The Firestarters have spoken

 

---

Story:
You make your way out of the Temple of Tides, retracing your path through the crystal-lit corridors and over the still-flowing glyphs of the Flow Path. The temple seems quieter now, as if satisfied with your success. The entrance welcomes you with warm sunlight filtering through swaying vines.

The journey back to the Sacred Grove takes the better part of a day. You travel through forest trails and winding hills, your steps light with purpose. As dusk approaches, the familiar canopy of the Grove comes into view.

The moment your foot touches the stone circle at its center, the altar pulses. The five elemental crystals glow brighter than before, and the Guardian of Balance appears once more, watching you with a knowing expression.

"You have done well," they say. "The Water answers your call. Are you ready to walk another path?"

---

Updated Stats:

• HP: 25 / 25
• EP: 15 / 15
• Elemental Strengths:
  • Air: 1
  • Water: 12
  • Fire: 1
  • Earth: 1
  • Spirit: 7
• Inventory:
  • Basic Adventurer Kit
  • Rations (3 packs)
  • Magical Revive Stones (3)
  • Orb of Purity
  • Adept’s Charm
  • Shimmering Amulet
  • Watershaped Ring
  • Small pouch of coins (10 copper)
  • Fully Deciphered Scroll (Water Barrier)
• Spell Book:
  • Aqua Surge (Level 9)
  • Water Barrier (Level 2)
  • Soul Veil (Level 1)

---

Outcome of the Choice:
You returned to the Sacred Grove. The altar has reawakened in response to your mastery of Water and Spirit. A new elemental path may now be chosen.

---

Next Choices:

1. Choose the Air Crystal – pursue speed, perception, and movement.
2. Choose the Fire Crystal – wield destruction and fierce will.
3. Choose the Earth Crystal – gain endurance, strength, and resilience.
4. Choose the Spirit Crystal – deepen your link to mind and soul.
5. Speak to the Guardian of Balance before choosing.

THANK YOU HEAVY I APPRECIATE THIS FIRE APPRECIATION 😤

 

 

Let's just get on with it.

Illegally plays games whilst on hold to speak to another team

 

---

Story:
You step forward confidently, placing your hand upon the Fire Crystal. It blazes to life beneath your touch, a surge of heat rushing up your arm and into your core. Unlike the soothing flow of water or the quiet strength of spirit, the fire is alive—wild, demanding, and exhilarating.

Flames spiral up your arm and vanish into your chest. You feel it burn within, not to harm, but to empower.

"Fire does not ask for permission," the Guardian says. "It is will made manifest. Use it wisely."

The crystal dims, its gift now part of you. You sense a new spark in your spellbook… and a familiar thrill in your blood.

---

Updated Stats:

• HP: 25 / 25
• EP: 15 / 15
• Elemental Strengths:
  • Air: 1
  • Water: 12
  • Fire: 2
  • Earth: 1
  • Spirit: 7
• Inventory:
  • Basic Adventurer Kit
  • Rations (3 packs)
  • Magical Revive Stones (3)
  • Orb of Purity
  • Adept’s Charm
  • Shimmering Amulet
  • Watershaped Ring
  • Small pouch of coins (10 copper)
  • Fully Deciphered Scroll (Water Barrier)
• Spell Book:
  • Aqua Surge (Level 9)
  • Water Barrier (Level 2)
  • Soul Veil (Level 1)
  • Emberlash (Level 2) – Launches a chain of small flames at one or more enemies, applying burning damage over time

---

Outcome of the Choice:
You embraced the Fire Crystal and awakened your inner flame. You’ve learned a new spell—Emberlash—and your Fire strength has increased to Level 2.

---

Next Choices:

1. Test Emberlash by focusing it at a nearby tree stump.
2. Ask the Guardian for guidance on fire mastery.
3. Seek out a fire-based trial or location.
4. Rest at the Grove before moving forward.
5. Inspect your new spell’s effect and cost.

Always read or ask for the instructions.

58 minutes ago, Turin Turambar said:

Always read or ask for the instructions.

Based. We don't need something that we didn't want set on fire exploding. Or worse.

We ask for directions

 

---

Story:
You turn to the Guardian of Balance, the fire still crackling softly in your chest. "What guidance can you offer on mastering fire?" you ask.

The Guardian's expression remains calm, but their eyes burn like coals. "Fire is the element of passion, courage, and raw will. It demands focus to shape, and restraint to control. Those who wield it recklessly are consumed by it. Those who master it… become unstoppable."

They extend a hand, and a small ember floats above their palm.

"Emberlash is only the beginning. Through trials of flame, you will earn stronger spells and greater resilience. But remember: fire burns brightest in those who know when not to use it."

The ember vanishes. The air feels warmer around you, and you sense new understanding settling into your flame-bound spirit.

---

Updated Stats:

• HP: 25 / 25
• EP: 15 / 15
• Elemental Strengths:
  • Air: 1
  • Water: 12
  • Fire: 2
  • Earth: 1
  • Spirit: 7
• Inventory:
  • Basic Adventurer Kit
  • Rations (3 packs)
  • Magical Revive Stones (3)
  • Orb of Purity
  • Adept’s Charm
  • Shimmering Amulet
  • Watershaped Ring
  • Small pouch of coins (10 copper)
  • Fully Deciphered Scroll (Water Barrier)
• Spell Book:
  • Aqua Surge (Level 9)
  • Water Barrier (Level 2)
  • Soul Veil (Level 1)
  • Emberlash (Level 2) – Launches a chain of small flames at one or more enemies, applying burning damage over time

---

Outcome of the Choice:
You received guidance from the Guardian on the philosophy and dangers of fire. You now better understand its dual nature and the discipline needed to master it.

---

Next Choices:

1. Test Emberlash on a target to feel its power.
2. Ask the Guardian where to find the Fire Trial.
3. Begin searching for a fire-aligned location nearby.
4. Meditate to better attune yourself to fire’s nature.
5. Rest briefly in the Sacred Grove.

Guessing we're looking at 2 or 4? I'm going to vote meditate just to power up a bit but don't really feel that it's terribly important.

 

Edited to add:

 

Ah. Appropriately, it's a flaming sword.

Edited April 1Apr 1 by Aarenis

Yes. More power

Muahahahahahahahahahah!!!!

 

Ahem, yes let's meditate. 😄

40 minutes ago, Turin Turambar said:

Yes. More power

 

Spoiler

 

1 minute ago, Aarenis said:

  Hide contents

 

Thank.you. I was too lazy to go get the gif. lololololol 

I need a nap. 

 

But meditating will do

 

---

Story:
You sit cross-legged on the mossy stone floor of the Grove, letting the warmth of the newly awakened fire settle within. Closing your eyes, you reach inward—not to summon flames, but to listen to them.

Unlike the fluid voice of Water or the quiet pulse of Spirit, Fire thrums like a drumbeat: steady, alive, hungry. But beneath that hunger lies something deeper—resolve. Fire is not chaos… it is choice. The spark of will igniting action.

As you meditate, the ember within you grows more refined, no longer wild but responsive. A subtle warmth spreads through your limbs, and your hands pulse with controlled heat.

---

Updated Stats:

• HP: 25 / 25
• EP: 15 / 15
• Elemental Strengths:
  • Air: 1
  • Water: 12
  • Fire: 3
  • Earth: 1
  • Spirit: 7
• Inventory:
  • Basic Adventurer Kit
  • Rations (3 packs)
  • Magical Revive Stones (3)
  • Orb of Purity
  • Adept’s Charm
  • Shimmering Amulet
  • Watershaped Ring
  • Small pouch of coins (10 copper)
  • Fully Deciphered Scroll (Water Barrier)
• Spell Book:
  • Aqua Surge (Level 9)
  • Water Barrier (Level 2)
  • Soul Veil (Level 1)
  • Emberlash (Level 2) – Launches a chain of small flames at one or more enemies, applying burning damage over time

---

Outcome of the Choice:
You meditated deeply on the nature of fire. Your control has grown stronger, and your Fire strength increased to Level 3, bringing you closer to mastering its next form.

---

Next Choices:

1. Test Emberlash on a practice target in the Grove.
2. Seek the Fire Trial to deepen your mastery.
3. Ask the Guardian if your fire affinity has changed the altar.
4. Rest once more to restore your energy before leaving.
5. Begin your journey toward the cliffs to find the Seeker of the Fivefold Current.

5 hours ago, Aarenis said:

  Hide contents

 

  Reveal hidden contents

Oh, not the fire you ordered? Happy April Fools' 😛 

 

I 500% support this plan. Let's burn it down.

now that's my kinda Fire! Bow wow wow lol

Do we need to get our walking boots on again?

 

---

Story:
You rise from your meditation, flames still quietly whispering within your spirit. Turning to the Guardian, you speak with new clarity. "Where can I find the Fire Trial?"

The Guardian’s eyes gleam, the flicker of flame reflected in their gaze. "The Trial of Fire lies beneath the Ashen Spire, where lava veins meet the sky. It is a volcanic outcrop west of the grove, past the emberlit forest and scorched plains."

They draw a symbol in the air—four jagged lines forming a spiral. It burns briefly, searing the direction into your mind.

"Only those who can balance destruction with purpose will survive the Ashen Spire. You must face not only flame—but what it consumes."

A new path opens in your journal, your map now glowing with the sigil of fire.

---

Updated Stats:

• HP: 25 / 25
• EP: 15 / 15
• Elemental Strengths:
  • Air: 1
  • Water: 12
  • Fire: 3
  • Earth: 1
  • Spirit: 7
• Inventory:
  • Basic Adventurer Kit
  • Rations (3 packs)
  • Magical Revive Stones (3)
  • Orb of Purity
  • Adept’s Charm
  • Shimmering Amulet
  • Watershaped Ring
  • Small pouch of coins (10 copper)
  • Fully Deciphered Scroll (Water Barrier)
• Spell Book:
  • Aqua Surge (Level 9)
  • Water Barrier (Level 2)
  • Soul Veil (Level 1)
  • Emberlash (Level 2) – Launches a chain of small flames at one or more enemies, applying burning damage over time

---

Outcome of the Choice:
You learned the location of the Trial of Fire: the Ashen Spire, a volcanic mountain west of the Sacred Grove. A new fire-bound path now awaits you.

---

Next Choices:

1. Begin your journey west toward the Ashen Spire.
2. Prepare by testing Emberlash before leaving the Grove.
3. Check your supplies and restock if needed.
4. Speak once more with the Guardian about fire and balance.
5. Delay your journey and explore a different elemental path first.

I guess we are setting  off then.

🎶 These boots were made for walking... 🎶🎵

Of we go then

 

---

Story:
With your purpose clear, you gather your supplies and leave the Sacred Grove, setting your course westward toward the Ashen Spire. The path quickly shifts from lush forest to dry, cracked soil. The air grows warmer, and the scent of smoke lingers in the breeze.

By midday, you enter the Emberlit Forest, where trees are charred black but still alive—leaves glowing orange as if lit from within. Strange fireflies flicker above the ground, and the wind carries the low rumble of distant magma flows.

As dusk approaches, the towering silhouette of the Ashen Spire appears on the horizon, smoke coiling from its summit like a banner of warning. Lava flows flicker at its base, and the very air hums with elemental energy.

You make camp just before nightfall, setting a small fire as glowing cinders drift across the sky.

---

Updated Stats:

• HP: 25 / 25
• EP: 15 / 15
• Elemental Strengths:
  • Air: 1
  • Water: 12
  • Fire: 3
  • Earth: 1
  • Spirit: 7
• Inventory:
  • Basic Adventurer Kit
  • Rations (3 packs)
  • Magical Revive Stones (3)
  • Orb of Purity
  • Adept’s Charm
  • Shimmering Amulet
  • Watershaped Ring
  • Small pouch of coins (10 copper)
  • Fully Deciphered Scroll (Water Barrier)
• Spell Book:
  • Aqua Surge (Level 9)
  • Water Barrier (Level 2)
  • Soul Veil (Level 1)
  • Emberlash (Level 2)

---

Outcome of the Choice:
You began your journey west and have now arrived at the base of the Ashen Spire, making camp in the Emberlit Forest. The Fire Trial lies ahead.

---

Next Choices:

1. Rest until morning to enter the Spire fully restored.
2. Explore the Emberlit Forest for fire-touched flora or hidden items.
3. Approach the Spire now, under the cover of night.
4. Use Emberlash on a tree to practice control before the trial.
5. Reflect quietly by the fire to grow your connection to flame.

Loot me! 

I just wanna chill by the fire. It's been a long walking day. 

There is something comforting about watching a fire

 

---

Story:
You sit near your campfire, letting it crackle low as embers drift lazily into the smoky air. The night is quiet, but not silent—distant rumbles echo from the Ashen Spire, and the trees in the Emberlit Forest shift unnaturally, as if the flames still whisper through their roots.

You close your eyes and focus inward, not to summon fire, but to listen to it. The flame before you mirrors the one within—eager, fierce, yet held in check. It becomes clear that fire is not about domination—it is about clarity, will, and the ability to ignite change with purpose.

For your patience and understanding, the fire responds.

Your flame deepens.

---

Updated Stats:

• HP: 25 / 25
• EP: 15 / 15
• Elemental Strengths:
  • Air: 1
  • Water: 12
  • Fire: 4
  • Earth: 1
  • Spirit: 7
• Inventory:
  • Basic Adventurer Kit
  • Rations (3 packs)
  • Magical Revive Stones (3)
  • Orb of Purity
  • Adept’s Charm
  • Shimmering Amulet
  • Watershaped Ring
  • Small pouch of coins (10 copper)
  • Fully Deciphered Scroll (Water Barrier)
• Spell Book:
  • Aqua Surge (Level 9)
  • Water Barrier (Level 2)
  • Soul Veil (Level 1)
  • Emberlash (Level 2)

---

Outcome of the Choice:
You reflected by the fire and further deepened your connection to the flame. Your Fire strength increased to Level 4, enhancing your magical control and preparing you for the trial ahead.

---

Next Choices:

1. Rest until morning to prepare for the Fire Trial.
2. Explore the Emberlit Forest for magical herbs or artifacts.
3. Approach the Spire now, embracing the danger of night.
4. Practice Emberlash one last time before the trial.
5. Inspect the firelight around your camp for signs of hidden movement.

Inspect the waht????

45 minutes ago, Ithillian Turambar said:

embracing the danger of night.

Nothing to worry about here

Joining the play / game (if that's okay)...

 

And cautiously, I might add 🤣🤣 

 

So my vote is for inspection. 

The night is dark and full of terrors

 

---

Story:
You narrow your eyes, turning your attention from the dancing flames of your campfire to the shadows beyond it. Something doesn’t feel right. The flickering firelight reveals faint glimmers between the twisted trees—brief reflections in unseen eyes.

Then you hear it. A low hiss. Followed by a crackle not from your fire—but from something else creeping closer.

From the underbrush emerges a small pack of Ash Serpents—creatures native to volcanic lands, made of charred scales and glowing magma veins. Their bodies slither with fire, and they hiss with molten breath. One rears up, teeth gleaming with heat.

You rise to your feet, the fire in your chest meeting theirs with a steady pulse.

A battle begins.

---

Battle Encounter – Ash Serpents (3)

• These fire-aligned serpents are resistant to basic fire magic but vulnerable to water and spirit spells.
• One prepares to strike while the other two coil defensively.

---

Updated Stats (Pre-Battle):

• HP: 25 / 25
• EP: 15 / 15
• Elemental Strengths:
  • Air: 1
  • Water: 12
  • Fire: 4
  • Earth: 1
  • Spirit: 7
• Inventory:
  • Basic Adventurer Kit
  • Rations (3 packs)
  • Magical Revive Stones (3)
  • Orb of Purity
  • Adept’s Charm
  • Shimmering Amulet
  • Watershaped Ring
  • Small pouch of coins (10 copper)
  • Fully Deciphered Scroll (Water Barrier)
• Spell Book:
  • Aqua Surge (Level 9) – Wide-area healing; can also douse or disrupt fire-aligned enemies
  • Water Barrier (Level 2) – Blocks physical and magical attacks for two turns
  • Soul Veil (Level 1) – Protects an ally from emotional and magical harm
  • Emberlash (Level 2) – Deals fire damage over time (ineffective against Ash Serpents)

---

Next Battle Choices:

1. Cast Aqua Surge to strike all three Ash Serpents with elemental water.
2. Use Water Barrier and take a defensive stance.
3. Target one serpent with your Orb of Purity to disrupt its energy.
4. Try to scatter them using your surroundings—rocks, fire, or terrain.
5. Use a ration quickly to prepare for a longer fight.

Turn the hose on them.