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Fantasy The Blood Price, An Adventurer's Guild

KaleYeah

KaleYeah

The Blood Price GM
The Blood Price, An Adventurer's Guild
The country of Avarice is aptly known as the land where anyone can get what they want. Riches, women, fame; if it can be desired, it can be owned. Kings usurp the throne, men are killed for fame and fortune, and the beasts of the world strive to end it all. Truly, this is a world where the heart’s desire is ever before your grasp. Foremost among the dream chasers are the adventurers who seek glory, fame, fortune, and power through the infamous guild The Blood Price.

The Blood Price is one of the three foundational pillars in Avarice, as are the High King, and the Patriarch. The King minds the people, securing their welfare; the Patriarch offers spiritual guidance and protect their heart; the Guild, funded by the High King and the Patriarch, serve as a body of Avarice, giving the people the tools necessary to survive. From protecting the streets to exploring lost regions, adventurers exchange their lives for their own desires while providing a pivotal role to society’s greater needs. Together, the Three Pillars ensure the safety of Avarice and its prosperity.

The last century has been, as far as history is concerned, peaceful. Wars have been limited to skirmishes amongst lesser lords, food is plentiful, and evil has gained no ground. Yet, dark things move in the shadow. Movement has been reported from the Darklands in the Southern countries across the Iron Sea, the beasts mobilizing some effort; to the East, political instability grows and wars of succession underway in the lands of Nobu. But all is safe in Avarice.

The capital of Avarice is Luxa, home to the Three Pillars, a city of prosperity. The people are happy and laughter is echos in the streets. For every year of peace, the need for adventurers decreases. The risk simply not worth the reward. However, there are those that the call of the adventurer is too strong. Unable to resist, those that answer gather in Luxa and head for the Blood Price.

Nestled in the northernmost district of Luxa lies the fantastically grandeur building, where thousands of adventurers pass through the rich mahogany chambers. The entrance to the Blood Price are two large crimson doors, as tall as three men and thrice as heavy; accented in gold, from the ornate handles to the hinges, the building exuberates an air of refined dignity. The doors are to remain ever opened to those that seek its halls.

Once through the gateway, adventurers are greeted with banners hanging from the rafters depicting the image of former famed adventurers. Daerlon the Immortal, Jean the Fierce, and Fae the Mystic were legends in their own time and are now revered as renowned adventurers and heroes.

Just below the banners is the Broker, manager and operator of the front house and liaison for adventurer needs. Missions, information, and materials can be acquired through the Broker and his network.

Gathered in these halls are the adventurers, from both near and far, that have the desire to fulfill their dreams, to fulfill their greed. Here, in the halls that have cultivated legends, one must move forward and pay the Blood Price.

Note
Please write your introductory post including a description of your character, how they got to Luxa and the Blood Price, and their motivations for becoming an adventurer, concluding with your character entering the Blood Price and engaging the Broker. This will serve as both an introduction and an in-character writing sample. Have fun and see you in Avarice!


Links
links
Interest Check: https://www.rpnation.com/threads/the-blood-price-an-adventurers-guild-interest-check.353592/
Character Sheets: https://www.rpnation.com/threads/the-blood-price-character-sheets.353617/
World Map and Lore: https://www.rpnation.com/threads/th...guild-world-map-and-lore.354557/#post-8195517
Out of Character: https://www.rpnation.com/threads/the-blood-price-an-adventurers-guild-out-of-character-chat.354547/
In-Game: https://www.rpnation.com/threads/the-blood-price-an-adventurers-guild.354441/
 
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"Behind every great legend, there his story, weaved and crafted by the bards who came before us. Adventurers have their destinies and fulfill them, doing great things. But without the bard, his achievements are all for naught, his legacy disappears forever. That is why the bard is so important... They say heroes make history, but it is us who truly create the real histories for them..." The words of Peri's father telling her this still remain with her to this day. Creating and retelling epic tales through song was the business of her family for many generations. Before Peri could talk, she could sing; before she was walking, she was up and dancing. Performing was what she was born to do, what she was best at, as it all ran in her blood.

She grew up traveling all throughout Avarice with her father and his traveling performance troupe. Peri fell in love with the music, but she became skeptical at the stories. Some adventurers sung about were ones she met, not nearly as honorable, brave, or noble, but rather selfish and reckless glory chasers wanting fame, fortune, or even just women. Of course, in such an age of peace in the land, it was to an extent understandable. There was not much opportunity for those with real noble intentions. But even so, Peri was determined to find someone really worthy of becoming a legend, someone who could really give her a story worth singing about. When she was old enough, she left her father to make it out on her own. In about her first month on the road, she came across a dungeon, where she found Lionel, a silent but lively puppet that became her partner and close friend.

Peri traveled around for a bit, joining adventurers who came to commission her for songs about themselves. She would follow them on their journeys, keeping back and letting them do their work while giving them the occasional support, and instead of taking a portion of their quarry or found loot, she would be paid a set price in advance for a song about their journey afterwards. But more often than not, her songs would end up not sitting well with her clients. It turned out that many did not share her sense of humor and did not take well to being made into satires and laughing stocks among whole taverns and towns. It was one day that an angry adventurer asked her, “Well, if you think we’re not real adventurers why don't you go become one for yourself? The guild doors are always open down in Luxa.” That's when it hit her. If she wanted find someone to give her the true thrilling tale that's really worth singing for years about, the guild was the to go.

Peri had only just entered the capital city, Lionel reading on her shoulder when she was stopped in the crowded street by a large hand that turned her around to face three men, angry scowls on their face. "Can I... help you, gentlemen?" She asked with a straight face. "Don't play dumb with us, bard, you know who we are." one of them spat at her, "You were the one that humiliated us those weeks back." Peri glanced at Lionel, who glanced back and silently shrugged. She chuckled a little, "Sorry boys, I've humiliated so many idiots I stopped bothering to remember you all... Maybe you can enlighten me as to which ones you are?" she said with a cocky grin. Another one of them frowned angrily at her. "No one gets away with calling us 'dirt-eating thumb-sucking leatherheads'," he said, revealing a large gap in his teeth while he talked with a strange lisp. "Wait a second... Gap-Tooth Gerald and Friends?!" Peri said, bursting out in laughter, "Now I remember you bozos! Man, your song was a really fun one to play around with I'll give you that. Rhyming was a little tricky but good thing 'bald' rhymes with Gerald, right?" She backed up, seeing that saying that only made them more mad. "Look, I'd love to stay and catch up here with you Gap-Tooth," she said with another step back, putting her hands up, "but if you would excuse me, I have somewhere I need to be instead of wasting my time here." With a quick snap, she casted Illusion, making a "clone" of herself, swapping places a few times, then running off in separate directions. Two of the men ran after the illusion, while the other came running after her. But luckily with the crowded streets, she was able to lose him fairly easily.

After a little more running she stopped to catch her breath. As she was huffing, Lionel started to almost panickedly tug on her ear, trying to catch her attention. He seemed to be pointing to something near them. "What? We lost those idiots, I'm su--" She stopped mid-sentence when she turned her head to what the puppet was pointing at. Before them was the large guild hall, its doors open with people walking in and out of them. "Well then, guess those dunderheads are good for something after all. Who needs a map when we have guys like those chasing after us all the time?" Lionel kept looking around, extremely excited about everything. He, like her, knew the stories of the heroes shown on the banners, and was jumping up an down like a fan finally meeting their idol. "Easy there, bud. We're not here to get autographs. Besides, those guys are nothing but myths now..."

Peri calmed him down then walked through the large doors, inspecting the large guild hall in awe. Finally, she saw the man she knew she had to seek out, the Broker. She approached him, a confidence in her step and a grin on her face. "Excuse me, my good sir, but you wouldn't happen to be the Broker, would you? Mind helping a young bard looking for adventure?"
 

SASAKI JIN
​
A critical eye assessed that which he saw on the reflective surface. Casually, but carefully, a hand moved to pat down the vest that covered his torso, as if brushing dust that may have stood out against the ivory black of the vest. It was a frivolous gesture though, a habit borne out of the need to feign an impassive expression despite being deeply satisfied, impressed even. Continuing the facade, he nodded to the patient salesman, who promptly left the room after an exorbitant sum had been collected.

Now that privacy was guaranteed, Jin wasted no time in lifting his one arm high into the air and turning his head so that his nose was as close to his arm as possible. Taking one, two sniffs in rapid succession, he dropped his arm and relaxed his straightened posture. After a quick moment, he brought the dip of the vest over his nose and took an experimental sniff, then two, before fixing his attire once again. Finally, he was free of the horribly pungent odor of the sea and ports that had fiercely clung onto his person over the last few days.

When he had first stepped onto land after a good two days at sea, he had been downright unpleasant, despite his best efforts to remain otherwise. For the beginning of the trip, he had been despondent, and numb, rather uncharacteristic. Not to worry though, as he was quickly animated once the salt water had managed to trickle into nearly everything, damaging most of what little possessions he had thought to bring along. As if being poor hadn't been enough, as he walked through the port, the towns and into the city of prosperity with his hair dripping sand, and his clothes wet, reeking, and carrying filth - one look at his pitiful person would have effectively discouraged anyone from dealing or speaking to him. It had been a horrible five day trek.

Fortunately, he was free of that possibility now. He was fitted in an extravagant set of light armor, consisting of a white fur lined vest, that presented the black patterned tattoos on his shoulders, and pants that provided both protection and movement with flexible scales lining it. Adding to the multiple showers he took, his raven black hair had at last regained its shape and strength, resembling a lion's mane. Now capable of presenting himself as a worthy, imposing and confident figure, he was thoroughly rejuvenated. No longer could he afford to be diseased with helplessness, hoarding anger and regret, or drowning in guilt - if he wanted to make a mark on The Blood Price, he had no doubt that he would need every ounce of righteous fury and confidence to do so.

Armed only with the scraps he had left, he had walked alongside those who were taller, infinitely stronger, as discreetly as he could, and was not disappointed when he caught the first glimpse of the tell tale crimson and gold that so famously lined the walls and doors of The Blood Price. Bigger, grander, and much more striking than he could have ever dreamed of. Stories and tales did it no justice, could never tell of how it felt like a fortress, how the richly maintained walls could be both inviting and cautioning all at once.

Perhaps it was that edge of danger that clued him in, reminding him that although The Blood Price could offer wealth, fame, excitement, and worldly possessions, the one thing that it offered exclusively, that no other could, was a name. Just like those that rested beyond the threshold, the gates, etched eternally upon the banners for all to see, to respect, to remember and aspire to be. How his own name, tarnished, undesired, and spat on as it was now, he wondered, thoughtfully, of a day should he find his own name among the legends. Oh, how his family would rue the day, he thought gleefully, bordering hysteria. To be a face that garnered respect, admiration, a name that was feared and known, a person who had influence and power, tales that sung of challenges, misfortune, and betrayals overcome. If all could see, then even his family would see of a strength borne not from suffering nor despair, but simply from hope and conviction. Let it be known that Sasaki chose the wrong heir, he thought bitterly.

Stepping forward determinedly when he found his chance among the hundreds that roamed left and right, Jin stopped before the desk that seated one man. An important looking one. Straightening himself, he dipped his head and then spoke, "My name is Sasaki Jin, here to sign on with The Blood Price. Who is it that handles recruitment, where can I find them?"

 
For the uninformed, the Broker is considered one of the highest authorities in Luxa, and therefore in Avarice. His connections and influence are far reaching and show no respect for hierarchy. From the lowest farmer to the King himself, the Broker always seems to have a connection to everyone. These threads are without malice and impossible to detect; his web of information is channeled to the Broker and he alone. How he weaves his network remains a mystery but his information, and thus his power, is left with little doubt.

He stands behind the counter, dressed in a black suit with a white tie, a crimson and gold pin the shape of a drop of blood clips it to his dress shirt. He has a certain ageless quality about him though he is obviously well into his years. The Broker has slicked back white hair and a white mustache that curls at both ends that sit atop a pointed beard on his chin. If it weren’t for the dignified presence he possesses he would be indistinguishable amongst a crowd.

“I am indeed the Broker, Ms. Barcarolle.” The Broker’s voice was as calm and soothing as a gentle stream, flowing with an elegance and grace honed after years of practice. If he caught the young bard off guard, he showed no sign of notice. “Welcome to the Blood Price. If it is adventure you seek, then you have found yourself at the starting line of something great. I’m sure one would be able to create quite a tale if they stuck around long enough.” He gave her a knowing glance that lasted but a fraction, noticing the interesting figure resting upon her shoulder as well. “If you would be so kind as to order a drink at the bar, one of our associates will be with you shortly.” The Broker gestured to his right.

In the adjacent chamber, a bar the size of a wealthy inn was to be seen. The bar itself spanned from wall to wall with hundreds of vials and bottles behind it. Tables occupied most of the floor space, but there was still room for a sizable stage in the corner. A large white crystal floated above the center of the floor that was orbited by smaller crystals of various colors that provided lighting for the room.

“I recommend Ton’s Tale. I think it would be most suitable.” He gave Peri a warming smile before lowering his head, signalling Peri to depart toward the bar. He watched her take a few steps into the bar before the next patron stepped at his counter.

Dressed in extravagance, the Broker recognized the man from attire alone. There were not many from Nobu in Luxa, let alone a prince. The Broker returned the bow, slight as it was. “Welcome to the Blood Price, Sasaki Jin. We were expecting you yesterday.” The Broker showed a moment of disappointment. “But I suppose I’m not the only one that understands the finer points of presentation,” he said straightening his already pristine tie.

“As for your desire to join the Blood Price, all your concerns can be handled at the bar. One of our associates will be with you shortly. Please help yourself to a drink.” Another warming smile radiated from the Broker as he gestured towards the lively chamber. “I cannot speak higher praise of the Blood Ties. Quite the phenomenal drink.”

As Jin turned toward the bar, the Broker added, “Your sister sends her regards. It appears she is somewhere in Avarice, though she requested that your reunion be a ‘surprise’.” He said this without ill-intent or slight of meaning, merely passing a message from its sender to its recipient. The Broker bowed his head and extended his arm toward the bar before turning to the next approaching patron.

The man behind the bar goes by the name Reuno. A burly man, nearly as large as he is muscular, he stands polishing a glass in his hand when the arriving duo order their drinks. He snarls, muttering under his breath, “always recommend the mos’ complica’ed drinks.” Nevertheless, Reuno turned to prepare them.

He set a sparking clear liquid before Peri that smelled sweetly of flowers. As you drink it, Ton’s Tale would change color, flavor, and smell. It starts off sweet like honey, then turns bitter and earthy, with a citrus finish before changing into water for the final sip A fanciful drink representing a tale worthy journey and quite complex to make but Reuno is an expert.

Before Jin, Reuno set down the Blood Ties. A strong drink with a distinctive blood red hue that smelled like fire. At first taste it would burn, nearly searing the tongue, but as it passed down the throat it would radiate a coolness through the core, leaving a soothing finish that would always desire another taste. It was said that this drink was only served at bonding ceremonies between two families, signifying a passion that would led to peace.

Reuno grumbled as he moved to help the next customer, most likely with another complicated order, though he would undoubted make perfect.

The two newcomers, freshly served their drinks, await the approach of an associate that would lead them into the world of adventuring and the embrace of the Blood Price.

GM Note

Please respond accordingly and interact with one another in an organic fashion.
 
Peri raised her eyebrow slightly at the Broker, not exactly surprised or shocked but more impressed that he actually already knew her name and her intentions. She seemed almost inappropriately casual in front of a man as powerful and influential as him, leaning forward on his counter and rhythmically tapping her fingers on the table while she listened to him. Both she and Lionel turned their heads to look to the bar as the Broker gestured towards it. "Giving out drinks this early? No wonder you attract so many blundering alcoholics to your guild." She said, looking back to the man behind the counter, "But I will admit I'm impressed to see that you do your research like they all say... Anyway, guess I can't pass up on good booze. Thank you very much, Mr. Broker-sir." she said, nodding to him. She took one step before quickly going back to him. "By the way, if one gapped-tooth man and his cronies-- you probably know who I'm talking about-- pass by looking for me, I wasn't here, okay? Thanks!" she murmured quickly then left for the bar without waiting to get a response.

Waking into the hall's bar, Peri let out an impressed whistle as she looked around. "Daaamn... Now this is a bar. That stage there isn't half bad either..." she said aside to Lionel, who nodded in agreement. She approached the bar, leaning back against it casually, and ordered her drink as recommended. She inspected it as it was set before her. Lionel had sat himself on the bar table, his legs coming over the edge as he put his hands in his lap. He looked to her expectedly, but in return she gave him a disapproving look. "You don't drink, don't try pulling anything this time." She took a sip, watching the drink change in color and smell afterwards. Curious, she drank again, and started to catch onto the theme of the drink, and why it was called "Ton's Tale". "A pleasant first act followed by the trial-filled second act. Would've preferred something a bit stronger but...not bad, not bad at all..."

Moments later, another approached the bar. Peri glanced aside and looked him over. "Guessing you're some kind of fancy type with clothes and hair like that. Even the way you stand gives it away." she said to him, though not completely turning to him, instead keeping her body faced forward, "The pompous aura you're giving off is already bugging the hell out of me, but I guess you're at least a better option to be stuck next to than some giant drunkard." she took another sip of her drink, watching the liquid in the small glass change color again.

voracity voracity (idk if tagging is even necessary but y'know what, I'll do it anyway.)
 


The Broker was formidable, of this Jin had no doubt. To chastise without fear of transgression, to praise right after with no intention of soothing bruised egos, the Broker was a charmer, a host, without equal. Even the spymasters Jin had remembered back at his family estate had a distinctly inferior composure to the well informed man. He, who could possibly bring down kingdoms, and rewrite history, to sit within a hall of hundreds who knew so, but effortlessly commanded obedience and did so masterfully.

So when he was directed towards the chamber that housed the bar, Jin did so without a hesitation or question, making haste to return the bow, this time bent at the waist. To doubt or refuse would have been a great disrespect, especially after the two gifts the Broker had bestowed upon him. And so, hearing the silent dismissal, accompanied with the motion of his arm, Jin turned to the aforementioned chamber, a heavy breath escaping as his emotions fought for dominance in light of the great revelation the Broker had left him with.

Suspicion held strong. None of the siblings, those older or younger than him were close by any means, each had their duties and interests to attend to, and even if those placed them beside one another, relations were often tense or shallow. The only strong bond the family would truly call upon to date, was the intense aggression between Jin and their Heir. Now that Jin had next to no standing, respect or privileges within Nobu though, he had to wonder if there were still plans or pieces that the others needed him for in their politics. Wherever his sister was, he made a strong note to deliver a great surprise, or it was surely the only way to grab any advantage he could should it degrade into a battle of wills and words.

No matter where she was now, what plans may be spinning, or emotions that stirred within, the Broker had given a generous gift, that was beyond necessary. A thought reached out to the gracious man, may secrets and treasures seamlessly make their way to your nest, Broker.

Having sorted out his thoughts by the time he reached the counter, he shook his head to recall the first of the Broker’s words, the suggestion of drinks. Not one to turn away a hosts’ selection, he easily hailed down the large man who looked nothing but gruff and rough. Despite appearances, when the viciously red looking drink was left in front of him, even Jin could not help but to praise the man after taking a whiff under his nose. The drink was familiar, perhaps not in name, but the scent of it brought back reminders, undoubtedly, the man had done his job exceptionally well. After taking his first sip, he was left floored, memory coming forth, “A sharp fire to the tongue, a heavy rain to deliver, and a blanket of fulfillment to round out the drink,” he mused, “truly, someone ought to give you more than just tips and gold to be able to deliver this to your customers.” And, he added inwardly, let it be known that the Broker has the most ironic taste in humor, to suggest Blood Ties in his circumstances.

Moving to grab a spot further down the long table, preferably out of the way of other customers, he stopped when a feminine voice to his right addressed him. Though her words seemed to be poised and crafted from hostility, he couldn't but to notice that she made no move to start a fight, or truly lace her words with malice. An unruly runt then, Jin could do unruly. Exceptionally well too.

“I’d like to think that I smell and dress better than some common thug,” he replied easily, careful to not spill his drink as he pivoted to face the woman. “They say that weak prey have the instinct to recognize their betters, I can only assume that the same applies to you, ma’am,” he then tipped his nose high, white fur rustling the ends of his mane like hair, to exaggerate the parody. Spying the metal contraption on the table, he appraised it, “Fascinating choice of companions, have you any other, or would you be more willing to give your name?” he inquired innocently.


 
Finally, Peri turned her head to him when she found that she had gotten his attention after all. During his response she kept a straight face, seeming like she was not phased, but rather almost uninterested with his rebuttal to her. However, only moments after it she found herself giving in and losing her facade, a smile cracking on her face that then turned into a snicker which finally became full laughter. Her laughing did not seem like a jovial kind that companions usually shared together in taverns, but instead one more condescending or even mocking, like she could not bring herself to take him seriously. Perhaps it was the snobby nose tipping or overly-flamboyant fur rustling.

It took her a moment or two to compose herself before she finally turned to him, the straight expression replaced with her usual smirking grin. She set down her drink on the bar before going down in an overly-dramatic curtsy. "Oh, of course, milord! Forgive me for having not realized it was you sooner, Your Snobbishness!" She said with a stereotypical "snob" accent, laughing a little between every word, "Please be merciful in your punishment and- Oh no! Woe is me! I've gazed upon your magnificence for too long again! Please, depart for me Lord Stuck-Up or allow me to avert my eyes!" She faked cowering away before smirking back at him and leaning one elbow on the bar, putting her hand under her chin as she grinned. "I must say, it takes quite the joke for an actor to break their character. It seems I've come across a real knee slapper dressed in fancy furs..."

At his asking about her puppet, she looked at Lionel, who was in the middle of picking up her glass, inspecting it, and putting it down in a disappointed fashion as he realized all that was left was the final sip of water. Peri turned back to her pretentious new conversation partner. "You try to beat me at my own insult game then try to know all my secrets, all before you can even catch my name? Did they removed manners from the curriculum in rich-boy school? For shame..." She took her glass and finished the last sip of her drink before continuing. "You're a real interesting man, Fancypants. A real intriguing character... The name is Peri Barcarolle, a "pleasure" to make your acquaintance." She said with a bow of her head and a showy movement of her free hand. Then she gestured to the small metal man, "This here is Lionel. A real showman. Don't praise him too much or he'll get a head bigger than all of Avarice." At the introduction, Lionel stood up and gave a long and dramatic low bow, as if during a curtain call of a show. Peri playfully pushed him with her hand, causing him to stumble forward. The puppet did not appreciate the gesture and went stomping on the table towards her. But it only took a few fingers pressed against his foreheads to stop him, leaving him swinging at nothing and unable to reach her. She chuckled watching him persist. "Anyway, have you got a name yourself or will I be stuck forever knowing you as 'Fancypants'?" She said finally as she turned to the man, still holding Lionel back.
 
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Jin smiled and tension fled from his body quickly. Pleased that his unruly nature remained true, he reveled in the laughter that rang loudly from his audience of one, well two, as best as he could, for the woman was odd, and he could not ascertain whether her laughter rang with approval or belittlement. The latter thought brought a hot flash into his core, but he urged himself to not jump to conclusions. Surely a woman, odd as she was he thought despairingly, could not possibly find some sadistic pleasure in another’s discomfort whilst having a drink?

As the woman, short though very lively, perhaps overly so, continued on her impromptu display, Jin only felt the hot flash of offense burn hotter and brighter. For the life of him though, he could not pinpoint the one reason to justify the burn that seemed to boil within him. Frustration he could sense easily, was it because he could not get one word in, to defend or retaliate the boisterous woman? Impatience, then, he decided, as he quickly brought the glass up to his mouth, pouring plenty of the soothing refreshment to taper off his temper, for Jin had never met one so … childish, nor lively within the traditional land, the pit of snakes, that he grew up in.

To meet someone so fresh and different was magnificently … horrifying. Pleasantly horrifying. Thankfully, as her loud laughter faded off, and introductions were underway, he tried to measure whether she was truly disgusted by his … outstanding person, or if she were simply unruly and hateful. Sadly, the woman remained a mystery. She seemed pleasant enough to give her name, and her companion’s, though couldn’t seem to help to keep her snide comments to herself. Ironic, as he was being accused of such.

Taking one last much needed swig of the lovely drink, he pushed the empty glass onto the table before turning to the woman once more, only pausing for the final nostalgic burn and cold to fade before speaking. “Sasaki Jin. Though I get a distinct feeling you may prefer to remember me with much more degrading and memorable names,” he mused aloud, with a roll of his eyes. Turning to the metal companion, he raised an eyebrow, he thought to inquire her reasons for being here, but thought better and carefully laid out his options.

Rolling his one shoulder, he continued quickly, “perhaps one day once I’m through fighting beasts of legend or returning from a grand adventure I can convince you to call me ‘Your Highness’ without such distaste. As I attended an institution meant for people of my stature, I can only assume that you’ll be staying here behind the counter? Should I start looking forward to my return trips or are you here for something more adventurous?” He asked, expression slightly giddy from the slight childish remarks.

 
Peri smirked, "The feeling you're getting is probably there because it's true. I am indeed a woman who enjoys her nicknames," she said to him after he introduced himself, "With all the people I meet and run into, I find they're much easier to remember with little witty labels. Makes it more fun on my end as well. So don't try to take it all too personally." She gave him a cheeky grin and a playful wink.

Though she wouldn't admit it out loud, this Sasaki fellow was certainly the first to really catch her interest in a while. Though he seemed a bit too posh for her tastes, she did quite enjoy his snapping remarks back at her. She had been in pretty much every tavern in Avarice, and everyday was surrounded by giant, foul smelling men who most likely had brains smaller than peas. Yet most of them had the gaul to really call themselves "adventurers". They were all idiots to Peri, and to say the least it was a pleasurable experience to be with someone who had some semblance of intelligence on them, or someone who could at least form coherent sentences.

"Hm, you could certainly try, Lord Snobbish, but I'm not someone who bends the knee so easily to someone who simply walks in with fancy clothes." she said in response to his next remarks, "If you come back from those 'grand adventures' like you so promise, then perhaps I could add "Slayer of Beasts" to your title. But believe me, I've met many who aspired to do such things, yet none have delivered. As for me..." She glanced at Lionel, who was starting to tire out. She let go and the puppet gave up, sitting back down on the counter. Exhausted, he tiredly shook his little fist at her, vowing revenge at a later time. Peri looked back at Jin. "As much as I would love drinking all day at this bar, that life isn't exactly for me. I'm here, like you and everyone else, looking for some adventure. Travelling shore to shore, battling deadly beasts, yadda yadda-- you get the point. But I'm not here for the riches, or women, or even a name for myself that'll last centuries, really. As nice as that third option would be, that can be optional bonus. If you couldn't tell, I'm a bard by trade, a performer by blood, and a storyteller at heart. The mark that shows when bard has really succeeded is when a story or song of theirs outlasts them, and rings throughout tavern walls for generations. So that's what led me here. Just looking for a little inspiration. What about you? Got any notable reasons or aspirations that brought you here? Or should I just put you under the 'get rich, get popular' category with everyone else?"
 
Reuno grumbled another complaint to himself as he set a drink down for another patron when he noticed her walk into the bar. It is hard not to notice someone with a presence as commanding as Willet’s, who on first glance, one could tell is overly confident, perfectly poised, and without a doubt, beautiful. At the sight, Reuno frowned internally, his gut reeling, though his stone-like features showed no emotion outwardly. Willet glided to the bar, black robes flowing, her black witch’s hat sitting pristinely atop her long blonde hair that was braided and rested on her shoulder.

“Good day to you, Reuno,” she said cheerily with a hint of irony in her voice.

Reuno grunted in response.

“Now, don’t be like that, big fella. How was I supposed to know it would never grow back?”

Reuno, stone faced, rubbed a spot on his back and turned to walk towards the opposite end of the bar.

“Fetch me my usual while you’re over there. It is my rotation for the new applicants,” she yelled after him, turning to eye the two in question a few paces down. It was always easy to spot the wanna-be adventurers. They had so much spunk and vitality and seethed with desire. Willet loved to break them.

The witch strode over to the pair, interrupting their conversation wherever it may be. “I am Willet. I understand you are the new recruits and wanna-be adventurers.” She glanced them up and down, measuring their capabilities and sighed. “Well I guess buggars can’t be pickers, or some such saying.”

She extended her hand over the bar and caught the mug that Reuno had slid from the far end without a glance. The cauldron shaped mug had green smoke rising over the rim. She brought it to her lips and smiled. “The best as always, Reuno” she yelled after him. The burly bartender grunted audibly. “That is no way to respond to a lady, you hairy gorilla!” she exclaimed. “I will make sure the rest of your hair never grows back!”

Reuno shrugged his shoulders and tended to the far end of the bar.

“Ahem,” Willet smoothed the front of her robes. “Where were we? Ah yes, the inadequate adventurers. It is my duty to guide you both through the recruitment process.” She turned and began walking towards the exit. “It was my rotten fortune that I am stuck with you potential-less sacks, but that is the way the dice lie, or cards roll, or some such saying. I was never good with the phrases of you lessers.” She took another sip of her drink before throwing it over her shoulder. Reuno caught it before it hit the ground and grumbled again.

“Keep up, you sorry lot,” she said passing the Broker. He gave her a knowing look behind a sunny smile. Play nice, it said. Willet’s back straightened immediately.

“Ahem, well do manage to keep pace,” she said strained with an almost inaudible “please” at the end.

Willet seemed to float down the guild steps, eyes turning at her sight. Amongst the members of Blood Price, she was short-tempered, arrogant, and generally unpleasant, but to the ignorant, she was nearly regal.

As they stood before the steps to the Blood Price, Willet turned and faced Peri and Jin. “This will be a long journey so ready your belongings and meet me at the city gates in one hour. What’s that look on your face? Don’t you know where we are going?” She rolled her eyes. “This is why I hate new recruits; they do not care to learn. We are heading to the magic city, Ondora. It is the only place in Avarice to acquire a crystal needle.” WIllet rolled her eyes again at its mention. Exasperated she raised a finger. “One hour.”

And in the blink of an eye, she vanished.

As Peri and Jin settled from their encounter with Willet the Witch, the Broker strode down the stairs with two pouches in hand.

“Ms. Barcarolle. Mr. Sasaki.” The Broker bowed in greeting. “Please accept these,” he extended his hand, gifting them each a pouch. “The roads can be quite dangerous for young adventurers. Do take care of yourselves.” He smiled, clasping each of them on the shoulder before bowing again. He turned to ascend the guild steps and return to his station.

Inside the pouches, were a single red and glowing vial. Anyone in Avarice could tell you they were healing potions, though the weight of these felt different. Maybe it because they were a gift from the Broker, or maybe it was something more.

The next hour passed. Peri and Jin both stood at the city gates waiting for their guide. The sun stood high and the heat of the day approached its zenith.

Then the next hour passed, and the next. By the third hour, Willet finally appeared as she had left - in the blink of an eye. She flipped her braid to her opposite shoulder, then snapped her finger. In the next moment, a broom appeared beneath her hand and in a swift movement, she was sitting atop it, both legs to one side, floating. “Well we don’t have all day. Keep up, you sorry lot” she said, either unaware or uncaring for her tardiness as she flew away from the city, Jin, Peri, and Lionel in tow.

GM Note Willet the Witch joins the party! She will act as a guide on your journey to Ondora. Feel free to interact with her as you see fit, though you may not always get a friendly reply. React to Willet’s sudden appearance, anything she said or did, and any gap in time as you wish.

Let the journey begin!
 
I never liked my parents, you know? They were two boring adults living their boring lives together until I came around, their first child. I’m sure some couple would have their lives turned upside down by something like this but not my parents. When I threw rocks at the other kids my father would just talk to me and pat me in the head, when my spell burned the flowers in our garden my mother asked me to choose a flower so the two of us can plant them together, when I stole books from the library they would take them back and buy me the exact same ones. No matter how much my spells would destroy things and get us in trouble they would still be proud of me.

I didn’t like that.

The day of my 18th birthday was the day I told them of my plans, of my dream to become more than everyone else. They had no objections, of course they wouldn’t. Everything was going my way until she made me say those words, to promise one day I would come back and show them how much I have changed. I left the house angry with myself because I knew that in the bottom of my heart I was happy they made me promise that.

I never liked my parents but I never hated them either.

“Why are you… telling me all this?” Asked the young boy lying face first on the ground, his once shining purple cloak now filled with dust. Close to him was Grace sitting on the top of a pillar with her eyes glued to the book she had just obtained. “No idea, just felt like talking.” The girl answered right as she closed the book and slowly moved her gaze towards the stranger. Suddenly she snapped her fingers, “I know! You can take it as payment for the book you just gave me!” The boy tried to stand up to answer but could only get on his knees “Gave you?! You-no, your earth thing just stole it from me!” Grace kept a mocking expression on her face as she jumped down from her spot and walked towards him, “Which means its mine now, unless you think you are able to take it back” He stared at her for a few seconds before giving a quick glance to his left and right as if he was scanning the perimeter until the girl spoke once again, “Let’s not do something stupid” Their eyes met for seconds that felt like years until the boy started the spell he was going to use but he was too slow. As soon as he moved Grace aimed her fingers towards his hand and shot a small fireball at him, something that small for her required no cast time at all. The attack hit instantly, stopping the spell and burning his hand slightly but before he could express his pain the young girl delivered a kick directly into his jaw, knocking him into the ground once again, “That was something stupid”

Grace calmly walked past him, she had her fun and the book in her hands so there was no reason to stay any longer until she heard something. It was the boy, still lying on the ground, sobbing but it didn’t sound like it was out of pain. She stood still while listening to his frustrations slowly sprouting out of him. The girl sighed deeply and, with her back still towards, took some coins out her pocket before throwing them towards him “That should be enough to buy the current version of this one. Its trash but I’m sure your teachers will think otherwise” Grace started walking once again as soon as she heard the coins hit the floor, now there surely wasn’t any reason to stay.

“Damn, it’s such a shame that his first books are filled with theories and potential spells but after he became a sellout they all are basically ‘magic for dummies’. What a waste.” Said the girl to herself as she gave the book a closer look. She turned around for a second; thinking about the pathetic kid left into the dirt “What was a rookie like him going to do with it anyway? The new one should be complex enough for him.” Grace was completely self-taught, her only teacher being the books she could manage to obtain one way or another. Having to sit for days in a classroom hearing an old man talk pointless stuff to learn the bare minimum was pathetic in her eyes; if a mage had decided to spend his days teaching there it wasn’t a mage worth learning from. The girl was glad with her results but another problem was born out of them, the weight of her bag had become too much for her small body to constantly carry around. Her focus now should be to find a place to stay and somewhere he could find a job and her destination could easily cover both of them.

She had read plenty about the guild and the people in it; the blood Price. She learnt all about it and realized that it was the perfect place to start her path to greatness, her dream of becoming the one magician everyone looked up to. Sadly for her she left her house with little funds and alongside her rude manners the road to Luxa was harder than anticipated. Grace could have easily robbed someone of enough gold to afford the transportation to the capital but that option was out of the window since she didn’t want to become a thief… she was a book thief, not a thief thief, they were different things for her at least. Her adventure didn’t look very bright until a kind merchant and her daughter appeared, they were traveling towards Luxa as well and offered to take her if she didn’t mind the little space in the wagon. To the young magician surprise they didn’t ask for gold or something of value “We helped you because you were someone who needed help, that’s all.” explained the daughter with a smile on her face. The four days of travel felt like minutes, the father told her about his multiple travels and Grace answered with her numerous mischiefs in the first week away from home. The daughter’s eyes shined like stars whenever she demonstrated one of her spells to them. Sadness came for the three of them when they reached the gates of the great city so Grace decided to make another promise to them however this time with a smile on her face “Just wait until I reach the very top, I’ll look for you and present the most wonderful spells you will ever see.” She waved at them from the distance one last time before disappearing in through one of the many streets around.

The father had prepared her a quickly drawn map with instructions on how to reach the renowned guild which she followed until finding him. It was a young boy wearing a long purple cloak that she recognized as the one from the novice magic academy of Luxa but what really caught her eyes was the book he was carrying, a book from twenty years ago that lost most of its copies in a shipwreck causing the few left to become quite valuable. Graced smile from minutes ago was replaced cruel grin as she prepared to do the two things she do best “Sorry kid but I’ll be taking that out of your hands! Summon: Earth golem!” She yelled and pointed her staff towards the target that was unable to know what was happening until a creature twice his size appeared a few feet in front of him. He never stood a chance.

It had only been 2 hours since she arrived to Luxa but between her wasted mana on a curb stomp battle and the now filled bag at her back had exhausted her more than expected. Thankfully for her the walking was almost over as she stood in front of an entrance worthy of the richest castle. Grace closed her eyes and sighed deeply before standing tall and proud, as tall as she could anyway, to start the march through the gates. Inside she was welcomed by great banners of mighty adventurers of the past which she only recognized by name except for one. “I hoped you won’t mind if I take your spot in a few years.” Thought Grace as her eyes gazed into the image of Fae the Mystic. Soon enough she found herself in front of the counter which separated her from a man with a straight expression on his face. The young magician cleared her throat before and placed her hand on the wood structure “You must be the broker, right? Rejoice, old man, because in the future you will be able to tell your grandchildren about the day you first met Grace Eliria, the greatest elementalist this world has ever known!” There were a few seconds of silence followed by “No! I mean mage, the greatest mage!”
 
“Greetings, Ms. Elira,” the Broker said with an earnest smile. “Glad your journey to Luxa was,” he paused, “lucrative.” From behind his back he pulled two books, the ones Grace acquired on her journey to the capital. “‘Emulrice’s Magic Arcana vol. 6’, a bit trivial compared to his early works, and my, what a rarity: ‘Folden’s Spells and Magicks’. Quite the the collection you have here, especially for such a young and talented mage.” The Broker turned and handed the books to one of his colleagues, receiving the books with a bow. “Please make sure these get back to Master Bonn.”

The Broker returned his attention back to Grace. “You say you have a desire to be the greatest mage? It looks as if you have talents for thievery and bullery as well.” He smiled again, “Both qualities of some of the best adventurers. However, there is always someone better than you in this world, especially if you find yourself in Luxa.” He affixed a knowing glance at Grace to ensure he made his point clear.

“One of our best mages left with the next group of initiates. If you head for the city gates now you are sure to catch them, that is, if you’re not too busy targeting young students.” Another radiant smile. He gestured toward the door. “You’re looking for Willet the Witch. I’m sure you could learn a thing of two from her on your journey to Ondora.” With that, the Broker bowed signalling Grace’s departure.

As she turned to leave, the Broker tossed her a small blue vial, a minor mana potion. “For good luck.” With that, Grace exited the hall.

A small collection of figures could be seen exiting the city gates, Willet on her broom, followed by Peri, Lionel, and Jin as Grace appeared.

Willet moaned in annoyance. “I hoped this one got lost on the way over. Well, come on now you sorry excuse for a mage. We will be here all day if I have to wait for every one of you.” Willet sped forward enough to force Grace and the rest into a modest trot onward toward the horizon.

GM Note Grace joins the party!
 
As Jin made to correct Peri, he couldn’t decide if he was trying to deny that he had such shallow goals, or scoff at the idea that he’d only aim for two achievements. It would have been an unfortunate situation, to have to stand with dignity, yet confess his greed wistfully. Truthfully though, Willet, who had unknowingly given him an out from that particular conversation, was not much of a savior. Taking a chance to recover from the abrupt introduction the blonde had given as she crowed at the bartender, Jin grimaced.

Her choice in words were obviously meant to belittle, or to infuriate, provoke even. Jin should have expected it. Like a general, or just anyone who had subordinates under their command, it was like … the words escaped him, but he supposed ‘hazing’ came the closest. To deflate heads of those who had egos the size of a nation, but to hear it coming from a woman who looked better suited to tending to flowers, graves and dead bodies at a funeral infuriated him.

When he next blinked, irritation escalating, he was staring at the back of the blonde witch. Insolent, he concluded. Absolutely, unacceptable. He huffed and suppressed the growl at his chest as he took long strides to catch up to the flippant woman. Flippant, flighty, and … honestly, with the way she dressed, the drink she had chosen, and unseemingly way she fumbled her words, Jin seethed and decided to assume she were some kind of undead. A “friendly” undead.

Despite his silent smugness, stirring away the irritation, as soon as they had passed the Broker once again. He couldn’t suppress the growl. A flippant, flighty, two faced witch. Was there any redeeming quality in this woman, something to offset the unpleasant words, incorrect euphemisms, and unwarranted superiority? If she were to fear the consequences of displeasing the Broker, how did she dare to step upon the toes of greenhorns like she were truly a figure of importance.

It was all he could do just to keep from spontaneously combusting where he stood, as instructions, the first, were properly fed to him and Peri. As soon as the intolerable witch left, it was the Broker that settled his temper, with a hand that weighed heavier than anything on his shoulder. He was glad to not have embarrassed himself any further in front of the man, Jin was certain the man was an invaluable ally, and very kind individual, as suspicious as he was for one who took no sides - someone he loathed to show his childish manners towards either way. The witch could rot for all he cared though.

“Hopefully, the sun will be hot enough to boil the wench in her black robes,” Jin had huffed out hatefully among his departing words to Peri as he turned to make his preparations. Oh how he would come to regret his poor choice of words, a curse, he would silently cry under the precious shades of the trees surrounding the gates, the wicked wench had definitely left with them a curse of sorts. Surely, that was the one reason the Broker had left them with the pouches, to somehow offset the mischievous cunning of the horrible woman.

Strapped in his modestly sized pack was his blanket, ragged but served its purpose nicely. Adventuring essentials, but most importantly and unfortunate of all, his gauntlets that weighed like a load of rocks. When it was halfway through the second hour - pass the time assigned, he feared that he would be too volatile. Towards Peri and Lionel, who would have done nothing to deserve his anger - even if the bard decided to needle him - or the witch, who he may come to depend on throughout the travel, despite her horrible personality.

Scoff.

When the accursed woman made her appearance once again, yet another appearance joined their small band. Snapping out of his meditative pose, not that it helped too much, he sprung up to his feet and dipped his head towards the newcomer, a silent greeting whilst the blonde moaned of her duties. Channeling his fragile patience into a moderate long stride to keep up with the witch, Jin lasted a good five minutes out from the city gates before turning over to glance at the other two female companions.

“My name is Jin. Has the witch told you of our destination and objective?” He inquired curtly, towards the younger female.
 
Peri turned her attention to the sound of another woman yelling. She almost instantly spotted the new stranger coming in and saw the arrogance in her step. At the banter between the witch and the bartender, Peri chuckled a little to herself, amused with the strange chemistry between the two characters.

As Willet came to them and introduced herself as their guide, Peri didn't bother saying anything. Instead she simply followed their guide's league out of the bar, Lionel catching a ride by hopping onto her shoulder, the small puppet waving to people, the Broker included as they passed by. At the task given to them, Peri listened, feeling a bit of excitement build within her. "Ondora, huh? Now that's a place I haven't had the pleasure of visiting yet." She had spent her life travelling Avarice, but Ondora was one of the few places she never got to, probably because its entry was so selective.

With Willet gone it a snap, she took the Broker's parting gift, whom she was surprised to see actually out from behind the counter he usually sat behind. Giving a nod of thanks to him, she looked into the pouch as he left, inspecting the potion within. "Ooh la la~ I could get used to a man like the Broker. Free stuff is the best kind of stuff." Jin already seemed beyond irritated with Willet, based off of the sharp words from him as he left. "I don't know. I kinda like her," Peri smirked back at him, "There was this one story where it was water that melted the witch. Have no idea if it's true, though. Maybe you could try if you really wanted."

When she and Lionel came to the gates at the exit of the city Peri looked around. Their hour was almost up, but the witch nowhere to be seen. Peri sighed. "She can magically teleport herself, so of course she'd be taking her sweet, sweet time. Whatever, guess we might as well pass the time with something productive instead of standing here wasting it." she said. She went and found a wall, sitting on the ground sitting back against it. She pulled out her lute from behind her back and plucked a few strings, adjusting the tightness of them with the pegs and putting the instrument in tune. Strumming a few chords, she grinned, satisfied at the sound. "Alright bud, guess we got time to practice. You finished with choreographing the new thing we've been working on yet?" she asked aside to the puppet, at which he nodded and hopped down on the ground. He legs shoulder length apart in a starting position.

With that, Peri started strumming away at the lute, playing a fairly fast and jaunty tune with a steady beat to it, beating against the body of the instrument as well. Lionel began dancing to the song in a routine similar to that of a tap dance, quickly stomping his feet, toes, and heels in rapid succession as he danced around, doing various spins and other showy movements with his arms. He finished with one last step that echoed as he stood in a dramatic pose. "Pretty good!" Peri said impressed, "Though you were off beat a little coming into the end..." Lionel looked at her and gave a dismissive wave. He didn't want to admit he knew we was off as well.

With Lionel taking a rest after that, Peri continued picking away for a little while. But as time went on she figured their "guide" was either now purposefully running late, dead, or had abandoned them, either the first or third option being the most likely. She put down her lute and rested her hands behind her head, closing her heads and yawning. "Alright, wake me up when she comes back. If she doesn't... then don't wake me up, I'll gladly take the nap." She said, Lionel sitting beside her as they waited for Willet to return.

When Willet finally did reappear before them, Peri opened one eye right away before slowly getting up to finally depart for their first part of their 'initiation'. "Took you long enough. But thanks for the chance given to get some shut-eye." she said as they walked out of the gates of the city, stuffing her hands in her pockets casually.

She followed Willet's lead alongside Jin. They were still not far from the city when Peri couldn't help but start some conversation. "I was thinking you left us waiting there so long because you were going to be 'fashinably late', but I see now that was probably not the case," she said with a snicker, poking fun at their guide already and her "get up". Lionel tried to intervene, tugging on Peri's ear and trying to subtly and silently signal her to "cut it off", signalling it with his hand frantically running across his throat repeatedly. She noticed the gesture, but didn't seem to care. Unlike him, she wasn't scared of saying such things to anyone, even a witch. "I mean, I get it. The whole witch thing is kind of your shtick. But really, all the black, the hat, and the broomstick? What's next, a talking cat?"

But Peri's attention shifted soon after at the arrival of a new party member. The first thing that Peri noticed about her was that she was young, at least younger than the rest of them to the point where it was noticeable, maybe by a few years at most. "Is it a mage thing that makes you guys take forever at everything?" She asked the newcomer, not bothering any introduction. "But really, don't you have some parents waiting for you to come home for dinner or something, kid? They know you're out going on adventures this close to your bedtime?"
 
Grace stood still and paid attention to every word the old man said. Contrary to what she was expecting from someone sitting in a counter managing most likely paperwork all the time “the broker” radiated what could be described as an aura, as if his words were filled with the authority of the whole guild. Her thoughts were proved further as he presented those books, the grin in her face gone in an instant “Should have expected something like this” Thought the young mage as the old man gave her a piece of advice, something to save in the back of her head for the travels to come “I’ll keep that in mind, thank you for your concern.” Said the girl with a forced smile before asking in a kind voice “Would you be so kind to help me find some work fitting for my abilities?”

Only a minute later and with the blue vial still in her hand was Grace seen dashing through the entrance of the blood price towards the city gates. She didn’t like the idea of being late on the first mission like some kid in a hurry towards the school but it was worth for the right to work with an experienced mage adventurer, besides, refusing the very first job the broker assigned her felt like a rude thing to do considering his kind attitude. It didn’t take her long before reaching the place and catching up to a small group that was clearly the people she was placed with but as soon as she got close enough Willet’s sharp remarks reached her ears “What did you just- hey!” Her complain interrupted by the witch’s decision to start moving. The young mage face was covered with an angry frown as she reluctantly followed the woman in charge. Normally after something like that Grace would have complained and cursed to the four winds against Willet but she was smarter than that. She knew that if the guild had assigned her as the leader of a group it had to be for a reason but there was something else, something that maybe only a fellow magic user like her could see. It was that attitude of superiority. For someone who practiced magic, be it a mage, a elementalist like her or a witch, that attitude was meant for a person that had worked to rise above the rest and wanted to keep it that way, someone who watched those following her get one step closer only to move further and leave them two steps behind. Attitude alone doesn’t confirm if someone is strong or weak but if Grace was looking for a hint about the witch’s power that was a very good one to start with. However this didn’t change the fact that talking with her was most likely going to be a pain from the beginning to the very end. “Nothing short of sunshines and rainbows when traveling with a witch” Complained the girl in what could be considered a whisper as she moved at her leader’s pace.

Focused on the multiple ideas dancing in her head Grace almost didn’t notice when one of her teammates spoke to her, it was a man dressed in what the girl considered an unusual outfit. “He looks almost ready for a night of dancing.” Thought the young mage before shaking her head to forget about his appearance and pay attention to his words. “The witch? Not a word. The broker on the other hand told me that she is taking us towards Ondara however he wasn’t very specific about our objective or anything like that. Also my name is Grace. Grace Eliria” She wanted to ask Jin about his origins, he looked different from the men she had encountered so far but was unable to after being interrupted by Peri’s ‘greetings’. “Huh? Says the woman who looks like she tried to eat what I can only guess was a knife. There is no need to worry about my bed time, that ugly thing you carry seem to need it way more right now. An endless bedtime that is.” Replied Grace to Peri’s remarks. She had to put up with Willet’s annoying attitude but unlike the witch there was no reason for her to hold back against her new teammates.
 
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Willet could feel her ears burning. The short one will need to be punished, she thought. With the flick of the wrist, she sent Peri tumbling to the ground, pulling her feet from under her causing the bard to fall on her bum. A mischievous grin appeared on Willet’s face, though hidden from the party’s view. On a whim, she flicked her wrist again and dolled the same punishment to Jin and Grace, almost sensing their imperfect thoughts.

She sped up on her broom, berating them from the front. “Keep up you, sorry lot. We don’t have all day to spend collecting grubs or whatever you people do.” She let out a roar of a laugh, “Wohohoho!” It was a laugh unbefitting of a lady but perfect for a witch.

The day progressed and Willet’s sharp tongue did not cease to strike when necessary. She flicked her wrist several times throughout the passing hours sending the rest of the group falling when she felt it appropriate. Whether the bard did not learn her lesson the first time or she did not like the look on Jin’s face or when she sensed ill-thoughts from Grace, she sent them all to the ground. By the time they neared camp, Willet made sure they were rubbing their rears.

“I think this is a good place to call it a day,” she said aloud to no one in particular, merely a spontaneous decision. The sun was dipping, the light of the day beginning to turn orange. “Travelling sure does make my bum sore,” she said playfully.

The decided camp spot was off the main road, secluded by trees with a small creek nearby. The ground was flattened by previous travellers and there were signs of a fire in the pit a few days past.

She stuck her finger at Jin. “You. Go fetch wood.” Her finger fell onto Peri next. “Tiny person. Food.” And finally Grace. “Brat. Water.”

With the commands done, she turned to a further section of the clearing and waved her hand. The air rippled before her and appeared to be distorted. The light refracted in a weird way that was only noticeable from up close. Willet walked towards the odd shimmer and moved it aside as if it were a curtain, revealing a darkened room faintly lit by candles. As she walked through and the shimmering translucent curtain fell, the room vanished, only revealing the woods and camp ground behind it.

The young mage might be familiar with this type of magic, though doubtful she had ever witnessed it. WIllet had created a dimensional rift, an area not existing in the third dimension. The witch had created a space separated from this world and only accessible from the curtain-like entrance. If one walked to the other side of the curtain, the rift would be inaccessible and invisible, it was as if nothing was amiss, and the room never there.

Time passed and the trio returned with their tasks accomplished. In the center of the clearing, however, was a large creature that appeared to be made entirely of rock and earth. It stood nearly 10 feet tall and weighed several stones. As the group approached, the rock monster swung its giant boulder of a fist in an arc in an attempt to hit all three in one motion, letting off a screech that sounded like a landslide.

GM Note Hope your bums aren’t too tired for the FIRST ENCOUNTER! React to your time on the road, the events at camp, and of course, the fight with the rock monster.
 
Rock Monster's Dice Rolls:
Attack = 16
Defend = 7

GM Note This is a test mechanic and is subject to change. Your first and second rolls will always be attack and defend, respectively.
In this instance, your defend roll must be greater than or equal to 16 to defend or dodge. If you have a DEX of 7, add +1 to your roll, DEX of 9 add +2, and DEX 10 +3. Anything below a 7 is +0.
The monster rolled a 7 for his defense. To land a hit, your attack roll must be greater than or equal to 7. If you are using a physical attack, use your STR modifier to add to your attack roll.
If you are using magic, use your INT modifier.

Again, this is all a test mechanic so things will change in the future. I want to hear your feedback as we progress and any ideas you guys may have. This is your RP as well so I want things to be fair, a challenge, and most of all, fun.
 
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Peri let out a laugh at the little mage's bite back. "Oh my, you're an unpleasant one. I see why the witch didn't want you to come along... And I am offended that you see me as a woman of such simple tastes. I'll have you know it was a shortsword, actually. Long story short, it was a bet a while back, kind of stupid. But I did get to keep the sword." She answered back lightly with a smirk, some exaggeration in her tone of voice. She was not easily offended by personal attacks, and frankly could not take Grace very seriously. "Peri Barcarole," She finally introduced herself, "Oh, how I sooo look forward to being teammates." The sarcasm in her voice was blatantly obvious.

Lionel however, upon hearing the insult, did not take the insult as lightly. Seeing it asan attack to his pride, he angrily turned to Grace and attempted to jump from Peri's shoulder at the mage. But Peri quickly grabbed the puppet mid-air, trying to keep him in her grasp as he fought in her hands to break free. "Whoa, chill out bud! C'mon!" She fought to strap him to her belt. "I know, I know-- Just get i-- slow down, you know I can't understand you when you're like this." She said down to him, sounding like she was arguing with nothing as Lionel only flailed his arms at her. But finally Peri was able to calm down her companion enough to get him attached to the belt.

While she was doing this, however, she didn't notice Willet take offense to her remarks earlier and just as she secured Lionel in, she fell to the ground with a loud thud. "Son of a--!!" She could only look back up surprised, quickly having to get back up and keep pace with the rest of the group. "I take everything I said back. I don't like her." She mumbled annoyed under her breath. Lionel would also felt the impact, nodded back.

"HEY WITCH. Why don't you just go and take that damn broom of yours and shove it up your--SHIT!" She tried yelling before her feet flew up and she landed butt-first onto the ground again. Her disregard for Willet's position as their leader probably caused her to be dealt the most punishment from the witch (the butt of the witch's cruelty, if you will). Whenever she would fall, it would only be moments later before she would try saying something again only to be cut off by another trip to the ground. It eventually came the point that Peri started getting blurry vision and hearing ringing in the back of her head from falling down so often. Lionel eventually had calmed down and rode on Peri's shoulder again. Making a game of all her falling by practicing his landings. From how many times he got to practice, he became much better at really sticking his landings.

"Oh yes, I'm sure your ass is quite tired from-- OOF!" She tried to comment as they finally came to camp, but one last flick of the wrist sent her falling down again. With how many times it had happened, one would guess that the bard would learn her lesson. But she could never help herself. The events of the trip definitely did show how persistent she was, though. Begrudgingly, she followed Willet's instructions, and eventually hunted down a deer with a dart to the head and a blade the throat.

Dragging it back to camp, she met up with the other two, only to find a giant rock monster in the clearing. "Well this is just bloody fantastic..." She muttered as the earthen fist came flying at them. She attempted to roll out of the way, and despite it colliding with her or not, she made quick work of trying to recover and back onto her feet before she pulled out her lute. "Alright you two, it's showtime. Get in there and kill that thing!" She started strumming a fast and light-hearted tune, an inspirational aura coming from her because of her song. Her "allies" felt a surge within them, giving them more motivation, confidence, and power as the tune started to fill their ears.

She began to sing her song:
"There's a monster made of rock, the fighting has begun
You two better hope that you're alive when this is done
One, you're just a kid; the other, you're a snob
Seriously though, don't actually fail our first damn job"

Dice Roll Totals:
Dodge (+1 Bonus): 7
Inspiration: +2
 
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Sensing the two females spiral further into discord, Jin decided to make himself scarce and eject himself from the conversation quickly. Just what was it about the people from the west, or was it just the women, who constantly had a tongue and bark that was always so provoking and intentionally baiting, always ready to partake in arguments. Had they never heard of subtly, or … well, now that he thought about it, that sounded exactly like the type of people that adventure guilds often attracted. It would seem that the Blood Price was no exception, nor was he.

That was a bit of a lesson that he painfully remembered throughout the day, as the damnable witch gleefully sent them to the ground, laugh tinkering and wrist flying to and fro as she damned well pleased. It wasn’t purely random though, no. He blamed superstition, but eventually was forced to recognize that every time he silently began strings of curses at the witch, the wrist came around to punish the three. Jin definitely was not as subtle and aloof as he often paraded himself to be.

It would have been very hard to, considering that by the time they had reached camp, his rear had definitely more than one bruise, he was sure the three of them shared that particular injury. More than that though, throughout the day, with the sun bright overhead, and the witches joy in pummeling them to the ground, his clothes had turned out dusted and dirtied. The white of the fur had taken just the lightest of yellow hues, and it bothered him. Immensely.

When the order to go gather wood came, he cared not for the way the witch had order him, like a mutt or hound. It was a chance to be free from the accursed woman. Like hell she would care if he took a detour to dunk his head in water, or to climb a tree and take in the view. To top it off, that was perhaps the word set of words, orders, demands, that Jin could heartedly agree with. After all, he, for one, did not wish to consider sleeping without a source of heat for the night. Unfortunately for him, Jin did not exactly plan out how to manage his time as best as he could. By the time his arms were full of suitable branches, sticks, a short log or two, he found himself dreading the idea of hauling them for longer than necessary. It would seem that a trip back to the camp site would be best, even if it meant returning back to the witch. Ugh.

What awaited back at camp was ... well, Jin would decide later if it was a more welcome sight than the witch afterwards. Surprise took him, but even he had the sense to drop the deadweights in his arms. He had used boulders of different sized throughout his training, but none had ever reached an envious height of 10 feet, and had the ability to strike back. Jin did not want to think of the repercussions, or which part of his body he would have to sacrifice to fend off the flying fist of stone headed their way. Despite his wishes though, there really was no room to contest with a 10 foot monster with the arm span that matched it's height. Jumping would clip his legs, an advantage over the giant, taking the hit may send him flying to god knows where ... truly, it was not an ideal situation.

Wasting precious seconds cringing at the screech the monster let off, Jin hurried to try and drop onto his stomach as fast as he could, arms cradling his head as best as he could should he miscalculate and not find enough space to guarantee his safety. Whether he was swept to the side, sent rolling from an impact or miraculously survived, the sound of Peri managed to have him snapping a rasping retort to the woman.

"Showtime?" He would cough, dust or blood grinding in his teeth, "I fear for your audience if you actually think dirtied filth belongs on a stage," he referred to his, or rather their, state of clothing and disheveled selves. A quick ... something surged through his heart as the bard began to weave her magic and music together. Anger, he concluded quickly. "The hell kind of song is that?!" Jin would cry, in disbelief, though his eyebrows knitted in confusion and anger, his hand came to form a fist, a glow immediately pulsating from it.

Surging to his feet, in a mix of stubbornness, anger and unknowingly, the bard's motivation - surely if he were to put the monster down, her songs would gain a more lovely note - Jin's vision cleared and seriously doubting his ability to avoid or defend another hit within the monster's range, his jaw clenched realizing that he'd better remain where he was. Denied his favored method of brutally neutralizing threats with a more personal touch, he instead directed the excessive energy and momentum normally reserved for fast paced combat into the growing golden aura that encompassed his fist, his still form generating more than enough to continue feeding the hungry glow until he deemed it fit to see battle.

Overloaded, the golden hue was trembling from instability when Jin fired it off. Practiced motions quickly swept through his limbs, a step forward, arms brought up and fist flying straight and true, a ripple in the air, gold in color, served as the catalyst that sent the gathered life force in his hand shooting off towards the stone monster. Upon hitting the monster, it would unravel and detonate, in a sense, shock waves of another's (Jin's) disruptive energies would meet the monsters, and Jin sincerely hoped that his emptied hands, once full of angry and stressful energies, would cripple and stagger the monster, considering the days events that weighed heavily on his emotional well being.

Turning towards the ... Grace was it, he barked out in a cough, "Short stack, you got anything to throw at him, too? Something big maybe?"

Change Log: GM permission to edit post to better suit the natural 20 rolled. Changed only touched upon the very end where Jin attacks.
 
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“The feeling is mutual.” Finished a clearly annoyed Grace. It seemed that through all this Peri was going to get on her nerves even more than the witch. Her gazed turned once again towards the back of their leader but it took only a few seconds to get her distracted once again, this time by the clearly agitated Lionel. She kept her mouth shut as Peri tried to calm down her lively puppet and once it was done the young mage decided to keep going, a grin covering her face “Ohh so the ugly ragdoll has a secret or two. I’ll be sure to remember it when I get curious enough.” Before anything else could be said or done Grace took a step back in surprise as she saw the bard suddenly fall, her rear now on the ground. She gave her teammate a curious look that was replaced seconds after mocking one “Finally the old hag and I are in the same-“Thought Grace until her mind was thrown off by a sudden trip to the ground, landing in the exact same way Peri had just before. A quick look revealed that Jin had also shared their fate. The witch’s laugh as she moved further away from them pissed her off more than anything else but the young mage was a quick learner so she remained silent while removing some dust off her cloak before she began following her superior once again. It wasn’t too long before her teammates caught up to her. “You can’t like a witch. You just… put up with them.” Was her answer to Peri’s comment only to be thrown once again into the dirt seconds after. A quick learner, just not quick enough.

It felt like eons until the witch declared that it was time to take a break. The body of a magic wielder was indeed weaker compared to the common folk but anyone would feel like crap after being drop into the floor so many times, her now dust filled cloak not making the situation any better. On the bright side she was the one how received the least amount of punishment in the group, Grace almost felt bad for Peri after losing count of how many times she was thrown around. Almost. After Willet’s gave everyone their orders she quickly left through what could only be described as a dimensional rift with the young girl astonished during the whole thing. Grace was no fool; she knew that despite whatever she said she was an elementalist. In her area of expertise she could control the elements in ways others could only dream off but things like a magic gateway would always be out of her reach. Regardless of her jealousy, watching a spell she had only seen in pictures was an amazing experience, one that distracted her long to the point that when she regained her senses both Jin and Peri were already leaving to carry their tasks.

It took her only a few minutes to find what she was looking for; a clean river. A normal person would have to fill something with the water and carry it back but not her. She introduced her hand into the water and when it was removed the liquid slowly followed. The orb was big enough to fill anything they wanted back in the camp and light as a feather; a bit of concentration to keep it floating was all she needed. The idea seemed perfect until upon returning to the camp she was greeted by a massive golem and judging by its behavior not a friendly one. Grace wondered if it was Willet playing a trick on them or not but that could be answered later. Without doubt the young mage threw her water orb back, blowing it up like a bubble while wasting all her precious water before taking a battle stance, her left hand free as the right one held her staff. Grace was about to prepare her plan of attack until she heard a familiar voice, it was Peri performing a rather strange song. In other situation the young mage would have probably complained with her teammate but battle was different for her, feeling the bard’s power flow through her body was all that mattered.

The battle started with Jin taking the first bite at the beast while she prepared, rushing in head first against a golem was not in her want-to-do list for the moment. She decided her next move and since Jin agreed with her choice, judging by his rude request, it was time to show them a real magic user at work. “Something big coming right now!” Yelled Grace as she raised her staff, now covered in an orange and yellow aura, before aiming at the beast with it. “’Fireball ‘Shot’” Suddenly a large orb of flame left her weapon and moved at medium speed towards its target, however the young mage had been reckless in her attack. The spell she had just cast had a longer than normal cast time, which meant that she was now too close to make an easy escape from the large arm that was about to hit her.
 
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The rock monster’s initial swing connected with Peri and Jin, sending them both sprawling to the ground. The collision with them both caused the monster’s punch to divert, missing wide of Grace.

Peri and Jin quickly recovered. Peri began a tune that had no effect on the monster but appeared to bolster her allies. Jin, managing to his feet sent a powerful, golden glowing attack at the rock monster. It connected to its right shoulder leading to an explosion of golden aura, rock, and earth. The monster fell to its knee, shoulder and arm falling from the body. Weakened, it had no way to dodge the incoming fireball from Grace. The monster took it square to the chest, fire bursting and scorching its rock body, a crippling screech that sounded like grating rocks emanated from the monster. Pieces of earth and stone were falling from the monster, hardly looking more than a jumbled pile of rocks.

In a last ditch effort, backed into a corner, the monster jumped 20 feet into the air, curling into a ball. It impacted the earth, sending a shockwave through the ground and a wave of dirt towards the adventurers.

GM Note So, as we’ve decided, make a post first with your rolls then go back and edit once you’ve seen the results. The monster rolled a critical with its attack so play the hit well and take damage. I know the monster rolled a 17 for its defense but I am reducing it to a 9 for simplicities sake.

Rock Monster’s roll:
Attack: 20 - critical
Defense: 9
 
Peri watched, slightly impressed at the display of battle abilities from her companions, watching as they took the monster apart, bits of its rock body crumbling around it. She kept her inspiration song going until she saw the monster prepare itself for another attack with a loud screech.

She braced herself as she watched the rock monster leap into the air and begin to fall straight back down into the ground. But then she felt Lionel trying to get her attention from his place on her belt by vigorously tugging on her shirt. “What is it, Lionel?! Kind of in the middle of something!” She asked down to him. The puppet began making a series of fast and almost panicked movements. “An idea?” Many would have no idea what he would be trying to say, but Peri did, getting the message quite clearly. “Not a bad idea, bud! Not bad at all!” She grinned down at him, who gave a thumbs up back.

As the huge tidal wave of earth came rushing at them, it looked like there was nearly no way to avoid it. It was coming at them relentlessly quickly as well, so its power would be hard to block as well. But instead of moving the opposite direction, Peri started running in the direction of the wave, silently hoping to herself that the idea would work. Using the power from her own inspiration, she felt the rush of energy build up in her legs as she quickly leapt above the wave, using the one of the rocks as another platform to jump from as she did an impressive flip in the air as she came over the wave, landing on her feet at the other side, giving a bow out of arrogance and habit.

She let out a triumphant laugh, “HA HA! Not today you ugly pile of boulders! Caught me off guard the first time, but it’ll take more to knock me down again!” She loudly mocked the monster, glad she had done enough jumps from things like bar tables before to be able to perform stunts like that.

She looked back to the other two, hoping the were still alive after the wave hit them. “Hey, you two! You still alive? You gotta be when this one is almost finished! I can distract it, maybe give you an opening! You just have to finish it off with another round of your flashy stuff-- so don’t mess this up!” She yelled back at them before turning back to the monster, lute ready in her hands.

“Hey, Rockface! Over here!” She said, bringing her fingers to her mouth and whistling at the monster. Her goal was to bring its attention to her and away from the rest of the group as she ran in a direction away from them. She started playing her lute again, but this time instead of a motivational aura coming from her song, there was a purple glow coming from the instrument as she started another melody.

“Look at you crumbling bit by bit
You're nothing but a waste of rock and space
So this is it"

She sang as the purple aura built up in her lute before shooting out at the creature. She noticed it didn’t seem to do any damage to the monster, probably because it was just an angry pile of rocks, but she hoped the noise at least acted as the distraction needed for the others to come in safely and finish it off.

Peri's Rolls: (+2 Inspiration)
Attack: 4
Defense (+1): 20 lmao not dying today thank you very much
 
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When the consecutive explosions landed, Jin was pleased beyond words. For the smallest of moments, he was sure that as rocks and ruins fell onto the ground, that the monster had been bested. When the monster looked as if it were to keel over though, imagine his surprise when the beast took to the skies. Just how was something that tall and heavy able to accomplish this, he thought, bewildered.

Nonetheless, Jin’s thoughts scrambled to figure out his next move. The initial punch from the monster had left him weakened, limiting his options. Even if he had freedom to move as he pleased, charging upfront against something that could jump twice it’s height was suicidal. Time ran out, and Jin braced himself for the earthquake that would accompany the landing of the monster. Only for his breath to stop, and color to drain from his person. Oh, it was like looking into the abyss, the end of all things, when the torrent of filth, dirt, and unnameable pieces of grime and sludge raced towards them all.

The best he could do, given where he had landed since the punch, was to quickly scramble behind the two trees closest to him, hoping that they’d provide some kind of protection. It wouldn’t last a second, that he knew, but he sincerely hoped that it would at least take away the initial brunt of the wave, and that he’d simply get buried at worst and -

When he came to, a gasp turning into coughs and chokes as dirt spat out from his mouth, it was to the sound of Peri. She sounded quite confident and enthusiastic, so he could only assume that she had overcome that particular attack with her slippery ways. Bards. Nonetheless, hearing that the monster was on it’s last legs, and that Peri would buy them the time to properly take care of it, duty roared within. It was one thing to simply tell him to defeat a monster, but when someone else stuck their neck out, to help benefit him, it sat as a hard weight on him. He’d be damned he messed up now.

As much as he wanted to snap back at her, retort to her ‘don’t mess this up’ or make rude gestures behind her back, he bit his tongue as her lute and song came through. He feared that he’d ruin whatever distraction she was making if he decided to give into his urge to cut back at her. His legs were solidly trapped within the dirt, though he knew that nothing would have pierced through the scale lined pants of his, that only left the top of his body - ragged, dirtied, slime dripping top half - to pop out into the air once more.

It was humiliating, but that would not stop him. Not when the fiend responsible for his sorry state was about to knock at death’s door. Bringing both fists together knuckle to knuckle, Jin gathered his life force again. Weak, even when muck was splattered across his person, indignity and anger should have soared, but somehow remained muted. He was tired, and his life force reflected that. Jin clicked his tongue, he thought he had accounted for that, by using both fists instead of one, but truly, even if he had tried to pick up whatever traces of explosive life force, all he could gather was a wispy, faint golden hue, significantly smaller than his initial one. It would have to do, and after all, weak or not, an explosion was an explosion. May the fiend go out in a fiery blaze, no matter how unremarkable it was.

Pulling his fists apart then drilling them both in front of him, strong, wickedly fast, the shaky wisp was off sailing towards the monster. It was a bit of a sad sight compared to his first one. It looked as if it struggled to support its own form, it speed a steady momentum but only just satisfactory considering the distance and height it had to reach to the monster’s head - or chest, he’d settle for chest if it landed there.

“Short stack, you best shoot something worth remembering for the history books here,” he said, whether Grace heard or not was secondary, “at least one of us as to make up for my tragic performance here, it would absolutely devastating if our first battle ended mediocrely.” Finding Peri after a few moment of searching for her, “Give that Bard something that’ll render her speechless, it’ll be for all our benefits,” he grimace, unpleasant thoughts of the witch and his rear suddenly breaking through.
 
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