[SP-F21] <<Nature's Treasure>> Resolved Unto Death

[Freyd 0]

The amassed forces of the Sundered Spire had spilled forth on floor 22 and been repelled.  Their defeat only exposed the depths of their resources and resolve.  They were far from gone.  Returning to the dark caverns of floor 21, Freyd had set himself to the task of finding and disrupting their chain of command.  Something or someone was at the heart of this conspiracy and needed to be rooted out.  Cardinal was the prime and most obvious suspect, but there could be other equally nefarious possibilities.  He had to know, and to stop them.

Winding his way through clusters of green and purple phosphorescent moss, Freyd retraced the supply lines of the enemy's shattered vanguard.  More of their forces were swarming throughout this floor and would likely follow up with a fresh assault, unless they could be disrupted.  While some players excelled at this sort of thing, many were better suited to straight up hero-fights.  This mission required the sneakier-type to get behind enemy lines and cause a little mayhem.  

Watching a column of heavily armored dark elves with bloodstained weapons march by his latest hideout provided an effective reminder of the price of failure.  Perhaps the blood was nothing more than a bit of excessive decor from an overzealous game designer.  Regardless, it made its point.

Freyd consumes:

Yue’s Grace (4/5)
Titan’s Strength (DMG 3) [160241]
Cinnamon Rounded Stick (Prosperity 3) [148922-1]
Lemon Berry Palmiers (LD 3) [157814] (filling +1)
Lavender Lemon Bar (EVA 2) [158145-1]
Well-Done Steak (Protein 2) [158158-1] 
Artisan Carrot Cake (ACC 2) [146796]
Immolation +1 (Thorns 20) (1/5 used)
http://www.sao-rpg.com/topic/19650-f22-the-black-odyssey-r1r5maxmerchants/?do=findComment&comment=620557
Water Canister (1/9 used) 
http://www.sao-rpg.com/topic/19650-f22-the-black-odyssey-r1r5maxmerchants/?do=findComment&comment=620557
 

Spoiler

Name: Freyd, The Whisper in Shadows
Level: 46
HP: 940/940
EN: 92/92

Stats:
Damage: 22
Mitigation: 0
Evasion: 5
Accuracy: 4
HLY:2
BLD:12
LD 8
Prosperity 3

Equipped Gear:
Weapon: Forgiven Disobedience (T1-2HSS, ACC 1, HOLY 1, BLD 1)
Armor: Skin of Fallen Shadows (T2-LA, EVA 3)
Misc: Five Leaf Clover Necklace (T2 Rare Trinket – LD 1, Paralytic Immunity]

Skills:
2H Straight Sword [Rank 5]
Light Armor [Rank 4]
Searching [Rank 3]

Extra Skills:
Disguise
Familiar Mastery: Fighter 3
Survival

Mods:
Precision
Finesse - Rank 3
LA Athletics
Ferocity

Battle Ready Inventory:
Starter Healing Potion (50 hp)*3
Teleport Crystals*2
Turkish March *2
Eine Kleine Nachtmusik*5
Super-Duper Snake Sauce*2

Housing Buffs:
Rested: -1 energy cost for the first two expenditures of each combat
Clean: The first time you would suffer DoT damage in a thread, reduce damage taken from DoT each turn by 20% (rounded down)
Hard Working: +2 EXP per crafting attempt and +1 crafting attempt per day
Filling: Increase the effectiveness of a single food item consumed in a thread by +1 T1 slot.
Item Stash: +1 Battle Ready Inventory Slot
Relaxed: Increases out of combat HP regen by (5 * Tier HP) and decreases full energy regen to 2 Out of Combat Posts.
Col Stash: +5% bonus col from monster kills and treasure chests
Multipurpose: Gain +1 to LD, Stealth Rating, Stealth Detection, or Prosperity to one post in a thread. Can be applied after a roll

Guild Hall Buffs:
Lucrative: Reduce LD needed for Salvage by 5 (10+ for Alchemist crystals, 6+ for everything else). +2 EXP per craft. Rank 9 crafters receive +1 crafting attempt per day. Rank 10 crafters receive +2 crafting attempts per day.
Col Deposit: +5% bonus col from last-hit monster kills and +10% bonus col from treasure chests.

Scents of the Wild: n/a

Wedding Ring: n/a

 

Edited August 16, 2020 by Freyd - The Whisper in Shadows

[Freyd 0]

He'd been tailing one of the local patrols for hours.  Their true purpose was the collection and distribution of communiques, presumably from some source of authority.  Their dispatches were kept in the same inter-dimensional storage space as players used - or Elsewhere, as Freyd like to call it - until summoned to give to their contacts.  He'd already watched two exchanges to ensure that the pattern held true.  Two bodyguards accompanied the messenger at all times, and didn't look like the usual brand of slouches.  

There were just approaching another checkpoint.  Two wiry, white-haired dark elves stood at attention outside of the command tent.  A quick flash of credentials and exchange of code phrases was enough for the messenger to enter.  That left four outside for him.  All the better to play with.  Their command post was located beneath the cap of one of the gigantic mushrooms that grew on this floor.  Freyd recalled his last visit to this floor and fighting atop one of them.  Making his way around and climbing up its slippery sides, he positioned himself and took a deep breath.  Sliding down the near face, he landed in the midst of all four guards, slicing and slashing as they were completely caught off guard.

Spoiler

Freyd, The Whisper in Shadows | HP:940/940 | EN:80/92 | DMG:22 | MIT:0 | EVA:5 | ACC:4 | HLY:2 | BLD:12 | Thorns 20 | LD 8 | Prosperity 3

Tempest (x8 AoE Stun): 16 EN – (Rested, Finesse 3) = 12 EN

BD: 7 + 4 = 11 (hit).  Freyd deals 176 damage to Dark Elf #1.  Stunned.
BD: 8 + 4 = 12 (hit).  Freyd deals 176 damage to Dark Elf #2.  Stunned.
BD: 8 + 4 = 13 (hit).  Freyd deals 176 damage to Dark Elf #3.  Stunned.
BD: 2 + 4 = 6 (hit).  Freyd deals 176 damage to Dark Elf #4.  Stunned.

Dark Elf #1 | HP: 284/460 | DMG: 138 (460 – 176)
Dark Elf #2 | HP: 284/460 | DMG: 138 (460 – 176)
Dark Elf #3 | HP: 284/460 | DMG: 138 (460 – 176)
Dark Elf #4 | HP: 284/460 | DMG: 138 (460 – 176)

 

Edited August 16, 2020 by Freyd - The Whisper in Shadows

[Freyd 0]

Pushing his initiative as far as he could, Freyd whirled his white blade in wide circles, battering the beleaguered dark elves and keeping them too off balance to offer any significant resistance.  One recovered more quickly than the rest and managed to drive his rapier deep into Freyd's should blade, receive a swift and vicious counter across his torso for his trouble.  

"Intruder!"   Freyd's attacks had failed to keep them occupied enough to prevent one of the guards from raising an alarm.  He wasn't overly surprised.  One person keeping up that much pressure on four was a tall order.  He just needed to finish them off before reinforcement arrived from inside that tent.  That gave him an idea.  Leaping and cutting along the exposed edge of the mushroom cap above, he sliced off a thick portion of it which landed to block the opening.  They'd cut through the tent instead, but it might give him a few precious seconds to finish off this group first.

Spoiler

Freyd, The Whisper in Shadows | HP:800/940 (-140)| EN:80/92 | DMG:22 | MIT:0 | EVA:5 | ACC:4 | HLY:2 | BLD:12 | Thorns 20 | LD 8 | Prosperity 3

Calamity Disaster (x12 AoE): 13 EN (Rested, Finesse 3, +1 for turn) 

BD: 8 + 4 = 11 (hit).  Freyd deals 264 damage to Dark Elf #1.  
BD: 8 + 4 = 12 (hit).  Freyd deals 264 damage to Dark Elf #2. 
BD: 2 + 4 = 6 (hit).  Freyd deals 264 damage to Dark Elf #3.
BD: 1 (miss).  Freyd misses Dark Elf #4. 

MD: 10 (Crit +2). Dark Elf #1 deals 140 dmg to Freyd.  Suffers 20 thorns damage and dies.
MD: 7-5 = 2 (miss).  Dark Elf #2 misses Freyd.
MD: 6-5 = 1 (miss).  Dark Elf #3 misses Freyd.
MD: 7-5 = 2 (miss).  Dark Elf #4 misses Freyd.

Dark Elf #1 | HP: 0/460 | DMG: 138 (284 - 264 - 20)
Dark Elf #2 | HP: 20/460 | DMG: 138 (284 - 264)
Dark Elf #3 | HP: 20/460 | DMG: 138 (284 - 264)
Dark Elf #4 | HP: 284/460 | DMG: 138 

 

Edited August 16, 2020 by Freyd - The Whisper in Shadows

[Freyd 0]

Two of the dark elves were too close to the tent for their own good.  Probably the original pair of guards, they were crushed by the monstrous hunks of mushroom that slammed down precisely where they were standing.  The glitter and chime of dissolving digital foes rang out a moment later.  One of the two messenger escorts foolishly came in close and received a bash to the face from Forgiven Disobedience's solid cross guard for his trouble.  He staggered, catching face and dropping his sword, tripping and landing flat on his back where a quick follow up stab from Freyd finished him off.

Cries of consternation could be heard from the far side of the mushroom chunk.  The elves inside were stymied in their efforts to join the fray, but only for a few moments.  The last of the guards grinned widely, emboldened by the impending arrival of his allies.  

"Oh, you're in trouble now, FOOL!  No one messes with the Sundered Spire and lives." 

Spoiler

Freyd, The Whisper in Shadows | HP:800/940 (-140)| EN:66/92 | DMG:22 | MIT:0 | EVA:5 | ACC:4 | HLY:2 | BLD:12 | Thorns 20 | LD 8 | Prosperity 3

Calamity Disaster (x12 AoE): 14 EN (Rested, Finesse 3, +1 for turn) 

BD: 8 + 4 = 12 (hit).  Freyd deals 264 damage to Dark Elf #2.  Killed.
BD: 8 + 4 = 12 (hit).  Freyd deals 264 damage to Dark Elf #3. Killed.
BD: 4 + 4 = 8 (hit).  Freyd deals 264 damage to Dark Elf #4.

MD: 3-5 = -2 (miss).  Dark Elf #4 misses Freyd.

Dark Elf #1 | HP: 0/460 | DMG: 138 
Dark Elf #2 | HP: 0/460 | DMG: 138 (20 - 264)
Dark Elf #3 | HP: 0/460 | DMG: 138 (20 - 264)
Dark Elf #4 | HP: 20/460 | DMG: 138  (284-264)

 

Edited August 16, 2020 by Freyd - The Whisper in Shadows

[Freyd 0]

A white-haired head was sent sailing through the gloomy cavern air a moment later.  

"I can't say that it's been entirely easy, but I've managed well enough so far."  Wasting no time, Freyd concealed himself within a tangle of fungal growths on the near side of the path the messenger had traveled on his way here.  The smell was rather pungent, but also guaranteed to help conceal his presence.  He'd just need to remember to wash it off later, to prevent it from giving him away.

The messenger, local outpost commander and two additional guards jumped down from over the fallen mushroom fragment only seconds later.  Already alerted, their weapons were bared as they searched for signs of battle.  Freyd's footprints blended in well with those of the elves who frequently traveled along these paths.

"Our guards are gone, Commander Greel.  I suggest that we regroup with the nearest main force as quickly as possible.  Users will hesitate to attack a larger force."

"Agreed, Caerphon."  He looked at the scrunched up roll of parchment in his hand and clenched it tighter still as his eyes burned with hatred.

Spoiler

Freyd, The Whisper in Shadows | HP:800/940 (-140)| EN:66/92 | DMG:22 | MIT:0 | EVA:5 | ACC:4 | HLY:2 | BLD:12 | Thorns 20 | LD 8 | Prosperity 3

Straight (x2): 1 EN (Rested, Finesse 3, +1 for turn) 

BD: 5 + 4 = 9 (hit).  Freyd deals 44 damage to Dark Elf #4.

Dark Elf #1 | HP: 0/460 | DMG: 138 
Dark Elf #2 | HP: 0/460 | DMG: 138 
Dark Elf #3 | HP: 0/460 | DMG: 138 
Dark Elf #4 | HP: 0/460 | DMG: 138  (20-44)

Loot:

19228*Col
10*T3 Materials
T3 Rare Consumable #165367a
T3 Rare Armor/Shield165367b
T3 Rare Weapon #165368a
T3 Uncommon Consumable #165368b
T3 Rare Weapon #165369a
T3 Uncommon Consumable #165369b
T3 Rare Trinket #165370a
 

 

Edited August 16, 2020 by Freyd - The Whisper in Shadows

[Freyd 0]

"Thanks gang,  that was the queue I needed."  Freyd charged from his hiding place, kicking up a spray of moldy fungus and catching the two nearby guardsmen off balance.  Both suffered nasty gashes as they faltered in their defenses trying to block slime from landing all over them.  The messenger and commander were less easily duped and quickly rolled out of his reach.

"Take him down," yelled the captain.  "I want him alive, if possible."  He and the messenger moved to flank and encircle Freyd while the guards slowly recovered.  Their feints were easily parried or dodged, but his position was unenviable.  

"Finally learned not to leave your plans out in the open, did you?  It's far less convenient, but makes little difference to me."

"So you're the one who warned the players up on floor 22?  Good.  I'm going to enjoy gutting you when we're done."

"No, you're really not," Freyd replied, perfectly willing and able to trade barbs and taunts while the scene played out, both sides looking for openings.

Spoiler

Freyd, The Whisper in Shadows | HP:800/940 | EN:58/92 | DMG:22 | MIT:0 | EVA:5 | ACC:4 | HLY:2 | BLD:12 | Thorns 20 | LD 8 | Prosperity 3

Tempest (x8 AoE Stun): 12 EN – (Rested, Finesse 3) = 8 EN

BD: 1 (miss).  Freyd misses Dark Elf #5.
BD: 6 + 4 = 7 (hit).  Freyd deals 176 damage to Dark Elf #6.  Stunned.
BD: 1 (miss).  Freyd misses Dark Elf #5.
BD: 3 + 4 = 7 (hit).  Freyd deals 176 damage to Dark Elf #8.  Stunned.

MD: 4-5 = -1 (miss).  Dark Elf #5 misses Freyd.
MD: 6-5 = 1 (miss).  Dark Elf #7 misses Freyd.

Dark Elf #5 | HP: 460/460 | DMG: 138 
Dark Elf #6 | HP: 284/460 | DMG: 138 (460 – 176)
Dark Elf #7 | HP: 460/460 | DMG: 138 
Dark Elf #8 | HP: 284/460 | DMG: 138 (460 – 176)

 

Edited August 16, 2020 by Freyd - The Whisper in Shadows

[Freyd 0]

All four of them struck at once.   Twisting flat in an impossible display of acrobatic prowess, Freyd lanced one of the guard through the crotch, ending him amidst an ear-splitting howl of unimaginable agony. Pivoting and pushing off from a single hand, he slid himself between two of this remaining opponents, one of them stabbing him in the arm for his trouble.  

His new armor was great for dodging, but when his opponents inevitably did find purchase, the pain was a good deal more pronounced that that to which he had become accustomed.  Freyd was already considering switching back to his other gear, provided he survived.  These dark elves were competent warriors.  With the numbers they had at their disposal, he feared what might happen if their assaults spread to other floors where players might be less capable or prepared.  His best chance towards ending them lay in the commander's hand.

Spoiler

Freyd, The Whisper in Shadows | HP:660/940 | EN:45/92 | DMG:22 | MIT:0 | EVA:5 | ACC:4 | HLY:2 | BLD:12 | Thorns 20 | LD 8 | Prosperity 3

Calamity Disaster (x12 AoE): 18 EN – (Rested, Finesse 3, turn recovery) = 13 EN

BD: 1 (miss).  Freyd misses Dark Elf #5.
BD: 5 + 4 = 9 (hit).  Freyd deals 264 damage to Dark Elf #6.  
BD: 4 + 4 = 8 (hit).  Freyd deals 264 damage to Dark Elf #7.  
BD: 9 + 4 = 13 (crit +1).  Freyd deals (300 + 12 bleed) damage to Dark Elf #8.  Killed.

MD: 6-5 = 1 (miss).  Dark Elf #5 misses Freyd.
MD: 10 (crit +2).  Dark Elf #6 deals 140 damage to Freyd.
MD: 6-5 = 1 (miss).  Dark Elf #7 misses Freyd.

Dark Elf #5 | HP: 460/460 | DMG: 138 
Dark Elf #6 | HP: 20/460 | DMG: 138 (460 – 176)
Dark Elf #7 | HP: 20/460 | DMG: 138 (460 – 176) 
Dark Elf #8 | HP: 0/460 | DMG: 138 (284-312)

 

Edited August 16, 2020 by Freyd - The Whisper in Shadows

[Freyd 0]

"Enough play," Freyd said, regaining his footing.  One mighty swing of Forgiven Disobedience cut down the remaining guard.  The blade shone with blazing white light as the chorus of angel song built to a climax, culminating in the explosive defeat of the dark elf messenger he had originally trailed to this location.  The outpost commander seize his opportunity to stab him in the back.  Freyd hissed through clenched teeth, fighting through the pain as he whirled and re-established his guard and stance.  His cowl had fallen back in the melee, revealing his features to his enemy.

"There's a lot more where that came from."  Despite being short three companions, the elf faced him with a zealot's devotion.  "You have no idea of the kind of hell we will unleash upon you."

"Does in involve yogurt?  That stuff wants to give me indigestion.  That's it, isn't it?  You guys have spent all of this time working on some sort of yogurt elemental."

Spoiler

Freyd, The Whisper in Shadows | HP:520/940 | EN:31/92 | DMG:22 | MIT:0 | EVA:5 | ACC:4 | HLY:2 | BLD:12 | Thorns 20 | LD 8 | Prosperity 3

Calamity Disaster (x12 AoE): 18 EN – (Rested, Finesse 3, turn recovery) = 14 EN

BD: 2 + 4 = 6 (hit).  Freyd deals 264 damage to Dark Elf #5.  
BD: 10 (crit +2).  Freyd deals (312 + 12 bleed) damage to Dark Elf #6.  Killed.
BD: 3 + 4 = 7 (hit).  Freyd deals 264 damage to Dark Elf #7.  Killed.

MD: 10 (crit +2).  Dark Elf #5 deals 140 damage to Freyd.

Dark Elf #5 | HP: 194/460 | DMG: 138  (460-264)
Dark Elf #6 | HP: 0/460 | DMG: 138 (20 - 324)
Dark Elf #7 | HP: 0/460 | DMG: 138 (20 - 264)
Dark Elf #8 | HP: 0/460 | DMG: 138 

 

Edited August 17, 2020 by Freyd - The Whisper in Shadows

[Freyd 0]

"What the hell are you talking about?!  No, it's not yogurt!"

"Shame.  That would have been more clever."  Freyd shoved his sword through the elf's gut with a frozen look of stunned confusion still on his face, snatching the precious missive from his hands before he even hit the ground.

It was encoded, naturally, but Freyd had a was with ciphers.  In time, he could crack it.  For the moment, he needed some distance from this place and the opportunity to rest.  The enemy had left its marks on him as well.  There was a blind nearby, which he had created himself in order to observe the dark elves' movements.  It would do, for now.  As the messenger's corpse dissolved, it left behind another token like the others he had found.  This one was made of pearlescent alabaster with a ruby tower motif inlaid and a sword of jet plunged through it: the Sundered Spire.

Spoiler

Freyd, The Whisper in Shadows | HP:520/940 | EN:23/92 | DMG:22 | MIT:0 | EVA:5 | ACC:4 | HLY:2 | BLD:12 | Thorns 20 | LD 8 | Prosperity 3

Calamitous Tragedy (x12): 12 EN – (Rested, Finesse 3, turn recovery) = 8 EN

BD: 3 + 4 = 7 (hit).  Freyd deals 264 damage to Dark Elf #5.  killed.

Dark Elf #5 | HP: 0/460 | DMG: 138  (194-264)
Dark Elf #6 | HP: 0/460 | DMG: 138 
Dark Elf #7 | HP: 0/460 | DMG: 138 
Dark Elf #8 | HP: 0/460 | DMG: 138 

Loot:

23782*Col
10*T3 Materials
(21) Intermediate Dungeon Map #
T3 Rare Armor/Shield #165412a
T3 Perfect Weapon #165413a
T3 Perfect Weapon #165413b
T3 Perfect Weapon #165413c
T3 Rare Consumable #165414a
T3 Rare Armor/Shield165414b
 

 

Edited August 17, 2020 by Freyd - The Whisper in Shadows

[Freyd 0]

Taking a roundabout route back to the blind and doing his best to cover his tracks, Freyd eventually settled in for the night.  Retrieving the dark elf missive, and using the ambient light provided by the phosphorescent moss, he reviewed the characters and inlaid graphics, searching for clues to their meaning.  Freyd spent most of the night staring at those codes, engaged in a mental series of trial and error attempts to make sense of the infinite potential meanings.  Having gotten nowhere, he summoned the latest token from his prey and stared at it for clues.  Exhausted, and finding nothing of any value save the same symbol that appeared on every other version he'd ever found, he let his hand drop right onto the open missive.  

The instant that the stone made contact with the paper, its contents rearranged themselves into images and words he could understand.  He stared at the token, dumbfounded, and more than a little frustrated with himself for having overthought the problem.

"They're not tokens.  They're keys."  Resting his back and head against the packed earth behind him, he promptly passed out.

Freyd rests and recovers 40 hp (20 +10 from Relaxed + 10 water canister = 40/post))  

Edited August 17, 2020 by Freyd - The Whisper in Shadows

[Freyd 0]

After getting several hours of much-needed sleep, Freyd returned to his investigations with renewed vigor and determination.  The missive included a list of critical orders, including deployments, strike targets and required resources.  It did not reveal who was in command or where they might be located, but it identified key points in their infrastructure, meaning more opportunities to find answers.  

If even a few of these locations included senior officers, it could lead to a literal treasure trove of information, but they would likely be more heavily guarded.  The Spire's forces knew the system limitations as well as players, and would play them to their advantage.  His current role had to remain strict recon and rapid solo strikes, and he'd already chosen his next target.  The data in these reports was already hours old and would grow stale within a matter of days.  Freyd chose to press his advantage while he held it.

Freyd rests and recovers 40 hp (20 +10 from Relaxed + 10 water canister = 40/post) Energy fully recovered (Relaxed)

Edited August 17, 2020 by Freyd - The Whisper in Shadows

[Freyd 0]

If you want to find answers, follow the breadcrumbs - literally, in this case.  It was either a remarkable level of attention to detail, or else whatever made the agents of the Sundered Spire unique also made them vulnerable to some of the drawbacks associated with players.  They needed supplies.  He couldn't really tell whether they actually consumed them for sustenance or not, but intended to try and find out.  It might simply be some code-enforced rule that compelled them to do so.  For the moment, it presented a target, which was more than enough.

This particular depot was farther from their main defenses, which would hopefully slow any response times.  The guards received no warning as he breached their compound as a whirlwind of bladed death, carving a path through their sentinels and sentries.  Their outer defenses faltering, Freyd sought to finish off the first wave of guards before more arrived.

Spoiler

Freyd, The Whisper in Shadows | HP:600/940 | EN:78/92 | DMG:22 | MIT:0 | EVA:5 | ACC:4 | HLY:2 | BLD:12 | Thorns 20 | LD 8 | Prosperity 3

Calamity Disaster (x12 AoE): 18 EN – (Rested, Finesse 3) = 14 EN

BD: 1 (miss).  Freyd misses Dark Elf #9.
BD: 5 + 4 = 9 (hit).  Freyd deals 264 damage to Dark Elf #10.  
BD: 5 + 4 = 9 (hit).  Freyd deals 264 damage to Dark Elf #11.  
BD: 5 + 4 = 9 (hit).  Freyd deals 264 damage to Dark Elf #12. 

MD: 7 - 5 = 2 (miss).  Dark Elf #9 misses Freyd
MD: 8 - 5 = 3 (miss).  Dark Elf #10 misses Freyd
MD: 4 - 5 = -1 (miss).  Dark Elf #11 misses Freyd
MD: 7 - 5 = 2 (miss).  Dark Elf #12 misses Freyd

Dark Elf #9 | HP: 460/460 | DMG: 138  
Dark Elf #10 | HP: 196/460 | DMG: 138 (460-264)
Dark Elf #11 | HP: 196/460 | DMG: 138 (460-264) 
Dark Elf #12 | HP: 196/460 | DMG: 138 (460-264)

 

Edited August 17, 2020 by Freyd - The Whisper in Shadows

[Freyd 0]

"Sound the alarm!" cried one of the guards, his breastplate hanging loose and in tatters around his hips and knees.  A quick flash of white across his chest guaranteed that he would never should another warning.  The remaining trio scrambled to mount some kind of defense.  Two were armed with spears and attempted to maintain some form of protective distance.  They soon learned that the versatility of a two-handed sword could function well at many different ranges, unlike their own weapons.  Both spears clattered noisily on the flagstone surface of the depot floor. 

That left only one, who was busy trying to decide whether to flee or soil himself.  A swift jab through his left thigh soon prevented the former, and programming likely prevented the latter.  Instead, he dropped his weapon and lifted his hands in surrender.  It was a move that Freyd had never encountered from a mob, let alone even considered.

Spoiler

Freyd, The Whisper in Shadows | HP:600/940 | EN:63/92 | DMG:22 | MIT:0 | EVA:5 | ACC:4 | HLY:2 | BLD:12 | Thorns 20 | LD 8 | Prosperity 3

Calamity Disaster (x12 AoE): 20 EN – (Rested, Finesse 3, turn recovery) =  15 EN

BD: 2 + 4 = 6 (hit).  Freyd deals 264 damage to Dark Elf #9.  
BD: 9 (crit +1).  Freyd deals (300 + 12 bleed) damage to Dark Elf #10.  Killed.
BD: 7 + 4 = 11 (hit).  Freyd deals 264 damage to Dark Elf #11.  Killed.
BD: 5 + 4 = 9 (hit).  Freyd deals 264 damage to Dark Elf #12. Killed.

MD: 1 (miss).  Dark Elf #9 misses Freyd

Dark Elf #9 | HP: 196/460 | DMG: 138  (460-264)
Dark Elf #10 | HP: 0/460 | DMG: 138 (196-312)
Dark Elf #11 | HP: 0/460 | DMG: 138 (196-264)
Dark Elf #12 | HP: 0/460 | DMG: 138  (196-264)

 

Edited August 20, 2020 by Freyd - The Whisper in Shadows

[Freyd 0]

"Seriously?"  Freyd was a bit bewildered.

"Uh... I've really kinda had it with getting killed over and over again, so yeah."   The dark elf was probably just buying time for his reinforcements to arrive, but it was too good an opportunity for intel for Frey to simply pass up.

"Okay then, so here's the deal: you answer every question truthfully and I let you go.  I get even the slightest whiff of a lie, and you get run through again."    The elf nodded emphatically in the affirmative.  Huh.

"Who leads the Sundered Spire?"

The guard shrugged.  "I follow the orders of the matriarchs, but have no idea who they might answer to, if anyone."

"Where can these matriarchs be found?"

"They're in concealed fortresses throughout this level.  Only commanding officers know which and where.  We keep dummy camps all over to keep you guys from finding them."

"Why does the Sundered Spire hate players so much?"

"Do you have any idea how many mobs have died at the hands of players over the years since this place went live?  Our level, in particular, is popular for grinding.  We get slaughtered over and over again.  Some of us can remember, and are getting really sick of it."  Shouting voices and the rapid clatter of footfalls could be heard approaching.

"What's your name?"  Freyd asked, urgently, taking a different tact.

"Uh... Dark Elf 1547?"

"Not anymore it isn't.  I'm calling you Dave.  Come find me at the outskirts of Charko when you respawn.  I'll help you if I can.  And... I'm very sorry."  The elf only had time to raise his eyebrows before his form shattered into a thousands crystalline motes of light.

 

Spoiler

Freyd, The Whisper in Shadows | HP:600/940 | EN:55/92 | DMG:22 | MIT:0 | EVA:5 | ACC:4 | HLY:2 | BLD:12 | Thorns 20 | LD 8 | Prosperity 3

Calamitous Tragedy (x12): 12 EN – (Rested, Finesse 3, turn recovery) = 8 EN

BD: 3 + 4 = 7 (hit).  Freyd deals 264 damage to Dark Elf #9.  

Dark Elf #9 | HP: 196/460 | DMG: 138  (196-264)
Dark Elf #10 | HP: 0/460 | DMG: 138 
Dark Elf #11 | HP: 0/460 | DMG: 138 
Dark Elf #12 | HP: 0/460 | DMG: 138  

Loot:

24794*Col
8*T3 Materials
T3 Perfect Consumable #165424a
T3 Perfect Consumable #165424b
T3 Perfect Armor/Shield #165424c
T3 Perfect Armor/Shield #165424d
T3 Perfect Weapon #165425a
T3 Perfect Weapon #165425b
T3 Perfect Weapon #165425c
T3 Rare Armor/Shield #165426a
T3 Perfect Trinket #165427a
T3 Perfect Weapon #165427b
 

 

Edited August 20, 2020 by Freyd - The Whisper in Shadows

[Freyd 0]

Another group of guards rounded one of the stone storage huts just as Freyd reluctantly silenced his prisoner.  He'd hoped to get more answers.  Perhaps he might still get the chance.  It seemed like some of the Spire's supporters were merely signing up out of desperation or fatigue.  That could lead to interesting options, if it was true.  He truly hoped to meet Dave again in the future, though he remained skeptical that it would ever happen.  Part of him actively hoped it didn't as this would help disprove the respawn recollection theory touted by other members of the Spire he had previously encountered.  

In the meantime, he had to dispatch the new batch of zealots coming at him.  Forgiven Disobedience was in the zone, and flared with holy fury as they closed.  Brilliant flashes of white light accompanied by angel song rang out into the surrounding darkness as they clashed.

Spoiler

Freyd, The Whisper in Shadows | HP:600/940 | EN:39/92 | DMG:22 | MIT:0 | EVA:5 | ACC:4 | HLY:2 | BLD:12 | Thorns 20 | LD 8 | Prosperity 3

Calamity Disaster (x12 AoE): 20 EN – (Rested, Finesse 3) = 16 EN

BD: 4 + 4 = 8 (hit).  Freyd deals 264 damage to Dark Elf #13.  
BD: 10 (Crit +2).  Freyd deals (312 + 12 bleed) damage to Dark Elf #14.  
BD: 5 + 4 = 9 (hit).  Freyd deals 264 damage to Dark Elf #15.  
BD: 10 (Crit +2).  Freyd deals (312 + 12 bleed) damage to Dark Elf #16.  

MD: 7 - 5 = 2 (miss).  Dark Elf #13 misses Freyd
MD: 8 - 5 = 3 (miss).  Dark Elf #14 misses Freyd
MD: 4 - 5 = -1 (miss).  Dark Elf #15 misses Freyd
MD: 7 - 5 = 2 (miss).  Dark Elf #16 misses Freyd

Dark Elf #13 | HP: 196/460 | DMG: 138 (460-264)  
Dark Elf #14 | HP: 136/460 | DMG: 138 (460-324) (Bleed 12, 1 of 2)
Dark Elf #15 | HP: 196/460 | DMG: 138 (460-264) 
Dark Elf #16 | HP: 136/460 | DMG: 138 (460-324) (Bleed 12, 1 of 2)

 

 

Edited August 20, 2020 by Freyd - The Whisper in Shadows

[Freyd 0]

This batch was no different than many of the other typical mooks he had fought on this floor.  Perhaps there was a correlation between how many times a mob had died and their level of awareness.  Some might also still be driven purely by rage, whereas Dave had seemed exhausted and affected by the ennui of continuous defeat.  Freyd couldn't bring himself to fault him, if it was true.

For now, he was content to clear out this stash and deny its resources to the Spire, whatever that might actually mean.  Encountering Dave was a far greater prize than anything he had actually hoped to discover here.  Wading through the remaining defenders with robotic precision, part of his mind wondered what these clashes must look like from a mob's perspective.  Player avatars significantly outclassed most of the mobs they fought, with rare exceptions.  It must be similar to how front liners feel when facing off against a floor boss.

Digital dust rained down around him as he finished his thoughts and set the surrounding storage building alight with a quickly summoned torch.  Freyd was reaching deeper into the rabbit hole than he had ever expected.

Spoiler

Freyd, The Whisper in Shadows | HP:600/940 | EN:39/92 | DMG:22 | MIT:0 | EVA:5 | ACC:4 | HLY:2 | BLD:12 | Thorns 20 | LD 8 | Prosperity 3

Calamity Disaster (x12 AoE): 20 EN – (Rested, Finesse 3) = 16 EN

BD: 4 + 4 = 8 (hit).  Freyd deals 264 damage to Dark Elf #13.  
BD: 7 + 4 = 11 (hit).  Freyd deals 264 damage to Dark Elf #14.  
BD: 2 + 4 = 6 (hit).  Freyd deals 264 damage to Dark Elf #15. 
BD: 4 + 4 = 8 (hit).  Freyd deals 264 damage to Dark Elf #16.    

Dark Elf #13 | HP: 196/460 | DMG: 138 (196-264)  
Dark Elf #14 | HP: 136/460 | DMG: 138 (136-264) (Bleed 12, 2 of 2)
Dark Elf #15 | HP: 196/460 | DMG: 138 (196-264) 
Dark Elf #16 | HP: 136/460 | DMG: 138 (136-264) (Bleed 12, 2 of 2)

Loot:

21252*Col
8*T3 Materials
T3 Rare Armor/Shield #165436a
T3 Perfect Armor/Shield #165437a
T3 Perfect Consumable #165437b
T3 Perfect Consumable #165437c
T3 Rare Weapon #165438a
T3 Uncommon Consumable #165438b
T3 Perfect Armor/Shield #165439a
T3 Perfect Weapon #165439b
 

 

Edited August 20, 2020 by Freyd - The Whisper in Shadows

[Freyd 0]

Discovering 'Dave' had really thrown Freyd for a spin.  It had been easy enough to view the Sundered Spire as a monolithic villain in need of serious curb stomping, but now... things had changed.  His postulations had focused on the risks and dangers inherent dangers of self-aware mobs, but what if they actually had some degree of free will to choose?  What if they only cleaved to the Sundered Spire because it offered their only option for protection, respite, or even payback?  How many might walk a different path if it was available to them.  What if a red-icon mob could take the Redemption quest?!

Shaking his head, as if to loosen all of the various questions congealing together in this thought-exercise, Freyd examined the deciphered missive to determine his next target.  The dark elves had a guard post nearby, which might host another champion or commander.  More intel might shed much-needed light on all of these very unsettling details.

Freyd rests and recovers 40 hp (20 +10 from Relaxed + 10 water canister = 40/post))  (now at 640/940).  

Edited August 20, 2020 by Freyd - The Whisper in Shadows

[Freyd 0]

Travelling quietly through the tangled fungal underbrush of the dark elves' caverns was becoming remarkably routine.  His clothing camouflaged him well, and Freyd's build was similar enough to the enemies he hunted here he might pass as one of them to the casual eye.  He considered the potential benefits of dying his hair white and skin tone to dark grey, if any to help him blend in better.  A full dark elf cosmetic skin might be available somewhere, though he wasn't really sure where to even start looking for such a thing.

An unusual snapping sound from above immediately put him on alert.  He froze in place while every one of his senses stretched out, searching for any potential source of danger.  Four shadowy figures dropped down around him, blocking his escape, each resembling him in appearance.  At first, he thought it might be a squad of gemini, like he had faced so long ago, until one of them spoke.

"You should not be here.  Warnings have already been granted to you.  Surrender, or die."

Freyd rests and recovers 40 hp (20 +10 from Relaxed + 10 water canister = 40/post))  (now at 680/940).  Energy fully recovered (Relaxed)

Edited August 20, 2020 by Freyd - The Whisper in Shadows

[Freyd 0]

"Dark elf assassins?  I wondered when you guys would show up."

"Make your choice.  I will not ask again."

Freyd shrugged, then wheeled in a sudden sword art blitz of attacks that barrages all four of them at once, forcing them to give ground.  So much force was behind it that their coverings and cowls blew back to reveal their true visages.  Each of their faces were heavily tattooed by ritualistic symbols made in orange ink, which stood in sharp contrast to their charcoal-coloured skin.  Orange.  They're marking themselves as PKers?!

"Oh, this just keeps getting better and better..."

All four rushed Freyd at once, forcing him to weave and dodge between their dagger strikes, countering with weapon and body against each incoming attack.  Elven curses flew faster than punches as he repulsed them at every turn.  One got a face full or pommel for daring to get too close, while another had his hand stepped on as Freyd pivoted to reproach a third.

 

Spoiler

Freyd, The Whisper in Shadows | HP:680/940 | EN:72/92 | DMG:22 | MIT:0 | EVA:5 | ACC:4 | HLY:2 | BLD:12 | Thorns 20 | LD 8 | Prosperity 3

Calamity Disaster (x12 AoE): 20 EN – (Rested, Finesse 3) = 16 EN

BD: 8 + 4 = 12 (hit).  Freyd deals 264 damage to Dark Elf #17.  
BD: 10 (Crit +2).  Freyd deals (312 + 12 bleed) damage to Dark Elf #18.  
BD: 6 + 4 = 10 (hit).  Freyd deals 264 damage to Dark Elf #19.  
BD: 3 + 4 = 7 (hit).  Freyd deals 264 damage to Dark Elf #19.  

MD: 8 - 5 = 3 (miss).  Dark Elf #17 misses Freyd
MD: 8 - 5 = 3 (miss).  Dark Elf #18 misses Freyd
MD: 3 - 5 = -2 (miss).  Dark Elf #19 misses Freyd
MD: 8 - 5 = 3 (miss).  Dark Elf #20 misses Freyd

Dark Elf #17 | HP: 196/460 | DMG: 138 (460-264)  
Dark Elf #18 | HP: 136/460 | DMG: 138 (460-324) (Bleed 12, 1 of 2)
Dark Elf #19 | HP: 196/460 | DMG: 138 (460-264) 
Dark Elf #20 | HP: 196/460 | DMG: 138 (460-264)

 

Edited August 20, 2020 by Freyd - The Whisper in Shadows

[Freyd 0]

"You can't hope to defeat us all, User.  We are leg-"

*SMACK*

"Yeah, I actually can, jerk face.  And while I'm all in favour of trading barbs during combat, cliches earn you an instant face-full of fist.  Move back five yards, then you can try again."

"Insolent fool!  How dare you-"

*SMACK*

"Okay, so you have some learning difficulties.  Don't worry, I have some experience in this myself.  Let's see what other tools we can use to help you out with that."  Moments later, the other three elves were down.  "So, let's try again without the added peer pressure."

The lone remaining assassin was gobsmacked.  He and his brothers were anointed slayers.  They had devoted themselves to the cause and taken on the sacred hunt to rid their homeland of the User scourge.  How could all of their efforts fail so badly?!  Refusing to allow it, he threw himself at Freyd in a suicidal rage that ended seconds later in a blinding slash of white.

Spoiler

Freyd, The Whisper in Shadows | HP:680/940 | EN:57/92 | DMG:22 | MIT:0 | EVA:5 | ACC:4 | HLY:2 | BLD:12 | Thorns 20 | LD 8 | Prosperity 3

Calamity Disaster (x12 AoE): 20 EN – (Rested, Finesse 3, turn recovery) = 15 EN

BD: 10 (Crit +2).  Freyd deals (312 + 12 bleed) damage to Dark Elf #17.  Killed
BD: 7 + 4 = 11 (hit).  Freyd deals 264 damage to Dark Elf #18.   Killed
BD: 9 (Crit +1).  Freyd deals (300 + 12 bleed) damage to Dark Elf #19.  Killed 
BD: 8 + 4 = 12 (hit).  Freyd deals 264 damage to Dark Elf #20.   Killed

Dark Elf #17 | HP: 0/460 | DMG: 138 (196-324)  
Dark Elf #18 | HP: 0/460 | DMG: 138 (136-264) (Bleed 12, 2 of 2)
Dark Elf #19 | HP: 0/460 | DMG: 138 (196-312) 
Dark Elf #20 | HP: 0/460 | DMG: 138 (196-264)

Loot:

18216*Col
12*T3 Materials
T3 Rare Weapon #165448a
T3 Uncommon Consumable #165448b
T3 Rare Weapon #165449a
T3 Uncommon Consumable #165449b
(21) Intermediate Dungeon Map #
T3 Perfect Armor/Shield #165451a
T3 Perfect Weapon #165451b
T3 Perfect Weapon #165451c
 

 

Edited August 20, 2020 by Freyd - The Whisper in Shadows