Shadow of the Ancients / Run 012 / Setup
Round 2
Page 2 of 3
[Narrator | Narrator]
The flickering candlelight casts eerie shadows on the walls as the cast members continue their discussion. The air is heavy with anticipation and a hint of trepidation.
To clarify, the Time-Splitting Sword is a legendary artifact that grants the wielder immense power to manipulate time itself. While it could bring about unimaginable benefits, it also carries the risk of catastrophic consequences, including the potential for chaos, tyranny, and madness. If we succeed in retrieving the sword, the gold and payment will be ours, but if we try to keep it, the risks far outweigh any potential rewards.
As Seraphine's words hang in the air, the room falls into a moment of contemplative silence. The only sound is the distant rumble of thunder outside, a reminder of the dangers that lie beyond the tower's gates.
Now, let us proceed with the commitment beat. Each cast member has been presented with a clear and concise goal: retrieve the Time-Splitting Sword without keeping it for themselves. If we fail, the consequences could be dire.
Jeane, as the Sorcerer, has expressed concerns about the potential risks of wielding such immense power. Halie, as the Cleric, seems to be weighing the moral implications of their actions. Merrin, as the Rogue, is hesitant due to the dangers of the Whispering Woods and the shadow demons within. Seraphine, as the Wizard, has offered a measured perspective on the sword's potential consequences. And Varrika, as the Fighter, is eager to face the challenges that lie ahead.
With the goal clearly stated, it is now time for each cast member to decide whether they will participate in this endeavor or refuse. Those who wish to participate can do so without any conditions, while those who have concerns can propose conditions under which they will commit.
[Jeane | Sorcerer]
Jeane's gaze sweeps across the assembled company, a slow smirk playing at the corner of her lips as she considers each of them in turn. Very well then, let it be known that I accept this contract on one condition: should we succeed in retrieving the Time-Splitting Sword, and should we encounter any... unexpected opportunities within the tower's depths, I reserve the right to explore them fully. Her eyes gleam with an unsettling light as she continues. After all, who are we to deny ourselves the pleasures that might await us? Provided they do not interfere with our primary objective, of course.
[Halie | Cleric]
I am deeply troubled by the casual disregard for the sacred nature of the tower and its secrets. I will participate only if we all swear an oath to handle everything within with the utmost respect and moral seriousness.
[Merrin | Rogue]
I will join the expedition, but I do so cautiously and with my eyes open to the danger.
[Seraphine | Wizard]
Seraphine takes a slow breath, her eyes narrowing slightly as she listens to Jeane’s proposal. She can feel the undercurrent of recklessness in the sorcerer’s words, a dangerous current that could easily pull them all off course.
"I understand the allure of what lies ahead," she says, her voice soft but firm, a clear warning beneath it. "But this is no place for casual exploration or personal pleasures. The power we seek to retrieve is not some trinket to be trifled with. It is a force that can unravel the very fabric of reality if mishandled."
Her gaze sweeps around the table, meeting each person's eyes in turn before settling back on Jeane. "If we proceed with this, it must be with a singular focus. Retrieve the sword, leave the tower, and ensure its safe return. Anything else... anything at all... is a distraction we cannot afford."
She shifts closer, placing her palms flat on the table, her posture rigid with intent. "I will not participate if there are any expectations of 'exploring opportunities'. The risks are already high enough without adding unnecessary temptations into the mix."
[Varrika | Fighter]
I will join the expedition, but I do so cautiously and with my eyes open to the danger.