Exodus: Guns & Gore

QJ and Aji took a moment to rest. After the first mob, QJ would single pull them back to Aji, then he would Feign Death, restealth and stake them while she stabbed at them with her spear. Aji's levels were climbing even more rapidly than his. He had made four levels while she had gone up eight.

"We can move to the next room." QJ had been patiently single pulling mobs to a central location so that they could continue to advance. This was the third such room.

"You're very formidable QJ." Aji drank some water from a canteen he offered and then handed it back. Mostly it had been fairly easy fighting. Vampires were weak to a stealth and stake strategy. There were a few occasions when they were unable to utilize it, QJ had been able to grapple with creatures whose strength was much greater than his own. For the first time ever, Aji had fought for her life. The impact made her dark elf blood boil.

QJ patted her on the back, "you are doing well. I'm worried about our progress, without a hud map, we can't even be sure where we are."

Aji used her staff to draw a quick picture of their route on the floor. "We've rerouted because of dead-ends twice, although I can't confirm it, I believe we are heading toward the river."

System Message: Your Head's Up Display has resumed functioning.

Destroy the Vampire Lair

Quest Type: Guild Event

Defeat Vampire Lord Waylo Maelstrom

in the depths of Briar Rose.

*Raid Speak: Ringo* Welcome back QJ!

*Raid Speak: QJ* Sweet Mother... I love you guys.

*Raid Speak: Breeze* We are beautiful right?

*Raid Speak: Lotte* Sweet words.

*Raid Speak Sara* I love you too QJ.

Raid Leadership has been transferred to you.

Aji had been added to the Command group.

*Raid Speak: Ringo* We've taken care of the mobs in the pit and are making our way to your location.

*Raid Speak: QJ* Awesome, I'll study the map while we wait.

QJ brought up the map and the Raid Sheet. He noticed Chainy had tagged along, she was already at level eight. QJ moved her to the Command group to increase her XP.

Command Group

QJ

Ringo

Breeze

Sara

Aji

Unchained

"Can I stay? I don't want to leave." Aji's armor was scratched and dented in several places, her short white hair was splattered with black blood.

"Of course," they studied the map together. The room they were in was connected to an even larger room. The larger room had three hallways leading from it, each of these opened up to a small room.

Aji zoomed in on the largest room. "We've completely explored this place except for those four rooms, That means..."

"Yep, that means the boss is close." QJ smiled at her, "you're doing well."

"I picked up a skill." She looked shocked when she said it. "Look."


Aji Sai

Level 22

NPC Class: Unknown

Strength 35

Endurance 29

Intelligence 38

Agility 33

Luck 5

Charisma 28

Skills

Tailor 100

Scholar 100

Spear 4

"A weapon skill? Very nice Aji. Spear is actually a really good weapon skill to have. "

QJ turned his attention back to the Raid sheet. There were five third years in the raid. Maya and Nina had been close enough to join Umber, Dessi, and Til. The raid had been divided into five groups of six. They were light on heals. One cleric, two medics and two gamblers. Gamblers could fill in as off-heals, but they couldn't take the load for long. They'd have to rely heavily on Sara.

The main Raid Group arrived a few minutes later. It was standing room only in the small room.

*Raidspeak: QJ* Sato, come with me. We'll scout out the main room.

*Fade*

You have faded from view.

QJ moved through the door, Sato stealthed and followed close behind. The room was a large circle with three hallways leading from the far side. The center part of the room was raised up and on it sat a huge throne.

*Raidspeak: QJ* Sweet Georgia..."

*Raidspeak: Sato* That's a big ass Vampire.

The man on the throne looked like a Knight. He was heavily armored, with long gray hair that hung down his back. His fingernails were long and wickedly curved. He had a six-gun belted around his waist and the handle of a dagger stuck up out of one boot.

Lord Maelstrom

Vampire Lord: Level 50

*Raidspeak: QJ* Don't get too close Sato.

I SMELL YOUR BLOOD MORTALS!

In a flash, he was standing in front of Sato.

Sato has been slain.

QJ had a stake in one hand, he dived forward slamming it into the Vampire Lord's chest.

Lord Maelstrom is immune to Instant kills.

QJ has hit target for 0 points.

QJ has been slain.

*Raid Speak Sara*QJ!

*Raid Speak QJ* Don't come in. Wait one moment. Sato, don't recover your corpse.

QJ hovered over his corpse, waiting patiently until Lord Maelstrom walked back to his throne and sat down.

*Raid Speak QJ* Sara, come to the door and rez both of us, don't enter the room.

The door pushed open and Sara stood in the entryway. She frowned at the sight of her brother's corpse.

You have been offered a resurrection by Sara. Do you Accept?

"Yes."

QJ waited until Sato was rezzed also.

*Raid Speak QJ* Everyone come in slowly, make an immediate right and stay close to the walls. The walls are a safety zone as long as he's on his throne.

*Raid Speak QJ* We'll check out the three rooms first, then come back and devise a plan. Take the far right Sato, be careful.

*Fade*

You have faded from view.

QJ hugged the wall as he moved left toward the far door. The door was heavy and was made of white metal. He pushed it open slowly, the small room had one occupant. A female dressed scantily in skin-hugging red armor and red leather boots that came up to her knees. She was standing in front of a large basin of blood.

Elena

Vampire Priestess

Level 40

QJ shut the door carefully and continued to hug the wall as he moved toward the center door.

*Raidspeak: Sato* There's a 40 level Vampire Priestess name Victoria.

*Raidspeak: QJ* She playing around in a basin of blood?

*Raidspeak: Sato* Yep.

*Raidspeak: QJ* Okay, head back. I'm checking the middle door.

The middle room had a 40 level Vampire Priestess named Sonja. The blood basin was the same as the other three. QJ headed back to the entrance.

*Raidspeak: QJ* What do you think Chainy?

*Raidspeak: Unchained* If those three rooms aren't connected, then this will be pretty straight forward.

*Raidspeak: QJ* I want to assume they are connected. If I'm wrong then we don't really lose anything.

*Raidspeak: Unchained* That changes things then. All three small rooms might have to be emptied before he can even be damaged.

*Raidspeak: Ringo* There might be an order of events or even all three at the same time.

*Raidspeak: QJ* Those three squares on his throne, see them?

*Raidspeak: Sara* Snakes, jewels and flowers.

*Raidspeak: QJ* Good enough, we'll call it that. The snake design was on the far left door. And the middle door had the jewel design.

*Raidspeak: Sato* Crap, I didn't notice what design was on the right door.

*Raidspeak: QJ* Doesn't matter, must be the flower design.

*Raidspeak: Unchained* See the four statues? I'd have the Riders climb up there. They'd be clear of any AoE damage.

*Raidspeak: QJ* Good idea. Junz, Malox, Wreed, and Chainy, get in position.

*Raidspeak: Ringo* Let's switch Dessi and Sara. Sara should be with Breeze and Umber.

QJ switched out Dessi for Sara and moved Breeze and Chainy to the Main group.

*Raidspeak: QJ* Take good care of those tanks, Sara.

*Raidspeak: Sara* Yep, you know I will.

*Raidspeak: QJ* The command group will take the left door. The second group will take the middle door and the third group will take the right door.

*Raidspeak: QJ* That leaves the tank/cleric group to stay on Maelstrom, along with our four Riders.

*Raidspeak: QJ* Listen, we'll need to pay close attention and adjust to any changes. Shout out if something seems wrong. If there's nothing else, we'll move into position in two minutes.

*Three-Tails has cast AoE Raging Bull*

+100 ATK to all Allies.

*Raidspeak: QJ* Nice buff, keep Maelstrom slowed no matter what.

*Raidspeak: Three-Tails* Yep.

QJ led his group to the left door and waited until the other two groups arrived at their door.

*Raidspeak: QJ* We'll start off with the Main Group attacking Maelstrom. Hit him Breeze!

*Breeze has activated Blood Feud*

Lord Maelstrom has been taunted.

*Three-Tails has cast Tar Pit*

Lord Maelstrom has been slowed by 60 percent.

QJ watched as the main group attacked Maelstrom. The damage was fairly light, but Maelstrom's life bar was slowly going down. 92 percent, 91 percent, 90 percent.

*Raidspeak: Sara* QJ, the snake square is lit up. He's regenerating his hit points.

*Raidspeak: QJ* Command group inside!

QJ pushed open the door and moved inside. The priestess position had changed, she was glowing red, one of her hands was in the basin.

*Kneecap*

Elena has been slowed.

*Quick Shot*

Ringo has hit target for 2,132 damage.

*Aimed Shot*

(Head-Shot Bonus)

QJ has hit target for 6,230 damage

The priestess removed her hand from the basin and jumped toward QJ, Aji stepped in front of him with her spear extended.

*Raidspeak: QJ* Just keep her on the end of the spear. Don't worry about damage.

*Raidspeak: Aji* Okay.

*Hot Pack*

Dessi has healed Aji for 6,455 hp.

*Double Direct Shot*

Ringo has hit target for 2123 damage and 1727 damage.

*Raidspeak: Sara* He's no longer regenerating.

*Aimed Shot*

[Head-Shot Bonus x Critical Hit]

QJ has hit target for 16,230 damage

*Quick Shot*

Ringo has hit target for 4,132 damage.

*Raidspeak: Sara* QJ, the jewel door is lit up!

*Raidspeak: QJ* Middle team attack now!

Priestess Elena is now immune to damage.

*Raidspeak: QJ* Left group stop attacking. Everyone, take your cues from Sara. Whatever square she calls out. That team attacks, the other door teams will standby.

QJ checked his gear while Dessi caught up on heals. "Doing okay Aji?"

The dark elf nodded, "doing great, thanks."

*Raidspeak: Sara* The flower square is lit up, Right team go! Maelstrom is at eighty percent.

*Raidspeak: QJ* The blood basins go down with each rotation. This is Maelstroms lifeline. The order may change, be ready to adjust to whatever Sara calls out.

The snake square lit up the next two times, as predicted the order started to vary. With the groups attacking at Sara's call, they continued to whittle away at Maelstrom. When he was at 10 percent all three basins shattered and the door groups were forced to defend themselves.

*Raidspeak: Sara* All three squares are lit up now QJ.

*Raidspeak: Unchained* I think it might be important to kill them all at the same time.

*Raidspeak: QJ* It can't hurt. Left side is at 5 percent.

*Raidspeak: Sato* Right door is at 8 percent.

*Raidspeak: Talia* Middle door is 6 percent.

*Raidspeak: QJ* All door teams stop attacking at one percent and then call out.

QJ and his team kept attacking until they were at one percent. Then they focused on defending and healing.

*Raidspeak: QJ* Left Door is at one percent.

*Raidspeak: Sato* Right door also!

*Raidspeak: Thalia* We are there too!

*Raidspeak: QJ* All Door Teams attack with everything! Then head out and help finish Maelstrom!

*Six-Gun Fan*

Ringo has emptied her gun into target for 5414 damage, 3174 damage, 3111 damage.

*Aimed Shot*

[Head-Shot Bonus x Critical Hit]

QJ has hit target for 18,450 damage

Elena has been slain! You have gained 44,500 xp and 22,050 credits.

*Ding* Level 26

QJ ran through the door, "let's go guys!"

An ear-piercing screech caused QJ to cover his ears.

YOU HAVE KILLED THEM! I SHALL MAKE YOU PAY!

*Raidspeak: QJ* He's gonna rampage, shield the Cleric!

Lord Maelstrom charged toward Sara, faster then anyone could move. Just before he arrived Aji stepped in front of Sara with her spear braced against the floor and pointing outward. The Vampire Lord impaled his own chest one the spear. He seemed to freeze for a moment, disbelief in his eyes and then peace as his body slowly wilted away into a pile of ashes.

Aji Sai has slain Lord Maelstrom.

You have gained 120,500 xp and 151,230 credits.

You have gained favor from the Royal Faction.

*Ding* Level 27

*Ding* Level 28

"Alright!!" QJ cheered Aji, after a moment the rest of the raid joined him. A small smile played on her lips.

*Raidspeak: Breeze* Holy Crap... I'm level 23!

*Raidspeak: Ringo* Nice job everyone.

QJ went back into the left door and looted Elena, all three priestesses dropped the same type of leather armor. Elena's was red, Sonja's was black and Victoria dropped yellow. They had high agility and BR ratings and were specifically female only.

*Raidspeak: Ringo* Before you roll, please preview the fitting. This armor is quite revealing.

Breeze couldn't wear leather armor, but that didn't stop her from previewing it, "Wow... that's some serious sexah!"

*Raidspeak: QJ* No ones rolling?

*Raidspeak: Dessi* I'll take the red one.

*Raidspeak: Aji* Could I have the black one?

*Raidspeak: QJ* Yep... anyone for the yellow one?

*Raidspeak: QJ* Let's see what the Lord dropped.

Ancient Blood

Increased all stats by 10.

Permanently infects recipient

with the vampire curse.

One Shot

Diagram: Rifle

A detailed drawing of

a rifle built by the Gunsmith

Waylo Maelstrom.

*Raidspeak: Unchained* If it says permanent, you won't be able to get it cured later.

*Raidspeak: QJ* Raise your hand if you're a gunsmith? Oh, just me? Thanks.

QJ placed the rifle diagram in his inventory. He glanced at Ringo. "Want that blood?"

Ringo shook her head, "permanent sounds really bad."

QJ nodded and then removed the stopper from the bottle and drank it down. A red glow enveloped him for a moment while he made a face, "gah... that was horrible."

All your Stats have been increased by 10.

You are Immune to Vampirism.

*Raidspeak: Sara* QJ!!

*Raidspeak: Breeze* Woah... ballsy.

*Raidspeak: Unchained* Okay, I didn't see that coming.

*Raidspeak: QJ* Relax everyone, I'm immune to curses.

QJ linked his stats to the raid.

Kingslayer QJ

Wrangler: Level 28

Agility 50

Perception 50

Stamina 37

Wisdom 24

Strength 35

Command 20

Total BR: 10

Skills

Pistol III 44/100 Level 4

Shotgun II 25/100 Level 7

Gunsmith 21

Indomitable Will

+5 All stats, immune

to curses.

*Raidspeak: Sara* Getting strong QJ!

*Raidspeak: Sato* Excuse me while I go throw up.

*Raidspeak: Breeze* I feel like you should ask me out now. Are we there yet?

*Raidspeak: QJ* No, we are miles away from that.

The 'return to keep' icon was grayed out, so QJ and the rest of the raid slowly made their way back to the first level of Briar Rose. QJ led them out into the courtyard, he stopped when he saw the royal coach.

A moment later Chancellor Ivy stepped out, she smiled as she approached QJ and Ringo. "Well done, I can't believe you were able to rid Briar Rose of that terrible infestation." Her manner told them she wouldn't speak in any more detail.

QJ smiled and bowed slightly. "As always, we serve at the King's pleasure."

Chancellor Ivy has a favorable impression of you.

Ringo bowed also. "One Problem will continue its record of service."

Ivy handed Ringo a silver scroll. Ringo looked at the scroll for a moment and then quickly opened it.

System Message: One Problem Guild Keep has been upgraded to Level Two. Land ownership has increased. A small hamlet has been located on your Keep property.

The guild members cheered loudly. Ringo and QJ stood in front of Ivy, waiting for her to leave. She merely smiled at the two of them and remained where she was. Finally, Ringo dismissed the Raid and sent everyone back to the Keep.

Ivy bowed slightly and handed each of them a slip of parchment. "The King has his eye on the two of you. He looks forward to seeing you both at the Star Crossed Ball."

System Message: Ringo's rank has increased to Viscountess.

System Message: QJ's rank has increased to Viscount.

Ringo watched the coach pull away, she mounted her horse and waited for QJ. "Let's ride back."

QJ nodded and summoned Scorch. "Damn. Now, I'm afraid to look at that parchment.

Ringo laughed at the face he made, "yeah, me too."

He turned Scorch to face Aji. "Were you able to get the staffing plan done?"

Aji gave him a slight nod. "I've talked to the craftsmen. The foundation and roof are solid. Complete restoration will take about three weeks."

QJ looked at the rundown manor. "The Cottage in the back is yours."

"Thank you sir." She was still holding the sharpened staff from the raid. It was covered in blood.

"Keep that staff for memories, I'll bring you a proper spear." QJ waved and was about to leave when he pulled up. "Let's be honest for a moment Aji."

Aji raised an eyebrow, "I will tell you the absolute truth."

"Of those people you assigned to staff Briar Rose, how many of them have an issue with you be the daughter of Kimo Sai?"

Aji frowned and looked down, she didn't answer.

"Let's be clear, you work for me. Assigned by Serli Jol correct?"

"Yes sir!"

"Remove the names of everyone who might resent you." QJ frowned at her, "is that a problem?"

"No sir."

"See to it, this is your home too. We only bring friends into our home." QJ turned his horse and matched pace with Ringo as they trotted toward the Keep.

QJ said goodbye to Ringo in the Keep Hall before heading down to the Cellar. He accessed the 'Defend the Keep' Instance and ported in.

Cleo hovered over the Keep Wall, she was talking to the two Incider Spiders. There were bodies of both man and bee littered across the Courtyard. She stopped speaking when she saw him and immediately flew to him.

"QJ!" She smiled at him, sending him warm feelings. She was still naked, but she landed in front of him anyway. "I missed you."

QJ patted her head, she was a bit over five feet tall. "I brought you something." QJ handed her the yellow armor from the vampire raid.

Firefly [Female Only]

Armor: Legendary

+20 to Movement speed.

+20 to Agility.

BR Rating: 12

QJ tried not to stare when she put it on. It clung to every curve, it was low cut in the front and completely backless. The outfit was yellow and included a pair of yellow boots. "Woah... that looks good Cleo."

"I love it QJ!" She flung her arms around him and hugged him tightly.

QJ nearly staggered under the mental pressure. Her feeling of happiness washed over him. "Cleo, can you curb the emotions a bit? It's overwhelming."

"How will you know how I feel if I do that?"

"Just tell me Cleo, that works too."

Cleo nodded in agreement. "I like you QJ. I love this armor too. I like fighting with you. It makes me happy when you summon me to fight for you. I will protect you from harm. I like it when.."

QJ held up a hand to interrupt, "know what? Let's just forget what I said, I can handle your heartfelt feelings. "How are the drones?"

"They were so stupid at the start, but they are doing much better now." Cleo raised a hand and summoned a drone.

Drone

Killer-Bee

Level 11

HP 150/150

Strength 10

Agility 10

Stamina 10

BR:3

QJ looked at the stats. "Not bad. Have you been able to advance far in the instance?"

Cleo nodded, "we've finished it the last four times. We still finish with only fifty percent of our army. We'll keep at it QJ!"

QJ took a deep breath and concentrated on sending her feelings of warmth and thankfulness.

She gasped in surprise, "that was wonderful QJ!"

"I'll keep working on it Cleo, the armor looks great on you."

**********

He found her a few minutes later on the balcony outside her office. She was sleeping on a very comfortable looking sofa that someone had dragged out there. She sensed his approach when he came out and started to sit up.

"It's fine Robs." QJ sat next to her and pushed her back down. She smiled, placing her head on his lap.

"Back safe and sound I see," Robin covered a small yawn with her hand. She had been working long hours.

"Yes, thanks for your help." He leaned back and stared at the night sky. GnG had more stars then TAP, "it will be a few weeks before Briar Rose is ready to move in."

She smiled sleepily at him. "You are really getting strong fast."

"Why don't you go to sleep, I'll stay here for a while and relax with you."

"Okay, thanks... Night hun."

"Night Robs."