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Fantasy Tally Ho!

I think it is pretty important to be well rounded, and we could very well use an increase in HP, as well as melee damage. Therefore, I think the most logical choice would be to choose the Strength upgrade.

(I'm also wondering if this is the last we see of Ethan. It would be a waste to discard him after the time spent introducing him. Perhaps he could volunteer to go with us for a variety of reasons. Of course, this is just a suggestion; feel free to do as you please with him, especially if you had other plans in mind.)

I agree, while our best stat is intelligence, having more of the other stats is important especially when we get in situations when our magic won't be useful.
 
Hmm, might be nice to do some more questing...

My choice is the same as everyone else's, Strength - and for all the reasons already mentioned.
Increasing health by half isn't something that can be easily refused, and Elena's gonna be less out of shape as well. Could there possibly be any better option around?
 
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- Spellblade Apprentice -
" Chapter Three "
OOC

Elena had thought that her pursuers would follow her, but there must be something very intimidating about an escort of royal spellblades, because her one week journey from the mountain village to the Royal City was peaceful.

After her escape from her hometown of Oldham, King Terenas had ridden back to his castle, wary of possible assassination attempts by rogue warlocks and was three days ahead of them on the road. Sir Caterwall's company was riding slower, taking the less traveled forest trails instead of the merchant's highway.

Elena had thought that they would be staying longer in Ohldham, or that Sir Caterwall would leave to search for Mother Gothel, or investigate the keep of the Paladins of the Northern Cross, but instead he decided to escort her to the castle. He did reassure her, though, that he has his people digging for the truth back at her hometown. She probably must be more important than he let on to leave that job to someone else . . . she just hoped they'll catch Mother Gothel, put Cleaveborn in jail, or raid the paladins' keep. She couldn't help but imagine secret rituals happening in hidden dungeons, and missing villagers being sacrificed to monsters, but she trusted his words. he just hoped Hama the baker and Barry and his friends are okay.

When they arrived at the Royal City, Elena was craning her neck here and there to take on the sights. She had never seen such tall stately buildings before, and the ladies wore such fine embroidered dresses; magic seemed to be a part of daily life as well, for at the walls were floating crystals one of the spellblades told her defended the city from siege; there was also an alchemist shop, and an aviary where many messenger owls slept in cages with their backs to the sun; and in the market place there was a smith showing off his enchanted armor to a couple of nobles.

That piqued Elena's interest. "Is there an enchantment that can make one fly?" she asked one of the spellblades, a man by the name of Coal, who can conjure rings of fire.

"Nay, my lady, though there is a spell that can turn one into a bird." he said, nudging his horse to trot next to hers.

"Can you teach me that, Coal?"

He chuckled. "I would if I could, but that is advanced transfiguration, you'll be starting with turning matches to needles first, or teapots to turtles."

"It can't be that hard . . . I learned Chain Lightning easily enough."

At this Sir Caterwall swiveled to look at her. "When exactly did you learn that spell, Elena?"

Elena went red. Oh, that was so careless. Better tell the truth . . . "I-I looked at your spellbook, sir." she said meekly.

"And when you cast that spell half-asleep, was that your first time?" he said, starting to look very surprised.

"Y-yes?" said Elena, feeling like this must be some sort of rare accomplishment. Some of the nearby spellblades started to murmur to each other, impressed.

"Well, now that is something." said Sir Caterwall. "Most mages can only make a spark. Welcome to King Terenas' castle, Elena." he added, as the castle's drawbridge lowered. "And your new life as an apprentice."

That night, after she had settled in the soldier's barracks, the King met with her that night and asked her to recall exactly what happened during the day of the tournament, and unlike Sir Caterwall, he believed without question and took what she saw on Sir Cleaveborn's wrist very seriously. He thanked her for telling him all this and for accepting his offer to use her magic for the good of the kingdom, then bid her a good night's sleep because tomorrow her training was going to begin.


[1] - Everyday after training, spend a few hours running an obstacle course again and again . Removes "Out of Shape" drawback.

[2] - Work hard at footman combat. +1 to sword, clubs, hammer, shield, and heavy two-handed weapons mastery. Allows Elena to wear heavy armor.

[3] - Work hard at cavalry combat. +1 to spear, sword, axe, javelin, and horseback riding mastery. Allows Elena to wear heavy armor.

[4] - Work hard at archery. +2 to archery. Spells can be carried by arrows.

[5] - Work hard at silent take-downs. +2 to dagger and hand-to-hand combat.​


* * * *​

Meanwhile, back at Binks Village . . .

Ethan was feeding Lemon the entrails of the boar they had hunted today. It had been a week since he woke up to find out that lady, who was actually a criminal, had left with the king's men. She had forgotten to pay him his twenty-five coppers and not even a thank you note too . . . He stared, deadpanned at his dog. Next time, he was going to ask for half the payment up front.

But more importantly . . . what did Granny Katara mean about odd things happening in Oldham? Apparently he got knocked out by a spell while the king's servant and that rogue warlock were talking, but the spell didn't affect the herbalist. Rather, she pretended to fall asleep. He wasn't surprised, she had enchantments inside her hut that protected herself and her patients from danger, and now she had told all the villagers to stay away from the town and also told the elders not accept any strangers into their village.

But Ethan was curious . . . all that talk about the sword shattering, the Raven King, and people gone missing . . . it sounded very serious and he had friends in that town too. . . Maybe he should go see what's really going on in the paladins' keep . . .



- Elena Goodhart -
Health: 6/6 | Manna: 10/10 | Armor: 2
Condition: Healthy​

Spells Learned:
"Sentinel" || 2 Mp. Wards an area for 2 hours. An alarm against intrusion that warns Elena either mentally or audibly if something as large as a dog or bigger enters or touches the area. Those who speak the password do not trigger the alarm. Limit: 100 m. diameter.

"Protego" || 2 Mp. +4 Armor for one round or six seconds. A deflecting shield charm.

"Detect Magic" || 1 Mp. Sense magical wards, arcane vibes from items, people, and areas where recent arcane spells have been cast.

Sleep || Mp 3. Knocks a target out for a couple of hours.

"Chain Lightning" || 3 Mp. 4 dmg. Upon rolling an even number, lightning arcs and strikes next nearest opponent. This spell creates a very loud thunder.
Attributes:
  • Intelligence: 4
  • Strength: 2
  • Dexterity: 2
Qualities:
  • Photographic Memory: +2 Knowledge
  • Soft Spoken: +2 Persuasion
  • Loves Food: +2 Cooking
  • Wary Sleeper: Enemies have a -1 penalty when trying to attack Elena in her sleep.
Drawbacks:
  • Out of Shape: -1 Physical Endurance
  • Clumsy: -1 Stealth
  • Wolf Scar: A bite mark from the top of her nose to underneath her chin. Makes her easily identifiable.
Money: 1 silver, 30 coppers

Weapons:
Main Hand: -
Off-hand: -​

Strength damage bonus: +2​
Armor:
Head:
Torso: Healer's Garb
Legs:
Hands: Sealing Cuffs (Cannot do magic)

Dexterity armor bonus: +2​

Accessories:
Trinket I: -
Trinket II: -​

Backpack: Satchel
  1. Coin Pouch
  2. Parchment
  3. Quill and Ink
  4. Oldham History Book
 
Last edited:
Oh this is a hard choice, a lot of these are all really good choices.

1. Is most likely going to make us faster and probably have more health which can always be good.

2. Makes us better in combat with a lot of weapons. Plus we wear heavy armor.

3. Makes us better in combat with a few weapons but we can ride a horse. Again we can now wear heavy armor.

4. Can be good since we can do spells at a distance by putting them on our arrows, at least some spells. And we don't have to get into melee a lot. But I think 1-3 are better choices.

5. This can be good since we can use daggers and like CQC type stuff but nit as useful as 1-3 if you ask me.

Personally I will have to go with 3 mainly for the benefit of riding a horse.
 
I agree with the choice of 3 since our magic already serves as long range combat, so it would be useful to hone our close combat skills, which narrows it down to choices 2, 3 and 5. However, I decided that 5 was out of the question as our clumsy drawback negates some of that training, and I feel that our magic is best served in direct confrontations. That left choices 2 and 3, and I would prefer the advantages of being mobile on horseback since that allows us to utilize our ranged magic to it's full potential.
 
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- Ethan Hunt -
" Northern Cross Keep "

The keep of the Paladins of the Northern Cross was an hour away on horseback from Binks Village, but a nimble mountain man who knows the trails the wolves of the forest take can cross the treacherous ridges of the Barrigith Mountains and arrive at half that time. And so Ethan looked down from his high perch on the windswept mountain top on a cool early morning, the sky still a shadowed purple, where in the distant east it was lightening to a periwinkle blue. Dawn was coming, and today was the day he was determined to know the secrets of this place.

It's been almost a month since his encounter with the rogue warlock.People in his village started disappearing. It started with lost goats, and then other hunters started not coming back home. Three people have been missing now. They say it's monsters as they are very numerous at this time of the year, but hunters of Binks Village know their mountain home the way city folks know their neighborhood. They know the safe paths and what to avoid. Granny Kora was cautioning everyone to come home early and only go to the forest in the day now, which they heeded, but not Ethan. He knows that if there were any answers to be had to keep his friends, dog, and family safe, it was here in the keep, and there was no other way to try to break into the place without being spotted except through the ridge where common men cannot climb down from without the aid of ropes or magic. He had been watching the patrols, and he knew that it was at this time that they were going to switch. He had a small window of opportunity to go down without being caught.

"Here goes." he said, whispering a prayer to the gods for luck.

Wedging his fingers between a crack in the steep cliff. He began to slowly climb down, stopping when he thought one of the watching warriors looked his way. He kept close to the side of the boulders so as not to show a human outline, careful not to send rocks cascading down below and alerting them of his presence. With a soft thump he landed on the battlements, the silently slunk away into the shadows.

[1] - Go to the Underground dungeons.

[2] - Go to Paladin Cleaveborn's room at the highest tower.

[3] - Stay hidden and wait to see if something happens.

[4] - ? (Readers feel free to control Ethan)

- Ethan Hunt -
Health: 10/10 | Manna: 1/1 | Armor: 6
Condition: Healthy​

Spells Learned:
None
Attributes:
  • Intelligence: 0
  • Strength: 4
  • Dexterity: 4
Qualities:
  • Eagle Eye: +2 Archery
  • Cat-like Stealth: +2 Sneak and acrobatics.
  • Good with Animals: +2 Tame
Drawbacks:
  • Trusting: -1 seeing through disguises and lies.
  • Uneducated: Cannot read, write, nor do complex math. But he knows enough symbols such as relating to trade and money to get by without hassle. He's also got a very obvious mountain man accent.
Money: 0
Weapons:
Main Hand: - Bow and arrows, 3 damage.
Off-hand: - Dagger, total: 5 damage.​

Strength damage bonus: +4​
Armor:
Head: Hooded Cloak
Torso: Animal Hide Armor, +2 armor
Legs: Padded Boots, +1 sneak
Hands: Fur Gloves

Dexterity armor bonus: +4​

Accessories:
Trinket I: -
Trinket II: -​

Backpack: Rucksack
  1. x3 daggers
  2. Water skin
  3. x1 Smoked Deer meat.

- Elena Goodhart -
Health: 6/6 | Manna: 10/10 | Armor: 2
Condition: Healthy​

Spells Learned:
"Sentinel" || 2 Mp. Wards an area for 2 hours. An alarm against intrusion that warns Elena either mentally or audibly if something as large as a dog or bigger enters or touches the area. Those who speak the password do not trigger the alarm. Limit: 100 m. diameter.

"Protego" || 2 Mp. +4 Armor for one round or six seconds. A deflecting shield charm.

"Detect Magic" || 1 Mp. Sense magical wards, arcane vibes from items, people, and areas where recent arcane spells have been cast.

Sleep || Mp 3. Knocks a target out for a couple of hours.

"Chain Lightning" || 3 Mp. 4 dmg. Upon rolling an even number, lightning arcs and strikes next nearest opponent. This spell creates a very loud thunder.
Attributes:
  • Intelligence: 4
  • Strength: 2
  • Dexterity: 2
Qualities:
  • Photographic Memory: +2 Knowledge
  • Soft Spoken: +2 Persuasion
  • Loves Food: +2 Cooking
  • Wary Sleeper: Enemies have a -1 penalty when trying to attack Elena in her sleep.
  • Cavalry Combat I: +1 to spear, sword, axe, javelin, and horseback riding mastery. Allows Elena to wear heavy armor.
Drawbacks:
  • Out of Shape: -1 Physical Endurance
  • Clumsy: -1 Stealth
  • Wolf Scar: A bite mark from the top of her nose to underneath her chin. Makes her easily identifiable.
Money: 1 silver, 30 coppers

Weapons:
Main Hand: -
Off-hand: -​

Strength damage bonus: +2​
Armor:
Head:
Torso: Healer's Garb
Legs:
Hands: Sealing Cuffs (Cannot do magic)

Dexterity armor bonus: +2​

Accessories:
Trinket I: -
Trinket II: -​

Backpack: Satchel
  1. Coin Pouch
  2. Parchment
  3. Quill and Ink
  4. Oldham History Book
 
Hmmm. The best place to look for missing people is usually in the dungeon. Yet waiting might give us information.

I would say 1. Because it seems like the best place to start looking.
 
Hmmm. The best place to look for missing people is usually in the dungeon. Yet waiting might give us information.

I would say 1. Because it seems like the best place to start looking.
All the points I considered are already stated, so I wholeheartedly agree.
 
595f31f3eda222983fbb1457a8afa238--fantasy-artwork-dark-fantasy.jpg
- Dungeons -
" Northern Cross Keep "

Down the dungeons he went. He did not know where to go from the inside of the keep and thought it unlikely he could fool the guards with a disguise, so he made his way down the waterways, held his breath, then crawled through a rushing smelly canal, where gasping for breath two minutes later, he emerged sopping wet beneath what he could surmise was an outer courtyard. He wandered quietly for a while, stepping on the rocks as much as possible so as not to make splashy footsteps, as he looked for a passageway into the main stronghold, until he came upon sounds of muffled harsh chanting.

Curious, he followed the voices, then found himself looking up through iron bars, into a dimly lit stone chamber where all around floating candles cast an eerie orange glow upon many, many hooded faces. Ethan knew a couple of those faces. Those were paladins who took turns going on patrols around the mountains, and there at the center was Cleaveborn with an ancient book in his hand. There was a heaviness growing in the air, and it seemed to be getting colder and colder. Something was coming.

" . . . for the freedom of the slaves . . . end of the meaningless deaths of our youths . . ." chanted the paladins, "and of the heavy taxes on the poor under the iron grip of a war hungry king, we come to you, our strength, for the promised peace you will bring . . ."

"And as proof of our faith, we give what is dear." finished Cleaveborn grimly. There was the unmistakable sound of hacking steel against bone and something heavy fell on the stone floor. Ethan watched as something dark dripped down from the bars above and down on his arm. It was blood. Heart hammering, he slowly moved sideways to avoid the dripping, careful not to make any splashes.

Somewhere, someone stifled a sob.

Then a suffocating heaviness swept over Ethan, as a shadow dimmed the lights of the chamber.

"I am here. I have come."
whispered a voice that was everywhere and yet nowhere. This was bad. He did not know how he can explain it, but he felt like a rabbit that had wandered into a wolf's den and something he did not understand was here. Something deceitful and ancient. And he felt like he might get caught.

"Master, we have all the pieces of the sword, but no smith can forge it whole. It simply doesn't come together." said Cleaveborn's voice. "We have tried everything this last month."

"That sword that sealed me, is the sword that will free me. Did you not find the one who shattered it!? That knight ?!"

" He disappeared, my lord, after the tournament Ulrick left leaving his armor and shield behind. We did not know where he went." said Cleaveborn. "His lineage was a lie, he did not come from Harkenshire and there is no Thickvein clan in the country."

"His magic is the answer. Have you summoned me for nothing?" seethed the voice.

"No, there is one more. The woman, Goodhart, perhaps it wasn't Thickvein who shattered the sword, I sensed no magic in him --- but her, she saw my mark when only those you blessed could see it. And her magic is strong. Rough around the edges, but strong. She is in the King's castle, with too many guards watching over her. Allow us to ask once more for your power and we will bring her to you without fail."

"You are grasping on straws." sneered the voice. "You know it was not her. Strong magic it may be, but she is ignorant."

"She could be pretending to be an amateur at magic."

"Find that knight, you fool. I will grant you my power to see as no mortal can see, in return, bring me more souls. If you prove worthless to me after all, your blood and the blood of your brothers will stain these floors."

The heaviness was lifted as the shadow swiftly entered the paladins. Ethan saw them inhale the blackness and for a moment their eyes turned black as night ----


[1] - Don't really know what's going on, but it is not good and it's better to kill the leader right. now. Even if it kills Ethan. Shoot Cleaveborn through the bars. (Archery Difficulty = Must roll 14 or higher)​
[2] - Better quietly get out now. (Stealth Difficulty = Must roll 18 or higher)​
[3] - Wait and see what happens.​
[4] - ? (Readers, feel free to control Ethan)


- Ethan Hunt -
Health: 10/10 | Manna: 1/1 | Armor: 6
Condition: Healthy​

Spells Learned:
None
Attributes:
  • Intelligence: 0
  • Strength: 4
  • Dexterity: 4
Qualities:
  • Eagle Eye: +2 Archery
  • Cat-like Stealth: +2 Sneak and acrobatics.
  • Good with Animals: +2 Tame
Drawbacks:
  • Trusting: -1 seeing through disguises and lies.
  • Uneducated: Cannot read, write, nor do complex math. But he knows enough symbols such as relating to trade and money to get by without hassle. He's also got a very obvious mountain man accent.
Money: 0
Weapons:
Main Hand: - Bow and arrows, 3 damage.​
Off-hand: - Dagger, total: 5 damage.​

Strength damage bonus: +4​
Armor:
Head: Hooded Cloak​
Torso: Animal Hide Armor, +2 armor​
Legs: Padded Boots, +1 sneak​
Hands: Fur Gloves​
Dexterity armor bonus: +4​

Accessories:
Trinket I: -​
Trinket II: -​

Backpack: Rucksack
  1. x3 daggers
  2. Water skin
  3. x1 Smoked Deer meat.

- Elena Goodhart -
Health: 6/6 | Manna: 10/10 | Armor: 2
Condition: Healthy​

Spells Learned:
"Sentinel" || 2 Mp. Wards an area for 2 hours. An alarm against intrusion that warns Elena either mentally or audibly if something as large as a dog or bigger enters or touches the area. Those who speak the password do not trigger the alarm. Limit: 100 m. diameter.

"Protego" || 2 Mp. +4 Armor for one round or six seconds. A deflecting shield charm.

"Detect Magic" || 1 Mp. Sense magical wards, arcane vibes from items, people, and areas where recent arcane spells have been cast.

Sleep || Mp 3. Knocks a target out for a couple of hours.

"Chain Lightning" || 3 Mp. 4 dmg. Upon rolling an even number, lightning arcs and strikes next nearest opponent. This spell creates a very loud thunder.
Attributes:
  • Intelligence: 4
  • Strength: 2
  • Dexterity: 2
Qualities:
  • Photographic Memory: +2 Knowledge
  • Soft Spoken: +2 Persuasion
  • Loves Food: +2 Cooking
  • Wary Sleeper: Enemies have a -1 penalty when trying to attack Elena in her sleep.
  • Cavalry Combat I: +1 to spear, sword, axe, javelin, and horseback riding mastery. Allows Elena to wear heavy armor.
Drawbacks:
  • Out of Shape: -1 Physical Endurance
  • Clumsy: -1 Stealth
  • Wolf Scar: A bite mark from the top of her nose to underneath her chin. Makes her easily identifiable.
Money: 1 silver, 30 coppers

Weapons:
Main Hand: -​
Off-hand: -​

Strength damage bonus: +2​
Armor:
Head:​
Torso: Healer's Garb​
Legs:​
Hands: Sealing Cuffs (Cannot do magic)​
Dexterity armor bonus: +2​

Accessories:
Trinket I: -​
Trinket II: -​

Backpack: Satchel
  1. Coin Pouch
  2. Parchment
  3. Quill and Ink
  4. Oldham History Book
 
I'm stuck between 3. And 1.

If we do 1 we may have a chance at stopping the ritual, or have the entire stronghold against us.

With 3 we may discover what they become, and may get out unscathed but we don't do something.

Fuck it, let's go balls to the wall. I'm going with 1.
 
Damn, it would be a shame if Ethan dies here and now, let's hope the plot armour is in top condition.

Nonetheless, I would still prefer to play it safe, so my choice is
3.
 

- Sewers -
" Northern Cross Keep "


Swoosh

For a moment one of the paladins blinked, touching his face where blood had suddenly splattered it; Cleaveborn crumpled to the floor, red gushing from his neck, and there was a moment where everyone just stared ---

"TRAITOR!"

Shouting and chaos erupted behind Ethan as he ran through the wet tunnels. They seemed to think one of their own had done it; the fortress sounded the alarm and this time he slowed down masking his wet footsteps with those moving above.

He had killed Paladin Cleaveborn . . . he had murdered a man. No, not a man. A monster. It was all true. They were serving the Raven King, and he has to warn everyone. Suddenly, he heard one of the running footsteps stop right above him. He froze. There was a heavy grunt and next thing he knew the shattering of rocks erupted above him as the ceiling caved down.

Damaged! Ethan -2 Hp


Heavy rocks slammed on his back as he stumbled forward, half buried in the rubble. He scrambled up, wondering how in the world did they know he was here? He knocked an arrow quickly, facing the streak of sunlight pouring through the hole.

BOOM

Meters away, the ceiling behind him shattered down as well. Enemies will come out from both sides and trap him, was his immediate thought.

Twang, went his bow as the silhouette of an armored man dropped heavily from the streak of light close by, Ethan's arrow taking off an ear before a great steel shield covered the paladin's torso. The armored man's fierce eyes behind the helm were jet black and he held a heavy hammer glowing with fire enchantments in his hand; Ethan quickly knocked another arrow, as his foe charged.

[1] - Stand his ground and fight. (Archery Difficulty = Must roll 19 or higher )​
[2] - There are probably still prisoners back there where they did the ritual. If he's going to die here, might as well bust this whole secrecy wide open and set them free. Even if they all die, if they can get to the outside someone would notice, right? Not all of the Paladins serve the Raven King, right? (Dexterity Difficulty = Must roll 18 or higher.)​
[3] - Just get a horse and get out of here! (Dexterity Difficultty = Must roll 18 or higher)​
[4] - ? (Readers feel free to control Ethan)

Since there's no dice roller for RPN yet, I'll just roll in another site and paste the results here. Barely made it!

1.jpg
- Ethan Hunt -
Health: 8/10 | Manna: 1/1 | Armor: 6
Condition: Healthy​

Spells Learned:
None
Attributes:
  • Intelligence: 0
  • Strength: 4
  • Dexterity: 4
Qualities:
  • Eagle Eye: +2 Archery
  • Cat-like Stealth: +2 Sneak and acrobatics.
  • Good with Animals: +2 Tame
Drawbacks:
  • Trusting: -1 seeing through disguises and lies.
  • Uneducated: Cannot read, write, nor do complex math. But he knows enough symbols such as relating to trade and money to get by without hassle. He's also got a very obvious mountain man accent.
Money: 0
Weapons:
Main Hand: - Bow and arrows, 3 damage.​
Off-hand: - Dagger, total: 5 damage.​

Strength damage bonus: +4​
Armor:
Head: Hooded Cloak​
Torso: Animal Hide Armor, +2 armor​
Legs: Padded Boots, +1 sneak​
Hands: Fur Gloves​
Dexterity armor bonus: +4​

Accessories:
Trinket I: -​
Trinket II: -​

Backpack: Rucksack
  1. x3 daggers
  2. Water skin
  3. x1 Smoked Deer meat.

- Elena Goodhart -
Health: 6/6 | Manna: 10/10 | Armor: 2
Condition: Healthy​

Spells Learned:
"Sentinel" || 2 Mp. Wards an area for 2 hours. An alarm against intrusion that warns Elena either mentally or audibly if something as large as a dog or bigger enters or touches the area. Those who speak the password do not trigger the alarm. Limit: 100 m. diameter.

"Protego" || 2 Mp. +4 Armor for one round or six seconds. A deflecting shield charm.

"Detect Magic" || 1 Mp. Sense magical wards, arcane vibes from items, people, and areas where recent arcane spells have been cast.

Sleep || Mp 3. Knocks a target out for a couple of hours.

"Chain Lightning" || 3 Mp. 4 dmg. Upon rolling an even number, lightning arcs and strikes next nearest opponent. This spell creates a very loud thunder.
Attributes:
  • Intelligence: 4
  • Strength: 2
  • Dexterity: 2
Qualities:
  • Photographic Memory: +2 Knowledge
  • Soft Spoken: +2 Persuasion
  • Loves Food: +2 Cooking
  • Wary Sleeper: Enemies have a -1 penalty when trying to attack Elena in her sleep.
  • Cavalry Combat I: +1 to spear, sword, axe, javelin, and horseback riding mastery. Allows Elena to wear heavy armor.
Drawbacks:
  • Out of Shape: -1 Physical Endurance
  • Clumsy: -1 Stealth
  • Wolf Scar: A bite mark from the top of her nose to underneath her chin. Makes her easily identifiable.
Money: 1 silver, 30 coppers

Weapons:
Main Hand: -​
Off-hand: -​

Strength damage bonus: +2​
Armor:
Head:​
Torso: Healer's Garb​
Legs:​
Hands: Sealing Cuffs (Cannot do magic)​
Dexterity armor bonus: +2​

Accessories:
Trinket I: -​
Trinket II: -​

Backpack: Satchel
  1. Coin Pouch
  2. Parchment
  3. Quill and Ink
  4. Oldham History Book
 
Gosh, I look at these difficulty checks and it's like "holy crap we gotta roll like a legend for these" but nah we have like a +6 modifier to literally everything ez

Damn... damn, man, these are all difficult to succeed, but I guess this is the way it's going to have to go.
Well, Ethan Hunt ain't gonna run, based on the two choices we've made so far. The only options I can see happening outside of a write-in are fighting the armor-all head on or busting everyone out of this joint.

I'm currently leaning towards seeing how the Paladins are going to deal with the prison breakout Ethan Hunt is about to start.
 
Gosh, I look at these difficulty checks and it's like "holy crap we gotta roll like a legend for these" but nah we have like a +6 modifier to literally everything ez

Damn... damn, man, these are all difficult to succeed, but I guess this is the way it's going to have to go.
Well, Ethan Hunt ain't gonna run, based on the two choices we've made so far. The only options I can see happening outside of a write-in are fighting the armor-all head on or busting everyone out of this joint.

I'm currently leaning towards seeing how the Paladins are going to deal with the prison breakout Ethan Hunt is about to start.
I agree, Its more fun than just running.
 
We have a +4 for dexterity, compared to +2 for archery, so I think we should go with the one that has a higher chance to succeed. Of the two dexterity choices, the prison break one appeals to me more, since I've always enjoyed prison break scenes in movies. Plus, it seems like it offers a better chance at survival: even if we killed the paladin, there would be many more after us, but now we (theoretically) have some people(prisoners) on our side.

2.
 
Assassins_Creed_Unity_Concept_Art_Gilles_Beloeil_06a.jpg
- Moon Goddess Shrine -
" Northern Cross Keep "

Clunk

His arrow bounced off the shield, as he retreated, unclasping the brooch of his cloak as he went. He heard a heavy splash behind him as another foe dropped down from the second hole, this one with a shield and ebony eyes as well. And he suddenly remembered what that thing he heard had said: ' . . . I will grant you my power to see as no mortal can see . . . '

Well, time to test it. He flung his cloak at the paladin in front of him, as the man swung his hammer. Ethan made for a for a sliding side dash and --- was nearly flattened to the wall by the shield! The man can see! But he got pass him! He sprinted immediately for cover.

"The little rat is quick!" said one of them angrily.

"Red Blaze!" yelled the other.

Orange light shone on the walls, as smoke and fire engulfed Ethan's back.

Damaged! Ethan -1 Hp


He was in flames and as soon as he turned the corner, dropped and rolled on the water, before scrambling back up, his neck and the back of his head stinging in pain. He smelled burned flesh and hair. Wincing, he continued putting distance between him and his pursuers who were slowed by their heavy armor. He heard footsteps following him from above and cries of sending more men to the keep.

What he was planning was crazy, but if he could free the prisoners and they could get outside, people would at least know what's going on. Hopefully, not all the paladins follow the Raven King. He can survive this yet.

Panting, he arrived back at the ritual chamber. At least for the moment he didn't hear anyone close by, odd that they didn't leave at least one person here. But Ethan wasn't complaining, and as he quickly looked for a way in, he caught the stench of decay. He immediately followed it into another tunnel and discovered a couple of half-rotten carcasses, townsfolk by the look of their clothes, piled against the wall. He shook his head at the sight.

He looked up and saw wooden planks among the stones. That might be a trap door where they dumped bodies down to the sewers. Hopeful, he climbed up the slippery walls, then carefully pushed open the door.

Now that he had a better look of the place, the chamber looked like a temple. But not to the Raven King, to the Goddess of the Moon. The people believed that it was she who had given them the legendary sword to vanquish the evil warlord. Yet why does this place feel malevolent instead of peaceful? He hoped that thing they summoned wasn't here anymore.

Cleaveborn's still body lay in a pool of blood next to a woman's who looked like someone from town. Ethan quickly took the paladin's sword and searched his pockets for anything useful and was rewarded with keys, crumpled bloody papers, and a ring. Then something reflecting the light of the torches on the ground caught his eye. It seemed to be a blade shard.

He picked it up just as he heard sniveling. He sharply pointed his bow and arrow to the side. There, in the dark corners were cells. And inside, emaciated prisoners.

"Hey, hey, I'm here to get you all out." said Ethan, rushing over to them and quickly tried all the keys on the lock, but they just shook their heads, dismayed, as though they wanted to speak but dared not to.

"It's a trap!" yelled one old man who couldn't take it anymore.

Sharp pain shot through Ethan's knee. And he quickly dove to the side behind a pillar, as hidden paladins emerged from the shadows; an arrow was sticking out from the flesh.

Damaged! Ethan -2 Hp


"It is over. Surrender, assassin." said a voice.


[1] - Fight to the death (Archery Difficulty = Must roll 19 or higher)​
[2] - He had dropped the keys by the prisoners cells. Rouse them with a speech to fight! Fiiiiight!!! (Speech Difficulty = Must roll 16 or higher)​
[3] - Pray to the Moon Goddess for a miracle. (All readers give one number each. If the roll lands on any of the numbers you give, Ethan will, die but there will be three consolation choices.)​
[4] - ? (Readers feel free to control Ethan)

1.jpg
- Ethan Hunt -
Health: 5/10 | Manna: 1/1 | Armor: 6
Condition: Healthy​

Spells Learned:
None
Attributes:
  • Intelligence: 0
  • Strength: 4
  • Dexterity: 4
Qualities:
  • Eagle Eye: +2 Archery
  • Cat-like Stealth: +2 Sneak and acrobatics.
  • Good with Animals: +2 Tame
Drawbacks:
  • Trusting: -1 seeing through disguises and lies.
  • Uneducated: Cannot read, write, nor do complex math. But he knows enough symbols such as relating to trade and money to get by without hassle. He's also got a very obvious mountain man accent.
Money: 0
Weapons:
Main Hand: - Bow and arrows, 3 damage.​
Off-hand: - Dagger, total: 5 damage.​

Strength damage bonus: +4​
Armor:
Head: Hooded Cloak​
Torso: Animal Hide Armor, +2 armor​
Legs: Padded Boots, +1 sneak​
Hands: Fur Gloves​
Dexterity armor bonus: +4​

Accessories:
Trinket I: -​
Trinket II: -​

Backpack: Rucksack
  1. x3 daggers
  2. Water skin
  3. x1 Smoked Deer meat.

- Elena Goodhart -
Health: 6/6 | Manna: 10/10 | Armor: 2
Condition: Healthy​

Spells Learned:
"Sentinel" || 2 Mp. Wards an area for 2 hours. An alarm against intrusion that warns Elena either mentally or audibly if something as large as a dog or bigger enters or touches the area. Those who speak the password do not trigger the alarm. Limit: 100 m. diameter.

"Protego" || 2 Mp. +4 Armor for one round or six seconds. A deflecting shield charm.

"Detect Magic" || 1 Mp. Sense magical wards, arcane vibes from items, people, and areas where recent arcane spells have been cast.

Sleep || Mp 3. Knocks a target out for a couple of hours.

"Chain Lightning" || 3 Mp. 4 dmg. Upon rolling an even number, lightning arcs and strikes next nearest opponent. This spell creates a very loud thunder.
Attributes:
  • Intelligence: 4
  • Strength: 2
  • Dexterity: 2
Qualities:
  • Photographic Memory: +2 Knowledge
  • Soft Spoken: +2 Persuasion
  • Loves Food: +2 Cooking
  • Wary Sleeper: Enemies have a -1 penalty when trying to attack Elena in her sleep.
  • Cavalry Combat I: +1 to spear, sword, axe, javelin, and horseback riding mastery. Allows Elena to wear heavy armor.
Drawbacks:
  • Out of Shape: -1 Physical Endurance
  • Clumsy: -1 Stealth
  • Wolf Scar: A bite mark from the top of her nose to underneath her chin. Makes her easily identifiable.
Money: 1 silver, 30 coppers

Weapons:
Main Hand: -​
Off-hand: -​

Strength damage bonus: +2​
Armor:
Head:​
Torso: Healer's Garb​
Legs:​
Hands: Sealing Cuffs (Cannot do magic)​
Dexterity armor bonus: +2​

Accessories:
Trinket I: -​
Trinket II: -​

Backpack: Satchel
  1. Coin Pouch
  2. Parchment
  3. Quill and Ink
  4. Oldham History Book
 
I like Ethan too much for me to choose the option that will make him fight heroically to the death. Plus, it doesn't seem like this choice will help us stop the Raven King in any way, so I rather not waste Ethan in a futile effort.

Considering that the prisoners are described as emancipated, I don't think they will be able to escape the cell, much less put up a fight against highly trained, heavily armoured foes that are entrenched in good positions. Choosing this option would mean sending them to their deaths (although they are probably going to be sacrificed sooner or later), and it won't help our cause at all.

I much rather take my chances with the Moon goddess: if she sent the sword before, surely she could intervene again. (Plus, it's a dice roll, so we know that there is a good chance she will help). My number: 8
 
Yes, I think we'll probably just die if we pick the first option, and the second option is probably a worse difficulty with a worse result from what I can tell.

So we're going to pray to the RNG goddess Moon Goddess and get us that miracle. I'm throwing in the luckiest of numbers: 4.
 
- Moon Goddess Shrine -
" Northern Cross Keep "

With a sharp hiss of pain, Ethan broke the arrow head and pulled it out. He threw the bloody stick across the floor. "Why are you killing all these people?! You're paladins of the Northern Cross, you're supposed to be protecting us!" he yelled, his voice echoing around the chamber.

He heard them spreading out quickly, probably hiding behind the other pillars. He dared sneak a peek, only to duck back again as arrows whooshed pass his ear; Ethan responded with a shot of his own that rebounded off their armor. He saw five coming for him, and one guarding the door; below, he heard the ones from the underground finally arriving.

"Who are you and who sent you?!" said a paladin. "Answer and your death will be quick!"

"I came of my own choice. I am one of the people and my friends know I'm here. Stop this, your leader is dead, you do not have to serve a monster."

"The true monster sits on the throne. While the king wages wars, the heavy taxes suck the life out the people and fathers bury their sons who die in war. You chose the wrong side to anger, boy, Paladin Cleaveborn will be avenged --- take him!"

Ethan prayed for a miracle. He really did, with all his heart and soul, but as they did battle in the chamber, arrows flying, spells cracking the rocks in front of the statue of the moon goddess, he didn't feel like he was heard. He felled one enemy, an arrow into the gaps of his helm, then clashed swords with another --- but his darn knee. A third foe slashed him from behind and he stumbled forward, leaning against the wall, bloody, but still fighting.


[1] - Take his own life. At least, if they plan to capture him, they won't be able to get anything out of him through torture.​
[2] - Fight to the death.​


* * * *
Meanwhile, in Binks village, Lemon the hound looked up in the direction of the village entrance. A messenger on horseback had arrived with a delivery. The dog didn't understand what was happening, but something that sounded like the chinking of coins was being passed to his master's mother.

In the King's palace in the royal city. Elena wiped the sweat from her brow as she sat atop her horse, taking a break from today's training. In her hand was a spear she wouldn't have been able to carry a month ago, but was now being held in one hand with ease while the other held a round shield. That huntsman should have received the money she had owed him by now, together with a letter asking him how he was and if he fancied working for the king.

Sir Caterwall had asked Elena what she wanted as a reward for retrieving the sword shard. Because her friends had been missing from the prison in the paladin's keep, she had decided to ask for something for Ethan instead. She hadn't forgotten how he had saved her life, and looked forward to hearing his reply.

1.jpg

- Elena Goodhart -
Health: 6/6 | Manna: 10/10 | Armor: 2
Condition: Healthy​

Spells Learned:
"Sentinel" || 2 Mp. Wards an area for 2 hours. An alarm against intrusion that warns Elena either mentally or audibly if something as large as a dog or bigger enters or touches the area. Those who speak the password do not trigger the alarm. Limit: 100 m. diameter.

"Protego" || 2 Mp. +4 Armor for one round or six seconds. A deflecting shield charm.

"Detect Magic" || 1 Mp. Sense magical wards, arcane vibes from items, people, and areas where recent arcane spells have been cast.

Sleep || Mp 3. Knocks a target out for a couple of hours.

"Chain Lightning" || 3 Mp. 4 dmg. Upon rolling an even number, lightning arcs and strikes next nearest opponent. This spell creates a very loud thunder.
Attributes:
  • Intelligence: 4
  • Strength: 2
  • Dexterity: 2
Qualities:
  • Photographic Memory: +2 Knowledge
  • Soft Spoken: +2 Persuasion
  • Loves Food: +2 Cooking
  • Wary Sleeper: Enemies have a -1 penalty when trying to attack Elena in her sleep.
  • Cavalry Combat I: +1 to spear, sword, axe, javelin, and horseback riding mastery. Allows Elena to wear heavy armor.
Drawbacks:
  • Out of Shape: -1 Physical Endurance
  • Clumsy: -1 Stealth
  • Wolf Scar: A bite mark from the top of her nose to underneath her chin. Makes her easily identifiable.
Money: 1 silver, 30 coppers

Weapons:
Main Hand: -​
Off-hand: -​

Strength damage bonus: +2​
Armor:
Head:​
Torso: Healer's Garb​
Legs:​
Hands: Sealing Cuffs (Cannot do magic)​
Dexterity armor bonus: +2​

Accessories:
Trinket I: -​
Trinket II: -​

Backpack: Satchel
  1. Coin Pouch
  2. Parchment
  3. Quill and Ink
  4. Oldham History Book
 
Damn. Well, Ethan's done what he could, and even though he's losing his life in the end he'll fall knowing Cleaveborn won't be cleaving any longer.

Can't do much more at this point, and torture is definitely not a healthy alternative, so it's time for Ethan to end his story like a true assassin - and take his own life.
 
(Wait, we rolled a 7, that should mean our prayers are answered right? "All readers give one number each. If the roll lands on any of the numbers you give, Ethan will, die but there will be three consolation choices." I just assumed the comma was misplaced, meaning that if the roll lands on any of the numbers, Ethan will die but with three consolation choices, or was it just unfinished?)

Seems more heroic to fight to the death. If there is only one outcome, might as well take as many of the bastards with you as you can.
 
(Wait, we rolled a 7, that should mean our prayers are answered right? "All readers give one number each. If the roll lands on any of the numbers you give, Ethan will, die but there will be three consolation choices." I just assumed the comma was misplaced, meaning that if the roll lands on any of the numbers, Ethan will die but with three consolation choices, or was it just unfinished?)

Seems more heroic to fight to the death. If there is only one outcome, might as well take as many of the bastards with you as you can.
Nah, not answered. Nobody gave a number 7. So, no consolation choices either since it only applied if the roll landed on one of the numbers given.
 

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