DoubleChecker

[Duchy Wilds] In the Quiet Jungle

Sir Edwin Stormcrest?

​

Music

youtube.com/watch?v=09u0rZJ0WEs&list=…

Titles
[Human - Mundane], [Noble Ryke Baron] B, [Apprentice Lancer], [Power Potential], [Get Looped], [Dark Knight], [Knight in Black], [Dark Horseman] - #0E0101
Noteworthy Skills: [Resilient Surprised], Regeneration F
Asset Goal: Northern Ryke Village [Name Pending] F

When the death of the mana beast was confirmed, Edwin didn’t spare a second glance at the creature. With his grip around the small cub shifting, the cold armored fingers now enveloping the little runt in its cold embrace, the dark knight turned towards the exit of the chamber.

For a moment, he didn’t move. His eyes shuttered close, chin tilted upwards glancing to the starts, even in their absence. An act of communion to powers beyond mortal ken, made both possible and perfect by the deafening silence.

And there he stood, for a few moments more, until his eyes slowly opened. His attention to the arch that led outside the chamber. Turning on his heels, the sound of metal hitting the stone floor with each step fought over dominance with the serpentine hiss of the lingering necrotic powers.

That was, until the sound of approaching footsteps reached his ears, reverberating in front of him. For a moment, when a darkness that darted towards him was caught, the rasping of his lance could be heard. “Another fool to the slaughter? Very well, I shall do you this favor.” His grave, cold voice echoed, his intent clear.

The armament was hold in battle stance for a few moments more, until a stray ray of sunshine, that laboriously managed to make its way through the cracks of the ruins, allowed him a glimpse.
The colorful hair was unmistakable.

“Aedrianna?” His question was followed by the clinking of his lance against the floor, the weapon let aside as the arm that wielded it wrapped around her back, holding her close to him. “What happened to you?” He posed the question, as his hand, the one cradling the small pup, sneaked its way into placing the little run into her herb pouch.

HP: 4/5 - Regeneration F 2/6
Cooldowns: C 3/3

[Duchy Wilds] In the Quiet Jungle

Sir Edwin Stormcrest?

​

Music

youtube.com/watch?v=Lxhvesbwz3E&list=…

Titles
[Human - Mundane], [Noble Ryke Baron] B, [Apprentice Lancer], [Power Potential], [Get Looped], [Dark Knight], [Knight in Black], [Dark Horseman] - #0E0101
Noteworthy Skills: [Resilient Surprised], Regeneration F
Asset Goal: Northern Ryke Village [Name Pending] F

The faint smile on Edwin’s lips bloomed into a full, vicious grin that stretched from ear-to-ear with the wet and sizzling sound that reached his ears, heralding the foolish cultist’s demise. However, things soon changed as teeth made contact with steel, a silent exhale leaving his lips to the rotten creature’s attempted bite.

“Hmph…” His icy-blue orbs zeroed on the undead beast, scorn etched across the baron’s features. “... useless resistance. See? This one might very well be the one who delivers you back to ash.” His hand moved, bringing the hissing and groaning pup to the forefront.

“Now that the other cur is dead, it is high-time you take your rightful position: on the ground, slumped like the carcass you are.” He didn’t know if the being could even understand him, nor did he care. It was time to put the abhorrent being down.

The sudden sound of metal slamming against stone echoed in the chamber, the dark knight charged the Mana Beast with his three-pronged spear pointing towards it, couching without a mount.

And when reaching close enough to it, once more there was the crackling of thunder, sizzling of electricity that appeared to run from tip to shaft. He thrusted the lance against the creature, a quick stab aimed right at its decaying face. [Action 1]

Still, not content with it, Edwin would pull the lance back, before raising it, above his own head, then bringing it down, like a hammer, to slam on right on top of the undead being’s head. [Action 2]

Actions:
1 - Fighting Style [Lance] F + Blight [Lightning] F + Continuing [Lightning] F + Energized F - Grade F 0 Posts Cooldown - Strength A (6) + Lance B (5) + Fighting Style F (1) = 12 Base Effectiveness + 1 damage from Blight [Lightning] F if hits + 1 damage from Continuing [Lightning] F if hits
2 - Basic attack + 1. Total Base Effectiveness 13

HP: 4/5 - Regeneration F 1/6
Cooldowns: C 2/3

[Duchy Wilds] In the Quiet Jungle

Sir Edwin Stormcrest?

​

Music

youtube.com/watch?v=Lxhvesbwz3E&list=…

Titles
[Human - Mundane], [Noble Ryke Baron] B, [Apprentice Lancer], [Power Potential], [Get Looped], [Dark Knight], [Knight in Black], [Dark Horseman] - #0E0101
Noteworthy Skills: [Resilient Surprised], Regeneration F
Asset Goal: Northern Ryke Village [Name Pending] F

A scoff left Edwin’s lips as he watched the umbral wave consume parts of both the undead beast and the plain individual. “Just as expected.” He murmured, thinking that would be the end of this folly. But, to his ‘surprise’ it wasn’t.

The laughter reached his ears, sounding like nothing more than the death throes of a madman. It made him shift his posture, the three-pronged lance being held higher, slightly above his own head, just like a trident. “Ah, but that is where you are mistaken, weakling. For those who bear true strength, the natural laws only exist to be bent and shaped however they wish.”

His azure eyes narrowed into dangerous slits during the next beat, the cultist, that plain figure who once only observed, began to charge him, going for his legs. In tandem, the undead beast in front of him prepared its own lunge to try and snap at him. And, even with the risk of a pincer attack, the dark horseman looked as composed as always.

“Not that you need to worry about your own inadequacies for too long. Pretty soon, you will cease to exist.” Declaring to be so with utmost confidence, the hand which held the pup was raised higher.

Bearing his center, Edwin prepared to withstand the impact of the biting beast, instead focusing his efforts to finish off the cultist. Receiving the bite against his plated armor while in defensive form [Action 1], he bid his time until the cultist lowered to try and reach for his own leg.

When such a moment arrived, in a harpooning motion, the dark knight stabbed at the cultist, aiming at the top of his head, his lance fully crackling with energy as it travelled throughout its length and a smaller, dark pulse, like a heartbeat, pinged from his feet outward. [Action 2]

Actions:
1 - Block - Athletics F + Energized F - Grade F 0 Post cooldown - Vitality B (5) + Heavy Armor C (4) + Ability F (1) = 10 Base Effectiveness (-1 health from event, blocking ignores most debuffs)
2 - Fighting Style [Lance] F + Blight [Lightning] F + Continuing [Lightning] F + Aura F (1) [Darkness (Necrotic)] + Area F (5ft) + Selective F (Sparing the cub and the Skythorn Blossoms only) + Energized F - Grade F 0 Posts Cooldown - Strength A (6) + Lance B (5) + Fighting Style F (1) = 12 Base Effectiveness + 1 damage from Blight [Lightning] F if hits + 1 damage from Continuing [Lightning] F if hits + 1 damage from Aura F (1) [Darkness (Necrotic)] upon contact (automatic)

HP: 4/5
Cooldowns: C 1/3

[Duchy Wilds] In the Quiet Jungle

Sir Edwin Stormcrest?

​

Music

youtube.com/watch?v=qzR47RoKUUY

Titles
[Human - Mundane], [Noble Ryke Baron] B, [Apprentice Lancer], [Power Potential], [Get Looped], [Dark Knight], [Knight in Black], [Dark Horseman] - #0E0101
Noteworthy Skills: [Resilient Surprised], Regeneration F
Asset Goal: Northern Ryke Village [Name Pending] F

CLINK.

The heels of his sabatons pinged against the stony floors which had replaced the earthy ground from the altar surroundings. His azure orbs began scanning the new scenery he found himself in, noticing the moss that clang to those ancient walls, the cool breeze that blowed against his face and billowed his crimson cape. “Hmph, a magical trap. Typical of weaklings.” He said in derision, annoyed instead of worried.

His eyes eventually landed upon the corpse upon the cracked dais, tilting his head slightly as he noticed the changes in the carcass. And, staring at it for a moment longer, the spasm of what should be dead, what should be still, was caught.

SHINK.

What followed was the soft thud of the flowers hitting the floor and Edwin’s lance scrapping against the ground softly, before having its blunt ending slammed against the ground, breaking one of the ancient tiles. “Can I really be greedy for what is mine already? If I can conquer, crush, have it under my heel, is it not my domain already?”

Looking at the figure from over his shoulder, the corners of dark knight lips curled upwards slightly. “After all, if no one can stand before me, who can deny me of my claims?” With a narrowing glance, his attention returned to the creature before him, sizing it like a hunter does with its prey.

“A magical creature that was sacrificed by the hands of whom? Cultist? Fanatics?” Scoffing, the beast looked nothing more than another obstacle in his path. And, finally paying attention to the trashing little pup which he held by the scruff, his voice lowered. “May this be a lesson to you, little thing, of what I’m capable of.”

Without another word, the crackling of electricity began filling the air. Pitch-black shadows, as dark as Edwin’s armor, danced at his feet, stirring ominously. And, lifting the lance from the hole in the ground created earlier, an umbral pulse was released once. “This is [My Domain]!” His words were punctuated by the slamming of his lance on the ground once more.

A wave of electricity and darkness would shoot from his position as its epicenter. Only the flowers and the cub were spared from it, as it tried to engulf everything, and everyone, in its 50ft radius. [Action 1/2]

Actions:
1/2 - My Domain - Fighting Style [Lance] C + Blight [Lightning] F + Continuing [Lightning] F + Aura D (1) [Darkness (Necrotic)] + Area D (50ft) + Selective D (Sparing the cub and the Skythorn Blossoms only) + Incapacitating D (1) - Grade C 3 Posts Cooldown - Strength A (6) + Lance B (5) + Fighting Style C (4) = 15 Base Effectiveness + 1 damage from Blight [Lightning] F if hits + 1 damage from Continuing [Lightning] F if hits + 3 damage from Aura D (1) [Darkness (Necrotic)] upon contact (automatic) + possibility of knocking the targets into kneeling position from Incapacitating D. Damage potential total 20

[Duchy Wilds] In the Quiet Jungle

Sir Edwin Stormcrest?

​

Music

youtube.com/watch?v=4Y6n-1XQSfE

Titles
[Human - Mundane], [Noble Ryke Baron] B, [Apprentice Lancer], [Power Potential], [Get Looped], [Dark Knight], [Knight in Black], [Dark Horseman] - #0E0101
Noteworthy Skills: [Resilient Surprised], Regeneration F
Asset Goal: Northern Ryke Village [Name Pending] F

“People…?” His voice was a murmur, wondering who, or more accurately what, Aedrianna might be referring to. His azure gaze scanned their surroundings, the hand not relaxing even the slightest of the hold on her leg. Downward was clearly a path that wouldn’t be allowed.

And then she found it. Seeing her short-lived commemoration of having found her bounty, a small smile appeared on his lips. “It might be only one, yes, but it is miles better than zero. It takes a series of small victories, until full conquest. Don’t you forget that: one step at the time.”

Reaching one gauntleted hand over her head, he rubbed the very top of it, messing up her hair slightly, on purpose. “Mmm? Oh, there were claw marks on the trees in the path we came from. Either an animal or an animal-person must have done it… well, can’t discount a monster as well.”

Retracting his hand, he looked back at the path with narrowing eyes. “We will certainly find something, you can count on that.” With his head tilted upward slightly, he felt prepared for whatever could be waiting for them.

The baron intertwined fingers with her, protectively and possessively all the same. And, as they ascended, every once in a while his orbs flicked towards her, being drawn by her smile. And each time, his expression softened, only to harden once more as he focused on their surroundings.

Then, there was the altar.

At the sacrificial sight atop it, beast mangled and its vitae being used by whatever nefarious ends, Edwin showed little reaction, other than arching a single golden eyebrow. “Hoh… did we just stumble upon a cult?” Those words danced out of his lips, nose scrunching slightly. “And not only any cult, one that performs sacrifices to overcome their own… inadequacies.”

The dark horseman stepped forward, unafraid, uncaring and unmoved. Reaching one particular cluster of the Skythorne Blossoms, he swooped his armored hand at it and yanked off the ground, claiming dominion even upon the corrupted soil. [Action 1]

“Do you think these can be used?” Looking over his shoulder, he asked Aedrianna, attention snapping back upon hearing the whining that came from the creature’s cadaver upon the sacrificial slab. “Mmmm?”

Approaching the sacrilegious epicenter fully, and without ceremony, until his eyes pinpointed the source: a cub. “What do we have here…” He murmured, free-hand reaching into the body and retrieving the pup by the scruff of its neck [Action 2]. “... aren’t you a lucky one?” He lifted the insignificant little being in front of his face to have a good look at it.

Actions:
1 - Ripped the Skythorne Blossoms off the ground with - Superstrength E + Energized E - 0 Posts Cooldown
2 - Retrieved the pup

[Duchy Wilds] In the Quiet Jungle

Sir Edwin Stormcrest?

​

Music

youtube.com/watch?v=4Y6n-1XQSfE

Titles
[Human - Mundane], [Noble Ryke Baron] B, [Apprentice Lancer], [Power Potential], [Get Looped], [Dark Knight], [Knight in Black], [Dark Horseman] - #0E0101
Noteworthy Skills: [Resilient Surprised], Regeneration F
Asset Goal: Northern Ryke Village [Name Pending] F

“You might want to prepare properly before darting in to get the plants. Walking around in drenched clothes is bound to give you a cold.” His tone lowered, amusement palpable on it. Whatever crossed his mind was certainly something terrifyingly wonderful.

The beast of burden responded to its coat being brushed, letting out a loud snort, while its big, crimson orbs looked around, almost as if scanning the place just like its owner.

While the two moved even deeper into the forest, those small hints that could point to something amiss began to surface. His icy-blue gaze spend only a singular moment on the footprints, instead zeroing fully on one of the claw marks that adorned a slashed bark.

“It seems that whatever crossed through here is either beast or half-beast.” Stopping in front of the tree, he extended his hand, one clawed finger tapping the mark. “What pitiful of a hunter ending up becoming the hunted instead.” Clicking his tongue in displeasure, he turned once more to the path and marched forward.

And then his eyes narrowed into slits, seeing how Aedrianna darted forward without a singular care in the world and placed herself at the edge of the peril. For a second, he just looked at her, his mind reeling on how she looked just like a mischievous kid, caring little about the possible consequences of their actions.

“Quite the dangerous place to find them, is it not? But I expected as such.” Without silencing or forgoing the bells of warning that rang in his mind, thanks to the deafening quietness of that whole place, the dark horseman strutted forward, one hand reaching down to size Aedrianna’s leg just under her knee. After all, you never know…

[Ryken - Ryke] The First Steps

The midday sun streams through the high, arched windows of the Ryken Adventurer's Guild, illuminating dust motes dancing in the air. The main hall is a cavern of noise and activity. Grizzled veterans share stories over ale at heavy oak tables, while aspiring adventurers cluster around the massive request boards that line the far wall.

Your group, fresh faced and clutching newly issued F-Rank guild medallions, has just accepted your first official job from the F-Rank board. It is a simple, classic starter quest:

ESCORT NEEDED, F-RANK
Client: Master Valerius, Alchemist (Merchant's Guild Affiliated)
Task: Escort one (1) handcart of non volatile alchemical reagents from the Ryken South Gate to the village of Silverstream.
Duration: Approx. 1 day travel.
Payment: 400 Rykes (to be split) upon successful delivery.
Notes: Low risk travel path. Supervision by an assigned senior guild member is required for this consignment.

After getting the notice stamped at the main desk, the guild receptionist, a harried looking woman with ink stained fingers, pointed you toward a small, semi private alcove near the back of the hall. "Your supervisor is waiting for you there," she had said, already turning to the next person in line.

As you approach the alcove, a figure stands with his back to you, dramatically staring out a window. He is clad in resplendent armor of blue and gold, polished to a mirror sheen. A flamboyant red scarf is draped artfully around his neck. Even from a distance, a faint, powerful hum of mana emanates from his equipment, a scent as distinct as ozone after a lightning strike.

He turns as you draw near, and the grand image is immediately undercut by reality. He has prominent buck teeth set in an awkward, self satisfied grin, and a nose that seems just a bit too large for his face. He puffs out his chest, but his tone is one of magnanimous welcome.

Justin-sama

“Ah, there you are! The next generation of Ryke's protectors! Wonderful, wonderful!” his voice booms with overblown confidence. “I am Justin sama. It is my distinct pleasure, and of course, my duty as a senior member, to oversee your very first mission. A momentous occasion!”
He gives your group a sweeping, appraising look. Instead of a sneer, he offers a wide, buck toothed smile.

“Yes, I see the fire of ambition in your eyes! It reminds me of a much younger, though naturally more gifted, version of myself.” He winks, a gesture that does not quite land. “Now, the task is simple, a perfect whetstone upon which to sharpen your new skills. We are to escort a cart to Silverstream. I will, of course, be observing your performance. Consider me your guide! Any questions? Feel free to ask! The first step to wisdom is admitting you know nothing compared to an expert like myself. No questions? Splendid! Let us embark!”

With a grand, welcoming gesture toward the door, Justin sama begins striding toward the guild hall's main exit, his red scarf fluttering behind him. He glances back over his shoulder, clearly expecting you to follow in his magnificent wake.

The floor is yours. What do you do?

[Ryken - Ryke] The First Steps

(To join, read up the recruitment here - roleplayerguild.com/topics/196754-a-h… . All are welcome!)

[Ryken - Ryke] The First Steps

Here we go!

A high-fantasy, anime experience!

From the frozen northern lands, always under the threat of demonic invasions, to the southern nations who just recently were warring against each other and now have an even more problematic, deadlier threat to contend with, there is no shortage of adventure to be had within the second continent.

However, for now, you find yourself in the Protectorate of Ryke, a bustling mercantile metropolis. And, at the adventurers guild, you find a bounty: guard a merchant's cart of alchemical supplies to the nearby village of Silverstream. It's a straightforward, one-day journey on a well-traveled road, the perfect starting quest.
There's just one small catch.
The client has insisted on senior supervision. Your supervisor, the famous Justin-sama, is... a character. While incredibly arrogant and convinced of his own brilliance, he seems to view this mission as a chance to benevolently guide the next generation of adventurers (that's you!). Expect patronizing advice and backhanded compliments.

Link to the RP: roleplayerguild.com/topics/196755-ryk…

What to Expect:

• Robust System: Abilities being broken down into skills allows for a varied range of effects, mixing and matching to create greater effects. From elves to constructs, from a swordsman to a laser-gun wielding scientist, all sorts of builds are possible.
• Classic Adventure: A straightforward escort quest with opportunities for roleplaying, problem-solving, and introductory combat.
• Guided Experience: An NPC supervisor will accompany the party, providing a safety net and a (comical) source of conflict without overshadowing the players.
• Rich World: Takes place in the detailed Protectorate of Ryke, a land of commerce, diplomacy, and hidden tensions.

Looking for: 2-4 players ready to take their first steps into the world of adventuring. Come create your character and join the guild!

IC will take place here on roleplayerguild. OOC (talks, system information, lore, character sheets) take place on our Discord Server: discord.gg/BhbguM2a . Don't be shy and join up!