Red Gypsy@Tojin, And... still looking forward to it.
Haeo Member
One Who Listens Deeply
STATUS: Pirates, monsters, magic, islands and no civilization to steal from. Hmm. 5 yrs agoStatus
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5 yrs ago
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Pirates, monsters, magic, islands and no civilization to steal from. Hmm.
7 yrs ago
Now, what happens when you have a bunch of monsters that were living in a forest and they get transmigrated into a futuristic urban setting?
8 yrs ago
I know that few, if any, people on this site would be interested in it... but... I just got an idea for a SAO/GGO/XCOM/UFO crossover... fun tingles...
8 yrs ago
Life has never given mankind sufficient time... nor sleep... nor comprehension. If it had, we would have stopped trying.
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8 yrs ago
It can be greatly refreshing to return to a thing that one has long loved.
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Most Recent Posts
And I must again apologize for the continuation... of the continuation of our delay. I have had no contact from one of our GM Triumvirate and we are still attempting to complete the introductory scene. Once again, we are still interested in welcoming more players. At this point I think it is safe to say that a CS posted here will not instantly require a heavy commitment from the applicant. So, anyone interested, please craft a CS and post it. We can refine things and fill out our cast of characters while these rough spots get ironed out.
Also, would anyone be interested in having a trial battle thread in the mean time? A place to practice combat between PCs and GM controlled NPCs?
Also, would anyone be interested in having a trial battle thread in the mean time? A place to practice combat between PCs and GM controlled NPCs?
Day 16 Mid-Day
Tailpin read the PMs as they came. He kept up with Delcastle as he read but said nothing for a little while. This wasn't just another player he was dealing with now. It was his boss. Decorum mattered and the boss's time was always in high demand. It wouldn't do to waste it with chit-chat when there might be something valuable to say instead.
The conversation began with World Walkers' objectives and business model then moved into planned routes and marketing. It seemed well thought out. It also looked like the Guild might be likely to grow quickly once their value to the trapped community became more widely established. They moved quickly from one topic to another. Each was covered clearly but in no greater detail than necessary. Then the topic became combat formations and, Tailpin supposed, job title. It would seem that his job would be primarily acting as a forward scout for the guild with Delcastle himself, covering lots of ground and mapping it for the hunters who would follow after a good route was established. The bulk of the conversation wound to a close with a caution regarding the variables of combat and the name of his immediate superior, Cinera.
A feminine name and female pronouns with swordsman stated in the singular, that last raised an eyebrow for a second or two. For a guild in Sword Art Online to form with only one person actually using a sword was definitely a little unusual. Also, if she was involved in the rapid response portion of the formation then she was probably speed focused as well. They didn't have a true heavy sword. Still, that didn't mean that much at this level. They could start having trouble with armored monsters later though. Fast attacks had to be able to either damage or cripple in order to kite effectively. This archer would need to spend some time with his 'immediate supervisor' sooner rather than later, ideally in combat. With high speed battle, instinct was better than planning. Plans couldn't keep up the pace. He had to know that she trusted him and knew how he fought and he had to trust and know the same about her. Still, time would teach all of that.
The caution had more value to Tailpin as a mark of how much Delcastle valued his people. As this was as real as death could make a world become, it was critical to understand whether or not the boss thought of his people as expendible. Clearly, he did not. Though, there was something in his manner that hinted to Tailpin that he had already tried to come to grips with the probability of losing at least a couple guildmates along the way. It could simply be unavoidable as the risks of doing business increased. Yet, Tailpin felt that such a tragedy would hit his new Guild Leader far too hard.
If that did happen, then he would have to cover Delcastle in combat in case grief caused moments of weakness or slips in timing. Those two things were almost guaranteed with a person grieving. Tailpin knew that much from personal experience gained long before this game began. They were part of healing and he would never hold them against someone. All he would do is try to make sure that they didn't get anyone killed.
The PMs didn't require too much thought. They could be referred to later if he lost track of a detail or forgot part of the plan. There were a couple things that did bear a little closer examination.
The list, for example, was both simple and deceptive. In the end, almost all items within a game are designed to either increase the character's ability to survive or their ability to defeat enemies. However, this list seemed to focus on the former. Also, it wasn't just the completed items that were listed but the components required for players to craft them as well. There were two such items that Tailpin had in abundance, though they were very low level. If nothing else, they might be able to help out those who never gained the courage to leave the Town of Beginnings. Still, it wasn't up to him to decide if they were valuable enough to make items from.
He had a boss now, and the business to consider. If Delcastle had the connections and the business sense to really carry World Walkers forward through floor after floor of danger and profit then he would be the best person to find a use for the items that Tailpin had been holding on to. He had amassed a large stockpile of two items, "Poisoned Flesh" and "Dirty Dog Hide". He actually had a little over 900 of the hide and about 450 of the flesh. If there was value there above what vendors offered then Delcastle should be able to find it. Though it might not be easy. Neither of these items actually seemed to drop from monsters. Both of these items were the products of his Refining skill. He had never seen either of them drop as is and he hadn't actually sold any yet. In fact, it seemed unlikely that even the Information Brokers would know about them.
Tailpin's musing was cut short when he received a freshly minted guildwide message. So, he wouldn't be going along the mapped forest route but would be preparing to head into that gorge to the east of town. He hadn't gone on that side of town in two weeks, not since he mapped the immediate perimeter with Reaper and Emperor. He knew that Reaper would be fine but he did have a little concern about Emperor. Speed focused combat was sudden death. You had to have the reactions for it, not just the stats. Still, he had his own path to walk. He would need to gather supplies before heading out that far.
Yet, it seemed that the keen eye of his Guild Leader had discerned a higher priority for this archer. Yep, the bow was level five, an issue that he was already familiar with. Tailpin was more pleased by the fact that Delcastle had a ready solution to that problem than he was likely to admit. This boss seemed to be on top of things. It was a good sign.
"Understood, I'll get it done." He said simply. But, he modified the trade before accepting his end, adding one of his Poisoned Flesh and a Dirty Dog Hide. "Maybe you can find a use for these. I've amassed a bit of a stockpile in the past two weeks."
With that done, Tailpin headed toward the market's eastern most area. He kept his eyes open not only for a glaive but also for a stall that carried items that would mark the shopkeeper as a woodsman. This Marco might not carry his weapon while running his business since a large shafted weapon would probably get in the way.
There were a few stalls that visibly carried drop items that looked to be from forest creatures in the area near the eastern gate. But, there was only one that showed crafted items based on those drops. In fact, the reason why Delcastle sent him to this man to make the alternate deal was clear immediately.
There was a set of crafted bows on display. One was a shortbow, probably speed focused but it also looked lower level than what he had already. One was a crossbow and looked to be a heavy one at that. There were a few others in the range between them but a bow that looked to be composite with a stave almost long enough to be a longbow caught his eye and held it for a long moment. That might well be close to his level. It would definitely be an upgrade.
That was the last thing Tailpin contemplated before noticing that he had been standing there, staring, for several minutes while the shopkeeper attempted to get his attention. Man, he was tired. At least the job itself was a simple one.
"Sorry about that. Are you Marco?" He asked.
"That's me." Marco replied affably enough, though he seemed a little intrigued.
"I'm here for World Walkers with a delivery of leather for you." Tailpin continued, "But, Delcastle said to change the promised payment to a bow."
"Hmm? You must be new to that guild, not that anybody could really be an old hand at this point." Marco pursed his lips for a moment while looking over the gear Tailpin was wearing. "I see, so he's moving you guys on from the forest then and wants you up to spec. Alright, I have a bow that should suit you. In fact, you've got a good eye." He reached up onto his display and took down the composit bow. "This is the one. It should do nicely for you. But, you should know that this bow is less expensive to me than the original deal. Delcastle just did you a favor."
Tailpin smiled thinly as he opened the trade window and set up his end. "I had a feeling that he was. I'll just have to make it worthwhile for him."
"You do that, he's good business." Marco said with a subtle note of warning as he finished his end of the trade. "Thank him for the prompt delivery, would you?"
"Will do. Thank you for your business." Tailpin finished with a good stage smile, bowed slightly, and walked away.
He waited until he was out of sight of the merchant to drop the smile, switch to his new bow, and test the draw. It was closer to his strength limit but he should still be able to draw and fire quickly enough. With the quality of the bow confirmed, he pulled up his menu and sent a PM to Delcastle.
@Zelosse
DELCASTLE, MISSION COMPLETE. BOW IS SUITABLE.
CLIENT SENDS HIS THANKS FOR PROMPT DELIVERY.
GOING TO GATHER SUPPLIES FOR UPCOMING HUNT
PM IF ANY OTHER MISSIONS.
Tailpin headed to the area of the market with the greatest potion selection, yawning all the way. He still had a lot of extra coin by this market's standard. He actually had an idle thought about donating a chunk to the guild purse but decided against it. It would be of more benefit to the guild if he simply equipped himself with some extras for other party members, just in case. JIC supplies could save lots of lives.
Tailpin read the PMs as they came. He kept up with Delcastle as he read but said nothing for a little while. This wasn't just another player he was dealing with now. It was his boss. Decorum mattered and the boss's time was always in high demand. It wouldn't do to waste it with chit-chat when there might be something valuable to say instead.
The conversation began with World Walkers' objectives and business model then moved into planned routes and marketing. It seemed well thought out. It also looked like the Guild might be likely to grow quickly once their value to the trapped community became more widely established. They moved quickly from one topic to another. Each was covered clearly but in no greater detail than necessary. Then the topic became combat formations and, Tailpin supposed, job title. It would seem that his job would be primarily acting as a forward scout for the guild with Delcastle himself, covering lots of ground and mapping it for the hunters who would follow after a good route was established. The bulk of the conversation wound to a close with a caution regarding the variables of combat and the name of his immediate superior, Cinera.
A feminine name and female pronouns with swordsman stated in the singular, that last raised an eyebrow for a second or two. For a guild in Sword Art Online to form with only one person actually using a sword was definitely a little unusual. Also, if she was involved in the rapid response portion of the formation then she was probably speed focused as well. They didn't have a true heavy sword. Still, that didn't mean that much at this level. They could start having trouble with armored monsters later though. Fast attacks had to be able to either damage or cripple in order to kite effectively. This archer would need to spend some time with his 'immediate supervisor' sooner rather than later, ideally in combat. With high speed battle, instinct was better than planning. Plans couldn't keep up the pace. He had to know that she trusted him and knew how he fought and he had to trust and know the same about her. Still, time would teach all of that.
The caution had more value to Tailpin as a mark of how much Delcastle valued his people. As this was as real as death could make a world become, it was critical to understand whether or not the boss thought of his people as expendible. Clearly, he did not. Though, there was something in his manner that hinted to Tailpin that he had already tried to come to grips with the probability of losing at least a couple guildmates along the way. It could simply be unavoidable as the risks of doing business increased. Yet, Tailpin felt that such a tragedy would hit his new Guild Leader far too hard.
If that did happen, then he would have to cover Delcastle in combat in case grief caused moments of weakness or slips in timing. Those two things were almost guaranteed with a person grieving. Tailpin knew that much from personal experience gained long before this game began. They were part of healing and he would never hold them against someone. All he would do is try to make sure that they didn't get anyone killed.
The PMs didn't require too much thought. They could be referred to later if he lost track of a detail or forgot part of the plan. There were a couple things that did bear a little closer examination.
The list, for example, was both simple and deceptive. In the end, almost all items within a game are designed to either increase the character's ability to survive or their ability to defeat enemies. However, this list seemed to focus on the former. Also, it wasn't just the completed items that were listed but the components required for players to craft them as well. There were two such items that Tailpin had in abundance, though they were very low level. If nothing else, they might be able to help out those who never gained the courage to leave the Town of Beginnings. Still, it wasn't up to him to decide if they were valuable enough to make items from.
He had a boss now, and the business to consider. If Delcastle had the connections and the business sense to really carry World Walkers forward through floor after floor of danger and profit then he would be the best person to find a use for the items that Tailpin had been holding on to. He had amassed a large stockpile of two items, "Poisoned Flesh" and "Dirty Dog Hide". He actually had a little over 900 of the hide and about 450 of the flesh. If there was value there above what vendors offered then Delcastle should be able to find it. Though it might not be easy. Neither of these items actually seemed to drop from monsters. Both of these items were the products of his Refining skill. He had never seen either of them drop as is and he hadn't actually sold any yet. In fact, it seemed unlikely that even the Information Brokers would know about them.
Tailpin's musing was cut short when he received a freshly minted guildwide message. So, he wouldn't be going along the mapped forest route but would be preparing to head into that gorge to the east of town. He hadn't gone on that side of town in two weeks, not since he mapped the immediate perimeter with Reaper and Emperor. He knew that Reaper would be fine but he did have a little concern about Emperor. Speed focused combat was sudden death. You had to have the reactions for it, not just the stats. Still, he had his own path to walk. He would need to gather supplies before heading out that far.
Yet, it seemed that the keen eye of his Guild Leader had discerned a higher priority for this archer. Yep, the bow was level five, an issue that he was already familiar with. Tailpin was more pleased by the fact that Delcastle had a ready solution to that problem than he was likely to admit. This boss seemed to be on top of things. It was a good sign.
"Understood, I'll get it done." He said simply. But, he modified the trade before accepting his end, adding one of his Poisoned Flesh and a Dirty Dog Hide. "Maybe you can find a use for these. I've amassed a bit of a stockpile in the past two weeks."
With that done, Tailpin headed toward the market's eastern most area. He kept his eyes open not only for a glaive but also for a stall that carried items that would mark the shopkeeper as a woodsman. This Marco might not carry his weapon while running his business since a large shafted weapon would probably get in the way.
There were a few stalls that visibly carried drop items that looked to be from forest creatures in the area near the eastern gate. But, there was only one that showed crafted items based on those drops. In fact, the reason why Delcastle sent him to this man to make the alternate deal was clear immediately.
There was a set of crafted bows on display. One was a shortbow, probably speed focused but it also looked lower level than what he had already. One was a crossbow and looked to be a heavy one at that. There were a few others in the range between them but a bow that looked to be composite with a stave almost long enough to be a longbow caught his eye and held it for a long moment. That might well be close to his level. It would definitely be an upgrade.
That was the last thing Tailpin contemplated before noticing that he had been standing there, staring, for several minutes while the shopkeeper attempted to get his attention. Man, he was tired. At least the job itself was a simple one.
"Sorry about that. Are you Marco?" He asked.
"That's me." Marco replied affably enough, though he seemed a little intrigued.
"I'm here for World Walkers with a delivery of leather for you." Tailpin continued, "But, Delcastle said to change the promised payment to a bow."
"Hmm? You must be new to that guild, not that anybody could really be an old hand at this point." Marco pursed his lips for a moment while looking over the gear Tailpin was wearing. "I see, so he's moving you guys on from the forest then and wants you up to spec. Alright, I have a bow that should suit you. In fact, you've got a good eye." He reached up onto his display and took down the composit bow. "This is the one. It should do nicely for you. But, you should know that this bow is less expensive to me than the original deal. Delcastle just did you a favor."
Tailpin smiled thinly as he opened the trade window and set up his end. "I had a feeling that he was. I'll just have to make it worthwhile for him."
"You do that, he's good business." Marco said with a subtle note of warning as he finished his end of the trade. "Thank him for the prompt delivery, would you?"
"Will do. Thank you for your business." Tailpin finished with a good stage smile, bowed slightly, and walked away.
He waited until he was out of sight of the merchant to drop the smile, switch to his new bow, and test the draw. It was closer to his strength limit but he should still be able to draw and fire quickly enough. With the quality of the bow confirmed, he pulled up his menu and sent a PM to Delcastle.
@Zelosse
DELCASTLE, MISSION COMPLETE. BOW IS SUITABLE.
CLIENT SENDS HIS THANKS FOR PROMPT DELIVERY.
GOING TO GATHER SUPPLIES FOR UPCOMING HUNT
PM IF ANY OTHER MISSIONS.
Tailpin headed to the area of the market with the greatest potion selection, yawning all the way. He still had a lot of extra coin by this market's standard. He actually had an idle thought about donating a chunk to the guild purse but decided against it. It would be of more benefit to the guild if he simply equipped himself with some extras for other party members, just in case. JIC supplies could save lots of lives.
In
The Elder Scrolls: Fruits of Contention - Chapter 1 (Completed)
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11 yrs ago
Forum: Advanced Roleplay
<Snipped quote by Haeo>
They have weaknesses, you'll see.
I hope so, otherwise we all be ded pepple.
In
The Elder Scrolls: Fruits of Contention - Chapter 1 (Completed)
→
11 yrs ago
Forum: Advanced Roleplay
@gcold, Head to toe hull armor and built like trolls with standard smarts and no skin showing. Oye. I think that either Utu is going to run out of arrows and poison or he might not do much unless he can get one of them into the water.
In
The Elder Scrolls: Fruits of Contention - Chapter 1 (Completed)
→
11 yrs ago
Forum: Advanced Roleplay
NOT A COLLAB
The night had been a long one. Finding replacements for the arrows he used up at Rorikstead wasn't hard. But, making the healing potions proved far harder. Still, after half the night was gone, Utu-ja finally found an apothacary with the equipment he needed and the disposition to let the warped argonian use it, even at night. Though the man went back to bed immediately and wouldn't consider helping to improve the quality when Utu asked. The brewing itself wasn't complicated though the final product was a little weaker than normal store quality. It should still pack a wollop though. So long as it kept some people breathing who wouldn't otherwise then that was good enough. The whole ordeal had taken all night though. The sun was already rising when he stepped back outside to head back. He meant to find Edith and give her the potions to distribute as needed. That plan didn't work out.
It was when he was heading back toward the Candlehearth that he heard the alarm. Ships attacking from the sea? Dough-boy was working hard getting the word out but he wouldn't have more details or time to chat. Utu didn't stop him as he sped past. He cursed under his breath and started to run instead, as fast as he could and with no thought to dignity or anything else with the one exception being the rattling of a dozen potions in his pack. His fingertips brushed the cobbles and his tail extended out behind him as he bolted for the inn and his room.
Flashing through the door like a newlywed soldier on his first weekend's leave, he was little but a shadowy blur and a rapid set of soft footsteps as his tail disappeared upstairs. His room hadn't been disturbed yet and he rushed to grab his gear. His other pouch and his elven bow, his full quiver of steel arrows, and a hearty curse for whatever daedra was spitting on Ashav enough to call this kind of trouble. For not being an educated individual, Utu knew exactly what parts of which animals most resembled the targets of his curses by looks, odor, texture and likely function. He also knew that the delay in his return would not make him look great to the boss. He was still running full tilt when he managed to meet up with the rest of the company.
Instead of moving directly to his place with the rest of the company, Utu first spotted Edith and Daelin. The two of them were exactly who he needed to see. This was no time for bonuses but it was the perfect time for a lucky windfall of valuable supplies. He ran up to them, shouldered his bow, and quickly held out six healing potions toward each of them, thanking the gods for the long fingers that let him hold so much in each hand. He intended to simply drop them off and then rush to a more suitable place for him, preferably one that was out of the way with a good view and clear lines of fire. Then he looked out to sea and saw the ships.
He froze from his fingertips to the tip of his tail, though just for an instant. Armored ships meant heavily armored warriors. He would need to use that poison for his own arrows instead of spreading it around. His eyes snapped back to Edith and Daelin and he spoke quickly and quietly. They didn't need the whole story now. They could ask for that later, if everyone involved survived the battle that was coming.
"Healing potions, almost store strength. Couldn't get the alchemist to make them so I did it." Then, his message delivered along with the packages, his head snapped to look at Ashav. He looked like he had no plan or briefing to give. That left Utu with one question to ask though he pitched his voice so that most of the company wouldn't hear him. "Ashav." He raised his bow an inch or two as he pulled out one of the Frostbite Venom vials . "Bows to heights, or on the ground?"@gcold@Leidenschaft
The night had been a long one. Finding replacements for the arrows he used up at Rorikstead wasn't hard. But, making the healing potions proved far harder. Still, after half the night was gone, Utu-ja finally found an apothacary with the equipment he needed and the disposition to let the warped argonian use it, even at night. Though the man went back to bed immediately and wouldn't consider helping to improve the quality when Utu asked. The brewing itself wasn't complicated though the final product was a little weaker than normal store quality. It should still pack a wollop though. So long as it kept some people breathing who wouldn't otherwise then that was good enough. The whole ordeal had taken all night though. The sun was already rising when he stepped back outside to head back. He meant to find Edith and give her the potions to distribute as needed. That plan didn't work out.
It was when he was heading back toward the Candlehearth that he heard the alarm. Ships attacking from the sea? Dough-boy was working hard getting the word out but he wouldn't have more details or time to chat. Utu didn't stop him as he sped past. He cursed under his breath and started to run instead, as fast as he could and with no thought to dignity or anything else with the one exception being the rattling of a dozen potions in his pack. His fingertips brushed the cobbles and his tail extended out behind him as he bolted for the inn and his room.
Flashing through the door like a newlywed soldier on his first weekend's leave, he was little but a shadowy blur and a rapid set of soft footsteps as his tail disappeared upstairs. His room hadn't been disturbed yet and he rushed to grab his gear. His other pouch and his elven bow, his full quiver of steel arrows, and a hearty curse for whatever daedra was spitting on Ashav enough to call this kind of trouble. For not being an educated individual, Utu knew exactly what parts of which animals most resembled the targets of his curses by looks, odor, texture and likely function. He also knew that the delay in his return would not make him look great to the boss. He was still running full tilt when he managed to meet up with the rest of the company.
Instead of moving directly to his place with the rest of the company, Utu first spotted Edith and Daelin. The two of them were exactly who he needed to see. This was no time for bonuses but it was the perfect time for a lucky windfall of valuable supplies. He ran up to them, shouldered his bow, and quickly held out six healing potions toward each of them, thanking the gods for the long fingers that let him hold so much in each hand. He intended to simply drop them off and then rush to a more suitable place for him, preferably one that was out of the way with a good view and clear lines of fire. Then he looked out to sea and saw the ships.
He froze from his fingertips to the tip of his tail, though just for an instant. Armored ships meant heavily armored warriors. He would need to use that poison for his own arrows instead of spreading it around. His eyes snapped back to Edith and Daelin and he spoke quickly and quietly. They didn't need the whole story now. They could ask for that later, if everyone involved survived the battle that was coming.
"Healing potions, almost store strength. Couldn't get the alchemist to make them so I did it." Then, his message delivered along with the packages, his head snapped to look at Ashav. He looked like he had no plan or briefing to give. That left Utu with one question to ask though he pitched his voice so that most of the company wouldn't hear him. "Ashav." He raised his bow an inch or two as he pulled out one of the Frostbite Venom vials . "Bows to heights, or on the ground?"@gcold@Leidenschaft
Day 16 Mid-day
So, in the end there really wasn't much to be said at all. Tailpin had finally lucked out. This businessman was exactly the type of person that he had been hoping for. He even knew how to get down to business. Though, his philanthropic traits would be something to watch. That kind of thing could be used against him later. Still, for now there was no reason to hesitate. His expedition today had been completely successful.
Tailpin accepted the gift of gear, the friend request and the guild invitation with the same level of hesitation that he demonstrated with a loot window. He had made his decision while Delcastle was still talking. There was no reason to worry at this point. It was time to see more of who he signed on with. He followed, pulling up his inventory and swapping gear as he went. He knew that the respawns would take too long for their path to be obstructed for a little while so specific vigilance seemed excessive. Besides, it only took a couple moments to swap the gear. It was strange. Now he was wearing armor far closer to his actual level. It was level nine. The next problem was that he didn't know anyone who had developed Bow Crafting. The level five bow that he had was probably the best he could expect on this floor outside of the dungeon. If he wanted better then he would need to either craft it himself or find someone who could. Either possibility became more likely with a competent crew.
So Tailpin became a member of World Walkers. It was a suitable name. They would be walking a lot. He was getting tired though. He was no longer used to being awake during the day. It was a good time to head back to town. That was going to be one drawback of working with other people again. They would probably want to operate during the day. He let out a slow breath. There were prices to pay for everything.
"Looking to move on to where?" He spoke up without preamble. "We have a target in mind yet?"
So, in the end there really wasn't much to be said at all. Tailpin had finally lucked out. This businessman was exactly the type of person that he had been hoping for. He even knew how to get down to business. Though, his philanthropic traits would be something to watch. That kind of thing could be used against him later. Still, for now there was no reason to hesitate. His expedition today had been completely successful.
Tailpin accepted the gift of gear, the friend request and the guild invitation with the same level of hesitation that he demonstrated with a loot window. He had made his decision while Delcastle was still talking. There was no reason to worry at this point. It was time to see more of who he signed on with. He followed, pulling up his inventory and swapping gear as he went. He knew that the respawns would take too long for their path to be obstructed for a little while so specific vigilance seemed excessive. Besides, it only took a couple moments to swap the gear. It was strange. Now he was wearing armor far closer to his actual level. It was level nine. The next problem was that he didn't know anyone who had developed Bow Crafting. The level five bow that he had was probably the best he could expect on this floor outside of the dungeon. If he wanted better then he would need to either craft it himself or find someone who could. Either possibility became more likely with a competent crew.
So Tailpin became a member of World Walkers. It was a suitable name. They would be walking a lot. He was getting tired though. He was no longer used to being awake during the day. It was a good time to head back to town. That was going to be one drawback of working with other people again. They would probably want to operate during the day. He let out a slow breath. There were prices to pay for everything.
"Looking to move on to where?" He spoke up without preamble. "We have a target in mind yet?"
Day 16 Mid-day
Tailpin was not disappointed. Speed focused and smart with a solid grasp of enemy behavior and the ability to turn the AI's behaviors against it... Good. The observer stopped in front of him, well within the safe distance. If this situation had been likely to turn hostile then the archer would have put multiple arrows through the man before he had gotten this close. Thankfully, that wasn't coming to pass. The thirty year old archer stood quietly as the man demonstrated one of the great fallacies of game design, the discrepancy between physical appearance and physical ability. This guy could run just as fast as he did. The gap between their power was too small to tell without actually trading character sheets.
They looked to be on a similar level when it came to ability within their specialties. It was unlikely that he'd trained his mapping skill or night vision anywhere near as diligently as Tailpin had. But, looking at this man's capability and demeanor, Tailpin still had the feeling that he had come from behind to match someone with far longer experience. It was likely that the archer was actually less advanced in everything but his specialties, and possibly his bankroll. The other man's quip was a sign of a quick mind but his strategy for clearing a path through the monsters had already made that trait obvious. Tailpin didn't hesitate to answer. He had been expecting something of the humorous kind after such a display.
"You just did, but that hardly matters. I'm more interested in who it is that has found me so interesting lately, and why." Tailpin was calm and wore a small smile of courtesy and caution. "Curiosity doesn't often spawn its own rumors in places like this."
Tailpin was not disappointed. Speed focused and smart with a solid grasp of enemy behavior and the ability to turn the AI's behaviors against it... Good. The observer stopped in front of him, well within the safe distance. If this situation had been likely to turn hostile then the archer would have put multiple arrows through the man before he had gotten this close. Thankfully, that wasn't coming to pass. The thirty year old archer stood quietly as the man demonstrated one of the great fallacies of game design, the discrepancy between physical appearance and physical ability. This guy could run just as fast as he did. The gap between their power was too small to tell without actually trading character sheets.
They looked to be on a similar level when it came to ability within their specialties. It was unlikely that he'd trained his mapping skill or night vision anywhere near as diligently as Tailpin had. But, looking at this man's capability and demeanor, Tailpin still had the feeling that he had come from behind to match someone with far longer experience. It was likely that the archer was actually less advanced in everything but his specialties, and possibly his bankroll. The other man's quip was a sign of a quick mind but his strategy for clearing a path through the monsters had already made that trait obvious. Tailpin didn't hesitate to answer. He had been expecting something of the humorous kind after such a display.
"You just did, but that hardly matters. I'm more interested in who it is that has found me so interesting lately, and why." Tailpin was calm and wore a small smile of courtesy and caution. "Curiosity doesn't often spawn its own rumors in places like this."
@Zelosse Day 16 Midday
Tailpin was well on his way. His assessment was correct and the monsters fell quickly, most with a single arrow. He took a moment to review his mapping data and survey the mobs in his path from the top of a hill. There were only a few mobs and the mapping data showed no surprises. He should be able to set up at the edge of the forest fairly quickly.
He drew back a lvl 4 arrow and proceeded to eliminate the mobs in his path. The strongest of them were the boars and only the strongest boars required a second shot. Nothing else had the hitpoints. Six arrows later he had a clear path forward to his next vantage point and at least five minutes before the fastest respawn in the area would trigger. He dealt with the loot windows dismissively. His eyes didn't move from the field in front of him. They didn't need to. He knew where the accept key was without looking after having dealt with so many mobs over the past weeks.
Then, he ran. It wasn't the panicked run of someone in flight nor a charge into battle. It was a very swift traveling run with long strides, taken quickly. His bow was in his hand with an arrow gripped tight against the bow, ready to draw and fire in an instant if the unexpected happened. The distance between the hill and his next point was at least a couple hundred meters but he crossed it easily and stood again on a high point, though lower than the other.
Here he stopped and scanned everything within his vision in all directions. He took note of the monsters between him and his next goal. He took note of the terrain. He took note of the remaining distance he had to cover to reach the forest. He also took note of the player standing still and staring at him from some distance away.
That may well be the persistent inquirer who the rumors had spoken of. Still, if the man wanted to make contact, he'd have to cross the distance between them and the monsters that populated it. Even if he was strong, it would probably take him ten minutes or so to cross that much ground if his physical build was any guide. Add to that the time needed to slaughter the monsters and it could be as much as a half-hour before the man got to him. That is, if he even started trying.
It was while he was staring back at his observer that Tailpin noticed movement in a patch of tall grass behind the man. It was a monster that had wandered farther than usual from its normal range. It was only level three, there wasn't anything in these open fields that was a threat at that level, at least not to him. Tailpin didn't know who the other player was, however, and didn't want to take unnecessary chances.
He turned to align his body with the observer's position, raised his bow and drew back his readied arrow. This time it wasn't a regular shot. He activated one of his recently acquired Attack Skills, Longshot, and the arrow suddenly glimmered brightly with emerald green light. For an instant the arrow cast a prediction line that marked the other player's face. He loosed the shot. The arrow was fast, twice as fast as its normal speed. A line of emerald defined the distance between them on a trajectory only slightly bent by gravity and wind.
The arrow passed the observer's ear and pierced the tall grass half a dozen meters behind him. The line of emerald green that traced the arrow's path was only a few inches distant from the player's head. The sound of a monster shattering broke the silence and sapphire shards drifted toward the sky from the tall grass.
Tailpin accepted the loot from the kill as he lowered his bow. Then he waited. It was time to see exactly what this person wanted and, perhaps, how good they were.
Tailpin was well on his way. His assessment was correct and the monsters fell quickly, most with a single arrow. He took a moment to review his mapping data and survey the mobs in his path from the top of a hill. There were only a few mobs and the mapping data showed no surprises. He should be able to set up at the edge of the forest fairly quickly.
He drew back a lvl 4 arrow and proceeded to eliminate the mobs in his path. The strongest of them were the boars and only the strongest boars required a second shot. Nothing else had the hitpoints. Six arrows later he had a clear path forward to his next vantage point and at least five minutes before the fastest respawn in the area would trigger. He dealt with the loot windows dismissively. His eyes didn't move from the field in front of him. They didn't need to. He knew where the accept key was without looking after having dealt with so many mobs over the past weeks.
Then, he ran. It wasn't the panicked run of someone in flight nor a charge into battle. It was a very swift traveling run with long strides, taken quickly. His bow was in his hand with an arrow gripped tight against the bow, ready to draw and fire in an instant if the unexpected happened. The distance between the hill and his next point was at least a couple hundred meters but he crossed it easily and stood again on a high point, though lower than the other.
Here he stopped and scanned everything within his vision in all directions. He took note of the monsters between him and his next goal. He took note of the terrain. He took note of the remaining distance he had to cover to reach the forest. He also took note of the player standing still and staring at him from some distance away.
That may well be the persistent inquirer who the rumors had spoken of. Still, if the man wanted to make contact, he'd have to cross the distance between them and the monsters that populated it. Even if he was strong, it would probably take him ten minutes or so to cross that much ground if his physical build was any guide. Add to that the time needed to slaughter the monsters and it could be as much as a half-hour before the man got to him. That is, if he even started trying.
It was while he was staring back at his observer that Tailpin noticed movement in a patch of tall grass behind the man. It was a monster that had wandered farther than usual from its normal range. It was only level three, there wasn't anything in these open fields that was a threat at that level, at least not to him. Tailpin didn't know who the other player was, however, and didn't want to take unnecessary chances.
He turned to align his body with the observer's position, raised his bow and drew back his readied arrow. This time it wasn't a regular shot. He activated one of his recently acquired Attack Skills, Longshot, and the arrow suddenly glimmered brightly with emerald green light. For an instant the arrow cast a prediction line that marked the other player's face. He loosed the shot. The arrow was fast, twice as fast as its normal speed. A line of emerald defined the distance between them on a trajectory only slightly bent by gravity and wind.
The arrow passed the observer's ear and pierced the tall grass half a dozen meters behind him. The line of emerald green that traced the arrow's path was only a few inches distant from the player's head. The sound of a monster shattering broke the silence and sapphire shards drifted toward the sky from the tall grass.
Tailpin accepted the loot from the kill as he lowered his bow. Then he waited. It was time to see exactly what this person wanted and, perhaps, how good they were.
@Zelosse, it could be worse. I could have snapped a tendon or something. Though, that would really say bad things about the instructor if that happened. It actually went very well. My body just has a lot of core strengthening to do.
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