Freyd 0 Posted July 31 #1 Share Posted July 31 (edited) Having picked up the quest from Abdullah, Freyd had relied on a favoured disguise to keep from having to interact with the mob as himself. They had a complicated relationship, where Freyd had repeatedly taunted the NPC to test whether he could provoke a more complex response based on memories of past interactions. Gathered around him were the latest batch of candidates gathered for the sharkbait training program. All were known allies and acquaintances, this time around, and brought together with a more deliberate purpose. Relying on Firm Anima's agents wasn't always ideal. A mix of allies chosen from inside the guild's rank and beyond offered better versatility, which is what was truly required. "Quip, Jeeves and Foyle. You know the rules. No shenanigans, or it could mean your death. If we can complete this without any drama, it should provide you all with a significant boost." If things went according to plan, they will have built a strong foundation for what would follow. *** Note: CS (Shades of the Gemini) is in use. If any other player objects to this, please state in first post and it will be considered inactive. Freyd consumes: Gugnir’s Shard (Untradeable/Unique/Reusable Consumable): Crème Brûlée Tray | ACC 2 | Feast (6/6) - takes 1 portion (filled), then shares with party. [Draft of Keen Edge] - T1 Perfect Potion | Damage 3 | 182192 Red Velvet Meringue (Snack) | Evasion 2 | 179654 Divinity's Wait (Meal)| Mitigation 3 | 188391-2 Shrimp Gumbo | Tierless Perfect Meal | Overhealth 3 | 216725 Freyd | HP: 1357/1357 | EN: 156/156 | DMG: 24 | MIT: 105 | EVA: 6 | ACC: 6 | BH: 64 | LD: 6 | FLN: 16 | HLY: 16 | REC: 8 | V.D.: 129 Spoiler Freyd, The Whisper in Shadows Level: 33 Paragon Level: 131 HP: 1180/1180+177 EN: 156/156 Stats: Damage: 21+3 Mitigation: 45+60 Evasion: 4+2 Accuracy: 3+2+1 Battle Healing: 64 Loot Dice: 6 FLN: 16 HLY: 16 REC: 8 V.D.: 129 Equipped Gear: Weapon: Samael's Pride | T4 MA | FLN 2 | HLY 2 Armor: Black Cowled Traveling Garb | T4 CA | VD 2 | REC 2 Misc: Fight O'er Flight (ACC 2 | EVA 2) Combat Mastery: Damage R3 Combat Shift: AOE Familiar Skill: Grappling Familiar Custom Skill: Shades of the Gemini Skills: Martial Arts R5 Battle Healing R5 Cloth Armor R5 Searching R4 Charge Energist Quick Change Extended Mod Limit Extended Weight Limit Fighting Spirit Howl Active Mods: Night Vision Tracking Athletics Emergency Recovery Untraceable Detect Inactive Mods: Addons: Focus Precision Nimble Reveal Stamina Focused Howl Active Extra Skills: Disguise Survival Forgotten King’s Authority Hiding R4 Inactive Extra Skills: Meditation Frozen Hide Brawler Photosynthesize Battle Ready Inventory: Teleport Crystals x7 Mass HP Rec [Inst] (+10% HP) x7 T4 Vitality (+16 EN) x7 Crystal of Divine Light (Reusable) x1 Rhino's Horn (Reusable) x1 Hmr.Pk: Hope's Covenant - Resolve +4 (T4 Demonic Weapon (MA) - AA, Phase, Frostbite, VO x1 EWL: The Thing Behind All Lies (T4 Demonic MA, AA, Blight, Static, Para.Ven (Off)) x1 EWL: Shadowed Rose (ACC 3 | Para.Imm.) x1 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 Delicious: Turn 3 identical food items (same quality, tier, & enhancements) into a Feast. A Feast contains 6 portions of the food items sacrificed. Relaxed: Increases out of combat HP regen by (5 * Tier HP) and decreases full energy regen to 2 Out of Combat Posts. Skylight (Searching): +1 Rank to the Searching skill. Angler: +2 Fishing EXP per attempt Practiced Angler: +2 Fishing EXP per attempt, addition +1 LD/CD to fishing attempts Advanced Training: +10% Exp to a thread. Limit one use per month [1/1] Multipurpose: Gain +1 to LD, Stealth Rating, Stealth Detection, or Prosperity to one post in a thread. Can be applied after a roll Decor [Potted Tanabata Bamboo Tree]: This buff affects the player and their choice of up to two party members. 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: Tanos Statue: +25 Mitigation for a thread. Wedding Ring: Fishing: Level 5 | 576XP" Edited August 3 by Freyd Link to post Share on other sites
Foyle 0 Posted July 31 #2 Share Posted July 31 (edited) "I understand," Foyle replied simply. He was a man of few words and strict action, guided by the principles of Bushido in a world tumbling ahead beyond his understanding or control. His chosen captain had provided instructions. They would be followed. That was enough for him, granting direction. A humble nod and bow mimicked his words. It wasn't a hard decision to make. Freyd had made it abundantly clear that this thing could kill them each in turn with naught but a stray sidewards glance. That was the whole point: to make them stronger and ready to take on such challenges, or at least enough to assist. He'd already decided to work his way into katana training, as well as learning the basics of martial arts. A traditionalist at heart, there was really no other choice, at least in his mind. Readying the simple blade at his side, he knew this fight was more about footwork and positioning. Foyle would be ready. *** Foyle consumes: Gugnir’s Shard (Untradeable/Unique/Reusable Consumable): Crème Brûlée Tray | ACC 2 | Feast (5/6) - takes 1 portion Foyle | HP: 20/20 | EN: 20/20 | DMG: 2 | ACC: 2 Spoiler Foyle, Level: 1 Paragon Level: 0 HP: 20/20 EN: 20/20 Stats: Damage: 2 Equipped Gear: Weapon: Vanity sword Armor: Vanity light armor Misc: Vanity shield Combat Mastery: - R- Combat Shift: - Familiar Skill: - Custom Skill: Skills: Straight Sword R1 Active Mods: Inactive Mods: Tracking Athletics Emergency Recovery Untraceable Detect Addons: Active Extra Skills: Inactive Extra Skills: Battle Ready Inventory: Housing Buffs: Guild Hall Buffs: Scents of the Wild: Wedding Ring: -: Level 0 | 0XP" Edited August 3 by Foyle Link to post Share on other sites
Jeeves 0 Posted July 31 #3 Share Posted July 31 (edited) Subdued and introverted, Jeeves merely nodded, hiding as best he could behind his goggles as he scribbled something down in his travelling notebook. Clearly a bookworm by nature, the smaller fellow was content to let brasher personalities take centre stage while he learned at his own pace. Not considered to be combat material by most of his companions, even the crafter in Firm Anima were surprised at his enrollment in O&I. Freyd seemed to take a different tack, taking the boy under his wing. He knew Jeeves' tale and what might motivate him to want to take a more active role, even if it meant using less obvious channels. The alchemist's kit and tools sleeved into his belt and vest gave him a slightly steampunk appearance. Jeeves was fine with all of it. He wanted others to misunderstand him, and underestimate his capabilities. It would make his plans all that much easier to achieve. *** Jeeves consumes: Gugnir’s Shard (Untradeable/Unique/Reusable Consumable): Crème Brûlée Tray | ACC 2 | Feast (5/6) - takes 1 portion Jeeves | HP: 20/20 | EN: 20/20 | DMG: 7 | ACC: 5 | LD: 3 Spoiler Jeeves, The Subtle Servant Level: 1 Paragon Level: 0 HP: 20/20 EN: 20/20 Stats: Damage: 7 Accuracy: 3 Loot Dice: 3 Equipped Gear: Weapon: Pestle Pick | DMG 3 Armor: Dioscuri | ACC 3 Misc: Music Box | LD 3 Combat Mastery: - Combat Shift:- Familiar Skill: - Custom Skill: - Skills: Dagger R1 Active Mods: Inactive Mods: Addons: Active Extra Skills: Inactive Extra Skills: Battle Ready Inventory: Starter Healing Potions (50 HP) x3 Housing Buffs: Guild Hall Buffs: Scents of the Wild: Wedding Ring: Gathering: Level 0 | 0XP" Edited August 3 by Jeeves Link to post Share on other sites
Quip 0 Posted July 31 #4 Share Posted July 31 (edited) "Hey, Freyd! Whit a' this aboot staying oan th' sidelines? If ah kin whomp treants wi' ye, then some tubby sand guppy shouldn't be ony trauchle at a'. A'm gonnae rammy, 'n' dinnae even huv a go tae tell me otherwise. Quip ain't na feartie-cat lazing aboot while ithers dae a' th' wirk. Ye'v git dingo fur that! Har. Har. Har." Freyd raised a single brow at her bluster, but offered no protest. He knew better than to argue with Quip once she'd set her mind to something, and that she needed to be left to learn the hard way when she called things wrong. Fortunately, they'd fought side by side enough that he knew her capabilities. "Just bade behind me, short stuff," she teased Jeeves, who pursed his lips in displeasure. "I kin protect th' lot o' ye fae some overgrown 'n' rambunctious piece o' mutant sushi, if ye'r a' tae feart tae tak' point." Her coarse blonde braids bobbed around as she grinned and cackled, a certain barbaric haze of eagerness forming an aura of bravado like additional armor around her. Spoiler "Hey, Freyd! What all this about staying on the sidelines? If I can whomp treants with you, then some tubby sand guppy shouldn't be any trouble at all. I'm gonna fight, and don't even try to tell me otherwise. Quip ain't no coward lazing about while others do all the work. You've got dingo for that! Har. Har. Har." "Just stay behind me, short stuff," she teased Jeeves, who pursed his lips in displeasure. "I can protect the lot of you from some overgrown and rambunctious piece of mutant sushi, if you're all too afraid to take point." *** Quip consumes: Gugnir’s Shard (Untradeable/Unique/Reusable Consumable): Crème Brûlée Tray | ACC 2 | Feast (4/6) - takes 1 portion Quip | HP: 220/220 | EN: 40/40 | DMG: 14 | MIT: 14 | ACC: 5 | ENV.O: 8 | PARA | THRNS: 9 | V.O.: 22 Spoiler Quip Level: 11 Paragon Level: 0 HP: 220/220 EN: 40/40 Stats: Damage: 14 Mitigation: 14 Accuracy: 3 ENV.O: 8 PARA THRNS: 9 V.O.: 22 Equipped Gear: Weapon: Avarice of Black Jade +2 (T1 CS | Para | Env.O. | V.O) Armor: T1 Rare HA (Mit 1, Thrns 1) Misc: Amber (T1 ACC 3) Custom Skill: Skills: Curved Sword R5 Light Armor R2 Active Mods: Inactive Mods: Addons: Precision Active Extra Skills: Inactive Extra Skills: Battle Ready Inventory: Housing Buffs: 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: Wedding Ring: Edited August 3 by Quip Link to post Share on other sites
Freyd 0 Posted August 2 Author #5 Share Posted August 2 (edited) Quip had also clearly forgotten that this was her second time through the program. They'd failed to obtain the extra skill obtainable from the quest during their last run through. The extra combat prowess never hurt, but Freyd was really aiming to pad out her skill set a bit. "This way, and wait for my signal to engage." It took them little time to reach the hollow sand bowl where Firm Anima made its lair, the surrounding rock walls providing both natural protection and an enclosure to keep it from threatening Nimbus directly. "There, on the west side. See the fin. Don't underestimate this mob. It's one of the fastest and deadliest creatures shy of a field boss across most of the explored floors. And it will eat you, given the slightest chance" Slipping down into the impromptu arena, Freyd and Persi opened with their standard pincer attack to good effect. She stunned the beast and he quickly smashed it so hard that half of its health vanished instantaneously. *** Spoiler Post Action | AoE-I (x15, 11 EN, +2 Shift, +2/hit): 15 EN - (Rested 2/2; Stamina) = 12 EN. Free Action [Skill] | Grappling Familiar (CD 0/5) Free Action [Item] | Crystal of Divine Light ID #223863 | BD: 10 (Crit +3, Holy +24, Weak Spot). DMG (15*48=720-75=645) to Terra Firma. Assault Mode triggered. F-Stun applied. Freyd takes double damage until his next turn. Freyd | HP: 1357/1357 | EN: 144/156 (156-12) | DMG: 24 | MIT: 105 | EVA: 6 | ACC: 6 | BH: 64 | LD: 6 | FLN: 16 | HLY: 16 | REC: 8 | V.D.: 129 Foyle | HP: 20/20 | EN: 20/20 | DMG: 2 | ACC: 2 Jeeves | HP: 20/20 | EN: 20/20 | DMG: 7 | ACC: 5 | LD: 3 Quip | HP: 220/220 | EN: 40/40 | DMG: 14 | MIT: 14 | ACC: 5 | ENV.O: 8 | PARA | THRNS: 9 | V.O.: 22 (3,0,0,0) Terra Firma | HP: 305/950 | DMG: 300 | MIT: 150 | ACC: 1 | EVA: 4 (0) | F.Stun (0/3) | STUNNED (950-645) Move Swiftly | This boss is impervious to benefits provided by the Concentration skill. Additionally, all players suffer a -1 penalty to BD when attacking this boss. Hard-Scaled | Paralysis, Paralytic Venom, and Freeze are ineffectual against this boss. Deaf | This mob has no ears, and therefore is immune to the effects of debuff songs. Weak Spots | On a Player's natural BD of 9 or 10 when attacking this creature, they will gain 50% Phase for that attack. This does not stack with the Phase enhancement. Assault Mode | If a Player has exploited one of Terra Firma's <<Weak Spots>> during the battle, Terra Firma will activate <<Assault Mode>>. On an LD of 11+, this mob will identify stealthed Players. Its ACC and EVA will swap for the duration of its attack, then revert to normal. It will gain 50% Phase on a BD of 9, and 100% Phase on a BD of 10 or higher. BD modifiers such as ACC can activate these Phase attributes. Edited August 3 by Freyd Link to post Share on other sites
Foyle 0 Posted August 2 #6 Share Posted August 2 (edited) Taking the Whisper's devastation as an appropriate signal, Foyle descended into the bowl and moved to a supporting position, far enough back to be ready but not provoke any undue ire. Weapon held in a high guard, he knew he'd fare poorly if it came his way. Fortunately, the mob appeared dazed and struggled to right itself from Freyd's initial pummeling. "Ready captain. Standing by for your orders." A raised fist signaled for him to hold firm. A nod matched the creaking of his leather gloves as he tightened the grip on his weapon. Foyle's keen eyes mapped out the enemy's possible lines of attack and how best to counter them. If things went sideways, he'd have several plays at the ready. "It's going to roll left and attempt to flank us." While he lacked the raw might of his fellows, Foyle's past combat experience could read an enemy's intent with remarkable precision, even in this digital world remained largely alien to him. *** Spoiler Post Action: Foyle takes no action. Freyd | HP: 1357/1357 | EN: 144/156 | DMG: 24 | MIT: 105 | EVA: 6 | ACC: 6 | BH: 64 | LD: 6 | FLN: 16 | HLY: 16 | REC: 8 | V.D.: 129 Foyle | HP: 20/20 | EN: 20/20 | DMG: 2 | ACC: 2 Jeeves | HP: 20/20 | EN: 20/20 | DMG: 7 | ACC: 5 | LD: 3 Quip | HP: 220/220 | EN: 40/40 | DMG: 14 | MIT: 14 | ACC: 5 | ENV.O: 8 | PARA | THRNS: 9 | V.O.: 22 (3,0,0,0) Terra Firma | HP: 305/950 | DMG: 300 | MIT: 150 | ACC: 1 | EVA: 4 | F.Stun (0/3) | STUNNED Move Swiftly | This boss is impervious to benefits provided by the Concentration skill. Additionally, all players suffer a -1 penalty to BD when attacking this boss. Hard-Scaled | Paralysis, Paralytic Venom, and Freeze are ineffectual against this boss. Deaf | This mob has no ears, and therefore is immune to the effects of debuff songs. Weak Spots | On a Player's natural BD of 9 or 10 when attacking this creature, they will gain 50% Phase for that attack. This does not stack with the Phase enhancement. Assault Mode | If a Player has exploited one of Terra Firma's <<Weak Spots>> during the battle, Terra Firma will activate <<Assault Mode>>. On an LD of 11+, this mob will identify stealthed Players. Its ACC and EVA will swap for the duration of its attack, then revert to normal. It will gain 50% Phase on a BD of 9, and 100% Phase on a BD of 10 or higher. BD modifiers such as ACC can activate these Phase attributes. Edited August 3 by Foyle Link to post Share on other sites
Jeeves 0 Posted August 2 #7 Share Posted August 2 (edited) Jotting down several notes, recording his initial observations, Jeeves snapped his log book shut the moment he saw Foyle jump in. Had he missed the signal? The various codes of conduct and combat signals still largely eluded his grasp. Whereas the older scout simply jumped and tumbled onto the sand, Jeeves' shorter status and lack of athleticism made that unviable. "They could just have provided a ladder," he muttered under his breath. "Pretty sure sharks can't climb." Tethering a rope to a solid outcrop, he lowered himself down slowly but surely, making sure not to jostle any sensitive equipment along the way. Dusting himself off once her reached the bottom proved futile. The wind alone tossed about too much sand to bother with trying to keep himself clean. Wiping off his goggles, he was grateful to have them on to help keep it out of his eyes. "Hopefully we're sheltered from any sandstorms in this area." *** Spoiler Post Action: Foyle takes no action. Freyd | HP: 1357/1357 | EN: 144/156 | DMG: 24 | MIT: 105 | EVA: 6 | ACC: 6 | BH: 64 | LD: 6 | FLN: 16 | HLY: 16 | REC: 8 | V.D.: 129 Foyle | HP: 20/20 | EN: 20/20 | DMG: 2 | ACC: 2 Jeeves | HP: 20/20 | EN: 20/20 | DMG: 7 | ACC: 5 | LD: 3 Quip | HP: 220/220 | EN: 40/40 | DMG: 14 | MIT: 14 | ACC: 5 | ENV.O: 8 | PARA | THRNS: 9 | V.O.: 22 (3,0,0,0) Terra Firma | HP: 305/950 | DMG: 300 | MIT: 150 | ACC: 1 | EVA: 4 (0) | F.Stun (0/3) | STUNNED Move Swiftly | This boss is impervious to benefits provided by the Concentration skill. Additionally, all players suffer a -1 penalty to BD when attacking this boss. Hard-Scaled | Paralysis, Paralytic Venom, and Freeze are ineffectual against this boss. Deaf | This mob has no ears, and therefore is immune to the effects of debuff songs. Weak Spots | On a Player's natural BD of 9 or 10 when attacking this creature, they will gain 50% Phase for that attack. This does not stack with the Phase enhancement. Assault Mode | If a Player has exploited one of Terra Firma's <<Weak Spots>> during the battle, Terra Firma will activate <<Assault Mode>>. On an LD of 11+, this mob will identify stealthed Players. Its ACC and EVA will swap for the duration of its attack, then revert to normal. It will gain 50% Phase on a BD of 9, and 100% Phase on a BD of 10 or higher. BD modifiers such as ACC can activate these Phase attributes. Edited August 3 by Jeeves Link to post Share on other sites
Quip 0 Posted August 2 #8 Share Posted August 2 (edited) "Bahahahaha! Ye git him, Freyd! Crakin' yin. Noo tis mah turn!" Leaping recklessly off the cliff wall, Quip brought her axe down with remarkable heft, actually managing to find a chink in Terra's Firma'sd armor and bite deep enough to take a meaningful chunk out of its health. "Take that, ye needle-nosed aquatic ant eater!" She hacked at its hide several more times, failing to deal any additional damage, before Freyd finally hauled her back. Just in time, too, as the beast gradually roused itself from its stupor, righting itself and baring rows upon rows of sinister-looking teeth towards the lot of them. "Ooooh! Sae scary. Does sharky waant some chum chum? Come 'n' git it, fatso!" Quip's green eyes flared with a hint of madness mixed with courage, as if she was completely unaware of the danger she might be in if she somehow managed to taunt its attention away from their tank. Freyd merely shook his cowl in the background. Spoiler "Bahahahaha! You got him, Freyd! Nice one. Now it's my turn!" "Take that, you needle-nosed aquatic ant eater!" "Ooooh! So scary. Does sharky want some chum chum? Come and get it, fatso!" *** Quip's Action: Spoiler Post Action | ST-I (x12, 12 EN): 12 EN Free Action | None ID #223864 | BD: 9 (Crit +1, Weak Spot). DMG (12*15=225-75=150) to Terra Firma. ENV-O applied. Freyd | HP: 1357/1357 | EN: 144/156 | DMG: 24 | MIT: 105 | EVA: 6 | ACC: 6 | BH: 64 | LD: 6 | FLN: 16 | HLY: 16 | REC: 8 | V.D.: 129 Foyle | HP: 20/20 | EN: 20/20 | DMG: 2 | ACC: 2 Jeeves | HP: 20/20 | EN: 20/20 | DMG: 7 | ACC: 5 | LD: 3 Quip | HP: 220/220 | EN: 28/40 (40-12) | DMG: 14 | MIT: 14 | ACC: 5 | ENV.O: 8 | PARA | THRNS: 9 | V.O.: 22 (3,0,0,2) Terra Firma | HP: 155/950 | DMG: 300 | MIT: 150 | ACC: 1 | EVA: 4 (0) | F.Stun (0/3) | ENV-O 8 (0/3) | STUNNED (305-150) Move Swiftly | This boss is impervious to benefits provided by the Concentration skill. Additionally, all players suffer a -1 penalty to BD when attacking this boss. Hard-Scaled | Paralysis, Paralytic Venom, and Freeze are ineffectual against this boss. Deaf | This mob has no ears, and therefore is immune to the effects of debuff songs. Weak Spots | On a Player's natural BD of 9 or 10 when attacking this creature, they will gain 50% Phase for that attack. This does not stack with the Phase enhancement. Assault Mode | If a Player has exploited one of Terra Firma's <<Weak Spots>> during the battle, Terra Firma will activate <<Assault Mode>>. On an LD of 11+, this mob will identify stealthed Players. Its ACC and EVA will swap for the duration of its attack, then revert to normal. It will gain 50% Phase on a BD of 9, and 100% Phase on a BD of 10 or higher. BD modifiers such as ACC can activate these Phase attributes. Enemy's Action: Spoiler Terra Firma takes 8 damage from ENV-O Terra Firma is stunned. No action. Stun fades. Freyd | HP: 1357/1357 | EN: 144/156 | DMG: 24 | MIT: 105 | EVA: 6 | ACC: 6 | BH: 64 | LD: 6 | FLN: 16 | HLY: 16 | REC: 8 | V.D.: 129 Foyle | HP: 20/20 | EN: 20/20 | DMG: 2 | ACC: 2 Jeeves | HP: 20/20 | EN: 20/20 | DMG: 7 | ACC: 5 | LD: 3 Quip | HP: 220/220 | EN: 28/40 (40-12) | DMG: 14 | MIT: 14 | ACC: 5 | ENV.O: 8 | PARA | THRNS: 9 | V.O.: 22 (3,0,0,2) Terra Firma | HP: 147/950 | DMG: 300 | MIT: 150 | ACC: 1 | EVA: 4 | F.Stun Imm (1/3) | ENV-O 8 (1/3) | STUNNED (155-8) Move Swiftly | This boss is impervious to benefits provided by the Concentration skill. Additionally, all players suffer a -1 penalty to BD when attacking this boss. Hard-Scaled | Paralysis, Paralytic Venom, and Freeze are ineffectual against this boss. Deaf | This mob has no ears, and therefore is immune to the effects of debuff songs. Weak Spots | On a Player's natural BD of 9 or 10 when attacking this creature, they will gain 50% Phase for that attack. This does not stack with the Phase enhancement. Assault Mode | If a Player has exploited one of Terra Firma's <<Weak Spots>> during the battle, Terra Firma will activate <<Assault Mode>>. On an LD of 11+, this mob will identify stealthed Players. Its ACC and EVA will swap for the duration of its attack, then revert to normal. It will gain 50% Phase on a BD of 9, and 100% Phase on a BD of 10 or higher. BD modifiers such as ACC can activate these Phase attributes. Edited August 3 by Quip Link to post Share on other sites
Freyd 0 Posted August 2 Author #9 Share Posted August 2 (edited) Calling Persi off and clearing the path for his follow-up, the best option was to strike swiftly and finish the fight as quickly as possible. He had to grab Quip and yank her back to provide the necessary opening, dodging around her wild weapon swings, which were proving to be fruitless after her initial success. Still, at least she'd managed to contribute something. That alone was remarkable against such a powerful mob. "Stand clear" he ordered, as Terra Firma fully recovered and made ready to charge the party. Taking a chance, the chose to rush it first, driving his fist forward with as much sword-art induced power as he could manage, swapping out his weapon mid-strike for a modicum of added certainty. Fortunately, his fist fractured the thing's snout and passed straight through, the rest of the quest boss' muscled form shattering as the ripple wave of his force from his strike traveled through its meaty body. *** Spoiler Freyd regains +4 EN CD 12 (+8 REC proc) ID #223865 Cooldowns: Grappling Familiar (1/5) Post Action | AoE-II (x18, 14 EN, +2 shift, +2/hit): 18 EN - (Rested 1/2; Stamina) = 15 EN. Free Action [skill] | Quick change Samael's Pride for Hope's Covenent - Resolve (CD 0/3) ID #223866 | BD:6+6-4-1=7 (hit). DMG (18*24=432-150=282) vs Terra Firma. Dies. Freyd | HP: 1357/1357 | EN: 141/156 (144+4+8-15) | DMG: 24 | MIT: 105 | EVA: 6 | ACC: 7 (inc. AA) | BH: 64 | LD: 6 | | REC: 8 | V.D.: 129 | Phase | Frostbite 40 | V.O. 129 Foyle | HP: 20/20 | EN: 20/20 | DMG: 2 | ACC: 2 Jeeves | HP: 20/20 | EN: 20/20 | DMG: 7 | ACC: 5 | LD: 3 Quip | HP: 220/220 | EN: 28/40 (40-12) | DMG: 14 | MIT: 14 | ACC: 5 | ENV.O: 8 | PARA | THRNS: 9 | V.O.: 22 (5,0,0,2) Terra Firma | HP: 0/950 | DMG: 300 | MIT: 150 | ACC: 1 | EVA: 4 | F.Stun Imm (1/3) | ENV-O 8 (1/3) (147-282) Move Swiftly | This boss is impervious to benefits provided by the Concentration skill. Additionally, all players suffer a -1 penalty to BD when attacking this boss. Hard-Scaled | Paralysis, Paralytic Venom, and Freeze are ineffectual against this boss. Deaf | This mob has no ears, and therefore is immune to the effects of debuff songs. Weak Spots | On a Player's natural BD of 9 or 10 when attacking this creature, they will gain 50% Phase for that attack. This does not stack with the Phase enhancement. Assault Mode | If a Player has exploited one of Terra Firma's <<Weak Spots>> during the battle, Terra Firma will activate <<Assault Mode>>. On an LD of 11+, this mob will identify stealthed Players. Its ACC and EVA will swap for the duration of its attack, then revert to normal. It will gain 50% Phase on a BD of 9, and 100% Phase on a BD of 10 or higher. BD modifiers such as ACC can activate these Phase attributes. Loot Terra Firma: ID #223977 | LD: 19+6+1=26 | CD: 5 +4 materials (+4 CD/LD odd) 9500 col (HP[950]*10 - incl. +7 from roll T4 Perfect Weapon 223977a T4 Perfect Weapon 223977b T4 Perfect Weapon 223977c Edited August 3 by Freyd Link to post Share on other sites
Foyle 0 Posted August 2 #10 Share Posted August 2 (edited) Foyle moved to his captain's side, nodding his approval and thanks before hacking downward with his blade, ensuring that it had been 'bloodied' in battle, if only in some token way. Expectations would be satisfied. "You handled that with surprising ease and grace. Is it always defeated so quickly." Freyd's glance signaled that they had been fortunate in the speed of their encounter before drifting towards Quip, who sat giggling madly as she sprayed the vanishing bits of boss high into the air with glee. Pursed lips prevented any further complaints from airing. Their goal had been achieved. Foyle simply smirked and nodded his understanding. "As glad as I am that it fell so quickly, it might have been more useful to see it fight longer." A system message appeared, signaling to the three trainees that they had cleared the requirements and unlocked a new extra skill. "I stand corrected. Maybe it was just long enough." Edited August 3 by Foyle Link to post Share on other sites
Jeeves 0 Posted August 2 #11 Share Posted August 2 (edited) Not that he'd been especially eager to engage the rabid monstrosity they'd been dragged here to fight, but even Jeeves was a taken aback by the efficiency of its demise. Eyebrows perched high over his goggles, he simply stared, aghast, as the thing disintegrated into a pile of confetti mere seconds after the battle had begun. "How did...? What hap...? Where did...?" Freyd chuckled at his staccato of false starts. Even Foyle seemed mildly amused, though he remained more sympathetic in bearing. "Is it always like this?!" "No. Not usually," Freyd responded, stretching out after the intensity of their brief encounter. "We go lucky is all." The same log book Jeeves had only just tucked away was back in his hands moments later, the diminutive academic scribbling away like a muse had just landed on his shoulder and decided to nest there. Already breaking down the math in his head, the boy was playing out mental scenarios that could see the tactics modified for even greater effect, the barest hints of a smile peeking out at the corners of his thinly pressed lips. Edited August 3 by Jeeves Link to post Share on other sites
Quip 0 Posted August 2 #12 Share Posted August 2 (edited) "Did ye see! Ah smote that sucker, richt in th' sideways bahookie it pretended wis tis geggy 'n' split th' sucker wide open. Weel... Mair open." Quip held up a shark tooth, likely actually discarded or sprinkled around the arena by the system apart from combat to provide a sense of authenticity, but nothing could convince her she hadn't cleaved it straight from the beasts mouth. Besides, none of her companions even had the heart to try. "That wis sae muckle fin! Wull it respawn soon? Kin we dae it again? Hauld yer horses... Didnae ye bring me 'ere afore Freyd?" The sparkle in her green eyes faded. 'There it is', the Whisper thought to himself. The penny had finally dropped. "Goddamn it. A've awready dane this quest!" Her face began to fill with deep crimson, feeling like she'd been tricked, when the system provided timely announcement of her skill unlock. Instantly, a potentially explosive situation diffused, and she was happy as a sand clam once again. Spoiler "DID YOU SEE! I smote that sucker, right in the sideways arse it pretended was its mouth and split the sucker wide open. Well... more open." "That was so much fun! Will it respawn soon? Can we do it again? Wait... didn't you bring me here before Freyd?" "Goddamn it. I've already done this quest!" Edited August 3 by Quip Link to post Share on other sites
Freyd 0 Posted August 2 Author #13 Share Posted August 2 (edited) This was the best part of the sharkbait program: the aftermath. Crossing his arms in front of him, Freyd just leaned against the arena wall, watching and listening as bonding occurred. They didn't need to have actually been in danger, merely sharing the experience in some way was often enough to bring a group of players together. Foyle figured it out almost immediately, a certain sparkle in the old man's dull grey eyes signaling approval. Jeeves was in full blown manic mode, as was Quip. It was strangely amusing to see how their approaches so differed from each other, yet they would see themselves as teammates nonetheless. "Lady and gentlemen, welcome to the Wobbegong." He grinned widely as three confused faces turned his way, none of them taking in his meaning. That was deliberate. The new squad he was forming wasn't meant to be easily spotted or understood. Just like the wobbegong shark, it relied on stealth and subtlety to achieve it aims, striking with quick decisive force only when and as required. A rapid response team, so to speak. O&I would have need of their services, once the idea was fully mature. For now, he was content to nurture his little experiment and see how it developed. Edited August 3 by Freyd Link to post Share on other sites
Foyle 0 Posted August 2 #14 Share Posted August 2 (edited) Foyle arched a fuzzy white eyebrow, unsure of what to make of the statement. "Forgive me, captain, but I'm not familiar with the term. Is this something I should know or understand?" Worry soared that he'd just been hit with more techie/gamer jargon or slang which the majority of players throughout Aincrad used with frustrating regularity. "Is that a different name for the beast you've just slain? I know that many creatures in this world are called by different pseudonyms, but can't say I've heard that one before." Thankfully, the others seemed just as confused by the reference, easing his own embarrassment. Neither of them had any greater clue what Freyd meant than he did. It was a refreshing change of pace. "Is there some sort of symbolic connection to what just occurred here? I confess, I'm at a loss to understand." Bowing humbly, Foyle waited for his captain to explain. Edited August 3 by Foyle Link to post Share on other sites
Jeeves 0 Posted August 2 #15 Share Posted August 2 (edited) "Isn't that some type of shark?" Quip and Foyle stood stunned. Even Freyd was surprised at the young man's awareness of the term, it being deliberately obscure. People tended to think he didn't know things, or was much younger than he seemed, because of his youthful appearance and small stature. He'd come across the species and the term while in a port aboard ship with Miri and Quaestor, at least as they were both known here. "It's a sneakier type, like a stealth shark, as opposed to the more overtly dangerous or violent types, like the tiger shark or great white." His goggles, still in place, made him look like he was wearing Urkel glasses. His stylus quickly jotted down the term without him even looking at it, the rest of him wanting to shrink inside himself under everyone else's gazes. "What? I've heard of them before. Is it really that weird?" Edited August 3 by Jeeves Link to post Share on other sites
Quip 0 Posted August 2 #16 Share Posted August 2 (edited) "Jabbe-whatnow?!" Her bushy brow furrowed so deep should could have nearly swallowed it. "What urr ye yammering oan aboot noo, Freyd?" Foyle clearly didn't no either, though he was much politer and more circumspect about it. All of them were taken aback when it was Jeeves who seemed to recognize it first. "well, keek at ye! aren't ye juist th' cleverest font o' boggin' information." She grinned maniacally and wrapped her meaty arm around the small man, tussling his pre-tussed hair even further in a purely Quip sign of affection. The boy looked ready to protest, but merely groaned and accepted his fate. Some fights weren't winnable or worth the effort to bother resisting, and Quip's distinctive affections counted among them. He was smart enough to have spotted that the moment they arrived. "Okay... Sae we're suppose tae be pairt o' th' sneaky shark thing, whitevur that means. Spill it, spoops. A'm waantin' details." Spoiler "What are you yammering on about now, Freyd?" "Well, look at you! Aren't you just the cleverest font of useless information." "Okay... so we're supposed to be part of the sneaky shark thing, whatever that means. Spill it, spoops. I want details." Edited August 3 by Quip Link to post Share on other sites
Freyd 0 Posted August 2 Author #17 Share Posted August 2 (edited) "There's no great conspiracy to it, as enjoyable as that might be. Each of you is a member of Firm Anima, or associated with the guild by proxy. You've also each demonstrated that you can be trusted to care for the common interests of Aincrad's broader player base. That's a resource in short supply, and the very reason the guild exists. While the Assault division takes care of front line battles, I need people I can trust to get shit done behind the scenes. You don't need to be spies, or stealthy-spoopy types, Quip. You just need a willingness to get things done when they need doing, regardless of the odds." Looking each of them in the eye, in turn, Freyd was still smiling and leaning back casually, but his words carried a chord of consequence and meaning that was not so easily dismissed. "I need an answer before we return to Fortaleza. Take your time." He was about to stuff his hands in his pockets, but turned and added a bit of urgency. "Oh, and Terra Firma's respawn timer is not that long, so we should probably move this along." Edited August 3 by Freyd Link to post Share on other sites
Foyle 0 Posted August 2 #18 Share Posted August 2 (edited) "I accept." Foyle's response bore not even the slightest hint of hesitation. He'd already committed. This was merely a formality, so far as he was concerned. His talents as a scout had already proven valuable, especially after that nasty business in Glyndebourne, the overspawn points, and any number of other trouble spots. It only furthered the sense of purpose and comradery he'd already started to feel towards his allies in the guild. "I'll do my best to serve with honor." Freyd's smile faded, nodding his appreciation without the usual false facade, and thankful for the older man's devotion. "Leave the exit path to me. We'll be back in town in no time at all." Ambling up the cliff face with agility no man his age should be capable of managing, Foyle felt his heart soar at the prospect of fulfilling his wish, and possibly even having found the means to help him one day reunite with his granddaughter. Edited August 3 by Foyle Link to post Share on other sites
Jeeves 0 Posted August 2 #19 Share Posted August 2 (edited) "The idea has merit," Jeeves admitted, clearly weighing his options, sucking on the tail end of his stylus, which Freyd had already flagged as one of his tells. "Fine. I'm in, but I'll need access to as much data as possible in order to be of use. The library in the Citadel of the Lost will need to be expanded." "Too obvious," Freyd interrupted. "But I may have another location in mind that could serve much more practically. One might even say it was tailor made for this." Added mystery only sweetened the pot. Jeeves had already committed, but the promise of access to additional resources provided by the Whisper himself? That made it wholly irresistible. "Is there a contract or something?" Freyd just stared at him, waiting for realization to dawn. "Ah. Right. No paper trail. Got it." The Whisper nodded, sending Jeeves on his way. It would take him a minute to get back up the cliff wall, even with Foyle waiting at the top to help him. Edited August 3 by Jeeves Link to post Share on other sites
Quip 0 Posted August 2 #20 Share Posted August 2 (edited) "Are ye nuts?! Ah juist moved oot fae yer hellhole o' a shop a few months ago, 'n' noo yi'll waant tae reel me back in? Whit oan earth made ye think a'd wantae be pairt o' sic a thing? Dingo micht aye need that sense o' order, bit a'm a free spirit 'n' nae aboot tae be chained doon tae some doolally nae knickers spy netwurk. Ye kin hae th' ithers dae that fur ye. Forby, whit th' heck hae ah git that cuid mibeez aye, mibeez naw hulp ye out." "Heart. And a heaping spoonful of muscle. We need both." "Nice huv a go, bit ah ken howfur yer silver tongue wirks, Freyd. Tis nae that easy." Her limbs flailed about frantically, as if sheer gesticulation somehow enhanced her argument, or whatever form of protest she was actually trying to achieve. "There will be boys," Freyd simply replied. Quip suddenly became uncharacteristically muted. He'd found her weak spot. Of course he had. Asshole. "Alright. A'm in." Spoiler "Are you nuts?! I just moved out from your hellhole of a shop a few months ago, and now you want to reel me back in? What on earth made you think I'd want to be part of such a thing? Dingo might still need that sense of order, but I'm a free spirit and not about to be chained down to some crazy commando spy network. You can have the others do that for you. Besides, what the heck have I got that could possibly help you out." "Nice try, but I know how your silver tongue works, Freyd. It's not that easy." "Alright. I'm in." *** Thread Closing: Freyd receives: Freyd splits his looted col between Foyle and Jeeves. 2822 EXP (Word Count [3329/10*17*0.5] + Quest [0]) 423 col (1 page [0] + Loot [0] + Quest [0] + 15% P5 Reward [423]) 4 Materials (Loot [4]) 4x Terra Firma Scale (T3/Unique/Consumable/Single-Use) | +18 Mitigation. This item can stack with other sources and its effect lasts for one thread. | 223990a thru 223990d T4 Perfect Weapon 223977a T4 Perfect Weapon 223977b T4 Perfect Weapon 223977c Foyle receives: 2666 EXP (Word Count [3329/10*1*0.5] + Quest [2500]) 9750 col (1 page [0] + Loot [4750] + Quest [5000]) Unlocks Assault Mode Extra Skill Jeeves receives: 2666 EXP (Word Count [3329/10*1*0.5] + Quest [2500]) 9750 col (1 page [0] + Loot [4750] + Quest [5000]) Unlocks Assault Mode Extra Skill Quip receives: 332 EXP (Word Count [3329/10*2*0.5] + Quest [0]) 400 col (1 page [400] + Loot [0] + Quest [0]) Unlocks Assault Mode Extra Skill Edited August 3 by Quip Link to post Share on other sites
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