Cardinal

«Teleport Gate»

Note: ◉ & ◉ signify whether or not mobs spawn in a location, and if a player can be killed there.
Orange Players are only hindered by the guards in established cities. They may still enter these "safe zones."

<<Floor 10>>

The 10th Floor of Aincrad appears to be located entirely underground, and is utterly devoid of sunlight.  Its seemingly endless network of caves and caverns is home to several unique features including: forests of giant glowing mushrooms, mazes of glowing crystals, and massive ravines with roaring waterfalls.  The floor has a distinct sense of beauty with the dim-blue lighting that comes from a wide variety of phosphorescent mosses, fungi and crystals.   Silence is among its most distinguishing characteristics, where the stillness of the air is suddenly shattered by distant screeches, and the dancing, disfigured forms of visitors’ own shadows playing tricks with them. Even the rivers cast off an eerie glow, their waters laced with assorted chemicals that can easily prove toxic and fatal to the unwary who drink from them.  Gaunt and skeletal creatures haunt the floor, the rarest and most dangerous among them locally referred to as ‘the Shadowed’.  Skeletal beasts and the animated remains of humanoids are most common.  Their Shadowed equivalents are little more than shades cast upon various surfaces who grow stronger in proximity to sources of interrupted light or outright darkness.  

The NPC inhabitants of this floor are the lingering spirits of dead souls still lamenting the loss of bright and vibrant lives.  They are the memories of lives long lost, still somehow anchored to the things, places and feelings that once made this a paradise.  Each one emanates a strong glow that grows brighter when their passions are stirred and dims as they lose hope or interest.  The brightness of each spirit stands in direct opposition to the Shadowed creatures that haunt the rest of the floor.  Whatever happened here was centered around the City of Yomi, which lingers like a giant, complex memento to a much better existence that is long since lost.  Players who visit this floor find themselves afflicted by an oppressive malaise that can quickly sour into full blown depression.  Some reports suggest that prolonged exposure can lead to dementia, or even outright insanity and the negative thoughts and emotions that pervade the entire floor relentlessly assault the minds and convictions of those who come to visit.  It is possible to interact with many of the spirits.  Some offer sage advice or information, but be wary.  Many have been driven mad by grief and loss and cling to existence only to fulfill some deep-seeded longing, that might range from finding a lost dolly to slaughtering anything that dares enter their home.

The entire floor is replete with mentions of <<Kagenomura>>.  Spirits show distaste to the name, but also remain fearful of it.  It is an apparent reference to a samurai lord who once wielded a blade that fumed with a heavy darkness. He was said to rule over a land of shadows, home to creatures of pure darkness, and that he was drawn to this floor by the ambitions of a local warrior obsessed with researching his tale and lore, eventually succumbing to madness in its pursuit. Players found and defeated Kagenomura long ago, stilling his terrifying blade. Despite the Samurai's death, the shadow realm has kept its hold on the rest of the floor with no sign of relinquishing its dominion. 

As an important note, tracking does not work on this floor.
 

Main Settlement:

<<Yomi>>

Yomi was once a large city heavily influenced by traditional Japanese culture and architecture. The buildings are still in surprisingly good shape, but only echoes of those who once lived here remain. The stillness of the air and lack of any markets blankets the city in near-constant and oppressive silence. Twisted and withered trees line abandoned streets, glowing with a subtle pink haze at all times and acting as the common source of lighting for the settlement.  The lanterns that still dot the streets offering only cold and dark despair.  Players can find shops here, but are unable to purchase any of the items on display. Any items they attempt to manipulate dissolve into spectral dust eerily akin to the shards cast off by dying mobs.  The town is populated by spirits whose spectral bodies provide a dim light-blue glow and casting a sorrowful aura about them.  

Two skeletal dragons protect the town, one chained to each of the heavy archways that mark the entry gates.  Any monsters that wander too close are instantly vaporized by a spray of cold and acid emanating from random points in the guardian’s bodies.  Being the only settlement and safezone for the floor, Yomi is the closest thing to a gathering place for players on the floor.  Inns and taverns can be found, but they offer no amenities beyond a cold bed and empty hearth.
 

Other Locations

◉ « Endless Caverns »

The entirety of the Tenth floor is taken up by the Endless Caverns. The expanse of ever-twisting caves and caverns are considered to be impossible to fully explore, in part because of the constant silent assault on the will and psyche of any who dare travel here.  Every nook and cranny reveals a new path, twisting and turning in three dimensions to confuse and confound. Terrain within the Endless Caverns is diverse, ranging from razor-sharp layers of shelf-like rock to slick fungal jungles, to mineral-encrusted, glistening pools of black, brackish water.  As one ventures out farther from Yomi, the ambient levels of light gradually fade while monsters and other denizens grow more nightmarish.  The closer players get to the Labyrinth, or the Void, the more their very perceptions of reality seem to become twisted in malevolent shadow.

◉ « Tartarus »

A massive prison-like fortress, long abandoned by the inhabitants of the floor. The area is swamped with hostile enemies and mired in roiling miasma that slows passage and impairs sight. Should players make their way into the fortress, they will find themselves in conflict with the shadows of the long-departed guards, relentlessly hunting escaping prisoners. The keep’s interior walls are lined with iron-barred cells, some still containing spirits driven mad by the horrors they endured in their final days, or suffer still at the hands of their jailors. Wails can be heard echoing through the stone walls from the Banshee that supposedly haunts the grounds. 

◉ « The Void »

At the farthest northern reaches of the floor, in the deepest depths and blackest darkness, there is a pit which has no bottom and leads nowhere.  Forty feet wide, its edge is marked by the decayed remains of an ancient serpent, perfectly arrayed around this strange wound in the world that some call an ouroboros.  Like the symbols of old, the serpent’s body circles back upon itself, devouring its own tail.  A feeling of eternal dread emanates from its center.

Glowing icy-blue flowers surround this portal, randomly dotting the area. Dubbed "Echo Flowers" by the players who discovered them, they are said to endlessly repeat the last sound to touch their petals. Whether it be the sound of fighting, speaking, or screaming; each flower continuously sings its last acquired sound, but always in a garbled, distorted manner that conveys a haunting quality the any living creature will inherently feel as ‘wrong’.  Most of the time, they merely scream, but wary travelers are sometimes treated to long lost bits of conversation from travelers exploring the area. On the rarest of occasions, in a perfect whisper a flower will ask, "Don't we all come from Darkness? Is that why we're so fond of seeing into it?" 

The closer the player gets to the edge of the void, the colder they feel, until the very blood in their veins and jelly in their eyes threatens to freeze and their breath falls like heavy fog from every hard fought exhalation.   Should a player actually venture into the void until they are engulfed by it, their heads will become filled with a cacophony of voices that overwhelm their senses.  Sometime later, they will awaken on a bed, back in Yomi with a dozen spirits gathered around them and gazinge at them frightfully with their soulless eyes. Many players speculate that some quest or item is out there that will reveal the way into the void.  For now, it remains a mystery to all. 

◉ « Stygian River »

The largest river in the entirety of the floor, its waters are brackish and highly acidic.  Skeletal monster are occasionally drawn to it and completely dissolve mere moments after making contact with its putrid foulness. Players that simply touch the river will find themselves taking blight damage as their avatar begins to disintegrate.  Despite the palpable hazards the Stygian River remains popular for its fabled ability to reveal one's innermost desires by gazing into its waters.  Some claim that the constant miasmic haze that hovers over it can materialize those desires, but that any attempt to make contact with it will cause it to dissolve. 

Transportation

There is no Transportation on the Tenth Floor.  Roads and paths emerging from Yomi taper off and are subsumed by the wilderness mere yards from the gates.

Common Mobs of Floor Ten

Field Boss of Floor Ten

« Floor Ten Labyrinth »

The Floor Ten Labyrinth is rather difficult to locate and access.  Instead of just finding an area,  players must instead find a peculiar black floating crystal that spawns rarely and only at the end of one of the floors deepest and most dangerous caverns. Making contact with this crystal in any way will cause the world to seem to melt around them, forcing them to enter a parallel world. Everything here is monochromatic, shifting between shades of black-and white.  The very reality of the world is distorted into a living nightmare.  Walls here are constantly shifting.  Whispers of dark desires fill the players’ minds, tempting them to give in to slumber. The player must travel through this Shadow World until they find the next black crystal and use it to return to the mortal plane of existence.  Their forms will, again, melt through the ground until the players find themselves back in their physical bodies, able to continue on with the Labyrinth. 

Quests:
<<SOTW: Leeching Nightmare>>
<<DHA: The Dragon Age Crusade>>

Boss: Paving the way to Floor 11

<<Floor 09>>

The 9th Floor of Aincrad is a craggy, lava-filled hellscape, covered in ash from the constant flow of lava and thick, low-hanging doomlike clouds that hover overhead like thick, angry blankets trying to smother everything below. The peaks of the local shattered tors spew great pillars of grey into the red-black sky and feeding it also with oppressive, magma-fed heat. The heat at Mount Kazan, the highest peak of the floor, is said to be overwhelming.  Tales tell that it is one of the hottest locations in all of Aincrad, reaching levels far beyond what a human being is able to withstand. The same stories claim that it is impossible to return from this place without scars, and that those who do are still so close to death that they are bedridden for days.  There is no greenery here.  What flora one might have existed has long-since been burned away or otherwise been starved of sunlight and precious water needed for its survival.  

NPC inhabitants of this floor are mostly charred and soot-covered humans and dwarves, all dark or copper-skinned from years of living in this area. They have adapted to the heat and wear only basic protective fabrics and leathers, covering as little as necessary in order to keep the searing heat at bay.  Water is more precious here than gold, and even those sources that exist are so tainted as to be toxic.  Hostile creatures here will not hesitate to gut you and drink your blood for its juices.  Bandits roam the wilderness in the guise of guides while prospectors turn to raiding their neighbors when desperation grows deep enough.  Rare resources abound, but so do those who will take any action to claim them.  Strangers are typically viewed with suspicion, or else considered marks ripe for plunder.  

Legends speak of a multi-headed creature that was once the primary source of the constant magma that permeates every corner of this floor.  Some believe that the creature emerged from its hidden lair randomly to raze the landscape and forge it anew with footsteps of molten lava.   Players came to know this vast creature as <<Grivas the Hydra>>, a many-headed drake that spewed fire as hot as the molten liquid the legends depicted.  They slew it, at great cost, and caused Mount Kazan’s great peak to be covered in a caul of cooled magma that remains there still.  Daring NPCs travelled to the top of the mountain and discovered that the volcano had become dormant.  The once-lethal site could now be visited with minimal threat.  Many have taken this as an opportunity to expand their exploits to the far reaches of the floor.  Small, new outposts and holds can now be found nestled across the floor. Since Mount Kazan's artificially imposed slumber, the overall heat of the floor has gradually moderated from that of a blazing inferno to simply hellish.  Golems and other rock-based creatures have risen in prominence, while their fiery kin have retreated to other, lesser bastions of heat and flame.

Main Settlement:

<<Yōgan Village>>

Yōgan Village can be found at the base of Mount Kazan and is one of few, relatively safe locations on the 9th Floor.  It was originally established as a mining settlement and remains an active trading hub for those who seek ores, smelted metals and the like.  The Mining Guild hires thugs and mercenaries to keep out the worst of the rabble, but life here is harsh.  Everyone here is said to be looking for something, whether it's the prospect of fortune or the glory of hunting some great elemental beast, or just to fade into anonymity.  No one settles here to raise their family, at least not by choice. 

A barrier of cooled magma and rock surrounded the village in the aftermath of the floor boss’ death, sheltering it from the nearest and most dangerous flows.  it also serves as natural protection against the floor's many roving monsters.  Buildings here are made of vast, hollowed out chunks of obsidian, a deep, black volcanic glass also harvested in the nearby grounds and used to create tools and weapons.  Despite endless smoothing and polishing from wear, the obsidian remains sharp and causes frequent injury to locals and visitors aside.  Yōgan refuses to shed its edge.  It is considered a local rite of passage to have cut yourself on its dwellings and bled upon the shard-strewn streets at least once.  It might also explain the odd preponderance of cobblers in such a small settlement.

The only teleporter on the entire floor is located on a white marble slab in the center of the settlement, upon which no soot or ash can seem to fall or be placed.  The stone is not native to this floor, and none of the NPCs are aware of its origins.

Sub-Settlements:

◉ « Knorilt Village » 

Knorilt Village is a smaller village located south of Yōgan, atop the inactive volcano Mount Hellion. Knorilt is home to a race of dwarves that harvest obsidian, and have build their homes out of lava rock and b yre-using the slag from their massive smelters. The village is notorious for reeking of sulfur, which seeps out of the ground and rocks. Knorilt lacks anything that isn't related to taverns, inns, gems and metalwork.   Most of those living here are employed by the Mining Guild and tensions often run high between the various competitive factions, each seeking to claim the next big find, or vying for promising territory for their next dig.  There is ample work to be found for those with strong backs, and even more so for those unencumbered by the trappings of morality.

Other Locations

◉ « Volcanic Flatlands »

Great expanses of basalt and other ash-covered igneous rock comprise most of the ninth floor. Due to the nature of the constantly moving and cooling lava flows, the terrain itself is always changing. A built up mound of cooled volcanic rock may prove to have been but a blister and have popped to become a small pool of magma overnight. Monsters such as the rock golems and lava elementals can be found roaming across the flatlands, yet vast stretches of the floor can also feel eerily silent and empty.   There is a primordial quality to the place, that also seems to resent intrusion.   No sooner will a group of savvy adventurers set up camp only to discover that they've done so over a nest of magma vipers, or wake after restless slumber to find their position spontaneously surrounded by a raging flow of liquid fire.

◉ « Mount Stylahm »

Mount Stylahm is the tallest volcano on the 9th Floor, towering over all of those below it. It is also aggressively active, regularly spewing lava from its peak that cools long before it reaches the base.  The volcano is home to a vast network of caves that run throughout its interior like a maze, leading all the way from its base and nearly reaching the apex. Some of the caverns are flooded with molten lava, and spontaneously shifting floods of the stuff are not uncommon. There are countless entrances into the cave network, but they change too frequently to be reliably mapped.  Adventurers favour the site because mobs and material spawn points seem to refresh much more frequently than normal.

◉ « The Profaned Peak »

The Profaned Peak is a flat-topped mountain, whose peak is covered in a lake of lava. Sitting in the middle of the lake is a large stone platform, along with a massive throne said to have been carved from an ancient meteor.  A lone, long, stone walkway connects the platform to the northern edge of the mountain peak, allowing players to traverse the vast span. A massive jeweled crown made from gold and silver sits atop the seat, its edged burnt black and reeking of unholy blight. There are no records as to their origins, but the local NPCs believe it to have been the final resting place of an ancient race's king, one whose entire population was wiped out by some user of vile, infernal flames.

◉ « Wrought-Iron Ruins »

To the west of Mount Kazan are a series of ruins notably composed of charred black iron, warped and pitted by the harshness of the environment.  This cursed area appears to be some sort of graveyard for restless, iron-clad soldiers whose armor has been seared to their undead flesh.  They can be seen wandering about the string of ruins, which look like fragments of some ancient wall or battlements.  Some claim that the site is an ancient battlefield. The path to these ruins is challenging to follow and seems to defy conventional mapping.  Even experienced guides seem to get lost trying to seek them out, and yet those travelling the floor come across them with disturbing regularity even when seeking to avoid them.

Transportation

While traversing the lava-filled floor in itself can be treacherous, one main trait is that the cooled lava flows have resulted in fairly level terrain, making it fairly easy to travel on foot. However, there are no real established forms of transportation for players on this floor. NPCs do have carts, but they are always in use for transporting various goods and resources.

Common Mobs of Floor Nine

Floor 8
<<Elvish Rivalries>>
Party Limit: 4 | 20+ Posts
Repeatable for standard thread rewards

Quest Rewards:

• 700 Experience Points
• 250 col
• Each player receives:
  • Elven Fire
    • A red stone granted by the queen of the elves. It contains the fire magic and is able to be applied to a weapon. 
    • (Consumable) Applies a T1 Burn Effect to a weapon for a single thread. This item has 3 charges and is destroyed on the third use. 
• Unlocks <<Elvish Treaties>> Quest

Requirements:

• Roleplay being summoned to meet Haela, the Queen of the Elves.
• Roleplay speaking with Queen Haela and Commander Arun.
• Defeat the Treant without letting the Gate take more than 500 DMG.
• Return to speak to Haela and roleplay the epilogue.
• Thread summary must clearly indicate whether the Treant was spared.

Summary:

While passing through the city of Ellesmera, the players encounter an elven page in full formal dress and royal livery.  He bows, curtly, then reports that the Queen Haela herself has requested an audience with them. A prompt suddenly appears before them, asking whether they wish to accept the quest, though no real details have yet been provided.

Upon acceptance, the page escorts the players directly to The Great Tree in the center of the town.  Around it is wrapped a grand residence, too humble to be called a palace, yet also too finely crafted to be dubbed a simple home.  It is a perfect, reflective blend of elven craftsmanship and architecture, exuding warmth and comfort while is awes all who set eyes upon it.  The page provides the players with admittance to the throne room, but refuses to enter himself, explaining that it only for those above his station.  The room's interior is fantastically appointed with polished mahogany floors, intricately carved furniture pieces that each look like they were made from a single piece of wood.  Elegant filigree adorns most surface, giving the appearance of living song dancing across every surface in the space.

The hall appears suited to multiple purposes with the Queen's throne sitting at the far end and a long planning table occupying the center of the room. Sprawled across the table is a map of the entire floor, including all known settlements and unique locations. As the players approach the Queen, who is sitting upon her throne bearing an air of consternation, they notice an armored elf carrying a spear standing at her side adorned in high-quality armor. The Queen herself appears to be rather young, despite being the oldest elf in Ellesmera. After a moment, she addresses the players in a soothing voice. 

"Apologies for disturbing such a beautiful day. I would never have planned to ask for assistance from a human, but we are short on capable fighters.  Too many of my soldiers have fallen or been gravely injured. This centuries-old war has taken its own toll on the elves of Ellesmera." She stands and gestures to the armored elf beside her. "Scouts report a pending attack from the treants, with a main force at least twenty strong. Commander Arun plans to take the rest of our forces to face them before they reach the city as to not bring harm to any of its citizens, but doing so would leave our walls and gates unprotected from attack." She turns to Commander Arun, who steps forward. 

"We request that you temporarily take on the watch duty for our gate. My intent is to ensure that none of our enemies reach it, but we require capable backup as a precaution. Decide quickly, our enemies shall soon be upon us. Of course, you shall be compensated for work even if you do just stand at the gate." 

After the players accept, Commander Arun shall take them to the gate and set off with a force fifty strong into the forest. 

The players shall stand in front of the gate for several minutes before they feel the ground begin to tremble. Emerging from the tree line, a large angry treant comes to face the players. It is their duty to protect the gate and defeat the enemy that lies before them. 

Outline: 

To successfully complete the quest, the players must defeat the Treant before it defeats them or destroys the gate. The destruction of the gate results in immediate failure. The gate itself has 500 HP and is treated as a target in this instance. Should the Player a player fail to protect the gate, immediately begin roleplaying the Failed Epilogue. 

NPCs:

<<Haela, Queen of the Elves>>
A millennia old elf that has served as Queen since the fall of her mother fifty years ago. Despite her age, she appears to be a young woman. She intends to be the ruler that ends the war, desiring peace as her legacy and for the duration of her reign.

<<Arun, Elf Commander>>
Pronounced Erin, this young commander is revered for his strength and tactical brilliance. He is known for his use of the Holy Spear of Flame, Gungnir which makes him unmatched in combat against the Treants. 

Enemies:

Treant
An eight meter tall giant of wood with a strength unmatched by any human. Its battle style focuses on using raw strength to slam into its opponents. It focuses not on hitting opponents directly as its punches cast powerful shockwaves that damage everything in the vicinity. 

HP: 450/450 | MIT: 175 | DMG: (See Shockwave Punch)

Abilities:

• Shockwave Punch | Every turn, the Treant shall use this attack spreading its damage between every single target in the vicinity. Deals 300 mitigatable damage spread between all players and the gate. This attack will not miss. For example: If there are two players taking this quest then both players and the gate shall take 100 damage per turn. 
• Burning Timber | Should the Treant be affected with a Burn ailment, its Mitigation shall become 0, its damage output will double, all Burn damage to it shall be doubled and the Mercy effect will no longer be an option. 
• Wooden Body | Treant is not affected by any DoT effects other than Burn and Blight. Treant is also immune to Stun attacks. 
• Mercy | Upon reaching 50 or less HP, the Treant will surrender and no longer attack unless the player attacks them again. If this option is chosen, begin the Mercy Ending.
   

Epilogue:

Floor 22
<<What We Fight For>>
Party Limit: 2 | 20+ Posts
Repeatable for standard thread rewards.

Quest Rewards: 

• 500 Experience Points
• Each player receives:
  • Glimpse of Before (Unique Vanity Item)
    • A small picture frame that houses a mirror. As the player gazes into it while focusing on a memory of the real world, the Cardinal system will interpret the data and present it visually in the mirror.

Requirements:

• Roleplay entering the Forest of Memories. 
• Find the Memory Chamber entrance.
• Outwit your Reflection by overcoming you character's main flaws.
• Roleplay entering the Memory Chamber, where they can reflect on their favorite memories and most glaring mistakes.
• The Players must have learned a lesson about themselves and their weaknesses by the quest's conclusion, which will be listed in the thread summary.

Summary:

Within the Forest of Memories, hazy anomalies have propagated which fill their viewers with a sense of familiarity and nostalgia. When the players travel deeper into the forest, they will discover a set of stairs that lead down into the ground. The stairs eventually level out into a dimly lit hallway with a mirror blocking their passage to whatever might lay beyond. Though seemingly impossible to maneuver past, those who manage it will reveal a simple stone chamber where the light from a solitary ball of flame in the center refracts from countless mirrors to illuminate its volume. Peering into the main mirror, they will catch glimpses of their past: things and people they love most, treasured memories, and agonizing mistakes and shortcomings. If the players have strong enough resolve to study these snippets from their past and use them to become better, they will be awarded with an item that harnesses the essence of the Memory Chamber in a more portable and mobile fashion.

Outline: 

The players must roleplaying entering the Forest of Memories, though it it up to them whether they do so to deliberately search for the Memory Chamber, or if they simply happen upon by accident.  This requires a LD roll as post actions (modifiers apply).  An LD result of 17+ is required to find the Memory Chamber.

Once faced with the mirror blocking the corridor, they will see a reflection of themselves as they were in the real world. Their <<Reflection>> will mirror their every move, applying equal pressure against the mirrors surface from the opposite direction to prevent entry. By exploiting one's own weaknesses as described by the flaws listed in their journal, they can outwit the <<Reflection>> and pass through the mirror barrier as though it were made of a reflective liquid as opposed to brittle glass. This is strictly a roleplaying exercise meant to help your character discover something about who they have become in SAO, compared to the person they were before.

Once inside the Memory Chamber, players may roleplay viewing any memory from the real world, be it good or bad. By the time they have left, they must have learned something. Refusing to reflect on their own shortcomings and vow to overcome them will mean that no picture frame will be awarded.
 

NPCs:

<<Reflection>>
This silent NPC will bar the player entry to the Memory Chamber by mimicking their actions, applying equal pressure against the mirror's membrane from the other side to prevent passage through brute force. Only by outsmarting it can the player find solace in what lay beyond.

Epilogue:

Floor 1
<<The Third Lesson>>
Party Limit: 4 | 20+ Posts
Prerequisite: Must have completed <The Second Lesson>>
Repeatable only if escorting someone who has never run the quest.
Escorts are exempt of the quest's requirements, may not offer any aid, and only earn standard thread rewards.

Quest Rewards:

• 500 Experience Points
• 500 Col
• Loot results for <<Big Bertha>>
• Each player receives:
  • Big Bertha Braciole
    • Unique Consumable (Meal) | A fishy entree that restores +2 additional EN each turn in combat for one thread.

Requirements:

• Must roleplay meeting <<Pete Larkin>>.
• Consume one consumable (possibly including one acquired in the previous two Lessons quests.)
• Defeat and loot <<Big Bertha>>
• Roleplay returning to <<Dorian>> in downtown Tolbana.

Summary:

You find the rugged old fisherman on the end of the dock. Like the two men before him, Pete sports a long white beard.  You can't help but think it likely that they must be related somehow? When you explain why you're there, Pete looses a deep, hearty belly-laugh. "Yer tellin' me Mayor Dorian's taken to sending players to do his dirty work? Seems wrong that he-"

Pete stops mid-sentence, distracted by a sudden shimmering just below the surface. "There she is!" he explodes, thrusting his fishing pole into your arms. "You take that, 'n' I'll grab my harpoon. I can't believe Big Bertha's finally reared her beautiful head! You got any of those potion things? We'll need all the help we can get to bring Bertha down."

Outline: 

After meeting up with <<Pete Larkin>>, each player (except for the escorts) must use at least one consumable prior to attempting to catch <<Big Bertha>>.

Attempting to catch <<Big Bertha>>  requires a post action to make the attempt.  On a CD roll of 6+, <<Big Bertha>> surfaces.  Combat begins on the next post.  Escorts cannot participate in this combat or expend any post actions to catch <<Big Bertha>>.

The player that defeats <Big Bertha>>  must roll and include the results of their loot roll for <<Big Bertha>> in the same post.  All players must agree on how the loot will be distributed.

 NPCs:

<<Pete Larkin>>
An old fisherman with years of experience, the aspiration of the biggest catch keeps him going.

<<Dorian White>>
The mayor of Tolbana. A pleasant enough man, though he seems a bit absent-minded, and he's always in a hurry.

Enemies:

<<Big Bertha>>

Big Bertha uses loot minimum for HP and DMG for the highest level player who is not an escort.

Abilities:

• En Garde! | Gains +2 Accuracy against a target that hit it within the same rotation.  <<Big Bertha>> is the sporting catch and always attacks last in the rotation.
   

Epilogue: 

Floor 1
<<The Second Lesson>>
Party Limit: 4 | 20+ Posts
Prerequisite: Must have completed <The First Lesson>>
Repeatable only if escorting someone who has never run the quest.
Escorts may not offer any aid, and only earn standard thread rewards.

Quest Rewards:

• 475 Experience Points
• 500 Col
• POTENTIAL REWARD | Based on their roleplaying choice, each player receives one of the following rewards:
  • Boarlet's Blood
    • Received if you pocketed the glass vial
    • Rare Potion | DMG II
  • Boar Jerky
    • Received if you examined the glass vial and defeated <<Mama Boar>>
    • T1 Perfect Consumable | DMG II | MIT I
• Each player may choose on of either:
  • Tealeaf Blade
    • T1 Uncommon Weapon of Choice | DMG I
  • Tealeaf Armor
    • T1 Uncommon Armor of Choice | MIT I
• Unlock <<The Third Lesson>> Quest. 

Requirements:

• Must roleplay interacting with Lyle.
• Defeat (3) boarlets*.
  • Boarlets' stats found below.
  • Boarlets can be spawned individually or as groups.
• (Option) Defeat <<Mama Boar>>*.
• Return the boar tusks to Lyle**.

*Note: If more than one player is taking the quest for the first time, multiply the required number of boarlets and mama boars by the number of first-time quest-takers.
**Note: The tusks mentioned in the summary have a 100% drop rate, and therefore do not require a roll to obtain.

Summary:

The steady clang of metal on metal greets you as you enter the dimly lit shop. A man stands behind the anvil, rhythmically striking a heavy hammer against his newest project. Like Zackariah, the man sports a long white beard, and is pushing seventy years old. Unlike Zackariah, there is no warmth or gentleness in the NPC's eyes. Instead, Lyle regards you with annoyance, bordering on disgust. "I'm busy," he states tersely.

As you attempt to explain the situation or introduce yourself, he will cut you off with a wave of his leathery hand. "I don't do anything without payment. Go kill a couple of those pesky boarlets for me, and bring back their tusks. They're pretty weak, so even you shouldn't have any trouble.  Do that, then I'll hear you out." 

Outline:

Go into the wilds surrounding Tolbana and kill 3 Boarlets per player (excluding escorts).

 After Killing Boarlets:
You deal the final blow against the third boarlet, and as the pixels rain down around you, you notice an unusual item nestled in the grass. The sun gleams off the edge of a tiny glass vial. Do you inspect the item, or simply pocket it and head back to Lyle's shop?

Pocket It:

Examine It:

NPCs:

<<Lyle Tealeaf>>
An old blacksmith. He's set in his ways, with a bit of a temper, and a tough exterior.
 

Enemies:

<<Boarlet>>
They've killed more players than all of the floor bosses combined. Don't let the cuteness deceive you.

HP: 5/5 | DMG: 3

<<Mama Boar>>
Hell hath no fury like a mama boar scorned.

HP: 60/60 | DMG: 15 | MIT: 5 | EVA: -1
 

Epilogue: 

Floor 1
<<The First Lesson>>
Party Limit: 4 | 20+ Posts
Repeatable only if escorting someone who has never run the quest.
Escorts may not offer any aid, and only earn standard thread rewards.

Quest Rewards:
Remember: these rewards are given to all participants completing the quest for the first time. They are in addition to the standard thread rewards. Be sure to track your potions somewhere (a spreadsheet, your journal, etc.).

• 450 Experience Points
• 500 Col
• 5 materials
• An Assortment of Potions:
  • (5) T1 Uncommon Health Potions: Heals 5% of Maximum HP.
  • (1) T1 Uncommon Damage Potion: +1 DMG for an entire thread.
  • (1) T1 Uncommon Overhealth Potion: Adds 5% of Maximum HP to users Maximum HP for a thread.
  • (1) T1 Health Potion, quality is based on Crafting Results.
• Unlock <<The Second Lesson>> Quest

Requirements:

• Must roleplay speaking to Dorian to receive the quest.
• Must roleplay interacting with Zackariah.
• Gather 5 materials
• Return to Zackariah with the materials.
• Craft a Healing Potion of Uncommon or greater quality.

Summary:

"You there! Stop, please!" A man approaches you with long, purposeful strides. "Pardon me, but I am in need of some assistance, and you appear quite capable." Giving the NPC your attention, he heaves a quick sigh, adjusting the monocle over his right eye. "My name is Dorian, and I am the mayor of this town. As part of those mayoral duties, I issued a small loan to a member of the community a few months ago. Well, the time to collect had come around and I-" Flustered, Dorian systematically runs his fingers over his perfect mustache. "You see, I've forgotten who it was I loaned the money to. Terribly embarrassing, I know, but I am a very busy man, and I cannot keep track of everything that happens. I'm sure you understand." With a wave of his hand, Dorian continues, "Should you be willing to track down the loan recipient for me, and collect the col, I would be eternally grateful. Just, maybe don't let anyone else know I forgot who the loan went to?"

Upon acceptance of the quest, Dorian nods. "Excellent, I knew I could count on you! You might start with Zackariah, the alchemist. He's often doing projects for the town, so it may have been him that borrowed the money."

As you enter Zackariah’s shop, you are met with shelves and shelves of colorful potions in various vials and jars. “Oh, hello," comes the distracted greeting from behind the counter. A man with a long, snow-white beard glances up from a bubbling cup of sweet-smelling purple liquid. "Are you here to order something? I’m sorry, but I am currently swamped with orders, and I’m running out of supplies.” Light comes into the man's dark eyes, a lightbulb going off to signify a brilliant idea. “Would you gather a few materials for me? Flowers, herbs, rare woods, whatever you can find outside the city walls. I promise I’ll help you fill your order as soon as you return. In fact, I would be willing to show you how to do it yourself.”

Outline:

After receiving your instructions from Dorian and Zackariah, head out into the wilds of Floor One and roleplay gathering the necessary components.

Gather (5) materials by making LD rolls.  Each rolls requires a post and succeeds on an LD of 11+. 

*Note: The LD: 11+ is for this quest only. Normally, gathering materials requires an LD of 15+.

Once you have collected the required materials, return to Zackariah's shop and make crafting rolls.  Zackariah will give the player as many materials as necessary until the player crafts a Healing Potion of Uncommon or higher quality. The player will no longer be able to craft after succeeding in crafting a potion. Also, players will not retain leftover materials gathered in the first part of the quest.  You will receive 5 materials as part of the quest rewards as recompense. Zackariah is patient and will not berate players for failing. A player can make as many attempts in one post as is necessary to successfully craft the potion using the following:

• Craft (1) Healing Potion of Uncommon or greater quality.
  • CD: 1-3 = Fail, try again | 4-6 = Uncommon Quality (Success) | 7-9 = Rare Quality (Success) | 10-12 = Perfect Quality (Success)

Note: If more than one player is taking the quest for the first time, each is responsible for collecting their own materials, and crafting their own potion.

 NPCs:

<<Dorian White>>
 A mayor of Tolbana. A pleasant enough man, though he seems a bit absent-minded, and he's always in a hurry.

<<Zackariah Stroll>>
An older gentleman, and expert alchemist. He is kind, intelligent, and speaks softly.

 Epilogue: 

Floor 1
<<The First Few Lessons>>
Party Limit: 4 | 20+ Posts

Welcome to the First Few Lessons quest line! If you're here, it's likely because you're a newcomer to the floating castle. If you have any questions at all, please do not hesitate to ask (post in the Discord, or create a support ticket). Please be sure to remember this important information:

• These quests can only be completed for quest rewards once. However, you may run them again if you're escorting someone who has never taken them before. You will only receive standard thread rewards for completing the quest after the first time.
• While these quests are structured in a way that introduces new players to the system, any player at any level may take them for quest rewards.
• The requirements for these quests are per person. Each person must meet the demands themselves. For example, if four people take the first quest together, the group must collect twenty materials - five from each person. While you may roleplay helping your companions, you may not mechanically offer any aid to reach those requirements.

Floor 8
<<Treant Treaties>>
Party Limit: 4 | 20+ Posts
Prerequisite: Must have completed <<Treant Rivalries>>
Repeatable for standard thread rewards.

Quest Rewards:

• 1,000 Experience Points
• 450 col

Requirements:

Mercy Route (Only available to those spared the Commander Arun)

Killer Route

Summary:

Mercy Route

Haela stands before the player(s), having earned her respect in sparing Arun after besting him in combat. "You show that you yourself care about the elven people by sparing one of our own lives; however, I am not sure if the Treants hold the same respect. They care about the forest, and the forest alone. They do not care for the elves even though we are inhabitants of the forest and aid its growth with our magic." Haela takes a step back, looking away as she ponders something for a moment. "If the Treants wish to gain my trust... they can start by returning my husband to me. They have him locked away for several hundred years in a prison unknown to me. If Ned is willing to return him to me, I understand that he is willing to end the war. The reason should be made clear to you soon enough." With that said, the new objective for the quest is to return to Baobab and speak to Ned.

As the player returns to Baobab and voices the Queen's demands, Ned shall remain silent for a moment. "I should have known this moment would come. It has been so long that I had almost forgotten. Lumen, the King of the Elves, and the strongest of them to ever live. While he isn't the one to rule the elves, his strength is only to be matched by my own when I was younger. I have sensed his power become dull while he has been locked away in his impenetrable prison; however, I am sure he has just entered a sleep state to conserve power. You would probably refer to it almost like hibernation," A branch from Ned lowers down, offering up a strange looking dagger. This dagger's hilt is made from wood and the blade itself doesn't appear to be made of metal.  "I have fashioned the key to be easily wieldable by own of your stature. Just South of this location you will find yourself in front of a wall of trees so thick that they can't be walked through. It serves as the gate to the prison. Strike the wall with this weapon and a small enough opening should be created for you to step inside."

Once the player finds the prison of trees, they will find them to be not the average tree, but covered with a bark as hard as steel. No matter what attempt to break, burn, or destroy the trees shall have no effect. However, upon the key being slashed into one of the trees, it shall make way, allowing enough room for a human to walk in between them. They will find the prison to be shrouded in complete darkness, the sun blocked out by the thick overhanging trees that prevent upward escape. As they step forward through the darkness, they will find a sudden light as small yellow orbs lift into the air like fireflies and bring a warm yellow light to the room. The prison is rather large, appearing to be several hundred meters in each direction. Large gashes can be found in a few of the trees, but nothing else major to note. In the very center of the room, floating just a foot above the ground stands a white-haired elf, a white sword resting in his right hand. His hair floats around him and the yellow orbs almost seem attracted to his very being, floating curiously around him. As players approach, the elf's eyes will open slightly and there will be little time for them to react before a sweep of light slashes the area where they stand. From here, players must attempt to speak some sense into the half-asleep elf or kill him. 

>> Those that calmed Lumen

Lumen hesitantly halts his attacks, taking a look at his opponents for the first time. "I... apologize. I am still... very tired. The last I remember... hunting Surtas and being ambushed by the king of Treants, Nedshanta Cor'Quessir, who thought I was preparing to cross No Man's Land into his territory." His half-closed eyes search the perimeter for a moment.  "How... have you come here? Even at full strength I was unable to break through." As the player mentions the situation of how they came to rescue himn, Lumen will shake his head. His voice seems to be more of a mumble instead of words.  "It won't matter... if Surtas isn't dead. It causes much of the death in No Man's Land. With all this time... I am sure it grew even stronger. I knew it would eventually become a threat when I seen a firefox with three tails. I... can't return home until I have completed my mission." 

Players shall follow Lumel to No Man's Land, finding that Lumel's name and health bar has joined the party. Upon arriving at No Man's Land, Lumel will once again draw his blade before closing his eyes. "It comes." Is all he says before the party is rushed by a six-foot tall firefox, with nine tails sprouting from its behind. "It cannot die until all of its tails have been taken out." 

As Surtas falls, Lumel will smile. "Good. No longer do I have to worry about the Forest becoming engulfed in flame. We may now return to my homeland. I hope it is just as I left it." The party returns to Ellesmera, to find the gate to the city in ruins, the large force of Treants waiting just outside. Many of them seem charred or are missing limbs. Inside of the gates lay many elven warriors who have healers tending to their wounds. A ceasefire seemed to have occurred and the fighting momentarily stopped. As the party approaches and the NPC's notice Lumel, many treants seem uncomfortable while many elves gasp with joy. Of course, the biggest reaction comes from Haela who had been tending to the wounded warriors. Tears streaming down her face, she rushes forward, clinging to the elf. "Lumel... I was worried I would never get to see you again! What they've done to you... it doesn't matter you are safe now." After a hug that lasts over a minute, Haela pulls back from Lumel to look at him. Lumel has a smile on his face, but it appears to be dazed. "It seems you kept yourself alive after all of this time by putting yourself to sleep." Haela lifts her hand to Lumel's face, touching his forehead. A faint green glow is seen before Lumel's eyes open the rest of the way. "It will take some time but you will be back to normal in no time my love." Haela finally turns her attention towards the party and says, "You have done me a service I can never repay. I will try to pay in some small amount to that debt by allowing treaties to begin taking place between myself and the Treants. I would be willing to allow them to live within Ellesmera." 

>> Those that killed Lumen

Lumen sinks to his knees, his weapon clattering to the ground. Defeated, he pixelates, becoming blue shards that float away with the wind. The prison becomes silent as the party's next objective is to return to Ellesmera. 

Upon return, the players find the gate to the city destroyed, the Treants sitting just outside. Just through the gates lay several wounded elves, being tended to by those wielding healing magic. As the party steps forward, they will notice Haela staring at them from across the way witha  confused expression. As she approaches, she asks but one question. "Where is Lumen? Was the Treant King not willing to give him up? If not, I am going to continue this war." As the party explains that he is dead, she will become taken aback for a moment. "Impossible... there is no way he can be dead! There has to be a mistake! Without him..." She never finishes her thoughts. 

"Leave here. Tell the Treant King he and his people can return to living here. I suppose the Elf tribe will be run into ruin in a thousand years. With my husband dead, none shall replace me on the throne. Our customs prevent me from marrying any other man, and there is no other way to decide the next ruler without bloodshed." 

Killer Route

"You will shortly regret what you have done here." She raises her shield hand where a light begins to emit. "I won't be going down easy. Not only do I wield spirit magic, within me is the strength of every queen before me. Our Royal power is passed down and can be drawn on by our descendants!" Haela waves her hand, and a deep fog begins to sweep the area. Within seconds the area is flooded with a thick fog, concealing the location of Haela. All that allows the player to know that she is still around is the fact that they are randomly bombarded with a spear of light energy and she hurls a magic attack at opponents. 

As Haela's health bar would drop to 0, it stops at 1. From there, it rises again back up to full and the fog in the area completely fades. "You can't defeat me as long as I've got my mind set on defeating you! Now, feel the power of the Queens of the past!" She raises her shield hand once more, another light beginning to emit. However, this time light rains down on the area and four aethereal figures appear before the party, armed to the teeth. The party will have to destroy these figures before being able to attack the queen again.

For a second time, Haela's health bar stops at 1 HP remaining before rising back up til full. "I don't understand. You've... defeated my own power and the power of the Queens before me." Tears of anger begin to stream down Haela's face. "WHY ARE YOU DOING THIS?" She wipes the tears from her eyes before steeling herself once more. "I guess... the only way to defeat a monster is to become one..." Haela thrusts her spear into the ground and closes her eyes. Raising both hands, a green aura begins to surround her. A wind begins to spew forward and the green aura slowly darkens until it is black. This happens to Haela's hair as well. Her eyes snap open and one of them has gone dark as well. "I will do everything in my power to defeat you. I've even converted my own energy into dark power to defeat you. Such is taboo for our people as the change is permanent, but I will do anything to protect my people." With that, Haela begins to attack again, fighting stronger than she had previously. 

As Haela stands defeated, her health will stop at 1 but will not rise again.  "I don't get it. I used everything I had and still lost. I couldn't protect my people." As she falls to her knees, the wall to the building will be broken as Needlethorn makes his way through. "It would seem I have missed much. The queen has already been defeated. This brings the elves into Checkmate and we have won the war." The treant prince seems rather amused. "You were a formidable opponent, Haela. However, if you do not surrender now, our forces will no hesitate to wipe the rest of the elves in this city. We have spared most Elves by only injuring them. Surrender the city and leave peacefully and no more blood shall be shed. You may make home somewhere else, but wherever it is you are forbidden from using magic or weapons and any elves found using them shall be executed. Do you understand and accept these terms?" Haela begins to shudder for a moment before nodding her head. "Excellent. Human, return to my father and let him know of our victory. Of course, as the king he must set everything into motion. You have done well and impressed me." 

Outline: 
Mercy Route

Killer Route

Epilogue:

Good Ending

Treant Victory Ending

Floor 8
<<Treant Rivalries>>
Party Limit: 4 | 20+ Posts
Repeatable for standard thread rewards.

Quest Rewards:

• 700 Experience Points
• 250 col
• Each player receives:
  • Blessing of Barkskin
    • A small piece of wood engraved with the blessing of the forest. Upon use makes the wearer's skin appear to be more like bark.
    • Increases Mitigation by 25 for 1 thread. This item has 3 charges and is destroyed on the third use. 
• Unlock the <<Treant Treatise>> Quest

Requirements:

• Roleplay being summoned to meet the Treant King, who, due to a name that is too difficult to pronounce, goes by <<Ned>>.
• Roleplay speaking with the Treant King, Ned, and the Prince Needlethorn.
• Sneak past or defeat the three Elven Guards who protect the entrance.
  • Player must successfully pass a stealth check from all guards who have a passive search rating of 13.
• Confront and defeat Arun, Commander of the Elves.

Summary:

While traveling in the Sacred Grove of Baobab, one of you hears the deep rumbling voice of the Treant King who resides in the center of the clearing. Looking up, the players find him peering back down at them, taking a moment to examine them before continuing. 

"Within you... I feel great resolve. I have lived in The Great Forest for quite a long time. Since then, I have been pushed from my proper place at my mother's side, and have since spent years watching my kin fall to the fiery magics wielded by the elves. This is a malfeasance I can tolerate no longer. They threaten the continuance of my people and the Forest. I can no longer sit idle." Ned looks upwards at a large group of treants that were gathering at the edge of the grove. 

"Soon, we shall launch our assault upon the elven city in an attempt to bring down the gate and lay bare the heart of their settlement. However, part of me fears that we shall not succeed. Their strength remains greater than ours, as their numbers always have been.   I doubt if we can even push to the gate. However... I believe it may be possible to distract their main force and leave their capital relatively unguarded. Perhaps you could slip in and force the queen into submission while her guard is away. I don't typically like resorting to such tactics, but we have few options remaining. If you get the chance I would like you to at least attempt to smooth things over peacefully." The ground shakes as another treant comes forward, his body covered in thick thorns. 

"We are prepared to move in, father. With a force this strong, we should be able to sweep aside anything that stands in our way." The seems pensive and hesitant before replying.

"Needlethorn, my son. Do not become overconfident and forget the threat that the elves pose. I fear you underestimate them. Move with caution. If they are willing, these humans shall assist you for this battle. They shall sneak in while you draw the elven defenders away. I hope you are able to push through and meet up with them." Prince Needlethorn gives the party a skeptical glance.

"You think mere humans can be of some worth? At least I don't have to worry about them being in the way." Needlethorn grunts dismissively before stepping away back to rejoin the main force of treants, giving the King a chance to speak his final instructions in peace.

"Forgive him. He is young and allows his power to go to his head. I suppose it is my fault for allowing these outbursts, but I am old and lack the zeal for further conflict. Five hundred years ago, I was able to best even the current Queen of the Elves' husband. Best of wishes to you, friend.  May the forest guide you down the right path." The players head out with the force a short time later.

About halfway through, Needlethorn shall show them down a path which will bring the player around to the other side of Ellesmera where they can begin their infiltration. 

The players should be able to just walk into the city without any trouble.  The elves do not recognize them as a threat, unless any in their number bears an orange icon. It doesn't take much to notice that the city is sparsely populated and under-defended.  Only three guards remain standing by the front entrance to the palace, curled around the massive trunk of The Great Tree. 

As a group, the players must decide whether to slip past the guards or defeat them. Should any player confront the guards they will enter a battle stance and demand that they leave the palace and city alike. If they do not oblige, the guards will attack. Whichever approach is taken, as the players enter the building, a bright flash of light will shoot into the sky,, like some sort of red flare. It immediately flushes any hidden player out of hiding and prevent them from re-initiating the skill for the next several minutes. If a player snuck in, they can close and lock the door behind them, preventing the three guards from attacking them. 

The players have little choice but to press on, into the palace.  A beautiful set of hand-carved wooden stairs leads up to the throne room. Seated upon it is the Elven monarch; the queen herself. She gazes over at the players before scolding them.

"It was foolish for you to come here. You have broken several laws of our city and now stand before me, the queen, armed and with hostile intent. I don't believe that you act on your own, but to think that the King of Treants is resorting to sending assassins? It is beneath him. Don't think even for a moment that I will be defeated so easily." As if on cue, a burst of light emanates from the roof of the palace and an elf falls through to the ground. As he lands, a wave of flame spreads thinly across the floor. Brandishing his spear, Gungnir, the elven commander glares at you before charging.

Outline: 

NPCs:

<<Ned, King of the Treants>>
A being said to have existed for over 10,000 years and presiding as the ruler of the Treants for the last few thousand. Standing at fifty feet tall, none are larger save for the Great Tree itself. His voice carries a deep wisdom and care for the forest as well as rumbling the ground with every word. 
 

<<Needlethorn, Prince of the Treants>>
Prince of the Treants and son to <<Ned>>, he is quite strong for his age. Only a bit over five-hundred years, his prickly personality has caused for his body to become covered in pointy thorns capable of skewering those who come too close to him. 

Enemies:

<<Elven Guard>>
<<Elven Guards>> typically are found roaming Ellesmera. They are quite agile and trained in the sword and low-leveled magic. They fight in the service of the queen and will lay down their life for her. 

HP: 150/150 | DMG: 50 | MIT: 50 | ACC: 2 | EVA: 2

Abilities:

• Restoration | When below 75 HP, the Elven Guard will use their post action to heal themselves for 50 HP. This ability has a 2 turn cooldown.

<<Arun, Commander of the Elves>>
One of the strongest Elves to roam the Great Forest and currently commander of the Elven army. He wields the magic spear, Gungnir, a weapon infused with the power of fire. In the eyes of the Treants, he is the most threatening figure in the army of the Elves.

HP: 450/450 | DMG: 125 | MIT: 100 | ACC: 2 | EVA: 3 | Burn 14 (2 turns on 9-10) | Battle Healing 30

Abilities:

• Firestorm | On a CD 10-12, Arun will leap up and throw his weapon into the center of the room instead of attacking normally, washing over all of his opponents with a flame attack that ignores mitigation and evasion.  This attack hits all party members automatically.
• Greater Restoration | When below 150 HP, Arun  will use his post action to heal himself for 150 HP. This ability has a 2 turn cooldown. 
• Mercy | The first time he is knocked below 50 HP his health bar will go no lower.  Arun will attempt to surrender and no longer attack, though the players may then press their attack to kill him. If this option is chosen, begin the Mercy Ending.
   

Epilogue:

Mercy Ending

Murder Ending

Floor 6
<<Calming the Soul>>
Solo Party | 20+ Posts
Repeatable for standard thread rewards

Quest Rewards:

• 2,000 Experience Points
• Unlock <<Meditation>> Extra Skill

Requirements:

• Meditate beneath the Waterfall of the Sage.
• Conquer all of your Inner Demons.
• Equipment and Battle-Ready Inventory are set upon declaration, and cannot be changed throughout the thread.  No access to your broader inventory is permitted.

Summary:

Nestled deep within the jungles of the sixth floor awaits a most sacred place. A former holy ground, abandoned by religious practitioners of ages past; the Waterfall of the Sage. It attracts nearby players like moths to a flame, filling those who arrive with an unbridled sense of serenity and relaxation. Even to the casual visitor, importance seems to precipitate upon the area, its pressure as unrelenting as it is palpable. People from even the furthest reaches of the floating castle Aincrad will campaign to the scene to sit atop the mossy stone settled before the waterfall, concentrating on its ebb and flow in the hopes of uncovering its secrets.

Rumors tell tales of tourists who have opened their eyes to a separate plane of existence. To some, it may appear to be a sprawling, endless white space devoid of matter. To others, an obsidian void that devours every last trace of light. Players have reported everything between, from fields of flowers to a literal rendition of Hell itself, depending upon the proclivities of the individual experiencing it. Despite the discrepancies in venues between players, there do seem to be consistent aspects that all of the experiences have shared.

Invasive whispers permeate the space, echoing the subject’s deepest and most secretive thoughts. A shadow - a featureless silhouette of a human being occupies the space, its shape and size mirroring the individual who finds themselves there. It will introduce the player to a series of doors as a disturbingly large, unsettlingly white smile stretches across what one could only assume to be its face. The doors will present themselves in a manner that holds significance to the player, their designs depicting colors, shapes, symbols, textures, or even smells that are designed to elicit an emotional response in accordance with their deepest held fears and anxieties.

The shadow will motion with its hand, a signal for the player to enter the doors at their own pace. Upon selecting a door, the player is faced with one of their Inner Demons, who must be vanquished before proceeding. Behind each door awaits increasingly powerful foes, the dread attached to each more substantial than the last. Each door features its own location, layout decided by the Inner Demon being fought. Those who found themselves unable to proceed suffered a jarring unraveling of the mind, their fears casting them out of the trance and back into reality, causing the quest to fail. 

The players who failed lost not only the rewards, but a piece of themselves. The players who succeeded left with something more; insight, courage, and the techniques to steady their fears and calm the turbulent tides of their minds.

Outline: 

No additional instructions.
 

NPCs

<<The Entity>>
A shadow figure that acts as the guide within the space of the quest. It will always adopt the shape of the subject, and always sport the unsettling smile once it has appeared. It is neither hostile, nor particularly helpful; more a silent observer than an active participant in the quest.

Enemies:

<<First Inner Demon>>
The first Inner Demon in a series against one’s greatest fears and anxieties. Its shape, form, and name will manifest in accordance with the trepidations of the viewer.

HP: ¼ of Player’s maximum HP
DMG: ¼ of Player’s Maximum Damage (Base Damage * Highest available Sword Art, including buffs/enhancements)
MIT: ¼ of Player’s Base Damage

<<Second Inner Demon>>

The second Inner Demon in a series against one’s greatest fears and anxieties. Its shape, form, and name will manifest in accordance with the trepidations of the viewer.

HP: ⅓ of Player’s maximum HP
DMG: ⅓ of Player’s Maximum Damage (Base Damage * Highest available Sword Art, including buffs/enhancements)
MIT: ⅓ of Player’s Base Damage

<<Third Inner Demon>>

The third Inner Demon in a series against one’s greatest fears and anxieties. Its shape, form, and name will manifest in accordance with the trepidations of the viewer.

HP: ½ of Player’s maximum HP
DMG: ½ of Player’s Maximum Damage (Base Damage * Highest available Sword Art, including buffs/enhancements)
MIT: ½ of Player’s Base Damage

<<Fourth Inner Demon>>

The fourth and final Inner Demon in a series against one’s greatest fears and anxieties. Its shape, form, and name will manifest in accordance with the trepidations of the viewer.

HP: ¾ of Player’s maximum HP
DMG: ¾ of Player’s Maximum Damage (Base Damage * Highest available Sword Art, including buffs/enhancements)
MIT: ¾ of Player’s Base Damage

Epilogue:

Floor 13
<<Cleansing the Corruption>>
Party Limit: 4 | 20+ Posts
Repeatable for standard thread rewards, quest col rewards and Horsemen drops.

Quest Rewards:

• 3,000 Experience Points
• 10,000 Col
• Each player receives:
  • Rune of Cain
    • A smooth stone rune inscribed with the Mark of Cain. Must be T2+ to use. 
    • Deals 50 Thorns DMG to anything that deals a critical hit against the user. Lasts for one thread. Ignores passive abilities that would otherwise negate this effect.
• POTENTIAL REWARD | Player that defeats War receives
  • Bloodcrystal of War
    • T2 Crystal: +4 DMG, -20*Player's Tier Mitigation
• POTENTIAL REWARD | Player that defeats Pestilence receives
  • Essence of Corruption
    • Adds a Blight effect to one weapon for one thread. (36 DMG for 2 turn on a BD:9-10)
• POTENTIAL REWARD | Player that defeats Famine receives
  • Song of Famine
    • T2 Debuff Song: Decreases a single targets ACC and EVA by 2 for four turns.
• POTENTIAL REWARD | Player that defeats Death receives
  • Death's Song
    • T2 Debuff Song: Target is unable to heal for the next two turns. Includes, Battle Healing. Can be removed by Purify. Doesn't affect Floor/Event Bosses.

Requirements:

• Quest must be undertaken with a party of four players.
• Roleplay accepting the quest from Miraak.
• Roleplay entering Demon's End
• Players must defeat the Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse, each player starting by facing off against their own foe
• Fights are undertaken concurrently, with each player facing one of the Horsemen. If a player defeats their Horseman early, they may assist another player until all Horsemen are defeated.
• Roleplay taming a Horseman’s mount.
• Roleplay riding their mount to the Heart of Corruption.
• Defeat ten Blightbound Monstrosities
• Roleplay Armageddon and the defeat of The Blight.

Summary:

Once a well known and beloved priest, the NPC, Miraak, found himself swayed by a fallen angel named Artamiel. Artamiel inspired Miraak with talk of a "perfect world," and persuaded the man to turn on all he had once known and believed. Using dark, forbidden magic, Miraak unleashed a corruption that consumed the entire floor. Though the players were able to draw Miraak back from the brink of insanity, and free him from Artamiel's influence, the corruption remains.

Now, players can find Miraak standing beside an inaccessible church in Angel's Point. When approached, he explains that the corruption is far too formidable for mere humans to vanquish. Rather, the Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse are the only beings with enough power to challenge The Blight itself. He encourages the players to enter <<Demon's End>>, and track down the four legendary riders. "I do not know what comes next," he confesses, "but only a combined effort by all four Horsemen can cleanse these lands, and finally bring an end to this nightmare."

Outline: 

After roleplaying meeting and accepting the quest from Miraak, the players must enter Demon's End, where they must challenge and defeat the Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse.  All four are fought at the same time, using the following special rules:

• Each player use a post action to declare which horseman they are challenging
• Normal hate rules are suspended.  Each horseman only attacks their challenger.
• Players can attack other horsemen after the one they challenged has been defeated.

When all four horsemen have been defeated, each player gains the following buffs, that last until removed, or the end of the thread, whichever occurs first:

• Apocalyptic (Player Passive) | As the new Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse, Players stats are adjusted to the following: HP 1500, DMG 30, ACC 4, EVA 4, MIT 175. Any consumables will not provide benefit past these points.
• Each player receives the additional buffs specific to the Horseman they challenged, losing any benefits from their own consumables while these buffs are in effect:
  • War:
    • Wrath | The Player that defeats War earns the right to mount Wrath, The Red Horse. Wrath’s Rider gains the War and Devil’s Smite abilities.
  • Pestilence:
    • Conquest | The Player that defeats Pestilence will earn the right to mount Conquest, the Black Horse. Conquest’s Rider gains the Pestilence and Call of Corruption abilities.
  • Famine:
    • Drought | The Player that defeats Famine earns the right to mount Drought, the White Horse. Drought’s Rider will gain the Devil’s Pierce and Hell Blast abilities.
  • Death:
    • Doom | The Player that defeats Death earns the right to mount Doom, the Pale Horse. Doom’s rider gains the Death and Devil’s Sweep abilities.

Each player must spend a post action assuming their Horseman's role by claiming their mount.  Their revised stats, including the new quest buffs, must be included in this post.

As newly-minted Horsemen of the Apocalypse, the players must then enter the Heart of Corruption and defeat ten Blightbound Monstrosities.  

Once the tenth Blightbound Monstrosity has been defeated, each player must spend one post action to trigger Armageddon, and roleplay The Blight's defeat.

 NPCs:

<<Miraak>>

Enemies:

<<War>>	<<Pestilence>>	<<Famine>>	<<Death>>
One of the Four Horsemen of Apocalypse. It is the living carnation of war and bloodshed. Its only purpose is to spread its violence on humanity. Its violent tendencies sometimes allow it to make multiple actions. It fights players with a Two-Handed sword as cold as night. Receives its own roll.	One of the Four Horsemen of Apocalypse. It is the living carnation of plague. Its only purpose is to spread disease and the corruption. It constantly lands status effects to all. It fights players with diseased arrows that it repeatedly uses to sprout arrows into its opponents chest.  Receives its own roll.	One of the Four Horsemen of Apocalypse. It is the living incarnation of starvation and scarcity. Its only purpose is to spread famine and starve out humanity. Its very aura seems to drain players of all additional help. It fights players with a spear as dark as night.  Receives its own roll.	One of the Four Horsemen of Apocalypse. It is the living carnation of Death. Its only purpose is wipe out humanity. Its very presence prevents the creation of life and healing. It fights players with a scythe as eerie as a crow. Receives its own roll.
HP: 1350 MIT: 75 DMG: 125 ACC: 3 EVA: 1	HP: 1500 MIT: 50 DMG: 150 ACC: 1 EVA: 3	HP: 900 MIT: 50 DMG: 150 ACC: 2 EVA: 2	HP: 700 MIT: 25 DMG: 125 Unmitigatable DMG ACC: 3 EVA: 2
War (Passive):  On a CD 10-12, Receives another Attack. Can only activate once per turn. This CD is determined on his first attack's roll.  Corruption (Passive): Will always deal at least 100 DMG after MIT.  Bloodlust(Passive): Gains an additional 20 DMG for ever 100 HP missing. Devils Smite - Will deal an extra 100 DMG on MD 9-10.  Wrath: The Player that defeats War earns the right to mount Wrath, The Red Horse. Wrath’s Rider gains the War and Devil’s Smite abilities.	Pestilence (Passive): On any landed hit, add a Blight effect dealing 24 DMG for the next three turns. These effects don't refresh but stack up to 3 effects in total. After reaching 3, it will refresh the oldest effect. Corruption (Passive): Will always deal at least 50 DMG after MIT. Plague (Passive): Enemy player suffers 36 DMG every turn. Call of Corruption: On CD 11-12,  will detonate any Blight effects on the player, dealing their full damage in a single turn. Disease: On MD 9-10, Deal 100 Extra DMG, and apply two Blight effects instead of one.  Conquest: The Player that defeats Pestilence will earn the right to mount Conquest, the Black Horse. Conquest’s Rider gains the Pestilence and Call of Corruption abilities.	Famine (Passive): Buffs are made Ineffective for this battle. Debuffs still work. Corruption (Passive): Will always deal at least 100 DMG after MIT. Devil's Pierce: On a MD 9-10, deals double damage.  Hell Blast: On a CD 10-12, Blasts a black wave of energy, hitting the enemy player for 200 Unmitigatable DMG. Drought: The Player that defeats Famine earns the right to mount Drought, the White Horse. Drought’s Rider will gain the Devil’s Pierce and Hell Blast abilities.	Death (Passive): After hitting an opponent, the opponents current HP becomes its Temporary Max HP until the battle is over.  Battle Killing (Passive): Players don't receive Battle Healing and take half of their Battle healing as DMG every turn. Emergency Recovery is ineffective. Devil's Sweep: On a MD 9-10, Death trips players, stunning them for 1 turn. Doom: The Player that defeats Death earns the right to mount Doom, the Pale Horse. Doom’s rider gains the Death and Devi’s Sweep abilities.
Last Hit Reward: "Bloodcrystal of War" T2 Crystal: +4 DMG, -20* Player's Tier Mitigation	Last Hit Reward: Essence of Corruption: Adds a Blight effect to a weapon for one thread. (36 DMG for 2 turn on a BD:9-10)	Last Hit Reward: "Song of Famine" T2 Debuff Song: Decreases a single targets ACC and EVA by 2 for Four turns.	Last Hit Reward: "Death's Song" T2 Debuff Song: Target is unable to heal for the next two turns. Includes, Battle Healing. Can be removed by Purify. Doesn't affect Floor/Event Bosses.

<<Blightbound Monstrosity>>
HP: 2000/2000 | DMG: 500 | ACC: 3 | EVA: 1

Abilities:

• Corruption (Passive) | Deals 25% of a Player’s Maximum Health every turn as damage unless they possess the <<Apocalyptic>> Buff.
• Consume | On a CD10+, attempt to consume the mount of the last player that dealt damage. That mount’s rider can still attack, but suffers a -1 ACC penalty. The Blightbound Monstrosity must suffer 500 DMG in a single turn or else the player’s Mount is consumed and they lose their <<Apocalyptic>> Buff.
• One Mind, One Body |  As fragments of The Blight, damaging enough Blightbound Monstrosities will have an adverse effect on the whole. Defeating 10 of these creatures will weaken The Blight sufficiently enough that players may purge the taint.
  • Armageddon |  After defeating 10 Blightbound Monstrosities, The Blight’s protection wanes. All Players must spend a post action to activate Armageddon. The Wrath of Heaven will rain down and smite The Blight, ending the quest (see Epilogue).

<<The Blight>>
An entity that exists only to consume and corrupt. A black, oozing mass of filth that spreads throughout the floor. If left unchecked, it will consume everything - even Castle Aincrad itself.

 <<Immortal Object>>

Epilogue: 

<<Floor 08>>

The eighth floor of Aincrad is covered with a vast forest sprouting from one side of the land to the other with very few areas not covered with trees. The landscape is primarily flat with some large hills that are similarly covered in forest.  It is also home to countless rivers and streams.  Wandering the woods feels like you are surrounded by a vast hall of wide wooden columns reaching high above your head to a nearly constant canopy of green.  Most of the trees are larger than Redwoods and stretch between 60 and 80 feet above the forest floor before the dense canopy prevents further view.  Nearly all are deciduous, though conifers are more common near the floor’s outer edges. The forest floor varies from bare patches or rich brown soil to carpets of ferns and moss, with rare smaller groves of trees where the canopy is thinner.  The entire floor seems to exist in a perpetual state of late spring or early summer.  Light filters through the sky of leaves, but never in overwhelming brightness.  Rain, strangely, only seems to fall at night, giving the feeling of an endlessly leaky roof dripping down in a thousand thousand places, rather than in its more familiar wind-driven form.  Glades, where the canopy opens to reveal a brilliant azure sky above, are exceedingly rare, and treated as sacred spaces by all of the floor’s residents.

Two major factions of NPCs dominate this floor: the Elves and Treants. The two neighboring tribes occupy areas at opposite ends of the Floor with years of bloodshed further separating the two. The Elves are more numerous, faster, and benefit from great affinity for magic. Their seat of power is at the base of the Great Tree in the city of Ellesmera. The Treants are much larger in stature, each easily standing up to 30 feet tall and renown for their strength and resilience.  Their home is focused around the sacred glade of Baobab.   Both factions have been at odds for centuries, though their conflict has grown worse in the years since the defeat of the floor boss and now threatens the peace and serenity of the entire forest.

The Elves have a saying: where there is creation, destruction shall surely follow. On the 8th Floor, it had a name and was known as an enemy to the forest and its inhabitants, a plague that threatened their woods.  Feared by both the Elves and the Treants, <<Kro the Ruined>> was a malevolent creature.  Standing over ten foot tall, this monster of wood and fire, this vile pestilence consumed everything it touched, ravaging it, or worse.  Victims of its touch were set alight by its accursed flames and driven to madness, then loosed upon the very woods they once treasured and protected.  The Treants blame the Elves’ use of fire magics for spawning the demon, whereas the Elves blame the Treants for the same by their constant draw on the magic that sustains the forest.  The floor boss was killed when players reached the floor in their quest to Aincrad’s pinnacle, but the feud between both factions continues to fester. 

Main Settlement:

<<Ellesmera>>

Ellesmera is the main settlement of the floor, and also the seat of the elven court.   The city stands in the midst of the forest overlooking a magnificent waterfall and the broad valley that opens below.  Its architecture is awe-inspiring, filled with splendid structures that are so  sculptural that they appear to have been grown rather than built.  Each is unique and graceful with swooping curves that mimic the lines of the landscape and foliage where they are nestled.  Everything here is built to gather water and reflect sunlight whether it be day or night.  It is said to be one of the greatest sights in Aincrad.

Hundreds of elves live in Ellesmera.  Each is as elegant and graceful, with a sense of ageless beauty that seems to defy the whims of time.  Most of the NPC residents claim to be over 200 years old.  There is also a notable absence of children in the city, especially compared to human settlements elsewhere in the game.  Elven children are a rare and treasured blessing, which is why their society seems to take the loss of each and every life so seriously.  Their war against the Treants has cost them much.  Only a small handful of children live in Ellesmera, and they are closely guarded.  The city is also protected by a tall palisade wall and watch towers made of parallel trees knitted together by the elves’ magic into an impressive barrier.

The city itself rests under the watchful eye of its queen, Haela, who is said to be nearing her millennium.  Her dwelling, a palatial residence by any standard, sits opposite The Great Tree in Ellesmera’s central square.  The Great Tree is regarded by all of the 8th Floor NPCs as the most important part of the forest, and is said to feed and sustain all of the floor’s woodlands and creatures with its life. It is also the subject of the ongoing strife between the Elves and Treants.  

Sub-Settlements:

◉ «Baobab»

Baobab can more accurately be described as a holy site than a settlement.  It is an accessible safe zone for all players located near the eastern edge of the floor.  Several dozen treants are present here at any given time, including their great king.  Most of them are disinterested in conversation, but a rare few might still be cajoled into speaking with a compelling player.  They have grown weary of war and the speed at which players seem to trounce through their lands.  There are no inns, shops or taverns in Baobab, though the soft mosses covering the ground throughout the glade is said to make a fine substitute for formal bedding with a blanket of warmth from the sun, and a quiet, peaceful atmosphere. It is one of the better places in Aincrad for those that just wish to bask in nature. The largest of the treants, their King, stands near the center of the clearing, watching over everything and waiting for the time that he may return to the mother tree, if he can ever wrest The Great Tree back from the elves. 

◉ «Florenthia» 

Florenthia is a place of refuge to those who wish to escape the forest’s war. While not nearly as elegant or refined as Ellesmera, the village is functional enough for its residents and considered a cosy stop-over for travellers.  Elves and treants alike live here in harmony working together to make their own way without the worries of their kins’ ancient feud. They have given up the pursuit of the Great Tree in exchange for peace and a lack of bloodshed. Most are pariahs or exiles for making this choice, and have been shunned by their respective races as disgraces.  They have peace and comfort, though, and remain positive while they wait out the conflict on the sidelines.  Florenthia’s greatest worry is flooding, which plagues their low-lying settlement after every major rainfall.  Visitors here often remark that the buildings always seem to look brand new, likely because their predecessors recently floated away. 

Other Locations 

◉ « Forest of the Great Tree »

All of the woodlands on the 8th Floor are said to have once been seeded and spread from a single sprout, which over time became the immense thing that now overshadows Ellesmera and is known as The Great Tree.  The entire forest is connected to it, and as it thrives or suffers, so does the fate of the woods.  Its reach extends to every corner of the floor, and somehow created a wide variety of flora that now thrive within its bounds.  Most of the forest consists of deciduous trees, though a few conifers can be found along the outer edges of the floor.  There is an abundance of wildlife in the woods, and elven hunters take care to garner only what they need for their survival and minimal trade.  Many monsters and field bosses are few, but the standard animals have been imbued with the forest’s strength.   They are far stronger than their typical kin on other floors and perfectly capable of taking on threats that would come to harm them.

◉ « No Man's Land »

There is a wide swath of forest, roughly halfway between Ellesmera and Baobab, that has been utterly devastated by the conflict between the two factions.  Each side blames the other, but here the raw destructive powers at their disposals are laid bare.  Nearly three hundred feet long, and a hundred feet wide, the area remains charred and void of life.  Nothing has grown back since the battle that occurred here just before the floor boss fell.  Firefoxes are said to scamper through the debris, still searching for snacks, but nothing else living willingly enters this smoky clearing, where flames never seem to die.

◉ « Graveyard of the Willowed »

North of Ellesmera sits a sepulcher where ashes are spread in memory of fallen elven warriors.  It is an odd custom that emerged due to the absence of bodies left to bury, and stand more as a field full of monuments than a proper graveyard.  Tall willow trees block out the sun and dozens of gravestones made out of various stained hardwoods have been etched with various elven glyphs and names.  A rare species of flower sprouts in the area and is said to hold the spirits of the fallen who are honored here. On the rarest of occasions, one will find a lone treant here looking onto the graves mournfully.  These remorseful soldiers spill forth their regrets in song for the actions that caused avoidable deaths.

Transportation

The elves are excellent and light-footed runners, and the treants too large and heavy to ride upon beasts or machines.  Neither would desecrate the forest floor by cladding it in stone to build a road.  Where necessary, goods are sometimes strapped to elk bound by magic to temporary service, but this is considered an imposition on the forest.

Common Mobs of Floor Eight

Field Boss of Floor Eight

« Floor Eight Labyrinth »

The labyrinth on Floor eight is similar in looks to the area of <<No Man's Land>>. The ground and trees have been scorched, leaving hardly anything living. Players who enter are forced to travel through a land of smoke and ruin in search of the boss room.  Scarce paths are forged out in the midst of still-burning trees. Getting through this labyrinth is all about speed, as those who aren't cautious can succumb to the thick poisonous smoke that blankets the area. Other than the poisonous smoke, there is one other key difference between No Man's Land and the labyrinth. The monsters. This area is filled to the brim with Great Bears, Great Tailed Deer, and Blazing Treants. However, these aren't the normal version of the monsters. The monsters here remain afflicted by the dead floor boss’ curse. All of these creatures burn constantly with a black flame and have been driven to madness.  They attack everything not wreathed in the same black flame as their soulless eyes serve as glassy mirrors that reflect only fire. These crazed beasts are not to be taken lightly, as they each have increased damage, speed, and all have intent to kill on sight. 

Sunlight in this area is almost completely obscured by thick, hazy smoke, however the light of the flames make it quite easy to see in the area. Every post players make in the labyrinth take 20 unmitigatable damage (or 10 if they have the Survival skill).  

 Quests:
<<Monkey King>>
<<Elvish Conflict>>
<<Treant Conflict>>
<<SOTW: Ferocious Foe>>
<<DHA: The Keeper Of Life & Death>>

Boss Fight: Paving the Way to 9

<<Floor 07>>

The seventh floor of Aincrad consists of a vast swaths of rocky and mountainous terrain, including several high peaks. Large portions of the floor are covered in coarse and hardy long grasses growing in thin patches of soil with rocky outcropping littering the landscape.  The topography is dynamic.  Slopes raise to almost sheer angles to create the massive cliffs. The higher mountain peaks are frequently covered in snow.  Small, gravel-strewn paths direct players from one location to the other, but large settlements are rare. Smaller settlements like hamlets and villages dot the lower slopes, but seldom offer the players anything more than a monster-free environment. The 7th Floor is notoriously exhausting to traverse because of the rough landscape, but it is also incredibly picturesque. Bandits and monsters also lurk about in great numbers.  The mountains are home to several different species of wildlife such as elk, moose, mule deer, and mountain goat. Predators such as wolves, bears, and bobcat find their hunting grounds around their bases and lower slopes.  The true threat on the floor comes from the aggressive elementally-aspected lizardmen tribes that lurk around every corner, ambushing players and NPCs alike.  Their origins remain a mystery, but they seek to actively drive players and NPCs away from all of the peaks on the floor, keeping them to the valleys.

The NPCs that reside on this floor are all hard-working humans with rugged features and strong work ethics. Each and every one of them can always be found busy, working to improve their own lives and those of the community where they reside. Life here is hard.  Each NPC also follows a specific trade, whether it be mining precious ore, working the livestock, crafting tools, or being a shop keep. None of them live in poverty and most seem content, but are also eminently practical people. From a young age, children's talents are assessed and then honed into which profession would be most suitable for them. Some find themselves to be the crafty merchant, a hunter, or even a guard to defend the settlements from monsters. 

It has always been held, among locals, that Nimbus' mountain was carved out by a great beast that sought to protect the humans. This gigantic creature created a home large enough for hundreds before moving away and entering a restful slumber, waiting until it would be needed once more.   It came as a great surprise, a few years ago, when a series of sudden, massive earthquakes began to randomly shake the entire floor.  They caused large rocks to fall on buildings within Nimbus' sanctuary cavern.  Many residents were convinced that they had somehow angered the Great Beast and began worshipping profusely.  Several players found themselves in the midst of this crisis and chose to take action.  Thanks to their efforts, the threat was swiftly ended. The Great Beast, more commonly known among players as Antharas the Unearthed, had begun to awaken from its slumber and was stirring the world in the process. The players hunted and killed the beast before it destroyed the settlement, as it became clear that the monster cared nothing for those who had taken shelter there and would wreak havoc upon its full awakening. Despite understanding that the Great Beast would have killed them, several local NPC's still give up offerings to it as thanks for creating their safe haven. 

Main Settlement:

<<Nimbus>>

Floor Seven's main settlement is known as "Nimbus."   It is a massive stone fortress built inside a crudely hallowed out mountain. The heavily guarded stone city is home to most of the floor's NPCs. Those gathered here are live contented lives surrounded by a canopy of rock that cradles them protectively.  All of the structures are constructed entirely of stone, either carved from the walls or built out from them.  Fresh water springs provide a steady and reliable source of water which is gathered in several ornate fountains throughout the town - a symbol to their importance.  A heavy security presence also keeps crime to a minimum.  Should they feel like it, players can occupy themselves by mining for ore, apprenticing under an NPC blacksmith, or even training with the local militia.  Green crystals provide the most common source of illumination, and can be found inside most local homes, shops and lining the streets and tunnels.  These green crystals, called Lumen, are harvested from the depths of nearby mines and are essential to Nimbus' survival.  Their light is feared by the seemingly endless hordes of lizardmen that infest most of Floor Seven. Most guards, travelers, and merchants keep a few on hand to ward the monsters off, and they are endemic to every aspect of local art and culture.  Every NPC invariably wears a charm or jewelry of some sort that somehow features the crystals.

Sub-Settlements:

◉ «Deepedge» 

Deepedge is the largest of the floor's settlements, outside of Nimbus. It is a village build on the steep incline of a mountainside, constructed from a mixture of stones of varying size, stained pine wood, and wattle and daub.  The entire town seems precariously perched on the edge of a deep gorge, ready to teeter of the edge without warning.  A pair of streams run along either side of the village, leading into a larger river that helps sustain the village's human inhabitants, supplemented by nearby pastures and hunting the abundant mountain goats that are common in the area. Their skins are common protection against the cold and chilling winds.  Lizardmen are the main and ever-present danger in the region.

Other Locations 

◉ « Rocky Plains »

Most of the floor's few valleys and lowlands are filled with grassland littered by loose stones and rock outcroppings. The terrain is scenic, though the constant, rolling hills can be wearying for some. The weather trends between two extremes. The sun is either shining in the most beautiful way, or a torrential storm is constantly buffeting players with rain and casting lightning down on the ground.  These storms appear suddenly.  Any NPCs in the area immediately take shelter the moment they appear, for they conceal another peril.  Great swarms of Storm Lizardmen often use these gales as cover and rain down from the sky to attack, then vanish just as quickly in their aftermath.  Several different forms of wildlife can be found here such as antelope, coyotes, owls, and bison. 

◉ « Mountain Ranges »

The entire floor is mountainous, but several large peaks dominate the terrain, towering over the rest of the landscape. They are littered with caves, dungeons, and monsters and are often traveled by players seeking adventure.  Little wildlife travels here, save the ever-present and innumerable mountain goats that are the lifeblood of survival for local inhabitants.  The cold climate in the upper reaches of each peak also makes them a perfect home for frost-lizardmen.  They have small lairs scattered throughout the area, and frequently wait in hiding behind rocks and in the snow for a foolish player or NPC to wander by. 

◉ «The Eye»

The Eye is the highest point of the floor, located atop the tallest mountain.  Players located the landmark while searching for potential Easter eggs, and were mildly disappointed by its absence.  It was later discovered that, at noon, a mighty griffin appears, challenging any players from the sky to fight and if the players manage to defeat it before the allotted time runs out, they will receive an egg. It is rumored that if a player collects the right eggs, they can access a secret quest on the seventh floor that is rich with rewards. 

◉ «The Temple of Three»

The Temple of Three is located on a path that leads up to one of the lesser peaks near the east end of the floor. Its architecture is reminiscent of Japanese temples, demonstrated by its use of shōji and tatami mats. Three stone statues are present in the main room of the temple, with inscriptions under each that read "Chansi", "Dharma", and "Vinaya" respectively. The third statue, Vinaya, has been destroyed, leaving only the pedestal remaining. The Keeper of the Temple is an elderly deaf man that never speaks. Supposedly there is a side-quest for those who manage to find and return the missing pieces of the statue that will reward them with a unique "cutscene". 

Transportation

There is no formal transportation system on the Seventh Floor, save minor trails and footpaths most commonly found in the lower hills and grasslands.  Rarer mountain paths lead up some of the mountain slopes, but they are rarely safe to travel.  A few daring players have attempted to domesticate wild mountain goats to use as mounts, but with mixed results.

Common Mobs of Floor Seven

Field Boss of Floor Seven

« Floor Seven Labyrinth »

The Floor Seven Labyrinth is found inside one of the peaks at the southern edge of the floor, where Antharas the Unearthed used to slumber.  The mountain somehow remains intact.  No one knows exactly how the Boss managed to enter and leave its own burrow. Players may enter the labyrinth from the top of the mountain, where they will find a large flat area with stone pillars scattered around. It was here that the labyrinth guardian sat and protected the entrance. Progress was made by travelling downward, deeper into the mountain.  The interior of the mountain is a death trap, split into three different areas.

The western area is alarmingly cold and slippery, decreasing players' EVA and ACC by 2, unless they have the Survival skill.  Any player that fails to roll a Natural LD of 3+ when posting will be frozen.  Players who use any item with a freeze enhancement have to roll a LD of 6+.  This area is also littered with Frost-Lizardmen.

The center of the mountain is littered with electrically charged crystals that fill the air with a powerful static. This static will paralyze any player that fails to roll a Natural LD of 3+ any time they are spending time in this area. Players using Heavy Armor have to Roll a LD of 6+. Storm-Lizardmen are known to hangout here, especially near the crystals.

The east side is horrendously hot and filled with areas with magma sitting in pools waiting for players to step into. Players in this area who lack the <<Survival>> skill have their base damage reduced by 2 and mitigation reduced by 18. Also, any players failing to roll a Natural LD of 3+ to avoid being burned suffer 10 DMG for the duration of 3 Posts. Players using the Burn enhancement have to roll a LD of 6+. Fire-Lizardmen enjoy soaking the warm magma while they wait for players to wander by. 

Players must make at least 3 out-of-combat posts in each area as they make their way through the mountain and fight four monsters from each area. No matter which path they chose, they will come to the same ending at the base of the mountain outside of the boss room. Should they venture into the boss room, they will find a large spacious empty room with cracks covering the sides of it as if something strained the mountain itself. An immortal object rests in the center of the room: an immense skeleton resembling that of a Tyrannosaurus Rex. 

Quests:
<<Case Of Wurms>>
<<AN: Unfinished Business>>
<<DHA: The King & The Conquerer>>

Boss Fight: Paving the way to 8

<<Floor 06>>

The sixth floor of the Aincradian castle embodies a large jungle with massive trees and vegetation. Most unsettled parts of the floor are absolutely covered in foliage with breaks for passage being extremely rare. The landscape is exhausting to traverse.  Hills and mountains dominate the landscape, clad in thousands of cacophonous waterfalls cascading ever downward into deep gorges below. The trees of the floor are notoriously and impossibly large, dwarfing even the greatest redwoods. Massive roots and branches create a labyrinth of nature, along with countless kudzu-covered ruins concealed around the floor. The vegetation is a perfect thriving habitat for many different species of animals and a perfect hunting ground for predators and plant-based monsters alike. 

The NPC inhabitants of the six floor are all human. These people call themselves Amazonians, and have learned to cope with life in the treacherous jungle. Each and every one of them is trained to be a skilled hunter and knows their hunting grounds intimately.  Cultural taboos keep the genders separate in their society.  The women live in the village of "Krycim", located on the western side of the floor, whereas the men live within the village of "Senimoh" in the far east.  Every year, on the first day of spring, twenty young men are sent from Senimoh to Krycim with nothing but a hunting knife. If they survive the journey, they may complete the "Ritual of Procreation". Afterwards, they return to their homeland with the boys born from the ritual's last cycle.   

A terrible blight once dwelled on this floor and swept through it regularly spreading misery and devastation. This foliage-based monstrosity spread its disease transforming plants such that they would cause a terrible disease the mind if consumed.  Many animals became rabid after is passing, and spread the taint if they were consumed themselves.  Tales are still told of humans succumbing to madness from the affliction.   Their deeds became a plague of nightmares upon their kin.   <<Oro the Blight>>, was eventually destroyed, at great costs, but many plants infected by his toxins still linger in the jungle to the spread his disease. Players seem to be immune to the worst of its effects, but can still succumb to sickness and extreme nausea for periods lasting hours, or even days.

Main Settlement:

<<Krycim>>

Krycim is a village of about a hundred women located on the western side of the floor. Situated next to a large waterfall, it is well-supplied by several sources of fresh water, including springs and streams. The local architecture consists of delicately handcrafted reed-like structures supported on bamboo frames.and well created. It blends perfects with the surrounding areas, some items being carved within trees themselves. The housing and buildings are made of hard stone, however some of it has eroded and does not hold its former glory. The amazons here are normally kind even though they are not outspoken. However, middle-aged to older amazons are not very pleasant with male players as they believe them being there is against tradition unless its time for the Ritual of Procreation. 

Sub-Settlements:

◉ « Senimoh »

<<Senimoh>> does not share the same beauty as Krycim as the eastern side of the floor does not hold the same beauty as the western. Senimoh is built right next to a swamp due to the fact that they use the swamp to catch larger food, even alligators. Due to this, many of the male Amazons wear crocodile skin as clothing for protection. Their houses are made of wood instead of stone, making them more insulated during winter times but lacking the same durability. The males eat far more meat than the women and much less plants. They normally hunt with spears crafted from wood and sharpened rocks. 

Other Locations:

◉ « Jungle Expanse»

A area of rich green foliage with trees winding through in very thick patterns. Within its mass, much wildlife will find its home. Birds and insects are found in great numbers. Snakes, Primates, and even predators such as tigers live within. To the East, one will find far more diseased Foliage type monsters and to the West more animals that have migrated to escape the disease. Caution should be exercised in any area of the jungle and nothing should be eaten in case the player end up diseased.  

◉ « Ruins of Tsjericanth »

The Ruins of Tsjericanth are a massive expanse of ruins, whose decayed buildings were made from a mixture of stone and clay that has mostly eroded from the constant rainfall. These ruins are filled with stone columns that are similar to the ones in Krycim, although they tell the story from the large snake beast's perspective and appear to have been constructed more recently than the ruins themselves. The detailed inscriptions claim that the Amazonian warriors attacked them unjustly and laid their sacred home to ruin. Nature has long since reclaimed the ruins, although there are still some ways inside the labyrinth-like ruined city. 

◉ « The Waterfall of the Sage »

A great Waterfall flowing in the Easternmost area of the Floor. The water is smooth-flowing and calming to even look at. In front of the Waterfall are several large smooth stones that players can sit on and look into the water. Despite the time of day, the Waterfall glows, giving off a warm light. No monsters spawn around it, and the water itself cleanses the diseased plants around it. While gazing into the Waterfall, players can enter the physical world of their mind as they search to quell the darkness within them. Any players who are currently mediating become immortal objects and do not perceive anything around them. If anyone were to try to touch someone while in the mediating state, they would pass through them. However, legend has that if a married player wearing their wedding ring were to try to touch their meditating partner, then they too could be taken to that place. 

Transportation

There is no transportation on the Sixth Floor.  The foliage is too dense and topography too steep for any consistent roads, paths or pack animals.

Common Mobs of Floor Six

Field Boss of Floor Six

« Floor Six Labyrinth »

At the southern end of the Floor, players will find the labyrinth waiting for them.  Almost all plants and creatures are here infected by Oro's lingering blight.  Anyone approaching the labyrinth will first notice a large area blanketed with trees intertwined together to make a massive, and seemingly impenetrable wall.  With effort, a passage can be found, often in the form of a difficult-to-reach gap.  Beyond the tree-palisade, players have effectively entered the labyrinth. Upon entry, vines appear and snatch players by their legs then drag them to a random area somewhere in the labyrinth, making it difficult to map its layout. A grove of dead trees can be found in the centre of the maze.  The doors to the Boss chamber can be found within.

Monsters inside the labyrinth are invariably stronger than those in the other areas of the floor, feeding upon the rich soil and abundant sunlight that seems to reach every corner. There are no animals inside.  Only the plant-based monsters exist here.  Killer vines sprawl everywhere, covered with sharp thorns that render them dangerous on attack and defense. Man-eating plants are now equipped with serrated blade-like teeth, hungry to bleed the juices from their victims. The greenery is also constantly grasping and constricting at anything that wanders near, seeking to restrain it while other predatory plants come to devour the catch.

 Quests:
<<The Gemini>>
<<Calming The Soul>>
<<DHA: Plagues & Decay>>

Boss Fight: The Path To Floor Seven (Cleared)

<<Floor 05>>

The fifth floor consists almost entirely of deserts and barren, sandy wastelands with sparse signs of settlement scattered here and there. What civilization does exist here always congregates near or around a source of water.  Spiked and broken rock formation and rubble stone litter the landscape.  Plant life is limited to scrub brush and cactuses due to the extreme heat. Sandstorms frequently rage across the sands, affecting those who venture out unprepared.  In this harsh wilderness, there are very few places to seek shelter from the suns blazing heat. A few caves can be found scattered about in gorges and canyons, but they are often small and shall, providing protection for only a few at a time.   They are also popular spawning and shelter sites for local wildlife and to be approached with caution.

NPCs throughout the floor are human.  Resources here are very limited and most live their life in abject poverty.  There are few legitimate merchants to be found, many having become crooks and con artists in order to survive.  Banditry and theft are the closest thing available to common employment, and their spoils often pass as a source of supply for local merchants' stalls.  The rest is bartered or spent at the towns' pubs, drinking away gripes and tales of misfortune. Despite the dour lot of most on this floor, one group remains driven and determined towards their goal. Acting under the guise of "The True People", a group that moves in secret to worship their god, Chardark.  In their pursuits, The True People have mastered their arts of deceit, thievery and swordplay, offering everything they obtain to  appease their Scorpion King. Blending in perfectly with other NPCs, their only distinguishing feature is a small scorpion tattoo branded on their left wrist though it is normally kept covered. 

<<Chardark the Scorpion King>> was once the floor boss here.  Hidden beneath the sands of the desert, he thrived in pure darkness and intense heat. Chardark, with his almost impenetrable armor and pincers that could snap steel right in half, terrorized the floor in its ancient years, and re-awoke just as the game began. Luring victims into his lair with treasures and bounties given to it by its followers, Chardark was a vile and malevolent entity that fed on greed and avarice.  The True People still exist, but have been lost and without purpose since their god's demise.

Main Settlement:

<<Fortaleza>>

One of the only settlements on the 5th floor, Fortaleza is surrounded by a sandstone brick wall meant to buffer against sandstorms and keep the wind and scouring dust from overwhelming the streets.  Two gates limit access, and guards patrol the top of the wall to prevent illicit entry.  Bribes are commonplace here, and serve to convince people to overlook or subvert the few existing rules.

Most of the town's structures are temporary, made up of little more than cloth and tapestries strewn between wooden poles, or just erected as awnings.  A few larger buildings are constructed out of polished sandstone and mud bricks, mortared together to withstand the harsh winds.  Roofs are often flat and framed in wood, with a clay tile or baked mud surface.   The town itself is little more than a market and bazar, full of shops, kiosks and the occasional tavern, but few residences.  There are only two inns, and patronage at one is said to guarantee forceful expulsion from any attempt to enter the other. 

Sub-Settlements:

◉ «Saharda» 

Built around a rare oasis, the town of Saharda is a hotspot for traders and merchants alike. Unlike the other towns and forts located on floor five, Saharda has no natural or man-made defense system, and simply just relies on the good will of people to keep it safe.  This is rarely enough.  Bandits and raiders often swoop down in numbers from the surrounding hills, hoping for some easy plunder.  More daring and solitary souls merely cling to the shadows and pilfer whatever they happen to be able to fit in their pockets.  

◉ «Clycama» 

The town of Clycama, located at the northernmost part of the floor, is the most remote outpost on the floor.  It sits on the very edge of Aincrad, looking out at the vast and endless skies beyond.  Located at the end of a deep sandstone canyon, the town was constructed where rare water flows collect and trickle over the edge of the world.  Intrepid NPCs constructed a dam here, long ago and at great cost, and created a small lake that provides enough sustenance for the town to survive.  Those glory days are long since past, however, and Clycama now barely stands in light of its crumbling state of disrepair.

Other Locations:

◉ «The Firefly Oasis»

Just west of Fortaleza lies the Firefly Oasis. Though much smaller than Saharda’s oasis, the Firefly Oasis is still a hotspot for travelers to visit. Common, relatively harmless desert wildlife can often be seen prowling around the area, such as foxes, meerkats, and armadillo.  In the late evening, fireflies gather in great swarms over the pool's crystal clear water.  Their lights bestow a most magnificent orange-yellow glow about the place that is said to be among the floor's few, rare romantic gems.

◉ «The Calmest Badlands»

Located just a kilometer or two away from Forteleza are the Calmest Badlands. Consisting of a slightly depressed series of flatlands separated by mysterious crystalline formations that create boundary-like fences between the different patches.  Viewed from afar and above, these patches are said to form some sort of strange pattern like some sort of grand game board played at by titans who abandoned their pastime long ago.  Desiccated winds blow through these lands, draining life-giving moisture away from any living creature foolish enough to wander here.  If there is anything worth finding in these desolate lands, no one has ever returned to tell of it.

◉ « El Paso del Diablo »

A long, narrow, and winding canyon path that links a series of campsites, rest points and outposts leading from Fortaleza to Saharda.  it passes around the mountains, clinging to valley floors.  Sandstorms and ever-shifting sands have a tendency to obscure or even swallow whole sections of the trail and travelers tell of perils worse than just the heat, sand and occasional rockslides along its entire course.  Monsters prey on those who wander through the pass, which is rife with blind turns, choke points and other perfect ambush sites.  Local NPCs consider it a rite of passage to have run and survived this gauntlet at least once, and many boast about the number of times they have made the trek.  

◉ « El Perdido »

El Perdido is a long and loosely defined section of floor five which occupies most of the wasteland areas to the west of Fortaleza.  Many foul creatures are said to live under the sands of this terrible and desolate terrain.  Scorching sun and heat bleach the seemingly endless sands of this all-consuming desert, separating the rest of the floor from its labyrinth. Terrors still stalk the desert here, preying upon any foolish enough to enter, or to be preyed upon by those with wit and heart enough to dare.  

Transportation

Stone markers identify loosely defined trails throughout the floor, the most notable of which is El Paso del Diablo.  Camels, horses and donkeys can be obtained from various sources around the floor, but struggle in areas of shifting sand and deep canyons.  Other than caravans setting themselves upon well-set routes, most people prefer to travel on foot.

Common Mobs of Floor Five

Field Boss of Floor Five

<< Floor Five Labyrinth >>

The fifth floor labyrinth lies beneath the blistering sands, its many entrances concealed and difficult to find. The floors and walls are made of hard sand stone. Most of the rooms are bare, save and except for monsters that dwell therein.  Advancement leads downward, deeper and deeper beneath the desert.  The air is stale, and heat oppressive despite being hidden away from the sun.  Each level of the labyrinth becomes consistently harder to pass with more false leads and dead ends present.  The entire place is also unlit, making it that much harder to explore.  Traps are sparse, save the mob-filled pit rooms.  

Downward passage is limited to sand pits where players must voluntarily allow themselves to be swallowed down into the depths.  Choosing the wrong pit leads to nests of nasty angry mobs in overwhelming numbers followed by marching back up concealed stairs leading back to the previous level.  Four levels must be passed before reaching the guardians room on the fifth and final level.  It stands empty now, save for an elevating platform that will return visitors back to the start of the labyrinth.

 Quests:
<<Arabian Nights: The First Of Many>>
<<Butcher In The Sands>>
<<Bloodstained Land>>
<<The Traveler>>
<<DHA: Of Greed And Avarice>>

Boss Fight: Azure Flames Ascending to F6

Floor 17
<<Challenge of Olympus: Cook>>

Quest Rewards:

• 500 Experience Points
• Hestia’s Cauldron | Crafting Tool | Meticulous: +1 CD when crafting in one’s workshop.

Requirements:

• Player must be at least a Rank 2 Cook.
• Roleplay the following:
  • Receiving an invitation to visit Olympus, on Floor 17.
  • Meeting a satyr guard, often acting as an escort for the player.
  • Speaking with Hestia, god of hearth and home
  • Initiating a challenge set out by Hestia.
  • Overcoming said challenge.
• Players are given reign to craft the challenge on their own accord. They are also welcome to alter Hestia's demeanor and appearance to better fit the story they want to tell.
• Players are encouraged to set a difficult challenge for their characters to overcome, be it through wit, strength or sheer willpower.
• Gods in these quests are NPCs solely for RP flavour. They are unable to engage in combat nor affect the setting of Aincrad in any way.

Summary:

Most players receive a message in their system mail at the ding of their profession reaching Rank 2. Sent on behalf of his pantheon by ‘Zeus’, players around Aincrad are invited to visit Olympus on Floor 17 to test their skills against the gods of their respective crafts themselves. Succeed and receive a limited edition trophy that’s guaranteed to boost your skills even further. Fail, and…

Well, Zeus was occasionally known to waste one’s time, now wasn’t he? 

The road to Olympus is guaranteed to be safe when undertaking this quest. A ‘Blessing of Olympus’ buff seems to repel most monsters away from the player, should they stick to the main road leading to the mountain. And as though that wasn’t enough, the gods have sent a satyr to lead them to their abode, ‘just in case’ the player got lost. Anyone even remotely versed in Greek mythology might be able to tell that it is Hera’s handiwork that lends them safe passage. Zeus isn’t the kind of entity to have taken precautions.

Each god’s challenge differs from player to player, so it is unlikely that any advance preparation would prove helpful in the upcoming trial. Hestia has a soft and caring disposition, speaking expressively with the player like an old friend or kind mother would. She is likely to initiate physical contact with the player -- platonic, of course, but will respect one’s boundaries should they request it. Her aim is always to make all who step through her temple doors welcome.

Her tests are about the player coming up with a recipe that might embody their spirit, balancing a delicacy’s flavors or making a feast to serve and please another being found on Olympus. Rarely would she request a player to create a dish technically challenging, though it has happened before. Hestia is unlikely to give away many hints with regards to quantities or ingredients -- however, her suggestions for such almost always lead the player on the right track. Players who successfully satisfy her wishes will receive one of her signature cauldrons, and the goddess’ pride besides.

Outline: 

This quest is strictly a roleplaying exercise.  There are no mandatory mechanics, save the general rules of the game.

NPCs:

<<Hestia>>
Soothing, gentle and tender are all words to describe the goddess of the hearth and home. Her appreciation lies in caring for the other -- an indifference or a turn of one’s nose at social connections would cause Hestia to turn distant and cold towards them.

Epilogue: 

Floor 17
<<Challenge of Olympus: Fisher>>

Quest Rewards:

• 500 Experience Points
• Amphitrite’s Net | Crafting Tool | Conscientious: +1 CD when fishing.

Requirements:

• Player must be at least a Rank 2 Fisher.
• Roleplay the following:
  • Receiving an invitation to visit Olympus, on Floor 17.
  • Meeting a nymph who will typically act as an escort for the player.
  • Speaking with Amphitrite, goddess of the sea and safe voyages.
  • Initiating a challenge set out by Amphitrite.
  • Overcoming said challenge.
• Players are given reign to craft the challenge on their own accord. They are also welcome to alter Amphitrite's demeanor and appearance to better fit the story they want to tell.
• Players are encouraged to set a difficult challenge for their characters to overcome, be it through wit, strength or sheer willpower.
• Gods in these quests are NPCs solely for RP flavour. They are unable to engage in combat nor affect the setting of Aincrad in any way.

Summary:

Players who have been keen on their gathering profession will have received a message from one familiar name of the Greek pantheon. Unlike the demeanor of his older brother, Poseidon extends a lengthy, formal offer inviting recipients to visit a private property under his name. ‘It is a domain kept pristine of our own accord’, the god writes, and he expects it to be treated with the same respect he offers in his letter. The cause of the players’ visit is to partake in the Challenge of Olympus.

Upon reaching Floor Seventeen, challengers are anointed with a ‘Blessing of Olympus’ buff and assigned a nymph escort that will whisk them away from the mountain leading to the sea gods’ main base of operations. To the coast they guide the player, and onto a rowboat. The nymphs will ferry them personally out to sea -- and no matter what happens, the player will always be ensured safe passage across the waves when embarking on this quest. A clustering of clouds later, they arrive at a hidden isle; the Land of Hesperides, a bountiful and serene outpost filled with flora, fish and mythical attendants.

Their guide will lead them to one of two divinities, one being the author of their letter whom they could expect to rule over their skills in judgement. However, it is his better half who appears before them instead. Amphitrite, a regal and benevolent goddess has been said to better suit leading a new generation of fishers into respecting the fish and the sea. With patience and compassion, she is there every step of the way to watch over her challenger’s actions, and correct them when she believes there might be something they could do better.

Her task is likely to be games of catch and release. Sometimes, she wishes to see some of her favorite subjects once more, and turns her challenges into a trial of finding and seeking them out. Once she believes that the player is ready to learn more about different fishing methods, she proceeds to educate them on the subject. For their perseverance and warmth shown to aquatic life, she will impart onto the player a net made out of rubber, deemed unlikely to harm their future catches.

Outline: 

This quest is strictly a roleplaying exercise.  There are no mandatory mechanics, save the general rules of the game.

NPCs:

<<Amphitrite>>
An amiable and gracious spirit, Amphitrite is keen on seeking better treatment for her subjects of fish and innocent water creatures alike. There is nothing she despises more than lack of compassion for others, and players may experience her ire should they hold such an attitude. 

Epilogue: 

Floor 17
<<Challenge of Olympus: Forager>>

Quest Rewards:

• 500 Experience Points
• Demeter’s Cornucopia | Crafting Tool | Bountiful: +1 CD when using Foraging skill.

Requirements:

• Player must be at least a Rank 2 Forager.
• Roleplay the following:
  • Receiving an invitation to visit Olympus, on Floor 17.
  • Meeting a nymph, who acts as an escort for the player.
  • Speaking with Demeter, goddess of harvest and agriculture.
  • Initiating a challenge set out by Demeter.
  • Overcoming said challenge.
• Players are given reign to craft the challenge on their own accord. They are also welcome to alter Demeter's demeanor and appearance to better fit the story they want to tell.
• Players are encouraged to set a difficult challenge for their characters to overcome, be it through wit, strength or sheer willpower.
• Gods in these quests are NPCs solely for RP flavour. They are unable to engage in combat nor affect the setting of Aincrad in any way.

Summary:

Players who have been keen on their Foraging profession will receive a message from a familiar name of the Greek pantheon. Unlike the demeanor of his older brother, Poseidon extends a lengthy, formal offer inviting recipients to visit a private property under his name. ‘It is a domain kept pristine of our own accord’, the god writes, and he expects it to be treated with the same respect he offers in his letter. The cause of the players’ visit is to partake in the Challenge of Olympus.

Upon reaching Floor Seventeen, challengers are anointed with a ‘Blessing of Olympus’ buff and assigned a nymph escort that will whisk them away from the mountain leading to the sea god's main base of operations. To the coast they guide the player, and onto a rowboat. The nymphs will ferry them personally out to sea -- and no matter what happens, the player will always be ensured safe passage across the waves when embarking on this quest. A clustering of clouds later, they arrive at a hidden isle; the Land of Hesperides, a bountiful and serene outpost filled with flora, fish and mythical attendants.

Their guide will lead them to Demeter, who greets them at a grove.  The woman is somewhat stern, her focus set on the player’s would-be task. Her goal is to educate the player on not altering the environment around them as they go about their material search. Sometimes, they are tasked to gather for a divine ally or the creatures of the wild. Other times, the trial will test the player’s perception and efficiency, or Demeter will enroll the player to tend to the emerald isle.

Her strictness fades only after the day’s work is complete.  Then, and only then, will she reveal the slightest hint of care towards the player, ensuring they are not too worn out by the obstacles she set before them. When all is said and done, should the player’s results please her, Demeter will bestow upon them a cornucopia of her personal fashion, one capable of storing multiple materials at once without overflowing. 

Outline: 

This quest is strictly a roleplaying exercise.  There are no mandatory mechanics, save the general rules of the game.

NPCs:

<<Demeter>>
Demeter is the exemplar for the words ‘distinguished’ and ‘dignified’. Only around her most trusted inner circle will her guard drop and her concern for nature and crops show -- until then, she lets no signs of weakness slip through her façade.

Epilogue: 

Floor 17
<<Challenge of Olympus: Appraiser>>

Quest Rewards:

• 500 Experience Points
• Hermes’ Scale | Crafting Tool | Methodical: +1 CD when identifying items in one’s shop.

Requirements:

• Player must be at least a Rank 2 Appraiser.
• Roleplay the following:
  • Receiving an invitation to visit Olympus, on Floor 17.
  • Meeting Hermes, messenger of the gods.
  • Initiating a challenge set out by Hermes.
  • Overcoming said challenge.
• Players are given reign to craft the challenge on their own accord. They are also welcome to alter Hermes's demeanor and appearance to better fit the story they want to tell.
• Players are encouraged to set a difficult challenge for their characters to overcome, be it through wit, strength or sheer willpower.
• Gods in these quests are NPCs solely for RP flavor. They are unable to engage in combat nor affect the setting of Aincrad in any way.

Summary:

Most players receive a message in their system mail at the ding of their profession reaching Rank 2. Sent on behalf of his pantheon by ‘Zeus’, players around Aincrad are invited to visit Olympus on Floor 17 to test their skills against the gods of their respective crafts themselves. Succeed and receive a limited edition trophy that’s guaranteed to boost your skills even further. Fail, and…

Well, Zeus was occasionally known to waste one’s time, now wasn’t he? 

The road to Olympus is guaranteed to be safe when undertaking this quest. A ‘Blessing of Olympus’ buff seems to repel most monsters away from the player, should they stick to the main road leading to the mountain. And as though that wasn’t enough, the gods have sent a satyr to lead them to their abode, ‘just in case’ the player got lost. Anyone even remotely versed in Greek mythology might be able to tell that it is Hera’s handiwork that lends them safe passage. Zeus isn’t the kind of entity to have taken precautions.

Most gods stay in their temples while awaiting their challengers, but Hermes is one not to rely on his satyr servants. He relates much with players in regards to his own endless duties, and has taken a bit of time off to tend to a subsection of mortals and impart his own knowledge and gifts; if they deserve, of course. 

Audacious and ambitious, Hermes will often meet and escort players to Olympus himself, where he imposes his trials upon them with little warning. No amount of preparation is likely to aid the player against his divine whims, but the herald welcomes them to try.

Sometimes he splits his daily tasks with his subject.  Other times he’ll focus on business and start a some convoluted scheme to bamboozle the denizens of Olympus. His offers are nothing short of trickery -- but of course, the player is on his side now. They carry immunity from Zeus’ judgements in executing Hermes' pranks. As part of his façade of prestige, he throws in a few genuine tests of guile and economic wherewithal, or some random test of one’s insights into an item’s value in the game. In whatever way the player manages to overcome his challenges, or if the god grows tired and bored of his own charade, he’ll award them a miniature version of his scales for display.

As a merchant, the player owns a shop, don’t they?  Every shop should have a set of scales.

Outline: 

This quest is strictly a roleplaying exercise.  There are no mandatory mechanics, save the general rules of the game.

NPCs:

<<Hermes>>
A high-strung entity. He speaks just as fast as his winged boots race. His bounds and leaps in thinking and trickery are sure to lead the player in circles, though the herald is often seen frustrated when his ideas don’t get through to others.

Epilogue: 

Floor 17
<<Challenge of Olympus: Performer>>

Quest Rewards:

• 500 Experience Points
• Apollo’s Metronome | Crafting Tool | Meticulous: +1 CD when crafting in one’s workshop.

Requirements:

• Quest undertaker must be at least a Rank 2 Performer.
• Roleplay the following:
  • Receiving an invitation to visit Olympus, on Floor 17.
  • Meeting a satyr guard, often acting as an escort for the player.
  • Speaking with Apollo, god of music and medicine.
  • Initiating a challenge set out by Apollo.
  • Overcoming said challenge.
• Players are given reign to craft the challenge on their own accord. They are also welcome to alter Apollo's demeanor and appearance to better fit the story they want to tell.
• Players are encouraged to set a difficult challenge for their characters to overcome, be it through wit, strength or sheer willpower.
• Gods in these quests are NPCs solely for RP flavour. They are unable to engage in combat nor affect the setting of Aincrad in any way.

Summary:

Most players receive a message in their system mail at the ding of their profession reaching Rank 2. Sent on behalf of his pantheon by ‘Zeus’, players around Aincrad are invited to visit Olympus on Floor 17 to test their skills against the gods of their respective crafts themselves. Succeed and receive a limited edition trophy that’s guaranteed to boost your skills even further. Fail, and…

Well, Zeus was occasionally known to waste one’s time, now wasn’t he? 

The road to Olympus is guaranteed to be safe when undertaking this quest. A ‘Blessing of Olympus’ buff seems to repel most monsters away from the player, should they stick to the main road leading to the mountain. And as though that wasn’t enough, the gods have sent a satyr to lead them to their abode, ‘just in case’ the player got lost. Anyone even remotely versed in Greek mythology might be able to tell that it is Hera’s handiwork that lends them safe passage. Zeus isn’t the kind of entity to have taken precautions.

Strangely, Apollo’s challenges are often intricately refined affairs.  The god is classy and sophisticated, so any attempts to sharpen one’s image and performances before they meet him is duly appreciated. However, a perfect recital will not always guarantee one’s success in his evaluations. The key elements he seeks in an artist often go unsaid.  Apollo is unlikely to reveal his secrets or direct expectations to the player.

His tests are often ritualistic and bizarre, laced with layers of arcane intricacies.  Apollo assumes the role of the strict music teacher, meticulously monitoring the player's method and execution while left to decipher whatever paradoxical madness he has cast upon them. Some have reported the god asking the performer to simply interpret a genre of music. Others claim that he speaks like a raving lunatic, asking the artist to generate confounding noise or to manipulate their efforts with the excessive abuse and multi-layering of recording crystals. The lucky few to have discovered the method behind his madness reported receiving a golden metronome from the god himself, alongside his praise and respect at having endured a long and soul-shattering ordeal.

Outline: 

This quest is strictly a roleplaying exercise.  There are no mandatory mechanics, save the general rules of the game.

NPCs:

<<Apollo>>
Stern, strict and closed off, this man seems nothing like the radiant sun of one’s day. He rarely speaks on his emotions and points of his satisfaction -- speak of love and love lost, however, and his demeanor might slip through. Just a little.

Epilogue: 

Floor 17
<<Challenge of Olympus: Alchemist>>

Quest Rewards:

• 500 Experience Points
• Dionysus’ Decanter | Crafting Tool | Meticulous: +1 CD when crafting in one’s workshop.

Requirements:

• Player must be at least a Rank 2 Alchemist.
• Roleplay the following:
  • Receiving an invitation to visit Olympus, on Floor 17.
  • Meeting a satyr guard, often acting as an escort for the player.
  • Speaking with Dionysus, god of revelry and wine.
  • Initiating a challenge set out by Dionysus.
  • Overcoming said challenge.
• Players are given reign to craft the challenge on their own accord. They are also welcome to alter Dionysus's demeanor and appearance to better fit the story they want to tell.
• Players are encouraged to set a difficult challenge for their characters to overcome, be it through wit, strength or sheer willpower.
• Gods in these quests are NPCs solely for RP flavor. They are unable to engage in combat nor affect the setting of Aincrad in any way.

Summary:

Most players receive a message in their system mail at the ding of their profession reaching Rank 2. Sent on behalf of his pantheon by ‘Zeus’, players around Aincrad are invited to visit Olympus on Floor 17 to test their skills against the gods of their respective crafts themselves. Succeed and receive a limited edition trophy that’s guaranteed to boost your skills even further. Fail, and…

Well, Zeus was occasionally known to waste one’s time, now wasn’t he? 

The road to Olympus is guaranteed to be safe when undertaking this quest. A ‘Blessing of Olympus’ buff seems to repel most monsters away from the player, should they stick to the main road leading to the mountain. And as though that wasn’t enough, the gods have sent a satyr to lead them to their abode, ‘just in case’ the player got lost. Anyone even remotely versed in Greek mythology might be able to tell that it is Hera’s handiwork that lends them safe passage. Zeus isn’t the kind of entity to have taken precautions.

Each god’s challenge differs from player to player, so rarely would one’s preparation lend them aid in the upcoming trial. Anyone who steps into Dionysus’ chambers as a guest is almost always offered a goblet filled with sweet-smelling something -- the closest hint one could get to tasting ambrosia, though the drinks will never intoxicate the player. The god is friendly and welcoming, most certainly a smooth talker with a luxurious voice, and the only time this behavior observes an exception might be when he’s suffering a hangover from a party the night before. At worst, he may be afflicted with a short temper, fatigue and mild irritation, and he will have to be aided by one of the many attendants Olympus during the trial.

Dionysus’ tests have a fascination for grand crafts that perform the unimaginable, or otherwise a creation that answers a known alluring riddle. A potent restorative for resolving his headaches would also be one to surprise him, the god knowing full well he grows immune to a variety of hangover cures too quickly. Any magical miracle mixed in a bottle or over a burner and laced with potential is the performance he seeks. You must impress him. 

He wastes no time gassing up the player with his quips and snark, if he has the patience to hold banter. It’s almost always in good faith.  The man never takes himself or much of anything seriously.  Best his interest, and you would receive one of his prized decanters, either for display or for storing liquid solutions.

Outline:

This quest is strictly a roleplaying exercise.  There are no mandatory mechanics, save the general rules of the game.
 

NPCs:

<<Dionysus>>
This god is joyful, proud and boisterously confident. He has a vested interest in serving others, ensuring they enjoy life, especially around his company. All work and no play makes Dionysus a bitter man.

Epilogue:

Floor 17
<<Challenge of Olympus: Artisan>>

Quest Rewards:

• 500 Experience Points
• Aphrodite’s Magnifier | Crafting Tool | Meticulous: +1 CD when crafting in one’s workshop.

Requirements:

• Player must be at least a Rank 2 Artisan.
• Roleplay the following:
  • Receiving an invitation to visit Olympus, on Floor 17.
  • Meeting a satyr guard, often acting as an escort for the player.
  • Speaking with Aphrodite, goddess of love and beauty.
  • Initiating a challenge set out by Aphrodite.
  • Overcoming said challenge.
• Players are given reign to craft the challenge on their own accord. They are also welcome to alter Aphrodite's demeanor and appearance to better fit the story they want to tell.
• Players are encouraged to set a difficult challenge for their characters to overcome, be it through wit, strength or sheer willpower.
• Gods in these quests are NPCs solely for RP flavour. They are unable to engage in combat nor affect the setting of Aincrad in any way.

Summary:

Most players receive a message in their system mail at the ding of their profession reaching Rank 2. Sent on behalf of his pantheon by ‘Zeus’, players around Aincrad are invited to visit Olympus on Floor 17 to test their skills against the gods of their respective crafts themselves. Succeed and receive a limited edition trophy that’s guaranteed to boost your skills even further. Fail, and…

Well, Zeus was occasionally known to waste one’s time, now wasn’t he? 

The road to Olympus is guaranteed to be safe when undertaking this quest. A ‘Blessing of Olympus’ buff seems to repel most monsters away from the player, should they stick to the main road leading to the mountain. And as though that wasn’t enough, the gods have sent a satyr to lead them to their abode, ‘just in case’ the player got lost. Anyone even remotely versed in Greek mythology might be able to tell that it is Hera’s handiwork that lends them safe passage. Zeus isn’t the kind of entity to have taken precautions.

Out of all the gods of the primary pantheon, Aphrodite is the most likely to seek the player once they arrive at Olympus. Call it her overzealousness or an attempt to better her first impressions to the challenger; the goddess always greets the player with a warm and cheery smile. Some have described her as being too air-headed and bubbly. Others find solace in her heartfelt conversation and eagerness to welcome strangers to her own abode.

Each god’s challenge differs from player to player, so rarely would one’s preparation lend them aid in the upcoming trial. For Aphrodite, her challenges are almost always half-hearted and unrefined with regards to their rules and regulations. Most of the time, her tasks are centered on the goddess’ or the player’s personal aesthetics; rarely would she test her challengers of how their craft might benefit their users. With the judge not appearing to take the trial too seriously, then, what players offer the goddess might come across as a formality. However, Aphrodite is just as likely to turn her nose up at the offering should it not fall within her personal qualifications of ‘fashion’. 

Should any win her approval, they are awarded a golden magnifier, alongside the goddess’ own blessing and favor.

Outline:

This quest is strictly a roleplaying exercise.  There are no mandatory mechanics, save the general rules of the game.
 

NPCs:

<<Aphrodite>>
An excitable and curious entity, Aphrodite is talkative, and just as graceful with words as she is with her poise. She revels in the discourse of personal and intimate affairs, emotions and assorted fancies of mortals, and the expressions of such are the means of her challenges.   The more original the medium, the more likely she is to be impressed, for the span of Aphrodite's attention is known to be fleeting.

Epilogue:

Floor 24
<<Incognito Assassination>>
Party Limit: 1 | 20+ Posts
Prerequisite: Must have completed <<Incognito Analysis>>
Repeatable for standard thread rewards.

Quest Rewards:

• 4,000 Experience Points
• 10,000 col
• The player receives:
  • Blade of the Warrior
    • [T3 - Perfect Weapon of Choice]: Absolute ACC | ACC 2

Requirements:

• Defeat Uso-Tsuki and his bodyguards.
• Return to the Chief and receive your rewards.

Summary:

You've gathered enough information to know the route that Uso-Tsuki is taking to kill the Chief of Marsonia, and it's up to you to stop him. Find a way to take him out before he can reach his target. Uso-Tsuki has hired two of his strongest guards to help protect them, so you will need to take them out before you can take out Uso-Tsuki.

Outline: 

Players may choose whether to start the thread going over the plan with the <<The Chief>>. Once at the site, the Player will fight both bodyguards at the same time, but Uso-Tsuki will flee the moment combat begins. This gives the Player a chance to rest in between fights. Intercept the group on their route to assassinate the Chief and initiate combat. Once the bodyguards have been felled, the Player may pursue Uso-Tsuki and put an end to the assassination attempt once and for all.
 

NPCs:

<<The Chief>>
The Chief of Marsonia is a straightforward man who is widely considered equally wise and cunning. Every move is calculated, and he leaves little to chance. Having earned his position through enduring several gauntlets of war and strife, he is hardened to the consequences of trust and betrayal. He will express to the player that he once saw Uso-Tsuki as a son, but now realizes his pseudo-nepotism was a vehicle that now risks his untimely demise. Though not the sort to plead, he requests the player's aid in thwarting Uso-Tsuki's attempt on his life. 
 

Enemies:

<<Difendā>>
Out of <<Uso-Tsuki's>> pair of bodyguards, <<Difendā>> specializes in defense. He will absorb attacks for his allies without a second thought, even though he understands it means he will be the first to die as a result. He relies on <<Purotekutā's>> blade to enforce his iron will.

HP: 500/500 | DMG: 75 | MIT: 150 | ACC: 2 | EVA: -1
This boss uses its own BD roll when attacking.

Abilities:

• Defender | <<Difendā>> fulfills the role that his name implies. He will defend <<Uso-Tsuki>> and <<Purotekutā>> by taking damage for any attacks issued against them while he is still alive.
• Wild Charge | Starting with his first turn, <<Difendā>> will wildly charge the Player, reducing his BD by -1 for the attack while gaining 25 DMG and stunning the opponent upon hitting. This ability has a 3 turn cooldown, and <<Difendā>> will always use it again as soon as it is available.

<<Purotekutā>>
Out of <<Uso-Tsuki's>> pair of bodyguards, <<Purotekutā>> specializes in offense. He will unleash the fury of his katana to smite the enemies of his allies. He relies on <<Difendā's>> armor to protect him, but will return the favor with retribution served by his blade.

HP: 1000/1000 | DMG: 150 | ACC: 1 | EVA: 2
This boss uses its own BD roll when attacking.

Abilities:

• Eagle Eye | <<Purotekutā>> is fully expecting an attack from an enemy. He will always instantly identify a stealthed player, breaking their stealth and negating any auto-hit bonuses.
• Disciplined | Starting after his first turn, <<Purotekutā>> will go into the way of an oncoming successful attack, blocking half of the final damage and delivering half of the blocked damage back to the Player. This damage is mitigatable. <<Purotekutā>> will not reflect any status conditions that may incur during this attack. This ability overrides <<Difendā's>> <<Defender>> ability. This ability has a 4 turn cooldown, and <<Purotekutā>> will always use it again as soon as it is available, though it will only activate against successful attacks.

<<Uso-Tsuki>>
<<Uso-Tsuki>> is the mastermind of the assassination attempt against <<The Chief>>. Once a loyal member of the black ops corps, <<Uso-Tsuki>> is now seen as a danger and imminent threat. He aims to take <<The Chief>> down and fill the power vacuum it creates, assuming it to be his rightful position.

HP: 1400/1400 | DMG: 150 | MIT: 75 | ACC: 3 | EVA: 1
This boss uses its own BD roll when attacking.

Abilities:

• Master's Eye | <<Uso-Tsuki>> knows that you are coming, and is already prepared. His precognitive vision allows him to predict your motions and negate ACC and auto-hit bonuses.
• Fleet Feet | On his first roll, if <<Uso-Tsuki>> misses, he will attack a second time in the same turn.
• Ultimate Assassin | Starting on his second turn, Uso-Tsuki will gain a DMG boost of 75 for that attack only. This ability has a 3 turn cooldown, and <<Uso-Tsuki>> will always use it again as soon as it is available.

Epilogue:

Upon reporting <<Uso-Tsuki's>> defeat to  <<The Chief>>: