[F24 | SP+ST] Alea Iacta Est | <<Incognito Antics: Part 2 - Assassination>>

[Acanthus 0]

<<Storyteller System in effect, Acting as Storyteller>>

Discovering Uso-Tsuki’s plan has done little to lift the spirits of Marsonia. The Chief’s honor guard now works double and triple shifts to ensure the Chief’s safety. The new lieutenant holds constant meetings with the war council to prepare for every uncertainty. The Chief sits in these meetings to pay attention and offers curt advice, but he spends the better part of these meetings deep in thought. You, being the sole reason the information was obtained in the first place, are offered a right-hand seat at the table for the Lieutenant’s plans. He appears to have warmed up to you after your mission, and you find that he asks you for feedback about critical portions of the operation.

The Lieutenant rubs his temples as he speaks. “Let’s review again. Based on Wulfrin’s information, Uso-Tsuki seeks to assassinate the Chief in broad daylight through the use of two deadly enforcers. Upon the Chief’s death,” he glances nervously over, “which will certainly not happen, Uso-Tsuki will sweep in, put down the enforcers, and claim leadership of Marsonia.” The Lieutenant points to a map, identifying the southernmost island in the Marsonian Lagoon. “This is Confluence Isle. Tomorrow evening, we will hold our annual commune with Jandis, the god of fate and choice at his shrine. To the Marsonians, the annual communes are a symbol of our connection to the gods, and these rituals—performed by the Chief—mark our favor with them. The people of Marsonia are encouraged to attend and witness the ceremony.” The Lieutenant’s face grew dark. “Many believe that problems during the ritual mark the god’s dissatisfaction with the current ruler. Were Uso-Tsuki to succeed, he would have little trouble convincing the people that his coup was the will of Jandis. It would not be the first time in our island’s history that rule was passed with bloody hands.”

The Lieutenant gazes around the war council, locking eyes with each man and woman before landing on you. “To be clear, here is our current plan: we continue the ceremony as planned so that Uso-Tsuki doesn’t know we’re on to him. When he shows his face, we will have the hidden honor guard surround the shrine. With the guards present, I have no doubt we can lure the snake from his hiding place and cut off its head once and for all.”

The Chief appears distant. You can tell much weighs on his mind, but he keeps his burdens to himself. After a long silence, he looks at you. “Wulfrin. I understand this is not your fight. But we need your help more than ever. For Uso-Tsuki to plan something so brazen… I fear that this fight may take everything we have. Will you journey with us tomorrow to the Shrine of Jandis, and stop Uso?”

Spoiler

Acanthus (acting as storyteller) | Lvl. 24 | Tier 3

 

Edited September 1 by Acanthus

[Wulfrin 0]

Wulfrin sat in the meeting content to let the NPCs have their chat. He had gone through the scenario multiple times in his head to the point he was confident he could execute his part flawlessly. As a player though, it was easy to pick him out at the table. He was rapidly stuffing his face with an unhealthy amount of consumables in preparation. He maintained eye contact with each speaker as they spoke in turn, his familiar Solaris waiting intently for the order to strike. Wulfrin could feel the disdain from the Lieutenant as he doubted Wulfrin's ability to protect their chief.

"My fight or not," Wulfrin replied as he downed the last of his current feast. "You came to me for assistance and I am more than capable of pulling my weight. Yes, I will travel with you to the ritual site. The moment the enforcers make themselves known, they will have to face Icinigdeath's cold embrace. Trust me I've faced way worse than a couple of goons."

Wulfrin stood up and made his way to the chief. His Fallen Angel Garb seemed to cling to the shadows at the edge of the room as he stood next to the chief. 

"By my sword," Wulfrin said as he placed his hand on his frigid weapon. "Come tomorrow evening, the usurpers wont be but a memory. A memory that cements your chief's rule for the rest of their lifetime."

* * *

Protein 2 Consumed - Breakfast Fry
Evasion 2 Consumed [Filled] - Smores
Accuracy 2 Consumed - Creme Brulee
Damage 3 Consumed - Liquor of Light
Mitigation 3 Consumed - Bingsu
Field Rations 1 Consumed
Toxic Venom 1 Consumed - Great Basilisk Oolong Tea
Loot Die Consumed - Jackpot Pretzel

Wulfrin | HP: 784/784 | EN: 104/104 | DMG: 28 | MIT:98 | ACC:7 | AA | EVA:3 | BH:17 | REC: 8 | FRB: 40 | TXC-V: 32 | FRZ: 64 | LD:6

Spoiler

Name: Wulfrin
True Tier: 4
Level: 33
Paragon Level: 0
HP: 784/784
EN: 104/104

Stats:
Damage: 28
Mitigation: 98
Accuracy: 7
Evasion: 3
Battle Healing: 17
Loot Die: 6
Stealth Rating: -2
AA REC: 8
FRB: 40 TXC-V: 32
FRZ: 64
Equipped Gear:
Weapon/Armor/Trinket:
- Icingdeath | T4 Demonic Straight Sword | Freeze 2 | Frostbite | AA
Armor/Trinket:
- Fallen Angel Garb | T4 Demonic LA | MIT 2 | REC 2
Shield/Armor/Trinket:
- Dioscuri | Perfect T1 Trinket | ACC 3

Combat Mastery:
- Combat Mastery: Damage R3

Combat Shift:
- TECH Shift

Familiar Skill:
- Rending Familiar

Custom Skill:
-

Skills:
- Battle Healing R2
- Charge
- Energist
- Light Armor R5
- Searching R3
- Straight Sword R5

Extra Skills:
- Concentration
- Forgotten King's Authority
- Frozen Hide
- Survival

Inactive Extra Skills:

Addons:
- Ferocity
- Precision
- Resolve
- Stamina

Mods:
- Meticulous
- Night Vision

Inactive Mods:

Battle Ready Inventory:
- Imugi's Inspiration | Mass Healing x5
- Popcorn | T4 Vitality 2 x5
- TP Crystals x5

Housing Buffs:
- Bedroom: -1 energy cost for the first two expenditures of each combat
- Bathroom: The first time you would suffer DoT damage in a thread, reduce damage taken from DoT each turn by 20% (rounded down)
- Basic Workshop: +2 EXP per crafting attempt
- Basic Kitchen: Increase the effectiveness of a single food item consumed in a thread by +1 T1 slot. This can exceed normal Cook enhancement caps. Ex: A perfect T2 MIT food gives 35 MIT instead of 30.
- Storage Closet: +1 Battle Ready Inventory Slot
- Dining Room: Turn 2 identical food items (same quality, tier, & enhancements) into a Lesser Feast. A Lesser Feast contains 4 portions of the food items sacrificed. Lesser Feasts created this way cannot be used outside of the thread they are created. Limit 1 item created per thread.
- Living Room: Increases out of combatHP regen by (5 * Tier HP) and decreases full energy regen to 2 Out of Combat Posts.
- Attic (Storage): +5% bonus col from monster kills and treasure chests
- Fishing Pond: +2 Fishing EXP per fishing attempt
- Basement: 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:

Scents of the Wild Totem:

Wedding Ring:

Crafting Profession:
- Blacksmith[771exp] R7
Gathering Profession:
- Fishing[378exp] R4

 

Edited September 1 by Wulfrin

[Acanthus 0]

The Chief nods, reassured by your confidence. “Thank you. A bittersweet memory he will be.” The Chief’s eyes mist over for the briefest of moments before his vision becomes steel. “But we will all play our part, and do what we must. For Marsonia.”

With that, the lieutenant calls the meeting to an end. He makes an effort to seek you out and offer a firm handshake. “I apologize for my previous behavior. When the Chief asked that we request help from outsiders, I was doubtful. But he was right, as always.” The Lieutenant turns around to make sure the Chief is out of earshot. “And he is troubled by this confrontation for a number of reasons. I share this in confidence, but the Chief raised Uso-Tsuki like his own son. I have no doubt that when the time comes, the Chief can—and will—fight him. But I believe it would ease his heart if someone else would strike the final blow.”

He hands you a key. “You are welcome to stay in the Palace tonight. We have an early start tomorrow—although the ceremony takes place at sunset, we will leave in the morning to ensure our soldiers have plenty of time to hide. Meet me down at the docks just after sunrise, and we will take a boat to Confluence Isle together. I look forward to working with you personally this time.”

[Wulfrin 0]

"Thanks," Wulfrin said as he took the key from the lieutenant. "Apology accepted lieutenant. Best get some rest yourself. Your men will need a leader that is at the top of their game."

Wulfrin patted the guard on his shoulder as he turned to leave. It only took a few minutes to find his room, SAO being what it was made that rather easy. Once inside he removed his armor and sword changing into more comfortable attire. With a few swipes of his menus he brought up the message feature and hastily sent a message to his fiancé.

TO: KnightessCiela FROM: Wulfrin Sorry I wont be making it home tonight. My trip to floor 24 is taking me a bit longer than I had expected it to. I'll keep you updated on when I'm expecting to be back.

Wulfrin dismissed his menus and lay back on the plush bed provided to him. It was softer than the one he had at home, but that was to be expected. He hadn't exactly splurged on the furniture. Of it weren't for the fact that he needed so much space for his workshop and the fishing pond nearby, he probably wouldn't have gotten as big of a house either. Wulfrin finally cleared his mind enough to sleep, but the pressure was getting to him. Sure they were just NPCs, but Wulfrin had basically just swore to them he'd lay down his life for them and in a game like this one, that meant a lot.

Wulfrin woke the next morning rested and ready for combat. The "sun" was only just beginning to shed light upon the floor when Wulfrin made his way to the docks. The lieutenant had yet to arrive, so Wulfrin clad in his full combat get up. Simply sat on a stack of crates and waited for the guard to arrive. He was taking a page out of Uso-Tsuki's book and playing a hired mercenary. With any luck, the assailants would take the bate and move on him before the chief. If not, Wulfrin had a little surprise in store for them. He looked up to the sky where Solaris was stretching his wings in his morning flight. His familiar seemed as eager as he did.

* * *

Vanity tag: @KnightessCiela

[Acanthus 0]

Not long after you arrive, the lieutenant walks out to the docks, also sporting his full battle regalia. It appears more ornate than the armor he was wearing the day before. The helm was patterned with coral motifs, and the iron armor was polished to a shine.

“It’s for the ceremony,” he explained. “The annual communes with the gods are important, high-visibility occasions. All the more reason for Uso-Tsuki to attack so brazenly.” He gestured over to a large, pristine trireme in dock. “We’ll be taking her over to confluence isle. I believe you’ve already met our captain.”

As if on cue, Ben-Goshi leaned over the boat’s rail and waved. “Wulfrin! Long time, no see! We got a bit of an ‘upgrade’ for this mission,” he huffed. “She’s no Pearl Diver, but the lieutenant was adamant that we all arrive in style. I’d much prefer my old ship, but I can sail anything.” The lieutenant turned to you. “The Legacy is crewed by my closest friends and trusted guards. As far as anyone but the Chief is aware, this ship is not going anywhere for the next week. We’re ready to sail on your word.”

Far out on the ocean, the Lieutenant requests your time. Should you choose to respond, he asks for any final pointers or suggestions to counter Uso-Tsuki’s coup.

[Wulfrin 0]

"Right," Wulfrin said dismissively to the captain. "We need to get moving. We have a schedule to keep."

Wulfrin climbed aboard the ship, Solaris took over the crows nest a top the tallest mast. Wulfrin stood at the prow overlooking the waters directly a head of them. He continued to run over the plan many more times in his head before finally addressing the lieutenant.

"I can handle the enforcers," Wulfrin said with his eyes fixated on the horizon. "Your men need to keep the people out of the line of fire. More importantly they need to keep Uso-Tsuki from fleeing. From what I've gathered he's a coward that wont fight until he his cornered. Once I've dispatched his lackies, I'll be hot on your heels. I'm only going to stop long enough to tend to any serious wounds otherwise it's full steam ahead. Don't confront them head on."

The rest of the trip was silent. No one uttered a word as the tension became palpable. Everyone had a part to play in this ever growing charade and they new it was almost curtain time.

[Acanthus 0]

Anticipation hangs heavy over the ceremony. Nature seems ill at ease; the normally raucous sound of animal life from the forests beyond has dulled to near silence. Heavy gray clouds approach Confluence Isle with the promise of storms, and the people in attendance are already scouting for cover. For the most part, the audience still remains eager for the ceremony, but their anticipation is colored with excitement and hope for a spectacle.

The ceremony promised exactly that. Although rituals celebrating Jandis are often more reserved than those of the other gods, they are no less an event for it. Droves of musicians and orators prepare the crowd for the Chief’s commune with thrumming music and long tales of epic poetry. The audience is enraptured by the festivities, but the guards are keenly alert. The Chief’s honor guard hides in the treeline, just out of sight. You and the lieutenant did an excellent job finding places for them to hide: if you hadn’t been with them earlier in the day while they chose their hiding spots, they would be as good as invisible.

The music dies down—it is time for the ceremony to begin. The Chief climbs a large stone dias, behind which is a massive stone relief depicting the various myths and deeds of the god of fate and choice. Approaching a wooden altar, he takes a small bowl of water, and lifts it high. His voice begins to take on a steady intonation, as if lulled into a trance. “We come before you as supplicant, Jaundice, master of fate and director of choice…” His voice carries over the crowd, and they seem enraptured by his words. The Chief continues speaking for quite some time. Enough time that the lieutenant starts to shift uncomfortably. The look on his face says it all: something should have happened by now.

Purotekutā, I believe we are interrupting something, are we not?

Why yes, Difendā, we are. That is the point, after all.

Emerging from the crowd are two slender figures. Both figures carry katanas, though one figure is bedecked in heavy armor, while the other only sports robes. The crowd has parted from them; many begin to flee. Both enforcers keep their eyes fixed on the dias.

The lieutenant draws his scimitar and prepares to charge the two, but his eyes lock on something in the distance, and begin to widen. Following his gaze, you see that Uso-Tsuki stands at the back of the crowd, surrounded by scores of his own men. Some of the audience members begin casting off cloaks, revealing armor and weapons. The lieutenant gritted his teeth. “I don’t know how they infiltrated the audience, but that has complicated things. Wulfrin, It’s up to you to keep the enforcers off of the Chief. I’ll rally the honor guard and see about trapping Uso-Tsuki. We can handle the rabble too—it’s up to you to take those two out.”

[Wulfrin 0]

"Leave the two big boys to me," Wulfrin said as he pulled his hood up, his Fallen Angel Garb in full display now that showtime was upon them. "Get the people to safety, Uso-Tsuki from fleeing too far, and keep the mooks off me. It's time to make a name for ourselves."

Wulfrin began to make his way out of the trees and towards the Cheif's location. Seemingly to appear form no where, thanks to his armor's special properties. It didn't take long for Wulfrin to position himself between the chief and his assailants.

"Don't you know it's bad luck to interrupt worship rituals?" Wulfrin spoke with a sarcastic tone his hands in his deep pockets and letting Icingdeath leak its frigid mists. "Let alone the moral implications. That's where I come into this picture. I'm your bad luck."

Wulfrin drew his blade and began to step down the steps from the dias until there was just enough space for a well placed rush would close the distance. After a tense stare down, Wulfrin drew Icingdeath and took an offensive stance. Solaris swooped down next to him and the two shared an almost instantaneous mental plan between the two of them. Wulfrin sent out a shrill whistle and combat erupted on the temple steps.

Solaris charged at Purotekuta, in an attempt to give Wulfrin some breathing room. Wulfrin though, had a different target. Difenda was in the heavy armor and would likely be the defensive wall of the two. Wulfrin was an expert at toppling walls like him. A vibrant emerald light began to shine from his blade as he charged the heavily armored combatant, putting all of his virtual weight and momentum into the strike. As the blade collided with Difenda's armor, sickly green cracks began to form. That and Difenda ended up flatt on his ass tumbling down the stairs with a large chunk of his HP depleted. 

"Now," Wulfrin said as he turned his attention to both simultaneously. "I'm only gong to say this once. Stand down before I embarrass you in front of your boss."

* * *

Spoiler

Recovery: Not Needed
Wulfrin is at Full Energy
Cooldowns: Rending Familiar (1/5), Charge (1/3)

Post Action | Charge: [x16]Tech-D (15 En + 8 Charge) = 23 EN -2 Stamina -1 Rested (2/2) = 20 EN
Free Action | Rending Familiar -> Purotekuta

ID: 229422 | BD 8-1+7=14 Hit | CD 8 | (28+3) 31 * 16 = 496 - 150 = 346 DMG to Defenda. Shatter applied to target. Rend applied to Purotekuta. ST-B locked.

Wulfrin | HP: 784/784 | EN: 104/104 | DMG: 28 | MIT:98 | ACC:7 | AA | EVA:3 | BH:17 | REC: 8 | FRB: 40 | TXC-V: 32 | FRZ: 64 | LD:6

[0] Difendā | HP: 154/500 (500-346) | DMG: 75 | MIT: 150 130 | ACC: 2 | EVA: -1 | SHATTER 1 (0/3)

• Defender | <<Difendā>> fulfills the role that his name implies. He will defend <<Uso-Tsuki>> and <<Purotekutā>> by taking damage for any attacks issued against them while he is still alive.
• Wild Charge | Starting with his first turn, <<Difendā>> will wildly charge the Player, reducing his BD by -1 for the attack while gaining 25 DMG and stunning the opponent upon hitting. This ability has a 3 turn cooldown, and <<Difendā>> will always use it again as soon as it is available.

[0] Purotekutā | HP: 1000/1000 | DMG: 150 | ACC: 1 | EVA: 2 | Rend 28 (0/3)

• Eagle Eye | <<Purotekutā>> is fully expecting an attack from an enemy. He will always instantly identify a stealthed player, breaking their stealth and negating any auto-hit bonuses.
• Disciplined | Starting after his first turn, <<Purotekutā>> will go into the way of an oncoming successful attack, blocking half of the final damage and delivering half of the blocked damage back to the Player. This damage is mitigatable. <<Purotekutā>> will not reflect any status conditions that may incur during this attack. This ability overrides <<Difendā's>> <<Defender>> ability. This ability has a 4 turn cooldown, and <<Purotekutā>> will always use it again as soon as it is available, though it will only activate against successful attacks.

 

Edited September 2 by Wulfrin

[Acanthus 0]

Your first strike changed Difendā’s demeanor instantly. Any trace of smugness was gone: hatred leaked from every pore of his body. This had become personal.

“One lucky hit, and the pup thinks he is a wolf.” He spit blood on the steps and readied his blade. “Purotekutā, let’s go.”

The two approach as a single unit with a practiced ease that shows their deadliness. But they are no match for you. They swap in and out, feinting for strikes, attempting to land a blow—something, anything. But their attacks fail, again and again.

Purotekutā growls, bleeding from Solaris’ wounds. “The Chief has become so weak that he cannot fight his own battles. Instead he brings an outsider into his business. Uso-Tsuki is right to take the mantle of leadership away from him. Walk away, and you still might live. Even if you make short work of us, you will not fare so well against our master.”
 

Spoiler

 

Monster's Actions
Difendā: Wild Charge -> Wulfrin
229453 | BD 4 + 2 - 3 - 1 = 2. Miss.

Purotekutā: Attack -> Wulfrin
229494 | BD 4 + 1 - 3 = 2. Miss.

<<Purotekutā>> bleeds for 28 damage.

----- End of Round 1 -----

[0] Difendā | HP: 154/500 (500-346) | DMG: 75 | MIT: 150 130 | ACC: 2 | EVA: -1 | SHATTER 1 (1/3) Wild Charge CD (1/3)

• Defender | <<Difendā>> fulfills the role that his name implies. He will defend <<Uso-Tsuki>> and <<Purotekutā>> by taking damage for any attacks issued against them while he is still alive.
• Wild Charge | Starting with his first turn, <<Difendā>> will wildly charge the Player, reducing his BD by -1 for the attack while gaining 25 DMG and stunning the opponent upon hitting. This ability has a 3 turn cooldown, and <<Difendā>> will always use it again as soon as it is available.

[0] Purotekutā | HP: 972/1000 | DMG: 150 | ACC: 1 | EVA: 2 | Rend 28 (1/3)

• Eagle Eye | <<Purotekutā>> is fully expecting an attack from an enemy. He will always instantly identify a stealthed player, breaking their stealth and negating any auto-hit bonuses.
• Disciplined | Starting after his first turn, <<Purotekutā>> will go into the way of an oncoming successful attack, blocking half of the final damage and delivering half of the blocked damage back to the Player. This damage is mitigatable. <<Purotekutā>> will not reflect any status conditions that may incur during this attack. This ability overrides <<Difendā's>> <<Defender>> ability. This ability has a 4 turn cooldown, and <<Purotekutā>> will always use it again as soon as it is available, though it will only activate against successful attacks.

 

•  

Edited September 2 by Acanthus

[Wulfrin 0]

"See," Wulfrin chuckled as he prepared to strike again. "The difference between you and I is I'm not in it for the glory or the money. I couldn't care less if I'm even remembered here after today. No. Today is about proving a point."

Wulfrin's blade cut through the air like a hot knife through butter, only this knife had no sharpness to it. Wulfrin maneuvered his strike in such a way that the flat of Icingdeath's frozen blade to smash into Difenda. As his target burst into an array of fractal motes, his blade continued slamming into Purotekuta's sternum. With a heavy thud the cloth armored katana wielder fell to the ground writhing in pain. Unable to stand, Wulfrin simply held the point of his blade to the fallen warrior's throat.

"Now," Wulfrin said as frosty mist continued to roll of Icingdeath. "Allow me to ask again. Will you back down, or am I going to have to continue to toss you around like a ragdoll?"

Wulfrin continued to stand over his enemy awaiting an answer. His offer was a genuine one, though Wulfrin knew it fell on deaf ears. NPCs have a directive to follow afterall.

* * *

Spoiler

* Note: Wulfrin's energy corrected to account for previous expenditure. Rend timer corrected to 2 instead of 3 *

Recovery: ID: 229456 | CD 9 | +8 En
Wulfrin regains 12 EN
Cooldowns: Rending Familiar (2/5), Charge (2/3)

Post Action | Charge: [x12]Tech-F (11 En + 2/target ) = 15 EN -2 Stamina -1 Rested (1/2) = 12 EN
Free Action | none

ID: 229458 | BD 2-1+7=8 Hit | CD 11 | 28 * 12 = 336 - 150 = 186 DMG to Defenda. Target dies. ST-B unlocked.
ID: 229459 | BD: 7-2+7=12 hit | 28*12 = 336 DMG to Purotekuta. Purotekuta is stunned.

Wulfrin | HP: 784/784 | EN: 84/104 (84+12-12) | DMG: 28 | MIT:98 | ACC:7 | AA | EVA:3 | BH:17 | REC: 8 | FRB: 40 | TXC-V: 32 | FRZ: 64 | LD:6

[1] Difendā | HP: 0/500 (154-186) | DMG: 75 | MIT: 150 130 | ACC: 2 | EVA: -1 | SHATTER 1 (1/3) Wild Charge CD (1/3)

• Defender | <<Difendā>> fulfills the role that his name implies. He will defend <<Uso-Tsuki>> and <<Purotekutā>> by taking damage for any attacks issued against them while he is still alive.
• Wild Charge | Starting with his first turn, <<Difendā>> will wildly charge the Player, reducing his BD by -1 for the attack while gaining 25 DMG and stunning the opponent upon hitting. This ability has a 3 turn cooldown, and <<Difendā>> will always use it again as soon as it is available.

[1] Purotekutā | HP: 636/1000 (972-336) | DMG: 150 | ACC: 1 | EVA: 2 | Rend 28 (1/2) | STUNNED

• Eagle Eye | <<Purotekutā>> is fully expecting an attack from an enemy. He will always instantly identify a stealthed player, breaking their stealth and negating any auto-hit bonuses.
• Disciplined | Starting after his first turn, <<Purotekutā>> will go into the way of an oncoming successful attack, blocking half of the final damage and delivering half of the blocked damage back to the Player. This damage is mitigatable. <<Purotekutā>> will not reflect any status conditions that may incur during this attack. This ability overrides <<Difendā's>> <<Defender>> ability. This ability has a 4 turn cooldown, and <<Purotekutā>> will always use it again as soon as it is available, though it will only activate against successful attacks.

 

 

Edited September 4 by Wulfrin

[Acanthus 0]

From the tip of your blade, Purotekutā’s stare is nothing short of murderous. He gives one last look to his fallen comrade, then struggles to turn his gaze to you. His voice shakes with rage. “Why? Why do you care about any of this? You’re just some traveler—an ignorant vagrant. What do you care about our struggles? What do you know about the chief’s failures? Do you even care?” He fails to force himself up, too weak to strike. “Uso-Tsuki wants what is best for Marsonia. He despises the weakness of the Chief. Year after year, concession after concession, the Chief has relinquished our grasp on the islands of our once great land. All in the name of peace.” Purotekutā spits on your feet. “The old man is delusional. The only true peace is found in power. Power that Marsonia is too scared to wield. Power that Uso-Tsuki seeks, only so he can restore Marsonia to glory. No more pleading with the gods for scraps in these farcical rituals. We will not beg for glory—we will earn it.”

With his remaining strength, Purotekutā forces Icingdeath to press into his throat. Blood wells and freezes on his skin. “Go on, hero. Slay me here; on the steps dedicated to the god of choice.” Venom drips off every word. “I can think of no better death.”
 

Spoiler

 

Monster's Actions
Purotekutā: Stunned.
No action taken.

<<Purotekutā>> bleeds for 28 damage.

----- End of Round 2 -----

[0] Purotekutā | HP: 636/1000| DMG: 150 | ACC: 1 | EVA: 2 | Rend 28 (2/2) Stun Imm. (1/3)

• Eagle Eye | <<Purotekutā>> is fully expecting an attack from an enemy. He will always instantly identify a stealthed player, breaking their stealth and negating any auto-hit bonuses.
• Disciplined | Starting after his first turn, <<Purotekutā>> will go into the way of an oncoming successful attack, blocking half of the final damage and delivering half of the blocked damage back to the Player. This damage is mitigatable. <<Purotekutā>> will not reflect any status conditions that may incur during this attack. This ability overrides <<Difendā's>> <<Defender>> ability. This ability has a 4 turn cooldown, and <<Purotekutā>> will always use it again as soon as it is available, though it will only activate against successful attacks.

 

•  

Edited September 4 by Acanthus

[Wulfrin 0]

Wulfrin grabbed Purotekuta by his robe and tossed him into the air. The venom in his voice had stung. These people fought for a peace found only in tyranny and fear, two things Wulfrin absolutely detested. With the combined force of all his moral stances, Wulfrin soared into the air after his quarry. He unleashed brutal blow after brutal blow before sending his foe rocketing towards the ground. Nova Ascension was a powerful art he only pulled out against dangerous foes. This was an excaption.

"Your boss," Wulfrin said as he stepped towards the small crater his foe lay in. "He wants nothing more than to rule using fear and tyranny. What you fail to realize is that type of rule paints a target on your back."

Wulfrin brought Purotekuta to his feet and stared him down, his crimson eyes shining with a righteous fury. He paced back away from his foe sword lowered as if he was expecting a retaliation. The frigid mist that drifted off of Icingdeath began to coalesce around his form creating something akin to a second suit of armor.

"I have shone you my resolve," Wulfrin said as he faced his opponent daring them to strike him. "Now show me your drive to see this world fall into tyranny. You get one shot to prove your point. Don't waste it."

* * *

Spoiler

Recovery: ID: 229650 | CD 5 | +0 En
Wulfrin regains 4 EN
Cooldowns: Frozen Hide (1/4), Rending Familiar (3/5), Charge (3/3)

Post Action | [x20]ST-B (20 En) = 20 EN -2 Stamina = 18 EN
Free Action | Frozen Hide. 1 Slot of T4 Frost Thorns and 1 Slot of T4 Frost Aura applied to Wulfrin

ID: 229649 | BD 3+7=10 Hit | CD 5 | 28 * 20 = 560 DMG to Purotekutā.

Wulfrin | HP: 784/784 | EN: 70/104 (84+4-18) | DMG: 28 | MIT:98 | ACC:7 | AA | EVA:3 | BH:17 | REC: 8 | FRB: 40 | TXC-V: 32 | FRZ: 64 | LD:6 | F. Thorns 8 (1/1) | Fr. Aura 16 (1/)

[1] Purotekutā | HP: 76/1000 ()| DMG: 150 | ACC: 1 | EVA: 2 | Stun Imm. (1/3)

• Eagle Eye | <<Purotekutā>> is fully expecting an attack from an enemy. He will always instantly identify a stealthed player, breaking their stealth and negating any auto-hit bonuses.
• Disciplined | Starting after his first turn, <<Purotekutā>> will go into the way of an oncoming successful attack, blocking half of the final damage and delivering half of the blocked damage back to the Player. This damage is mitigatable. <<Purotekutā>> will not reflect any status conditions that may incur during this attack. This ability overrides <<Difendā's>> <<Defender>> ability. This ability has a 4 turn cooldown, and <<Purotekutā>> will always use it again as soon as it is available, though it will only activate against successful attacks.

 

Edited September 4 by Wulfrin

[Acanthus 0]

Your powerful blow sends Purotekutā flying off the stairs and into the dirt. He stands with a weakness that belies the conviction in his eyes. “Barbarian,” he says with a dead voice. “Nothing but a brute. Uso-Tsuki could have made you more. And yet you choose weakness.”

He brings his katana up, wincing from his wounds. Even from a distance it is easy to see that he is clinging to life. He approaches you wearily, ready to finish this. “Even when you beat me, you will be no match for Uso-Tsuki. His is the might of rulers. He will kill the Chief, and with him, the childish dream of prosperity in peace.” Purotekutā’s blade flashes towards you slowly; his attacks are futile. “And when he is done with the Chief, he will kill you next.”

Drawing back a few feet, he readies his sword one last time. His stance is open and aggressive, signaling: I am down, but I am not out. “You think I fail to realize our goals and paint a target on our back? I disagree. The target rests squarely on my heart. Come and paint that target red. For Marsonia.” It is unclear if the last sentence was meant for you, or for him.
 

Spoiler

 

Monster's Actions
Purotekutā: Attack -> Wulfrin
229655 | BD 5 + 1 - 3 = 3. MIss.

----- End of Round 3 -----

[0] Purotekutā | HP: 76/1000| DMG: 150 | ACC: 1 | EVA: 2 | Stun Imm. (2/3)

• Eagle Eye | <<Purotekutā>> is fully expecting an attack from an enemy. He will always instantly identify a stealthed player, breaking their stealth and negating any auto-hit bonuses.
• Disciplined | Starting after his first turn, <<Purotekutā>> will go into the way of an oncoming successful attack, blocking half of the final damage and delivering half of the blocked damage back to the Player. This damage is mitigatable. <<Purotekutā>> will not reflect any status conditions that may incur during this attack. This ability overrides <<Difendā's>> <<Defender>> ability. This ability has a 4 turn cooldown, and <<Purotekutā>> will always use it again as soon as it is available, though it will only activate against successful attacks.

 

•  

Edited September 4 by Acanthus

[Wulfrin 0]

Wulfrin simply sighed as he nonchalantly approached his defeated foe, his icy exterior fading back into mists around his blade. At this point his enemy was doing nothing more than his routine lines provided to him by his programmer.

"You say Uso-Tsuki could have offered more," Wulfrin said as he prepared to deliver the final blow. "If that was the case, he wouldn't have sent you. If you're the best he can offer, I think I'm better off without him."

One rapid upwards arc of a slash was all it took. As the light of his sword art faded, Purotekuta burst into an array of fractal lights just as his accomplice had. This time the mob left behind an info menu of some extra drops. Wulfrin wasn't going to complain, though. Then he remembered the Chief. Wulfrin pivoted and ran up the stairs to the Chief's side.

"Are you alright Chief?" Wulfrin said as he put his blade away and crouched down to the cowering Chief. "Come on. Let's get you to safety."

* * *

Spoiler

Recovery: ID: 229723 | CD 6 | +0 En
Wulfrin regains 4 EN
Cooldowns: Frozen Hide (2/4), Rending Familiar (4/5)

Post Action | [x12]ST-I (12 En) = 12 EN -2 Stamina = 10 EN
Free Action | none

ID: 229722 | BD 3+7=10 Hit | CD 11 | 28 * 12 = 336 DMG to Purotekutā. Target dies.

Wulfrin | HP: 784/784 | EN: 64/104 (70+4-10) | DMG: 28 | MIT:98 | ACC:7 | AA | EVA:3 | BH:17 | REC: 8 | FRB: 40 | TXC-V: 32 | FRZ: 64 | LD:6

[1] Purotekutā | HP: 0/1000 (76-336)| DMG: 150 | ACC: 1 | EVA: 2 | Stun Imm. (1/3)

• Eagle Eye | <<Purotekutā>> is fully expecting an attack from an enemy. He will always instantly identify a stealthed player, breaking their stealth and negating any auto-hit bonuses.
• Disciplined | Starting after his first turn, <<Purotekutā>> will go into the way of an oncoming successful attack, blocking half of the final damage and delivering half of the blocked damage back to the Player. This damage is mitigatable. <<Purotekutā>> will not reflect any status conditions that may incur during this attack. This ability overrides <<Difendā's>> <<Defender>> ability. This ability has a 4 turn cooldown, and <<Purotekutā>> will always use it again as soon as it is available, though it will only activate against successful attacks.

Spoiler

Looting Purotekuta

ID: 229724 | CD 5 | LD 6 + 6 = 12
CD odd: +1 Material
LD Even: +HP*2 Col

Results:
(1000*5 - incl. *2 from LD Even) = 5,000 + 250 (5% col stash) = 5,250 Col
1 Material
T4 Rare Consumable 229724a
T4 Rare Armor/Shield 229724b

 

Edited September 4 by Wulfrin

[Acanthus 0]

With the enforcers both dead, the commotion begins to subside. Uso-Tsuki is currently nowhere to be seen. The Chief looks up at you with eyes full of grief. “I knew it would come to this, but still… I was not prepared for such devastation. The ceremony is interrupted, and Uso-Tsuki has fled.”

A Marsonian guard approaches and stops at a safe distance. He salutes the Chief before turning to you. “I bring word from the lieutenant. He says that he is working on trapping Uso-Tsuki on the island. The docks are quarantined, and we have fleets circling the island, watching for any attempts to slip away.”

The Chief nods gratefully. “Thank you. And thank you, Wulfrin. I don’t know that we could have done this without you. Uso-Tsuki will not stop until he has installed himself in power. I fear I was too sentimental, and as a result, I let this get out of hand. Please, aid us one last time. Track down Uso-Tsuki and finish him once and for all.”

[Wulfrin 0]

"I'll find him don't worry," Wulfrin said standing up to survey the crowd of people. "My concern right now is the people."

Wulfrin was scanning the people from his position up on the raised dias. He wanted to make doubly sure there wasn't anyone else going to attempt to rush the chief. He didn't want to admit it out loud, but as a player he was at a sever disadvantage even with his relatively high stats for the quest. He had used up almost half of his energy meter in that encounter. I need to be at my peak when I go up against Uso-Tsuki. Otherwise I might be screwed. Slowly search at first, then go full force once you have recovered. Wulfrin's attention was pulled to the guard that approached.

"Good," Wulfrin nodded to the guard. "Report back to me if you get eyes on the renegade. Make sure any civilians are safely secured and any of the usurpers are brought here. It's only right that the chief gets to deliver his sentence for those who wished to turn on him." 

* * *

EN Recovery Posts (1/2)
Cooldowns: Frozen Hide (3/4), Rending Familiar (5/5)

[Acanthus 0]

The guard gives another salute. “I will notify you the moment we lay eyes on him. He can’t have made it far. I believe the lieutenant was looking to corral him on the south side of the island, but that may be subject to change.” The guard then disappeared back into the crowd.

The Chief, standing shakily, addresses you. “I… I feel that it is important to continue the commune. I have to show my people that I am strong. Besides,” the Chief glances to the forest beyond, “if Uso-Tsuki is on the run and his enforcers have been dispatched, I have nothing to fear. The contingent of my honor guard that remains here should be sufficient to protect me from any potential rebels and usurpers.” The Chief’s eyes flash angrily. “And when we are done here, I may decide to make a public example of the guards that saw fit to turn their backs on Marsonia.”

The Chief continues. “When you have recovered, you will find my lieutenant on the south side of the island. Go there and finish this foolish rebellion, and I will be eternally grateful.”

[Wulfrin 0]

"Solaris," Wulfrin said turning his gaze to the sky. "Find me the Lieutenant. We need to make sure Uso-Tsuki hasn't knocked him out of the fight."

Solaris immediately took off to the south. Wulfrin turned to the remaining honor guard and eyed them intently. He wasn't keen to just up and leave his employer, but he had no choice but to trust his guard.

"Don't let my efforts go to waste," Wulfrin ordered. "I'll be back either with Uso-Tsuki alive, or proof of his defeat. Keep the Chief protected until then."

Wulfrin with his eyes trailing off towards the sky occasionally, charged out of the ceremonial area. He kept his gaze focused on the skies, watching for Solaris to identify the Lieutenant. Wulfrin just had to hope that Uso-Tsuki hadn't given him the slip before he had closed off the exits. As Wulfrin maneuvered through brush and other obsticals in his path, the last of his active cooldowns ended and his energy fully recharged. He broke into a full speed dash. Now he was ready to face off with the last usurper.

* * *

EN Recovery Posts (2/2) -> EN Fully Recovered
Cooldowns: Frozen Hide (4/4)

[Acanthus 0]

The guard gives you one last salute. “I will protect the Chief with my life.” The few remaining guards appear to be restoring order, a group of hidden rebels already tied up and awaiting whatever punishment the Chief finds fitting.

Solaris’ birds-eye view comes in handy, as it only takes a few minutes for him to locate the action. Signaling to you down below, it appears that the lieutenant is indeed on the south side of the island. And the closer you get, the more frantic the noise becomes. You hear the sounds of battle, steel on steel, and the yelling of men, both in combat and in pain.

As you approach, you see a familiar face lying faceup in the dirt, groaning. The lieutenant appears lightly wounded and slightly dazed, and he looks up at you and clears his head. “Not a moment too soon, Wulfrin. We’ve caught him, but he’s fighting like a cornered animal. He’s already killed half a dozen of the honor guard.” He stands up and searches for his spear. “His combat abilities are incredible. It’s like he can see my strikes even before they land. Be careful in there—strike fast, and strike without mercy.” In the trees ahead, you can hear Uso-Tsuki laughing as he dispatches more guards.

[Wulfrin 0]

"Stand down!" Wulfrin commanded Uso-Tsuki. "Your attempts at the Chief's life are over! I'll be taking you in!"

Wulfrin rushed Uso-Tsuki in an attempt to draw hate from the lieutenant. Unfortunately, Uso-Tsuki seemed ready for his attack as he effortlessly dodged Wulfrin's strike. Wulfrin knew from that moment, that this fight was going to be a tough one. He was attempting to start off with a stun to get some uncontested hits in, but that plan soon fell a part. Quickly he pivoted to defense. He readied his blade to counter his opponent. As if on command, the icy mist surrounding him hardened into an exterior layer of protection.

"Regroup with your men Lieutenant." Wulfrin gritted his teeth. "I'll buy you as much time as I can."

Wulfrin eyed Uso-Tsuki ready for whatever strike would come his way. He had beaten his Gemini in a fair fight, and the two were basically even. This in theory shouldn't be to different.

Focus Wulfrin. Give this guy an inch and he's going to take a mile. 

* * *

Spoiler

Recovery: Not Needed
Wulfrin is at Full Energy
Cooldowns: Frozen Hide (1/5), Charge (1/3)

Post Action | Charge: [x16]Tech-A (16 En + 8 Charge) = 24 EN -2 Stamina -1 Rested (2/2) = 21 EN Miss -0 EN
Free Action | Frozen Hide -> One Slot of T4 Frost Aura and One Slot of T4 Frost Thorns applied to Wulfrin

ID: 229923 | BD 3-1=2 Miss. Uso-Tsuki negates ACC Bonus.

Wulfrin | HP: 784/784 | EN: 104/104 | DMG: 28 | MIT:98 | ACC:7 | AA | EVA:3 | BH:17 | REC: 8 | FRB: 40 | TXC-V: 32 | FRZ: 64 | LD:6

Uso-Tsuki | HP: 1400/1400 | DMG: 150 | MIT: 75 | ACC: 3 | EVA: 1

Abilities:

• Master's Eye | <<Uso-Tsuki>> knows that you are coming, and is already prepared. His precognitive vision allows him to predict your motions and negate ACC and auto-hit bonuses.
• Fleet Feet | On his first roll, if <<Uso-Tsuki>> misses, he will attack a second time in the same turn.
• Ultimate Assassin | Starting on his second turn, Uso-Tsuki will gain a DMG boost of 75 for that attack only. This ability has a 3 turn cooldown, and <<Uso-Tsuki>> will always use it again as soon as it is available.

 

 

Edited September 6 by Wulfrin