WS5--Needful Things for Adventuring Squirrels
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Below you will find a lot of odds and ends to walk you down Memory Lane if you've played before or fill you in if you're new. Just read the things that interest you. Ask any questions you want at the end, or just comment away!
The Recurring NPC Characters
At the Wayward Squirrel Winton--jovial owner and innkeeper of the Wayward Squirrel Ertrude--his wife and partner, also a minor hedgewitch. Larianne--their adopted daughter, once a bit dim, now very bright. Thorson--resident alchemist; loves lady alchemists OneToo--his talking cyberplate droid cat (AKA Wellington 12 of 14) Morrow--reformed goblin shyster and devoted housegoblin
Wayward Squirrel Friends Vibrissa--Feline Faerie Queen (a winged cat) Grumpkins--her consort and confirmed pessimist Melian--Elven Enchantress, a childhood friend of Winton
At Squirrel McGee's Offtime Saloon--Open 365-24/7 Squirrely McGee--A human size squirrel; loves to dance with True, and anyone else who's game. But True is special! Ingrid--Squirrely's invaluable, and sarcastic, right hand. She is VETAN, not anything else, and don't you forget it. Hansel--Ingrid's beloved rabbit--not a big talker Geranium--Chipmunk waitress, very loving and devoted to her family Branch--her husband and handyman for Squirrely; rescued in WS2 Chester--their son, a baby adventurer, at least in his own mind. Willow--Chester's brand new baby sister; most adorable chipmunk ever!
Friends of Squirrely's Mithrandir--the here-again, gone-again travelling Nexus Wizard Lucien Reynard--Fox Captain of the Floating Frenchmen Gaston--his faerie first mate Nutsy--Squirrely's cousin; runs Nutsy's Nefarious Nights detective agency. Francine--Nutsy's Secretary; rejected sleigh reindeer with great legs.
The Crystanians Tanaka Katsuhiro--man of mystery and charm in lethal combination. He's well---he sure is! Hayao Katsuhiro--his uncle, a master inventor, creator of OneToo and TwoFer. TwoFer--their droid cat--strongest of the battlecats Izzy MacGuiness--fearless captain of the Victorious Vixen and smuggler par excellence. Off again-on again sweetheart of Lucien Pugnose Q. Abernathy (Pugsy)--Izzy's BFF and mechanic of any century. Gadjet--her droid dog--fastest pup in or out of the Nexus Bearman Jack--Pirate radio captain of the Caroline; another of the Nexus Privateers Nancy (Incomparable Nancy)--Jack's wife and headline entertainer at the Gearwork Goose Junu--Cousin to Hayao and Tanaka, refugee from Sinhae, where he is possibly the only surviving rightful ruler. Magic with a flute. Chiasa--Junu's sister, rescued in WS4 after years in a castle fortress. Totally devoid of ANY magic and immune to its effects.
(There are a number of new characters for WS5 and veterans will hear news of other characters who won't recur this round. Please don't play for or with these folks in a substantive manner without asking me first, as it may affect the later plot. Exchanging pleasantries, etc. is completely fine.)
Very Condensed Wayward Squirrel 1
So they came, on that warm summer night, through the bowers of morning glories that bloomed even at night. From all the layers of Backers they arrived, some alone, many more already in groups. They were as motley as they were merry, and companions roamed freely among them. They introduced themselves one by one, and showed off the finery of each class. Winton, Ertude, and Larianne welcomed them all to the Wayward Squirrel, and set them up with food, drink, and comfortable suites. Almost as soon as they arrived, they set to work, solving Winton's fuzzball dilemma and helping Larianne with a particularly terrifying palm tree, just in time to discover that the cellar just might be infected with grues.
The Skeletal Cellars
Not to be daunted, down they went, where they found not grues, but goblins everywhere! Some in merchant stalls with exorbitant prices, and others gathered for a world-class event of the WWG (Wild Wrestling Goblique), where the warrior from each team was forced into the ring with Erdoolo, the ginormous rift monster. After some really bloody battles, and even more merriment, the parties emerged victorious, and were marched off to meet the Goblin King. Since his most precious ring had just been stolen by trolls, and only a ghost party trapped behind the solid rock wall nearby knew where it was, the King was not in a very good mood. It was time to blast, lightning bolt, lockpick or otherwise get through the wall to the ghosts, where they not only heard their tragic stories from the ghost party members, but also learned of the Feline Faerie Queen, and how the trolls held her captive. Each party made their own decision whether or not to help the ghosts return home, and were whisked back to the inn, where they figured out the combination to Thorson's abandoned alchemical lab, stocked up on supplies, and rushed into the dawn-vacant Faerie Markets to meet a very strange party of Ambassadors and be shown a secret tunnel to the
Incarcerated Cats
Dashing down the secret hallway, they gained a strange guide in a vaporing cat, who got them across the Goblin King's Throne Room and into Troll Territory. Here, they were confronted by an appalling sight: cases of cats being fattened by the trolls, and a small alcove containing the Feline Faerie Queen chained to a dais and guarded by her faithful, if morose, consort. He explained that more than just cats and his beloved queen were at stake, since the trolls also held an royal elven baby. For the first time, they learned the mastermind behind all this mayhem was an evil necromancer! Well, this rescue required clever bard thinking, but the parties rose to the challenge, defeated the trolls, reunited Grumpkins with his beloved, and saved the elf baby and his lovely governess, obtaining the cursed ring in the process. They then followed the governess to:
The Elven Halls
Here, they were welcomed by the Elven Court, and shown the Janus Glass by the royal cat couple. The parties saw the consequences of their actions with the ring and the effect of those actions on the ghost party behind the wall. They had little time to ponder those actions, though, as they found their Ranger must be stylish enough to be selected for the elite Elven Archer Corps. The rangers were given the use of the Hall of Backdrops to pick a suitable setting for their costume designs, and they performed with much skill. But the elves were a bit tricksy, and the Rangers had to vanish themselves first, to prove their worthiness, and then all the party had to decode ancient tapestries so the Ranger could impersonate the Goblin Queen of Legend, and deal with the nasty Goblin King once and for all. With that triumph assured, the parties were surprised to find out there was a third task (isn't it always three?) and were admitted to the lake to see if they could succeed in creating...
Lost Love Found
Solving a series of tough riddles to clear the fog around the lake for passage, they found a lovely kimono and an exquisite head fan and heard a tragic tale from a devoted samurai who lost his love when she was lured into the waters by an evil enchantress. However, they were aided by the Enchantress of the Lake, who explained that the maid was held in a bubble by the water nymphs that could only be called forth in the correct order of the colors of their realms and natures. This was a hugs problem for the Magic-Users, but not one they couldn't solve, and they did! The maid was called forth and the lovers reunited, destroying the evil cousin and restoring the Enchantress to her rightful position. But, as Spring returned to the land, the Necromancer erupted in rage and cast the parties into...
The Clockwork Corridor
Oddly enough, this place is right under the Wayward Squirrel's Cellar, but the parties couldn't reach the inn and safety, so they narrowly escaped, helping one of the Market Goblins on the way and earning his gratitude. With some technical knowledge, they solved devious problems, and thought they were safe, when most of the parties vanished and the Alchemist was rescued by Thorson and whisked into his secret lab, where they worked together to solve one of the most devious chess problems ever created. With the potions created by the Alchemist and Thorson, brilliant chess strategies, and even a reward from a good deed, Nefario the Necromancer was banished forever, Thorson was free to return to the Inn, and the parties found themselves...
Home? at the Wayward Squirrel
While the parties feasted and picked their prizes from the lavish Faerie Gallery, Winton announced his plans to remodel the inn, adding on a special wing for the new order: Protectors of the Squirrel. Gnome crews are making great progress, and the wing is expanding daily, a tribute to the expectant spirits of all the Wayward Squirrel's staff. And so it sits in glory on the wall next to the "Under Construction" sign for the new wing, a large plaque with, as Larianne would put it, "dear dear names," enscribed in gold and surmounted by a squirrel rampant. Some names have faded a bit, to show that the owners will not be seen for some time, or perhaps ever, but most of the names shine magically in the twinkling lights above, shimmering and waiting for the new adventures to begin.]
WS2, WS3, and WS4 are still on the forums as locked topic if you're really into the history.
Vital Questions
What if I'm scared to battle, or write, or make HAs, or solve puzzles, or...?
No worries. Someone on your team will be, and this is a group adventure! This time everything is optional, so relax!
My team members are different!
People come; people go. Life happens The good news is that you'll make new friends!
Are there stats? Character sheets?
Nope. You create your own character and play it. This is a "living" RP adventure, with events, challenges, HA designing, warrior battling, puzzles and maybe some other surprises. It "breathes" and responds to you and your actions.
Can we die?
NOPE.
Can we get injured?
Yep, if you do something stupid. So, don't do anything stupid. You're a really bright lot, believe me. I can't stump you. 😄
You mean we get prizes?
Oh, yes, lots of them, many coming in already, and specially designed exclusive items. You will be spoiled.
What if I'm confused? What's best to do?
We are all confused from time to time with this, me included. I've tried to smooth the bumps even more this time, but you watch--we'll hit something. 😀 Just dive in and play as you go, that's the best strategy.
What was the worst thing that happened last year?
The stress of getting things done when Subeta was squirrelier than we were, and the conflict it caused among some teams. I've really tried to pull out and go around a lot of it this year. Cross your fingers. Oh, heck, cross everything!
Who won each year?
I like to think everyone did. I know I did!
I love you for doing this!
I love you, too. 😀 Like Snape: Still and always!
(If you have anything to add or comment upon, go ahead, please. Let's shake the dust off and have a rollicking good time! Tanaka wants you to!)
That's cause I know the scareist thing around here is Girlie!
thanks for the reminders of who's who - I got in a complete muddle last time! bookmarks the thread :D
My CW shop ~ forumset by [/font]
You're very welcome!
Sent a gift for the prize shop will send more when I feel better, and hopefully before I fly out... if that works out.
RIP Mom, I love & miss you more than you know. Tell Dede hi.
Ocean Conservation Namibia on YouTube... they do good work! https://www.ocnamibia.org
Sent something for the prize shop also.. hope it was fine. Can you be more specific of the prizes you look for? thanks for doing this again! This is the excitement of Subeta for me now and I would be so lost without it!
PS My character has always been named Willow since I started...I could add a last name if that will be a problem?
Tanaka's entry needs to be updated. Isn't he seeing Larianne now~? giggles Cutest couple /ever/. And I can't wait to see Chester again! He's adorbs.
Out of curiosity, I know we'll see Djoni again -- we already have -- but what about Jer and the princess? They gonna play a role/make cameos?! OR WHAT ABOUT TANAKA'S BROMANCE WITH THAT SEELIE PRINCE?! cackles
The way some people spell makes me wonder about their pronunciation. My CW shop, and my ping group
you know, you might want to actually considering marketing this game. this is the FIFTH YEAR!!! OMG!!! (of course, WE HAVE NOT gotten older, but the GAME Has!) :D :D :D :D
As per 's comment, class lines have gotten blurred a bit, but they remain firmly in place. Most of you love the whole class thing, so please keep using them! BUT, that being said, if for some reason, your team's member can't fulfill a task, anyone else on the team may take it over. Hopefully, this now combines the best of best worlds!
We're back in Crystania now, so the classes are dual:
A) Warriors/Privateers--for those who want to open locked doors by kicking them in and the like. Lots of physical strength here, and not easily frightened. They may have a few spells handy, but nothing heavy duty. Besides, nothing tops a big. shiny sword. Might is right, tyvm. Just don't call them pirates! Okay, they are if you need that airship grabbed, but they can do firearms, rapiers, cannons, and just throw a knockout punch if anyone gets unreasonable. Got your back!
B) Magic Users/Technomancers--Got a spell for that? These folks do, and they come in all sorts of specialties. They are handy at making things a lot easier and conjuring up needful items. Fire, Ice, or Alohomora? Why, yes, indeed! But, when your fireball fizzles, surely you can enchant a machine to do it for you. Or divert the energy in those coils into lightning, greased or not. Gimme that sonic whip!
C) Rangers/Aeronaut--Even the trees love this character! Critters will lick their wounds clean and plants will bind them with sap. They're graceful and light footed as well, and know a bunch about nature. They're also hot with arrows. Airship is no good if someone can't fly it through anything, get you where you need to go with expert navigation, and doesn't need a compass if there are stars. No, not the ones from the punch your Privateer landed, real ones. Oh, and they're great with steamcars and trains, too. First star to the right.....
D)Bard/Troubador--How charming are these characters? Very, and handy at getting folks to cooperate. They can usually sing or play, and they're great storytellers. Okay, so they can also sneak around in shadows and pick locks, but who's perfect? Lots of social grace, the etiquette needed to navigate aristocratic gatherings, waltz in ballrooms,sing torch songs in a bistro, and generally charm the pants off of anyone--perhaps, literally---you never know...
E) Alchemist/Professor--Need healing? Got a heavy puzzle to solve or a formula to make? Lost in a maze without a map? Here are your folks. No challenge too great. They truly are legends in their own minds, and sometimes everyone else's. Excellent in Chemistry, Vehicle Construction, History and Research. Not too fond of battle, but can blow out a door in that titanium wall. Ka--boom!
F)Vagabond/Polymath-- Yep, just like the scientific definition. Knows something about everything, but isn't an expert in anything.Sort of a Jack/Jill of all trades. Within the realm of the Squirrel, not much technical expertise comes with this, but it does have quite a MacGyver factor. If you don't know who MacGyver is--well--you're waaaayy young. Call your Mom before you leave. She worries.
As to Tanaka and Larianne--that's a rollercoaster. Not as explosive or unpredictable as Jack and Izzy, but still a rollercoaster. It always was, and that's a large part of the attraction. She's always interior about the risks he takes. and he has nightmares, well-founded, about her getting herself in hot water. It's not a calm romance, but, yes, it IS a romance, ad we will see.
Vi and Jer? Oh. yes. they will be seen. The Seelie Prince--hmmmm, definite maybe.
Awitchy. I know. I can't hardly believe it--FIVE years!
And anyone could be named Willow. That little chipmunk would be happy to be your namesake, .
Prizes? Lots of stuff you couldn't find elsewhere or would be too expensive for a lot of you to buy. I strive for three prizes each for every player. Naturally, CWs Cash shop, and all forms of rare items work, and don't be shy if it's older. I have vintage items that people coo over anytime they see them. In fact....(gets a brill idea and shuts up--cackle)
And now my darling, devoted, and otherwise indispensible aide and scorekeeper, , will tell you about our easy rules, I hope. :D Remember, the first and foremost if HAVE FUN!!
There are very few rules for the Wayward Squirrel Event, but there are some:
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No "god-playing." You know, the one where your character is all powerful and no challenge even slows them down, but this doesn't affect many of you. The other aspect of this is what I'll call "I'm the greatest star!" This is the person who hogs the spotlight in every RP, making endless near-death sacrifices for the team, every single time. No matter how many team members, they'll write around until it's all about them. DON'T DO THIS!This sort of thing will make all your teammates call on to dispose of the body, and you know what kind of skill she has with that! Besides, the judges don't like it; you'll lose points, and I'll shoot you down. 😀
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All puzzles and challenges must be submitted through your captain or co-captain. This is a team event, and it only functions that way. However, if there's an emergency, let me know.
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There are no stats, nor will there be. WS seems to work very well without these, and our judges are awesome. Their determinations in all cases are final.
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Most important:
Now, the regulations so the revelry can begin:
- SURPRISE! This year's adventure has only one mode: Wayward Squirrel mode. Yep, yep, you heard me. Just one. You will all begin exactly the same. Each chapter will have one challenge and one puzzle. All puzzles and challenges are optional. You may just poke along, read, and briefly respond if you wish. However, you will get no points and no prizes unless you role-play and take on the puzzles and challenges. The more you do; the higher your score! The points are yours for the taking, or leaving!
It's that simple, folks, and you can't get any less stressful than that! It's the Harold & Maude approach--did I lose you?
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Only a certain number of points may be gained in each chapter, no matter how many, or how few, team members you have. You do not need one member of each class to play, and you may also have two members use the same class.
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You may interact with the NPCs as you wish, and I will respond, but you won't get any information such as hints. All teams will remain on an even playing ground at all times. You may also not play an NPC without my agreement, nor may you permanently alter the setting. 😀 Yes it has happened. Squirrely McGee still has nightmares.
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Your entry into the Prize Gallery will be based on your team's overall score.
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There is no right or wrong way to role-play a challenge as long as you get the job done. For this year, role-play submissions will be posted by your captain on the chapter thread, so everyone will read and see your submissions. The Wayward Squirrels really like this!
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If there are any ties, they will be broken by the amount of role-play participation on the chapter threads.
Notes: The RP forum asks that we post (OOC) for all out-of-character comments on the actual RP threads. We do want to work within Subeta's rules for the event. You cannot die. You will not starve. You can be injured. You may have a companion, or two if they are a "set." You may use the share function on Subeta or screen captures, or whatever works. You may appeal a puzzle to me if you believe you have a right answer I didn't credit. You may not appeal the judges' decision. These are the most unbiased group of knowledgeable folks, and they don't know you. You may ask why your score wasn't perfect, or get a general critique.
Bear in mind that each team has its own character, as do the players within it. There is no one way to be a mage, or an alchemist, or anything else. Go ahead and take a risk with your persona if you wish. It's all good.
Questions are always welcome, as are rants (but please smail those.) You may argue with me; in fact, most of you do. 😉 I'm always willing to listen and help.
Above all, have FUN with this!!
Thank you ! sends hugs
Thank you also !
, , .... we can have two in a class and don't have to have one in a class according to the rules. We are good to go without a Vagabond :)
tumultuous romance is fun. Right up there with slow burn. You should ask me about Malys sometime. The ship name fits the ship SO WELL.
And yay, possible bromance and royalty~! Huzzah!
The way some people spell makes me wonder about their pronunciation. My CW shop, and my ping group
Not sure if you saw this in the chaos of sign ups lol so posting again! Sorry if you did and I missed the reply somehow.
Will we be doing the rp in the ws ping group? Last year the post limit changed and we could no longer edit to make it unlimited text wise.
For my team we are all rarely on at the time when I post, so Im not sure how we would go about doing 5 or more posts in a row to accomidate a longer rp ;u; With the ping forums though you can post one after another and that would make it easier to show continuations and such.
~ Cowboys & Russians ~
I'm totally open to the forum for it, especially if it will make things easier!
That would be amazing, I just wouldnt want to ask to do that if people prefer it be public. I just wish the darn limit wasnt reduced everywhere OTL but Im seriously sure we can make anything work. Even if its posting there first for the deadline and then adding it when we can in the public forum ;D
~ Cowboys & Russians ~