Heroica RPG- Quest #94: Go Now, In Peace

[Kintobor]

"Firstly, can somebody give me a potion? And secondly, if this Necromancer want's someone's heart than he is most likely trying to enact some kind of horrible ritual." He said, spattering everyone before him with a light spray of blood.

Violet looks bewilderingly at Throlar.

"Wait, they're going to use my heart- what? If that's the case, then we've got to stop them!"

"We don't know if that's their intention yet, but it very well could be. If that's the case, all the more reason to hurry."

"There is shame in being afraid, priest, but that shame won't be one I bear. I have no questions, I say we go in and see what this is al about"

McCreary frowned grimly at Eric's comment, leaning against a tombstone.

"Is it bravery to stand in a fight, knowing you could very well perish, or is it foolishness? Is there a difference between the two? I faced many questions during my year long stay in the place you call your homeland, Eric, all of which shook me to my core. You may take me as a southern fool, Eric, but I've seen things that would make your blood roil. Images that still haunt me to this day."

Father McCreary looks mournfully off into the distance, as if looking for something.

Edited February 22, 2014 by Kintobor

[Kintobor]

If K-Nut doesn't post in the next little while, I'll move this along. Khorne, if he doesn't in that time, could you distribute the loot?

[K-Nut]

Althior: Tonic, Grand Tonic

Eric: 5 gold, Remedy, Neutralizer

Throlar: 5 gold, Potion, Hint Coin

Avalanche: 10 gold, Hint Coin

Althior eats his Tasty fish, rinses it down with a potion, and bluntly states "I'm ready,"

[Khorne]

"Is it bravery to stand in a fight, knowing you could very well perish, or is it foolishness? Is there a difference between the two? I faced many questions during my year long stay in the place you call your homeland, Eric, all of which shook me to my core. You may take me as a southern fool, Eric, but I've seen things that would make your blood roil. Images that still haunt me to this day."

Father McCreary looks mournfully off into the distance, as if looking for something.

Eric chuckled. "That question is not even worth posing. Of course it is bravery to stand in a fight, especially when you know you might perish. Songs would be sung in my name. This life is not the end, priest. I do not fear death. When I fall in battle, I know I will be taken in the warm caress of our Ice Mother. I shall feast and fight for eternity in the Halls of the gods. I know they are watching over me way or another. Can you say the same of your god?"

The Nord didn't even care to hear father McReary's response to his question, nor did he cared for any input his party members would give on the subject. His gaze was already focused on the entrance of the crypt. His icy eyes burned with a passionate fire. He was glad to be back in action.

[Kintobor]

Eric chuckled. "That question is not even worth posing. Of course it is bravery to stand in a fight, especially when you know you might perish. Songs would be sung in my name. This life is not the end, priest. I do not fear death. When I fall in battle, I know I will be taken in the warm caress of our Ice Mother. I shall feast and fight for eternity in the Halls of the gods. I know they are watching over me way or another. Can you say the same of your god?"

The Nord didn't even care to hear father McReary's response to his question, nor did he cared for any input his party members would give on the subject. His gaze was already focused on the entrance of the crypt. His icy eyes burned with a passionate fire. He was glad to be back in action.

McCreary straightens himself, knowing he was talking to a brick wall, but spoke anyways.

"I am well versed in the deities, Eric, and here in the south, your "Ice Queen", Helvetia, is the goddess of the undead and winter. You will be in her domain once you enter the crypt, not the Ice Mother you cling to so dearly. I cast down my god after returning from Värtland. I had seen things that did not make sense at the time considering Ennoc's teachings. And now I only answer to death's call. I see others to the place they believed in life they would go to after their time on this planet. My hope is that their is something after this life, so I can see the ones I loved so dearly in this one, but I try not to get my hopes up."

McCreary sheath's his sword and hobbles over to the party, using his sword as a makeshift cane.

"I do not know what horror's await you in there, but you must find and stop whatever's down there from continuing to foul this area. This will be a testament to your abilities heroes. You have my blessing."

McCreary turns on his foot and hobbles back to the church, clearly in pain. The party watches as he begins to disappear from view.

Father McCreary has left the party!

"Well, lets get going into the tomb..."

Violet nervously looks down into the dark innards as the party cautiously enter the tomb. Not even a few steps in and the party finds a set of stairs leading downward into the earth, a cool, stagnant air almost emits itself from the walls. The party moves down the stairs, leaving the outside world behind, and entering the cold, dank tomb. Dug into the walls sit carved out sections for coffins, each open and empty of the body each carried. It doesn't take long for the party to reach the bottom of the stairwell, and enter what appears to be a small antechamber. A few odds and ends layabout, most appear to be possessions of paladin's past. A row of stone coffins emit out of the ground on one end, and an entry way leading to a different section of the tomb lies on the other side, seeming getting pitch black farther down the hallway. An entry way into another room opens up at the end of the antechamber.

"It seems we some ground to cover. Hey, Althior, you said you were undead, right? You don't really look the part, though. What's up with that?"

The Party

Eric (Khorne)

30 year old Human Nord

Level 22 2/3 Raider *Natural Respite* *Immune to Fragile* *Evasion* *Counterstrike* *Encouraged and Hastened!*

Power: 44 (22+22)

Defense: 5

Health: 40/40 (8+21+7+4)

Gold: 44

Equipment: Godricsleif (WP: 22; Ice-, Lightning-, Darkness-elemental), Counterstrike Gloves (after the wearer is struck by a Free Hit, they counter with strength equal to their level), Boots of Evasion (Wearer takes half damage in front row), Heavy Armor (SP:5, protects from fragile-effect)

Inventory: Drengazuli Grom'az (WP:6; Twin Axe: Attacks two enemies in one turn); Crocodile Belt (Max. health +2, immunity to water; accessory); 2x Diseased Silverfish Wings (WP:8 + Cursed throwing dagger); 6x Silverfish Wings (WP:8 throwing dagger); Fire bomb; Lightning bomb; Venom; Grand Potion (12x); Remedy (3x); Mead (7x); Smelling Salts (5x); Nostrum (5x); Mulled Wine (3x); Garnet; Scroll of Sleep, Neutralizer

Throlar Wineghilim

134 year old male Dwarven Knight.

Level: 10

Power: 22

Health: 7/19

Gold: 412

Equipped: Mopagsaber (WP 12, ice elemental, longsword), Poncanis Shield (SP 5).

Inventory: Remedy, Mace and Chain (Mace, WP 3), Elven Sword (WP 5, longsword) Bedroll, Round Shield (SP 2), Smoke Bomb, Mulled Wine, Phoenix Essence, Potion, Hint Coin (Gives the user a hint about a puzzle or tricky situation. Usable only once. Has no monetary value.)

Avalanche, the Super Sleuth (Dragonfire)

29 years old male yeti Barbarian *Natural Respite* *Immune to Fragile* *Counterstriking*

Level 12.5

Power: 18 (12+6)

Health: 20/20 (12+7+1*)

SP: 5

Gold: 110

Equipment: Trollsbane (club, WP:7, earth-elemental), Heavy Armour (immune to fragile, SP:5), Counterstrike Gloves (after the wearer is struck by a Free Hit, they counter with strength equal to the damage taken)

Inventory: 5x Potion, Grand Potion, Mead, Remedy, 2x Smelling Salts, Nostrum, Mulled Wine, Smoke Bomb, 5x Venom, Phoenix Incense, Pumpkin Bomb (causes the stunned-, blinded-, poisoned by 1-, asleep-, sealed- and confused- effects to all opponents), Lightning Bomb, Dirt Bomb, 3x Holy Bombs, 8x Bone, Skeleton Decoy, Bumble Fanshirt (SP:1, vermin with less than half of the wearer's level are scared and won't directly attack the wearer, bodywear), Hint Coin (Gives the user a hint about a puzzle or tricky situation. Usable only once. Has no monetary value.)

(*One Chicken Drumstick eaten)

Althior Emorith (And Finnegan) *Party Leader*

Level 37 1/4 Necromancer *Earns triple XP*

Power: 49 (55 for spells)

Power Bonus: +5 Spells

Defense: 6 4+2

Health: 43/47 5+5+Chicken Drumstick (1)+32

Ether: 51/56 5+5+32+4+Ectoplasm (2)

Gold: 300

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:

Consumables: Skeleton Decoy, Potion x5, Tonic x11, Grand Potion, Grand Tonic x3, Ether Core x2, Remedy x9, Mead, Smelling Salts, Elixirs x3, Phoenix Incense x2, Garnet Lamp of Summoning, Emergency Essence, Grating Stone x2, Deadly Poison

Weapons: Dragoro (WP:8, Wand), Skull Shield (SP: 6, immune to darkness elemental damage), Oculoid Claw (WP: 13, Club, 1/6 chance of infecting the targeted enemy on successful hits.)

Tools: Bedroll, Bone x3

Artifacts: 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),

Gemstones: Diamond (Light), Topaz (Lightning), Amethyst (Darkness), Ruby (Fire), Sapphire (Wind), Garnet (Earth), Opal (Ice), Aquamarine (Water), Emerald (Wood)

"..."

Zombie Paladin Axeman A

Level 18 Undead

".."

Zombie Paladin Skirmisher A

Level 18 Undead

".."

Zombie Paladin Spearman A

Level 18 Undead

"..."

Zombie Paladin Swordsman A

Level 15 Undead

"..."

Zombie Paladin Swordsman B

Level 15 Undead

"If you guys got some potions to spare, I could use a heal."

Violet

Level 15 1/2 Gravedigger *Immune to Sudden Death*

HP: 3/25

SP: 2

Equipment: Wooden Shovel (WP: 4 damages undead), Torn White Dress (SP: 2, bodywear, suitable for engaged undead females), Rotting Flesh (provides immunity from sudden death)

QM Note: Lots of things to do! Just as a heads up, the entrance behind the party is the way back up, the entrance Atramor is looking down is the pitch black hallway, and the entrance to the larger room is out of frame on the image, but to Throlar's Left. If you guys want some music for the area, I thought

fit the area nicely. Get exploring! Edited February 23, 2014 by Kintobor

[Duvors]

"It seems we some ground to cover. Hey, Althior, you said you were undead, right? You don't really look the part, though. What's up with that?"

"What! Him? HOW?" said Throlar as he drank his potion.

Edited February 22, 2014 by Lord Duvors

[K-Nut]

"Hey, Althior, you said you were undead, right? You don't really look the part, though. What's up with that?"

"What! Him? HOW?"

Althior rolls his eyes at the dwarf's reaction. "Oh, I'm sorry, you're a dwarf? How could that be possible? We don't pick and choose what we want to be, and things happen. So pick your goddam jaw off the ground and lets get moving." He inches forward to Violet and lowers his voice so his "imbecile" companions won't drool over the entire story. "Well, it's a long story, and it's quite recent actually. It's from within a year ago, and there's too much mystery surrounding it to fully explain it. I don't know much about it myself. I feel exactly the same as when I went under, however." He turns back to the party, clenching his palms together as he develops a half grin on his face. "Now, I say we go down the hallway to start, unless anyone has any qualms with that,"

[Kintobor]

"What! Him? HOW?" said Throlar as he drank his potion.

Throlar gains ten health, looking mystified as he does so. Violet crosses her arms and mumbles to herself.

"People with their stupid stigmas..."

He inches forward to Violet and lowers his voice so his "imbecile" companions won't drool over the entire story. "Well, it's a long story, and it's quite recent actually. It's from within a year ago, and there's too much mystery surrounding it to fully explain it. I don't know much about it myself. I feel exactly the same as when I went under, however."

Violet looks puzzled as Althior finishes his explanation.

"Well if you think it'd take too long to go over, I'm alright with that. I was just curious, but... if you feel the same as you did before, how do you know if you're undead? I mean, I know for a fact, I'm supposed to be dead. I mean, look at my flesh, it's rotting. I got a gaping hole in my chest where my hearts been ripped out, and before that, I had no heart beat. In all honest, I have little recollection of my past life, who I was before I was buried. Part of me's sort of... disappointed in that."

She sits on the stone coffin and rests her shovel against it, melancholy spreading across her face.

"I don't know why I'm rambling on. It's just that I've honestly never met any undead from outside the cemetery, and I expected them to look more... dead."

Edited February 22, 2014 by Kintobor

[Duvors]

Throlar gains ten health, looking mystified as he does so. Violet crosses her arms and mumbles to herself.

"People with their stupid stigmas..."

"I can hear you," said Throlar no longer spitting blood "and it is not a stigma... I think, common isn't my first language, but anyway, I'm just surprised by an undead who looks like he's still alive, I thought the art of make... I mean raising them was yet another ridiculously ancient lost secret."

[K-Nut]

"Well if you think it'd take too long to go over, I'm alright with that. I was just curious, but... if you feel the same as you did before, how do you know if you're undead? I mean, I know for a fact, I'm supposed to be dead. I mean, look at my flesh, it's rotting. I got a gaping hole in my chest where my hearts been ripped out, and before that, I had no heart beat. In all honest, I have little recollection of my past life, who I was before I was buried. Part of me's sort of... disappointed in that."

She sits on the stone coffin and rests her shovel against it, melancholy spreading across her face.

"I don't know why I'm rambling on. It's just that I've honestly never met any undead from outside the cemetery, and I expected them to look more... dead."

"I saw the other side. It may have well been a hallucination, but I don't think it was. I believe that someone or something brought me back, but not in the conventional sense. And if you want an undead person who looks the part, there's one at Heroica without a face at all. He lectured me on and on about this resurrection crap and how what I was speaking of was complete poppycock. There's just something different about this whole resurrection thing. I feel it, but I can't describe it," He shakes himself out of this trance and turns around, "Now, onward we go! Oh, Eric, mind healing Violet with one of those Grand Potions of yours? You don't seem to have a scarcity of them at the moment,"

[Dragonfire]

"I agree, let's go down the hallway," says Avalanche, gripping his club tightly. He was also rather shocked that their party leader was not just a necromancer, but in fact an undead himself. However unlike Throlar he didn't show it. He's on our side, so I won't ask any questions.

[Khorne]

Eric uses a Grand Potion on Violet.

"Let's move on."

I took a Mead and Smelling Salts after the battle, so I should be Encouraged and Hastened

[Kintobor]

Eric uses a Grand Potion on Violet.

"Let's move on."

Eric tosses Violet a grand potion. She struggles to get the lid off, but after a few moments uncorks the bottle using her rotting teeth. She downs it quickly.

"I feel better, already! Thanks, Eric!"

The party begins to make their way down the corridor, but soon find themselves wandering in the dark. Clinging to the walls, unease rushes over the party as they feel an unnatural chill run down their spine. Althior tosses a bit of holy water about, but it doesn't seem to help. The party can feel something brush against them, at times poke them. Was it the other party members... or something else?

"Guys, maybe we should head back and find a light source? I'm really not liking the vibe in here."

The party reluctantly returns back to the antechamber, Violet looking on edge.

"Am I the only one that felt something... touch me in there?"

The Party

Eric (Khorne)

30 year old Human Nord

Level 22 2/3 Raider *Natural Respite* *Immune to Fragile* *Evasion* *Counterstrike* *Encouraged and Hastened!*

Power: 44 (22+22)

Defense: 5

Health: 40/40 (8+21+7+4)

Gold: 44

Equipment: Godricsleif (WP: 22; Ice-, Lightning-, Darkness-elemental), Counterstrike Gloves (after the wearer is struck by a Free Hit, they counter with strength equal to their level), Boots of Evasion (Wearer takes half damage in front row), Heavy Armor (SP:5, protects from fragile-effect)

Inventory: Drengazuli Grom'az (WP:6; Twin Axe: Attacks two enemies in one turn); Crocodile Belt (Max. health +2, immunity to water; accessory); 2x Diseased Silverfish Wings (WP:8 + Cursed throwing dagger); 6x Silverfish Wings (WP:8 throwing dagger); Fire bomb; Lightning bomb; Venom; Grand Potion (11x); Remedy (3x); Mead (7x); Smelling Salts (5x); Nostrum (5x); Mulled Wine (3x); Garnet; Scroll of Sleep, Neutralizer

Throlar Wineghilim

134 year old male Dwarven Knight.

Level: 10

Power: 22

Health: 7/19

Gold: 412

Equipped: Mopagsaber (WP 12, ice elemental, longsword), Poncanis Shield (SP 5).

Inventory: Remedy, Mace and Chain (Mace, WP 3), Elven Sword (WP 5, longsword) Bedroll, Round Shield (SP 2), Smoke Bomb, Mulled Wine, Phoenix Essence, Potion, Hint Coin (Gives the user a hint about a puzzle or tricky situation. Usable only once. Has no monetary value.)

Avalanche, the Super Sleuth (Dragonfire)

29 years old male yeti Barbarian *Natural Respite* *Immune to Fragile* *Counterstriking*

Level 12.5

Power: 18 (12+6)

Health: 20/20 (12+7+1*)

SP: 5

Gold: 110

Equipment: Trollsbane (club, WP:7, earth-elemental), Heavy Armour (immune to fragile, SP:5), Counterstrike Gloves (after the wearer is struck by a Free Hit, they counter with strength equal to the damage taken)

Inventory: 5x Potion, Grand Potion, Mead, Remedy, 2x Smelling Salts, Nostrum, Mulled Wine, Smoke Bomb, 5x Venom, Phoenix Incense, Pumpkin Bomb (causes the stunned-, blinded-, poisoned by 1-, asleep-, sealed- and confused- effects to all opponents), Lightning Bomb, Dirt Bomb, 3x Holy Bombs, 8x Bone, Skeleton Decoy, Bumble Fanshirt (SP:1, vermin with less than half of the wearer's level are scared and won't directly attack the wearer, bodywear), Hint Coin (Gives the user a hint about a puzzle or tricky situation. Usable only once. Has no monetary value.)

(*One Chicken Drumstick eaten)

Althior Emorith (And Finnegan) *Party Leader*

Level 37 1/4 Necromancer *Earns triple XP*

Power: 49 (55 for spells)

Power Bonus: +5 Spells

Defense: 6 4+2

Health: 43/47 5+5+Chicken Drumstick (1)+32

Ether: 51/56 5+5+32+4+Ectoplasm (2)

Gold: 300

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:

Consumables: Skeleton Decoy, Potion x5, Tonic x11, Grand Potion, Grand Tonic x3, Ether Core x2, Remedy x9, Mead, Smelling Salts, Elixirs x3, Phoenix Incense x2, Garnet Lamp of Summoning, Emergency Essence, Grating Stone x2, Deadly Poison

Weapons: Dragoro (WP:8, Wand), Skull Shield (SP: 6, immune to darkness elemental damage), Oculoid Claw (WP: 13, Club, 1/6 chance of infecting the targeted enemy on successful hits.)

Tools: Bedroll, Bone x3, Holy Water (Quest Item)

Artifacts: 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),

Gemstones: Diamond (Light), Topaz (Lightning), Amethyst (Darkness), Ruby (Fire), Sapphire (Wind), Garnet (Earth), Opal (Ice), Aquamarine (Water), Emerald (Wood)

"..."

Zombie Paladin Axeman A

Level 18 Undead

".."

Zombie Paladin Skirmisher A

Level 18 Undead

".."

Zombie Paladin Spearman A

Level 18 Undead

"..."

Zombie Paladin Swordsman A

Level 15 Undead

"..."

Zombie Paladin Swordsman B

Level 15 Undead

"This place is weirding me out..."

Violet

Level 15 1/2 Gravedigger *Immune to Sudden Death*

HP: 25/25

SP: 2

Equipment: Wooden Shovel (WP: 4 damages undead), Torn White Dress (SP: 2, bodywear, suitable for engaged undead females), Rotting Flesh (provides immunity from sudden death)

[Khorne]

Eric walked towards the grave and leafed through the book. Perhaps there'd be clues in there to aid the party in understanding what they're dealing with. While he was doing that, the raider casually adressed Althior: "Could you let one of your undead light a torch and carry it? Saves us the trouble of having to deal with that."

[K-Nut]

"I felt it too..." Althior takes the flame from the coffin to light a torch on the wall, which he then gives to Swordsman A. He continues to lead the party back down the hallway.

"I've got a bad feeling about this..."

[Kintobor]

Eric walked towards the grave and leafed through the book. Perhaps there'd be clues in there to aid the party in understanding what they're dealing with."

Eric picks up the ratty book, opening the title to a name: Petrov Foldi. It seemed the book was a journal. Eric skims the book, finding little of interest, until he comes to the last few entries.

Date: -6, -7, --%5

The notice finally arrived at the hall today! It seems me and four others are heading out to -------- come tomorrow. I know most of the name's on the list. Their's Emmanuelle Janus, such a beautiful woman, and such an excellent knight. And then there's Piro the Visionary, a rather accomplished Battle Mage. He's told me stories of his many exploits across the world. Then there's Amber Makepeace, one hell of an assassin. She keeps showing up in this incredibly tight fitting outfit, though. Sort of turns me on. Finally there's the witch, Fiora Plocket. Not what I'd call ten out of ten, or nine out of ten. Her outfit's an outlandish purple, and she looks weird even for a were-panther, with her hair dyed a crimson red. She weirds me out two, always talking in rhyme. People told me her parents were murdered in front of her by raiding marauders. She's got scars all along her body. I've heard stories as to how she got them, each of them more foolish than the last. Who cares, I'm getting my pay, and maybe I'll pick up something else if I'm lucky.

Date: -7, -7, --%5

We've all made it to the docks, and our ship to ---- has ----. Fiora has already ------- bickering with -----, and --------- whether or not ---- --------------- ------ -------------

The rest of the journal becomes unreadable, the words smudged as if left in water. Miraculously, the last entry seems to be intact.

date: 2-, -7, --%5

so cold so cold can't feel my toes windigos after us so many of them got split up not dying here not dying here not dying

The journal ends there. The last few entries are dated back four years ago.

"I felt it too..." Althior takes the flame from the coffin to light a torch on the wall, which he then gives to Swordsman A. He continues to lead the party back down the hallway.

"I've got a bad feeling about this..."

Althior takes the ornate incense burner off the coffin and takes it to the torch on the wall. Oddly enough, it seems to have been lit recently. He hands it to one of his zombie minions, and sends him in front of the party as they make their way into the darkness. The party still feels on edge, if even slightly: there was still a sense of dread in the air. Even with the light, it's still hard to see, as the darkness in the corridor seems murky, almost as it was like some kind of mist. The temperature continued to drop as the party comes to a halt. A set of stairs lay ahead the party. Descending it, Violet can be heard humming in the back.

"Hmm hm hmmm, not scared of this place at all, need to get my heart back, hmm hmm hmmmm."

[Dragonfire]

Avalanche looks firmly ahead of him at the torchlight and tries to hide his growing sense of dread. Could there be undead heroes of Heroica down here?

[Duvors]

"Not to disturb anyone, but am I the only person disturbed by the lit torch? You know, the one that appears to be made of solid gold?"

Being ignored (as usual) he stayed behind, examining the trophy, the torch on the ground, the bucket, the statuette, the lit torch on the tomb, and the large white spider.

[Kintobor]

"Not to disturb anyone, but am I the only person disturbed by the lit torch? You know, the one that appears to be made of solid gold?"

Being ignored (as usual) he stayed behind, examining the trophy, the torch on the ground, the bucket, the statuette, the lit torch on the tomb, and the large white spider.

Throlar, angry with his fellow quest mates, decides to stay behind, his curiosity overwhelming him. He watches the light disappear, as he's left alone in the antechamber...

OOC: Congrats mate, you've got yourself a little side quest.

The Party

Eric (Khorne)

30 year old Human Nord

Level 22 2/3 Raider *Natural Respite* *Immune to Fragile* *Evasion* *Counterstrike* *Encouraged and Hastened!*

Power: 44 (22+22)

Defense: 5

Health: 40/40 (8+21+7+4)

Gold: 44

Equipment: Godricsleif (WP: 22; Ice-, Lightning-, Darkness-elemental), Counterstrike Gloves (after the wearer is struck by a Free Hit, they counter with strength equal to their level), Boots of Evasion (Wearer takes half damage in front row), Heavy Armor (SP:5, protects from fragile-effect)

Inventory: Drengazuli Grom'az (WP:6; Twin Axe: Attacks two enemies in one turn); Crocodile Belt (Max. health +2, immunity to water; accessory); 2x Diseased Silverfish Wings (WP:8 + Cursed throwing dagger); 6x Silverfish Wings (WP:8 throwing dagger); Fire bomb; Lightning bomb; Venom; Grand Potion (11x); Remedy (3x); Mead (7x); Smelling Salts (5x); Nostrum (5x); Mulled Wine (3x); Garnet; Scroll of Sleep, Neutralizer

Avalanche, the Super Sleuth (Dragonfire)

29 years old male yeti Barbarian *Natural Respite* *Immune to Fragile* *Counterstriking*

Level 12.5

Power: 18 (12+6)

Health: 20/20 (12+7+1*)

SP: 5

Gold: 110

Equipment: Trollsbane (club, WP:7, earth-elemental), Heavy Armour (immune to fragile, SP:5), Counterstrike Gloves (after the wearer is struck by a Free Hit, they counter with strength equal to the damage taken)

Inventory: 5x Potion, Grand Potion, Mead, Remedy, 2x Smelling Salts, Nostrum, Mulled Wine, Smoke Bomb, 5x Venom, Phoenix Incense, Pumpkin Bomb (causes the stunned-, blinded-, poisoned by 1-, asleep-, sealed- and confused- effects to all opponents), Lightning Bomb, Dirt Bomb, 3x Holy Bombs, 8x Bone, Skeleton Decoy, Bumble Fanshirt (SP:1, vermin with less than half of the wearer's level are scared and won't directly attack the wearer, bodywear), Hint Coin (Gives the user a hint about a puzzle or tricky situation. Usable only once. Has no monetary value.)

(*One Chicken Drumstick eaten)

Althior Emorith (And Finnegan) *Party Leader*

Level 37 1/4 Necromancer *Earns triple XP*

Power: 49 (55 for spells)

Power Bonus: +5 Spells

Defense: 6 4+2

Health: 43/47 5+5+Chicken Drumstick (1)+32

Ether: 51/56 5+5+32+4+Ectoplasm (2)

Gold: 300

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:

Consumables: Skeleton Decoy, Potion x5, Tonic x11, Grand Potion, Grand Tonic x3, Ether Core x2, Remedy x9, Mead, Smelling Salts, Elixirs x3, Phoenix Incense x2, Garnet Lamp of Summoning, Emergency Essence, Grating Stone x2, Deadly Poison

Weapons: Dragoro (WP:8, Wand), Skull Shield (SP: 6, immune to darkness elemental damage), Oculoid Claw (WP: 13, Club, 1/6 chance of infecting the targeted enemy on successful hits.)

Tools: Bedroll, Bone x3, Holy Water (Quest Item)

Artifacts: 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),

Gemstones: Diamond (Light), Topaz (Lightning), Amethyst (Darkness), Ruby (Fire), Sapphire (Wind), Garnet (Earth), Opal (Ice), Aquamarine (Water), Emerald (Wood)

"..."

Zombie Paladin Axeman A

Level 18 Undead

".."

Zombie Paladin Skirmisher A

Level 18 Undead

".."

Zombie Paladin Spearman A

Level 18 Undead

"..."

Zombie Paladin Swordsman A

Level 15 Undead

"..."

Zombie Paladin Swordsman B

Level 15 Undead

"Not spooked by this place at all, dum de dum!"

Violet

Level 15 1/2 Gravedigger *Immune to Sudden Death*

HP: 25/25

SP: 2

Equipment: Wooden Shovel (WP: 4 damages undead), Torn White Dress (SP: 2, bodywear, suitable for engaged undead females), Rotting Flesh (provides immunity from sudden death)

The party makes it to the bottom of the staircase, only to find a room with more coffins, both lining the inside of the walls and along the floor, all in perfect row. The candles glowed a cold blue, creating a dim light in the room, contrasting to the party's warm orangey hues emitting from their torch. However, it seemed the party was missing something, or rather, someone.

"Hey, anyone see the dwarf?"

Throlar had seemingly disappeared, and it couldn't have been at a worse timing. A voice bellowed through the room.

"Halt where you are!"

Three figures emerged from room, though the party could've sworn they weren't there a second ago. Faceless, skeletal beings contorted themselves out from the shadows to join them, made from a dense substance. The apparent ringleader lifts up his helmets visor with his skinny fingers, revealing a pale, snow white face with bloodshot eyes. He grinds his teeth, showing off his fangs. His two skeletal minions simply chuckle.

"I do believe that's var enough, da? Don't want to get too close, my men and I do bite."

[Khorne]

"Hey, anyone see the dwarf?"

Throlar had seemingly disappeared, and it couldn't have been at a worse timing. A voice bellowed through the room.

Eric looked around when Violet mentioned Throlar had gone missing. "Coward...", he angrily muttered under his breath and didn't waste any further thought on the matter.

When the three figures emerged from the shadows, Eric's eyes subtlely widened. A Vampire in Eubric. He was now more certain than ever that this endeavour was a test by Helvetia, the Ice Queen. Surely the gods wanted to see wether Eric's allegiance still lay with his home and his people or if he had entirely renounced his past life.

"What brings you to this crypt, master Vampire?" Eric inquired in the most diplomative way he could muster.

[Dragonfire]

Upon seeing the vampires emerge from the shadows, Avalanche lifts Trollsbane off his shoulders and swings it around his head, teeth bared and ready for the inevitable fight.

[K-Nut]

Althior grabs his scepter, slowly, and leaves it in clear sight of the skeletons. He turns back to the Raider. "I don't believe these people will abide to any form of diplomacy, Eric," He steps forward. "Now, what would you people be doing defending this crypt here?" He raises his scepter, but has trouble deciding who to point it at ad he goes from soldier to soldier. "Never mind, doesn't really matter does it? Just stay out of our way if you know what's best,"

[Kintobor]

Eric looked around when Violet mentioned Throlar had gone missing. "Coward...", he angrily muttered under his breath and didn't waste any further thought on the matter.

When the three figures emerged from the shadows, Eric's eyes subtlely widened. A Vampire in Eubric. He was now more certain than ever that this endeavour was a test by Helvetia, the Ice Queen. Surely the gods wanted to see wether Eric's allegiance still lay with his home and his people or if he had entirely renounced his past life.

"What brings you to this crypt, master Vampire?" Eric inquired in the most diplomative way he could muster.

The vampire grins, chuckling to himself. He crosses his arms, his armour clanging.

"I am what you would call a "mercenary", but "mercenary who agrees with cause" is a bit better. I am here to guard the inner most part of the tomb to ensure my employer is not disturbed while she and her fellow Helvetian's perform a ritual. I care not for what kind of ritual, so long as I, Lord von Zarovitch are paid along with my men."

Upon seeing the vampires emerge from the shadows, Avalanche lifts Trollsbane off his shoulders and swings it around his head, teeth bared and ready for the inevitable fight.

"So eager for blood shed, are we? It's been a long time since I drank yeti's blood. Very strong, very thick. An acquired taste."

Althior grabs his scepter, slowly, and leaves it in clear sight of the skeletons. He turns back to the Raider. "I don't believe these people will abide to any form of diplomacy, Eric," He steps forward. "Now, what would you people be doing defending this crypt here?" He raises his scepter, but has trouble deciding who to point it at ad he goes from soldier to soldier. "Never mind, doesn't really matter does it? Just stay out of our way if you know what's best,"

von Zarovitch sneers.

"Put the sceptre down before you poke your eye out, mage. This crypt? As in this specific coffin? No reason. There is no one of real importance buried here... perhaps. Our employer simply suggested to us to move ourselves down into this part of the tomb to buy her time should we fail. It's still quite a walk from here to the inner sanctum.

Ah, but it sucks to be you, no? For you see, my men and I have what you need to continue forward. This is a dead end, after all. You'll need to go through me and men if you wish to enter the inner sanctum, and have even the slightest chance of stopping my employer. Now, I am a man of my word, and a man of honour. We both know how this is going to end. Prepare yourselves as you see fit. I have all the time in the world."

[Dragonfire]

"Well, no yeti's blood for you today, my friend- no, the only blood you'll be seeing is your own!" Avalanche snarled, uncorking a Smelling Salts and a Mead and gulping them down.

[Khorne]

Eric kept his silence as the Vampire talked. The appearance of these dark figures posed a significant conundrum for the Nord. Torn inside, Eric could not make up his mind. He had no qualms with the Vampire, in fact he was in awe of the creature. A child of Helvetia, blessed with immortality and fighting prowess above any skill of a common Human. An unending life in which the creature could hone its skills and feast in the night when not fighting. The master hunter, stalking its prey and killing without remorse. The ultimate warrior, a child of night and cold.

It had been a while since the Nord last crossed paths with a Vampire. Still, these dark mystical creatures managed to awe him. Eric's last encounter with a Vampire left dire consequences, though, and the Nord would be careful to tread lightly in this situation. He was no longer in the North, but the gods are omniscient and even here the murder of one of their warriors and guardians would undoubtedly invoke their wrath.