood - +4 to power, immunity to stunned

Extra Weapons: Greatsword (WP:3), Focal Staff (WP:5, Focus Fire-Roll a 3 for 5 ether Suitable for clerics and mages),Gladius (WP: 15, Darkness elemental, 1/3 chance of Fragile on succesful hits), Stalker’s Mallet (WP: 8, usable by Knights, Barbarians, and Harlots. Has a 1/2 chance to seal the enemy) Tools: Shovel (1), Pick-axe (2), Magnifying Glass (1), Magic Compass (1)

Consumables: Potion (2), Venom (2), Mead (4), Smelling Salts (11), Nostrum (11), Trial Brew (1), Grand Tonic, Emergency Essence, Ambrosia

Elements: Aquamarine (1), Emerald (1), Topaz (1)

Scrolls: Scroll of Sleep (1), Scroll of Blindness (1), Scroll of Sealing (1), Scroll of Confusion (1)

Quest items: Blue Rose

Karie Alderflask (Played by Kintobor) *Party Leader!*

22 year old Human Rogue Witch, lvl 16.5

Power: 21 (lvl 15 + WP: 6)

Health: 22/22

Ether: 19/22

Gold: 77

Defence: 2

Equipment: Sexy (WP: 7, Rapier, Disregards SP, usable by Knights and Rogues), Ethereal Cloak (SP +2, Max. Ether +4), Paper Doll (Accessory, Protects from the Hexed effect)

Inventory: Grand Tonic (2), Mead (2), Remedy (1), Venom (7), Nostrum (1), Mulled Wine (1), Smoke bomb (1), Pixie Dust (1), Grand Potion (2) Telescope (1), Bedroll (1)

Quest Items: Entry 11, Map of Brendenton (1), Spider Coin (worth 1 gp)

Aretefacts/Weapons:Heirloom Dagger (WP: 3), Scroll of Newtity (costs 10 ether)(usable by ex-Amphibians only), Lover's Locket (Accessory, Protects from enamoured effect), Trickster's Mask of the Elf (Accessory, changes user's appearance into an Elf) The Rat Queen's Cape (Backwear, all Vermin type are Enamored with the wearer for the first three rounds of combat, Suitable for Alchemists, Beast Warriors, Chi Monks, and Witches), Catsuit (Wearer has 1/3 chance to completely avoid rolls of COUNTER and DAMAGE and Free Hits; suitable to women only; bodywear)

Gemstones: Topaz

QM Note: After everyobdy takes advantage of this shopping oppurtunity, you folks can head to the next location.

[Kintobor]

"Commotion? Do you mind going into further detail?"

[Endgame]

"Not demons specifically, if that's wha you're asking. I just wanted to perform my trade without the hustle and bustle of city life getting in the way, I guess. Being an alchemist isn't easy - from a logisitcal standpoint. Graduated salutatorion of the class - nearly was the top, but I got beat out at the last second - and I just wanted to do my thing. I was certified. But nope. You have to jump through hoop after hoop to get every single little ingredient. Going through the Guild was a nightmare sometimes. I could go weeks without getting new supplies, sometimes months.

Not to mention the fact that the competition was brutal - I had my own concotions poisoned by competitors from time to time. Ya wouldn't believe how many times I got the flu, only to recieve a taunting letter that some other alchemist was responsible. Of course, the Town Watch did squat.

Eventually, I just, threw my hands in the air and decided enough as enough. Moved here, and now I operate on my own terms, using all natural ingredients. A lot of the residents here in Taurost have similar stories, but you'll have to ask them."

Edited August 25, 2013 by Endgame

[Kintobor]

"Do you mind informing me of who beat you out? I'm a little curious."

[Endgame]

"Masson Cour. He also Mastered in Engineering, or so I heard - Valedictorian there, too. Plowed through his studies in record time. I heard he was here yesterday, but I was out gathering ingreidents."

QM Note: I always like acknowledging the aftershock of quests - this isn't really meant to be directed at Karie.

Edited August 25, 2013 by Endgame

[Kintobor]

OOC: And here I was hoping it was Costello Watt.

"Can you tell me how long ago that was? Just a bit curious is all."

[Endgame]

QM Note: the watts seemed signifigantly older then 25 to me, esepcailly Costello.

"...Musta been 7 years ago - almost 8, at this point. Here he was, the guy knocking back degrees when some people his age weren't even admitted yet. I was 19 when we graduated.

You know the man?"

[Kintobor]

"You could say that. We've met on occasion."

Karie thought there was no need to brag about who her boyfriend is in front of the alchemist, particularly since she seemed to have a grudge on him.

[Endgame]

Margaret chuckles.

"That right, huh? Well, damn shame I couldn't meet up with him yesterday. Sure, Mason outdid me, but we were lab partners and friends. Not too many alchemists around these parts I could talk to.

Anyone else buying anything?"

[Kintobor]

"If not, I say we check out these huts. We got time to kill now, so best to use it to our advantage and see what the others know."

She hoped they wouldn't go into gory details about whatever happened to them. She wasn't fond of discussing hexing. Something else was bothering her though. The figure from the... dream? Or perhaps it was an epiphany? She didn't know, but she did want to know who it was, or what it represented.

Edited August 26, 2013 by Kintobor

[Endgame]

QM Note: Bricksandparts and K-Nut have yet to post in about 48 hours (despite the fact I sometimes see them viewing the thread while I'm posting ) So I guess I'll move this along to the cabins.

Margaret goes back to brewing full force, carefully pouring vials. She heats one with a match in her right hand, in shakes another in her left hand, very meticulous about her craft.

"Gonna be 15 or 20 minutes, I'd say. Come back soon, and the Plague Venom Repellant will be ready."

Deciding to kill time by asking some of the other local residents of Taurost for information, the party sets off towards the small cabin district of Taurost. As they begin their short walk through the small settlement, the party does not know of the sinister things brewing deeper in the forest...

-Meanwhile...-

Taking advantage of the barriers they had created, the Oculoids plot their next ove deep into the forest. Although disgraced by fleeing, they refused to be defeated by the heroes yet again. The Chief had expended his last drop of composure while speaking to the heroes, his wrath now no longer being concealed beneath layers of calm. Normally his threats were short and to the point: However, when the Chief began to get vague, that was when you did as he said without question.

The Chief looks down at his subordinates, ready to begin his briefing.

"Now, before I begin, allow me to make myself painfully clear: failure will not be tolerated."

There is an anxious nod from the other three Oculoids.

"Now, if our numbers were greater - or, hell, if we simply could replace one of you with a chief - defeating those pestilent beings would be done in a matter of seconds. We could get them to turn their blades on their own necks, if we so chose. However, that is all theory. All I have right now is you despicable lot. Currently.

I believe reinforcements are in order..."

The Red Oculoid raises a tentacle. The Oculoid Chief emits a short groan before calling on him, fully aware that he was the dullest of the three.

"...Yes, Red?"

"But, sir... There are only three hundred of us, and they all are back at base... That is almost halfway across the world, sir, and the heroes could be here within the ho-"

The Oculoid's sentence is cut short when his superior lashes out against him, a razor sharp tentacle splitting him wide open and spurting ink and plasm. He even manages to chop off a tentacle and a half. Red falls to the floor, trying desperately to pick up his scattered pieces and reassemble himself.

"Even you acknowledge yourself as one of the most idiotic Oculoids to ever be created - so why do you dare try to point out your Chief's logical fallacies before he is done?"

"S-s-sorry, sir... Forgive me, please!"

"The next time I call on you, I expect praise, Red. Not more of your moronic rambling.

Now, can anyone educate Red on why his figures were off? Green, you're a sharp one. Give it a shot."

Green and blue rattle of statistics in an attempt to get on their Chief's good side for the day.

"Three hundred of us back at base, but even more already dispatched."

"Or, to be more accurate, three hundred sorted Oculoids at base, about fifty in training at base, and about seventy five that are not yet sorted into a squad."

The Chief seemed satisfied enough.

"Very good, both of you. Your competence almost makes up for Red's overwhelming inadequacy. Almost, but not quite. Now, Red, I know you're busy trying to pick up your mutilated body parts, but please, do try to listen."

"Y-yes, sir..."

"Now, despite the fact that most of our kin are at base - there is still hope. Now that Master's Final Solution has begun, there is almost a hundred of Oculoids dispatched worldwide daily

Not to mention, the fact that there are hundreds of dormant Oculoids all around Olegaia. We have been Master's eyes and ears for centuries upon centuries. Although we've grown more active these past few months, there are still some scattered Oculoids worldwide that know nothing of our current plots, just waiting to be recruited into our fold. Now, with that knowledge in mind, that means it is quite likely there are reinforcements relatively nearby, and even they don't know it.

Now, listen closely, because this is where you three come in. I already bought us some time with the Plague barricade. I want you three to split up and each of you guard one possible route of the forest. I need to prepare two incantations: One to lure wayward Oculoids here as reinforcements, and the other to bind our collective strength when the time comes. Do not engage in direct combat, but feel free to stop them in any other way you can think of. I need you to buy time for me to prepare for our final clash, and I want be there to breathe over your shoulder. Do try not to royally screw this up, all of you, because if you don't die at the hero's hands, I'll ensure you'll die at the Master's.

Now, are we clear?"

The Oculoids nod in unison.

"Yes, sir."

"Dismissed."

With that single word, the Oculoids hastily rush off to their respective posts, ready to mount a defense if the heroes try to pass through them.

The Chhief looks at the lush forest around him, preparing for one of his greatest dark magic feats. The spells he were preparing required something to power it: Thus, he began to drain the nearest life force availible to get the ether he needed: The Forest itself. The clearing around him slowly withers and dies as he writes complicated incantations on the ground, trails of ink forming intricate spirals on the soil. Every line drew life from another tree or plant, killing them almost instantly. The Clearing was slowly being reduced to barren and grey as the Chief prepared for his final bout with the heroes.

"There is far too much on the line for me to fail here... This last mission is all I need to seize the title of Oculoid Mastermind..." he mutters desperately.

But his promotion wasn't the only thing on the Chief's mind. Because he knew that if he failed, his Master would waste no time disposing of him as well.

He simply dared not to speak that thought.

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Unbenknowst to the evil brewing in the Forest Deeps, the party arrives to the cabin district of Taurost. About 10 cozy cabins were lined up side by side, some of them not housing any residents; Howeve,r it seemed the rest of Taurost was all cooped u p in one cabin, taking care of their sick. Seeing the door to that cabin ajar, the party walks in.

They see six familiar faces in here: Jack, Jill, Geoffrey, Erick, Silver, and Seymour. However, there is an air of mlancholy and sickness in the room: Everyone in here was either treating the ill or was ill themselves. Silver, Seymour, and erick make small talk with their caretakers, shuddering and wheezing. The Oculoid's possession had left them in shambles.

No one seemed to notice the hero's entry: Perhaps now would be a good time to get some information from the six villagers?

[K-Nut]

Sorry, I had my birthday Saturday and was bombarded with relatives for the past few days. My posts take a long time to write and I could never get on for that long. Should be fine from here on out.

Althior looked over the sick, realizing he probably had something to do with their state, seeing as he blasted Erick around a lot. "Us again," He catches the attention of the residents. "Now, I have a question. Margaret is out there selling things, so it made me wonder, does everyone have a separate purpose here? An activity that makes the community run as a whole,"

Edited August 26, 2013 by K-Nut

[Endgame]

QM Note: No problem, K-Nut! My first title was "Brithday Slacker", so...

"Aye, hello there, necromancer. Weird stuff happenin' while I was visitng the North, and now weird stuff is happenin' here... Thanks for knocking that bastard out of me, I guess..." Erick wheezes. Althior can almost make out a hint of disdain in his voice...

Jill looks away from the sick bodies. Its obvious she was pretty shaken from the entire experience going on today.

"I-I suppose to a degree, yes."

Silver chuckles weakly.

"Plus, there is us three fisherman. Name's Silver, nice to meet you now that I'veun-lost my marbles. I mainly fish in the Deep's Pond, freshwater fish and the like. Seymour here handles saltwater."

Silver gives Seymour a weak pat on the shoulder a she mentions his name, and the fisherman recoils in pain.

"Gnrgh! That's the broken shoulder, Silver! Whatever idiot demon that took over me was stupid enough to break my arm before the heroes even arrived, and it's still dislocated..." Seymour moans.

"Sorry, old friend..."

Geoffrey goes over to snap the shoulder back in place once more, Seymour wincing in pain. He speaks while performing the quick operation.

"I handle both, heroes. Plus, I'm teaching my son Jack here how to fish."

"Yeah, but I'm findin' that the waters near Taurost aren't for me. I'd love to fish somewhere where the fish are bigger than I am, heh..." Jack states awkwardly, not use to talking about his training.

Erick once again speaks, the Northman probably in the worst condition. The oculoid had wreaked havoc on his system, and he was burned pretty badly from the battle. His voice sounds labored and strained.

"I'm the one who builds the cabins n' such... I go to the Forest Deeps and head on up to Timber Pass... Axe down some trees, and use em' to build whatever the other villagers may need."

"Margaret makes us some side cash selling her goods to outsiders occasionally, but mostly she acts as a medic of sorts. She's the one who make sus the remedies and whatnot - gets a lot of her ingredients from Chequer Grove."

"She can brew a fine mead too, aye." Erick chuckles.

"And I'm the one who peddles the fish we reel in. That is our major income."

Edited August 26, 2013 by Endgame

[Bricksandparts]

"Until we get that repellent, I'm gonna rest some, hopefully I'll be feeling better after." Johon says resting.

[Endgame]

Johon regains 2 HP from his 10 minute long rest.

The people in the cabin look confused as the raider falls asleep on the floor, only to awake minutes after.

These people could still be asked for info...

The Party:

Althior Emorith (And Finnegan)

Level 35 Necromancer *Earns triple XP*

Power: 47 (52 for spells)

Power Bonus: +5 Spells

Defense: 6 (4+2)

Health: 45/45 (5+5+Chicken Drumstick (1)+34)

Ether: 30/48 (5+5+34+4)

Gold: 100

Equipment: Scepter of Divine Affinity (WP:12, Has ⅙ chance to deal Cursed effect on attacks and ⅙ chance to deal Blessed effect on successful healing, Staff), Spellbound Gloves (+5 power when casting Spells, doubled if target is weak to Element, Handwear), Ethereal Cloak (SP:2, Max Ether +4, Backwear), Medal of Glory (Wearer earns triple experience, Accessory), Robe of the Elven Necromancer (SP: 4, Body Wear)

Inventory: Dragoro (WP:8, Wand), Skeleton Decoy, Potion x6, Tonic x10, Grand Potion x4, Grand Tonic, Ether Core x3, Bedroll, Remedy x8, Mead, Smelling Salts, Diamond (Light), Topaz (Lightning), Amethyst (Darkness), Ruby (Fire), Sapphire (Wind), Garnet (Earth), Opal (Ice), Aquamarine (Water), Emerald (Wood), Skull Shield (SP: 6, immune to darkness elemental damage), Bone x3, Elixirs x3, Phoenix Incense x2, Dragon Scales, Garnet Lamp of Summoning, Deadly Poison, Grating Stone x2, Tasty Fish

Undead Iron Scorpion, Level 28

Undead Iron Scorpion, Level 28

Shade of Erick, Level 30

Shade of Seymour, Level 22

Shade Of Silver, Level 15 "Gnnnnnggggh..."

Johon [AKA Alf Gregory] (Bricksandparts) 25 years old male human Barbarian > Raider *Lucky!* *Hastened!*

Level: 25.33

Power: 36 (24+8+4)

Health: 35/40 (24+8+1+7+0)

Shield Power: (5+1)

Ether: ~/0

Positive effects: *Immune to:* (*Fragile*, *Cursed* *Stunned* ), *Natural Respite*

Negative effects: (none)

Gold: 2800 (1726(1), 0GB(50), 0CB(50), 0GO(80), 0CC(70), 0GC(100), 0M)

Equipment:

Weapon - Sword of Decay (WP:8) - (once the target is inflicted with damage they lose a quarter of the power of the strike each following turn for three turns. the effect cannot be compounded with more strikes. Suitable to Mages, Knights and Barbarians.)

Shield - None

Artefact 1 (L1-9) - Heavy Armour - SP:5, protects from fragile-effect, suitable for barbarians and knights

Artefact 2 (L10-19) - Bravado Boots - 1/6 chance of being Lucky at the beginning of every battle

Artefact 3 (L20-29) - Sticky Gloves - Increases the amount of gold stolen by 50% (rounded up), suitable for rogues and beast warriors.[

Artefact 4 (L30-39) -

Artefact 5 (L40-49) -

Artefact 6 (L50+) -

Extra Artefacts: Helmet (+1 max health), Blessed Amulet – Protects from cursed-effect. Dog Statuette - (suitable for anyone, SP: 1, once named (Rover), speaking the name summons a dog almost certainly to tag along on madcap adventures and make snippy comments.), Hide of The Bleeding - restores 10 HP and 5 ether for every enemy the wearer kills, suitable for anyone, Scarlet Hood - +4 to power, immunity to stunned

Extra Weapons: Greatsword (WP:3), Focal Staff (WP:5, Focus Fire-Roll a 3 for 5 ether Suitable for clerics and mages),Gladius (WP: 15, Darkness elemental, 1/3 chance of Fragile on succesful hits), Stalker’s Mallet (WP: 8, usable by Knights, Barbarians, and Harlots. Has a 1/2 chance to seal the enemy) Tools: Shovel (1), Pick-axe (2), Magnifying Glass (1), Magic Compass (1)

Consumables: Potion (2), Venom (2), Mead (4), Smelling Salts (11), Nostrum (11), Trial Brew (1), Grand Tonic, Emergency Essence, Ambrosia

Elements: Aquamarine (1), Emerald (1), Topaz (1)

Scrolls: Scroll of Sleep (1), Scroll of Blindness (1), Scroll of Sealing (1), Scroll of Confusion (1)

Quest items: Blue Rose

Karie Alderflask (Played by Kintobor) *Party Leader!*

22 year old Human Rogue Witch, lvl 16.5

Power: 21 (lvl 15 + WP: 6)

Health: 22/22

Ether: 19/22

Gold: 77

Defence: 2

Equipment: Sexy (WP: 7, Rapier, Disregards SP, usable by Knights and Rogues), Ethereal Cloak (SP +2, Max. Ether +4), Paper Doll (Accessory, Protects from the Hexed effect)

Inventory: Grand Tonic (2), Mead (2), Remedy (1), Venom (7), Nostrum (1), Mulled Wine (1), Smoke bomb (1), Pixie Dust (1), Grand Potion (2) Telescope (1), Bedroll (1)

Quest Items: Entry 11, Map of Brendenton (1), Spider Coin (worth 1 gp)

Aretefacts/Weapons:Heirloom Dagger (WP: 3), Scroll of Newtity (costs 10 ether)(usable by ex-Amphibians only), Lover's Locket (Accessory, Protects from enamoured effect), Trickster's Mask of the Elf (Accessory, changes user's appearance into an Elf) The Rat Queen's Cape (Backwear, all Vermin type are Enamored with the wearer for the first three rounds of combat, Suitable for Alchemists, Beast Warriors, Chi Monks, and Witches), Catsuit (Wearer has 1/3 chance to completely avoid rolls of COUNTER and DAMAGE and Free Hits; suitable to women only; bodywear)

Gemstones: Topaz

Edited August 26, 2013 by Endgame

[Kintobor]

Karie ponders as the villagers talk about their routines, rubbing her hand through her hair. She finally speaks up, a slightly concerned look on her face.

"Seymour, Silver, Erick, I'm glad to see you're both alright. Now then, this may be hard for you, but I need you to recollect what happened before you were hexed. How did the creatures confront you, where you were at the time, anything you can recollect will be of help. This will help us get rid of these guys so they don't bother you again."

[Endgame]

"Most of us were just goin' bout' our normal routine in the forest deeps. I had just got back from seeing my family in the North, and I was a bit behind on the logging business. I was gathering up wood in Timber Pass, when that blue-eyed demon just came outta the ground. One gaze and I was immobilized; after that, he kind of just... inhabited me, I guess. That area is probably the demon's territory now."

"Well, I was at the Deep's Pond. Nothin' like a bit o' fishing to clear an old man's head at night, huh? I was luring in a pretty good haul, too, when that green yeed beast came out from the water. Knocked me down, and just walked right into my head. You were around for the rest."

"I was going to talk to Margaret - she was gathering up ingredients in Chequer Grove - when those red and pink delinquents ambushed us. We tried to struggle, but the red one hijakce dmy mind before I could help Margaret. The Captain took her; I guess the knowledge of alchemy was more useful then knowledge of fishing, in this case.

Presumably those cycloptic freaks then used our bodies to knock out and evict Jack, Jill, and Geoffrey. We're really sorry about that, you three..."

"No need to apologize, Seymour." Geoffrey says quietly, eyes downcast.

[Kintobor]

"Hmm. I would assume that the things went back to the places you got knocked out after we kicked their megablocks. Where was Margaret during all this?"

She looks over the three men, clearly in pain.

"Is there anything I can do to help? I have basic healing abilities."

Edited August 26, 2013 by Kintobor

[Endgame]

"Me and Margaret were both in chequer grove when we got possessed. Same place, same time."

"A healing would be good, yeah..." Erick rasps. The other two patients nod in agreement.

[Kintobor]

"Here, let me see what I can do."

Karie walks over to Erick first, rolling up her sleeves and concentrating, allowing her hands to glow a dark purple as she moves about Erick's wounds, healing them. She then moves onto Silver, then Seymour, healing each of them with her ability.

"So, Erick, what brings you all the way down here?"

She thought getting his mind off the procedure would help ease the pain.

[Endgame]

QM Note: My brother is departing for college today, so I'll be seeing him off for most of this afternoon. I'll probably be back late afternoon or early night.

Erick lets out a sigh as Karie heals him, his burns fading away slowly as she moves her glowing purple hand over his wounds. Karie notices one grim thing in particular:

A black, spiral shaped scar on Erick's back, about the size of a fist.

Karie notices the scar on the other patients as well - the mark of those who were possessed by Oculoids. It was unlikely these scars would ever fade.

"Tryin' to pursue my trade, I guess. Despite the axe and muscles n' such, I'm not exactly the Northman everyone expects, a mighty hero and such. Nope, just want to be able to do my woodcraft. Built a few buildings in my town in the North, and decided I'd like to go someplace else to do my work - where the trees were plentiful and the people needed it. That, and Taurost kinda reminds me of my old hometown, minus the snow an' such. So, yeah, I'm the guy in charge of building the cabins and such. me and my village parted on good terms, though. We were never too much of a warrior tribe, although we do love our mead, heh. I actually go back and visit every two years. I just got back from my visit home about 3 days ago. There was some weird stuff going on up there... I was catching up on my logging agenda when that demon bastard ripped a hole in me back and took control."

Karie spends 3 ether healing the three villagers.

"Not bad..." Seymour says, his voice now less raspy.

"Thanks, miss!"

The Party:

Althior Emorith (And Finnegan)

Level 35 Necromancer *Earns triple XP*

Power: 47 (52 for spells)

Power Bonus: +5 Spells

Defense: 6 (4+2)

Health: 45/45 (5+5+Chicken Drumstick (1)+34)

Ether: 30/48 (5+5+34+4)

Gold: 100

Equipment: Scepter of Divine Affinity (WP:12, Has ⅙ chance to deal Cursed effect on attacks and ⅙ chance to deal Blessed effect on successful healing, Staff), Spellbound Gloves (+5 power when casting Spells, doubled if target is weak to Element, Handwear), Ethereal Cloak (SP:2, Max Ether +4, Backwear), Medal of Glory (Wearer earns triple experience, Accessory), Robe of the Elven Necromancer (SP: 4, Body Wear)

Inventory: Dragoro (WP:8, Wand), Skeleton Decoy, Potion x6, Tonic x10, Grand Potion x4, Grand Tonic, Ether Core x3, Bedroll, Remedy x8, Mead, Smelling Salts, Diamond (Light), Topaz (Lightning), Amethyst (Darkness), Ruby (Fire), Sapphire (Wind), Garnet (Earth), Opal (Ice), Aquamarine (Water), Emerald (Wood), Skull Shield (SP: 6, immune to darkness elemental damage), Bone x3, Elixirs x3, Phoenix Incense x2, Dragon Scales, Garnet Lamp of Summoning, Deadly Poison, Grating Stone x2, Tasty Fish

Undead Iron Scorpion, Level 28

Undead Iron Scorpion, Level 28

Shade of Erick, Level 30

Shade of Seymour, Level 22

Shade Of Silver, Level 15 "Gnnnnnggggh..."

Johon [AKA Alf Gregory] (Bricksandparts) 25 years old male human Barbarian > Raider *Lucky!* *Hastened!*

Level: 25.33

Power: 36 (24+8+4)

Health: 35/40 (24+8+1+7+0)

Shield Power: (5+1)

Ether: ~/0

Positive effects: *Immune to:* (*Fragile*, *Cursed* *Stunned* ), *Natural Respite*

Negative effects: (none)

Gold: 2800 (1726(1), 0GB(50), 0CB(50), 0GO(80), 0CC(70), 0GC(100), 0M)

Equipment:

Weapon - Sword of Decay (WP:8) - (once the target is inflicted with damage they lose a quarter of the power of the strike each following turn for three turns. the effect cannot be compounded with more strikes. Suitable to Mages, Knights and Barbarians.)

Shield - None

Artefact 1 (L1-9) - Heavy Armour - SP:5, protects from fragile-effect, suitable for barbarians and knights

Artefact 2 (L10-19) - Bravado Boots - 1/6 chance of being Lucky at the beginning of every battle

Artefact 3 (L20-29) - Sticky Gloves - Increases the amount of gold stolen by 50% (rounded up), suitable for rogues and beast warriors.[

Artefact 4 (L30-39) -

Artefact 5 (L40-49) -

Artefact 6 (L50+) -

Extra Artefacts: Helmet (+1 max health), Blessed Amulet – Protects from cursed-effect. Dog Statuette - (suitable for anyone, SP: 1, once named (Rover), speaking the name summons a dog almost certainly to tag along on madcap adventures and make snippy comments.), Hide of The Bleeding - restores 10 HP and 5 ether for every enemy the wearer kills, suitable for anyone, Scarlet Hood - +4 to power, immunity to stunned

Extra Weapons: Greatsword (WP:3), Focal Staff (WP:5, Focus Fire-Roll a 3 for 5 ether Suitable for clerics and mages),Gladius (WP: 15, Darkness elemental, 1/3 chance of Fragile on succesful hits), Stalker’s Mallet (WP: 8, usable by Knights, Barbarians, and Harlots. Has a 1/2 chance to seal the enemy) Tools: Shovel (1), Pick-axe (2), Magnifying Glass (1), Magic Compass (1)

Consumables: Potion (2), Venom (2), Mead (4), Smelling Salts (11), Nostrum (11), Trial Brew (1), Grand Tonic, Emergency Essence, Ambrosia

Elements: Aquamarine (1), Emerald (1), Topaz (1)

Scrolls: Scroll of Sleep (1), Scroll of Blindness (1), Scroll of Sealing (1), Scroll of Confusion (1)

Quest items: Blue Rose

Karie Alderflask (Played by Kintobor) *Party Leader!*

22 year old Human Rogue Witch, lvl 16.5

Power: 21 (lvl 15 + WP: 6)

Health: 22/22

Ether: 16/22

Gold: 77

Defence: 2

Equipment: Sexy (WP: 7, Rapier, Disregards SP, usable by Knights and Rogues), Ethereal Cloak (SP +2, Max. Ether +4), Paper Doll (Accessory, Protects from the Hexed effect)

Inventory: Grand Tonic (2), Mead (2), Remedy (1), Venom (7), Nostrum (1), Mulled Wine (1), Smoke bomb (1), Pixie Dust (1), Grand Potion (2) Telescope (1), Bedroll (1)

Quest Items: Entry 11, Map of Brendenton (1), Spider Coin (worth 1 gp)

Aretefacts/Weapons:Heirloom Dagger (WP: 3), Scroll of Newtity (costs 10 ether)(usable by ex-Amphibians only), Lover's Locket (Accessory, Protects from enamoured effect), Trickster's Mask of the Elf (Accessory, changes user's appearance into an Elf) The Rat Queen's Cape (Backwear, all Vermin type are Enamored with the wearer for the first three rounds of combat, Suitable for Alchemists, Beast Warriors, Chi Monks, and Witches), Catsuit (Wearer has 1/3 chance to completely avoid rolls of COUNTER and DAMAGE and Free Hits; suitable to women only; bodywear)

Gemstones: Topaz

Edited August 27, 2013 by Endgame

[Kintobor]

"Hmm. Can you give me a minute, I have something I have to do."

Karie steps out of the building and to a spot where no one can see. She then frantically takes her sweater off and checks her back, rubbing of white makeup.

[K-Nut]

"What kind of weird stuff, Erick? Was it anything like this?"

[Endgame]

"There's a small island in the north. It's surrounded by icebergs and not to mention stuck in one of the coldest parts of the world, almost always being bombarded by snow. Nobody even wants to set foot on the blasted place. Lately though, there is a castle just appearing on the island; you can see it on the horizon when you're sailin', so it isn't small. And it seems to grow larger with every passing day. From the distance we see it at, it looks just like a shadow... So, the rumors spead, and now everyone is calling that place the Shadow Citadel. People say the place is forsaken, but I'm not buyin' that. What is spooky is that someone is insane enough to build a huge castle there."

Karie uses a puddle as a makeshift mirror, heading to a remote portion of the cabin district and checking her back. The scars the men had were fleshy and raised, looking like something literally ripped out of their bodies... Karie had a similar spiral shaped mark on her back, but it wasn't scar tissue... It looked like ink. The marking bore more semblance to a tattoo than an actual scar, an ink mark instead of a wound - likely because the Oculoid Chief never made physical contact with the witch.

Edited August 27, 2013 by Endgame

[Endgame]

QM Note: For clarification: You may return to the Alchemist's Hut now, but you may continue to talk to people if you wish.

Edited August 28, 2013 by Endgame