[F17] <<Challenge of Olympus>>

[Cardinal 0]

Floor 17
<<Challenge of Olympus>>
Party Limit: 1 | 20+ Posts
Repeatable only if you have changed professions, and only for new standard thread rewards and crafting item (no additional EXP).

Select Your Profession:

Blacksmith

Tailor

Artisan

Alchemist

Performer

Appraiser

Forager

Fisher

Cook

[Cardinal 0]

Floor 17
<<Challenge of Olympus: Blacksmith>>

Quest Rewards:

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

Requirements:

• Player must be at least a Rank 2 Blacksmith
• 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 Hephaestus, god of the forge.
  • Initiating a challenge set out by Hephaestus.
  • Overcoming said challenge.
• Players are given reign to craft the challenge on their own accord. They are also welcome to alter Hephaestus’ 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.

One might be taken aback the moment their eyes rest on Hephaestus -- should they try to leave, both their satyr accompaniment and the god will attempt to soothe their concerns. His form is a husk of divinity.  The blacksmith has sought to hide his deformities from the world after one too many taunts from outsiders about them. Whether or not his injuries were caused by careless work, long exposure or defects from birth, he choose not to say. Nevertheless, he would appreciate any player’s tolerance and composure should they offer it to him.

Each god’s challenge differs from player to player, so rarely would one’s preparation lend them aid in the upcoming trial. Hephaestus prefers to focus on the player's perseverance, as well as their ability to adapt their crafts to certain environmental or accessibility factors. The god enjoys watching his fellow crafters build upon their latent talents, forged in a similar manner to the layering of Damascus steel. He limits any direct contact with the player, avoiding proximity due to his own insecurities, though he is willing to offer his assistance and advice to any player wanting his suggestions on improvements.

Should the player prove to be his champion, they are awarded an unbreakable cross-pein hammer, alongside the god’s own gratefulness and good will.

Outline: 

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

---

NPCs:

 

<<Hephaestus>>
Patient, wise and insightful. Hephaestus is a pleasant figure to work with, as long as you stay clear from the topic about his physical deformities. He is willing to teach just as long as the player is willing to listen and practice his advice.

---

Epilogue: 

Spoiler

Not many players get to experience being one of the gods’ favored, and here another one of their numbers stands strong. Hephaestus is proud, picking up the player's craft with some hesitance, and ultimately orders a satyr to store it alongside his other challengers’ trophies. With some assistance from another attendant, he delivers the player a invitation to a banquet of the gods -- all part of formalities, he assures them, and wishes to receive their response at that moment. Should the player be willing to stick around, Hephaestus may not be able to show the delight blooming on his face, but he most certainly voices it best he can.

The god has a hard time moving, only able to limp, hop, or on bad days roll himself around the courtyard with the aid of a wheelchair. The smithing pair make their way towards Olympus’ mess hall, where a variety of mythical beasts and gods await them, alongside other respective champions who have also bested their trial that day. A toast is always made in celebration for those who’ve succeeded and, as always, the player is offered to partake in the feast once it properly begins.

 

[Cardinal 0]

Floor 17
<<Challenge of Olympus: Tailor>>

Quest Rewards:

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

Requirements:

• Player must be at least a Rank 2 Tailor.
• 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 Athena, goddess of wisdom and the arts.
  • Initiating a challenge set out by Athena.
  • Overcoming said challenge.
• Players are given reign to craft the challenge on their own accord. They are also welcome to alter Athena’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.

Athena’s disposition is awe-encompassing at first sight: her voice commands respect even as she extends the same courtesy to the player. A refined and confident individual, she often holds the thread of the conversation throughout her talks with the player, maintaining both wit and charm in her lines whilst upholding an air of professionalism. Truly, Athena depicts an exemplary and dependable figure that all mortals can seek to rely on.

Each god’s challenge differs from player to player, so rarely would one’s preparation lend them aid in the upcoming trial. The goddess often strives to test one’s intelligence, wisdom and logic thinking skills, though deviations are likely to occur. Many have reported taking away a bit of knowledge of history or quantum physics from interactions with the goddess -- albeit, their success in their respective challenges are almost always a struggle, and they find themselves better for it, brimming with new ideas for creations in their mind. Though this may scare off prospective challengers, be rest assured: Athena will be there to guide the player at every step of the way. It is their cunning and resourcefulness that she acknowledges and admires the most.

Should the player prove their worth to the deity, they are awarded a golden needle, alongside the goddess’ own blessing and appreciation.

Outline:

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

---

NPCs:

<<Athena>>
Kind and rational, Athena speaks with courtesy, not selling the player short on their wisdom as mortal beings. She offers advice quite often, lending the player hints at succeeding at their own challenge should they find themselves stuck. The one thing she can’t forgive is arrogance; especially not in ignorance.

---

Epilogue: 

Spoiler

Not many players get to experience being one of the gods’ favored, and here another one of their numbers stands strong. Athena’s extension of congratulations is formal, requiring a firm shake of the player’s hand and a gift of a woven laurel as a token for undergoing her tribulation. Even her offer to the meet in the evening comes rolled up in a scroll, written and signed in cursive, for a chance to mingle with the other gods of the pantheon. Should the player accept, her expression is one of tenderness and joy.

The mess hall is abundant with mythical beasts and other championed challengers of the other gods present that day, and Athena walks with her crowned ahead of her, almost as if to show them off. At a resounding call for a toast, everyone celebrates the victories of the players who’ve bested their trials, before the feast begins proper. As always, the player is offered to partake. 

 

[Cardinal 0]

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:

Spoiler

Not many players get to experience being one of the gods’ favored, and here another one of their numbers stand strong. Of course, crowning her new champion isn’t a lasting priority of the ever-distracted goddess of love -- she most likely spends her time examining the piece newly introduced to her and fits it into an assortment of different aesthetic themes, inviting the player to toss in their opinions on her suggested layouts. Only after she’s had her fun will Aphrodite set the piece aside for one of the satyrs to stash away, finally extending the player an offer to be her 'plus one' at a pending dinner banquet.

What fun, being Aphrodite’s personal escort to an event. She dolls and dresses up the player and fusses over their attire, if only for her personal amusement. When it is time to gather, she walks with the player to Olympus’ feast hall, where the full pantheon of gods is present, ready to celebrate their newfound prized crafters and end the day’s activities on a joyous note. Of course, the player is most certainly welcome to partake in the prepared feast. They are the guest of honor, after all!

 

[Cardinal 0]

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:

Spoiler

Not many players get to experience being one of the gods’ favored, and here another of their numbers stands strong. Dionysus acts completely carefree about the player’s success, not bothering to conceal his sense of extreme pride. His excitement often has him cracking open another bottle of liquor for the moment, while ushering his attendants to store his newfound treasure in the museum where he hoards his solutions. He’s likely to casually drop an invitation to the gods' banquet,  giving away few details about the event unless they're about his own presence at the feast.

Come the late afternoon, Dionysus can be found in high spirits, and will gladly guide the player lazily towards the city’s communal feast hall. One might expect attention to be drawn to the drunken, giggling figure and their new chosen alchemist, however none of the gods seem to bat an eye at his behavior. A toast to the player’s victory afterwards and the champion will be offered to partake in the feast of the divines, as is customary. for beating the Challenge of Olympus.

[Cardinal 0]

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: 

Spoiler

Not many players get to experience being one of the gods’ favored, and here another one of their number stands strong. Apollo’s light is blissful when one finally basks in the moment where he loosens his strict and convoluted persona.  His favored get to peek behind the false facades that he only puts on to separate the wheat from the chaff. He still maintains his air of superiority, however, as he issues his champion an invitation for their attendance: one night at the gods' banquet for a celebration of a new prized performer in the making.

He makes sure the player is well dressed for the party, should they choose to attend, and personally escorts them to the great feast hall. A circle of gods await them alongside other mythical beings and successful challengers of the day, now touted as the masters of their own crafts. A toast acts as their cheer of celebration, and as customary, the champion will be offered to partake in the feast of the divines.

 

[Cardinal 0]

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: 

Spoiler

Not many players get to experience being one of the gods’ favored, and here another one of their number stands strong. The trick with Hermes is that he often pretends that his actions are all part of the whims and premeditations of fate.  Somehow, he fishes out a dozen personally scribed invitations, all addressed to the player, and inviting them to join the gods at their nightly banquet for overcoming Olympus’ challenge. One can only wonder where he obtained all these hand-written notes and who he scammed in order to put his associates' name all over them.  

Leading the player into the great feast hall, they join a circle of gods, mythical beings and other successful challengers, now touted as the masters of their own crafts. As is customary, the champion will be offered to partake in the feast of the divine.  Just don’t stuff your inventories full of breadsticks, okay?

 

[Cardinal 0]

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: 

Spoiler

Her invitation comes discreetly to the player -- they don’t often have many challengers showing up at the isle, after all. The feast they prepare for champions of her trial is equally rare. Thus the player is offered the rare chance to attend, partaking in the crops and meals that the nymphs and the goddess make out of their isle’s bounty. Should they accept, Demeter will leave the player to wander the premises alongside an attendant, and only when the banquet is ready will she call for them.

At a long wooden table, Poseidon presides over the harmony of creatures present, before initiating a toast to the champion who has brought success and glory to themselves. When the feast begins, the player is encouraged to enjoy the fruits of the day’s labor; perhaps while being subjected to the sea god’s loose scrutiny, they might also have a chance to pick up some new gathering tricks from those with whom they dine.

 

[Cardinal 0]

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.

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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: 

Spoiler

Amphitrite’s excitement is short on nothing -- it is with the warmest of gestures that she invites the player to one of the rare get-togethers on the isle, this in honor and  commemoration of the player’s besting their trial. Should the player be interested in joining, the goddess will arrange accommodations for the evening, leaving an attendant nymph to guide them around the isle or the seas at the player’s behest. Only at sundown does she seek out the player personally and in earnest, guiding them to a long wooden table where many a creature of the Land of Hesperides have gathered for the momentous occasion.

It is Poseidon who happens to preside over this table, flanked by Amphitrite on his left and Demeter to his right. He initiates a toast to the jewel who has found success in their endeavors this day, before commencing the feast proper.  A chorus of cheers erupts from all attendees who are present. The player is welcome to enjoy the fruits of the day’s labors; perhaps while being subjected to the sea god’s loose scrutiny. He might even impart a few of his own tips, if the mood catches him.

 

[Cardinal 0]

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: 

Spoiler

Not many players get to experience being one of the gods’ favored, and here another one of their number stands strong. The goddess of the hearth is awash with satisfaction and showers the player with congratulatory praises, alongside offering an invitation to them to join the gods at their evening banquet. Before the player is able to provide their answer, however, Hestia is more likely to carry away their freshly made feast to some of the other denizens of Olympus -- only returning to her champion when the platers are empty, with gracious apologies in tow.

Despite her eagerness to diverge from the topic at hand to share the fruits of the player’s labor with others, she remains focused on escorting the player around to better acquaint them with Olympus and their formalities until the time of celebration. In the great feast hall, at sundown, a circle of gods await the pair alongside mythical beings and other successful challengers crowned that day as masters of their own crafts. A toast to their victories afterwards, the champion are offered to partake in the feast of the divine, as is customary.