[F09 | PP] Bandits Below | <<Bandit Camp>>

[Nymoria 0]

Bandit Camp

Nymoria could already see the day was going to be less enjoyable than she would’ve liked. It had started with a notification of a newly available quest – or a reminder of one that she had yet to complete, she wasn’t quite sure which it had been. She’d almost tossed aside the reminder without reading it, before noticing that it, at least, offered a chance at obtaining a decent amount of col. That was, it could offer a decent amount of col if she were to put the effort in and complete it.

What she hadn’t noticed, on the first read through before deciding to take on the quest, was the location of the entire event. It had been noted – in the briefest of details and the most easily missed – as within the depths of the mines found on the ninth floor. The one floor that Nymoria had always hated visiting, if for no reason other than it already felt like she was entering the depths of the hells as soon as she stepped off the teleporter platform. The burning air, which tore at lungs and skin alike, was anything but comfortable to those who chose to visit the area; willingly or through more coerced means.

It is always so uncomfortable here. I don’t understand how anyone can call this home…or enjoy being here, in any fashion. Her eyes passed over some nearby local NPCs – all of whom appeared more than content with their surroundings. None showed any signs of discomfort beneath the waves of heat that swarmed over them, and she could even see a few of them dressed in longer sleeved outfits; as if they were attending a chilly day compared to what they were used to in their environment. It almost made Nymoria appear underdressed, her casual blouse, bow and plaid skirt loose fitting to allow airflow into every possible area. She’d even given up her usual leggings in favour of shorts beneath the skirt, if only to provide a small measure of comfort and relief from the heat.

This place is horrible. Who thought this would be a good idea as a location that we could travel to? Who thought anyone would want to come here willingly? She growled inside her head, the words as loud as she ever was. Her expression, at least, carried a sourness to it that would’ve told any passing by her mood in the moment. Still, she knew there would be no overcoming the discomfort that would need to be endured to complete the quest itself.

She gave a harsh sigh as an NPC slowly approached her, his expression and demeanour obvious in what he was about to do – and yet Nymoria knew she needed to speak with the man. Kirk. Quest giver. At least he’s not known for droning on in monologue… Nymoria frowned further as she realised the heat was making her less agreeable than normal, even towards herself. Forcing herself into a more professional stance, she gave a bow towards the NPC as he approached her and came to a stop, before listening quietly to everything he had to say.

’Hail, adventurer! I require your assistance, for it seems our camp has become plagued by bandits…’

Statblock

Spoiler Notes [Theme] Nymoria | Lv. 33 | P. 2 | HP [680/680] | EN [104/104] | ACC [5] | DMG [22] | EVA [4] | BH [+37] | Bleed [36] | Keen [+1 BD] | LD [+1] Tier 4 | Tier 4 Equipment Repressed [Rapier | Tier 3] Enhancement: Bleed [2 Slots] Enhancement: Keen [1 Slot] Ring of Evasion [Jewelry | Tier 1] Enhancement: Evasion [3 Slots]  Hearing Aid [Trinket | Tier 1] Enhancement: Accuracy [3 Slots] Battle-Ready Inventory Uncommon Health Potion {5} [Potion | Tier 1 | Heals 5% Maximum HP] Honey Cookie {5} [Snack | Tier 1 | Vitality II] bento {1} [Meal | Tierless | Oveerhealth III] Honey Cookie {5} [Snack | Tier 1 | Vitality II] Chocolate Truffles {4} [Dessert | Tier 3 | Vitality II] Dear My Friend {3} [Support Song | Tier 4 | HP Recovery III | Instant] Teleport Crystal {1} Crystal of Support | [3/3 charges] | Heals the user and each party member for (50 * Target's Tier) HP. Requires a Post Action to use.  Skills Spoiler Utility Skills Extended Weight Limit [Active: Passive. Effect: +2 additional Battle-Ready inventory slots.] Combat Skills Battle Healing [Rank: 5. Active: Passive. Effect: While in combat, recover 1% per rank of your maximum HP (rounded down) at the beginning of your turn.] Energist [Active: Passive. Effect: Increase base Energy by 5*Tier.] Weapon Skills Rapiers [Rank: 5. Active: Passive. Effect: +7 DMG] [Rank 5 Weapon Addon] Stamina [Active: Passive. Effect: Reduces EN of all attacks by 2.] [Rank 5 Weapon Addon] Precision [Active: Passive. Effect: +1 ACC.] [Rank 5 Weapon Addon] Rapier Ferocity [Active: Passive. Effect: +2 DMG when using the weapon of your choice. Players cannot use Focus and Ferocity at the same time for the same Weapon Type.] [Rank 5 Shift] AOE Specialist [Active: Passive. Effect: For the following Sword Arts, +4 to multipliers and +2 to EN cost; AoE-I, AoE-II. No other Shifts may be taken.] Armour Skills Unhindered [Active: Passive. Effect: +1 Accuracy, +1 Loot Dice, +1 Evasion, +5*Tier HP. Your mitigation is capped at 0 equipment slots.] Active Extra Skills Concentration [Active: Free Action. Cooldown: 5 turns. Effect: As a free action, gain Absolute Accuracy on your next attack. In the case Absolute Accuracy is already present, increase your Accuracy by 1 instead. Effect lasts until the start of next turn.] Leadership [Rank: 1. Active: Passive. Effect: Gain access to Leadership Arts every rank. In order to use a Leadership Art, it must take up a mod slot. Each Leadership Art takes up a different mod slot. Leadership Arts from different sources do not stack.] [Rank 1 Leadership Art] Elusive [Active: Post Action. Energy: 4 EN. Cooldown: 2 turns. Effect: Increase the Evasion of all players in your party by 1 for a single turn.] [Rank 2 Leadership Art] Rally [Active: Post Action. Energy: 6 EN. Cooldown: 2 turns. Effect: Increase the Accuracy of all players in your party by 1 for a single turn.] [Rank 3 Leadership Art] Steadfast [Active: Post Action. Energy: 8 EN. Cooldown: 3 turns. Effect: Status Effects that would be applied to the party for the next two turns would instead be applied to the user instead (normal rules for how status effects refresh instead of stacking apply).] Survival [Active: Passive. Effect: Increases Healing effects received from all sources by 10%. Grants immunity to all damage dealing environmental attacks/effects.]  Inactive Extra Skills  Frozen Hide [Active: Free Action. Energy: 5 EN. Cooldown: 4 turns. Effect: As a free action, apply one slot of Frost Aura and one slot of Frost Thorns equal to your tier to yourself until the start of your next turn.] Combat Mastery Damage [Rank: 3. Active: Passive. Effect: Gain +1 * Tier additional Base Damage per rank. Ranks of this Skill obey Damage enhancement caps.] Familiar Skills Hunting Familiar [Active: Free Action. Cooldown: 5 turns. : Effect: Your familiar has a nose for treasure. Roll LD/CD (without bonuses) as if you had slain a loot-minimum mob.] Estate Buffs N/A Sword Arts Spoiler [x12] ST-I (12 10 EN) | A single-target sword art. [x15] ST-II (15 13 EN) | A powerful single-target sword art. Only available for use when ST-I was used and successfully struck an enemy the previous turn or if ST-II had been used and had missed the previous turn. [x20] ST-B (20 18 EN) | A devastating single-target sword art. Can only be used if the sword art used the previous turn is not ST-B and had rolled a natural CD9+. When performing an AoE attack, this CD check applies to only the first roll. [x15] AOE-I (13 11 + [2 * targets] EN) | AOE | A sword art that strikes multiple targets at once. [x18] AOE-II (16 14 + [2 * targets] EN) | AOE | A powerful sword art that strikes multiple targets at once. Only available for use when AOE-I was used and successfully struck an enemy the previous turn or if AOE-II had been used and had missed all intended targets the previous turn. [x12] TECH-A (13 11 EN) | STUN | A single-target sword art that stuns an enemy. [x12] TECH-B (13 11 EN) | DELAY | A single-target sword art that, on a successful strike, applies [Delay] on the enemy. [Delay] is a debuff that reduces the enemy’s ACC by 1 for one turn. [x8] TECH-F (8 6 + [2 * targets] EN) | AOE STUN | A sword art that strikes multiple targets at once. All struck targets are stunned for one turn. Housing Buffs Spoiler Shizuka [Home] Master Bedroom [-1 energy cost for the first three expenditures of each combat.] Living Room [Increases out of combat HP regen by (5 * Tier HP) and decreases full energy regen to 2 Out of Combat Posts.] Atelier (Extended Workshop) [+2 Crafting EXP per crafting attempt & +1 crafting attempt per day.] Greenhouse [+2 Gathering EXP per Attempt and additional +1 LD & CD to gathering attempts.] Storage Closet [+1 Battle Ready Inventory Slot.] Attic (Storage) [+5% bonus col from monster kills and treasure chests.]

Edited Thursday at 02:20 PM by Nymoria

[Wildfire 0]

Echo found themself, as they often did, on the outskirts of the town of beginnings, stretching. Not because it helped their body but the motions were still grounding.

I wonder if I am just feeling stagnant or something. I should take some time to explore the castle. I have really only taken time to go shopping so far. Maybe I can… meet some people… no, no I don’t think I want to do that. I should just stick to exploration. After all, I can go outside of the safe zone now, or at least to an extent. Probably best to stay away from floor 5, I can’t stand the desert biome, any time I leave I feel awful. Its probably all in my head but I just can't get over how dry the air is. It makes me feel like my skin is going to start cracking with every step. 

Finishing their exercise, they go to the teleport platform. 

I should go top down right? That makes the most sense, so that means…

Echo opens their menu to the map of Aincrad. 

28… the 28th floor… That feels a bit ambitious. I could start at floor 10 that would be fine… floor 9 maybe? Yeah I can do floor 9, just have to stay in the safe zone, I can explore the main settlement, that should be fine.

Stepping on the platform and saying the command they find themself in Yōgan Village. The wave of heat that comes over them makes them double over. Running from the platform as they try not to vomit. 

Are all the floors awful to be on? Why couldn’t they just be peaceful like the Town of Beginnings? It feels like every time I travel it is just one hell after another. 

Getting themself together they equip their <Coveralls> keeping them zipped up. 

If I am going to be here I should be safe. Now to explore. I am sure that there are some people crazy enough to enjoy this place. I am going to have to be careful not to trip over these cracks in the ground. 

Walking slowly and carefully through the village Echo observes the obsidian buildings taking care to observe the change in architecture between each one. Though they stopped when they caught something that sat at the edge of their mind. A girl, brown hair, wearing loose fitting clothing. 

Honestly that is probably the way to go. These coveralls are great when the temperature is normal or even a bit chilly but it does nothing to keep the heat out… I think I recognize her though, I should go say ‘hi’ right? That's what normal people do? Ope, but she is talking to someone and I am staring like a creep, I should find something else to do. I wonder if there is a good place to sit around here… oh that will work.

Walking to <On The Rocks>, a small bar with both indoor and outdoor dining. Echo takes a seat at one of the tables outside,made of black stone. The chairs and table are immovable and slightly too close together seeming built out of or mortared into the ground.

“Can I get you anything?” The portly NPC beermaster asks approaching Echo

“Water will be fine, thanks”

“Fine,” the man says with a scoff “let me know if you want anything more substantial” 

I should probably order ice but I doubt it will still be there when it gets here.

-------------------

WC: 582

Stats

Spoiler

Lvl 11

HP 220/220 | EN 40/40 | 5 DMG | MIT 4 | 3 EVA |1 ACC| 2HP/rnd BH | LD +3 | Chest LD +1

Battle Ready:

x3 Crystal of the Blood Dragon Horde

Item Type: Crystal

Tier: t1

Quality: Perfect

Enhancements: Mass HP recovery 10%

x1 Zackariah’s Special Draug

x1 Bitter Tea | +2 OH

[TIERLESS RARE POTION] [237535b]

Hard to swallow. It is a popular unscientific belief that things that taste awful are invariably the best for one’s health. It is true, in this scenario. Don’t count on it when you get back.

Equipped:

Name: Coveralls

Item Type: Cloth Armor

Tier: 1

Quality: Perfect

Enhancements: EVA III

Description: This blue jumpsuit is reminiscent of a jean mechanics uniform, though it seems more worn then new. It bears olive green patches on the knees and elbows of the garment as well as 13 outward facing star buttons. The cinch mechanism has been replaced with a sturdy leather bet.

Novice’s Halberd

DMG/DMG/ACC

[T1 PERFECT POLEARM] [237370a]

A simple polearm with an iron tip. You found this with your own hands.

Skills:

Searching

3 Ranks

Passive | Effect: +1 LD per rank. +1 to Stealth Detection per rank. | Description: Increases your perception, making it easier to find treasure, detect hidden creatures, and increases your chance of obtaining better loot from monsters.

Lock Picking

1 Rank

Passive | Effect: +1 LD per rank when picking the locks on chests. | Description: Your sleight of hand improves your chances of successfully unlocking a treasure chest.

Battle Healing

1 Ranks

Passive | Effect: While in combat, recover 1% per rank of your maximum HP (rounded down) at the beginning of your turn. | Description: Passively recover health in battle ( Currently: 10 HP/rnd)

Polearms Skill

1 Rank: +3 DMG

Passive

Cloth Armor

1 Rank: 4 MIT

Passive | Effect: Gain Mitigation based on your rank in Cloth armor. You can only benefit from one armor skill at a time (the respective armor type must be equipped). Your mitigation is capped at 1 equipment slots. | Description: You have become proficient in cloth armor, which protects you a little but grants you agility and mobility.

Extra Skill (Equipped):

First Aid [Requires two Extra Skill slots]

3 Ranks

Active: Post Action | Energy cost: (3 * Rank in skill) EN | Effect: Heal 4% per rank of a target party member’s maximum HP (rounded down). Cannot target the user.

Skill Mods(Equipped):

 [Rank 2 First Aid Mod] Purify

Active: Post Action | Energy cost: 3 EN | Cooldown: 1 Turn | Effect: Remove all status conditions on one target party member. Can target the user. | Description: The user’s hands and target player glow an eerie bright white, removing one status condition from the target.

 [Rank 2 Searching Mod] Night Vision

Passive | Effect: Ignores any penalties from low light or darkness. Negates the bonus Stealth Rating from low light or darkness. | Description: Allows the user to see normally in dim or dark areas.

 

Edited Wednesday at 12:21 AM by Wildfire

[Acanthus 0]

The third time Acanthus had ordered ice on floor nine was the one that finally made her give up. It wasn’t even the fact that her third cup had been lukewarm, sulfur water. It was the laughs that she swore the bartender shared with the other patrons of the bar.

But she was distracted today. Her hand wandered around the edge of the cheap iron mug, tracing the dents as her mind focused on other things. Her face was set like an iron mask that reminded her of the glass. I wonder if I’m earning any dents during my time here. I’m probably just not noticing them. That was just the way worked here. Either you lived long enough to wear your scars, or…

“Hail, adventurer! I require your assistance, for it seems our camp has become plagued by bandits…”

Kirk. Acanthus nearly scoffed. A man that couldn’t find his face in a hall of mirrors. She’d dealt with him once for the bandit camp quest, and hoped to never hear from him again. She stood to vacate the bar, drink barely touched. It tasted like rotten egg anyways.

A streak of cherry blossom caught her attention. That’s not a native color. It’s too pretty.

“...Nymoria.” She appeared to be talking with the foreman. Catching her attention, she offered a stoic hello. “It’s been a while. I was worried you had…” She trailed off. “I’m glad you’re alright. I don’t think I could handle seeing another familiar name on the Monument.”

Kirk continued to ramble down his quest dialogue. Acanthus made a vague face of annoyance. “The bandit camp? I was actually about to head that direction. Without the quest though—I’ve already done it, and Kirk is… well, we aren’t on good terms.” She paused a moment to see if Kirk would say anything. He appeared engaged with Nymoria, totally ignoring Acanthus. Ideal.

“Why don’t we see if anyone else here is looking for the quest? It tends to be a popular one, and the more of us there are, the safer the quest is.” Acanthus peered over the area, gauging the readiness of the players by whatever equipment she could see.
 

 Acanthus | Lvl 66 (34/32) | Acanthus | HP: 840/840 | EN: 98/98 | DMG: 23 | MIT:95 | ACC:5 | AA  | BRN-IM  | FL.AURA: 8 | BH:46 | HB: 37 | VAMP-D: 46 | REC: 4 | LD:5

 

Spoiler

Equipment and Consumables

Spoiler

All enhancements reflected in the stat block unless otherwise specified.

Equipment
Weapon. botan. AA | ACC 3
Armor. Enduring Thistle VAMP-D | MIT | REC | FIREPROOF
Trinket. Fractured Heart | Holy Blessing 2 | Flame Aura

Consumables
TEXT

Abilities (Skills, Shifts, Masteries, Add-ons, and Mods)

Spoiler

Combat Mastery and Shift
Combat Mastery: Damage R3
TECH Shift

Skills

• Battle Healing R5
• Light Armor R5
  • Addon: Precision
  • Addon: Resolve
  • Mod: Meticulous (1/5)
• Searching R4 + 1 (Skylight: Searching)
  • Mod: Night Vision (2/5)
  • Mod: Tracking (3/5)
• Straight Sword R5
  • Addon: Ferocity
  • Addon: Stamina

Extra Skills

• Forgotten King's Authority
• Survival
• Photosynthesize
• Block
  • Mod: Shield Bash (4/5)

Inactive Extra Skills

• Assault Mode
• Disguise

Addons

• Ferocity
• Precision
• Resolve
• Stamina

Mods

• Shield Bash
• Meticulous
• Night Vision
• Tracking

Battle Ready Inventory (7 Slots)
Dimensional Backpack + Item Stash

Spoiler

1. Lama Sabachthani | 236687 | Consumable - Soundtrack | Hypnosis 2 | Lullaby 2 (Instant)
   Pain deeper than words, engraved by a hand that does not know its own heart.
2. Edict's Threnody | 236686 | Consumable - Soundtrack | Perpetuate (Instant)
   If my suffering will not end, then neither will yours.
3. [Empty]
4. [Empty]
5. [Empty]
6. [Empty]
7. [Empty]

Housing

Spoiler

House Name: Villa of Coruscating Flowers (The Villa)
Location: Floor 24 - Paradise Islands
Description: See above
Plot Size: Estate - PK Accessible
Rooms: Listed below. All rooms are assigned to Acanthus.

• Master Bedroom
  • Well Rested | -1 energy cost for the first three expenditures of each combat.
• Greenhouse
  • Green Thumb | +2 Gathering EXP per Attempt and additional +1 LD & CD to gathering attempts.
• Extended Workshop: Recording Studio (25,000 col)
  • Hard Working | +2 Crafting EXP per crafting attempt and +1 crafting attempt per day.
• Mega Slime Farm
  • Advanced Training | +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.
• Living Room:
  • Relaxed | Increases out of combat HP regen by (5 * Tier HP) and decreases full energy regen to 2 Out of Combat Posts.
• Attic (Bedroom)
  • Skylight (Searching) | +1 Expertise to declared utility skill (Searching). Cannot boost a skill without ranks, or increase a skill past its maximum rank. Cannot boost a skill the user has not learned yet. Ranks obtained using this buff will make the mods of that rank available for purchase. Mods obtained this way are unusable if this buff is removed until the skill is returned to the appropriate rank by way of SP purchase.
• Basement:
  • Multipurpose | Gain +1 to LD, Stealth Rating, Stealth Detection, or Prosperity to one post in a thread. Can be applied after a roll.
• Storage Closet: (10,000 col)
  • Item Stash | +1 Battle Ready Inventory Slot
• Master Bathroom: (25,000 col)
  • Squeaky Clean | The first time you would suffer DoT damage in a thread, reduce damage taken from DoT each turn by 25% (rounded down)

Crafting and Gathering

Spoiler

Performer | Rank 5
Apollo’s Metronome | Crafting Tool | Meticulous: +1 CD when crafting in one’s workshop.

Forager | Rank 5
Demeter's Cornucopia | Gathering Tool | Bountiful: +1 CD to gathering attempts.

 

 

Edited February 10 by Acanthus

[Nymoria 0]

Nymoria had almost sighed in relief as she spotted the form of Acanthus – a somewhat familiar face, if she were to be entire candid. Still, it was far better than listening to the NPC prattle on about their camp that was under attack; prattling being the key word, as she’d be unable to interrupt his monologue regardless of what she attempted.

It is good to see you again, Acanthus. She smiled as she signed, Kirk taking no notice of her lack of interest in his continued explanation of their woes. A part of Nymoria felt her heart go out towards the man, and another part of her wanted nothing more than for him to stop talking. As much as she wished to turn away to block out the sound entirely, she knew that would simply cancel the monologue leading to the offering of the quest – meaning she would have to suffer through it all again, later, if she were to take the quest in earnest. Another name?

Before her quizzical confusion could be answered, however, Acanthus had quickly slipped into a new topic; focusing more upon the quest that Nymoria had been ambushed by. She’d not completed it herself, and although she’d been toying with taking it, the arrival of Acanthus had cemented in the idea – as had the idea of finding other individuals interested in taking the quest. Almost naturally her eyes passed over the area, spotting a few separate individuals who might fit the descriptor of interested in taking the quest. She gave a slight smile and nod towards Acanthus, before accepting the prompt that had appeared before her, sending a party invite to the lady at her side, and then moving towards one individual who appeared far too focused on their glass of water.

Good morning. Nymoria signed low, making sure her hands were well within sight of the player’s eyes, so that the words would translate within their mind as Cardinal always ensured. We are heading out on the Bandit Camp quest. We are looking for another to join us, if you would be interested?

[Wildfire 0]

Perhaps as it was a self-fulfilling prophecy that caused the water to arrive lukewarm and tasteless. Echo sighed as they took a drink regardless, taking solace that they were seemingly not the only person who was being foiled by the ambient heat of the floor. Though their compilation of why these things were programmed the way they were was stalled as the people they had been observing approached. Echo took a moment to observe both the individual they had been intending to talk to earlier but also the newcomer, the brown haired woman practically towering over both the mixed hair woman and Echo. 

Then it was that  Echo had to mask a startle as they were suddenly able to understand sign language. 

It is interesting that they were able to go even so far as this, though in practice sign language probably takes the same region of the brain to process as other languages would, so I guess that makes sense. Does that mean that the game is taking the words spoken in our minds and translating the thoughts rather than the language as opposed to hearing what is said and translating from there? That would probably make the most sense given that it is a neural connection but then you have the problem of, why is there spoken language at all and not just telepathy? 

Coming back to their senses, and realizing they had been just kind of staring at the two for a moment, not responding to them, Echo responds. 

“O-oh sorry, I got a bit lost in the sauce there. I have been needing to get out and do some more adventuring. A couple notes before you decide you actually want to have me on with your group. This is only my third quest, so I am not super well versed on the fine details, so I apologize in advance if I make any faux pas. The second is potentially a bit more problematic. While I am level 11 and have some amount of combat skill, I am primarily a healer? I have some stuff that can help with status effects, and I carry a couple of mass healing crystals in case I run out of energy. I also am happy to provide some of my consumables if you would like, I am pretty good at finding chests so I am sure I will probably recoup any cost.”

Echo smiled at them trying their absolute best to hide the creeping anxiety of the interaction, every negative possibility playing out in their head before them, it was everything they could do to keep a smile and actually listen to what was said to them, though the fact that they were shaking lightly, likely didn’t help.

------------------------

WC: 457

[Acanthus 0]

The new adventurer seemed earnest. It made it easy to trust them. "I appreciate your honesty," Acanthus started warmly. "Let's address your concerns in order. First, don't worry too much about social niceties. As far as loot goes, most parties will traditionally split col and items evenly, although a few veterans will hand off their items to up and coming players. Second, your level and skills won't be a problem. I'm sure Nymoria and I can handle the bandits. I've done this quest once. I'm actually here to—" she paused, trying to find the diplomatic response. "—I'm… blowing off steam, I think is the phrase." Acanthus quickly recovered her speaking pace. "As long as you are careful and don't engage, you shouldn't draw hate from the bandits. Third, while we appreciate your offer for items, I'm sure I speak for Nymoria when I say you should avoid using them on us. Items can be a costly investment for lower level players, and I'd prefer it if

Another name. When did this happen? Why had no one told

She froze in the middle of her thought as the awkward silence hung heavy over the three of them. Her face formed a stern frown. "Use them on yourself. Don't let the bandits kill you. Leave us if you have to. Nymoria," She spoke softly to the silent swordswoman, "we can go whenever you're ready."

Edited February 13 by Acanthus

[Nymoria 0]

She’d been standing and waiting as Acanthus spoke, her eyes darting back and forth between the two of them. But as Acanthus seemed to pause, Nymoria found her brow furrowing ever so slightly, a look of concern thrown towards the other woman. She had just begun to raise her hands to ask if Acanthus was alright, when they began speaking again – their words trailing onwards from a similar point of where they had left off, although oddly not in rhythm. At least, not to Nymoria’s comprehension.

What Acanthus means is that we are safe enough without the items. Save them for yourself. Stick close, and behind us. We will make sure you are safe. She signed towards the newer player, noticing their nervousness. It was slight, for sure, but it was familiar to Nymoria in a way that made it clear as day that the individual wanted to do anything but speak with them. Do not worry too much about being a hindrance, or a problem. Quests like this…helping lower level players is what we do. It is how we all progress – and I am happy to bring you along.

She placed a welcoming smile upon her face, hoping it would be enough to encourage the newer player. Turning towards the door with the intent of heading out, she gave one last collection of signs towards the form of the nervous individual, hoping it would be enough to encourage them to join Acanthus and herself. Should we go and try and find some bandits? It should be a good learning experience.

She waited only long enough to get a response from the two others, before heading out of the tavern and into the street beyond. The heat washed over Nymoria as the dry, crisp air met her – no longer held back by the walls of the building they had been inside. She winced only slightly, before bracing herself and heading onwards towards the gates that would lead out of the settlement and into the world beyond.

[Wildfire 0]

Echo smiled at the two warmly. They kept telling themself that the trouble they were having concentrating was due to the oppressive heat and not their internal monologue taking their attention.

“I am happy to stay behind while you two take on the bandits, I really appreciate you taking me with you on this quest. And I’m serious, let me know if I am getting in your way at all. I think I still have a teleportation crystal around here somewhere as a gift from a frontliner.” 

I find it interesting that these two are so trusting. Though, perhaps that thought is a bit hypocritical of me, they could take me out in a heartbeat I’m sure. Still its nice of them either way. Who knows maybe I will prove useful to them still. I mean, having someone who can heal, even a small amount is better than not at all. 

Walking out of the town could be described as nothing but oppressive. The hot air hit Echo’s face like wind stirred by whispers of hell. It caught in their throat making it hard to breathe for a moment. They wipe the sweat off their brow, waiting a moment to take in their surroundings as they walk. A glint of something hits their eye ever so slightly. The glimmer barely noticeable against the bright luminescence of the lava flows. 

“Oh, uhm, E-excuse me a moment, I think I have found something, feel free to move ahead if you’d like. I’ll catch up” 

Approaching the glint, they find a small shard of black obsidian glass. It is just big enough to be formed into a crystal or perhaps ground into dust to be added to another craft. 

Well, would you look at that? Barely a step out of the town and I have already found something. Hopefully I can keep it up, would make life a bit easier once this is all said and done.

 

-------------------

WC: 324

 

ID 241276

LD: 17 (+1 T2 Mat) = 14 (Roll) + 3 (Search R3)

Edited Wednesday at 12:37 AM by Wildfire

[Acanthus 0]

Wildfire stopped, urging the pair to move on. Acanthus refused to budge. “I don’t care if we’re only just outside of town, I’m not letting you fall out of sight. Monsters may not spawn this close to Yogan Village, but it’s not impossible for them to be drawn here if a player leads them, whether on purpose or by accident.”

Arms crossed, she kept watch patiently while Wildfire dug up the small shard of obsidian. A smile began to bubble up from her chest. I remember being excited about gathering as well. And he reminds me of Ren, the way he’s so excited about these little rocks and minerals on floor nine. They might get along. Once the player pocketed their prize, Acanthus took a moment to stoop in the dirt a few meters away. Sifting through some of the loose sand, she came up with a large chunk of obsidian and a cluster of fire agate. “You have a good eye for materials. Here.” She handed the items over to Wildfire. “Stop for whatever you need. But don’t ask us to go ahead. Until we make it back to town safely, you’re our responsibility.” She hadn’t meant to rope Nymoria into the duty as well, but it had accidentally slipped out. She hoped Nymoria wouldn’t mind.

“The camp should be a few kilometers in this direction, around these rocky canyons.” She gestured past some rough hills, spewing lava. “Remember, when we get there, you stay in the back, and you keep your weapon sheathed. You should be safe if you don’t attack, but one mistake will kill you. Do you understand?”

Post Action: Gathering (why the heck not)
241407 | LD 13 + 1 | CD 3 + 2 | Critical Success! (2) materials and 1,000 col gained. (OOC: I'll distribute these to you when we close the thread)

Edited Thursday at 05:38 AM by Acanthus

[Nymoria 0]

Nymoria had stumbled onwards as the other two had come to a halt, entirely oblivious to their lack of presence at her rear. When she had noticed – nearly a dozen steps later – she’d turned with her hand on her hilt in sudden surprise and concern, before noticing the simple action that the two had partaken in. She found herself shaking her head slightly, a smile upon her face, as she thought of the ludicrous reaction she’d had this close to the walls of the village. Still, it’s good to be on guard…what if they had been in danger? At least you’d be prepared to face it, for what that’s worth. The thought was only comforting as long as she looked at the positive side, but it helped alleviate some of the silliness she felt.

The camp should not be too far from here. Keep on guard. And do as Acanthus said. She is capable. She is smart. Nymoria added what little there was to add to Acanthus’s original statement, before turning back towards the path they had chosen. She considered taking her own time to look for anything useful in the area, before remembering that they had come out here for a specific purpose. She knew most quests weren’t timed, but there was a danger in accidentally stumbling upon the bandits – even this far out – and being caught in the midst of searching the ground for something useful could be deadly. Let them search, you keep watch.

Eyes glancing in every direction, she chose instead to lead them onwards into the depths of a tunnel – one which felt oddly familiar, if Nymoria was being candid with herself. Almost looks like Cerberus’s tunnels… A quick bend in the tunnel took away any familiarity though, and Nymoria let herself relax ever so slightly. The cool air beneath the ground – now only hot enough to boil eggs within a dozen minutes upon the stonework – gave a minimal amount of relief from the otherwise searing conditions outside.

Nice and comfortable here, yes? She signed towards the other two, hoping to at least get some sort of conversation started. She was at odds with what to say, uncertain about what topics to broach as they made their way into the depths of the caverns in search of bandits terrorising a camp of workers. But that didn’t mean she was going to remain silent the entire journey.

[Wildfire 0]

“A-ah, you’re right, sorry. Got a bit carried away there.” 

They do there best to hide the blush of shame that brushed their cheeks as they take in the admonishment
“Oh I appreciate it, though I wouldn’t mind splitting what we all find. After all, if I can’t pull weight in combat I can try to help in other ways. Thats the reason I went with what I did after all, I want to help people. I also know that sometimes the best way to help is to get out of the way. If you are worried about me though I think I still have a teleport crystal I can move to my battle ready inventory.”

Following the group into the tunnel, Echo resists the urge to collapse against the wall for a time, the sweltering heat unrelenting. Instead, take a moment to lean against the wall. 

“It’s as comfortable as it can be here, it helps to be out of the sun too. Do you two find yourselves on this floor often? I feel like it is one of those that most people would avoid.”

Taking a moment to look around, they were somewhat disappointed that nothing else showed up. 

I wonder if the drops in the tunnels are different. I should probably look for fungus and not rocks here, it would likely be the only things that can survive on this floor and the most likely location too.

“I’m ready when you are, and don’t worry my hands are as far from my halberd as they can be”

Holding their hands out Echo start the process of initiating <First Aid> letting the soft white glow pool and flow adding dimly to the ambient light of the tunnel.

-------------

WC: 289

 

Gathering:

ID: 241433

LD 10 = 7 (Roll) + 3 (Search R3)

 

Stats:

Spoiler

HP 220/220 | EN 40/40 | 5 DMG | MIT 4 | 3 EVA |1 ACC| 2HP/rnd BH | LD +3 | Chest LD +1

 

Edited yesterday at 02:52 AM by Wildfire

[Acanthus 0]

Acanthus raised a single eyebrow watching Wildfire light the caves with <<First Aid>>. “That’s a clever trick. I hadn’t considered other uses for that skill,” she admitted. It was the kind of thinking that would make them a valuable addition to the frontlines.

“Do you find yourselves on this floor often?”

“Unfortunately. There are a few quests here. I’ve been down here twice to fight Cerberus, once before to take on the bandit camp. There are a few other important quests here. I wish the game designers had chosen a more scenic floor for them.” A geyser of lava erupted in the distance to enunciate her point. “And less dangerous. Watch your step, please.”

Acanthus turned her face away from the group as Nymoria complimented her. Compliments unsettled her; her only defense was redirecting them. “The same can be said of you, Nymoria. Either way, Wildfire, you’re in good hands.”
 

Spoiler

Acanthus | HP: 820/820 | EN: 80/96 | DMG: 23 | MIT:54 | ACC:5 | AA  | EVA:2 | BH:24 | VAMP-D: 41 | REC: 8 | LD:5
Nymoria | Lv. 33 | P. 2 | HP [680/680] | EN [104/104] | ACC [5] | DMG [22] | EVA [4] | BH [+37] | Bleed [36] | Keen [+1 BD] | LD [+1]
Wildfire | HP 220/220 | EN 40/40 | 5 DMG | MIT 4 | 3 EVA |1 ACC| 2HP/rnd BH | LD +3 | Chest LD +1

Post Action: TECH-F -> Bandits 1–4 (-16 (19 - 2 - 1) EN
241470 | BD 3 + 6 | Hit! 23 * 12 = 276 damage.
241471 | BD 2 + 6 | Hit! 23 * 12 = 276 damage.
241472 | BD 3 + 6 | Hit! 23 * 12 = 276 damage.
241473 | BD 8 + 6 | Hit! 23 * 12 = 276 damage.

Bandit 1 | HP: 0/250 | DMG: 125
Bandit 2 | HP: 0/250 | DMG: 125
Bandit 3 | HP: 0/250 | DMG: 125
Bandit 4 | HP: 0/250 | DMG: 125

 

Edited 12 hours ago by Acanthus