[PP-F05] The Sharkbait Training Program: The Sands of Time <<Bloodstained Land>>

Wulfrin · December 4, 2024

"Sup Abdullah!" Wulfrin jokingly announced his presence in his 'favorite' NPC's domicile. "I'm doing the thing. Your compliance is a non-factor."

"I think you'll fi-" Abdullah's voice faded as Wulfrin stepped past the beaded curtain.

It was a past time of his. Now that the raid was over, Wulfrin needed to blow off some steam. He could think of no better way than to go and absolutely steamroll a sandy shark. Wulfrin made his way through the streets of Fortaleza to the abandoned cafe he used as a staging ground. The quest was formally known as Bloodstained Land, but it had become known by a more informal title: The Sharkbait Training Program. The boss, Terra Firma, was not packing an AoE attack, so if a high level player like Wulfrin could maintain the monster's attention, the quest could be rendered into free exp and the chance at a pretty decent extra skill for a newbie.

Wulfrin quickly drafted up a message to two such players.

To: @Astra @Siren
From: Wulfrin
Subj: The Sharkbait Training Program

All right here's the deal. I just got done nearly dying in the floor raid and need to clear my head. I've already talked to the NPC to start the quest for the quest titled: Bloodstained Land. This is the Sharkbait Training Program I've been talking about.

Meet me at the enclosed coordinates on Floor 5 in Fortaleza, snacks will be provided and game plan will be discussed once the party has gathered.

Having sent off his message into the ether of Aincrad's messaging system, Wulfrin turned his attention tp the sun-bleached sign out front. He had one spot left open so he made sure his availability was public for any stragglers that may be looking for a quick boost.

* * *

Note: CS Shades of the Gemini is in effect. If any player objects to this they should state so in their first post and it will be considered inactive.

Accuracy 2 Consumed [Filled] and Evasion 2 Consumed - Gungir Shard 239050 | Sharkcuterie Board | T1 Demonic Feast (6/6) | ACC II | EVA II | ID: 239171 - Takes one portion and shares the rest with party
[desc.] A daring spread featuring a variety of cured and smoked shark meats, paired with exotic cheeses, crackers, and a hint of seaweed garnish. This adventurous platter offers a bold flavor journey, perfect for those with a taste for the wild and mysterious depths.

Protein 2 Consumed
Mitigation 3 Consumed
Toxic Venom 3 Consumed
Damage 3 Consumed - liquor of light
Elven Armor Salve 1 Consumed
Field Rations 1 Consumed
Hellstorm 1 Consumed

Loot Die Consumed
Prosperity Consumed

Wulfrin | HP: 874/874 | EN: 112/112 | DMG: 28 | MIT:98 | ACC:8 | AA | EVA:2 | PARA-IM | BH:29 | FRB: 40 | TXC-V: 32 | FRZ: 64 | LD:7 | PROSP:3 | ELF-S | HELLFIRE: 80

Spoiler

"Name: Wulfrin
True Tier: 6
Level: 34
Paragon Level: 18
HP: 874/874
EN: 112/112

Stats:
Damage: 28
Mitigation: 98
Accuracy: 8
Evasion: 2
Battle Healing: 29
Loot Die: 7
Stealth Rating: -2
AA PARA-IM FRB: 40 TXC-V: 32
FRZ: 64
ELF-S HELLFIRE: 80

Combat Mastery:
- Combat Mastery: Damage R3

Combat Shift:
- TECH Shift

Familiar Skill:
- Rending Familiar

Custom Skill:
- Shades of the Gemini

Skills:
- Battle Healing R3
- Charge
- Energist
- Light Armor R5
- Searching R4
- Straight Sword R5

Extra Skills:
- Disguise
- Forgotten King's Authority
- Survival
- Meditation

Inactive Extra Skills:
- Frozen Hide
- Brawler
- Assault Mode

Addons:
- Ferocity
- Focus
- Precision
- Resolve
- Stamina

Mods:
- Meticulous
- Night Vision

Inactive Mods:

Battle Ready Inventory:
- Bear Trap x2
- Crystal of Divine Light x1
- Imugi's Inspiration | Mass Healing x2
- Popcorn | T4 Vitality 2 x5
- Rhino's Horn x1
- TP Crystals x5

Housing Buffs:
- 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
- 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
- Basement: Gain +1 to LD, Stealth Rating, Stealth Detection, or Prosperity to one post in a thread. Can be applied after a roll
- Master Bedroom: -1 energy cost for the first three expenditures of each combat
- Master Bathroom: The first time you would suffer DoT damage in a thread, reduce damage taken from DoT each turn by 25% (rounded down)
- Extended Workshop: +2 Crafting EXP per crafting attempt and +1 crafting attempt per day
- Ornate Fishing Pond: +2 Fishing EXP per Attempt and additional +1 LD & CD to fishing attempts.
- Dining Hall: Turn 3 identical food items (same quality, tier, & enhancements) into a Feast. A Feast contains 6 portions of the food items sacrificed. Feasts created this way cannot be used outside of the thread they are created. Limit 1 item created per thread.
- Mega Slime Farm: +10% EXP to a thread. Limit one use per month. Must be used on a player's first post in a thread. Cooldown begins counting down when used in a post.

Guild Hall Buffs:
- Treasury: +5% bonus col from last-hit monster kills and +10% bonus col from treasure chests.

Scents of the Wild Totem:

Wedding Ring:

Crafting Profession:
- Blacksmith[2250exp] R8
Gathering Profession:
- Fishing[509exp] R5"

Edited December 26, 2024 by Wulfrin

Astra · December 4, 2024

Astra found himself at the gates of the settlement of Fortaleza, which was nestled between beds of large sand dunes that stretched for miles on the fifth floor. It was his first time on the desert floor, so there was a bit of excitement to be had for being somewhere new. However, as new and alluring a new floor was, this floor didn't come without it's drawbacks. It was hot and arid here, and Astra may have been a tad bit overdressed. He'd be fine in the cold desert at night, but during the day the sun beamed down on him and raised his bodily temperature to an almost uncomfortable amount. That, and he felt like there was too much sand. It was getting in his boots.

He made his way through the settlement streets with a purpose. He found himself here at the behest of his friend and pseudo-mentor Wulfrin, to partake in the quest Bloodstained Land. Today he'd be partaking in the famed Sharkbait Training Program, a way for him to gain an extra skill and hopefully some levels. The idea of taking on some sort of larger enemy was exciting, but the thought didn't come without its fair share of anxiety. He had to make sure that no matter what he wouldn't draw too much attention from the enemy, and make sure his strikes hit well. As Astra walked through the dusty pathways he mustered his determination and resolve to survive and thrive in this training program.

Eventually he found himself standing in front of an abandoned cafe. Lo and behold, when he stepped closer and inside, there was Wulfrin awaiting him and Siren. "Hey Wulfrin!" He greeted the fellow swordsman with a wave and a trademark smile. "I'm ready for Sharkbait day today, I've been waiting to give it a go since you first mentioned it." His statement was true, the quest and training had been on his mind. After this he'd hopefully be another step closer to making his way to the frontlines, and hopefully help making a difference in Aincrad. "So, what exactly does this entail?" He asked Wulfrin, raising an eyebrow.

Astra made his way to the table where some snacks and food was prepared, and helped himself to a bit of it. He could never turn down some good food. Now it was time to wait with Wulfrin for the others to join in, and then they'd commence the quest.

***

Astra consumes 1x portion of Sharkcuterie Board | T1 Demonic Feast | ACC II | EVA II |

Spoiler

Astra | HP: 20/20 | EN: 20/20 | DMG: 5 | MIT: 2 | ACC: 4 | REC: 1 | EVA: 2 |

Spoiler

Name: Astra
True Tier: N/A
Level: 1
Paragon Level: 1
HP: 20/20
EN: 20/20

Combat Mastery:
- N/A

Combat Shift:
- N/A

Familiar Skill:
- N/A

Custom Skill:
- N/A

Skills:
- Straight Sword R1

Extra Skills:

Inactive Extra Skills:

Addons:

Mods:

Inactive Mods:

Battle Ready Inventory:
- Starter Healing Potions (Restores 50HP) x3

Housing Buffs:
-Bedroom | "Rested" | -1 energy cost for the first two expenditures of each combat
-Dining Hall | "Delicious" | Turn 3 identical food items (same quality, tier, & enhancements) into a Feast. A Feast contains 6 portions of the food items sacrificed. Feasts created this way cannot be used outside of the thread they are created. Limit 1 item created per thread.
-Living Room | "Relaxed" | Increases out of combat HP regen by (5 * Tier HP) and decreases full energy regen to 2 Out of Combat Posts.

Crafting Profession:
-

Gathering Profession:
-

Edited December 26, 2024 by Astra

_Athena_ · December 4, 2024

As Athena ascended the towering structure of Aincrad, each floor presented a unique tapestry of challenges and opportunities. Her journey was driven not just by the thrill of combat or the desire for liberation from this digital confinement, but by a practical necessity: finding a skilled blacksmith capable of crafting weapons and armor that could withstand the formidable foes she anticipated facing on the higher levels.

The search for a blacksmith of such caliber was no small feat. Athena traversed bustling towns and quiet villages, each with its own unique charm and array of NPCs and players. The clamor of the marketplace, the distant clang of hammers on anvil, and the smell of hot metal were her guides through the labyrinthine streets. Her inquiries led her to a renowned blacksmith on one of the upper floors, a craftsman reputed for forging weapons that sung in battle and armor that felt like a second skin.

While the blacksmith worked tirelessly to create the equipment Athena needed, time stretched languidly, yet she saw it as an opportunity rather than an inconvenience. With a few days at her disposal, she decided to immerse herself in the floor's quests, honing her skills, earning experience, and gathering resources that might come in handy down the line.

Each quest, though labeled minor, was a story in itself, a thread in the rich tapestry of Aincrad. As she ventured into lush forests, dusky caverns, and bustling towns, Athena found herself drawn into the lives of the NPCs, whose predicaments and tales were as vivid and compelling as any player's. The villagers spoke of their woes and joys with a depth that belied their digital nature, and Athena, despite herself, felt a twinge of empathy—a reminder of the humanity she fought to protect and eventually return to.

Finally, the day arrived when the blacksmith presented her with the fruits of his labor: a gleaming sword, perfectly balanced, and armor that seemed to blend seamlessly with her movements. As she donned her new equipment, Athena felt a renewed sense of readiness and determination.

With renewed determination coursing through her veins, Athena placed her hand on the cool, smooth surface of the warp crystal. It was a ritual she had performed countless times, yet in this moment, it felt imbued with new significance. The familiar luminescent glow of the crystal enveloped her fingers, casting a serene blue light that danced across her armor, as if acknowledging the upgrades she had just received.

"Teleport, Fortaleza!" She intoned, her voice firm and unwavering. The words resonated in the air, triggering a cascade of shimmering energy that swirled around her. In the blink of an eye, the bustling marketplace and the clamor of the blacksmith's forge faded away, replaced by the rising hum of magic and the promise of adventure.

“Hm..” After laying eyes on the architecture, That clearly took inspiration from Arabian culture. Athena began wandering through the bazaar, Until her gaze landed on a sign outside an abandoned cafe. Which definitely piqued her curiosity, But she held the hilt of her blade just in case. “Um.. Hello?” Athena, though cautious, offered a simple greeting to the three players currently inside. “Mind, If I ask why you three are gathering in this place?” While she made an inquiry, Athena noticed a familiar face. “Wait.. Aren’t you the one? Who made my equipment?” Her gaze focused on Wulfrin, Since she wanted to confirm. If it really was him.

While waiting for a response, Athena noticed a small feast. Which inadvertently caused her stomach to grumble. “Mh~m..” As the scent of these delicious snacks filled her nose, She picked up a few pieces of meat, cheese and cracks.

***

Spoiler

_Athena_ | HP: 20/20 | EN: 20/20 | DMG: 6 | MIT:2 | ACC:3 | THORNS:9 | EVA: 2

Spoiler

Athena consumes 1x portion of Sharkcuterie Board | T1 Demonic Feast | ACC II | EVA II |

Edited December 27, 2024 by _Athena_
Updating the information

Siren · January 12

Another day, another quest. But this one promised to be different. Siren had heard plenty about Wulfrin’s so-called “Sharkbait Training Program,” and today, she and Astra would get to experience it firsthand. Determined not to be late for a change, Siren managed to drag herself out of bed early, a rare feat, even for her. As she strolled toward Fortaleza, her nose was buried in one of her well-worn romance novels. The bustle of the city unfolded around her as NPCs and players alike hurried about their business, but Siren moved through the crowd with practiced ease, bobbing and weaving without so much as glancing up. Her lips occasionally curled into a soft smile or twitched into a smirk as she read, completely absorbed in the drama unfolding on the pages.

She reached the coordinates Wulfrin had sent, finally looking up from her book as she spotted him. "Hey, darlin’," she greeted, tucking her bookmark into place before dematerializing the book back into her inventory with a casual flick of her wrist. Her scarlet eyes shifted to Astra, and her tone softened. “Hi sugar,” she waved warmly. It wasn’t long before Siren’s gaze fell on another unfamiliar face. A woman she hadn’t met before stood nearby, looking like she was ready for whatever Wulfrin’s so-called “training program” had in store. Siren stepped forward, extending a hand with her signature friendly smile. “Hiya, sug. I’m Siren. What's your name?” Her southern lilt was welcoming, and her scarlet eyes sparkled with curiosity.

As introductions wrapped up, Wulfrin presented a carefully arranged meat and cheese board, a gesture that made Siren chuckle. “Well, ain’t you fancy,” she teased lightly, helping herself to a small portion. The rich flavors were a welcome prelude to whatever chaos lay ahead. “Alright, darlin’, let’s see what this ‘Sharkbait’ business is all about,” she added, excitement flickering in her tone as she readied herself for the quest ahead.

* * *

Spoiler

Siren | HP: 60/60 | EN: 24/24 | DMG: 8 | MIT:18 | EVA:1 | LD:3

Spoiler

"Name: Siren
True Tier: 1
Level: 3
Paragon Level: 0
HP: 60/60
EN: 24/24

Stats:
Damage: 8
Mitigation: 18
Evasion: 1
Loot Die: 3

Combat Mastery:
-

Combat Shift:
-

Familiar Skill:
-

Custom Skill:
-

Skills:
- Light Armor R1
- Rapier R2

Extra Skills:

Inactive Extra Skills:

Addons:

Mods:

Inactive Mods:

Battle Ready Inventory:

Housing Buffs:

Guild Hall Buffs:

Scents of the Wild Totem:

Wedding Ring:

Crafting Profession:

Gathering Profession:
"

Edited January 12 by Siren

Wulfrin · January 12

"Looks like we've got ourselves a crew then." Wulfrin said as he made his way to a rolling chalkboard that had been pushed to the side. "Allow me to explain today's... activity."

Wulfrin flipped the blank chalkboard to reveal its crudely decorated opposite face. On it were a series of scribbles resembling a four legged shark leaping at a lone stick figure with a sword. There were as series of additional arrows drawn from three other figures on the sideline pointing at the shark following the path of a crudely drawn bird.

"So despite what you may think," Wulfrin pointed with a beat up pool cue. "I am the sharkbait in the title of this Sharkbait Training Program. I will be pretty much soloing the quest boss while y'all take pot shots at the big guy hoping to draw out its special skill. This boss doesn't have an AoE so as long as you let me pull and keep the agro you will be fine. As for a full play by play, it will go as such: I will be opening with a stun removing the boss's ability to attack the first round. Once it's prone follow Solaris, the phoenix chilling on the counter over there. The three of you wont be dealing hardly any damage so avoid using Sword Arts and wasting your energy. Even a basic attack will trigger the skill. if we're lucky you can all start off with more than just a level boost."

Wulfrin made his way back to the makeshift snack bar and took his seat. Solaris soared over from the counter perching like a parrot. The crimson hued hawk's slightly golden plumage radiating small flames with eacch movement.

"I'll answer any questions you have." He continued as his menu appeared, running his last minute checks. "Best ask them now. The fight will be pretty dicey and will need most of my attention. We'll head out shortly and there will be plenty of time to talk on the way."

Astra · January 14

Before he knew it, Astra found himself in a party of four. This was going to be the crew that took on Wulfrin's Sharkbait training program, so it was probably best that introductions were made between the people who didn't know one another. Astra offered a wave and a smile to the woman whom he didn't recognize, with a "Hi, I'm Astra. Nice to meet you." When Siren had entered the hovel they found themselves in, Astra found himself a little more at ease. Siren had a hospitable warmth about her that was infectious. "Hey Siren! Ready for some shark fighting?" He asked, while wiping the small bits of crumbs from the snacks from his hands.

Astra glanced over Wulfrin's crude drawings on the board, displaying the tactics they would be using during this battle. It was simple enough to understand, Wulfrin would initiate the first attack and stun the creature, while the others would follow up. The hardest part would be making sure they didn't draw too much aggro from the land shark, but Astra was sure that it would be manageable. Maybe he should feel a bit more nervous, but in his current company, even with someone he barely knew, he felt like everyone would do well in this fight.

There wasn't much that needed to be done on his part for preparation, so Astra nodded along to Wulfrin's instructions and awaited for the party to venture to the battleground. Though he was clear on the task at hand, and how he'd contribute, he did have one question when Wulfrin had offered to answer questions. "So, this ability - if we obtain it, what does it do for us?" Any new ability would be a bonus for the novice swordsman, so he was hoping that he'd be able to obtain it. That and some more levels were the point of this venture, after all. Soon the party would travel towards the location of the land shark, until then it was a waiting game. Astra stood looking outside at Fortaleza while he waited, tapping on the pommel of his sword to stay occupied.

_Athena_ · January 24

As Athena surveyed the lavish spread before her, she couldn't help but appreciate the level of detail and care that went into preparing such a feast for the quest participants. The charcuterie was a vibrant array of colors and textures, an inviting tapestry of cured meats, cheeses, fruits, and artisanal bread. It was a rare moment of indulgence in a world where survival often took precedence over luxury.

"Hm?" Athena paused, her senses attuned to the subtle shift in the atmosphere as she picked up the delicate slice of prosciutto. Her attention was drawn to a figure approaching with a friendly air, a player who seemed to radiate warmth and camaraderie.

Siren, as she introduced herself, was a captivating presence, her friendly smile inviting a sense of familiarity and ease. "Hello love.." She greeted, her voice a melody that resonated with sincerity. Athena, ever observant, noticed the genuine intent behind Siren's eyes, a look that spoke of shared intentions and a potential ally in this vast digital expanse.

Maintaining a composed and mature demeanor, Athena extended her hand, accepting the gesture of goodwill. "You can call me, Athena." She replied, her voice steady and welcoming. The handshake was firm yet gentle, a silent acknowledgment of mutual respect and the possibility of friendship.

As the formal introductions concluded, the atmosphere shifted to one of focused anticipation. Wulfrin, the party leader, stepped forward, exuding a calm confidence that commanded attention. His eyes scanned the group, assessing each member's readiness for the formidable challenge that lay ahead—the Quest Boss.

Athena listened intently as Wulfrin laid out his strategy. His plan was meticulous, a testament to his experience and understanding of the game's mechanics. However, as he delved into the specifics, Athena quickly realized the disparity in levels among the group. She, Siren, and the young man were not at the optimal level for such an encounter, their abilities insufficient to deal significant damage to the boss.

Wulfrin, aware of this imbalance, crafted a strategy that played to their strengths—or rather, their limitations. He would bear the brunt of the battle, drawing the boss's attention and utilizing his advanced skills to control the fight. Meanwhile, Athena and the others would support him, taking calculated shots at the boss, contributing to the fight in any way they could. Though their damage output would be minimal, every bit counted towards the ultimate goal: a hefty level increase for everyone involved.

"I grasp the gist of it." Athena interjected, nodding with understanding. "While the boss is focused primarily on you, we'll try to trigger the conditions for its hidden skills activation." Her voice was calm and assured, condensing Wulfrin's detailed plan into a succinct summary that highlighted their roles.

This approach would not only ensure their safety, But also offer them a valuable learning opportunity. Athena understood the importance of experiencing high-level battles firsthand, even if their contribution was limited. It was a chance to observe, to learn, and to grow as a player.

Following the strategic briefing, Athena felt a sense of camaraderie beginning to weave its way through the group. The plan was set, and now it was time to solidify the bonds that would carry them through the upcoming challenge. She turned her attention to Astra, the young man in their party who had been quietly absorbing the information.

"Hello hun... It's a pleasure to meet you as well." Athena greeted, her voice warm and inviting. Her gentle smile conveyed a sense of reassurance, an unspoken promise that they were all in this together, facing the same trials and triumphs.

"Just like our friends over there, you can call me Athena." She continued, extending her hand in a gesture of friendship. Her handshake was firm yet welcoming, a tangible connection amidst the digital world they inhabited.

WC: 632

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[PP-F05] The Sharkbait Training Program: The Sands of Time <<Bloodstained Land>>

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