Complete Main Story (Story Event) Red Fever

[Asch]

Cycle 0
Multi-level Recruitment

When the stars aligned the four faction leaders found themselves seated around a needlessly-large table within the meeting room inside the newly-constructed Astorean palace in Finweald.

Darkness surrounded the pristine marble table, pushed back only by the blue light illuminating the chamber. At the center of the table was a crown crafted with the same marble the table was made out of. Whatever arcane ember was burning inside of the crown was likely the reason why it was hovering above the table. If that wasn't enough, the crown flashed its opulence with various gems embedded on its body.

Within the larger chamber, a marble statue stood in each of the four cardinal directions:

Guarding the west was a knight in ornate heavy armor, holding his fist over his heart, where a blue flame burned in silence, representing the Lion Arms.

Guarding the east was an adventurer in light armor, a sword hung from her waist with one hand resting on it while the other set proudly on one hip. Her flame burned through the cracks of her fingers set upon the sword's pommel, representing the Adventurers Guild.

Guarding the south was a wizard with an open book in one hand and a quill in the other. His flame burned at the tip of his writing implement, representing the Magical Institute of Theory (MIT).

Guarding the north was an upright woman with a whistle in her mouth and a hand above her eyes. The last flame burned atop a torch she held aloft, representing the Explorers League.

Sitting right in front of the League's statue was the dainty Cessia, dignified as ever. She was attired in formal wear, freshly-cleaned spectacles, and sitting with her legs together and the pair of hands kept on her lap.

It's been a while since we've last met face-to-face, hasn't it? Such a rare occasion should be celebrated with a round of tea, if everyone is keen on the offer.

However stiff Cessia was, Childress was the complete opposite. She assumed a relaxed posture with one arm slung over the back of her chair and one leg over the other.

I'm not here for tea, little miss. How about we cut the crap and get right to the point?

Everyone here got the report from my whistles, yes?

The camp we established north of Isulus was completely wiped out when fools went mad and butchered each other.

Childress spoke without any reservation, knowing that the chamber was constructed to block any attempt at eavesdropping, arcane or not. To illustrate her point, a subtle, circuit-like crimson glow could be seen traversing the floor, walls and ceiling of the room at a set interval. It was some kind of new invention installed by the MIT who are slowly uncovering the newly discovered Magitech.

Similar to Cessia, Ordnung was just as sharp in his meticulously-ironed ivory suit. He had both of his elbows propped up on the tabletop with fingers intertwined and pressed against his mouth in the full Gendo pose.

We received ze report. Ze initial hypotheses seems to indicate that it's some kind of conzition that spreads, far too quickly if the camp went dark in less than three days.

We have to take control of the situation and investigate. Ze sooner, ze better.

Levi who sat across from the MIT leader cupped his chin as he internally analyzed the situation. The Knight Commander was adorned in heavy armor with a good mix of cloth to soften the sharpness of his platemail. It didn't seem like the knight ever deviates from his distinguishing red and white colors.

We need to proceed with caution then. Anytime an emergency happens, we have to figure out what we're up against before we can commit to action.

And while we do need the manpower, it's going to be pretty difficult with all the new Travelers entering the world for the first time, completely unaware of the danger that whistles undergo daily.

Training and experience inform a whistle's decision during emergencies.

How do you suppose they acquire the experience and ability to thrive in this world if you continue to coddle them?

Some learnings can only happen when you face dangers head on.

Cessia clapped her hand once and interjected the heated conversation between the Felis and the Knight to steer them back on course.

It may be an inopportune time, but may I offer a strange proposition?

How about we buffer the number for this operation by turning it into a joint recruitment event?

Considering the danger of the mission, we can both bolster our number and show the newcomers how each faction operates?

Levi shot Cessia a glance laced with annoyance.

That's a highly irresponsible suggestion! First of all, it's a dangerous mission, roping new-arrivals into it would only serve to get them killed.

Ordnung put his leg and hands down as he directed his attention toward Levi.

I concur with Fräulein Cessia, it is a highly efficient way to gain ze manpower necessary to resolve ze emergency. Strength in numbers.

Childress nodded in agreement.

Agreed.

Sorry Levi-boy, I'm with the little miss on this one.

The faster we get the new Travelers used to the world, the better. And if we get more whistles out of it, great! But if they happen to die, then perhaps they should respect the unknowns and train some more.

The brightest stars are forged in the flame of danger, don't snuff their light before they have a chance to shine. HAH!

Levi screamed internally from being forced to agree with the other three as the meeting came to an end, marking the start of the multi-level recruitment campaign.

---

It was the final week before the end of March during the auspicious 8th Traveler year when the recruitment ad spread across Astorea like wildfire. If you were staying in Astorea at any point during this time, you would have seen one of these posters distributed by felis, on the walls, being passed around, or pinned on the quest boards at any of the Adventurers Guildhalls.

Ad

Come one, come all,

In collaboration with the Lion Arms, the Magical Institute of Theory, and the Adventurers Guild, the Explorers League is setting off on an expedition to northern Isulus.

The goal of the expedition is to figure out what happened with the missing whistles, secure the encampment, and resolve whatever caused the camp to go dark in the first place.

If you have been looking for information on any of the player factions, what they stand for and how they operate, here's a rare chance to find out!

Faction members will be joining the expedition and assist and answer any question you might have.

The expedition will set off on the morning of the 29th at the League's headquarters: The Embertorch in lower Finweald.

See you there, recruits!

 

[mina*]

Cycle 1
Expedition Expectations

Spoiler: Mood

A discordant mix of sounds filled the air of the busy atmosphere surrounding the League’s Headquarters. People from all walks of life, Traveler or not, dotted the entirety of the roads leading to and fro the collection of small buildings that all served as the homebase of the Whistles, members of the League.

Standing out amidst them, however, was the main building, the Embertorch. Built on top of a bridge, it was suspended over the newfound hustle and bustle caused by the recruitment announcement of the upcoming expedition. It was a marvelous building created by the unified efforts of Travelers and Landers alike, giving it a unique mixture of design, functionality and presence if one were to compare it to the structures that surrounded it.

Although a place where Whistles normally gathered, it was an unusual day as several members of the four factions could be observed working in tandem with one another.

On the sidelines, newcomers would find themselves in a chaotic rush to prepare for the hurdles yet to come. While it appeared that most people had a vague idea of what they had to do in order to contribute, everybody was short of hands. It had been at least a couple of years since such a large expedition was organized, so activity was happening at every corner beneath the massive bridge holding the Embertorch over the street that ran through it.

After their early briefing with relevant Whistles, Childress and Feodan left the building, stopping at the top of the stairs leading into the Embertorch where they could observe the ‘organized chaos’ that was the expedition’s preparation below. It was only natural, after all, the Lions, MIT, and Guild had no idea how the League operated.

That’s… a lot of people, and chaos. Hm-hm.

(Feodan chortled as he twiddled his curls.)

The lot sure looks fired up. I understand now why your people say Travelers bring change.

There was a hint of surprise in the Felis’ eyes, the Black Whistle usually kept his opinion to himself, so when he did speak, it always sounded a bit cryptic.

Hoooh? The man speaks after all.

What do you mean?

Childress turned her attention to the bustling scene below.

No, no, I just find it both amusing and worrying that all gears started shifting again as soon as they returned.

Hah! The more the merrier! Though they won’t last long if they continue killing wolves and bears for pelts.

Better they learn to skin something else for a change.

So, do you two plan on staying there chit-chattin’? We gotta brief them on the expedition properly!

A short vulpine beastfolk interrupted the League’s top-brass when she spotted them chatting the busy morning away. With her hands on her hips and an intensely energetic aura about her, she bounced her gaze between the two, expecting some sort of reaction from them.

Hmm, exploring a temple full of deadly traps is easier than trying to control those Travelers, hoho.

(He broke into a cold sweat thinking about such unpleasantries.)

Heh. Why don’t you have a go, long-eared?

The mustache’s got a frog in his throat so he’s not going to give commands anytime soon.

The vulpine beastfolk let out an exasperated sigh, what was she even expecting from a man everyone dubbed the silent mountain?

Alright, alright! Lemme at it, boss!

Arlyn squeezed past her two superiors and huffed at the sight of the preparations going on. From the top of the stairs, everyone almost looked like headless chickens clucking around looking for feeds. Some were packing the supplies on different wagons, others appeared to be lost on where to load the exploring equipment. The organized chaos had no end.

Ahem, alright. Hey! All of you! Listen up!

She cleared her throat and got right into it with a commanding tone… and zero response.

Hey! Are you deaf? Listen UP!

(She raised her arms, beckoning for their attention.)

On her second attempt, a few had stopped what they were doing to look at the beastfolk, but only for a few seconds before they continued on their task. No matter — they say three times the charm, after al-

STOP WHAT YOU’RE DOING AND LISTEN THE HELL UUUUUUUUP!!!!!

The tail swishing behind the vulpine beastfolk split into three, bursting into blue and lavender flames; the synchronized burst of light and her piercing voice at long last stopped the ongoing chaos, garnering the attention of the majority of recruits who were there.

Childress watched with a prideful grin on her face, as the Violet Whistle single-handedly silenced the hustle and bustle.

With the stage prepared for her, Childress stepped up to the spotlight after she tapped Arlyn on the shoulder, as if to tag her out.

The Felis woman carried herself with a subtle yet intense presence. She may not have Arlyn’s verbal intensity, but her words seem to carry a lot of weight behind them.

This is the biggest expedition the League has ever hosted and I’m thankful for your willingness to participate.

However! Such manpower also comes with less room for error.

So as we work together, keep your eyes open and ears keen.

Follow the way of Whistles and watch your team’s back.

The Felis paused.

With the formal part out of the way, let’s cut the inspirational speech short.

The League’s northernmost outpost in Isulus was wiped out. We don’t know why the Whistles attacked their own, in fact, we don’t know anything at all. All contacts with the camp have been cut, so this might get real hot.

Got it?

Let me repeat that: this isn’t gonna be a bear hunt. I’m not looking for cowards who will fold like paper, nor do I want self-sacrificing martyrs!

This is your LAST and ONLY warning!

If you don’t think you can handle the heat, turn back now!

If you think you have what it takes to brave the unknown and conquer adversities, then we’re allies regardless of your creed or allegiance.

May the stars light our path!

PER! ASPERA!

A select part of the crowd chanted the greeting back, before a large portion joined in with their own voice. Childress headed toward the building where Feodan was waiting for her. She tapped Arlyn in when she passed the vulpine beastfolk.

Y’all heard the boss loud and clear, yeah?! Good! Let’s get this expedition on the way!

Hey! You lot, over there! That’s not where the equipment goes! Hey! Crafty ones over there! Check if the wagons are in good condition! Hey! All you muscleheads in the back, we got a buncha supplies left to load!

Get movin’! Gooo!

 

[Asch]

Guidelines

• Up to 2 characters are permitted to participate in the event per cycle.
• There is no set posting order.
• Any character can join this event.
• There is no restriction for joining the event late, so feel free to hop in at anytime!
• Each character is allotted 1 post per cycle.
• Replies have a max word count of 450 words including BBcodes.
• This thread will be updated roughly every 24-36 hours,
• It is not a problem to miss a cycle, just assume your character was there and rejoin when you're able!
• Any communication can be done either by making a private comms thread or posted in Red Fever's official communication thread.
• This event thread is focused entirely on progressing the plot. If you would like to take a personal moment with others, you can make a private thread outside of this one.
• To get the most of site-wide events, try to include other characters in your reply, you'd be surprised how interacting with others can enrich your experience with this type of content.

Cycle 1
Expedition Expectations

By showing up to the meeting spot, your character is assumed to have committed to go on the expedition.

• To begin, make an Expertise or Mastery roll (Any) to help the group prepare for the multi-days expedition ahead.
• Thread Code: 550C1.
• All rolls must be done in the #red-fever-rolls channel.
• The total contribution will roll over to the next cycle, so every little bit will help the group advance later.
• At the moment of posting, refresh and look at the contribution count of the poster above you and update the total count accordingly. The contribution is counting UP
• If you would like to represent a faction, having already joined it, you can include the line "XX Member" within the [status*] BBcodes.
• Relevant Links: Spreadsheet Tracker, TLDR Play Sheet Guide, Full Play Sheet Guide, Official Comms Thread

Possible Objectives

• Prepare the transportation (horses and wagons)
• Prepare food, water, and other provisions
• Guide and assist new recruits
• Preparing battle gear
• Socialize with others to increase morale
• Check-in on faction-specific briefings
• Etc.

Spoiler: Post Template

[hp=current]max[/hp]
[status]
XX Member
[/status]

Post here

[action]
Bot result here
[/action]
Current Contribution Count: XXXX
Play Sheet Link

 

[Zelrius]

120 / 120

Adventurer's Guild Member - Gold Rank

It was mayhem down on the floor. One stopped only briefly by the shouting of the Foxgirl, with a moment to breathe as the Whistle Nerd supreme spoke. Giving a speech about the coming danger. Zelrius knew; he had been there once before. A moment in his mind flashed, the faces of Vina, Actor and Blake, as well as that of the toad men who had-

The thought ended there with a shudder. Fighting back the sickening dark feeling and his mind echoing the sound of the bowstrings. The brief moment of order ended, much to his gratitude. A moment to turn and focus on something else. To push down the bad. The blonde adventurer was quick to find a task; seeing food being prepared for loading and travel. Specifically, uncut vegetables that could be minced down for easy consumption. Eager, the man flew over to the string of wooden tables that were loaded down with goods. Pots of warm water to boil and soften the food, with cooks manning them, people carrying the supplies away in the crates to put on the wagons, and others helping dice up to make the goods more compact. That was something he could help with.

Swift hands crossed his torso to either hip, quickly drawing the twin swords with a metallic swing. No sooner did those same blades come down in a flurry to begin cutting the vegetables. Almost none of which did he actually get diced smoothly. Instead, one of the orange pieces of food got smooshed, and his weapon went clean through the table. The weak legs giving out, and the surface collapsing. Dumping the work of @Harlow and @Sol off and to the ground with a crash and clatter.

Rolls

Mastery Check
1d100 (2) + 10 = 12

Slash Weapons | Zelrius | 550C1

Current Contribution Count: 0012
Play Sheet Link

 

[Elizabeth Lixshine]

Critical Failure

1

100 / 100

Explorer's League Member

Tall was an understatement, she was practically towering over a majority of the people here. Movement has hectic and it did not help that people can somehow still bump into the blonde haired explorer. Then again, who knows what walks of life have lent their aid to this cause. Endless streams of Adventurers, Lions, Researchers and Explorers seem to fill every gap that Elizabeth tried to push into. She had a simple goal in mind, with her real life expertise on horses, she decide to make her contribution in the best place possible, the stables.

So after a brief hurrah from the lady in charge, Elizabeth felt the flame of determination in her heart. How can you back down after such a moment? You would not be blamed for leaving, but you would feel guilty for stepping out when so many have made their inventory part of this cause. A spring in her step, and Elizabeth pushes herself towards the stables. She hollered out, "If anyone wants to help me ready the horses, I'm heading there now!"

Once she pushes her away into the stables, she approaches the one to her right and gives it a gentle pat on the head. A little caress and gentle touching along the snout later, and she knew the horse was ready to move.

"For anyone who hasn't prepared horses before! Be gentle and feel free to ask questions," Elizabeth told whoever would have joined her and begins work on her horse. First, it needs to be clean and their horseshoes checked, then the bridle rigged up and ready to go. The wagon people can handle the rest, getting the horses out and ready is another.

Rolls

Expertise Check
1d100 (1) + 5 = 6 (Critical Failure!)

Presence | Elizabeth Lixshine | 550C1

Current Contribution Count: 0018
Play Sheet Link

 

[Jin]

120 / 120

Non-Affiliated

Word spread like wildfire through Faldaren and Astorea alike. The guilds called on Travelers to assist with an expedition; but to his knowledge, a joint expedition like this was rare, and for them to call on Travelers who were not affiliated with any guild was virtually unheard of. Even to Jin, that sort of thing seemed shady. When they quieted the crowd and began to explain, he understood why immediately.

An entire outpost of presumably capable guild members, wiped out. So, they are capable of surprises, he mused. His entire fascination with this adventure was, admittedly, learning more about what made these organizations tick.

Their response inspired a glimmer of amusement that sparkled in his blood colored eyes as others began to sort themselves and set about making preparations for things to get underway in earnest. He took a moment and slowed his breathing to expand his senses and activate Investigation Mode. "You there," he gestured toward a pair that looked lost, "tell me what you're looking for, and I'll help you make sure that you find it."

And so, Jin began to help shepherd the lost. It was the most useful thing he could manage given the circumstances.

Rolls

Mastery Check
1d100 (24) + 10 = 34

Current Contribution Count: 0052
Play Sheet Link

 

[Hanasakura Okami]

100 / 100

Lion Arms Member

Okami was one of the people who was helping prepare the food items. While she had put her blade away in favor of a kitchen knife, it did not mean she was not trying to flourish what she was doing. After all, cooking is an art, how could she not try to at least do something with the food. She can't imagine the people fighting having to eat basic crap. Unlike Applesun, at least this prep was easy enough. Just cut veggies, season the meat and ensure that whatever was being made can last the trip and still taste good enough.

Before she can even bring her knife down on the first tomato like vegetable on her chopping board, she watched the table skew and crash. Turning to her right, she scowled. Another dumbass. She wanted to hit @Zelrius on the head for such a stupid thing. They were cooking food and now it's on the floor. He did not even chop things right. A shake of her head and she looks at the broken bits. She had an idea now.

"You, Adventurer, how confident are you in splitting wood into..." Okami might as well make what she can of the leftovers as she picks up a plank of wood, about big enough to hold things inside without compromising too much space. "This size? Make a box just like this..." Okami then grabs splinted pieces and makes a box out of the broken table. A bento box as it was known in her home country.

"If you can do this we won't at least waste this table you broke, and at least you can put that power of yours to use," Okami hoped this would at least pull him away from the table. She hopes the other people prepping food are a bit more in control of their ability to chop.

Rolls

Mastery Check
1d100 (45) + 5 = 50

Slash Weapons | Hanasakura Okami | 550C1

Current Contribution Count: 00102
Play Sheet Link

 

[Haru]

145 / 145

All-Faction Associate

Clink, clink, clink.

Among the bustling of the crowd was amother recruiter that took his time to organize the people behind the stage-or rather before it, for he was in the crowd itself. A gentle frame was traversing the churning wall of volunteers that had come to bolster the line.

The crowd of life was a sea of souls to the eye of the watchful Sage. He sought those who had yet to grow, lost folk who had little idea what they intended to get into. Men like @Brutus Dahlgren and @The Guy . Women like @Lucy and @Laylabelle . There were many who had come here on the announcement for excitement. Haru was one of those men-for excitement needed direction, and he intended to help direct.

"Would you like to come with me? A wonderful group of folk await. We'll be safer together, would you like to see? Ha, ha, ha..."

Clink, clink, clink.
The hanging baubles around his neck jingled in unison as he slipped through the crowd as a shephard. Among these ornaments lie the signets of many factions, large and small. Any face from anywhere could see their symbol upon the sage's breast. Surely such a man could be trusted?

He split through the masses like a ghost to help @Jin shephard souls. He appeared out of nowhere as if to help @Zelrius clean up. He said hello to @Corsair and @Mighty Rumblehide and many other lost folk who had yet to face the harsh truth of this world, asking them all if they wished to join his merry band.

Rolls

Expertise Check
1d100 (86) + 35 = 121

Knack | Haru | 550C1

Current Contribution Count: 0223
Play Sheet Link

 

[Sol]

☀˚̣⋅ .

165 / 165

Explorer's League Member - Orange Whistle

It was extremely at the Explorer's League headquarters. Sol was moving about, breathing evenly as she carried two boxes in her arms, setting them down on a table as she paused for a moment, wiping some sweat off her brow before turning around and heading to grab some more boxes. She was focusing on the more quiet tasks, dodging the people that walked around her swiftly as her mind was set on the task. This would be her first large-scale expedition as an Explorer's League member, and she was obviously proud of that fact as her orange whistle bumped along against her chest when she moved, ready for use if needed.

Reaching down and collecting 2 boxes again from the ground, she hoisted them up with a 'hup', having no issue carrying them over to the table that she had left the other 2 boxes. It was at the exact moment she placed them down that the table collapsed through the middle, completely missing the presence of a @Zelrius that, for some reason, we using two swords to chop some mere vegetables.

Letting out a long, heavy sigh, Sol reached down to collect the boxes again and put them somewhere else, shooting a glare at the blonde man as she went by, "This is why we don't use two swords when cutting the vegetables," she hissed at him under her breath, flipping her hair at him as she turned around and went. Once all of her boxes were prepared, she turned her gaze upward as she scanned the crowd, looking for the next task to take part of to get the expedition under way.

Rolls

Expertise Check
1d100 (18) + 25 = 43
Fitness | Sol | 550C1

Current Contribution Count: 0266
Play Sheet Link

 

[Theria]

100 / 100

With so many people, Theria knows that not everyone will be ready by the time they need to go. Opening her trusty spellbook, Theria begins to look down the list of spells she has. The tattered notebook filled with scribbles was something she was proud of. This was her culmination of her time learning Chronomancy and was only going to get bigger. Thankfully, Theria quickly found the spell she was searching for. Reviewing the spell in her head, Theria takes her staff out.

Theria prepares her spell intending to speed everyone in an area so they can move faster. As she builds her mana, she visualizes the spell. With a burst of light, Theria unleashes her spell creating a small zone where people can move faster. While it didn't cover the entire floor, at least she can help some people out with their preparation.

Taking a deep breath, Theria calls out, "Hey everyone, if anyone needs a bit more time, do it over here!" Pointing to a small square marked by clocks fading in and out of existence.

Satisfied with her work, Theria runs out the door to the market and wonders out loud. "I wonder what I should buy and pack?"

Rolls

1d100 (31) + 5 = 36

Chronomancy | Theria | 550C1

Current Contribution Count: 00302
Theria

 

[Alcea]

115 / 115

She knew the risks, coming to the expedition. Yet, if there was any place for Leila to be, it would be in this sort of event. And of course, there were so many that didn't really know what they were getting into. If she could save even one other person, it would be worth the risks.

She made her way to the kitchens. Sumire wasn't bad when it came to cooking, and she knew various rituals that would aid in the preservation of food. However, as she peeked in, she could already see that the kitchen staff had somehow already destroyed a table. Some things really never changed. She carefully made her way past @Hanasakura Okami and @Zelrius before moving over to the completed foodstuffs.

It wasn't a great environment to work in, she could barely hear herself over the ruckus. Still, her practice had definitely paid off as the din of the crowd started to wash away in her mind's eye. Channeling spiritual energy, she started to imbue the food. The taste, she would leave to the current cooks. She didn't really have any faith in them, but she had to do what she could with the time she had. Instead, preservation of food and water would be her current priority. Part of her wanted to just wander and search, but the success of the expedition was more important. Sumire would have time for personal matters later.

Rolls

Mastery Check
1d100 (72) + 10 = 82

Spirit Magic | Sumire | 550C1

Current Contribution Count: 0384
Play Sheet Link

 

[Harlow]

195 / 195

Lion Arms - Squire

Learning quickly was turning out to be something of a disadvantage, as many realized that he picked up medial tasks remarkably quick. In one moment, Harlow was running a crate of supplies from one end of the preparation area to another. The next, he was giving directions and packaging bandages. After that came cooking?! It was a multifaceted exhaustion technique, and he never stood still for longer than a few seconds.

When the pressure rose and tensions bubbled… Harlow overcame. Busy days at the cafe working solo taught him a refined focus that he employed here as well. Overwhelming odds were for those without the guts to conquer them. At first, @Zelrius's technique was impressive, if not reckless. Harlow's eyes widened as the table began to fracture. The table was forfeit, but something could be salvaged. Immediately recognizing the break, Harlow swiftly retrieved his own wealth of chopped vegetables before it could spill to the floor with the rest of the table's contents. The crashing boxes that had been hoisted by @Sol created enough noise to cause Harlow's typically motionless face to flash a wince.

"Careful." A warning well too late. Harlow glanced towards Zelrius. Despite the cold delivery and expressionless face, Harlow's shoulders would hop a few times, evidence that he was more humored by the display than disappointed. After all, strength would be needed in the coming struggles, and there was far too much preparation left to do to be concerned with the table. Before long, he was shuffled back into the storm of busy feet and bossy voices, eager and able.

Rolls

Mastery Check
1d100 (80) + 15 = 95

Hyper Sense | Harlow | 550C1

Current Contribution Count: 00479
Play Sheet Link

 

[Eve Lightscar]

130 / 130

An operation as sizeable as this led to a lot of moving parts, and there would inevitably be things lost in the chaos. Eve scanned the crowd, searching. Millie would have been all over an opportunity like this, if she was around at all. Joining in on this expedition would likely be a good way to find her; surely the self-proclaimed "Azrael Wolfrazor, hero of the people!" wouldn't pass up a chance to be part of a venture like this.

Still, though, he could not spend all his time just searching for his sister. He had agreed to join this expedition, and he would be pulling his weight. As he was searching for something that he could do to assist, his gaze landed on a statuesque blonde woman declaring that she would be helping to prepare the horses. However, it seemed as though there was no one else going to join her; perhaps her call had been lost in the din.

That wouldn't do. The horses were a vital part of the journey. Though he knew next to nothing about animal care, he opted to follow after @Elizabeth Lixshine, making his way to the stables.

"I'm by no means an expert on animals, especially not horses, so I'll probably not be of much assistance right now. But if you have anything you need me to do, I'll do what I can," he said to her. Horseshoe inspection looked to be the first round of checks. Navigating to his menu, Eve pulled up the skill that he had surmised would increase his visual perception, and made his way to the next horse. "Is there anything in particular I should be looking out for?" he asked.

Rolls

Mastery Check
1d100 (82) + 5 = 87

Hyper Sense | Eve Lightscar | 550C1

Current Contribution Count: 566
Play Sheet Link

 

[Schilva Flasch]

115 / 115

Unaligned

Schilva was broke. Again.

After the events of a certain disastrous encounter out in the wilds with some goblin thieves, a keg of stolen oil and a very large barrel of sardines, his sword had slipped out of his hands and been lost somewhere down a river that he couldn't for the life of him attempt to pinpoint again in the Western Brisshal wilds.

The swordsman immediately spent as much as money as he could shell out to make sure he got a replacement in time, along with a hefty bribe to the smith for secrecy. Nobody had to know that the great Schilva Flash lost his fate-forged katana to a ridiculous series of events that would be more suited to the role of a comic character than the obvious hero that he was. I mean, what lost katana? Of course he'd always been wielding this sword right here.

Either way, the swordsman had been feeling his empty purse when he espied the call to arms pinned outside the smithy. A lightbulb moment later, he was hopping a hitchhiked wagon towards the epicenter of activity at the Whistles' HQ.

On account of the sheer number of correspondents to the rallying advertisement, Schilva wasn't spared a single glance as he squeezed in among the commuting mercenaries and would-be heroes, packed so tightly among the adventurers that he could hardly shift a leg to get comfy.
As the vehicle shuddered to a stop before the great congregation, Schilva would rub his hands together eagerly and attempt a dramatic leap from the still-settling wagon and land amidst the crowd.

Already enunciating his proclamation of entrance into this expedition as he shoots off from the massed adventurers waiting to get off the wagon, Schilva pops out over the crowd for a moment, billowing ascetic robes catching the wind.
"T'is time for the great Schilva Flasch t-"

He lands on his feet, sure, but that's about as much as he manages. A momentary stumble is followed by someone bumping into him as he tries to recover, sending the swordsman tumbling to the ground with a faceplant to boot. Still, unruffled, he points defiantly at the Embertorch as his face burns bright red, among whispers of 'I didn't know they hired jesters for us' and outbursts of laughter.

"Sign me up, I'm here to help."

Rolls

Expertise Check
1d100 (99) + 10 = 109
Fitness | Schilva Flasch | 550C1

Current Contribution Count: 0675
Play Sheet Link

 

[Alphabet Chocolate]

230 / 230

Adventurer's Guild Member (?) - Corrupt Cop: Willing to defect for bribes.

There was one life lesson that had never failed Alpha once: attending MLM recruitment gatherings is the best way to get free food, branded t-shirts, and jobs! There was a burst of nostalgia as she listened to the lion lady talk. Ah, it just sent her back to the days when she started her own business at the tender age of twelve after partnering with Avon and Mary Kay. Thus, Alpha wasn't very surprised when she had to do some chores to get the grub at the end. If they weren't offering some aperitifs, they would surely come after Alpha pulled herself up by the bootstraps and made some dough.

Recruiting people? It sounded fun, she used to do a fair bit of it back in the days, but Alpha couldn't exactly message anyone anymore. Everyone knew you couldn't recruit children without social media memes and astroturfing. And she couldn't exactly help the recruits! Helping out the competition? Excusez Moi, but that victory brunch will be for Alpha and Alpha alone!

Thus, Alpha found herself a less savory task: resource procurement. It was unfortunate that there was no Walmart around here and, for the shops that did exist, coupon clipping was not a thing. Luckily, Alpha had a knack for some things: stealth, dancing, sleight of hand...and, well, some of those skills were perfectly for procuring temporary loans for startup small businesses.

And this led her to this moment, her pouch filled with gold; an apple; a priceless family heirloom; two tickets to Astor: The Musical; a waterskin; some lint; and a picture of some guy's dead daughter. Most importantly: a fresh target right in front of her.

"Oh hello sir!" the man looked vaguely familiar, but she couldn't quite place it. Eh, a mystery for another day. "Would you like to donate some money to the Poor Children's Orphanage for Child Soldiers Who Were Displaced Due To Awful Reasons?"

Her eyes widened a smidge bit, her bottom lip poked out. "Please, sir?"

She glanced at his pockets and licked her lips. Mmm. Dough.

@Zelrius

Rolls

Expertise Check
1d100 (11) + 50= 61

Knack | Alphabet Chocolate | 550C1

Current Contribution Count: 0736
Play Sheet Link

 

[Sean Poteitoku]

160 / 160

Lion Arms Member

I can't help but be concerned about what apparently happened to the outpost. There's a chance that it's a lead-up to something worse... I should join, offer my protection.

Sean inspected the combat gear for the expedition, deep in thought. The prospect of there being so many people to investigate the outpost didn't sit right with him, but he did acknowledge the necessity of the expedition. In his thoughts, he ended up starting to mutter to himself subconsciously.

"I need to make sure all the weapons and armor are in top shape..." Sean shook his head as he held up a sword. "...I may need to test this out." He gave the blade a few swings, making sure nobody was close enough to be in danger first. "...It'll work, I'd say."

As Sean worked, he observed the crowds, thinking back on the past. So much has happened. I need to be ready to protect everyone when the time comes. He couldn't help but stare off into the sky, though, as he kept his thoughts to himself.

Rolls

Mastery Check
1d100 (42) + 25 = 67

Slash Weapons | Sean Poteitoku | Thread 550C1

Current Contribution Count: 0803
Play Sheet Link

 

[Cain Darlite]

145 / 145

Presently Unaffiliated

Isulus. He had heard of that place before, though Yladia was rarely where he ventured back before the Stars were called away. Infested with all sorts of fungal life. Some were more sentient than others, predators that blended in as vegetation naturally did. Others took on more obvious forms, parasitic fungi that hijacked the mind and reduced its host to a shambling corpse.

But even worse, it was humid, the perfect hell for a fully-dressed performer like himself. Cain, Flagbearer of Miracles, though, showed up at the Embertorch in his complete attire: collared shirt, embroidered vest, a swallowtail coat, a slick hat, and a belt to hold up his slimcut trousers, ones that naturally lead to a pair of leather shoes that looked more at place at a dance hall than for traipsing through the woods. But muses had their convictions, and bards of all feathers travelled the world in their costumes.

And, even more importantly, in the death trap that was Isulus, on an expedition that was open for all the Starcalled…well, Cain wasn’t going to just let the newcomers walk to their deaths without supervision and good advice. If he had learned anything over his re-entry into the Terrasphere, it was that reckless fools remained even when the costs were clarified. So he put in the work instead. Opened up some old contacts around Falderen and Astorea. Twisted a few arms with his words. Spoke to merchants about investments and returns, spoke to nobles about charity and prestige.

They were happy, of course, to donate what they could. Provisions and the carts to carry them, accompanied by steeds to bear the burdens. The only problem though? No regular Lander was suicidal enough to drive a cart into a rainforest.

So there Cain was, coat opened, sleeves rolled up, singing a tune to give him the strength of champions as he half-pulled, half-coerced three separate horses pulling their own goddamn carts towards where the rest of the expedition caravan was settled, and it was only by the luck of the draw that he didn’t end up running over a pink-themed Faerin lady who had just sprung out from the guild.

…yeah, he could use this.

“Apologies little lady (@Theria ),” Cain spoke, always elegant despite the circumstances. “Could you do me a favour and ask if there are any others skilled in the handling of these burdenbeasts to relieve them from my hands? Masterful as my music is, it appears that it has yet to truly bridge the gap between species.”

Rolls

Expertise Check
1d100 (82) + 50 = 132
Presence | Cain Darlite | 550C1

Current Contribution Count: 935
Play Sheet Link

 

[Kamala Graham]

130 / 130

Presently Unaffiliated

When she first heard of the recruitment, Kamala was busy at her farm in Pormont, tending to their crops, as per usual. One of her fellow farmers was the one who showed her the ad, waving it in the air one afternoon as the sun was already setting. It was no secret to her peers that Kamala had been curious about these factions, especially after her encounter with the Lion Arms, who had bribed her into attending their mini-get-together, only for her to end up fixing a leaky roof. That same bribe had helped them with their farm, so it wasn't that much of a loss, definitely a gain. "Oh, what's this? Interesting..."

Cut to today, with Kamala helping her peers out by looking over and making sure every preparation of theirs was in order. She may not be the brightest or strongest or fastest in any team she's ever been on, but Kamala always tried to do her best, and this was one of those times when her eyes were more useful than any of her other limbs. She was caught surprised by the shouting from elsewhere, and along with others in the area, stopped to check it out. When all was said and done, Kamala felt roused by the speech, more than excited to have her first expedition with the whistles and others (@Leyna, @Elias Stryker, @Samantha Yurei, @Ayna Nietzsche, @Pete Simpson). "This is so going to be fun! I can't wait to see what we find out, what we discover!"

Rolls

Expertise Check
1d100 (67) + 30 = 97
Awareness | Kamala Graham | 550C1

Current Contribution Count: (935+97) 1,032
Play Sheet Link

 

[Tetsunosuke]

160 / 160

Magical Institute of Theory Member - Freshman Researcher

Suddenly, a figure that looked like a samurai was seen flying within the airspace of The Embertorch. It then stopped, and then set itself to land towards a vacated area. As it landed, its size became much more evident, as it was actually more than 40 feet tall, towering above all people in the area. As it then landed safely, it then stood there motionless for a while, until a hatch on its back opened, and a figure, which by its stature looked like a faerin, flew from the hatch using a jetpack, carrying what looked like a large cylindrical cooler and a folding table.

As the faerin descended to the ground, he then set up the table, placed the "cooler" on it, and then moved back to the mech, and returning, each time with more tools. Definitely, the boy scout attire that the faerin wore fitted him well, as he seemed to be always ready for everything. Eventually, parts of a small furnace, an anvil, a tent, some chairs, and a chest of materials were hauled from within the mech, and the faerin started to assemble everything he hauled.

Eventually, the area became the location of a makeshift smithy, and a decent amount of smoke started pluming from the chimney of the small furnace. The faerin then shouted, "Come one, come all! This is the Roving Foundry, now accepting sharpening and making and fixing magitech tools! Anything you need for your adventure is now here within your reach!" and then started constructing essential magitech trinkets using his tools and the "cooler", which was actually a magitech-powered kiln designed so that he could cast some metals into various shapes.

Rolls

Mastery Check
1d100 (29) + 10 = 39
Magitech | Tetsunosuke | 550C1

Current Contribution Count: 1071
Play Sheet Link

 

[Alonso Thorlion]

160 / 160

Unaffiliated

The oversized Felis had rushed here to assist with the newest issue of the day. For a moment he grew far too comfortable with the current state of things and forgot some disaster was going to strike at any moment. After some thought, despite wanting a stress free life, he knew he still owed the Landers his assistance. On top of that, what was he going to do besides look at bills and clean? He already took a break from dealing with the next set of dumbasses who were unable to tell the different between a wireless connection and a USB port!

There was still a lot to do, and Alonso decided to help load things up and get resources from one point to another. And that required heavy lifting. So, what else was he going to do other than be the physical brute he was built to be? He squatted down, lifting two of the larger crates and hoisting them on his shoulders with a grunt. In a well paced jog he rushed over to one of the wagons that needed them and placed the crates on it before turning around and dashing off to another area in need of heavy lifting.

Somehow, even his immense girth was able to swiftly dart between the chaos going around. He was not even tired out once he managed a few more trips! He did not need assistance, but Alonso knew cooperation was needed. Overhearing the part about needing more time, the giant Felis rushed up to the clock square created by @Theria and rushed on through it for a small boost. "Thanks kid," he said with a nod, then darted off.

Rinse and repeat was the the go to plan. He even helped push and drag some of the wagons with his mighty strength! If anything, Alonso felt good so far.

Rolls

Expertise Check
1d100 (84) + 35 = 119

Fitness | Alonso Thorlion | 550C1

Current Contribution Count: 1,190
Play Sheet Link