Challenge Western Brisshal [DM Challenge] The Labyrinth

[Shadow Wolf]

The Labyrinth​

Within the depths of the forests of Brisshal, a small group of adventurers finds themselves confronting the entrance of…something which seems to head deep into the underground. The exterior, pristine and well-maintained compared to the brush around it, would for some give off concerning vibes - but for the brave Starcalled, it's nothing more than a day trip into the unknown. Whether through folly, misinformation, or true lack of concern for their safety, they agree to enter the tunnels, throwing caution to the wind as they assume nothing more of the ominous entryway.

As darkness surrounds them, the whisper of wind, the soft grinding of stone, and the sudden diminishment of light catches their attention. Looking back, they find the entryway they had just used...gone. Sealed over, as if it never existed - a solid, stone wall in its place.

There is but one way to take, the pathway forward leading deeper into the depths. A pathway, which before they know it, leads the group to a fork in the road, numerous paths leading in each different direction - each as promising as the next. As they consider their predicament, they are left with but one realisation - their only way out, is to continue forward, to find an escape further in - and perhaps something more?

For now, they find themselves facing a single choice - which of the four paths ahead will they take; the far left tunnel that appears dark, gloomy and...is that the sound of running water? The central-left option, which houses a soft purple glow and seems to smell of lilacs? Perhaps the central-right option, which seems to draw in a breeze, but angles its floor sharply downwards. Or, maybe, they'll choose the far-right option, which leads upwards sharply, but seems to only get darker the further along it goes...

Cycle 0; The Fork

Exploration

Use Knack to guide the group forward, reading the stonework around you, the feel of the air, or some other symbolism that urges you in a specific direction.

Use Knowledge to determine the best route through finding commonly known, or not-so-commonly known, details about the options before you.

Investigation

Use Awareness to notice small details in the air around you that may lead you towards the true path, or that may keep you away from far more dangerous ones.

Freeform

Should players choose to forgo the above actions, they can always freeform - who's to say you need to explore anything, or investigate anything? You're here on an adventure, and what's an adventure without randomly blundering forward in the hopes of finding something of interest...or perhaps a mistake or two!

Cycle 0 Rules

• No minimum/max word limits for posting. Muse is fickle, and we all know it comes and goes.
• You may post numerous times during this cycle, however standard TerraSphere rules apply (no double posting).
• Play Sheets are not required at this time, however you can prepare one which can be adjusted later in the challenge if required/desired. A cycle note will be placed if a set sheet is required.
• Cycle updates will occur no later than forty-eight (48) hours from initial cycle posts. If you're unable to make that time frame, shoot @Shadow Wolf a message on Discord. I'm understanding, and it won't be a huge deal once in a while!
• A Communications Thread is available for any lengthy communication that players feel is required beyond their post. Feel free to use this for general chatting, planning, or other topics as you desire!
• Homebrew Content: At this time only Homebrew Content from Shadow Wolf's Lair will be included for playtesting reasons.
• @Ronja Bubblyfoot, @Valmont, @Fiora Di Angelo, @Rael, @Zelrius, and @Aalam Abungu...welcome to the Labyrinth!

Spoiler: Energy Bar

As this system uses the Homebrew content, the Energy Measurement System is in place.

This can be monitored in any way the player desires (a commentary at the bottom/top of the post, fancy BBCode bars, etc.).

Each player starts with a base 100 EN, and gains +10 per Armour rank. I've taken the liberty to outline the EN for each player below, to give an example and hopefully make this easier on everyone, based on their ranks at time of sign-up! If there are changes to your armour rating, please feel free to update accordingly!

Ronja Bubblyfoot: 150 EN (A Rank Armour)
Valmont: 120 EN (D Rank Armour)
Fiora Di Angelo: 140 EN (B Rank Armour)
Rael: 130 EN (C Rank Armour)
Zelrius: 140 EN (B Rank Armour)
Aalam Abungu: 140 EN (B Rank Armour)

 

[Ronja Bubblyfoot]

160 / 160

 145 / 150

-5 EN for Mastery Check

As per usual, Ronja had her arm hooking around Fiora's, with the long magitech rifle named Skullbuster hanging by her back, tingling to be used at the sight of the nearest threat that decided to advance toward them. So far, however, it seemed that the whole trip had been quite peaceful if you could handle the eerie and dark ambiance it brought to 'welcome' the group.

Soon they found themselves in a dilemma, but the question would be if that dilemma was one they would have no clue, or if they could snatch any hint of what to do.

Letting go of @Fiora Di Angelo's arms, she smiled at the woman. "Ronja will check if she can find anything useful for us to decide what's the best place to go." She said, clasping her hands together and having her eyes brimming before four small propelling constructs slipped from her backpack.

❰ Summon: Aidlings! ❱

"Aidlings! Seek for clues, we will need as much data as possible to make the most optimal decision!" She said, with her camera eyes flickering and connecting with the smaller constructs, turning them into an extension of her own sight.

The four Aidlings flew straight into the four tunnels each, while Ronja hoped they would come back in one piece. Meanwhile, she cast a glance at @Valmont, smiling at him. "Ronja hopes she can count on a fellow sniper to give her a cover when she needs-- Because she will certainly do the same!"

Rolls

Expertise Check - Exploration
1d100 (96) + 50 = 146
Knowledge | Ronja Bubblyfoot | 1448C0

Play Sheet

 

[Fiora Di Angelo]

190 / 190

 135 / 140

-5 EN for Mastery Check

Her sword arm remained steady. Tense, unlike the left, preoccupied with keeping up with old habits. Despite @Ronja Bubblyfoot having no need to cling like that no more, it became less of a necessity given enough time, and the gesture's meaning had completely changed. For the better, if she would dare to say.

Of course she doesn't, she's was happy with this silent trip. At least until the magia stopped and she was forced to let go for the time being. A switch for the elf to get down to business and focus in more than just themselves and their safety.

"This place shifts at will apparently. No guarantees the aidlings will come back. Be swift." She nodded, reaching out to sheathe her sword once again and give a quick look across each path. Besides what the naked eye can see, no matter how hard she tries to gaze into the distance or past the veils of darkness, not even hyper sense itself could pierce through it.

Where were they exactly at this point? It almost reminds her of a certain book about a wardrobe, and a group of siblings and they were close to the exact number that the fictional party were.

"What do you think?" She turned on her heels to face @Aalam Abungu , pulling down from the tattered hood attached to her cloak, now billowing gently much like her hairs did with the soft breeze coming from one of the possible paths. "You probably can tell better than I. Every single path seems just as deadly." Fiora added. Yet that's just an assumption from her side. The man always carried himself like a lander whose been born to these lands, despite being a Starcalled like the rest. It spoke enough of what he might have done in the past. To an experienced adventurer like him, this had to be an average day.

"The one that leads straight down though... I don't like it. If we have to retreat, there will be no way to do so."

---

Expertise Check
1d100 (12) + 10 = 22

Awareness | Fiora Di Angelo | 1448C0

@Ronja Bubblyfoot @Aalam Abungu @Valmont @Rael @Zelrius

 

[Aalam Abungu]

160 / 160

[ 135/140 ]

Pulling his cloak tight around him as he looked at the path in front of him, it seemed that he was back in his element somewhere he was meant to be, risking it all to find out some information and to get things done. It kept him from drinking, which was always a good thing, checking to ensure he had his spare quiver in missions like this; things tended to need killing quickly. Dragging his fingers over the wall as he let someone else take the lead, he went to the front, well, not anymore after his last death. There were too many eyes on his back from that position. It was always better to be the one watching the rest. Taking a second to form his arm before running a finger over the bottom of both paths, he was looking for something. There should be something in the ground to see, be it tracks or debris. It would help him to see which path was safer.

He watched the little machines head down each of the tunnels, and with some luck, they would be able to find something that he couldn't pick up from the entrances of each of the paths. "We should log the path that we take, either with markings on the wall or if someone can keep track of it in a journal; this game has a way of confusing the memory when it wants you to get lost." Pulling his bow off his shoulder as he took a second and waited for the bots to come back; after all, more information was always good.

"I am not sure I have not mapped these cave systems before, and as far as I can tell, they have been well explored before this job came along. I can only suggest we pick a path and stick to it no matter which way we go." @Fiora Di Angelo

 

[Valmont]

120 / 120

110 / 120

Once again he found himself doing something crazy. Or he found others doing something crazy, and was determined to make sure everyone made it back in one piece. For now he followed along with the others, somewhere near the middle of the group. A brass-lined octahedron made of walnut, held an orbit around his shoulder. It split in half along the horizontal axis, the two halves separating to reveal the inner mechanism, and to spill forth a soft blue light, about as bright as a torch.

In his left hand Valmont spun his ever-present faceted, blue, hexagonal coin across his knuckles, stopping when someone spoke directly to him. Another Magia, Ronja, he assumed her name was. A familiar face. ”Eh?” He asked. ”Sorry, I’m more of a supporting factor than I am a crack-shot. But I’ll do what I can.” Saying that, his octahedron floated overhead, all eight panels separated to emit a brighter light to increase the visibility for some of his allies. In particular @Rael, @Zelrius, and @Ronja Bubblyfoot.

At the same time he pulled his coat tighter around him, using the flashy lights and folds of thick blue material to hide the sidearm at his hip. He wasn’t sure how or when the magia had managed to see it, but the thought of the others thinking of him as an active combatant on their level unsettled him. He’d seen what some of the more experienced players could do at Camp Hope, and he worried every day of ending up in a situation that required so much firepower again.

”Let’s just try not to get separated, yeah? I don’t relish the thought of going over this place with a fine tooth comb looking for someone.”
​

Buff

1d100 (17) + 25 + 10 + 5 = 19 (Total divided by 3)
”+19 buff to 3 targets for 1 post”
Magitech | Valmont | 1448C0
Rael, Zelrius & Ronja
​

 

[Rael]

.

140 / 140

+19DMG from Valmont's Buff [ 1 Action/Post Remaining]

Unlike the only other new player amongst their crew, Rael wasn't as nervous for the presence of high-end players, but relieved. It lightened the burden that would be placed upon the two, leaving her with ample time to record the events that would undoubtedly unfold no sooner did they choose a path to follow. She still placed a hand on his forearm, fingers tapping against the fabric as a reminder that all would be well.

For the brief time that her field of vision was illuminated by the light that Valmont's constructs brought forth, she looked to her companions. Passing glances were distributed amongst the members of the group, lingering on those whom she shared a vague sense of familiarity with from a brief exchange born of the aftermath of Camp Hope's siege. Those whom she had shared more intimate moments with, namely Valmont and Zelrius, she offered the smallest wave of her hand coupled with the slightest hint of a smile.

She froze in the middle of the movement as she greeted the red-haired knight, suddenly all too aware of the particular circumstances of their meeting and conscious of what it could potentially mean. Rael turned to rectify herself before the gesture would become too noticeable, greeting the stranger, Aalam, in the same manner as the other two.

"[ What were the rules for the exploration of mazes..? Stick your hand to the right wall and follow it all the way if outdoors? Oh, was it indoors... ]" Magical scripture pierced the darkness with its light as the storyteller put her thoughts together for the group, looking for confirmation from those who were intent on showing the rest what path to follow.

"[ Shall we hold hands so as to not get separated? I've read such things help to build trust. ]"

---

@Valmont @Zelrius @Aalam Abungu​

Action Taken: N/A.
Playsheet Link

 

[Zelrius]

160 / 160

140/140
The cold draft was unpleasant, to say the least. Zelrius shivered, pulling his black gloves tight under his coat, and leaning back to do a few of the buttons up so that it shielded his chest. This was the part of console-video games that the adventurers never told you about. These annoying little finer details of places like creepy dungeons, or towering mountain tops, or the depths of hell. It was almost always an uncomfortable, ever changing temperature.

The cottoncandy colored @Ronja Bubblyfoot was swift to take the lead as the group approached the destination. Calling out instructions right away, the pyromancer unsure on how to feel about being called aidling. Or, if the one talking was Ronja, and she was referring to herself in 3rd person. Or someone else here? Blue eyes looked around the room. @Fiora Di Angelo , with her changed avatar appearance now for the third time. Chick really needed to land on a specific look. @Valmont the studious, polite man from the dark Parlor, someone he'd be glad to have an adventure with. And two he didn't know. The cloaked seemingly fighter, whom he knew not the name of, but felt like he certainly should. And the pink haired elf, her voice and demeanor giving this odd rush of Deja Vu that now clouded Zelrius's mind. Her offer for the team to hold hands was met only with a shake of his head, and raising of his open palm in rejection.

"No, that's okay. I think flexibility might be important here." Immediately rushing forward to heed the words of their current guide, and assit Fiora in searching out whatever it was they were supposed to be looking for. Wanting to see if he could join in on the information sharing the cloaked adventurer and Fiora were sharing, hoping to identify more. The darkness made it extremely difficult to see much at all.

Rolls

Expertise Check
1d100 (28) + 0 = 28
Awareness | Zelrius | 1448C1

 

[Shadow Wolf]

The Labyrinth​

Struck with the sudden need to make a decision on their direction, the party begins heading towards what they know - searching for signs, anything that will clue them in towards where they need to go, in order to find eventual freedom...and perhaps some interesting finds.

Each of them had their skills, their abilities, their talents. Something that they brought to the group, to the adventure. It was how people like this survived, how they thrived. And as they found themselves facing a indecisive way forwards, those skills began to appear, manifesting as if from thin air.

As the small Magia girl began her processes, calling forth small creatures of a robotic nature designed to assist her see in crevices she'd never otherwise find, @Ronja Bubblyfoot noticed something that struck a memory. Her nanobots skirted away from the pathway echoing the sounds of running water, realising the danger that such an environment might present to them. As they collected data, considering, they realised that the pathways with the soft glow and lilac scents, and the breeze that seemed to blow towards them carried scents of the outer world - a possible way outwards?

While the Magia appeared lost in her world of miniatures, the battle sister and ranger both took time to review their surroundings, @Fiora Di Angelo and @Aalam Abungu careful not to stride across one another's paths in their search for anything that would guide them forwards. What their eyes saw, and their touches revealed carried them to an interesting discovery; the breeze from the central-right pathway came in a single direction - towards them, as if being pushed deeper into the tunnels. Running his hands along the surface, the ranger was able to find one further detail, something that his travels had confirmed for him time and again...the left most tunnel showed signs of recent water upon it; drops still dripping from the ceiling as if it had recently been filled...

The light that @Valmont provided only made things clearer for each of the searchers, bringing one thing into clarity as they glanced towards it - wherever the path that seemed to incline went, it went at a sharp angle - sharp enough that it would require scaling, rather than simply walking. A task that the adventurers would find taxing, although perhaps freeing...

The group worked as a whole, albeit individually in their tasks, with even @Rael and @Vesuvyan adding their own interjections and insights to the mixture. Although each brought their own insights, their own interjections, each seemed certain of one thing - each pathway forward could be a way out, but all were a risk.

As they considered their options, trying to figure out the best pathway forward, a voice spoke from the shadows - disconnected, soft, a mere whisper as if nothing more than the wind playing tricks.

Fear not the passing of water, for the breath of life comes with each drop that is drunk. And yet...should not the breath of air lead one astray in their travels? Perhaps one should trust more the essence of life, the scent of survival...know only this; when a path leads obvious, it is naught more than a mirage...

As the voice fades away and the group is left in silence once more, they realise they must choose. Which path? Which path leads them to safety? Which path leads to danger? But more importantly...what horrors in the dark must they face, before escaping?

Cycle 1; The Fork

Water Way

Water must come and go from somewhere, one would think. Choosing this pathway would lead the adventurers into a tunnel system that is currently dry...but with running water audible in the distance, how long will it remain so - and more importantly, how high will that water sit?

Of Lilacs

A soft purple glow, which specifies that light must be ahead. The mention and notice of a scent that seems to be flowers, lilacs to be specific. Perhaps this pathway leads to somewhere with an exterior. Lilacs need sunlight, don't they?

The Breeze

Air comes from somewhere, usually a place that comes from the world beyond. It's not common to find such breezes within the depths of the world below, and yet...wouldn't it draw away, rather than push inwards, if it was leading out?

Scaling to the Sky

Every adventurer loves a good climb, whether it be the top of a tree to see beyond, to the top of a peak to look down upon the world around them, or perhaps simply to the top of that hill to find chest buried in the dirt. But do you really want to try climbing the wall in the depths of a underground tunnel?

Cycle 1 Rules

• No minimum/max word limits for posting. Muse is fickle, and we all know it comes and goes.
• You may post numerous times during this cycle, however standard TerraSphere rules apply (no double posting).
• Play Sheets are not required at this time, however you can prepare one which can be adjusted later in the challenge if required/desired. A cycle note will be placed if a set sheet is required.
• Cycle updates will occur no later than forty-eight (48) hours from initial cycle posts. If you're unable to make that time frame, shoot @Shadow Wolf a message on Discord. I'm understanding, and it won't be a huge deal once in a while!
• A Communications Thread is available for any lengthy communication that players feel is required beyond their post. Feel free to use this for general chatting, planning, or other topics as you desire!
• Homebrew Content: At this time only Homebrew Content from Shadow Wolf's Lair will be included for playtesting reasons.
• @Ronja Bubblyfoot, @Valmont, @Fiora Di Angelo, @Rael, @Zelrius, and @Aalam Abungu...welcome to the Labyrinth!

Spoiler: Energy Bar

As this system uses the Homebrew content, the Energy Measurement System is in place.

This can be monitored in any way the player desires (a commentary at the bottom/top of the post, fancy BBCode bars, etc.).

Each player starts with a base 100 EN, and gains +10 per Armour rank. I've taken the liberty to outline the EN for each player below, to give an example and hopefully make this easier on everyone, based on their ranks at time of sign-up! If there are changes to your armour rating, please feel free to update accordingly!

Ronja Bubblyfoot: 150 EN (A Rank Armour)
Valmont: 120 EN (D Rank Armour)
Fiora Di Angelo: 140 EN (B Rank Armour)
Rael: 130 EN (C Rank Armour)
Zelrius: 140 EN (B Rank Armour)
Aalam Abungu: 140 EN (B Rank Armour)

Example energy bar as requested by Harmonia, and kindly provided by Dez! Please note that the colour of the meter bar itself (where it says yellow, beside metercolor), can only be changed to certain colours at this time. Hex codes do not work, unless this has been updated.

[banner=#DA93A9][hp=140]140[/hp] [metercolor=0.97]yellow[/metercolor][metertext=#efc738][fa]fas fa-bolt need-icon [/fa] 125 / 130[/metertext] [status][B]-5 EN for Mastery Check[/B][/status][/banner]

 

[Ronja Bubblyfoot]

160 / 160

 145 / 150

-5 EN for Mastery Check

Continuing from Comms thread

Ronja crossed her arms, letting out a sigh as she glanced at Fiora questioning two of their allies. "Ronja isn't experient in this game, but she would say it happens often enough to be a problem." She admitted, turning to face the paths and tapping her feet impatiently, agitated after the words of the voice.

The fact they were being listened to and observed, and now the dilemma struck by the voice-- Honestly, she wished she would've just run to a trap blindly. At least she would try to fend it off in any way she could, but now that she knew the possibility, she couldn't risk it.

"... Ronja thinks we should try to check the water way." She said, turning to the others to listen to their opinion.

"The voice said something about the obvious being a mirage, so it is probably warning us that the lilacs are bad news." She said.

"Granted... Ronja isn't sure if we can just trust the voice. So we better stay ready regardless."

Rolls

Considering Water Way

Play Sheet

 

[Valmont]

120 / 120

110 / 120

Continued from Comms
He looked from @Rael to @Zelrius , to @Ronja Bubblyfoot and back before nodding resolutely. ”If that is so, then I will warn all of you. When you are with me, the lilac path will surely lead to our deaths. For it is a Siren's Call, and it should be avoided at all costs.” He hesitated, bringing his hand up to tap the knuckle of his index finger to his lips. ”Additionally, if you see me going down what you so much as think is a lilac path, please stop me. Even if you must harm me.” Apparently, nervousness made the man more talkative.

He moved towards the waterway path, his octahedron shifting to light the way but at a more normal level. He eyed @Fiora Di Angelo as he passed her, considering her words and comparing them against @Aalam Abungu's. ”If Fiora is right, and this place is known to shift and change, mapping and marking could be our downfall. It would lead to false assumptions of safety or pattern.” He placed a hand against the wall of the water way cave, running it up and down its height to try and find some hint of a water line. ”Otherwise I am torn between two paths. The Water Way might be easiest to handle for a mostly known threat. A well placed bulwark could handle rising flows until it succumbs to pressure, but that could give us a chance to backtrack, or escape. That which lives in the water might not do well outside, and should therefore be equally as simple to manage.” He gave an apologetic shrug to Zelrius before he moved away from the wall, and lifted the glowing octahedron to another cave. ”The climb, while straightforward, is problematic. We don’t know how high it goes, so supporting us with Arcanamancy could get costly. Additionally, if anything wants to give us trouble on the way up, there is very little security for footing. But, at least as far as being stuck underground goes, up seems like the right direction, yeah?”
​

 

[Aalam Abungu]

160 / 160

[ 135/140 ]


He ran his finger over one of the walls as he looked at the ways there here provided for them it would take them some time to get down any of them and if it was a trap it was going to be annoying to deal with. "I agree that we should avoid that path of the lilies given now I know of them the fact they are growing down here could mean a good number of things but very few of those things seemed to be a good thing when I think about it." Walking over to the tunnel that has signs of water damage in the stone and tapping the floor. "I would also say we avoid this one unless someone has the ability to control water enough to create an air pocket so we don't drown. I will push the idea of heading up if nothing else."

Dropping back into the background as he checked the quality of his arrows making sure that he would have enough just in case they run into anything.

Play sheet

 

[Rael]

140 / 140

 125 / 130

-5 EN from Mastery Check

Rael couldn't help the giggle that burst forth from her lips at @Valmont's ominous wording, eyes springing wide in realization as she quickly moved a hand up to shield her mouth from view, very much looking like a deer in the headlights.

Multiple routes were being considered, opinions exchanged back and forth between the members of the group who each presented their thoughts on which way to follow, and for that, she was glad. Many stories had ended abruptly because the decision to split up the group had been taken, inevitably leaving all parties to fend for themselves against greater threats than they could take on.

For the moment, all of them wished to remain together, and she could only hope that it remained that way.

"[ Is this the one? ]" She asked @Ronja Bubblyfoot, stepping closer to the fork in the path which had been associated with the running water and pressing a hand out to the labyrinth's walls, her eyes closing as she did so.

While her talents laid elsewhere, she was still able to harness the magic which she had chosen for herself, tuning out the distant sound of an ongoing conversation to focus on the distant echo produced by the water. A ripple of visible, harmless energy ran from her forearm and extended her senses throughout the cavern system, increasing the volume of that which she wished to focus on the most - finding them a path forward.

---

Mastery Check
1d100 (67) + 10 = 77
Harmonic Magic | Rael | 1448C1

Playsheet Link

 

[Shadow Wolf]

The Labyrinth - Interjection​

The sound echoed outwards, barely audible to those nearby as it seemed to bounce off the narrowing tunnel walls, heading further and further down in search of anything that would signify a detail, a minor piece of information, a sign. Slowly, the breaths passed, as the pink-haired elf remained still. Listening, waiting, hoping.

What returned was confusing at first. The sounds carried a tune to them, a touch that reminded her of the water's surface. Slowly, the image formed in her head, giving her a taste of what lay ahead. Distorted, imperfect, but an image that described the waterway below.

The pink-haired elf's mind filled with a view; an underground waterway that seemed to lead at a slight downward slope, heading in a single direction - further. The water's surface seemed low, the tunnel walls in the image appeared to be at least double the height water itself. A good sign, possibly. What worried the elf, were the tremors on the water's surface - a sign of life, perhaps? Small circles that seemed to expand outwards...and yet...there were no signs of anything breaking the surface, making its presence known.

There was one thing for certain that the elf notices - should they choose this pathway, they would be in the water itself. How deep, one could not tell from the fragmented vision they received, but there would be no avoiding wet feet down this way, and possibly worse.

As the image slowly faded away, the elf noticed one other detail - something that had almost been missed. Moonlight, shimmer in the distance, as if from above. And then, just as quickly, the image was gone. A mere fragment of memory in her mind.


@Ronja Bubblyfoot, @Valmont, @Fiora Di Angelo, @Rael, @Zelrius, and @Aalam Abungu

 

[Shadow Wolf]

The Labyrinth​

Indecision, it would seem, would be the most dangerous thing to afront the group as they stood before the four passageways. Each holding their own dilemma, their own concerns. As the group spoke, confronting possibilities, arguing over dangers, and finally hearing the guidance of what may be nothing more than a malevolent voice in the air, they came to one conclusion; a lack of confirmation on which path to take.

Determined, desperate, or simply deciding that it would be the best option, the group found itself split. While the majority of the group would find themselves risking their way into the watery depths of the unknown, @Aalam Abungu and @Zelrius would find themselves taking a different path, a different risk.

As each group makes it's way forward, their chosen path leading them into the unknown, only one question could be asked - had they made the right decision?

Cycle 2; Of Separate Ways

Water Way

As @Fiora Di Angelo, @Rael, @Ronja Bubblyfoot, and @Valmont make their way into the wet-soaked tunnel, they realise one quick thing - they won't be coming out of this place dry. The water, mere shimmer against the light upon the walls and floor, slowly begins to rise as they move ever deeper into the tunnel itself. It's not long before the group finds themselves ankle deep in what slowly seems to be a developing river. Each step creates a ripple, echoing out from their slog forward and into the unknown.

Slowly, as if growing ever closer, the group begins to hear the sounds of something moving. A few moments seem to pass, before they recognise the sound ahead - flowing, moving water. The sounds seem distant yet, but there's one thing that is clear; whatever lies ahead, it isn't the soft, motionless water they're in right now.

---

Time passes in a funny way underground, and before they know it, the group finds themselves standing at the edge of a moving river - or what could be called a river, this far underground. The only thing they know for sure, is that it intersects with the lazy waterway they had been stepping through for the last while, the ankle deep pathway flowing softly into the more lively water source.

While the waterway leads on in either direction to the groups left and right, it is clear that it flows towards their right - towards a corner, where it softly bends away. A quick test proves two things; the water itself isn't overly deep, mere thigh height for most of the individuals, it is however glacial cold.

---

As the party comes upon a large, underground river they find themselves facing another choice - head off to their left, where the river disappears into the darkness, or to their right, where it curves around a corner, but seems to flow towards.

Group members may make a Awareness check to see what more they can learn from the river, or they can make a Fitness check to attempt to enter the river.

The Breeze

Silence, was what met @Aalam Abungu and @Zelrius as the remainder of the group moved towards the waterway. While the others chose the path of possible danger within the depths of water, the two players found themselves facing another direction; a direction that they hoped led upwards and away from the depths of...well, wherever this was.

As they entered their own pathway, they found themselves enveloped in a burst of air, pushing them forwards at a faster pace than they had expected, forcing each to stumble along against the air current that seemed to draw them further forwards. While the pressure was strong, the two found that hunched slightly forwards, they could move without too much difficulty, so long as they were careful with their steps.

The buffeting wind made communication difficult, the few spoken words torn from their lips, and almost never reaching the ears of the other. It did, however, provide one benefits - a direction to move. That direction led them towards an opening, where they could see light before long. A hope. A way out, perhaps.

As they entered the light, they found themselves at a sudden stop; a drop that seemed to go for several dozen metres before reaching the floor below. The two stood on the precipice, the wind having expelled out into the opening that was lit by moonlight from a gap in the ceiling, staring down at what was, as far as they could tell, a forest beneath the earth.

Two options seemed to lay before the duo; climb down and find out what lay beneath the canopy of the underground forest, or turn back and try to crawl to the group that they had left behind - fighting the air current as they went.

---

Group members may make a Fitness check to attempt to climb down the cavern wall towards the forest below. If the duo chooses this route, they may also make an Awareness check to determine if there are any paths to follow, or any dangers around (note which one of the two you are looking for).

Alternatively, group members may make a Fitness check at disadvantage to attempt to crawl back towards their original starting point, but take a risk of succumbing to the harsh winds and the results of such dangers.

Cycle 2 Rules

• No minimum/max word limits for posting. Muse is fickle, and we all know it comes and goes.
• You may post numerous times during this cycle, however standard TerraSphere rules apply (no double posting).
• Play Sheets are not required at this time, however you can prepare one which can be adjusted later in the challenge if required/desired. A cycle note will be placed if a set sheet is required.
• Cycle updates will occur no later than forty-eight (48) hours from initial cycle posts. If you're unable to make that time frame, shoot @Shadow Wolf a message on Discord. I'm understanding, and it won't be a huge deal once in a while!
• A Communications Thread is available for any lengthy communication that players feel is required beyond their post. Feel free to use this for general chatting, planning, or other topics as you desire!
• Homebrew Content: At this time only Homebrew Content from Shadow Wolf's Lair will be included for playtesting reasons.
• @Ronja Bubblyfoot, @Valmont, @Fiora Di Angelo, @Rael, @Zelrius, and @Aalam Abungu...welcome to the Labyrinth!

Spoiler: Energy Bar

As this system uses the Homebrew content, the Energy Measurement System is in place.

This can be monitored in any way the player desires (a commentary at the bottom/top of the post, fancy BBCode bars, etc.).

Each player starts with a base 100 EN, and gains +10 per Armour rank. I've taken the liberty to outline the EN for each player below, to give an example and hopefully make this easier on everyone, based on their ranks at time of sign-up! If there are changes to your armour rating, please feel free to update accordingly!

Ronja Bubblyfoot: 150 EN (A Rank Armour)
Valmont: 120 EN (D Rank Armour)
Fiora Di Angelo: 140 EN (B Rank Armour)
Rael: 130 EN (C Rank Armour)
Zelrius: 140 EN (B Rank Armour)
Aalam Abungu: 140 EN (B Rank Armour)

Example energy bar as requested by Harmonia, and kindly provided by Dez! Please note that the colour of the meter bar itself (where it says yellow, beside metercolor), can only be changed to certain colours at this time. Hex codes do not work, unless this has been updated.

[banner=#DA93A9][hp=140]140[/hp] [metercolor=0.97]yellow[/metercolor][metertext=#efc738][fa]fas fa-bolt need-icon [/fa] 125 / 130[/metertext] [status][B]-5 EN for Mastery Check[/B][/status][/banner]

 

[Ronja Bubblyfoot]

160 / 160

 140 / 150

-5 EN for Mastery Check

Ronja glanced to @Rael, nodding. "Yes, that's the place..." She said, gesturing to the water path, that somewhat emanated some cold from it, making the whole situation even more chilly.

The Magia then took the pink haired elf's hand when she suggested the idea, looking at @Fiora Di Angelo and offering her other hand. "Last thing we need is getting lost because some hole suddenly appeared and we fell on it! Natural traps are a thing." Ronja said, before muttering- "Not that this cave is any close to 'natural'..."

They usually didn't whisper ominous things at people, at least.

Following the path along with her allies and her flying Aidlings, the found river made the girl pause. "Aidlings, a pair to the left and a pair to the right." She said, and the four aidlings flickered before flying off to survey the two areas.

Meanwhile, Ronja looked at the lake, tilting her head, with her camera lens eyes clicking and zooming into it.

"Can you see anything, @Valmont?" She asked the fellow Magia. "Ronja don't want to risk taking blind steps. Even if it is swallow, it can have a hole somewhere." She tightened the grip of the hand hold. "Maybe we shouldn't rely only on hands, but on ropes too, just to make sure we won't plummet deep in a river and drown." She looked at the group.

Rolls

Expertise Check
1d100 (44) + 25 + 10 (Extension) = 79
Awareness | Ronja Bubblyfoot | 1448C2

Play Sheet

 

[Fiora Di Angelo]

190 / 190

 130 / 140

-5 EN for Mastery Check

"Well you were right, it does seem interesting so far." Fiora gave a nod back at @Rael. At least for now, since the water didn't go past their ankles this early, it would remain interesting. "The other two though..." Well, it's on Zelrius and Aalam. They took a risk, if it's worth it or not, they will know at the end of the day.

When a hand was offered her way, Fiora waved @Ronja Bubblyfoot off instead. "I need both hands for my sword so, as appealing as it sounds, I think I'll pass." She replied, giving off a nod to the newly formed handholding pair, before her sight instead fell over the expanse of this 'river' of sorts. A rarity to find one of these underground.

And worse, it's cold as a penguin's ass. And everyone's concerns seemed to be on what lies beneath, the hazards of adventuring, as opposed to the chill. She then turned towards @Valmont instead. "Alright captain, get your boat out for these two. I'll go ahead and make sure we don't get eaten by anything. It's shark season" Fiora's fingers tapped the air, on her palm menu as her armor begun to simply disappear with a fizzling sound, at least until it reached the chainmail and gambeson, keeping only plated boots and gauntlets as protection.

At least this way she wouldn't sink as soon as she took a step into the river. But just in case she made sure to pull out her shield from the vacuum of her inventory. Less mobility, but easier to fend off a shark bite with a big piece of steel than a sword. Probably.

---

Expertise Check
1d100 (44) + 35 = 79

Fitness | Fiora Di Angelo | 1448

@Ronja Bubblyfoot @Aalam Abungu @Valmont @Rael @Zelrius

 

[Aalam Abungu]

160 / 160

[ 135/140 ]


Grabbing his smoke as they made their way through the tunnel, it seemed that the wind was being funneled through to a point, and when they were able to get to it, the force should let up a bit, making sure that he didn't lose his arrows as they moved through the tight funnel. Pushing forward one foot at a time was slow going, given the amount of force that was pushing back against them, but they needed to get through. The wind was blowing his cloak forward as they moved, and he needed to break the wind a bit before they were able to come out of the tunnel and into what looked to be a part of a cave system. "Well, this one is new." Reaching up to send a note to the other part of the team that was going through this part of the labyrinth. "Seems like we have come to an opening. If we can find a pathway down, we will work for is not; we will be heading back and seeking to catch up with you all." Taking a long pull from his smoke and blowing a ring of it into the air as he turned his eyes to the void in front of him he was hunting down something looking for something that might try and kill them while they were exploring this part of the labyrinth.

Rolled a 122

Play sheet

 

[Valmont]

120 / 120

105 / 120
-5 Mastery to make a boat.

After immediately breaking the cardinal rule and splitting the party he followed along with the others down the waterway. He wasn’t terribly bothered by the water as it got above his ankles, his boots easily taking the moisture in stride. As it got to his thighs, he began to worry over some of the shorter members of their party, like @Rael.

Boots filled. Pants and coat were soaked, the added weight on the heavy material pulling down on his shoulders. Taking a note from @Fiora Di Angelo he opened his menu and dismissed the coat, to comical results. Over a dozen octahedron fell from now missing pockets to splash into the water, before shooting up into the air in a series of jets that left the blue-themed man sopping wet. Underneath the coat he had on a black vest and white button-up shirt. On his hip he wore the large pistol he’d been trying to hide before.

”Shit.” He sputtered. ”Well, nothing for it now.” A shiver ran through his body and he rubbed his arms for warmth.

At @Ronja Bubblyfoot ’s question he called back. ”I can’t see jack right now. But it seems like a good time for that boat, yeah?” Valmont drew up to a stop to concentrate at the new crossroads. With a glance up at the gently orbiting octahedron he sent them skittering out over the water. One by one they opened, and took up positions in a lattice-like pattern following practiced paths. Clearly he hadn’t had a lot of time to practice controlling his whole fleet at once, but he was managing it well enough. Arcs of light began to criss-cross this way and that, and a row-boat began to take shape from bottom to top as if it were being fabricated by a 3D printer. He saved on a lot of raw energy by making the shell thin and hollow, using a rough internal lattice to provide the necessary strength to keep it from buckling. Boards braced across the length for structure and seating. Once finished it dropped with a sploosh into the water. Dousing the would-be engineer once more. A pristine vessel of faceted arcane-blue, as if it was carved out of a single massive sapphire.

Reaching out a hand he steadied the vessel in the current. He spit out a mouthful of water before mumbling loud enough to echo, ”Anyone that wants to get dry, hop in. Too bad @Zelrius isn't here for a little of that heat. Rael, which way was that light of yours?.” One by one eleven of the octahedron took up positions along the rim, surfaces open to surround the boat in a blue glow, leaving a closed one to hover over his shoulder.
​

Arcanamancy Mastery

1d100 (26) + 10 = 36
Arcanamancy | Valmont | 1448C2
​

 

[Rael]

140 / 140

 120 / 130

-5 EN from Expertise Check

"[ Shall we go after them? But the voice had said... ]"

Her gaze lingered on a certain red-haired individual's back as he departed from the rest of the group, together with the only other member of the party who hadn't thought her newfound information to warrant a better inspection from the group. She worried for them much more than she did those who remained by her, the comforting touch of @Ronja Bubblyfoot's hand around her own diminishing what doubts remained.

No one else took her offer save for the small magia, whom she walked with as the rest of their group headed down the waterway which she had already seen most of thanks to her vision. Constructs summoned out of thin air set out to scout their surroundings, her teeth clattering as the freezing temperature of the water permeated her stockings and started weighing down on her garments, the elf always one to dress for form rather than function.

Anxiety rose, as did the water.

"[ I-Is this a bad time to mention I don't know how to swim? ]" The melodic intonation of her magical script played some off-key notes, denoting the emotions surging through the elf's mind at the very late realization of why this path would be inconvenient to her. By the time she next manifested her suggestion, @Fiora Di Angelo was already moving forward, intent on keeping them safe from harm. "[ Uh, maybe we should turn back. O-Oh! Be careful! ]"

Her hand let go of Ronja's as she surged forward, grabbing fistfuls of @Valmont's clothing to act as her anchor, gaze ever fixed downwards as if the water would swallow her whole if given chance.

"[ The light..? Oh, I think it was... ]"

---

Expertise Check
1d100 (69) + 0 = 69
Awareness | Rael | 1448C2

Playsheet Link

 

[Zelrius]

160 / 160

130/140

-10 EN for 2 Checks

Zelrius steeled himself, watching the others leave the direction with the water. Wondering, doubting if for a moment that maybe he should be going with them. It was too late, his ally @Aalam Abungu had already began to forge ahead. That was all the persuasion the firebrand needed. His brows furrowed, making his way down the dark tunnels and cavernous walls. Holding out a hand to try and light a flaming sphere in order to see ahead. One that flickered went out at each small breath it took, drowned by the increasing winds.

His arm went up in a horizontal bar, blocking perhaps a foot in front of his face with his elbow bent to stop the cold, dry air from turning his eyes to stone. Or whatever the hell it was that happened when your eyes dried out completely. His hair annoyingly waved in the wind, loose strands ticking his face, and the back of his head. A look over to the adventurer to his side, and Zelrius would try to call out to him. Immediately drowned out by the flowing wind. This was already not looking good.

No sooner had they found the cliff, than had the man opened up his messaging system. Then, he turned heel and tried to push back the other way, now against the current of air. Now alone, the redhead was only able to watch with wide eyes as his only remaining teammate disappeared into the darkness behind him. Should he follow him? A rotation of his neck, back down to the flora below. No, he had chosen this path. He wouldn't be mocked by Fiora or seen as a coward by the others for going back on his decision. The man had suffered alone on excursions in the past. He wasn't going to tuck tail and run now.

He crouched down, turning the other way, hands finding the edge of the slope, before his heels kicked back over the cliff side. Quickly finding grabholds along. He had climbed the walls of Vintergard, waded through the swamps of the Isulus. Battle a Wolf Queen. He could feel it in the tension of his fingers, in the way his shoulderblades pulled back and fought against the definition of his back. This body was far stronger than Markus's, far more coordinated. The last few months had reshaped his thinner original design of this avatar into something with more meat. Practiced through countless fights, and toned by runs, and climbs, and lifts. Going down this slope would be easier for him than the man was initially prepared for.

It wouldn't be long before he was able to push off the side of the vertical surface and land on his feet with a loud pat of his shoes on the dirt. Immediately, ocean blue pupils set to work in washing over the environment, watching, waiting for anything to jump out of the underbrush at him.

Rolls

Expertise Check
1d100 (55) + 20 = 75
Fitness | Zelrius | 1448C3

Expertise Check
1d100 (52) + 0 = 52
Awareness | Zelrius | 1448C3