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« january open log: avaleci »

This is our Open Log for players to have an easy opportunity to tag others and have fun with prompts that deal with current happenings that are not covered by our MANTA Board quests. Sometimes we provide extra quests at the bottom, but oftentimes we just let the MANTA Board cover it. Players are free to include MANTA Board quests in their toplevels!

For your toplevel, please include the following: Character Name | Canon | Armada Choice.

TOPLEVEL DIRECTORY (Updated January 16)

WINTER LODGE

As part of an annual migration of sorts, the three leviathans will journey north where the waters are cold and small icebergs and chunks of ice will float aimlessly. As if serving as a "boundary point," there is a large island called Avaleci. It is a unique place where one half is an active, submerged volcano and the other is a snow-capped mountain. For a few years now it has become a place to serve not only as a waypoint for those traveling through the area, but a tourist vacation destination. It is here the three leviathans will rest, Nogard attaching itself in the black coastal sands where the mountain and volcanic plains meet.

Riding up a special sky gondola will take visitors high up on the mountain to a luxurious winter lodge that will allow anyone to stay in one of their cozy cabins—for a fee, of course. If one cannot pay with cash or treasure, then earning one's stay through labor, such as hunting for cooks or helping clean and assist others is an option.

The lodge itself will provide for most anything visitors may need, from appropriate clothing to gear and equipment for any sports or activities they may wish to partake in the area. Skiing, snowboarding, sledding, bobsledding, snowshoeing, mountain climbing—most everything is available with marked trails and areas that would be safe to partake in such activities. There are also a few special activities visitors may want to try their hand at.

Along with the mountain slopes and the snow covered forests surrounding the lodge, there is a large frozen lake just a small hike up a trail from the lodge. There are also ice caves that some may try to venture through, but should take caution as there are also natural predators and monsters that live in the area.

🎣 Ice fishing. There are two forms of ice fishing: 1) the usual dig through the ice and drop a line into the frigid waters, and 2) have a net ready to try and catch flying fish that will fly over.
⛸️ Skating. Show off your moves! Just stick to the thicker ice, and watch out for anyone trying to play hockey instead.
🌟 Stargazing. Although chilly, there is a designated platform where one can use telescopes or just lie out on the ground to stargaze. Maybe if they're lucky, an aurora borealis will appear to paint the sky with a curtain of colors.
🦇 Snow bats. There are special little white bats whose homes were devastated by a small avalanche not too long ago. There are now rescue efforts to help rebuild their habitat to create hollows for them to build their nest. Form a positive bond and they may gift helpers with a special powdered sugar that falls from their fur.

Although not the tallest mountain in the world, climbing to the peak can be a challenging feat, especially as it includes venturing through some ice caves. The staff try to keep the trails and caves clear of any dangerous animals and monsters, but they still sometimes come through so be careful. However, should one reach the peak, they can collect a special mountain ice crystal that will stay frozen no matter how it gets. Just beware of potential avalanches. There is a magitech system installed to automatically create a special dome shield in certain areas to help protect anyone who can reach the safe spaces in time. But if otherwise caught, rescue efforts will be quick and should be able to pull anyone out to safety.

Finally, there are a number of wildlife and monsters that inhabit the mountains. For the most part they will leave the busy lodge and recreational areas alone, but encounters are inevitable. Territorial mountain goats, ice golems lurking the ice caves, and the occasional yeti may appear. Some may be persuaded to leave peacefully, especially with food. But others may be hostile no matter what. While the lodge would prefer no bloodshed, they understand if it must happen. Otherwise, for hunters looking for game in the wilderness, they will find the usual variety of animals and will need a permit before venturing out.

HOT SPRINGS

Warmed by the volcano, the hot springs are located at the foot of the mountain, where the snow disappears and the terrain is rockier with short cropped grass and valleys before it fades out to the barren volcanic plains beyond. Built a bit simpler compared to the winter lodge, the hot springs' inn is set outdoors where the pools are, but it, too, has special rooms and lodgings for people to enjoy themselves for a relaxing stay (again, for a fee). Because the hot springs are easier to access on foot, the sky gondola starts down there and connects to the winter lodge above.

In terms of amenities, the hot springs have both separated and mixed pools. They are usually well marked, but sometimes pranks happen. There are several located outside with some near lava streams that flow out from the volcanic crater far from the springs, to the ocean. There are invisible, protective barriers to prevent anyone from accidentally touching the lava. All rooms will have their own small private pool. There are also foot baths, saunas, spa and massage rooms, a gaming room, and several food stalls and restaurants for one to dine at.

Of course, just like up on the mountain, there are some "hazards" that those using the larger pools, especially those that are near the lava streams, to be wary of.

🦎 Fire Drakes. Fire drakes are a common sighting around and in the pools. They are for the most part "friendly," in the sense that they won't outright attack unless they are injured first. But they can sometimes crowd the pools, so one may have to gently "shoo" them away.
🥚 Drake eggs. Nests can be found scattered here and there, and the eggs are a delicacy of the island. Blue eggs are safe to harvest as they are unfertilized, just like chicken eggs. Red eggs, however, are considered protected. Should a drake catch anyone trying to take a red one, then all hell will break loose as the entire hoard of drakes will descend to save their egg and the entire springs will shut down until it's settled.
🐧 Waltz of the Penguins. It just so happens this is the time when large flocks of penguins will migrate down for mating season. They usually won't bother anyone as they are more intent in performing special dances to find a partner, which can be beautiful to watch. Or perhaps someone may want to try and play matchmaker. But it isn't unheard of for someone else to catch their eye…

Some unusual activity is happening outside of the springs, and a local environmentalist will run in distress. Ice giants were spotted attacking and trying to collect a special native breed of tortoise. They grow up to be as large as giant boulders, with their shells made of molten rock. They are formidable in their own right, but the ice giants are larger, capable of picking them up and knocking them over. Rescue the tortoises either by guiding them to the safety of the springs or beating back the ice giants (killing is allowed). Save the tortoises and be handsomely rewarded!

Finally, those in Nogard may find their leviathan's choice of stay a bit…warm. They already had to experience witnessing their leviathan turn into a flesh dragon and engulf them in its gut only to be popped back out to the sweltering heat of the volcanic plains. Good luck to anyone who decides to stay in their homes. Elah and Eltrut will be unaffected.

VOLCANO EXPLORATION

Note: All threads involving prompts in this section will count as "quests" and be worth 4pts.

On the other side of Avaleci where the lava is hottest and where there is no cold to ward off the heat is a dangerous terrain where only the brave and more adventurous should go. Make sure to bring plenty of water and anything else that might help beat the heat. Who knows, even a bit of snow might help. There will be several tunneling entrances leading to winding corridors and wide caverns, some even boasting floors of lava, so watch your step! Fortunately, those who are fleet-footed should be able to make it across on the stones.

Within the caverns, there is plenty to discover: from gemstones and fire crystals to fire blossoms (interesting, they look strangely like the winter blossoms only red), and even some old magitech that appears to be broken. Still, there is no one around to tell people not to collect any of it...

🌋 Floor is lava. Getting across the volcanic terrain will require adventurers to hop from safe stone to safe stone to get to the other side of a lava lake. Beware of lava blobs that will shoot lava balls.
🧂 Sulfur smelling salts. Journey deep enough to find a sulfur field, where smelling salts can be harvested to help ease the nightmares brought on by the sleeping curse. However, too much exposure to the smelling salts will leave one feeling hyper energetic to the point of acting sleep deprived.
💎 Fire crystals. These crystals are a hard sought after item as they can be used for a large variety of magitech and even jewelry. However, they are extremely hot to the touch and can even burn if not handled carefully.
💾 Old relics. Scattered throughout the caverns are odd remnants of what appear to be old relics from the past. Researchers and archaeologists have tried to study here before, but due to the dangerous nature of the environment they've been hindered in their efforts. Those who retrieve pieces to return for study will be able to learn and work with the researchers. (note: Players can come up with any kind of relic that could be found here, from old magitech parts to fantasy genre artifacts. We'll ask for submissions during AC, but you are welcome to ask if you're not sure if your idea is okay or not!)

Roaming around the volcanos, especially in the caverns, are small flame sprites that can talk, sing, and dance. They are mischievous little things with a penchant for trouble, and love playing tricks on people, so keep your eyes peeled for them. Be careful, they also have some very sticky "fingers" and will try to steal whatever you might have on you. However, those sticky fingers are also very fiery, and will burn whatever they get their grubby little hands on!

The sprites will lead you on a merry little chase with your items, over lava pools, through winding tunnels, deeper and deeper into the volcano to take their new items to their secret stash of treasures. They will be hard-pressed to give it up, but should one have the charisma or the charm to convince them, they may instead be swayed to return with you if they are promised a comfortable life elsewhere! A large ship, perhaps? Or a fireplace? Away from that "big, scary, flaming animal" that lives further in the volcano.

Guarding the sulfur fields is what one could surmise is the "big, scary, flaming animal" that lives within the deeper depths of the volcano. Should anyone journey too far, they will no doubt hear its hooves thundering throughout the tunnels. Whether you choose to fight this fiery horse or attempt to tame it will be up to you, but it will not be an easy task… Especially upon close inspection it appears to have a few bones sticking and not quite "whole."

There are some odd things about this area with the flaming horse. Not too far is a small cave where what looks to be remains of a broken altar made of obsidian, the ground charred along with bones and bits of fabric. Dark red stains can be made out as well, but is that just the red rock of the volcano, or something else? Other artifacts can be found, such as torn books, stone tablets, but it all seems made within recent years.

More details about the flaming horse:

Attempts to tame the fire horse may be partially successful. If characters manage, one of two things will happen:

The horse will stare at them as if in a daze before it retreats into the lava, stopping its attacks for a short period of time.
The horse will charge off towards where the strange altar is, attempting to break the remaining structure and dig at the markings on the ground. A strange black smoke will appear and it will retreat back in anger before rushing into the lava and disappearing.

Subduing the horse will be very difficult, but we will leave it up to players on what method will work, and whether it is successful. We will ask for AC submissions, as this will unlock a follow-up quest in February.

Flat | Top-Level Comments Only

VOLCANO EXPLORATION

🌋 FLOOR IS LAVA

[The journey alone up the volcanic terrain leading into the mouth of a large cavern had been treacherous, Ketheric having no resources at his disposal to combat the heat alone but was determined on exploring these lands with prospects of bountiful riches. He conquered death itself on more than one occasion, having suffered far worse than scorching warmth like the fiery hells which sought to ensnare him before having arrived here in Escordvi. The Corsairs were keen in their efforts to stake their claim on this leviathan closest to the volcanic entry ways by comparison to the other armadas. Being on one of the first initial scouting parties he was met with friend and foe alike as they all made the arduous path up the mountainside to the lava cavern's entry point.

With the grand mouth of the cavern entrance over the crest of the next hill the Chosen of Myrkul finds himself at a loss when standing on the lava river's edge baring his path after the grueling expedition thus far. His vision narrows on a large set of stones jutting out haphazardly through as the lava weaves about. Looking back over his shoulder the half-elf cannot quite make out the face of the nearest individual though was within shouting distance as he ushered out his one and only warning.]

Heed my call! Do not let this bare you from your desire for riches and glory for if you are meant for greatness you will not falter now!

[A rallying speech worthy of his previous station as the general of the Absolute and countless wars before that, Ketheric turning back towards the nearest large crop of rock a few feet out before thrusting himself forward with momentum to land safely on his mark.]

💎 FIRE CRYSTALS

[Once finally past the infernal lava river which blocked his path leading into the open caverns of the volcanic core he was met with a spectacle not seen in his many lifetimes. Glistening gemstones every which way he glanced littered through the treacherous terrain, a faint glimmer of a sincere smirk graces the edge of his lips in earnest satisfaction for making it this far.

However this was only just the beginning for the real labor was to come now as he and the rest of the brave few who crossed the lava awaited their just rewards. Looking to the illuminated crystal deposit closest he signaled for any followers to join in his excavation now if they sought to achieve their own boon.]

Let us make haste for these radiant crystals will fetch us a small fortune for our rigorous efforts!

🐎 FLAMING HORSE

[Further exploring the depths of the caverns the once glistening walls with crystals galore had become replaced by stagnant lakebeds of silverish yellow liquid and a foul stench. It would have been easy enough to turn and leave now but they have come this far knowing this would not be an easy venture. If such riches as the gemstones laid within the large caverns what treasures could lie in within these murky depths? Those who were confident enough to come this far were not backing down without unravelling the mysteries in store for them.

Into the far reaches of the sulfur fields now one wrong move could mean their doom, Ketheric ever on his guard as he crept carefully through the rugged terrain. A burst of flames flickers out of the corner of his eye as one of the pools of sulfur light ablaze as his gaze sets upon a rather daunting sight. A massive creature with fiery limbs comes barreling towards their direction causing the normally stoic look over his features to wain in distress. Hiding behind one of the large stalagmites the Chosen of Myrkul signaled for any and all who could see him to quiet themselves, voice little louder than a whisper as he made his intentions perfectly clear.

Upon recollection of his memories Ketheric knew this beast to resemble that of a fiendish Nightmare; A demonic horse from hell itself said to inflict untold dread to those who dare oppose it. Though it perhaps was not one in the same they bore striking similarities and warranted digression unto his temporary allies.]

This creature is known to me...A beast of the hells themselves we should not take this foe lightly for it will not be an easy task to eliminate.

HOT SPRINGS

🐢SAVE THE TURTLES

[After having returned successfully from his trip in the underbellies of the volcanic leviathan's caverns, Ketheric sought out some much deserved rest when met with the maniacal screeching from the disoriented environmentalist telling him to run and hide. A tilt of his head as his attention shifts to the direction the erratic man came rushing as he squints to see through the fog of night. Mayhaps if he was still blessed by the Mistress of the Night then he might be able to pierce the veil of darkness but long had those days come and gone. All he could do was prepare himself for that which stepped forward into the borders of the hot springs encroaching unknowingly on its real prey the beloved tortoises of native to this leviathan.

Massive stomping gives away the enormity of the creatures size before it finally reveals itself to the light alerting any others nearby of the imminent threat to the hot springs as a whole. An ice giant which rivalled that of an ogre in size clunks forth as the Chosen of Myrkul bares down the foe with an exasperated sigh. Never a dull moment in this supposed place of 'paradise' they found themselves here on Avaleci.]

MANTA BOARD

🐺 THE WOLF AMONG US

[Rumors have spread quickly of a local man who stumbled across a pack of abandoned wolf pups in his travels within the forests at the base of the snowy mountainside. Seeking out those with the abilities to properly train and domesticate the beasts was another matter entirely but the Chosen of Myrkul had corralled ogres, goblins and even Driders to his cause how hard could it be to subjugate the savage creatures? In truth such a companion would be sanctioned at his side, a devoted subject who would serve him with undying loyalty.

After finally locating the man's humble abode on the edge of the forest depths he was pointed in the direction of the pups in question, fighting amongst themselves behind his household over scraps of meat. Snarling and baring their teeth as the former general approached his vision narrows on the closest wolf keeping his head held high. Dominance was key to establishing yourself as their superior as he extends an armored hand.]

You will obey...If you do not then you will break at my word. Do you understand, whelps?!?

[Commanding voice booming over the bustling winds echoing off the nearby trees loud enough for any passerby to hear as the nearest pup grits their teeth with immediate protest.]

🍽️PLATE UP!

[News had reached Ketheric's ears of something rather peculiar since having arrived on Avaleci's shores, a newfound 'delicacy' the locals have quite literally cooked up using their recently deceased critters who thought annoy them so with trying memories long since past. Being one of the many who seemingly brought the nefarious creatures to their just demise in exchange for a sum of coin the man found himself ever curious as to how they taste in turn. Perhaps it was the morbid sense of gratification he received knowing the tiny curs who caused him so much grief in their capture or just his inquisitive nature the Chosen of Myrkul made way for the nearby food cart set up at the base of the mountain with the hot springs on their doorstep.

Approaching the cart in question he would find an elderly fellow with a few missing teeth smiling up at him asking if he would like a "Mischievous Kabob" with the morsel practically shoved in front of his face insistently. Any other unfortunate soul walking by will promptly be flagged down by the odd looking cook in hopes of trying his newest recipe. Albeit reluctantly at first, Ketheric takes up one of the sticks ushered towards him with a solemn sigh. He was not so excited by the prospect of how it tastes but it would be a moral victory over the heinous creatures who sought to provoke him not long ago.]

WILDCARD

[Want to do something else which doesn't suit your fancy on one of the prompts provided? Feel free to reach out to me on Ketheric's CR Plotting Post or reach out to me via

Jareman or PM's!]

Edited 2024-01-06 17:41 (UTC)

...Oh.

[ The horse is a genuine fiend, then. A fiery, ferocious fiend, one they will have to slay if they are to try to make it to the other side of the field and investigate the altar. Rem's eyes widen, but then she nods solemnly. If they have to fight it, so be it. ]

It, ah, can be defeated though, can't it? [ LIKE IT'S NOT INVULNERABLE RIGHT ] We have to get to that altar.

If they bare any resemblance to the demon horses from the hells of Toril...No flame can harm it but can be banished from the realm like any other fiend back to the gates of Avernus from whence it came.

[As much as Ketheric can surmise this fiery horse shared similar qualities to that of the Nightmare of legend from the lands of Faerun. Though it would most definitely serve as a deadly adversary if they make any wrong move especially given his affinity of magics dealt in taking life rather than bestowing in most cases. With that being said the former general of many wars rallied at Rem's side as he bore down the demonic stallion lit ablaze before them as he gives her shoulder a gently clasp in reassurance as he takes up the newly acquired war hammer from the Corsair's best blacksmith's. Using a hefty sum of his earnings he was assured this was no ordinary hammer untapped magical capabilities to the one who might be able to ascertain them, magical prowess or no it was a mighty weapon worthy of his newfound conquest over this leviathan as they traversed the depths of this trying place.

The chosen of Myrkul's eyes glow that ominous shade of eerie green as he extends out an armored hand towards his counterpart as a similar colored glow envelops Rem's form having cast False Life on her then himself in turn. The necrotic shield would bare the brunt of some damage if the stead should get the upper hand on either of them but it would by no means save them from a deathly blow.]

Do not invoke fear, Rem. We shall best this creature and unlock the unforetold mysteries of this fabled alter. Attack from the rear in hopes of surprising our foe whilst I distract it. Understand?

[Stepping out now from their hiding spot to reveal himself the beast skitters around a bit longer before honing in on the elderly half-elf letting out a loud whinny.]

[ Okay... to say that Rem is impressed is an understatement. The magic might be foreign to her, but the way in which the spell envelops her fully has her mesmerized with wonder. Rem inspects her hands and arms as the glow clings to her.

When he directs her attention to the horse, though, her back goes straight, as if standing at attention. ] Yes, sir!

[ And she watches him begin the battle.

Rem waits for a few moments behind the rock before darting to the edge of the chamber, careful to remain in the cavern's shadows and away from the sulfuric vents. Slowly but surely, she makes her way to position herself behind the horse-demon-creature, far enough to ensure that its attention remains wholly on Ketheric, but not so distant that she knows her own attacks won't reach.

Quietly, she calls her daggers into her hands, waiting, for now, for the precise moment to strike. By default, stealth attacks only have one chance; she intends not to waste it. ]

[When Rem sashays along the exterior walls of the rocky chamber keeping to the dark crevasses, Ketheric makes sure to keep the flaming horses' attention fixated on him in the meantime. Fighting the beast straight forward would be rather trying but he was not adverse to getting his hands a bit dirty wherever necessary. History only remembers the victors after all and would be damned if he ended up dying in a place such as this after having just reclaimed this newfound life. Using the brief moment allotted to spare the chosen of Myrkul stands his ground as he begins to cast Blindness on their foe whilst it rushes towards him at full tilt.

In the middle of its impending charge the effect seemingly takes hold, smashing head first into a large stalagmite, creature letting out an agonizing whinny in terror. Becoming dazed the beast tries to collect its bearings but his dark magics hold true as it shudders in dismay as the effects of the blindness hold.]

Strike true without delay, Rem!

[Giving the signal for his counterpart to make her advance for now was the opportune time to attack as Ketheric did not know how much longer the effects of his spell would last.]

WINTER LODGE

HOT SPRINGS

VOLCANO EXPLORATION

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flaming horse

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The Wolf Among Us

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save the turtles

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🌋

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plate up!

I'm so sorry for him in advance Joshua. lmao

this will go so well lmaoooo

fire crystals

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🐎

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Floor is Lava/Wildcard

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