CONQUEST OF MECHANUS
Hi there. Welcome to a new forum game story thing inspired by similar things the mid-2010s community did here. This game would play out like a turn-based RPG.
Story:
In the far-off land of Tuberus, everything was fine. However... That all changed when the Mechanus Armada attacked, led by the evil goblin engineer Mechanus.
Tuberus was set into a state of chaos. Fortunately, for every bad thing, there's always hope. In this case, another land eventually noticed this attack.
General Y: This is bad! Mechanus has run amok. He has bested all our elite forces. Men, we need a superpowered team with potential. Find voluteers, HIRE TEENAGERS WITH ATTITUDE IF YOU HAVE TO!
Remaining soldiers: Yes, sir!
General Y: One more thing! Send invitation letters to notify them, and keep a low profile to avoid panic among the masses.
That being said, the fate of Tuberus lies in the hands of a ragtag bunch of misfits... Will they fall short of their mission, or will they be bad enough dudes to handle the Mechanus threat?
Gameplay:
You have 3 stats: Endurance(END), Attack(ATK) and Initiative(INT). So do the enemies. Moves have Power(POW) and Probability(PRB).
END is health. Once yours goes down to zero, you're out. Damage taken takes away from END.
ATK is something of an attack multiplier. POW is the base damage for abilities. Damage formula: POW * (ATK/10)
INT is the order of who goes first. If INT between players and enemies is equal, players go first.
PRB is your chances of the attack hitting, in percentage.
Players also have Energy(ENR) that moves use up. Certain things, mainly items, can restore ENR though.
You also get a basic attack which deals rudimentary damage without using up ENR. Damage is calculated as ATK * 1.5
Only 4 people get to be in the fight at the time, though you can switch out freely. Switching out takes up your move, though.
Once all enemies in battle are down, players that participated in the fight get EXP. With enough, they can increase their stats and learn new skills.
Also in this game is an elemental system. We have Fire, Water, Wind, Earth, Ice, Lightning, Nature, Metal, Light and Darkness.
Players and monsters may specialise in a certain element. This improves the PRB or POW of certain elements.
They are also weak or strong against a certain element. Weaknesses deal 1.3 times the damage while elements the target is strong against deal a 0.7 factor.
Monster Log and tutorial (http://cutstuff.net/forum/index.php?topic=10870.msg336561#msg336561)
Roster:
Harold
Element: Water
END 100/100
ENR 130/130
ATK 5
INT 10
EXP 20/100
Skills:
Squirt (POW 10, PRB 65, ENR 10, Water)
Fire the water gun.
Water Shield (POW 0, PRB 100, ENR 20, Water)
Protects an ally for 2 turns, but is destroyed by Lightning attacks.
Passive:
-Conductive(Weakness to Lightning)
-Fireproof(Strong against Fire)
Bass-Sama
Element: Light
END 85/85
ENR 80/80
ATK 14
INT 12
EXP 10/100
Skills:
Red Photon Laser (POW 8, PRB 95, ENR 10, Light)
Fire a laser.
Diagonal Slash (POW 18, PRB 45, ENR 20)
Deals a powerful swipe.
Passive:
Flammable(Weakness to Fire)
Defrost(Strong against Ice)
Jusuke
Element: Darkness
END 65/65
ENR 110/110
ATK 15
INT 6
EXP 20/100
Skills:
Execute (POW 10, PRB 50, ENR 10)
Damage increases proportional to target's missing health.
Mark of Death (POW 0, PRB 100, ENR 13, Darkness)
Mark one target. Marked target takes more damage from Jusuke. Can only mark one target at a time.
Passive:
-Edge(Strong against Light)
Wynn
Element: Metal
END 155/155
ENR 100/100
ATK 16
INT 4
EXP 20/100
Skills:
Grab-Strike (POW 18, PRB 40, ENR 18)
Other moves cannot be used on next turn but additional damage is dealt.
Filter (POW 0, PRB 35, ENR 8)
Dose of nutrients that may eliminate negtaive statuses.
Passive:
Weighted(Weakness to Earth)
Ashie
Element: Metal
END 75/75
ENR 125/125
ATK 15
INT 8
EXP 20/100
Skills:
Energy Fists (POW 12, PRB 55, ENR 10, Metal)
Punches that increase damage if used consecutively.
Machine Gun (POW 6, PRB 40, ENR 15, Fire)
Summons a machine gun that fires 6 shots in one turn.
Boarfanger Man
Element: None
END 60/60
ENR 0/0
200p
ATK 15
INT 16
EXP 20/100
Skills:
Portable Spit (POW 0, PRB 100, ENR 0)
Cooks meat for 2 turns.
Stamina Oil (POW 0, PRB 100, ENR 0)
Subsequent attacks build up K.O. for 6 turns.
Passive:
Flammable(Weakness to Fire)
Defrost(Strong against Ice)
Strike(Basic attacks may cause Stun)
Yellow Jack
Element: Nature
END 70/70
ENR 120/120
ATK 12
INT 9
EXP 10/100
Skills:
Swarm (POW 8, PRB 60, ENR 15, Nature)
Bees deal extra damage every turn for 3 turns.
Throw Jar (POW 4, PRB 50, ENR 12, Nature)
Slow down enemies with honey for 2 turns.
Passive:
-Keep-dry(Weakness to Water)
-Grounded(Strong against Wind)
Camila Carter & Jem
Element: None
END 140/140
ENR 100/100
ATK 10
INT 5
EXP 0/100
Skills:
Weapon Shift (POW 0, PRB 100, ENR 0)
Switch weapons in inventory at the end of turn. May be used after other moves.
Use Weapon (POW ~, PRB ~, ENR ~, ~)
Use current weapon. ~:Varies depending on equipped weapon.
Passive:
-Insulator(Strong against Lightning)
-Overcharged(Lightning may cause Stun)
Shepard
Element: Darkness
END 55/55
ENR 140/140
ATK 5
INT 5
EXP 20/100
Skills:
Nightmare Swipe (POW 70, PRB 80, ENR 18, Darkness)
Nightmarish claw swipes that deal some damage to enemies other than target.
Healing Dream (POW 50, PRB 100, ENR 16, Light)
Conjure heart sheep to heal up allies. *:Health is calculated by damage formula; Element has no effect.
Simon & Finley
Element: Lightning
END 120/120
ENR 70/70
ATK 12
INT 8
EXP 20/100
Skills:
Overbearing (POW 18, PRB 85, ENR 16)
Knocks down the enemy until the next move.
Hammer Head (POW 0, PRB 100, ENR 15, Metal)
Temporarily reduces damage and prevents disabling status conditions.
Passive:
Flammable(Weakness to Fire)
Natured(Strong against Nature)
Inventory:
Assault Rifle (5)
Camila's versatile rifle. Item count indicates ammo. (POW 15, PRB 100, ENR 16)
Dagger
Camila's daggers. (POW 27, PRB 46, ENR 16)
Potion (6)
Emergency instant-healing fluid. Recover 20 END.
Antidote(2)
Specialised potion that can neutralise deadly chemicals. Cures POI.
Gold Chunk(9)
A small amount of gold. Looks like valuable stuff.
Sanke Fang(2)
A tooth from a Snake. Can be used for crafting or sold for a small price.
Join the Discord server here. (https://discord.gg/pWbezQ8)
jman I do not appreciate that last ability
there are probably people to blame for this that aren't me
Name: Wynn
Appearance: Wynn is a great white shark measuring at 3.17 meters in length. His locomotion on land is achieved through his Aquatic Specimen Preservation Suit (affectionately referred to by Wynn as "Aspus"). This suit is a large water tank with two mechanical arms and 4 legs, all light gray in color with blue stripes running along them. The back of the suit is equipped with a multi-purpose backpack with various functions to sustain Wynn, such as an automated nutrient injection system that deals with the water and a raincatcher to replace any displaced water. Wynn communicates through a speaker mounted by harness that can project what he wants to say. If the tank takes damage, it will begin to slowly leak water until the suit is repaired enough to refill the tank.
Personality: Not overly nice. Wynn is relatively standoffish and stubborn, though he's reliable to those he feels he can trust. Is a fan of what he refers to as "The hunt," though this just boils down to frequent sparring matches. Will occasionally remind others of his species. Those who do well against or with him in battle earn his respect, and Wynn will typically treat these people as though they have been long friends of his. This side of him is very boisterous. Treats Aspus as a person.
Element: Metal
Playstyle: Tanky. Aspus is capable of projecting barriers to protect the main tank and any allies. Can also fight with its powerful robot arms.
I'm really being subtle here
Character Info and other such fluff.
Name: "Boarfanger Man"
Appearance: Wearing a rather distinctive boar mask and donning a striking yellow sheepskin coat; it seems as if he's not concerned about his smell. This distinctive appearance also gives the impression that he wants to at least be very noticeable. He always seems to have his carving knife at his side; as if it was proof of his profession, whatever it is. In his right hand; he wields a bone club; curving slightly towards the user, wrapped in yellow scaly hide, the hide ending at the handle. Fangs adorn the striking end and red eyes on the sides make the weapon look like the top jaw of a beast. He has a pentagon-shaped bone buckler strapped to his left forearm; the same hide going down the middle, cut off at the sides. Although the shield is too light to block anything substantial; it is also too light to burden the user in battle. Basically, this is what he wields; http://vignette1.wikia.nocookie.net/monsterhunter/images/6/63/Weapon497.png/revision/latest?cb=20120512094125. This is his mask: http://vignette2.wikia.nocookie.net/monsterhunter/images/7/73/Mask-Bullfango.png/revision/latest?cb=20100130041831
Personality: Contrasting his outfit and his weapon; he's rather boring, having nothing much to talk about; which could be mistaken for being a quiet person. He often spends his free time cracking bad jokes or quietly reading. He's got a case of trying too hard at times, or that's what he believes. A sure-fire way to anger him would be to ruin his plans, especially if you're on his side. Sometimes wonders what parts he could mine or carve off of the Mechanus Armada's goons and how many he needs to slay in order to make anything worthwhile.
Base Gameplay Stuff
Element: Weak to Fire. Strong against Ice. Has the skill Thunder Attack +1 on his armor. Element specialty is a moot point.
His garb gives him an awful weakness to fire; but does nothing for his choice of weapon. Most people would be convinced that he's just wearing his clothing just for the sake of an odd appearance. Every now and then, a jolt of static can be felt; which may give people a feeling that he should put it to better use. The silver lining to this is that he may be very resistant to Ice.
Playstyle: Supportive; Although he has high INT and high ATK on paper; he doesn't have any special moves that make direct use of his attack and his END is trash. To compensate; he wields the Deathprize, which can paralyze enemies; given enough strikes. He can also apply oils to his weapon to add modifiers to his attacks; which will make better use of his attack. If worst comes to worst, he can at least take part in "Stylish Bombing", a fighting style involving item usage and status abuse. Rumors float about; rumors that he uses his carving knife on the corpses of the monsters he fells.
Really Long Fluff that gives a general idea of how I want to play.
Stat Guidelines (use these to help you allocate stats)
END: Very Low
ENR: None
ATK: High
INT: Very High
He starts out with 3 moves.
Portable Spit
Description: You can cook meat with this. There's not really any other use for this. Takes 2 turns if used in the middle of battle.
Apply Stamina Oil
STOCK: 5 (Carries this much when going into battle. Restocks in intermissions.)
Description: Apply an Oil to your weapon; making every weapon attack (on the head) also build-up K.O. (stuns victim for 1 turn) for 6 turns. The build-up is equal to a 8 POW attack. Adds 10 POW ENR damage (doesn't matter where this hits), too. Only one oil can be active at a time. May be changed at GM's request.
"Boarfanger Man oils up his weapon! The weapon starts glowing blue!"
"The oil wears off."
Strike (MAY BE CHANGED AT GM'S REQUEST)
Element: Null/Para (MAY BE CHANGED AT GM'S REQUEST)
PRB: 100/(1 in 3)
POW: 10/5
Description: A simple strike, no bells or whistles, besides dealing Paralysis build-up sometimes. Paralysis stuns the enemy for about 2 turns if threshold is reached on bosses and tough targets or if activated on normal enemies (May be changed at GM's request.). It's never been simpler. For all intents and purposes, this is a basic attack.
He can learn later on (if it doesn't scream "Monster Hunter" to you, nothing will);
Apply Affinity Oil
STOCK: 5
Description: Apply an Oil to your weapon; making every weapon attack have a +20% crit rate (roll 1 ~ 5) for 6 turns. When a critical hit is successful, the attack will deal 25% more damage, rounded up. Only one oil may be active at a time. May be changed at GM's request.
"Boarfanger Man oils up his weapon! The weapon starts glowing red!"
"The oil wears off."
Apply Mind's Eye Oil
STOCK: 5
Description: Apply an Oil to your weapon; making every weapon attack unable to be deflected for 6 turns. Only one oil may be active at a time. May be adjusted at GM's request.
"Boarfanger Man oils up his weapon! The weapon starts glowing white!"
"The oil wears off."
Apply Destroyer Oil
STOCK: 5 (may be changed at GM's request)
Description: Apply an Oil to your weapon; making it easier to break guards or parts for 6 turns. Only one oil may be active at a time. May be adjusted at GM's request.
"Boarfanger Man oils up his weapon! The weapon starts glowing green!"
"The oil wears off."
Throw Flash Bomb
STOCK: 5
Description: Surprisingly, this blinds the enemy. This could be able to also stun an enemy, or interrupt attacks; though then again it could just be rumors.
"Boarfanger Man chucks a Flash Bomb at <target>!"
"<target> is blinded by the light!"
Throw Sonic Bomb
STOCK: 10
Description: Emits an extremely loud noise, interrupting whatever the enemy was doing, if they can hear. Side effects may include; Sending the target into a fit of rage.
"Boarfanger Man chucks a Sonic Bomb at <target>!"
"<target> seems to be unfazed. What a waste of time!"
"<target> forgets what he's doing and flies into a blind rage!"
Throw Tranquilizer Bomb
STOCK: 8
Description: Used for capturing weakened monsters in traps. Other than that, you could also use it as a makeshift smoke bomb; if you feel like pretending to be a ninja. Disclaimer; Capturing only works on sufficiently weakened large monsters that are caught in traps! (If large enemy has 10% health and are trapped, two of these will remove them from the battle.)
"Boarfanger Man chucks a Tranquilizer Bomb at <target>! <target> looks unfazed!"
"Boarfanger Man chucks a Tranquilizer Bomb at <target>! <target> falls into a deep sleep. Mission complete!"
Set Up Shock Trap
STOCK: 1 (consumed when successfully planted.)
Element: Lightning
Description: Sets a Shock Trap at your feet; which will be in play the turn after it is used. This trap is tripped by large monsters; perfect for capturing slippery foes. Setting up can be interrupted by taking damage.
"Boarfanger Man sets down a Shock Trap!"
"The Shock Trap activates, loose sparks escaping from the trap every now and then."
"<victim> trips up Boarfanger Man's Shock Trap! <victim> can't move!"
"<victim> breaks free!"
Set Up Pitfall Trap
STOCK: 1 (consumed when successfully planted.)
Description: Sets a Pitfall Trap at your feet; which will be in play the turn after it is used. This trap is tripped by heavy weights; perfect for catching beasts of great size. Setting up can be interrupted by taking damage.
"Boarfanger Man sets down a Pitfall Trap!"
"The Pitfall Trap is fully deployed!"
"<victim> falls for Boarfanger Man's Pitfall Trap! <victim> ends up stuck in a ditch!"
"<victim> breaks free!"
Set Up Barrel Bomb S
STOCK: 10
DMG: 20 (may be changed at GM's request)
Description: Set up a Barrel Bomb S, which will explode after a set time. Conveniently, in the land of turn based games, this is instant. Detonates nearby Barrel Bomb L/L+ without recoil damage.
"Boarfanger Man puts down a Barrel Bomb S at <target>'s feet , then runs back to position!"
"The Barrel Bomb S explodes, dealing 20 damage!"
Set Up Barrel Bomb L
STOCK: 3
DMG: 80 (may be changed at GM's request)
Description: Set up a Barrel Bomb L; which will explode if it takes any damage. The target will take a sizable amount of damage; but be wary of recoil! Indirect attacks do not trigger recoil.
"Boarfanger Man puts down a Barrel Bomb L at <position> , then runs back to position!"
"The Barrel Bomb L explodes, dealing 100 damage to <target> and <victim>!"
Set Up Barrel Bomb L+
STOCK: 2 (These bombs smell like gunpowder and... fish?)
DMG: 150 (may be changed at GM's request)
Description: Set up a Barrel Bomb L+; which will explode if it takes any damage. The target will take a lot of damage; but be wary of recoil! Indirect attacks do not trigger recoil.
"Boarfanger Man puts down a Barrel Bomb L+ at <position> , then runs back to position!"
"The Barrel Bomb L+ explodes, dealing 150 damage to <target> and <victim>!"
(https://i.gyazo.com/b370ce9c26d75d191dc756cb9ea434d2.png)
This is one hell of a sting operation.
Name: Yellow Jack
Appearance: A disheveled, lanky old man wearing a gaudy yellow beekeeping veil, a black-and-yellow striped shirt, a pair of black cargo shorts, black socks that are entirely too long, and a modest pair of brown loafers. His backpack doubles as a synthetic beehive and also a repository for his bug net and endless jars of honey.
Personality: Old. Crotchety. Always has something to complain about. Longingly reminisces of "the good ol' days." Enjoys bees.
Element: Nature
Playstyle: Jack commands an army of angry bees. He can wield them to attack by releasing them as an aimless swarm, or he can order them into formation to attack with a sword made of bees, wear bee armor, and the like. He can also throw jars of honey to affect enemies with sticky debuffs, or outright consume them to restore health.
Gameplay wise, this is one character.
Name: Camila Carter (and Jem)
Appearance:
Camila is a cyborg, even though most of her internal body is still organic. She has gray, synthetic skin, Shiny blue eyes and black hair. Slightly overweight.
She wears mosty summer clothing such as shorts and a t-shirt, even during winter, as her body can easily heat itself.
Her legs are fully robotic up to the knees, so she doesn't wear footwear.
Jem is an artificial intelligence that lives inside her, and is connected to her mind. It doesn't have a real physical appearance, but its "avatar" looks like a violet human figure with blue sunglasses.
Personality:
Camila is intelligent sounding and well educated but she often criticizes people, sometimes being rude while doing so.
When following her objectives, she tries to find other benefits along the way, which distracts her from what is important.
Patience is one of her greatest virtues, but those fighting alongside her might need it too, as she is a slow fighter.
She will only fight if the cost is lower than the reward, which makes her less prone to seek revenge unless it can benefit her.
She likes controlling other people but she is sometimes submissive to Jem.
Jem is rude, cynical and even more critical. It speaks in a southern accent. It's obsessed with obtaining knowledge.
Primary element: <insert something here>
Playstyle:
Espionage and detection. Lots of END, lacks INT.
She doesn't master any specific weapon or fighting style, but she prefers small weapons such as pistols and daggers so she can carry more, or versatile weapons such as assault rifles with attachments.
She is resistant to electric attacks, but they will stun her.
Potential habilities:
Inject nanobots: Fires a syringe dart to introduce microscopic robots into a person's body. Can be used on allies or enemies.
Destroy nanobots: Destroys introduced nanobots.
Trojan: Transmits what the nanobot host sees or hears.
Psionic network: Uses introduced nanobots in a person to share their senses, thoughts or even body control with Camila and Jem, as long as all parties are willing.
Augmented vision: Allows her to see in the dark.
Cloak: Makes her invisible to most entities for a limited time.
Environmental scan: Obtains information about the surroundings. May display nearby hidden enemies.
The following habilities are very ENR intensive and may stun Camila.
Neurovirus detonation: Uses already introduced nanobots to attack a host's central nervous system for a short period of time, causing paralysis, hallucinations, agitation, fever, terror, and in rare cases, coma. Nanobots are destroyed in the process.
EMP attack: Stuns/disables robots or electronic devices.
Sniffer: Intercepts enemy communications.
Name: Shepard
Appearance: (http://i.imgur.com/BXoo8dU.png) (old-ass sheet... does not display knife)
A girl in a wheelchair. Has a knife. Pink nightgown and pink nightcap. Curly blonde hair. Cap has an eye on it that opens up when she sleeps. Puffy face, cute and moe. Small arms.
Personality: Gentle and spaced out.
Primary element: Darkness.
Ability/Weapon: Falls asleep and calls forth dream entities. Good dream entities take the form of sheep. Nightmare entities take the form of body parts.
Dreaming also warps surrounding space.
Sleeping has healing properties to herself and allies.
Has a knife. Physically weak though.
(Entity use examples:
*Carpet of tongues that slows foes.
*Jaws that latch onto foes.
*Sheep that put foes to sleep.
*A claw that does wide slashes.
*Several arms that wrap around a foe and restrain them.
*Arms that perform rapid punches.
*Eyes that emit blinding light/darkness
*Giant hand to block attacks
*A heart allies grab to heal themselves
*Legs that sprout from her chair and carry her places
)
Playstyle: Mage/summoner type character. Disorients foes and inflicts status conditions. Entites help protect her from attacks. Heals allies. Slow and frail though.
Low END (Though END can be rectified through protective and restorative skills). She is a wheelchair bound girl afterall.
Low INT. Cant run and sleepy reaction times.
Low ATK. Her powers just arent tailored to damage.
High PRB. Hard to dodge when the place has been warped to her twisted dreams.
High ENR. Literally fighting in her sleep.
Hello there! Unfortunately, I decided to skip the individual introductions. However, I have made my decisions, so take a seat and get ready to anticipate stuff.
Hence, our 10 lucky champions who will take on Mechanus are:
Bass-Sama,
Ashie,
Simon & Finley,
Camila & Jem,
Wynn & Aspus,
Jusuke,
Shepard,
Harold,
Boarfanger Man, and
Yellow Jack
Unfortunately, Max, sorry to say, but you're the one reject. While your character is good for a quick laugh, that's that. I forgot to mention that a character shouldn't be under-powered either, unless they had a growth curve that would rectify that much later on.
That being said, good luck, champions. I'll see you in the game.
Here. Join the Discord server to get up to speed with the game. Non-players can join too! (https://discord.gg/pWbezQ8)
Alright folks. This waiting has gone on for long enough, so let's get this show on the road!
A few days had passed. Mechanus and his army have already left a mark on Tuberus. However, back at the military base, a team of soldiers appeared before General Y in the meeting room.
Soldier: We have found volunteers for the mission, General!
General Y: Good. Bring them in! I'll need to give them the briefing.
The soldiers left the area, making way for a group of characters. General Y was left in a state of shock and amazement before getting his senses together.
General Y: Good day, people! You are here today because you volunteered for an important mission. *points at a map on screen* The land of Tuberus has been attacked by one of our most wanted criminals: Mechanus. He had recently bested most of our army.
General Y: We have called you all here because you have the talent needed to put him to justice. His invasion was only recent, so we may have a chance of saving the land. Are we clear?
Before anyone could respond, the meeting was interrupted by rushing footsteps. The door opens, and a person clad in blue appeared. His most distinctive feature is a giant helmet shaped like a basin.
???: Sorry I'm late!
General Y: No matter. The team is all here now! Folks, this is your Mission Control, Hil. He has volunteered to help us. He claims to have frequenced Tuberus for quite a while, so his knowledge might prove useful.
Hil: Hi there. I have been given these thingamabobs to help you through the adventure. They said these can scan the environment or something!
Hil presented 10 devices resembling headsets onto the table. He had one left on hand, proceeding to attach it to one of the headphone shells on his head.
Hil: Go on. These are one-size-fits-all. I think my job is to feed you extra info based on data I obtain or something.
General Y: If we are all ready, meet me outside.
I hope you guys are okay with roleplaying. To make things more interesting, players are free to write out what the characters are up to/feeling/doing/thinking in the form of mini-scenes. The only condition is that it does not make absurd deviations from the game.
Also, please bold actions that will impact the game.
woke
There was a spot in the meeting room that, for a split second, no one looked at.
The next soldier to look at it suddenly saw a wheelchair bound girl clad in pink nightgown.
That would be how she'd get here.
A soldier tried to give her a headset.
It clipped through her.
Then disappeared.
She then said "cool" on the communication channel. So it must've worked out.
"Greetings.
I'm Shepard.
You're real people, right?
Dream denizens are nice and all, but they're pretty weird.
It's nice to meet normal people for a change."
*Yawn*
"Let me know if you need anythi..."
She fell asleep.
Disembodied hands are now petting anything with fur or strange hair.
Boarfanger Man spares not a moment more in the meeting room and walks outside...
...The light really hurts his eyes when he's been in the dark, even if he spends most of his days in his mask.
Taking a moment to adjust to the sudden influx of light, Boarfanger Man looks around himself...
...By Gog! This place is most certainly... alien? This is going to take time adjusting to.
Boarfanger Man rummages through his pouch, spending his free time checking what items he managed to bring with him.
Sorry for the delay, but the show must go on!
Boarfanger Man rummages through his pouch.
Found 200p and a Potion!
With the team ready to leave, the group followed the General to some kind of airship landing area outside. There, they were greeted by a large cargo jet.
General Y: Folks, this is your mode of transportation to Tuberus. Inside, we have packaged some emergency supplies for your journey should you get in a pinch. Good luck on your journey, team!
Hil: Alright guys. Mechanus is many steps ahead of us, but this means we can knock him down a peg while he's on top of the world. With these headsets, I can see and hear your journey the whole way through. Anyway, see ya in the winners' circle!
The blue-clad fellow went back inside the base, preparing to play his part. The remaining party members boarded the cargo jet, which took of into the skies. The man piloting the ship looked at a mirror hung above the pilot's chamber, and sparked up a conversation with the party.
Pilot: Heyo people. How's the weather right now? Sit down and hang on to something. This thing isn't meant to carry people as it is these boxes.
A few hours dragged on, when a stray laser blast sped through besides one of the ship's side window. A loud explosion caused the cargo jet to tremble.
Pilot: Long-ranged attack! I should've listened to the General when he said using a non-combat ship to slip under Mechanus' radar was a bad idea! We're going down!
Cargo Jet Computer: ACTIVATING HOVER LAND.
As lasers barraged the cargo jet, it disappeared under the clouds as it gracefully descended to the ground. By a stroke of luck, the party ended up at a port area. They exited the cargo jet, now left smoking and in a state of disrepair.
Pilot: Would you look at that... We're gonna be stuck here until we get a repair crew to sort this out. Maybe you could look around, or stay here and talk. Whichever is fine by me.
While wandering the port, the party all heard static followed by a slightly-muffled voice coming through their headsets.
Hil: Hello. Do you read me? This is your boi, Mission Control. I timed your ride's GPS with your environment recodings. It seems that you're in Tuberus, so be on the lookout for Mechanus goons.
???: It came from over here, sir.
Hil: Watch out!
A pair of knights rushed in the party's general direction in battle-ready stances, followed by a king.
Hil: Oh my! That's the King of Tuberus himself! I wonder what he's doing out by the sea.
Knight 1: Stop right there, strangers!
Knight 2: How are we to know you are not in cahoots with that goblin?
Hil: This is your chance to tell the authorities about your situation. Let 'em know that you've been hired by another land to catch a fugitive; the goblin!
Alright, so here's the deal: You can still roleplay for previous cutscenes, but under two conditions:
-Please speficy which cutscene you are referring to through use of time frames and/or location.
-In the most recent cutscene, you can kinda interact with the game and slightly alter what I say next. However, that is not the case when you roleplay past cutscenes.
That aside, I also took the liberty to bold whatever is important in the current situation.
Displeased by their present situation and in no mood to be trifled with, Yellow Jack began to give the armored guards an earful.
"Listen here, you crested dolts! We're not in line with that grimy little gremlin, if that's what you're playing at!" He looked the two of them over, completely unfazed by the authoritative power they probably held. "We came to this miserable country to clean up your mess, and the only reason we're even here in this bilge-ridden pit you call a port is because our good-for-nothing pilot didn't have the foresight to find us a plane that could actually defend itself!" He huffed angrily; as if able to sense his frustration, the bees in his backpack began to buzz feverishly. "Don't you dare start scrutinizing us when we just got blown out of the sky!"
A loud clash of metal is heard as Jusuke tumbles out of the wreckage. His hair is in shambles, but he takes a second to fix it by rapidly slicing at it with two katanas, seemingly drawn from nowhere. Instead of sheathing them, he just flippantly tosses them over his shoulders. Then, he directs his attention to the knights, not looking pleased in the slightest. His "DEATH" tattoo begins to flare up and give off a slight vapor as he points towards them with his sleeved hand.
"Hey, Tinsuits. If you're the ones who shot us down, I'll be glad to be be your tourguide to the next life. If not, show us who did and I'll follow suit. Is he this 'Gremlin' you're looking for?"
Jem: This could blow up anytime.
As is usual for many people, Shepard fell asleep in the aircraft.
Not usual for many peope, she stayed asleep throughout the attack.
She is roused by a yelling bee man and bad puns she didn't get.
With a dazed smile, she meekly says "Hey. Don't fight."
Welp, that was a contribution.
The party searched through the supplies during the flight earlier. Inside, they found some starter supplies.
Found 9 Gold Chunks, 5 Potion and 2 Antidotes.
The knights looked on, progressively confused, as they heard the party explain themselves. That was when the King made a gesture to tell the knights to step aside as he approached the party.
King: Ah, yes. We are most delighted to recieve any assistance in this time of need. However, I am concerned of your safety as you are massively outnumbered by the Mechanus Armada.
Just then, a presence approached the party.
Hil: I have a bad feeling about this...
Out of the blue, the 2 knights passed out after feeling a stinging pain in their legs. Crawling over the defeated bodyguards, 2 Slimes and 2 Snakes approached the group.
BATTLE TIME!
Bass-Sama, Boarfanger Man, Ashie and Shepard vs. 1 Slime, 1 Snake [Battle A]
Simon & Finley, Wynn, Jusuke and Harold vs. 1 Slime, 1 Snake [Battle B]
Hil: Stay on your toes, folks! Show these simple creatures what you're made of! I'll try my best to feed you some info using the scanners on your headsets.
That's right! Whenever you encounter a new enemy type, they will be recorded by Mission Control. Be on the lookout for important information within his flavour text!
Monster Log:
Slime:
You know these pests. Always trying to chew on your toes! Anyway, they're quite easy; just note their body structure absorbs shock. Wonder how Mechanus has managed to scare them out of the wild, though...
Snake:
A legless reptile that strikes fear in the hearts of many... I have nothing significant to say here. Just be careful of its venom, guys!
As for the battle itself:
-You can perform a basic attack to deal out a weak non-elemental strike. This also recovers 1 point of ENR.
-You can use your skills.
-Items can give you an edge in battle, but equipment change cannot be done mid-battle without the proper skill.
-Defend your allies for that turn if necessary. You can guard one ally and take their blow, splitting the damage dealt. Keep in mind that this uses up a turn and depends on your INT, so if you are slower than all enemies on field, you basically wasted a move.
-When in a pinch or making a plan, switch out with other teammates, although it only works if allies are in the same general area and depends on INT. If multiple battles happen in the same area, you can also have party members on the field switch between battles!
Oh, yeah, I should also point out that the p stands for money.
"Hah! Some guards they were! Roll up pointing fingers and they get taken down by those? Think you might want to reinvest in your personnel, king." Wynn turned to one of the snakes on the battlefield with a new, almost maniacal glint in his eyes.
"Let me show you how a real predator gets things done."
Grab-Strike > Snake
The rogueish ronin's DEATH tattoo continues to glow, then one by one, the letters peel from his arm, leaving slight tan marks. They then orbit around him slowly.
Jusuke then points towards the slime.
"Those who are unfit to bear these marks are unfit to continue. By the Patron, be judged!"
The letters then launch one by one towards the slime.
Mark for Death > Slime B
Boarfanger Man finally has a chance to prove his fighting skill...
...Against aliens?
Shaking off his initial confusion, Boarfanger Man prepares for battle. There is simply no time for anything too flashy; so he decides to do a simple jumping strike at the Small Quiet Plateless Najarala
Attack > Snake A
Hearing small footsteps with the sound of metal jingling together, Bass-Sama turns around to witness a bandit trying to rob him of his money. The bandit draws a sword from their belt while Bass draws his from the holder on his back
Defend > Bandit
"I just said no fighting!"
Indignantly, Shepard calls forth a horrible claw to slash at the new foes. It is quite literally the stuff of nightmares.
"Go to bed!"
Nightmare Swipe > Snake
Camila: Seems like our companions are under attack. We should help them immediately.
Jem: What? Just 2 slimes and 2 snakes? Our "friends" got this. But I'm sure they sent those weak critters just to scout this place after they took down our ride.
Camila: So if Mechanus' forces know we're here, they could send something much bigger.
Jem: You learn fast, girl.
Camila: Them we must make sure nobody else can report our position.
Jem: Huh, I was going to suggest abandoning these folks now but... Your choice.
Camila (through headset): Squad, I will scout this area to make sure nobody is spying on us. Please call for help if you need it!
Carefully scout the area.
No way I'm touching this thing... gross-
And they're no use for my research either, damn weaklings!
Machine Gun > Slime
Camila: Squad, I will scout this area to make sure nobody is spying on us. Please call for help if you need it!
Hil: Good call.
With that, Camila investigated the area. Everything was seemingly quiet, as if the snakes and slimes were the only things present...
... until the party was approached by a stranger!
Hil: Guys! I think we recorded mysterious entity. Be wary of their intentions!
Hil: DATA GET!
Slime:
You know these pests. Always trying to chew on your toes! Anyway, they're quite easy; just note their body structure absorbs shock. Wonder how Mechanus has managed to scare them out of the wild, though...
Snake:
A legless reptile that strikes fear in the hearts of many... I have nothing significant to say here. Just be careful of its venom, guys!
Battle A
A mysterious stranger has entered the battle!
Boarfanger Man attacks Snake!
23 damage
"HEY NO ONE DENIES ME OF MY CHICKEN MCNUGGIES"
The mysterious stranger tries to rob Bass-Sama!
Bass-Sama defends himself...
It failed! Bass-Sama got a bit of loose change stolen as the stranger runs off with it. Oh well...
Hil: Focus on the battle! We'll deal with that later, but for now, we need to defend the King.
Snake attacks Shepard!
The attack missed
Ashie uses Machine Gun on Slime!
Hit 3 times! 9 + 9 + 9 = 27 damage
Shepard uses Nightmare Swipe on Snake!
35 damage to Snake
9 damage to Slime
Slime attacks Boarfanger Man!
The attack missed
<Boarfanger Man> END 60/60
<Bass-Sama> END 85/85 ENR 80/80
<Ashie> END 75/75 ENR 110/125
<Shepard> END 55/55 ENR 122/140
<Snake> END 22/80
<Slime> END 64/100
Battle B
Harold uses Squirt on Snake!
5 damage
Snake uses Venomous Bite on Wynn!
15 damage
Simon & Finley use Overbearing on Snake!
22 damage
Jusuke uses Mark for Death!
Slime is Marked!
Slime attacks Simon & Finley!
12 damage
Wynn uses Grab-Strike on Snake!
The attack missed
<Harold> END 100/100 ENR 120/130
<Simon & Finley> END 108/120 ENR 54/70
<Jusuke> END 65/65 ENR 97/110
<Wynn> END 140/155 ENR 82/100
<Snake> END 53/80
<Slime> END 100/100 (Marked)
The flying letters enter the slime one by one with a series of splats. The word "DEATH" now floats inside the slime. No matter how much it jiggles, whether in fear or amusement, typeface bold text stays in place.
Producing a sword, Jusuke then hurls it towards the newly marked target.
Attack > Slime
It was probably thrill that clouded Wynn's eyes as Aspus's arm shot through the air. He counted down the distance to his target with unprecedented excitement. 3 meters... 2 meters... 1 meter...
...Nothing.
"Gh?!"
His attack grasped at air. Instead of a powerful two-parter throw like he had anticipated, the snake had actually acted before him and dealt damage to his arm. Wynn stood completely in shock for a moment before regaining his composure.
I should have expected this, he thought to himself. It's been too long since I've done any real fighting. Aspus has gotten slow and clunky. I should've followed his advice and practiced controlling her more. Hmm...
Wynn scanned the battlefield. His former target was looking pretty worse for wear, but the slime alongside it seemed perfectly fine (aside from the word DEATH floating inside it). He clenched his fist with new vigor.
Keep cool this time. Remember what he said. I've got this power, but unfocused noise is wasted. I should cut the flashy stuff and see what Aspus is still capable of.
Attack > Slime
The gelatinous blob's attempted assault was no match for a well placed roll. Good thing he wields a light weapon.
But it seems that the Small Snake Wyvern, or rather, "Snake" will go down in one more well placed strike.
"Focus on the blob. I'm gonna take this thing down."
Trusting in himself, Boarfanger Man goes in for the kill.
Attack > Snake
Before Shepard unleashed her nightmare claw, the snake bit her chair. It likely thought it was part of her.
It was wrong. It was also slashed by horrible nightmares. The slime got hit a bit as well; misery loves company.
Shepard continues speaking to the snake under the likely false assumption it could understand her:
"First you take out those nice knights, and then you attack me?!"
A boar man dodges the slime then leaps at the snake.
"Know what, snake? Have fun with that."
Shepard aims her next claw at the slime.
"As for you, you attacked my new friend."
Nightmare Swipe > Slime
Useless beings have no right to bother me! die already dammit!
Ashie reloads quickly and gets in one knee, aiming directly
Machine Gun > Snake
Bass-Sama chases after the bandit but not before he steps on a slime, becoming immobile for a few turns
Bass-Sama - Paralyzed for the next 2 rounds.
"*Yawn* Let's wrap this up, huh?"
Shepherd lethargically tosses her knife at the slime.
"You'll uh... pay... for making a friend step in you... zzz...."
Attack > Slime
Rolling out of the way once more of the Slime, Boarfanger Man was feeling a rush.
After silencing the Snake, he decided to get the first hit on the Amorphous Blob, that he would certainly crush...
...While trying to forget that Bass just stepped on it. What a sand-swimming whale.
Attack > Slime
Jusuke teleports behind the slime, ready to send his regards. However, he can't help but utter the words, "hmph,
nothing personnel."
Blowing his cover, the slime then reacts by splitting in two to avoid the incoming slash, then reforms harmlessly.
Mildly annoyed, Jusuke teleports once more...
Execute > Slime
After taking out those... alien creatures, Boarfanger Man did what a hunter usually does when he defeats a monster.
Carve something out of the monsters.
Hunting Knife > Snake
Battle B
Auto-Move:
Harold attacks Slime!
8 damage
Auto-move:
Simon & Finley attack Slime!
18 damage
Jusuke uses Execute on Slime!
The attack missed
Slime attacks Wynn!
The attack missed
Wynn attacks Slime!
24 damage
Slime is defeated!
Victory!
Harold earns 20 EXP!
Simon & Finley earn 20 EXP!
Jusuke earns 20 EXP!
Wynn earns 20 EXP!
After taking out those... alien creatures, Boarfanger Man did what a hunter usually does when he defeats a monster.
Carve something out of the monsters.
Boarfanger Man only managed to saw off the fangs from one of the snakes when suddenly, the defeated monsters started vibrating vigorously, catching the hunter off-guard...
Obtained 2 Snake Fangs!
Plastic-like cracking noises could be heard from the defeated snakes and slimes. After a quick pop, broken devices emerged from the hostile creatures, leaving piles of shattered metal on the ground. After recovering, the snakes and slimes fled the scene, seemingly confused.
Hil: That was a bit strange... Those things usually fight on relentlessly...
The king, now safe from threats, went on to congratulate the party.
King: Splendid job, travelers! I now understand that you all are more than capable of taking on the invaders. Please follow me. I need to show you around.
The party followed the king to a town near the port. There were armies of knights patroling the area, a few posted near a large bulletin board.
Knight 1: Welcome back, your majesty.
Knight 2: What has happened to the others, and who are those folks?
King: A pleasure to know my subjects are safe. I will send a medical unit to help the defeated soldiers. As for this group, they were sent to neutralize the threat.
Knight 1: Very well, sire.
Knight 2: Good timing! The scouts are coming with more information.
Just then, a troop of ninjas with black garbs come to the scene, carrying a large, rolled-up paper which they proceeded to unfold.
King: Travelers, meet the Tuberus military scouts. All this time, they have been collecting intel in secret to find weak points in Mechanus' forces.
Scout 1: Well met. Your majesty, we have finally found out the military formations of the Mechanus Armada!
Scout 2: It seems that their army is divided into 4 cardinal sectors, each one with specialised units.
Scout 3: If only we can decapitate the army...
King: Travelers, you displayed splenind abilities back at the port. I believe you have the potential to carry out this task. Scouts, please display the details on this board.
Pasting the large sheet, the scouts began to elaborate on the primary tasks to defeat Mechanus:
>The first cardinal sector is over at Tuberus Castle, where an army had taken over, forcing our king to be on the run. Defeat them and help us take back the Castle!
>Mechanus has claimed out largest and most abundant mine, the perpetually-frozen Glacio Cavern. The raw materials there can be deadly if they fall into the wrong hands!
>A major town has been taken over. Only a few escaped, while the rest had to live under harsh conditions at the hands of the sector. Crush them and end their tyrannical regime!
>Apparently a relatively-new sector, we saw Mechanus himself wandering a desert just away from the shore with a fraction of his army. A new base of operations is being built there. Handle the situation because it can be dangerous if left unchecked!
King: While you all are at it, our citizens are in dire need of assistance. Although we are doing out best, we would appreciate it greatly if you all can help the citizens out.
The king pointed to another part of the board, showing various requests posted by the populace of the land.
>Tuberus Health Bureau: Mechanus has set up a machine near an area with civilains. We concern for their wellbeing.
>Cpt. Eli: You think you got what it takes to take down the invasion? Come to the place I work in at these coordinates! ...
>Fracto Settlement: Our town is under attack! We call for a calvary to assist the falling army!
>General Store: The Mechanus army has blocked the delivery route for supplies. Please help for we need to provide for the refugees.
King: I herad that your transport has broken down too. We might look into that as well.
With 4 primary quests and 4 other missions on their hands, the party made their choice...
Alright guys. Time to get into the meat & bones of the game at last! In the bottom of the second spoiler, it's up to you all to decide which level you'd like to tackle first.
Your END and ENR have been restored. This will happen whenever you return to hub here.
Camila: I don't think we have enough power to try any of the primary tasks for now. The Fracto Settlement request seems like a good start.
Shepard thinks aloud
"Military strategy? ...can't say I know a lot about that."
"I see we're also deciding peoples' fates. We better not screw this up-
is that an ice cavern and a desert? Ugh, I'm not built for the elements..."
"That Fracto place getting attacked looks urgent. We wanna keep body counts low right? Yeah it could be a diversion... but it's a good one."
After having discussed their choices, the party made their final decision. Just before they departed, the king called out to them.
King: Hold on! Before you travelers leave, be sure to make ample preparations. My subjects may have something to offer which may help you in your journey.
King: Unfortunately, you will be charged for their goods and services. Even in this crisis, business runs like normal in order to make funds for living in this harsh condition. I hope you can co-operate with us.
King: That being said, I wish you all luck on your journey!
With that, the party left for their first adventure. Located around the town, several shops caught the interest of the group:
>Fendrel Pharmacy: Named after a famous healing prodigy of old, this facility sells a variety of healing potions and also offers free medical advice.
>Souvenir Store: Has a collection of expensive trinkets. For some reason, these trinkets exert an aura of power...
>Node's Gearmaking: Some kind of special blacksmith/mechanic shop which specialises in high-tech equipment.
>Yamamoto's Dojo: A well-revered training facility. Maybe we could learn a thing or 2 here.
>Strange Items Collector: Experts at naming a price, they can be given unwanted items in exchange for money.
>General Store: The door has a large "CLOSED" sign, and someone was looking through the window...
Yep. Welcome to the hub world, folks! You can leave right away, or you can take a look at the shops.