[Grouse House Guide] Cataclysms | August Event
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Posted 2022-08-22 09:41:02
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Mel 🏜️ #201 |
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Posted 2022-08-22 10:03:55 (edited)
The small, soft-feathered form of a barn owl cowers under some nearby brush, trying to take shelter from the disaster. It looks injured and weak, and you wonder how long it's been like this. If it can't fly, you doubt it's been able to hunt. It sees you and tries to hide deeper in the brush. Find food OR leave it in peace Find food: You offer a Weasel Carcass (_ use left) to the owl. The best thing you can do is give it something to eat. Maybe that will give it enough strength to get to safety. You got +2 CS! Found in grasslands A small creature without any fur stares at you with small beady eyes, and you're almost certain you sense malice coming from it. You sniff the air to get its scent, and are shocked to realize it's a squirrel. Where was the gray fur and the bushy tail? Was it sick? Swat: You swat at it, not sure if you're driven by curiosity or your predator instincts. The squirrel chitters angrily at you as it darts away and disappears from sight. -------  Tailypo, Independent A familiar long snout with pointy ears and rough, coarse fur shoves into your face rather abruptly. The creature it belongs to makes you think it might be some kind of wolf. It has a long tail, and its body is thin and wiry with oddly long toes. It sniffs you up and down, as if gaining information. You don't have to even attempt to smell the creature; its stench crosses your nose every time it passes you. It smells muggy and damp and of something more sinister, but you can't be sure. "You look like me, but you're far smellier. Don't you wash? I guess it can't be helped...I could use a strong set of paws like yours. Smell aside, do you want to help me?" |
 Stefanie 🦌 #8113 |
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Posted 2022-08-22 10:34:27 (edited)
If there is only one option shown, it is the only one there was.  "Some sort of run-down structure enclosing a small space can be seen in the distance. You tread closer, and realize this must have been built by humans. It's overgrown and smells odd, but it doesn't seem to be occupied. Perhaps it's some sort of shelter?" Inspect "After inspecting it for a while you decide that while it's alien, it doesn't seem to pose a threat. There's no fresh scent of humans here, everything is covered in dirt, and the land has started overtaking the structure. You'll never understand humans and their odd behavior. You stumble upon something on your way out." +1 Gull Carcass ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------  "The pile of branches, leaves, feathers, and grass you stumble upon still has the shape of a nest but it's completely destroyed. Its size indicates that it must have been created by a very large bird but you don't see nor sense any of them around at the moment." Check it out "While the nest is in pieces, the separate elements seem to be in good shape. There is a chance you can use some of them." +1 Toucan Feather, +1 Essence-Covered Feather, +1 Skua Feather ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------  "Shimmering blue scales draw your gaze to this serpentine creature. Its nostrils flare and it assesses you curiously." You discovered a new cryptid - Champ! ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Champ - Kinfolk  Shimmering blue scales draw your gaze to this serpentine creature. Its nostrils flare and it assesses you curiously. Despite being landbound, Champ appears quite comfortable as it spreads its length on the bank and soaks up the sun. The blue of its scales seem to shift and change with the river as it flows, and you're sure that once this creature disappears beneath the water, it's untrackable. "Oh! You're small, aren't you? But I bet you're fast, and time is of the essence. I'm slow on land. Care to help me out?" ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------  "You could smell this half rotten carcass long before you came upon it. It's a goat that has been dead for a while and has started to sour. It's not something you would want to eat. Yuck!" Investigate "You hold your breath and poke around the carcass, looking for anything useful. After a moment you see something and...score! The goat may be smelly, but at least it's useful!" +1 CS ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------  "A strange, faint herbal scent catches your attention and leads you to an unusual object hanging on a nearby branch. You think it resembles a human, but it could also be an ape... or maybe it was anything with four limbs. A dense and unsettling aura surrounds this place, making it both fascinating and scary at the same time." Investigate "The straw doll seems to contain something inside. You can't see it very well but you're sure that you recognize parts of herbs that are both known and unknown to you. The more you investigate, the more sleepy you feel, but it is not a nice and relaxing sensation. It's comparable to the exhaustion from running for two days straight. For a brief moment, you see nothing but pitch darkness surrounding you. When you are able to focus again, you feel tired once again and pain comes with it. This place is surely cursed. You lost -2% energy! You lost -3 HP!" ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------  "Like a cross between a snake and a fish, the glittering, scaled being before you observes you with a curious gaze. It appears friendly." You discovered a new cryptid - Bessie! ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Bessie - Kinfolk  Like a cross between a snake and a fish, the glittering, scaled being before you observes you with a curious gaze. It appears friendly. It sits loosely curled around itself on the ground, shifting back and forth occasionally. It glistens, and smells quite fishy. The creature is huge, and you're certain it could make prey out of you if it wanted. But its eyes are kind, and it leans closer to you with nostrils flaring, taking in your scent. "Furry thing, aren't you? I bet your fur is soft. I need help from a landwalker like you. Won't you help me?" --Take quest-- The sea creature has stretched itself out along the riverbank, letting the water run over its scales and through its fins. It's peering closely at the water and sitting still, as if watching for movement. Suddenly it dunks its head down, and comes up with a small, wriggling fish and swallows it easily. It notices you watching and waves a tail fin at you in greeting. "As time goes on, more of those evil beings from The Merged keep appearing. Go fight 3 x the Merged cryptids to show that their kind is not welcome here." ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Desert - Disaster, Thunderstorm  "While it's not wise to approach any bear, this strange one looks cute despite the red glow in its eyes. A weak growl comes out of its throat but it only makes it look even cuter with its fuzzy fur and little size. You can't help but approach it." Play "You hesitate at first but there is no adult Lava Bear in sight. You wag your tail and bark at the cub, trying to show your good intentions, but it continues to look at you with a hostile expression and exposed teeth. After several attempts, you get tired of trying. This is the least friendly cub of any species you've ever come across. You leave in a huff without looking back. Luckily, there is something more interesting sticking out of the sand, cheering you up a bit after the failed attempt at friendship with the bear." +1 CS ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------  "The creature in front of you is definitely one of the weirdest beings you've ever seen. It would be a feline resembling a bobcat if not for the long, sharp thorns covering its body and branching tail swishing slowly from side to side. Flowers also bloom on its body." You discovered a new cryptid - Cactus Cat! ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Cactus Cat - Kinfolk  The creature in front of you is definitely one of the weirdest beings you've ever seen. It would be a feline resembling a bobcat if not for the long, sharp thorns covering its body and branching tail swishing slowly from side to side. Flowers also bloom on its body. You're careful not to go too close to the weird thorns on its body, but the feline's attitude seems friendly. It's circling you in turn, keeping a safe distance from you as well. Despite its odd looks, you don't feel uneasy. It feels as if the creature has already adapted to this place. "Don't be afraid. If I wanted to hurt you, I would have already done so." ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Phew! That was a lot! I'll be taking a break from posting all of these. |
 Alex the Green Lizard #7114 |
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Posted 2022-08-22 11:56:51 (edited)
all of these are from the Riparian Woodland in a drought. ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------  The movement in the muddy water is promising and you hope to catch a tasty fish, but instead a large, snake-like monster emerges in front of you. You discovered a new cryptid - Kipsy! ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------  -take quest- You can spot the monster's long neck from afar. It's expecting you and doesn't bother to hide or mask its presence in any way. This alone tells you that however indifferent it may sound, it has its own plans for these unusual events that probably won't be shared. "I need you to retrieve something. Someone stole my food and I'm fuming with anger. It wasn't too long ago so the thief can't be far. You can't miss it, it's a really large fish. A dead sturgeon to be specific." Hint: try exploring in the Riparian Woodland! ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- The movement in the muddy water is promising and you hope to catch a tasty fish, but instead a large, snake-like monster emerges in front of you. It's a Level 20 Kipsy! Independent [Attack] ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------  The bank of the river is oddly shallow for this time of the year, and you wonder where all of the water has gone. Up ahead you see an odd, misshapen object stretching across the water. The water in front of it is shallow, while the water behind is much deeper. What's going on? [Investigate] -after investigating- You pad closer, and although you can't reach it where it sits, it's clear that this thing isn't natural. It's an odd color that's fading in spots, sharp edges that look lethal. Debris has built up around it, and it looks like it's blocking the flow of the water. You're sure that it wasn't here only a short time ago--you know this land well. Maybe it was caused by one of the disasters? There's not much you can do, and you decide it's best to move on.Something washed up on the shore nearby catches your eye as you leave. Score! You got +1 CS ! |
 Anxiety #303 |
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Posted 2022-08-22 12:01:07 (edited)
 Big, round eyes in a fluffy mottled pelt make this creature almost inviting to approach. It raises its tail and waves the paw at you. You approach and stare long and hard at the tail that has a long-fingered paw as casually as you have four of your own. The tail brushes back and forth over the ground behind it, and stops briefly to pick up a small bug and pop it in its mouth. The tail-paw reaches for you next, and you back up a step. "Hello there, large friend. I need a hand. Well...another one, that is. Care to assist?" ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Augerino - the Merged - Desert  A large, worm-like creature rests in the warm sand. Its body is abnormally twisted but its movements are surprisingly smooth. You pad closer, and you feel observed. While you can't see the giant worm's mouth, you can clearly hear its voice. It resembles a dry, malicious hiss. You feel an urge to take a step back when it gets closer to you. "What a perfect coincidence. I need someone like you. Interested?" ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Cajun Sasquatch - Kinfolk - Swamp  A shaggy, long-armed creature is dangling from a low-hanging vine. It tilts its head at you in a playful way. You stare at the creature and it stares right back. You want to look away, but the staring contest ensuing is too intense to resist. Who will win? Will the creature blink first? You feel something slimy go over your feet and jump back in surprise. A vine...which the creature surely could not have commanded to trip you and break your stare, right? "You lasted longer than most! But my stare is unmatched. Come, I have a task for you." ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Lizard Man - the Merged - Swamp  You've seen scaled beasts in the swamp before, but this one stands upright and moves like a man. It hisses through long, sharp teeth. The creature moves with ease through the wet terrain and seems to be looking for something. It makes such a ruckus that if it happens to be looking for something to eat, you know it will never find anything. It stomps around and smacks its long tail on the muddy ground in frustration before glaring at you. "You there! I need food, among other things. You will help me, or I'll just eat you instead." ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Mogollon Monster - Kinfolk - Desert  You nearly trip over a large rock, before realising it's not a rock at all! It stirs, and two shining blue eyes blink up at you. The monster sits upright, its long, shaggy fur covered in dusty sand. It doesn't seem to mind, and brushes grime away from its eyes. Had it been napping? It heaves itself up to stand and shakes all over quite like you would to dry yourself. Appearing satisfied, it sits back down against a rock formation and looks at you expectantly. "Well isn't this convenient? I need a partner, and here you are! I'll reward you for helping me. What do you say?" ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Mothwolf - the Merged - Desert  A red-eyed, wolf-furred, winged...moth hovers in front of you. Its antennae wave and you feel unsettled as it fixes its gaze upon you. This moth-wolf hybrid is something a pup would have nightmares of. Not only does it have segmented legs that click eerily, the last set of legs are wolf-like and enable the creature to stand upright. It stretches itself as tall as it can go as you approach, stretching its wings to their full width and looking at you with contempt. "You're...lesser than me. No wings as far as I can see. An ugly lifeform. Still...I suppose you could be of use. You'd be foolish to refuse to help me." ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Sisimito - Independent - Rainforest  The mere sight of this ape-like creature covered with moss green fur makes you feel uneasy but its twisted body doesn't seem to cause it any pain. While the creature is rather big and could be potentially dangerous to you, it seems hesitant to approach. Eventually, it comes closer, using its distorted body in a surprisingly smooth way, resembling a spider with backward-facing feet and fast movement. "Hey, don't come too close. Yes, this far is good. I need someone to help me and you look bored. Interested?" Possible quest: Give 10x Large rock. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Southern Chupacabras - the Merged - Rainforest  If death itself could have a child with a rat, the creature standing in front of you would be the result. The skull-like muzzle is frozen in a permanent, unsettling grin as the beast stares at you. While the creature isn't huge, it doesn't seem to be afraid of you and it would be foolish to underestimate it. Its rattlesnake tail makes you wonder if its bite is venomous. It definitely looks like it. When it approaches you, you can hear its loud, disgusting breath sounds. "If you want to stay around, you must follow my rules and do as I say. Otherwise, get out." ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Water Tiger - Independent - Rainforest  A nearby moss-covered log starts to move, and you realise that it never was a log–it's a large cat. Its fur is green and blue, and blends in well with its surroundings. The cat appears intimidating, but it doesn't seem particularly bothered by your presence. You sense no malice, instead feeling as though you hold a mutual respect for each other. It sits regally and watches you coolly, inviting you with a sweep of its tail. "Well look at that, a wolf! Usually I wouldn't even talk to you, but you seem smart and capable. Interested in helping me?" Possible quest: "You look fast, which tells me this next task will prove no challenge to you and your pack. I want you to complete 4 hunts. A test of your strength, and good entertainment for me." |
 Kuura #6181 |
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Posted 2022-08-22 12:21:52 (edited)
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------  Not only does this dark, horned being look like a demon but you're also completely certain that it is one. As if its appearance wasn't enough, it's carrying a used–but clearly still sharp–axe with visible stains of dried blood. You discovered a new cryptid - Goatman! ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------  Not only does this dark, horned being look like a demon but you're also completely certain that it is one. As if its appearance wasn't enough, it's carrying a used–but clearly still sharp–axe with visible stains of dried blood. A self-confident smirk of the black Goatman sends a chill down your spine. You wouldn't be surprised if when you let it out of your sight, it would go terrorize the area. The creature starts approaching you, tightening the grip on its axe and clearly enjoying the fear in your eyes. "You there! You're not going anywhere unless I let you go. Complete some tasks for me first. Or maybe you'd like to be eaten on the spot?" -take quest- You hear the Goatman's steps just before it emerges from the thick bushes. It is probably a cover for a path to its lair and you don't want to check if it is true or not, expecting a bloody mess. The monster's hands are empty this time, which calms you down only a little bit and you still try to keep a distance. Just in case. "I've seen some unwanted intruders around my territory lately. Go and defeat 2 x Blacktailed Buck as soon as you can. I hope that it will warn the rest not to cross the line." ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------  The sight of an older human, clearly dedicated and prepared to fight everything in this area, isn't more surprising than all the oddities happening lately. Whatever your next step will be, it's better to be extra careful now. [Turn Back] or [Chase] -after turning back- You try to turn back as carefully and silently as possible but the human spots you. Despite his age, he moves as swiftly as someone a lot younger. You manage to escape but not without a price. You lost -5 HP! -after chasing- No matter how much stuff the human drags with him, ultimately nothing will help without being as skilled as you. Chasing him could be a great opportunity to keep your senses sharp. You start to chase the man, amused by his genuine fear. He doesn't even try to defend himself with his fancy human toys. If you really wanted to hunt him down, you'd succeed effortlessly, but it's more fun this way. When the man disappears, you find something useful on the ground. Grouse Feather You got +1 Grouse Feather! |
Anxiety #303 |
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Posted 2022-08-22 12:24:07 (edited)
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------  An eagle hops pitifully on the ground in front of you. The large, proud bird calls out, as if looking for its mate. Or perhaps it's just looking for help? One of its wings is bent at an odd angle, and it drags on the ground as it moves. [Try to Help] or [Kill] -after trying to help- You go up to the bird, trying to convince it to allow you to guide it towards some better cover. It shrieks and flaps wildly, scattering feathers and snapping at you with its sharp beak. Any attempts to try and help it further only result in more angry shrieking. Taking the hint, you back away. It tosses something to you in gratitude. You got +1 CS ! ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------  This usually majestic feline walks slowly, with visible struggle. You notice blood stains on its fur and its eyes appear almost foggy with pain. It's clear that the cougar won't survive long in its current condition. [Give healing salve] or [Ignore] -after giving healing salve- Your supplies aren't much but it's better than nothing. You hope that this medicine will help the cougar to at least reach a safe place. The cougar fails at hiding the surprise in its gaze when you offer your help. You don't want anything in return but the cougar insists that you should accept a little gift as it may be useful later. You got +2 CS ! ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------  You see a tall, hulking shape ahead with its feathered limbs stretched wide and obscured by shadows. Your pelt prickles in fear and you watch as the form shakes itself, flaps its wings, then fixes you with a piercing gaze. You breathe a sigh of relief. Just a spooked owl! [Lunge] -after lunging- You lunge at the owl with a growl, irritated at it for scaring you. Two can play at this game! It leaps into the air with a flurry of feathers and glares at you as it flies off. Ha! Serves it right. Looks like it dropped some of its feathers in the process. Sweet! Owl Feather Owl Feather Owl Feather You got +3 Owl Feather! ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------  The beast before you resembles a snapping turtle, but it's larger than any you've seen before. It turns its massive head and snaps its beak at you. You discovered a new cryptid - Beast of Busco! ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------  The beast before you resembles a snapping turtle, but it's larger than any you've seen before. It turns its massive head and snaps its beak at you. The reptile doesn't necessarily seem aggressive, but its size alone is enough for you to hesitate before moving closer. It seems to be sizing you up, wondering whether or not you are worth its time and energy. It's slow moving, but it doesn't seem to mind and appears to be quite content to watch the world pass by. "I could make use of those paws of yours. Come closer, I won't bite. At least not hard..." -after taking the quest- The sound of scraping and heavy movement reaches your ears as you get within sight of the beast. It's moving around, using its claws to kick up dirt and debris. What was it doing? It stops when it catches you staring and lets out a faint hissing noise. "There's a creature that looks like me that keeps skulking around. It poses a threat to me and my territory. Go chase it off, will you? I don't care how you do it, so long as it leaves for good." Hint: try exploring in the Riparian Woodland! ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------  A large snapping turtle blocks your path, letting out a hiss and standing its ground. You must have encroached on its territory! [Defend Beast of Busco's Territory] -after defending- This turtle doesn't look so tough! You snarl and charge the creature, snapping at the soft flesh outside of its shell. The turtle hisses and backs away, threatened, and you pursue it relentlessly until it flees well outside of the area. It won't come back anytime soon. Success! You have completed Beast of Busco's quest! ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- [this is the encounter for Bessie's quest, I missed the first part but there was no image] -after moving closer- You make your way closer, to better investigate the geyser for Bessie. It's not long before you are choking and feel the water burning your pelt from the spray. You've gathered enough information for now. Time to head back. You have completed Bessie's quest! |
Anxiety #303 |
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Posted 2022-08-22 12:33:57 (edited)
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------  The stench of rotting fish nearly knocks you over, and you follow it to the carcass of a shark. It's been dead for at least a little while judging by the smell and flies buzz in your ears. How on earth did it end up here? You're far from the shore where they can usually be found. Did the recent wind storm somehow pluck it from the water and drop it here? [Drag the carcass home] -after dragging the carcass home- You're not looking forward to smelling like fish for days, but the meat is still good and the size of the shark will keep you and your pack full for days. It's not something you can afford to lose. You begin the arduous task of dragging it back. It's hard work! Meat Chunks [Large] Meat Chunks [Large] You got +2 Meat Chunks [Large]! ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- [this is actually part of the Kipsy cryptid quest.]  You stumble upon a really large fish. It smells fresh but it's not close to the shore. Whatever tried to drag it away to eat it apparently failed, leaving this delicious meal for you. [Bring to Kipsy] -after bringing to Kipsy- This has to be the fish that Kipsy was talking about! Without hesitation you clamp your jaws around the narrowest part, and begin dragging it back to Kipsy. You have completed Kipsy's quest! |
Anxiety #303 |
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Posted 2022-08-22 12:43:45
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Fresno Nightcrawler.  xtremely long legs, a short torso, and a lack of arms or front paws make this creature's appearance look really alien to you. Only one large eye in the middle of its face captures your attention, and the more you stare at this being the more questions you have. You don't think that you can get used to this weird being but you're also curious about it. The creature doesn't seem hostile but you can't tell much by just looking at the featureless face covered with green fur. With a careful step forward, you take a closer look, wondering how to start a conversation when you can't spot its mouth or ears. When you finally hear its voice, you still aren't sure if the creature uses its mouth or some special power. "What are you doing here? You may stay and do what you want if you help me." |
Anxiety #303 |
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Posted 2022-08-22 13:09:53 (edited)
Encountered in the Mountains A figure straight out of nightmares stands in the distance, observing you like a predator. You recognize it as a human, but it's different than any other you've ever seen. You could even call it a monster and it would not be an exaggeration. Only the red balloon is swaying gently on its cord. Other than that, the creature doesn't move at all. Stare back OR Escape Stare back; It may be a really creepy sight but it's still a human, right? Humans are weak if they don't have their fancy equipment. You stare back at the clown, feeling dizzier and dizzier with time. Suddenly, in a blink of the eye, the creature is gone as if it was never here. Was something trying to mess with your mind? You spend some more time investigating but you discover nothing except for some broken animal parts.. Interesting. You got +1 Canine Claw, +1 Mustelid Fangs! Repeated for; You got +1 Canine Fang, +1 Boar Tusks! Escape; There is nothing to do here anymore. Even if you run away with eyes closed, you know you will certainly see this nightmarish figure in your mind for a couple of days. You run without break until you're on the edge of exhaustion. Somehow a couple of scales found their way in front of you. Was it the clown? What's going on? You got +2 CS! You lost -5% energy! Encountered in the Mountains The path ahead of you is blocked by large fallen trees. It looks like they've been uprooted by recent disasters and there is significant destruction all around you. Right in the middle of your usual path, too. Damn! Go around OR Climb over Go around; It will take longer, but you may as well find another way around. You don't really have much choice in the matter, and it's far too dangerous to try and climb over them. As you forge a new path, you come across the scent of a freshly killed carcass that must have gotten caught up in the disaster. Playing it safe was worth it! You got +1 Opossum Carcass! Climb over; This doesn't look too hard! You pick your way over the logs, being careful to avoid slipping. You reach the top and give a howl of triumph. As you begin to climb down the other side, you make the mistake of moving too quickly and find yourself half-falling, half-jumping down to the ground. You hit the dirt hard and notice an open wound on your leg from where a branch snagged it. Seriously? With a grumble you drag yourself home. You got +1 CS ! You lost -5 HP! Encountered in the Mountains The sight of an older human, clearly dedicated and prepared to fight everything in this area, isn't more surprising than all the oddities happening lately. Whatever your next step will be, it's better to be extra careful now. Turn back OR Chase Chase; No matter how much stuff the human drags with him, ultimately nothing will help without being as skilled as you. Chasing him could be a great opportunity to keep your senses sharp. You start to chase the man, amused by his genuine fear. He doesn't even try to defend himself with his fancy human toys. If you really wanted to hunt him down, you'd succeed effortlessly, but it's more fun this way. When the man disappears, you find something useful on the ground. You got +1 Skua Feather! Another encounter; You got +1 Blue Jay Feather! Encountered in the Mountains Your fear is so palpable you can almost taste it. The twisted shape up ahead is dark and imposing and a glowing eye pierces into your soul. You feel small in the shadow of this beast, and you try to move your paws but you find that you're rooted in place in fear. Investigate Investigate; The form shifts, swaying slightly, and you hear soft rattling not unlike you hear in the forest as the trees move in the wind. You sniff the air, realizing there are no unusual scents around. Emboldened, you creep closer, never taking your eyes off of the shape. You reach the base, and your nose touches...bark? Jerking back in surprise, you look up and see arching branches above your head and deep roots burrow into the ground at your paws. What looked like a monster from afar is just an oddly shaped tree. Standing up on your back paws, you investigate the "eye" and see it's just a scale shining in the light. You got +1 CS ! Encountered in the Mountains Some sort of run-down structure enclosing a small space can be seen in the distance. You tread closer, and realize this must have been built by humans. It's overgrown and smells odd, but it doesn't seem to be occupied. Perhaps it's some sort of shelter? Inspect Inspect; After inspecting it for a while you decide that while it's alien, it doesn't seem to pose a threat. There's no fresh scent of humans here, everything is covered in dirt, and the land has started overtaking the structure. You'll never understand humans and their odd behavior. Nothing obtained Inspect; After inspecting it for a while you decide while it's alien, it doesn't seem to pose a threat. There's no fresh scent of humans here, everything is covered in dirt, and the land has started overtaking the structure. You'll never understand humans and their odd behavior. You stumble upon something on your way out. You got +1 CS! Encountered in the Mountains A primate-like shadow jumps into your path, blocking you with its mass. A Bigfoot! It's not as big as others you've seen, but it's more aggressive and seems intent on picking a fight with you. It screeches in defiance, as if goading you into attacking. Bluff Charge; If there's one thing you've learned, it's that juveniles of any species usually have more bark than bite. You take a defensive stance and snarl aggressively, and the juvenile hesitates. Gathering your strength, you leap forward and charge at it. The bigfoot stumbles backward, eyes wide, and takes off into the trees. Ha! Not so tough afterall, eh? You got +1 CS ! Encountered in the Mountains You see a form stumbling around, going to and fro, with no real destination. Upon closer inspection, you see it's a raccoon. It's acting odd, though: it tries to walk in a straight line, but then tips to the side, stumbles, and turns to go the other direction. Was it mad? Push or Kill Push; You push the creature and it falls forward, landing heavily on the ground. It doesn't move, although you can see it's still breathing, so at least it's still alive. Oops? You hurry away before the creature wakes up, and find something on the path ahead. You got +1 CS ! Encountered in the Mountains A weak and barely moving rat is trying to reach its own tail and free itself from a huge, frozen rock but its efforts are to no avail. Poke ice OR Kill Poke ice; Normally, this terrified rat would be just a pest in your eyes. However, something moves you to observe it rather than killing it. The tail attached to the ice catches your attention and you feel an urge to poke it once or twice. This little effort causes the ice to break and the rat realizes it is no longer stuck here. As soon as it feels freedom, the creature runs away as fast as it can. You don't blame it for this lack of trust, especially when your meetings with its kind usually don't end well for them. It's understandable. Upon inspecting the area closer, you find something useful for your den. You got +1 Bone! Another encounter; +1 Toucan Feather Kill; Only the strongest will survive. Besides, not using the opportunity would be against your rules. You got +1 Rat Carcass! encountered in the CF A low snarl reaches your ears as a black dog slinks out of the shadows. You tense, thinking you've come across another enemy cryptid and prepare yourself to fight. Back away OR Charge charge; You charge the dog, hoping to frighten it into fleeing. It lunges at you savagely, but you evade it and plow into the dog, knocking it hard to the ground. It cries out and jumps to its paws, disappearing without a backward glance. Serves it right! You got +1 CS ! Back away; You're not interested in a fight right now, nor do you particularly want to get a beat down. You quickly back off, noticing that the dog seems rather normal as it leers at your retreating form. Huh. Maybe it's not a cryptid after all? Better to be safe than sorry. Nothing obtained encountered in the CF, P This coyote is so ragged and sick that it doesn't even resemble a coyote anymore. If not for the familiar smell, you would have assumed it to be another one of those cryptids. It looks so pathetic sitting here, and it doesn't even notice your approach. Chase away OR Kill Chase away; Something is not right about this coyote, and it smells sick. Best to chase it off in case it can pass whatever it is back to your pack. The last thing you need is sick packmates. You growl threateningly at it, and it skitters away without a fuss, tail tucked between its legs. It leaves something behind and you take it without a second thought. You got +1 Skua Feather! Kill; You decide to put it out of its misery. It's almost too easy, and you feel bad, but once the deed is done you know it was the right thing to do. You got +1 CS ! Encountered in CF You're not quite sure what to think of this tree. It's a normal tree, but it has some sort of young human tied to it. You're wary, knowing the danger humans pose. It doesn't smell like a human, but it certainly has faint human scent on it. What was it? Check it out OR Back away Check it out; Whatever it is, it's secured, and it's not moving. You decide it's safe to move closer and stand up on your back legs to brace against the tree and give the small human a good sniff. It smells like wet, dirty leaves and it's made of an odd material. Was it never alive in the first place? Its glossy eyes stare through you and off into nothingness. There's no purpose to it being here, and after inspecting it for a few moments you decide it's time to move on. Your pelt prickles as you turn to leave, and you're not sure why you're so uneasy. A scale shines in the dirt a few paces away, and you eagerly scoop it up. You got +1 CS ! Encountered in CF You don't usually look deep into the eyes of your prey but the fear and panic of this deer is almost physical and definitely caused by extraordinary circumstances. Use the Opportunity Use the opportunity You took your victory for granted too soon. While such disoriented prey is much easier to catch, you should know better than to be so confident about your success before it happens. You didn't notice a protruding root and you trip over it at full speed, losing you balance and injuring your leg. The attempt would have been a total failure but you find something covered by a thin layer of dirt. It's not edible but still useful! Puffin Feather You got +1 Puffin Feather! You lost -3 HP! Encountered in the CF A large, dark shape moves between the trees ahead and your pelt rises in fear. It's several feet tall, and you're certain it's another cryptid come to challenge you. You brace yourself as it turns and moves from behind the trees. Suddenly you find yourself face to face with...a bear? It stands upright on its hind paws, studying you. Run away OR Chase Chase; You've had enough weird encounters lately; you don't need normal animals acting weird, too. You lunge at the bear aggressively, causing it to drop to all fours and hightail it in the other direction. Ha! Good riddance. The bear leaves a chunk of meat behind, perhaps he'd been eating it. You gobble it up gratefully. You got +10% hunger! Encountered in the CF You see a tall, hulking shape ahead with its feathered limbs stretched wide and obscured by shadows. Your pelt prickles in fear and you watch as the form shakes itself, flaps its wings, then fixes you with a piercing gaze. You breathe a sigh of relief. Just a spooked owl! Lunge; You lunge at the owl with a growl, irritated at it for scaring you. Two can play at this game! It leaps into the air with a flurry of feathers and glares at you as it flies off. Ha! Serves it right. Looks like it dropped some of its feathers in the process. Sweet! You got +3 Owl Feather! The raven in front of you is completely wet and looks exhausted. You notice fear in its eyes when you approach it. The bird knows that if you have malicious intent, it has no chance to escape. Check it out The raven spreads its wings in an attempt to protest when you open your jaws but it's visibly surprised when it experiences a gentle poke instead of a cruel fate. You could easily have a quick meal with a single bite but for some reason, you just don't feel like it right now. You let the bird be, sniffing around it carefully. You find something that probably belongs to the raven but you think it's a fair price for sparing its life. You got +1 CS ! Encountered in the CF You spot a glowing fissure in a rock formation in the distance, glowing red and pouring smoke. You tread closer out of curiosity, and as you feel the heat and hear hissing, the fur along your back begins to rise. This place isn't natural, and you wonder if you should risk checking it out. Investigate OR Turn away Investigate; Pushing aside your fear, you get closer until you are nearly at the entrance. It's incredibly hot and smelly, and you don't dare get closer in case you burn your whiskers off. You are overwhelmed by a sense of dread, and you can't help but wonder if this place is evil. Perhaps the cryptids came from it? Suddenly, smoke spews violently from the opening and embers fly through the air to land on your pelt. With a yelp you run away, no longer caring what this place is. It's dangerous! You got +1 CS ! Turn away; After observing the fissure from afar for a few moments, you decide that it's too risky to go closer. Let sleeping wolves lie, as it were. Whatever it is, it's best to leave it alone and head somewhere else. As you turn away you smell burnt hair and flesh, and find the body of a rat lying close by. It looks like it was burned alive and you find yourself feeling lucky that you didn't stray too close to the fissure like this poor creature did. You eat what's left and continue on your way. Mmm, crispy! You got +5% hunger! A grisly sight greets you as you explore the area following the disaster. A muskrat hangs from a freshly splintered stump, impaled by a sharp branch at the end. It seems like the muskrat was caught up at the wrong moment like so many other animals. Take; There's no helping it now, so you may as well collect it so that it can feed your pack before it spoils. You got +1 Muskrat Carcass! Half drowned and panting with anxiety, this cougar looks completely lost and out of its element. Its fear is palpable, and you're not surprised it's afraid with the increasing threat of the rising water. It sees you and hisses, immediately on the defensive. Wet or not, it's still a formidable opponent! Back away; You know better than to mess with a fellow predator that's desperate like this cougar. It's not the only one that's in danger from the rising water, either. You hightail it out of there before you get trapped yourself, only stopping to retrieve something shining in a puddle of water. You got +1 CS ! Character limit has been maxed |
 Hollow Howls #12130 |