[SP-F23] Fonsa's Sacrifice, Part I: Search and Rescue

[Morningstar 0]

Spoiler

Floor 23
<<Search & Rescue>>
Party Limit: 2 | 20+ Posts
Repeatable for standard thread rewards.

Quest Rewards:

• 1,500 Experience Points
• 2,000 Col
• Unlocks access to <<Escaping the Underdark>> Quest

Requirements:

• Roleplay accepting the quest from Tythen.
• Players must roll the LD to find Fonsa, and pair with the CD to find the result (see table below).
• If the roll requires it, the party must defeat 2 Cursed Stags per player in party (4 max).
• Roleplay returning Fonsa to Tythen.  If Fonsa is killed, bring back her wedding ring as proof that she is no longer alive.

Summary:

The majority of the Dark Elves in Kalanaes couldn't care less about your visit to their glum and gloomy town. Many openly scowl at you as you pass by, contempt clear on their unnaturally attractive faces. One man, however, wears an expression of utter devastation. Unlike the others, who pass by without a word, he approaches you directly. With desperation in his dark eyes, Tythen introduces himseld and explains that his wife was sent to the Kriit Wastelands. A high-ranking official in what little remains of the Dark Elves' army, Fonsa was tasked with retrieving an artifact from Queen Lun’Rael's ruined tower in what little remains of their former capital on the surface - now known as the Vale of Ruin. Tythen begs you to travel to the surface and search the Vale of Ruin for his lost wife.

Outline: 

After accepting the quest from Tythen, the party must travel to the surface to look for his wife, Fonsa, in the wreckage of the Queen’s Tower and the surrounding Vale of Ruin.  Players must take four (4) posts combined travel and exploring, before they may start rolling to find Fonsa.

Players take turns rolling the LD, and will find Fonsa on a roll of 15+ (modifiers apply). In the event it takes more than five rolls (per player), she is automatically found on the next post.  Fonsa's condition and circumstances depend on the CD result of the roll that succeeds in finding her.  If she is found automatically, assume a CD result of 1.

CD Roll	Result
CD 1	Fonsa is found barely alive, fight off Cursed Stags and keep Fonsa alive. (She can sustain only 2 more hits)
CD 2-3	Fonsa is found barely alive, fight off Cursed Stags and keep Fonsa alive. (She can sustain only 3 more hits)
CD 4-7	Fonsa is found barely alive, fight off Cursed Stags and keep Fonsa alive. (She can sustain only 4 more hits)
CD 8-11	Fonsa is found alive, fight off Cursed Stags and keep Fonsa alive. (She can sustain only 5 more hits)
CD 12	Fonsa is found alive, no Cursed Stags to be fought. (She can sustain 6 hits)

 

Whether encountered when Fonsa is found, or afterwards, the party must fend off attacks from, and defeat, 2 Cursed Stags per player in party (4 max).

Players must then roleplay returning her to Kalanaes, though she will insist that her identity remain secret.  Fonsa will not reveal anything of her original mission or its results to the players, glaring suspiciously at anyone who asks.  But, she's a soldier, not a spy, and it is readily apparent that she no longer trusts her fellow Dark Elves.

---

NPCs:

<<Tythen>>
A handsome Dark Elf who has aged considerably with concern for his missing wife.

<<Fonsa>>
A powerful warrior who was sent on a secret mission, and has not been seen since.

EVA: 1
Fonsa’s armor and weapon are damaged beyond use, making her unable to fight or defend herself aside from trying to dodge the Cursed Stags’ attacks. This does not require a roll.
Note: Fonsa can only take so many hits depending on the initial CD roll from when she is found. Refer to table above for more information.

 

---

Enemies:

<<Cursed Stag>>
Once the pride of the Kriit Woodlands, these creatures have been twisted by dark magic into something menacing.

HP: 350/350 | DMG: 150 | MIT: 75

Abilities:

• Bloodthirst | The Cursed Stags will attack anything with reckless abandon. Fonsa will automatically generates one hate on each Cursed Stag every turn.
• Crazed Swing | On a MD roll of 9-10 the Cursed Stag will swing their horns wildly, turning their attack into an AoE that automatically hits every party member, including Fonsa. Players take standard numerical damage, Fonsa takes 1 hit.
   

---

Epilogue: 

If Fonsa and Tythen are reunited:

  Hide contents

The moment he sees her, Tythen draws his weary wife into fierce embrace. Over her shoulder, he mouths "Thank you," to the waiting players. When they finally draw apart, the grateful elf wraps an arm around Fonsa's shoulders, holding her tight to his side. "I cannot thank you enough for bringing my Fonsa back safely. You have already done so much, but if you would be willing, there is one more way that you could help us before taking your leave of this place."

If Fonsa is killed:

  Hide contents

Tythen studies the slim golden ring in the palm of his hand. Though tears threaten to spill over, he blinks them back in a fight to regain composure. When he finally does so, he turns to the waiting players. "My wife was a warrior," he tells them, "and she died a warrior's death. She would have no regrets, so neither will I." Drawing a ragged breath, he closes his hand around the ring. "Thank you for returning Fonsa's ring. If you would be so kind, there is one more thing that you could do for me."

Battered and dreary, the twenty-third floor was a place of war. The two tribes of dark elves that called it home lived in constant conflict. The lands were bleak and the settlements unwelcoming. Morningstar avoided it for those reasons. Notes of an eerie piano played in his head as he treaded through the city known as Kalanaes. He could not put his finger on where he had heard the strange song but it was ingrained in his mind so deeply, you would think he had composed it himself.

Gloomy scowls were plastered on the faces of the city's inhabitants. It was obvious to Morningstar that he was unwelcome in Kalanaes but he continued down the street anyway, hidden beneath his cloak. He hummed his solemn arpeggio, ignoring the bothered glares of passersby. He wondered why it was stuck in his head and where it had come from. Perhaps it was something he had heard in the real world. Or, maybe it was something he picked up in a town somewhere without realizing it.

It was curious.

"That's a beautiful song," a dark elf leaning against the side of a building glanced up at Morningstar.

He was sitting in what appeared to be an uncomfortable position. He slouched and his legs were crossed awkwardly. The man was young—or, at least, it looked that way—and had been the first to acknowledge Morningstar with anything other than negativity. The blonde stopped and turned to look down at the elf.

"Are you okay?" Morningstar asked.

There was hesitation in his voice. Fear and desperation as well. "No," the elf said, rubbing his eyes tiredly. "My wife was sent to the Kriit Wastelands."

Spoiler

Morningstar | Lv. 27 | HP: 540/540 | EN: 87/87 | DMG: 20 | ACC: 4 | MIT: 66 | EVA: 1 | 36 BLD | 1 PAR

Gear:

• Meteor | Perfect Two-Handed Straight Sword
  +2 BLD
  +1 PAR
• In Noctem | Perfect Light Armor
  +36 MIT
  +1 EVA
• Lexa's Light | Perfect Trinket
  +3 ACC

Skills:

• Straight Sword | Rank 5 | Precision | Stamina | Ferocity
  +9 DMG
  +1 ACC
  -2 ENG per attack
• Light Armor | Rank 5 | Meticulous
  +30 MIT
  -2 Stealth
  +1 DMG
• Searching | Rank 5 | Night Vision | Detect
  +5 LD
  +5 Stealth Detection
  -Darkness Penalties
  +2 Stealth Detection
  +1 LD when searching for dungeons/labyrinths
• Survival | Rank 1
  +10% to healing effects
  +Immunity to environmental effects
• Charge | Rank 1
  +5 DMG (when activated)
  -1 ACC (when activated)
  +2*tier ENG cost to activate
• Energist | Rank 1
  +15 ENG

Combat Mastery:

• Damage
  +9 DMG

Combat Shift:

• TECH Specialist
  +4 to multipliers
  +3 to ENG cost

 

Edited April 2, 2022 by Morningstar

[Morningstar 0]

He was familiar with the twisted wastelands and what they lead to. What once was a forest was now dead, left behind to rot after countless wars. It was clear from the man's expression that he believed that his wife was in danger. Morningstar gazed down at the man, pitying him.

"What's your name?" The blonde asked.

The question appeared to surprise the man. It was as if he had expected Morningstar to ignore him like all the rest. "Tythen. My name is Tythen."

Tythen's hood had dropped a bit, revealing more of his face. Concern had weathered him. The elves were a race that, by definition, were perfect in appearance. Their skin was normally smooth and flawless and their eyes sharp and dangerous. This man, however, looked tired and much older than he truly was.

"It's nice to meet you, Tythen. If you can tell me more about where your wife went, I can go looking for her," Morningstar reached out to help the man up.

Tythen blinked, staring up at the fair-headed man. "Thank you," he began, taking Morningstar's hand, "thank you so much."

Edited April 2, 2022 by Morningstar

[Morningstar 0]

"I'm afraid I don't know much," Tythen said, almost disappointed with himself, "other than that she mentioned a place called The Queen's Tower. I'm not familiar with its layout myself but it's at the heart of The Vale of Ruin."

Morningstar nodded. "I can't imagine there are any guides here to help me out."

"I apologize for the poor welcome. These are dark times," Tythen looked out at the town, his expression grim.

"I'll look for your wife. What was her name?" Morningstar asked.

"Fonsa," Tythen replied, "her name is Fonsa."

With that, Morningstar set off. Each step he took echoed throughout the silent town. He hummed gently, lifting the hood of his cloak to hide his identity. The tune looped through his mind and out his lips, haunting the streets of Kalanaes as he passed. Morningstar was well-versed in the fabricated history of the Underdark. Crippled by a war between two elven factions, the twenty-third floor was a desolate land. The Vale was proof of that. The old Queen's sacrifice had paused much of the conflict but the damage it had caused in its wake was great.

Morningstar stepped off of the paved road and felt the crunch of gravel beneath his feet. The city was behind him now and, far ahead, he glimpsed his destination. Sticking out from the Vale of Ruin was Lun'Rael's crumbling tower. He wondered why Fonsa had gone to such a dark place. He wondered who she was.

All it took was a swipe of his hand and his sword, Meteor, appeared on his back. Its golden sheen sparkled in the dim light. He took careful steps; though his vision had begun adjusting to the low lighting, he was in uncharted territory now. It was best for him to stay on guard.

1/4 searching for Fonsa

Edited February 4, 2023 by Morningstar

[Morningstar 0]

The closer he got to the Vale, the sadder he became. What once was a thriving kingdom was now nothing but history. At the top, the clouds parted and light escaped through whatever exits it could. The soil beneath him was long dead. He could see the battered ruins of an army around him and wondered what they had felt in its soldiers had felt in their final moments before the sacrifice. Were they proud to serve? Did they have regrets? From beneath his hood, he scanned his surroundings. The silence was deadly. He was alone.

After some time, Morningstar found himself at a gate that had long since crumbled away. He climbed carefully over the rubble, rocks tumbling down as he moved. Dust covered the edges of his cloak, mixing the green of the fabric with a light coat of grey. He gazed up at the tower. Gravity didn't seem to apply to it. The structural integrity was not in tact. Everything pointed to it falling to the ground and yet, despite missing entire portions of its walls, it stayed standing. Dusting himself off as much as he could, he proceeded towards the tower.

2/4 Searching for Fonsa

Edited February 4, 2023 by Morningstar

[Morningstar 0]

The tall tower loomed over Morningstar. He stared up, getting a better look at the opening in the clouds. With a grim expression, he entered, his eyes reverting to the path ahead.

The entrance to the tower had already been opened, presumably by Fonsa. Inside, it was quiet. It felt different than it had outside, however; he did not feel like he was alone. He scanned his surroundings, glimpsing mostly rubble and decaying overgrowth that had snuck its way inside through cracks in the stone. He noticed nothing of value but picked up a sharp rock that looked like it could be used as a spearhead. As he moved, the broken rocks on the walls shifted. Some crumbled off and thudded on the floor, startling him. His hand was steady above his shoulder, fingers touching the hilt of Meteor.

He wanted to call out to Fonsa, but he was wary of what else lurked in his blind spots. A staircase on the opposite side of the room led to the next floor of the tower. He wondered how far up Fonsa had made it. He wondered what had happened to her.

Determined to bring her back safely, he began his ascent.

Spoiler

ID: 212392 LD: 11+5=16 (Material found)
Total Materials: 1

3/4 searching for Fonsa

Edited February 4, 2023 by Morningstar

[Morningstar 0]

Suddenly, he thought he realized why Fonsa had come to the tower in the first place. There wasn't much in terms of volume but scattered among the rocks and rubble, there were jewels. Morningstar saw red, blue, green, and yellow rocks laying there, waiting for someone to take them. There were too many for one person to carry but he didn't think bagging a few would hurt anyone. He squatted down, picking up a few of each colour and tossing them into his inventory. He wasn't sure what he would do with them but if he had no use, then surely someone else would.

Had Fonsa come for the Queen's treasure? It didn't sound impossible but the gems looked mostly undisturbed. His eyes moved to the next staircase. Perhaps the higher you climbed, the better the loot became. He moved on, carefully tiptoeing over the gems, hoping he could avoid crushing them all.

Spoiler

ID: 212393 LD: 16+5=21 (Material found)

Total Materials: 2

4/4 searching for Fonsa

Edited February 4, 2023 by Morningstar

[Morningstar 0]

The third floor was much like the first: empty, aside from debris. Fonsa was nowhere to be found. From high above, he heard the crashing of rocks. It drew his attention and he rushed towards the only window available. He stuck his head out, peaking upwards. He couldn't see anything from outside. The sound did not seem natural to him. Someone—or something—was inside the tower with him.

His pace quickened as he moved up the floors. He passed the fourth, the fifth, and the sixth before coming to a stop. There was another crash but this time he could have sworn he had heard the voice of a woman following it.

"Fonsa?" He called out.

There was no response but his gut told him it was her. As he began to climb the stairs to floor seven, he felt one come loose under him. Suddenly, the bottom half of the staircase collapsed, leaving him stranded below. He cursed under his breathe, turning his head as he heard another bang from above. A brick from the wall fell from one of the floors above and passed by the window he had looked out from before.

Spoiler

ID: 212394 LD: 6+5=11 (Fonsa not found)

 

Edited February 4, 2023 by Morningstar

[Morningstar 0]

It was a stupid idea but Morningstar's options were limited. After trying (and failing) to pile up some of the rubble to reach the part of the staircase that stayed intact, he found himself desperate to reach the next floor. A dagger formed in each of his hands as he peered out the window once more. Once he knew that he was clear from falling rocks, he lifted himself onto the window sill and stood as tall as he could. He tried not to look down but that was easier said than done. It was a long drop from the sixth floor but he was pretty sure that he would survive the fall. The higher he got, the less likely that became. He inhaled deeply before attempting to stab a dagger in a crack between two stone bricks. Once he was confident that it would hold he did the same with his other dagger.

He wasn't much of a rock climber. Since arriving in Aincrad, he had done a handful of moderately difficult climbs but even they were safe enough that he felt fearless attempting them. This was a new experience for him. He intended on scaling the wall of the tower with nothing but a pair of daggers and a lot of willpower.

He wished he had a harness.

Spoiler

ID: 212395 LD: 3+5=8 (Fonsa not found)

 

Edited February 4, 2023 by Morningstar

[Morningstar 0]

"Alright Stephen," he hyped himself up, "you've got this."

Then, carefully, he twisted his body to gain a better position on the wall. He held both daggers tightly and planted his right foot on a brick below. When he did the same with his left, he felt an immense strain on his body as he tried to hold himself up. His core tightened and his forearms burned. He took his time, knowing that he wouldn't be able to hold himself for long after drawing a dagger from the wall. Morningstar knew that quick precision would be key to his survival.

Like ripping off a band-aid, he ripped the dagger from the crevice and shoved it into a higher one.

"Not so bad," Morningstar muttered, not that he believed himself.

Minutes later he found himself nearing the seventh floor. He stared upward the entire time but his mind could tolerate only the thought of moving forward. He couldn't think about how tall the tower was, the light that seemed to mock him from above, nor the strange antlers that peaked out from where the tower split in half. All of his focus was on the task at hand.

Spoiler

ID: 212396 LD: 8+5=13 (Fonsa not found)

 

Edited February 4, 2023 by Morningstar

[Morningstar 0]

He reached the window of the seventh floor and used the last of his strength to force himself inside. He rolled off of the edge and onto the hard, stone floor below. His breathing was erratic and he'd become tired from the climb. For a moment, his eyes glazed over to the wall. The beaten figure of a person lay motionless against it.

In a hushed tone, Morningstar called to the woman. "Fonsa?"

Her eyes opened. "Who are you?"

"I'm here to help," he picked himself up, dusting himself off as he stepped towards the girl, "Tythen sent me to find you. He was worried. Rightfully, I guess."

She was injured badly. It did not seem like she could stand, let alone walk. The staircase was still in ruins and the drop to the floor beneath them would likely kill her in her state. He swished his hand, opening his inventory. A health potion formed in his hand.

"Drink this, okay? I'm going to get you out of here," Morningstar said, his menu disappearing.

Her eyes widened. Morningstar thought it was in response to the flask but then he heard the clomping behind him. He spun around but the stag was quick. It lunged at him, knocking him to the ground. The health potion flew from his grip, shattering upon impacting the ground.

Spoiler

ID: 212397 LD: 16+5=21 (Fonsa found!) CD: 3 (Fonsa is barely alive, she can survive 3 hits)

Morningstar | Lv. 27 | HP: 540/540 | EN: 87/87 | DMG: 20 | ACC: 4 | MIT: 66 | EVA: 1 | 36 BLD | 1 PAR
Fonsa | HP: 3/3 | EVA: 1

Cursed Stag A | HP: 350/350 | DMG: 150 | MIT: 75
Cursed Stag B | HP: 350/350 | DMG: 150 | MIT: 75
Bloodthirst | The Cursed Stags will attack anything with reckless abandon. Fonsa will automatically generates one hate on each Cursed Stag every turn.
Crazed Swing | On a MD roll of 9-10 the Cursed Stag will swing their horns wildly, turning their attack into an AoE that automatically hits every party member, including Fonsa. Players take standard numerical damage, Fonsa takes 1 hit.

 

Edited February 4, 2023 by Morningstar

[Morningstar 0]

Morningstar had been caught off guard by the Cursed Stag. The beast had a golden glow to it that almost looked beautiful had it not been twisted into a monster. In reaction to the attack, he lifted himself up and drew Meteor. The slicing sound of the sword silenced the room. Then, it began to shine. Morningstar's sword art matched the stag's aura almost perfectly. He instinctively activated Charge and as he stepped off to form his attack, he felt his body move at an unnatural speed. The blade felt heavy in his hands. He raised it swiftly, bringing it down with rage into the stag's back.

A second stag approached from the staircase. He needed to get Fonsa out of there quickly. She lay still, barely conscious and unaware of what was happening in front of her. The stag backed up in pain, before toppling over in the rubble.

"Stay with me Fonsa, alright? Your husband is waiting for us back home," Morningstar called to Fonsa, positioned defensively in front of the second stag.

Spoiler

ID: 212398 BD: 7 (Hit) CD: 12 (ST-B Available)

Charge Activated
TECH-A Activated

(20+3)*12=276-75=201 DMG
+ STUN

-15 ENG

Morningstar | Lv. 27 | HP: 540/540 | EN: 72/87 | DMG: 20 | ACC: 4 | MIT: 66 | EVA: 1 | 36 BLD | 1 PAR | H: 1
Fonsa | HP: 3/3 | EVA: 1

Cursed Stag A | HP: 149/350 | DMG: 150 | MIT: 75 | STUNNED
Cursed Stag B | HP: 350/350 | DMG: 150 | MIT: 75
Bloodthirst | The Cursed Stags will attack anything with reckless abandon. Fonsa will automatically generates one hate on each Cursed Stag every turn.
Crazed Swing | On a MD roll of 9-10 the Cursed Stag will swing their horns wildly, turning their attack into an AoE that automatically hits every party member, including Fonsa. Players take standard numerical damage, Fonsa takes 1 hit.

 

Edited February 5, 2023 by Morningstar

[Morningstar 0]

What went through the stag's mind as it stepped past the other that lay in the dust? Did it worry for a friend or had its curse made it emotionless?

It didn't matter. Morningstar gasped, still exhausted from the climb. The stag moved slowly, more cautiously than its partner. He pushed forward, gritting his teeth as he swung his heavy sword upward. The stag dodged to the left, stabbing at Morningstar with its antlers. Star deflected the attempt with the flat end of his blade. As they fought, he'd turn his head periodically to check on Fonsa. She was in a bad state and at this rate, he wasn't sure if she would live.

The stag had pushed him backward until he found himself against the wall. It charged and before making contact with Morningstar, he leaped and rolled out of the way. It's antlers stuck into the wall and a brick came loose, tumbling seven stories and crashing into the ground.

Spoiler

Morningstar | Lv. 27 | HP: 540/540 | EN: 72/87 | DMG: 20 | ACC: 4 | MIT: 66 | EVA: 1 | 36 BLD | 1 PAR | H: 1
Fonsa | HP: 3/3 | EVA: 1

Cursed Stag A | HP: 149/350 | DMG: 150 | MIT: 75 | STUNNED
Cursed Stag B | HP: 350/350 | DMG: 150 | MIT: 75
Bloodthirst | The Cursed Stags will attack anything with reckless abandon. Fonsa will automatically generates one hate on each Cursed Stag every turn.
Crazed Swing | On a MD roll of 9-10 the Cursed Stag will swing their horns wildly, turning their attack into an AoE that automatically hits every party member, including Fonsa. Players take standard numerical damage, Fonsa takes 1 hit.

 

Edited February 5, 2023 by Morningstar

[Morningstar 0]

The stag ripped its antlers from the wall, charging forwards without aim. It went into a frenzy; the bloodthirst was clear in its eyes. Fonsa was directly in its path. If he was not quick, she'd be trampled by the beast. Morningstar jumped in its way, using his sword to hold back the stag's attack. His blade stuck to the stag's tough antlers, unable to damage them but strong enough to stop it from killing Fonsa. He peaked back to look at the woman, unable to tell if she was still conscious. He groaned as the stag pushed harder but didn't lose balance. Then, he pushed back, breaking its poise and knocking it back. 

He noticed the other Cursed Stag beginning to stand. The stun was wearing off and it looked angry. He didn't have long before it would attack. A faint glimmer emanated from Meteor as he prepared another Sword Art.

Spoiler

ID: 212399 MD: 5-1=4 (Miss)

Bloodthirst activates. +1 Hate to Fonsa

Morningstar | Lv. 27 | HP: 540/540 | EN: 72/87 | DMG: 20 | ACC: 4 | MIT: 66 | EVA: 1 | 36 BLD | 1 PAR | H: 1
Fonsa | HP: 3/3 | EVA: 1 | H: 1

Cursed Stag A | HP: 149/350 | DMG: 150 | MIT: 75 | STUNNED
Cursed Stag B | HP: 350/350 | DMG: 150 | MIT: 75
Bloodthirst | The Cursed Stags will attack anything with reckless abandon. Fonsa will automatically generates one hate on each Cursed Stag every turn.
Crazed Swing | On a MD roll of 9-10 the Cursed Stag will swing their horns wildly, turning their attack into an AoE that automatically hits every party member, including Fonsa. Players take standard numerical damage, Fonsa takes 1 hit.

 

Edited February 5, 2023 by Morningstar

[Morningstar 0]

Morningstar jolted at the stag he had knocked back. The glow of his blade became less and less faint as he charged forwards, preparing to unleash his most powerful attack. He pulled the sword back and then thrust it into the stag's chest. From behind, Fonsa had returned from her unconscious state. She stood valiantly, determined to help Morningstar.

Hearing her footsteps, he rotated to face her the best he could with the sword still deep in the beast's chest. He motioned to her to back up, but she continued to hobble towards him, dagger in hand. The other stag was now capable of moving once again. The paralysis had completely worn off. Morningstar pulled at his sword but it was stuck in the stag. In a panic, he shouted at Fonsa to run. She looked shocked and turned her head, noticing the wild eyes of the stag that approached her in a swift frenzy.

Spoiler

ID: 212400 BD: 6 (Hit)

ST-B activated.

20*20=400-75=325 DMG to Cursed Stag B

-22 ENG
+1 Hate

Morningstar | Lv. 27 | HP: 540/540 | EN: 50/87 | DMG: 20 | ACC: 4 | MIT: 66 | EVA: 1 | 36 BLD | 1 PAR | H: 2
Fonsa | HP: 3/3 | EVA: 1 | H: 1

Cursed Stag A | HP: 149/350 | DMG: 150 | MIT: 75
Cursed Stag B | HP: 25/350 | DMG: 150 | MIT: 75
Bloodthirst | The Cursed Stags will attack anything with reckless abandon. Fonsa will automatically generates one hate on each Cursed Stag every turn.
Crazed Swing | On a MD roll of 9-10 the Cursed Stag will swing their horns wildly, turning their attack into an AoE that automatically hits every party member, including Fonsa. Players take standard numerical damage, Fonsa takes 1 hit.

 

Edited February 5, 2023 by Morningstar

[Morningstar 0]

Morningstar cursed and let go of his weapon, leaving it with the dying stag. He rushed to Fonsa's side and watched as a pair of heavy antlers closed in on them. He stood in front of her now, the hood of his cloak falling and revealing a blonde mess and amber eyes. Crazed, the stag swung its horns wildly. Morningstar felt a stabbing sensation in his abdomen. He had taken the brunt of the damage, but Fonsa was not left unscathed.

She lay on the ground, clutching her arm in pain. The stag tried stomping on her with its hooves but Morningstar threw a pair of quick punches at it, forcing it to back away. The other stag, slow and weak from Morningstar's previous attack, still tried to stay in the fight. Morningstar lifted his fists into a guard, analyzing his situation. He was swordless, outnumbered, and stuck in a disadvantageous position protecting Fonsa.

"Can you move?" He asked over his shoulder.

Fonsa struggled, unable to stand on her own. "Not well."

Even still, she dragged herself away from Morningstar while the stags were focused on him.

Spoiler

ID: 212401 MD: 10 (Hit)

Bloodthirst activated.
Crazed Swing activated.

152-66=86 DMG to Morningstar
1 Hit to Fonsa
+1 Hate to Fonsa

Morningstar | Lv. 27 | HP: 456/540 | EN: 50/87 | DMG: 20 | ACC: 4 | MIT: 66 | EVA: 1 | 36 BLD | 1 PAR | Hate (Cursed Stag A): 1 | Hate (Cursed Stag B): 1
Fonsa | HP: 2/3 | EVA: 1 | Hate (Cursed Stag A): 1 | Hate (Cursed Stag B): 1

Cursed Stag A | HP: 149/350 | DMG: 150 | MIT: 75
Cursed Stag B | HP: 25/350 | DMG: 150 | MIT: 75
Bloodthirst | The Cursed Stags will attack anything with reckless abandon. Fonsa will automatically generates one hate on each Cursed Stag every turn.
Crazed Swing | On a MD roll of 9-10 the Cursed Stag will swing their horns wildly, turning their attack into an AoE that automatically hits every party member, including Fonsa. Players take standard numerical damage, Fonsa takes 1 hit.

 

Edited February 5, 2023 by Morningstar

[Morningstar 0]

The wounded stag swung at Morningstar with its horns but it was too slow to come close to hitting Morningstar. He had weakened it enough for it to become far less of a threat than it had been before. He used this chance to retrieve his sword by grabbing hold of the hilt and using a leg to help pull it from the stag's chest where it was stuck. This angered the stag even more, causing it to lash out in a flurry of weakened attacks. Morningstar dodged and blocked them all with ease.

Fonsa had made it to the stairs but looked down hesitantly at the drop. Morningstar looked at her in between attacks, understanding her worry. The fall was dangerous for someone in her state. She gazed down at the poorly lit room beneath her and then back at Morningstar.

"Hold on," He called out to her, preparing another Sword Art.

Spoiler

ID: 212402 MD: 5-1 (Miss)

Bloodthirst activated.

+1 Hate to Fonsa

Morningstar | Lv. 27 | HP: 456/540 | EN: 50/87 | DMG: 20 | ACC: 4 | MIT: 66 | EVA: 1 | 36 BLD | 1 PAR | Hate (Cursed Stag A): 1 | Hate (Cursed Stag B): 1
Fonsa | HP: 2/3 | EVA: 1 | Hate (Cursed Stag A): 1 | Hate (Cursed Stag B): 2

Cursed Stag A | HP: 149/350 | DMG: 150 | MIT: 75
Cursed Stag B | HP: 25/350 | DMG: 150 | MIT: 75
Bloodthirst | The Cursed Stags will attack anything with reckless abandon. Fonsa will automatically generates one hate on each Cursed Stag every turn.
Crazed Swing | On a MD roll of 9-10 the Cursed Stag will swing their horns wildly, turning their attack into an AoE that automatically hits every party member, including Fonsa. Players take standard numerical damage, Fonsa takes 1 hit.

 

Edited February 5, 2023 by Morningstar

[Morningstar 0]

Morningstar's blade burned gold for only a brief moment as he made his final attack. Fonsa stayed low while Meteor arced in a bright wave, hitting both of the stags simultaneously. The stumbled for a moment, bright red pixels falling from their wounds, before shattering into a storm of blue.

He rushed to Fonsa's side, looking down at the drop they would need to take. She could not have made it alone but with him there to help, Fonsa would be fine. Morningstar crept down the few stairs that remained and leaped down to the sixth floor.

"I'll catch you," he told Fonsa.

Skeptical, Fonsa followed his lead, dropping from above. Knees bent and prepared for impact, Morningstar reached out, catching Fonsa in his arms.

"You okay?" He asked, helping her to her feet.

"I'm alive, thanks to you," Fonsa replied, wrapping her arm around his shoulder.

Morningstar helped her walk down each set of stairs, leading her to the bottom of the tower and out the front entrance. They returned to the quiet courtyard, climbed over the rubble, and began their journey to Kalanaes.

Spoiler

ID: 212403 BD: 9 (Crit +1)
ID: 212404 LD: 18 CD: 3 (+1 Rare Consumable, +1 Rare Weapon)
ID: 212405 LD: 1 CD: 11 (No bonus loot)

(20+1)*11=231-75=156 DMG to Cursed Stag A and Cursed Stag B

+2100 Col for defeating Cursed Stag A & B

Morningstar | Lv. 27 | HP: 456/540 | EN: 50/87 | DMG: 20 | ACC: 4 | MIT: 66 | EVA: 1 | 36 BLD | 1 PAR | Hate (Cursed Stag A): 1 | Hate (Cursed Stag B): 1
Fonsa | HP: 2/3 | EVA: 1 | Hate (Cursed Stag A): 1 | Hate (Cursed Stag B): 2

Cursed Stag A | HP: 0/350 | DMG: 150 | MIT: 75
Cursed Stag B | HP: 0/350 | DMG: 150 | MIT: 75
Bloodthirst | The Cursed Stags will attack anything with reckless abandon. Fonsa will automatically generates one hate on each Cursed Stag every turn.
Crazed Swing | On a MD roll of 9-10 the Cursed Stag will swing their horns wildly, turning their attack into an AoE that automatically hits every party member, including Fonsa. Players take standard numerical damage, Fonsa takes 1 hit.

 

Edited February 5, 2023 by Morningstar

[Morningstar 0]

They walked the first stretch of the way back to town in silence. Morningstar's hood was up once again but now his face was more visible. They passed through the dead wasteland at a slow pace so that Fonsa could keep up despite her injuries.

"Why come here?" Morningstar asked.

She said nothing in response, her eyes kept on the road ahead.

"I saw the treasure. You didn't take any though, so that's not it."

Still, he received nothing but silence.

"Did you at least find what you were looking for?"

"No," Fonsa said, finally.

Morningstar could not tell whether she was truthful in her reply or not. She was full of secrets, he could tell that much. It wasn't any of his business who she was or what her goals were. His task was simply to return her home safely and, he was almost done. Meteor's golden glow faded as he slipped it back into the sheath on his back, knowing that he would no longer need to use it.

[Morningstar 0]

"Want something to eat?" Morningstar asked.

They were close to the city but he thought he would offer anyway. They had both had long days. With a swish of his hand, a blue screen opened inches from his face. He tapped different sections of it and, suddenly, an apple formed in each hand. It wasn't much—he knew that—but it would do the trick. He stuck one out to Fonsa and she took it graciously.

"Thank you," she said.

"It's no problem."

Morningstar didn't mind gaps in conversation but these didn't feel like gaps. They were like voids. He bit into the apple, the satisfying crunch putting him at ease. She finally spoke up.

"How do you know my husband?" She asked.

Morningstar thought for a moment, giving himself a chance to swallow. "I don't. We met on the street just today."

She wore a surprised expression. "You risked your own life to help a stranger?"

Star shrugged. "Just what I do, I guess."

[Morningstar 0]

"There's honor in that. What is your name?" Fonsa asked.

"Morningstar."

"I'm grateful to you, Morningstar."

He took another bite of his apple. It was sweet and firm. He hated soft apples. They lacked all of the qualities that he thought made apples decent fruit. They weren't crisp, they were never as juicy, and they just felt bad to eat. He had chosen these two well, he thought. He tossed it to the side of the path when he had eaten all that he could.

"We're here," he said, coming to a stop outside of the gate.

She looked at him briefly. "Do you have a spare cloak?"

Morningstar raised a brow. "What for?"

"I would like to keep my identity a secret for the time being."

He looked down the road, into town. Then, he pulled off his cloak. "Take mine."

"Are you sure?"

"Yeah. I'll find a new one someday."