Hey, life happens. Thanks for the notice. I'll admit my hopes were crushed slightly, but it's cool. Take your time. Just come back. Please? I hate it when these things just abruptly end midway through.
My hopes were crushed, my love dashed, and my yearning soul has been shattered as if a pane of glass against a hammer... nah I'm just messing. Stuff happens; take your time and try to make the best of what life tosses your way. I can wait for one of the best adventures I have read!
Thank you all for waiting patiently, and don’t worry: This story will never die due to my unwillingness to continue. Also, if you haven't, please check the "choices" section for information on the "Pending choice", and make sure to see the END OF THE POST on whether you would like to keep it or not.
“Amarant: Unknown Path” resumes now!
Results:
D, B x5
C x1
Roll over and retrieve your knife, stabbing your enemy in the torso.
Minor: If necessary, grab a handful of dirt and toss it at your assailant as you try and wriggle free.
There you lay, stomach to the ground, and an unknown enemy upon your back. A few strands of auburn hair hang in front of your eyes, cast down by the sudden shove, and your fingers dig in the dirt, your palms planted next to either shoulder. Your mind reels from the unexpected assault from behind and you try and focus on some sort of plan. While there is another individual, you focus on the one currently sitting on top of you.
While the attack from behind was unexpected you were already on edge while it happened and, even as you fell, started to formulate a plan of action. Knowing that with your back to the enemy you’re useless, you decide you must try and flip yourself over. Once you’re on your back you can probably reach the small knife near the buckle and stab your attacker, removing him, and then turning to deal with the other one, if he is hostile as well.
You push off the ground with your left hand as hard as you can, trying desperately to flip your torso around. Your legs flail in the process as your hips actually start to gain purchase and turn under the weight on your back. You lift up your torso so that you bend at the waist and manage to lodge your forearm underneath, your elbow digging into the soil as it keeps you steady. Your hips turn a bit more now so that they’re vertical and you start to feel hands roam over your form.
They don’t seem to have any particular aim, simply flailing in a manner that may keep you from twisting beneath them. Your body now almost completely flipped over, you swing your left arm between the two of you, trying your best to ward off the limbs. Your feet lash out as you try to shift your body, the sudden motions wrenching your hips so that you may lie on your back. It’s as you dig your elbow into the dirt and give a final push that you actually manage to see the face of your aggressor through red strands and thrashing arms.
The man, if you could even call him that, has grey skin. At first you think it was due to the lack of light, but you quickly realize that it is his actual skin color. His matted and mottled hair swings back and forth as you continue to fend of his sluggish, yet constant, attacks. The brown mop is above a face that seems old, the eyes sunken, and the mouth hanging open, only producing the occasional groan of exertion.
You land on your back, your duster twisted around your form, and are now face to face with this “man”. You glance at him again through the fury of flesh and nail, and see that his eyes are lifeless, almost as if the pupils don’t really look at you but instead through you. You don’t quite know what ails this man, but at least his sluggish arms are easy for you to defend against.
You bat and block each one as it brings arm after pummeling arm down on top of you. Even so, each blow is a painful impact upon your forearms and you’re almost caught off-guard as he starts to grasp your sleeve and shirt as well, almost ripping the ladder. You can’t go on like this for too long and remind yourself of the knife hidden between the folds of your belt just below your stomach. Unfortunately, as you look down, you see a small complication arise.
The man and all of his weight sit upon your belt. This isn’t too much of a problem, confident you could slip your hand under him and retrieve the knife. The real problem, however, is the man’s complete lack of clothing and your urge to keep your hand away from the man’s impressive member, which now, lies idly across your stomach. You reel a bit at the sight, but try your best to stay focused on the current predicament. With the way his legs are positioned at the moment it would take quite an effort to reach either your revolver or your short-sword; your knife seems to be the best option at this point. You can retch at the thought later, now you have to retrieve your knife and free yourself.
You hold your left arm above your face and try to cover all avenues of attack as your other arm moves closer towards the man’s crotch. You hesitate, the thought of putting your hand near that thing making you pause. You can see it in all its repulsive detail: the grey length itself must measure at least six inches long and that’s when it’s lax. The hair above appears unwashed and his ball-sack lies right on top of your belt buckle, the mass of flesh pressed against where your knife resides.
You could reach for it or you can try to acquire another one of your weapons. With his legs wrapped around your form and pinning your twisted duster the way it is, it’ll be difficult to retrieve either of the weapons bound to your belt. Your bag's strap is still wrapped, rather tightly at this point, around your chest and the bag itself lies to your right side. Of course, when it comes down to it, simply reaching under the flaccid member in front of you is probably the easiest way of arming yourself.
Choices:
Decide on a course of action.
Primary Vote:You may choose more than 1... but I cannot promise they'll work in tandem.
Pending Decision: Reach for the Knife and stab him in the torso.
(Pending Options = will be used if a re-vote is not made within 24 hours of the post. In other words: Unless someone votes for something else, the story will follow the pending choice.)
A) Continue with your plan and reach for the knife, stabbing your assailant in the torso. B.) Try to grab your revolver instead and... -1) Threaten the man, hoping the sight of the gun will make him back off. -2) Shoot him. C) Try to crawl back and shift the man's groin away from your belt, grabbing the knife as soon as it's away. D) Reach for your short sword and try to brandish it against him. E) Attempt to reach inside your bag/pouches and use another one of your items to help you. (Which?) F) Struggle and buck frantically hoping to shake him off. G) Lash out at your opponent, brandishing your fists and hoping you can punch him off of you. H) Scream for help!
X) Other.
Pending Minor Action: "Grab a handful of dirt and throw it at them while you try to wiggle away."
(Pending Options = will be used if a re-vote is not made within 24 hours of the post. In other words: Unless someone votes for something else, the story will follow the pending choice.)
Z) Minor Action. Available.
---
Minor Actions Explanation:
Minor Actions are small actions you may do in addition to your Primary Vote (A, B, C, etc.). They will usually just provide you with additional information or perhaps, in rare circumstances, an item. If it would cause an encounter or runs the risk of causing general havoc then it's best to put it as an additional detail under primary vote.
Examples are asking someone a simple question, inspecting an object or feature in the environment, checking on or using an item in your bag, or changing some feature on your person. (i.e. Putting your hair into ponytail - See: Sections explained > Appearance)
They may help you, but please, try not to abuse the system. Trying to examine a couple objects in detail may be fine, but picking every item off the shelf in a store can get a bit... tedious.
And as always: I retain the right to reject them however much it may pain me to do so...
STATS:
Current Inventory:
Gold: 8
-Ticket from Hangsmire to Novo. 2nd Class.
-Ticket from Bayton to Respeiro. 1st Class.
-Ticket from Novo to Bayton. 3rd Class.
-Red Discrete Crystal x3
-White Discrete Crystal x2
-Note from “J”
-Bundle of Rope with treble Hook on end.
-Lock-pick.
-Metallic Brooch (Type:?)
-Blood Stained Blouse. Torn.
-Leather Dress-Boots.
-Compass.
-Healing Potion. Will heal all but the most brutal of wounds.
-Goblin Potion. Unknown Effect.
-Small container of water. Professionally Made.
-Goblin Necklace. Golden chain. Pendant adorned with runes and a magnificent Ruby.
-Waterskin. Half filled with some sort of alcoholic beverage. Seems to be wine.
-Large round.
Weapons:
-Revolver. Single Action. Single load. Holds Six Rounds.
-Rounds: x3 (3 in Cylinder)
-Goblin (short)Spear. 5' long. Wooden shaft with secured dagger as blade.
-Small skinning knife. 2 inch blade. Notched in belt.
-Short-sword
Apparel:
-Belt & Holster. Knife tucked between belt folds.
-Small Belt-Pouch 1: Contains - Shards of Metal. Can be used as caltrops. Recoverable.
-Small Belt-Pouch 2: Contains - Healing Potion. Goblin Potion.
-Duster. Down to calves. Khaki. Cut on right sleeve.
-Skirt. Down to ankles. Black. Couple of tears, some making your legs visible.
-Shirt. Buttoned.
-Vest. Dark Leather. A bit shrunken.
-Sturdy Boots. Brown Leather.
-Leather dress Gloves. Brown.
-Bra. Black. Silk.
-Underwear. Black lace. Silk.
-Stockings. Transparent. Black. Slightly torn.
Abilities/Effects:
- Amnesiac: You have lost your memory and have little understanding of the world.
- Revolver Training: "It ain't much but you're a natural" -Tinder
- ”Quite the Bust”: Your vest adds a certain appeal to your bosom.
- "..."
- Hungry: You find yourself a bit famished. You're not starving but you're not content either.
Physical Appearance:
-Red/Auburn Hair: Little longer than “Shoulder Length”. Messy, but clean. Bedraggled look.
-Height: ~5’ 7”
-Small cut on right arm. Almost healed.
-Small cut on left cheek. Almost healed.
-Bullet wound scar on left abdomen.
Crystal explanations can be found in the first post.
Explanation of Sections:
A "*" next to the "STATS" title will denote that there has been a modification since the last post.
A blue + will denote that an item has been gained.
A red - will denote that an item has been lost or destroyed.
Current Inventory: What you have with you.
Weapons: Objects that may be used to inflict harm on opponents. Note, that these are your primary means of damaging an enemy in combat but you may use other items you possess or objects in the environment in creative ways. This includes your bare hands and feet.
Apparel: Clothes that are currently being worn. Any damage will be detailed as well. Clothing not being worn will be held in your inventory. A “???” symbol denotes the knowledge of it being worn, but no specific details are known.
Abilities/Effects:Special abilities possessed by the character. Some may be directly linked with items/pieces of clothing. Also lists passive effects present upon the character, including passive skills and negative conditions.
Physical Appearance: A basic overview of the physical features of your character. Some aspects may be altered via a minor action if necessary requirements are met (Tying hair up into a ponytail), or against the character’s will depending on the nature of the alteration.
READ BELOW V
Also, Yay or Nay for Pending Choice system? In other words, this can be a decision for "Easy" or 'Hard" mode, if you want to look at it that way.
-If you guys go against it, updates will be bundled together more often and situations such as this: We would have already got the knife and stabbed our foe and be making another decision.
-But, if you decide to vote for it... updates will be broken apart like this to allow more mid-combat decision making, in favor of an easier and less-challenging experience, yet, also a somewhat slower pace in the story.
If it does not garner enough support then I will opt in favor of scraping it and using my good sense of pacing and challenge to break the action as seen in the skirmish in the cargo car on the train.
Given my avatar, you may know what choice I lean towards.
Either way, please be aware that this system will only really be used when you guys select multiple options at a time(as seen above). If it's a normal A, B, or C choice, then that choice will unfold as choices have been for the previous 30+ some posts.
I like the idea of us deciding on each action during the battle because I feel like a lot of times in some CYOAs, we make one decision and then the battle just goes way out of our hands because the character makes 5 decisions by themselves after only one of our decisions. I know this is harder work for you but it makes it feel like I have more control of what the character will do.
A Since its a zombie, pain isn't going to stop it. Try to use the knife to cut the zombie's throat.
Most of these options can potentially end in disaster, so I'll go with the sensible C.
As for the choice system, I like hard mode and I prefer the pace at which the story has progressed. With that said, I feel that the new system would be appropriate is some circumstances or encounters, especially when things do not go our way and we have a moment to consider a different course of action.
So, maybe not scrap it entirely but introduce it as a sort of panic measure? And instead of making the encounter easier, it would only serve to provide a very slim opportunity for us to turn the tables.
Seeing as it's probably a zombie of sorts, anything but debiliating strikes won't slow him in the slightest, but it's also dumb as dirt. That means that our best bet lies with A&C. Shift the zombie far away enough to get in a proper strike, preferably someplace vital for movement, seeing that a stab in the gut probably won't do much to him, while severing arm/leg muscle makes for a much fairer fight.
Read spoiler for my thoughts about choice from now on, it's pretty long otherwise.
As far as choice options go:
I'm not against > 1 vote per fight, but I'd prefer something akin to this:
We choose our option, it usually has an expected outcome.
Target unimportant and result as expected? Vote gets written, action happens and we move on.(Generic bandit appears, we choose shoot, we hit...Bandit dies and we get our next vote about what to do with the dead bandit, for example.)
We choose our option, outcome deviates from expected?
Option to change mid-way, but not at a point trying to change said option is moot already.(E.G. bandit appears, we choose shoot, we miss and a meteorite lands on our toe, new vote to deal with a -new- situation, rather than we choose shoot, we miss, meteorite, we suddenly get a vote in which the bandit is already on our face with a gun to our head, that's rather late for a new choice.)
We choose our option, character is important or strong or w/e in a way?
Midway-option to edit if we so desire.
Our vote entails more than one action, e.g. our smithy loot trip that devolved into a fight?
Midway option to continue our choice, to prevent things like our blacksmith loot-trip from happening again(I'm not sure if others disliked that one as well, but I felt the addition of being forced into that fight near the lantern? to be pretty cheaply tacked on.)
I believe that it makes for enough choice to give us a fair chance to change unexpected events around, while also keeping the pace high by keeping unimportant fights/events somewhat shorter. It -does- however rely a lot on what Cevrik believes to be reasonable, but I'm sure that if stuff goes wrong we can point it out and make it a learning experience.
Final note to cevrik: You could just collect all our input from this question, pick a style/suggestion you like and give it a whirl for a couple of choices and then ask for feedback.
Most of these options can potentially end in disaster, so I'll go with the sensible C.
As for the choice system, I like hard mode and I prefer the pace at which the story has progressed. With that said, I feel that the new system would be appropriate is some circumstances or encounters, especially when things do not go our way and we have a moment to consider a different course of action.
So, maybe not scrap it entirely but introduce it as a sort of panic measure? And instead of making the encounter easier, it would only serve to provide a very slim opportunity for us to turn the tables.
Oh, Tass, you’ve always been one to make such a compelling argument. =P
Results:
As far as the the "pending decision" goes and all that: After getting your feedback, I'm just going to try and play it by ear as usual, WHILE making sure to be a bit smarter about certain issues. I mean, I think the only real glaring error here is the whole "Going straight from scavenging the blacksmith to being ambushed" fiasco. As long as we don't have a repeat of that I will use this as a very rare "panic-mode" for the middle of combat: If a decision backfires due to some tactic the enemy employs (which I will try and hint at), then I may use this as an option to allow us to recover, IF the situation allows.
Overall I think that will satisfy everyone... just so long as I don't go and screw you guys over.
----------
C & A, but aim for the arms and throat.
“You can get it…”. At least, this is what you tell yourself. Your body, on the other hand, is too focused on that thing in front of you. You feel as though you would be fine normally but, between the wild assault to your upper body and the grotesque organ lying on your stomach, you can’t focus enough to simply grab the knife.
You bring your other arm back up to help fend off the man’s blows. Fortunately, his attacks are wild and uncoordinated; his forearms and open palms pelting you more than closed fists. His mouth still hangs agape, the occasional droplet of saliva whipping around onto his face or sliding over and down his chin. He doesn’t seem to even look at you throughout the assault, having you in his peripheral view apparently enough during his onslaught.
You continue to keep his arms away from your face and chest as you dig your heels into the dirt. The semi-moist ground gives a bit but, fortunately, your heels gain purchase in the soil. Side to side you twist and shift your hips. Again, and again, you pick up your feet and drive them into the dirt, each stab at the earth another twist of your hips, and each twist another bit of your belt free. You slowly start to slide back, your duster and hair grinding against the dirt and muck beneath you. It shifts and squelches beneath you with each motion, coating both your head and back. You don’t care, though, your only concern now freeing your weapon.
Your arms start to feel bruised from the unrelenting storm of strikes. You are thankful, however, that whatever makes this man as deranged as he is also keeps him from putting too much force behind his attacks. Almost as though the man felt you were too content with the situation, you are reminded of the danger as one of his arms makes it past yours and strikes your chest. You wince as pain floods your breast, the cloth ripping slightly above your left mound. The pain fresh, you redouble your efforts.
After a few more kicks and thrusts, sending clumps of dirt and rocks into the air and into the side of the nearby building, your legs start to straighten out and your belt slides out from underneath the man’s groin. It’s sickening at first, seeing the piece of meat slide down your stomach, but you do not hesitate this time. You reach down with your right arm to grasp the handle of the small skinning knife. It’s not much, but it will suffice. It will have to…
You act on instinct as much as fear, pulling the small piece of metal up, into the path of the man’s arms. You point it towards him, ready to strike but find your opponent doing most of the work for you as he impales and cuts his own arms upon the blade. You can’t help but grimace slightly, the sensation of holding the blade as it passes through the man’s flesh sickening yet, at the same time, almost familiar in a way. Although, it’s mostly due to your assailants own lack of self-preservation, the man, seemingly, unaware of the harm he is causing himself as he willingly throws his own limbs down onto the weapon. You slowly start to realize that whatever condition he suffers from is going to require you to take a more serious approach, and disable the man, simple pain not enough to deter his assault.
As he continues to press his attack, you try to discern a pattern in the chaos. Arm, after fist, after claw, after elbow, after claw, all fall down upon you as thick blood starts to ooze from his wounds, coating your sleeves and gloves. Nothing presents itself as a clear method of attack and you realize that you will simply have to take your chances. You try and steady your breathing, ready to aim for his throat, confident a good strike there will end this. Your blade sinks into his forearm yet again, and, as he lifts it back up to reveal the blood-soaked steel, you lurch forward with both your hands clasped around one another, and let out a cry of exertion.
Your torso sails forth, the tip of your weapon pointed at the base of the man’s neck. The man’s arms fly outwards as your shoulders brush them aside, catching a few streaks of red. Closer and closer the distance draws, until finally, the metal pierces the flesh above his sternum. As he lets out a small groan in response you think about how easily it slides inside, the experience almost tantalizing. The smallest of red lines appear on either side of the blade, almost unnoticeable as it sinks deeper inside his flesh. More and more of the metal disappears until flesh meets both hilt and fist. You are surprised, however, as neither of you stop, instead, finding yourself almost upright. The twisting from earlier was apparently enough to allow you to, not only throw off your attacker, but thrust yourself up and over him, your torso now upright and your clenched fists now shoving him down so that he lies flat. His arms fall above his head and impact with the ground as you come to a stop above him.
Your positions have been reversed, with you on your knees above the deranged individual and your fists still grasping the metal buried in his flesh. Your eyes are wide and you let out a series of ragged breaths, the stress of the past few seconds subsiding and slowly being replaced by relief. Unfortunately, another moan sounds behind you.
You wrench the dagger from its crimson resting place and turn to face the sound, your matted and dirt-covered hair whipping around and clinging to your face. It seems your struggle did not go unnoticed and the other man has already been making his way towards you for a while now. He’s only a few feet away and will be upon you momentarily. Luckily, you’re a little more prepared this time, already facing your enemy and ready for their attack. His movements seem as slow as the last one and his steps aren't exactly fast either. You could probably take him on easily but you're still unsure as to what affects these men, the wild, almost berserk like, assault by the man at your feet still making you uneasy...
Choices:
Decide on a course of action.
Primary Vote:You may choose more than 1... but I cannot promise they'll work in tandem.
A) Charge the new enemy and engage him in melee with... (Decription) B) Hold your ground, waiting until he makes a move and then countering by... (Description) C) Don't risk another close combat encounter and simply shoot him before he reaches you. D) Reach inside your bag/pouches and use another one of your items to help you. (Description) E) Flee (You can head further into the town, back the way you came or dash down one of the alleys. For reference, the alley you were attacked from is behind you, and the way you came from is to the right. The man is in the middle of the street and in between you and the lantern.)
X) Other.
Z) Minor Action. Available.
---
Minor Actions Explanation:
Minor Actions are small actions you may do in addition to your Primary Vote (A, B, C, etc.). They will usually just provide you with additional information or perhaps, in rare circumstances, an item. If it would cause an encounter or runs the risk of causing general havoc then it's best to put it as an additional detail under primary vote.
Examples are asking someone a simple question, inspecting an object or feature in the environment, checking on or using an item in your bag, or changing some feature on your person. (i.e. Putting your hair into ponytail - See: Sections explained > Appearance)
They may help you, but please, try not to abuse the system. Trying to examine a couple objects in detail may be fine, but picking every item off the shelf in a store can get a bit... tedious.
And as always: I retain the right to reject them however much it may pain me to do so...
STATS:*
Current Inventory:
Gold: 8
-Ticket from Hangsmire to Novo. 2nd Class.
-Ticket from Bayton to Respeiro. 1st Class.
-Ticket from Novo to Bayton. 3rd Class.
-Red Discrete Crystal x3
-White Discrete Crystal x2
-Note from “J”
-Bundle of Rope with treble Hook on end.
-Lock-pick.
-Metallic Brooch (Type:?)
-Blood Stained Blouse. Torn.
-Leather Dress-Boots.
-Compass.
-Healing Potion. Will heal all but the most brutal of wounds.
-Goblin Potion. Unknown Effect.
-Small container of water. Professionally Made.
-Goblin Necklace. Golden chain. Pendant adorned with runes and a magnificent Ruby.
-Waterskin. Half filled with some sort of alcoholic beverage. Seems to be wine.
-Large round.
Weapons:
-Revolver. Single Action. Single load. Holds Six Rounds.
-Rounds: x3 (3 in Cylinder)
-Goblin (short)Spear. 5' long. Wooden shaft with secured dagger as blade. On the ground.
-Small skinning knife. 2 inch blade. In hand.
-Short-sword. Sheathed on left hip.
Apparel:
-Belt & Holster. Secured on right hip.
-Small Belt-Pouch 1: Contains - Shards of Metal. Can be used as caltrops. Recoverable.
-Small Belt-Pouch 2: Contains - Healing Potion & Goblin Potion.
-Duster. Down to calves. Khaki. Cut on right sleeve. Back covered in Dirt. Blood-stained along the arms and shoulders.
-Skirt. Down to ankles. Black. Couple of tears, some making your legs visible.
-Shirt. Buttoned. Small tear above left breast.
-Vest. Dark Leather. A bit shrunken.
-Sturdy Boots. Brown Leather.
-Leather dress Gloves. Brown. Covered in blood.
-Bra. Black. Silk.
-Underwear. Black lace. Silk.
-Stockings. Transparent. Black. Slightly torn.
Abilities/Effects:
- Amnesiac: You have lost your memory and have little understanding of the world.
- Revolver Training: "It ain't much but you're a natural" -Tinder
- ”Quite the Bust”: Your vest adds a certain appeal to your bosom.
- "..."
- Hungry: You find yourself a bit famished. You're not starving but you're not content either.
- Slightly Fatigued: Recent activities have left you somewhat tired.
Physical Appearance:
-Red/Auburn Hair: Little longer than “Shoulder Length”. Messy. Covered in dirt, especially the back. Bedraggled look.
-Height: ~5’ 7”
-Small cut on right arm. Almost healed.
-Small cut on left cheek. Almost healed.
-Bullet wound scar on left abdomen.
Crystal explanations can be found in the first post.
Explanation of Sections:
A "*" next to the "STATS" title will denote that there has been a modification since the last post.
A blue + will denote that an item has been gained.
A red - will denote that an item has been lost or destroyed.
Current Inventory: What you have with you.
Weapons: Objects that may be used to inflict harm on opponents. Note, that these are your primary means of damaging an enemy in combat but you may use other items you possess or objects in the environment in creative ways. This includes your bare hands and feet.
Apparel: Clothes that are currently being worn. Any damage will be detailed as well. Clothing not being worn will be held in your inventory. A “???” symbol denotes the knowledge of it being worn, but no specific details are known.
Abilities/Effects:Special abilities possessed by the character. Some may be directly linked with items/pieces of clothing. Also lists passive effects present upon the character, including passive skills and negative conditions.
Physical Appearance: A basic overview of the physical features of your character. Some aspects may be altered via a minor action if necessary requirements are met (Tying hair up into a ponytail), or against the character’s will depending on the nature of the alteration.
B. Quickly bring out the shortsword, prepare for him to close in and flail at us, then lop off his arms.(Seeing that the last one just blindly flailed it shouldn't be too hard).
E Put away the knife and draw out the short-sword and try to circle around the man and move towards, and enter, the building with the lantern outside it.
Z If possible try to pick up the short spear since having something with a bit of reach might not be bad to have.
B. Quickly bring out the shortsword, prepare for him to close in and flail at us, then lop off his arms.(Seeing that the last one just blindly flailed it shouldn't be too hard).
Your bruised arms pulse in sync with your heartbeat, a painful reminder of what it took to dispatch one of these crazed men, its corpse now at your feet. Now, another one faces you, slowly making its way towards you. Luckily, you are ready to defend yourself this time, your abnormal foe twitching as it approaches you.
You decide to stand your ground, and counterattack when the time is right. While it is tempting to charge first, you still don’t know what this thing is capable off. You go to sheath your knife, ready to switch it out for your short-sword, but notice your spear still lying close by at your feet. Your close encounter with the first brute still fresh in your mind you decide keeping this one at more than arm’s length is a better plan. Knife secured, you quickly reach down and grasp the makeshift polearm, leveling it at your enemy.
Just as with the first one, your opponent doesn’t react to your weapon, the fact that you are simply there apparently all that drives him. He continues forward, arms bent at the elbows and eyes wild. His head slowly tilts and shifts from side to side, leaning and twisting with each step. You start to wonder what exactly has affected these men. Why are they seemingly immune to pain? What makes them so aggressive? Is it connected to their grey skin? These questions, and many more like them roll around in your head. Unfortunately, you don’t have time to think about it anymore, as the man lets out a low groan and shambles forward with a burst of speed, arms now outstretched.
You stand your ground and wait, spear in hand. His movements are more erratic: his entire upper body seems to lean side to side as he flings his legs forward, his feet stomping down violently. You tighten your grip on your spear and visualize the shaft diving straight into his eye-socket. A gruesome thought, but if pain doesn’t affect them then you’ll have to try and kill them outright. Whether they’re still in there or not is irrelevant now: your life is worth more than theirs.
The distance closes between the two of you as the man lurches forward again and again. With only a few feet between the two of you he lets out a much louder groan as his hands tighten into rigid claws. The crazed brute now within range, you lock your eyes onto those of your enemy… and attack.
Your spear thrusts forth, the black wood becoming a blur as your hands propel it forward. The bound dagger cuts through the air, leading the charge as your arms follows through. Your target whips back and forth, the head of this… fiend twisting frantically as it draws closer and closer, and then the gap closes
The tip of your spear plunges into the man’s right eye just as he twists it around, a sickening squelching sound emanating from the impact. The blow is felt all along the length of the spear, your hands clenching the wood even tighter as it strains against its target. The short piece of metal sinks deeper, white and black soon mixing with a dark sanguine. Another groan escapes from his open mouth, this one deep and agonizing. Perhaps they can feel pain. Whatever the answer, these questions will have to wait as you have more pressing matters. Your lips part as you bear your teeth, your brow furrowing as well with the impact.
A sense of victory comes over you and an outside observer might even say you were smiling rather than grimacing: a gladiatrix grinning as she knew she had slain her opponent. But even if you were, it would fade as soon as you realized what was happening, an event you felt long before you actually perceived it…
As the spear buries itself further into the eye of this twisted individual, his head jerks back violently with a loud crack. The crack didn’t come from his neck though, and your eyes widen as you see the wood below the base of the blade start to splinter. Your heart sinks and you try to turn the shaft of the spear to alleviate the strain, but find the damage has been done: With a twist of his head the dagger comes free from the rest of the shaft and remains protruding from his skull. Partially blinded, he now comes at you even more frantic than before. You react as fast as you can recover, throwing the now worthless wooden pole down and reaching for your short-sword.
He lunges at you, his movements even more aggressive than before. Whether that is due to pain or being partially blinded, you can’t tell. Either way, you reach across your body and grasp your sword, brandishing it just as he tries to grapple with you. Your grip tightens on the leather-bound handle and, with a small flash of metal, your arm sails up and severs the man’s arm right below the elbow. The detached half-limb flops to the ground, lifeless, as your arm straightens out, pointed out and behind your right shoulder. Your attacker, however, continues to remain undeterred and continues to moan and groan, clawed hands grasping ever forward. You were ready for this, though.
With the man’s fingernails clawing through the air, mere inches from your face, your left hand whips around to cover the other. Fingers lock over one another and clench tight, the feint sound of leather straining under your grip mixing with that of the spittle-spewing moans of your assailant. Both hands wrapped around the blade’s handle, your arms and stomach tighten as you let out a cry and bring the weapon around, aiming straight for the neck of this ghoul.
One second, two sets of cries fill the air, one disturbed, the other vigorous, the next, they are replaced by the severing of flesh and cutting steel.
You drive the steel forward, your sword making contact with the skin of his neck and then splitting it apart. This is the first time you can remember doing such a thing and yet the sensation, your form as you follow through, it feels correct, almost as though the motion itself was deep-seated in your muscles.
As your blade passes through the last inch of the man’s neck his head lifts up slightly and falls down onto the ground with an audible thud. His arms go limp soon after, along with his legs, his knees then bending and sending the headless torso flopping back onto the ground.
You are left standing there, sword held to your side with both of your hands clasping it as you hunch over, ragged breaths escaping your mouth. Thick red ooze, that you’d be hard-pressed to call blood, clings to your blade. You stare at the corpse in front of you, not even sure of what to think. Eventually, your knees begin to weaken and you find yourself moving forward. Your knees impact with the ground, the dirt softening the blow. Your bottom then falls back to rest with your heels, leaving you sitting on the soft ground in the middle of the road.
One of your hands leaves the sword, leaving it resting there in the open palm of the other. The blade sinks slightly into the dirt, the red blood sliding off and into the soil. Your breathing slowly starts to settle down, adrenaline no longer working through you. You sit there, hands lying on either side, open palms to the sky. Your gaze never leaves the corpse the entire time.
The sight before you was one you would never have expected. One that would have most individuals, let alone someone lost in strange lands, fleeing from in fear: A grey-skinned man, eyes wild with rage, ravenously thrashes at you with tooth and nail, all while a dagger was lodged in his eye. He meant to maim you, kill you, even. This man, no, this monster, came at you and yet the majority of what you felt was surprise at the instability of your weapon, and a small bit of trepidation. You could have ran, but instead you chose to stay and fight.” Why?” you ask yourself. You could have been savagely wounded by this creature.
Questions run through your head, seemingly at random, trying to conjure up some kind of explanation. One, that you very well know, is not there. You don’t cry; doing such a thing seems pitiful to you. No, you simply let a curtain of despondency drape over your shoulders as you rest and recover from the encounter. Still, out of all of this you learned at least one thing: Don’t trust goblin-made weapons.
The mist overhead and throughout the town still gives the area a foreboding quality. Silence fills the street, save for your breathing. The houses around you are as motionless as ever aside from the simple flicker of flames inside the small lantern. You look to it, the only thing that can seem to draw your attention away from the fallen fiend, the orange glow almost comforting as it draws your mind away from thoughts of your past.
It’s a brass box of some kind, the metal formed into a cube, a cylinder on the bottom holding, what you assume is the oil that would keep it lit, lifts the box about an inch off the railing. A glass panel that looks like it can be moved away covers the hole cut in the face closest to you. You still have no idea who this belongs to. It could belong to the two who just attacked you, but you highly doubt it. No, whoever it belongs to was not like them. This time a sense of fear does start to descend upon you. You’re not sure what elicits it more: the fact that there is someone still around or the fact that they’re not like the two men you just dealt with.
As these thoughts occupy your mind a very subtle shuffling sound forms behind you. You don’t hear it, though. You don’t hear the sound of a body sitting up languidly, of flesh lifting itself up and out of the moist soil, of drops of red, congealed blood dripping slowly from open wounds. The mass sits upright, the head twisting towards you, a red line pouring a crimson mix from its neck. It shuffles forward on its knees and then rises, a slow and deliberate series of motions that brings it up and almost on top of you. Its arms reach out towards its target: a mop of auburn hair matted with streaks of mud. Its blood streaked hands rise up, the nine fingers that remain after its last fight clenching into claw-like figures. Closer it comes, step after shambling step carrying this grey figure forward, ready to grasp its prey. Flexing fingers about to find purchase on its quarry, the grey figure can’t help but let out a deep moan, the tantalizing sense of victory still present in its rudimentary mind.
You hear a low cry behind you, a chill that freezes you and the air around you. A frigid shock emanates from your core and you twist around to your left, eyes wide and mouth agape with shock and surprise. You barely have time to register what you see, the gruesome figure from before slowly coming into your peripheral vision. As you twist around, your legs flex and your torso falls to the side, reflexively trying to create as much space between you and the macabre monstrosity hovering over you. Your right arm catches your fall, leaving your prone, yet again. This time, fear does find its way into you, as you don’t have time to bring your sword arm up, the creature’s hands already grasping it. Its entire weight falls down upon you yet again, adrenaline spiking through your form. Its teeth gnash this time, spittle and saliva falling down from its blackened rows of bone to rest on both your duster and shirt. Your weakened form can’t hope to push this thing off of you and, as the teeth draw closer to your face and neck, you start to know this “fear”. Your arms hold it for now but you can feel your muscles start to give, the angle of your elbow becoming more acute.
Then, you are deafened as a loud crack seems to split your head. Your ears ring and you have trouble making sense out of anything, the world going silent as you are left with only a muffled ambience, your, now, uneven breathing the only discernible sound. Adrenaline would flood your system again if it hasn’t already done so earlier. You blink your eyes in an attempt to regain your senses, and your arms continue to push outward. Strangely enough you succeed in pushing against your assailant, finding he no longer pushes down onto your arm, his weight the only force being applied. The man seems to be dead, and as you roll him over onto the ground nearby, you see why.
Strewn across the ground are bits of gore and bone, the origin of which becomes clear as your foe’s corpse rolls onto its back, a gaping hole evident in the side of his skull. It looks more like a fissure, the pieces of bone and blood making it look as though something burst violently from within. You sit up to examine it more closely but stop as you hear a click behind you, a sound you know all too well. You shut your eyes, your breathing the only motion you dare make as you know a firearm is trained on your form. That must have been what killed him. You brace yourself, mentally, knowing that could very well happen in the next few seconds to you as well. Instead of a gunshot, though, you are greeted with a voice.
“Stand" it simply says.
You’re surprised. Not only at the show of mercy, but that the voice is feminine; Not too deep, but still much lower than you’d expect.
You do as the voice instructs, planting your foot down into the dirt and placing a hand on your knee to push yourself up. You didn’t realize how exhausted you were until you actually attempted to stand, the bruising on your arms also making itself known again. You make it halfway up when the voice speaks again.
“Don’t turn. Discard your weapon and raise your arms so that I may perceive your hands clearly.”
You do so, loosening your grip on your sword until it falls to the ground and lifting your arms above your head. You want to turn around; you’ve had enough of unknown enemies being behind you. You can’t risk it, though, knowing full well what could happen. Having followed the instructions, they speak again.
“Tell me: What is your objective here?”
My objective? The question echoes in your mind. You have no objective here, all you want is to leave. Well, that isn’t entirely the truth. You came here to perhaps find a bit of shelter, supplies, maybe even some food. You think you should simply answer the question. But how? They have a gun of some sort trained on you and the wrong answer might just set it off. Still, attacking will almost certainly do the same thing. You actually have the chance at using diplomacy here it may behoove you to take advantage of this opportunity.
Choices:
Decide on a course of action.
Primary Vote:You may choose more than 1... but I cannot promise they'll work in tandem.
A) Answer... (What do you say?) B) Stay Silent and simply stand there, hoping to... (Description) C) Turn around and try to shoot them first. D) Run to cover first and then try to fight them. E) Flee. Run away from them and try to escape this town, risking their gunfire.
X) Other.
Z) Minor Action. Available.
---
Minor Actions Explanation:
Minor Actions are small actions you may do in addition to your Primary Vote (A, B, C, etc.). They will usually just provide you with additional information or perhaps, in rare circumstances, an item. If it would cause an encounter or runs the risk of causing general havoc then it's best to put it as an additional detail under primary vote.
Examples are asking someone a simple question, inspecting an object or feature in the environment, checking on or using an item in your bag, or changing some feature on your person. (i.e. Putting your hair into ponytail - See: Sections explained > Appearance)
They may help you, but please, try not to abuse the system. Trying to examine a couple objects in detail may be fine, but picking every item off the shelf in a store can get a bit... tedious.
And as always: I retain the right to reject them however much it may pain me to do so...
STATS:*
Current Inventory:
Gold: 8
-Ticket from Hangsmire to Novo. 2nd Class.
-Ticket from Bayton to Respeiro. 1st Class.
-Ticket from Novo to Bayton. 3rd Class.
-Red Discrete Crystal x3
-White Discrete Crystal x2
-Note from “J”
-Bundle of Rope with treble Hook on end.
-Lock-pick.
-Metallic Brooch (Type:?)
-Blood Stained Blouse. Torn.
-Leather Dress-Boots.
-Compass.
-Healing Potion. Will heal all but the most brutal of wounds.
-Goblin Potion. Unknown Effect.
-Small container of water. Professionally Made.
-Goblin Necklace. Golden chain. Pendant adorned with runes and a magnificent Ruby.
-Waterskin. Half filled with some sort of alcoholic beverage. Seems to be wine.
-Large round.
Weapons:
-Revolver. Single Action. Single load. Holds Six Rounds.
-Rounds: x3 (3 in Cylinder)
-Goblin (short)Spear. -Broken
-Small skinning knife. 2 inch blade. In belt.
-Short-sword. On ground.
Apparel:
-Belt & Holster. Secured on right hip. Knife between buckle folds.
-Small Belt-Pouch 1: Contains - Shards of Metal. Can be used as caltrops. Recoverable.
-Small Belt-Pouch 2: Contains - Healing Potion & Goblin Potion.
-Duster. Down to calves. Khaki. Cut on right sleeve. Back covered in Dirt. Blood-stained along the arms and shoulders.
-Skirt. Down to ankles. Black. Couple of tears, some making your legs visible.
-Shirt. Buttoned. Small tear above left breast.
-Vest. Dark Leather. A bit shrunken.
-Sturdy Boots. Brown Leather.
-Leather dress Gloves. Brown. Covered in blood.
-Bra. Black. Silk.
-Underwear. Black lace. Silk.
-Stockings. Transparent. Black. Slightly torn.
Abilities/Effects:
- Amnesiac: You have lost your memory and have little understanding of the world.
- Revolver Training: "It ain't much but you're a natural" -Tinder
- ”Quite the Bust”: Your vest adds a certain appeal to your bosom.
- "..."
- Hungry: You find yourself a bit famished. You're not starving but you're not content either.
- Slightly Fatigued: Recent activities have left you somewhat tired.
Physical Appearance:
-Red/Auburn Hair: Little longer than “Shoulder Length”. Messy. Covered in dirt, especially the back. Bedraggled look.
-Height: ~5’ 7”
-Small cut on right arm. Almost healed.
-Small cut on left cheek. Almost healed.
-Bullet wound scar on left abdomen.
-Arms are heavily bruised, making the tops of your forearms rather sensitive.
Crystal explanations can be found in the first post.
Explanation of Sections:
A "*" next to the "STATS" title will denote that there has been a modification since the last post.
A blue + will denote that an item has been gained.
A red - will denote that an item has been lost or destroyed.
Current Inventory: What you have with you.
Weapons: Objects that may be used to inflict harm on opponents. Note, that these are your primary means of damaging an enemy in combat but you may use other items you possess or objects in the environment in creative ways. This includes your bare hands and feet.
Apparel: Clothes that are currently being worn. Any damage will be detailed as well. Clothing not being worn will be held in your inventory. A “???” symbol denotes the knowledge of it being worn, but no specific details are known.
Abilities/Effects:Special abilities possessed by the character. Some may be directly linked with items/pieces of clothing. Also lists passive effects present upon the character, including passive skills and negative conditions.
Physical Appearance: A basic overview of the physical features of your character. Some aspects may be altered via a minor action if necessary requirements are met (Tying hair up into a ponytail), or against the character’s will depending on the nature of the alteration.
