Screw The Shield!

To My Dearest Ebbie,

So how has your Christmas vacation been? First of all I'd like to greet you a Merry Christmas. I sent you something in the mail and you'll definitely like it, I'm sure of that. Now that I've sent you my present for you, make sure you send mine, alright? Good. Anyway, let me tell you something interesting that happened the other day. I was on a little trip to Libra via the Smoldering Swamp until one of those Fake Santas appeared and stole my shield. It ran so fast that I was persistent enough to chase it all the way to Valid Raeth.

Using Toby as my aerial eye, I was able to track down the Fake Santa and my shield. Just when as I was about to lash my anger at him, a large shadow loomed behind me and there he was, the commander of all skeletons, Marduk. The Fake Santa made an evil grin as I realized this was a trap. This must be Marduk's form of revenge the last time Zak and I escaped from his clutches.

I'll cut to the chase because you might be in a Christmas party or something. I got this from Marduk after I beat him to a pulp.

I've heard this is pretty rare, and I still wanted to get my shield back. However, the Fake Santa successfully made his escape, and I was no longer able to track him down. I felt so bad that I kept punching this wall in a random back alley. That shield was worth a fortune!

When I marched into the Libra marketplace however, merchants kept pestering me if I was selling the Skeleton Bandage I had. It doesn't offer much defense, however I feel like I can focus more on evading and attacking enemies now that I don't have a shield to worry about. I can always block with my sword, so I guess this was a rather fateful encounter in the end.

I still have a backup shield anyway, although I prefer using this one-handed stance for now, just like my novice warrior days. Lightweight, and free fighting style.

Perhaps you'd want one of these as a Christmas present? I've heard Myrms like you can't equip these things!

Stay safe, and watch out for those Fake Santas!

From Your Dear Brother,

Prawnt

P.S. In case you're wondering why my sword is glowing... I'll tell you about it some other time.

Christmas Heroics

To My Dear Friends Kewkies and Kreme,

I'd like to thank you both for helping me with my ordeal with Sambaba the other day. Normally I would go myself to a mission like that, but from the bottom of my heart, thanks for the company. If it weren't for Kewkies' magic and Kreme's uhh... speedy move thingy we wouldn't have beaten the living lights out of that fat chieftain. As a gift this Christmas, I'm sending both of you a HUNDRED slices of cake each. Go on, eat your heart out! (And remember to exercise a lot afterwards.)

Anyway, I've heard both of you guys are working very hard to attain your next job tier. Don't give up! At your current level, training can be very grueling and slow. When I was still a junior knight, it was as if I almost wanted to give up and inherit my father's shrimp business instead. Well that didn't stop me now, didn't it? As a fighter of justice, I had a duty to uphold!

You two, as a battlemage and jester have your own respective duties to uphold as well! Kewkies! If you take your magic more seriously you could make it go an extra mile and conquer mountains! As a battlemage, you study and research new powerful kinds of magic to keep enemies at bay! And Kreme! Become more sociable and watch your dance moves shine in the field of battle! ATTAIN A MANLY ENTERTAINER AURA FOR THAT IS WHAT YOU ARE! And most of all, do not forget... THE HEROIC POSE.

Yes, it may sound silly at first, but the HEROIC POSE is always a good finisher. You've probably seen me do it while we were fighting Sambaba. Why is it that I keep making all these poses before I deliver a blow? That's to distract the enemy and to make my moves more predictable! ...Wait! Forget that last bit, it's to make your moves more flashy to distract the enemy! Yes!

AND THE BEST PART IS, YOUR THEME MUSIC PLAYS AS YOU SLAY THE ENEMY! HOW COOL IS THAT???

Though I believe it's safer to just use the HEROIC POSE as a finishing move. It makes you look really cool in the end too. Just be sure not to die before you execute it! (When I was still a novice knight, White Tooth got me when I did that.)

Now I've heard you need more help with Bahamole yes? He's probably kidnapped some unfortunate travelers again. This is also a perfect opportunity for me to investigate why it snows inside the Candescent Caverns!

So I wish both of you a Merry Christmas this season!

The Defender of Justice, Bane of All Malice,

Prawnt The Tempura Knight

P.S. I attached several samples of theme music you may want to use when you fight enemies. It really gets your adrenalin pumping.

Promoted!

To My Dearest Ebbie,

Things are starting to loosen up around Camp Steven, so many of us paladins were relieved from our posts due to the decrease in attacks. It seems even the bad guys want to enjoy the holidays. So I felt happy after I packed up my stuff and went to the Port of Winds to check on things, I found out that the whole town has set up Christmas decor and it has started snowing. I found it strange that it would be snowing in the PoW, but I guess it's because of the holiday this time of year.

I then came across this red-nosed reindeer named Rudolph. He was looking for help around town but unfortunately for him, no one really remembers who he is. He says he's the reindeer who helps guide the path for Santa's sleigh, but there has been a problem. Santa has gone missing and he has had trouble finding him. He has already sent countless adventurers on his quest, but there hasn't been any good news so far. Being the honorable knight that I am, I accepted his plea for help.

Reports say those evil dwarves are the prime suspects to this crime, and they dressed up as Santa Claus to attempt to fool unwary people and rob them of their belongings. During this time of year, these fakes could be found anywhere. I started with the route from Fungoid Village and into the Gods Sanctuary until I came across a stubby little man in red. That skull-shaped belt buckle wasn't a good sign, this was definitely one of those Fake Santas I've heard so much about.

Without a moment's notice, I jumped the Fake Santa from behind and started to beat the living lights out of him. When he had enough, he cried and ran away, dropping all sorts of goodies he stole from other adventurers. I took the bag of presents he stole and went to the nearest precinct to give my report. He also dropped some pet food. Inviting Toby back for Christmas also crossed my mind.

To my surprise, I found this notice in gold on the bulletin board. On that notice was a list of those who have passed the "hidden test" to achieve the Templar rank, a title given to noteworthy paladins who have been working hard. I found my name on the 17th!!! Isn't that great Ebbie? That means I'm getting a new set of armor!

My new armor really compliments my knightly-ness, although I already have another custom set of armor. And Toby also visited me for this season! Maybe Christmas this year would be great after all! I want to thank Santa, where ever he is right now!

Stay safe Ebbie, have a wonderful Christmas!

From Your Dear Brother,

Prawnt

Christmas Ahoy!

To My Dearest Ebbie,

It has been quite some time since I've last written you a letter. Work has been hard around Camp Steven lately, as we have been fighting off endless waves of monsters here and there. It's getting real boring sometimes, but knowing that the holidays are coming, I may have a chance to actually meet you again. In your last letter, you told me of your exploits at the Van Cliff Dungeon. Are you sure you didn't catch a cold or anything? The last time I went there, I almost

froze to death! I guess I'm too accustomed to the tropical climate in Libra, huh?

You might be seeing something familiar afoot very soon. The Holiday Season, better known as Christmas. Yes Ebbie, it's that time of year when people gather and sing those silly Christmas carols and decorate houses with all those gaudy decorations that hurt my eyes. For me, each Christmas decoration is an eyesore. Nothing but humbug for me. Call me a scrooge if you want to, but I don't see why Santa Claus should be considered

the Father of Christmas. (And why people have to dress up in those weird elf costumes.)

Well you know that... day right? Bah, anyway. The blizzard around Camp Steven has gotten stronger than before now that Christmas is near. The only reason I want to spend my holiday leave credits is to be with you. That's less two knightly fatigues, three patrol rounds, and one night sentry duty. All worth it just to be with you.

Because of the abundance of snow in the area, Paris brought a lot of this snow to life and turned it into evil snowmen to do her evil bidding. According to reports, these snowmen have been harassing travelers all over the continent, as the dark magic has enabled them to become resistant to all types of heat. Worry not, these monsters are probably mass-produced so they should be easy to dispose of.

The Spirit of Christmas? Sorry Ebbie, I really don't have it. I just can't feel it this season.

Stay safe from snowmen.

From Your Dear Brother,

Prawnt

Knights Take Exams Too???

To My Dearest Ebbie,

The past week has been really scary and stressful as we have heard that the Order is downsizing some paladins that haven't been performing well, or have not been fighting up to its standards. In order to weed out all those who have deteriorated from lack of action, the top brass have devised a series of tests based on the several Knightly virtues for us knights and paladins. Those who pass get to stay in the Order, while those who get kicked out... might have to end up as mercenaries unfortunately.

There are eight Knightly Virtues. Humility, Compassion, Courtesy, Devotion, Mercy, Purity, Peace, and Endurance. We were all given a simple test for each. I really don't want to go into detail of what we've been through, so I'll just tell you the result of each test I went through.

Humility: Basically a test of humility. For some reason, I passed this one. It was a B.

Compassion: Who knew a swarm of beggars could be so annoying? I think I got a C+ here.

Courtesy: Being courteous to ladies is my thing but... did they really have to make us serve MEN? No, seriously sis. MEN. Not women. MEN. I got a B. (Seriously there is a lack of female paladins in the Order.)

Devotion: They made us recite the oath lots of times here. I got an A!

Mercy: We had to weaken as many enemies as we could without killing them. This was tough because I usually go all out. B- .

Purity: F as in FFFFFFFFFFUUUUUUUUUUUUU--- (I got an F!) I BLAME TEH PORNZZZZ AND I COULD NOT HELP BUT FAAAAAAAP *crai*

Peace: They were talking about inner peace here. But since I am quick to anger... (C+)

Endurance: HA! My specialty! I got an SSS here! (Um, that actually stands for Social Security Services Insurance because I got hit pretty badly after the test. I got an A for effort though.)

In the end, I actually passed despite my one failure being Purity. Argh. At least I got this nifty little badge in the end! Don't you think it looks cool?

I'll see you around Camp Steven soon.

Stay safe! Love ya!

From our Dear Brother,
Prawnt

Lingo.

To My Dearest Ebbie,

It has been quite some time since I've last written a letter to you. I have been very busy for the past days and weeks, as more and more monsters have been venturing out of the Drakos tower in hordes, and us paladin regiments were deployed in full force to act as a buffer to these incoming enemies. Strangely, many of these monsters were weak, and I was able to hold my ground even when the scariest-looking of monsters started to attack.

Anyway, after a few waves of monsters, I was sent by our squad captain to track down Forest Watch Gallia to ask for his help. He gave me a note because I was warned many Fungoids speak a strange language, and you'd have to perform an act of trust to these mushroom folk if you want to understand their language in an instant. I set off for the Forgotten Forest to look for Gallia.


Well, I was warned all right. He spoke some sort of gibberish when I approached him. Fortunately I had that note my captain gave me and he read it. The note was in Fungoid, to my surprise. With that he nodded and asked for my Camp Steven scroll just by pointing at what I was holding. In the end we were able to install all sorts of early warning devices around Camp Steven thanks to Gallia.

So performing an act of trust would make me learn another language? That would be awesome right? If that was true for other cultures and stuff. At least I wouldn't have to stay in school to memorize these:


I also heard the teachers for this language are real monsters.

Stay safe, and communicate!

From Your Dear Brother,
Prawnt

Started Working.

To My Dearest Readers/Fans/Friends,

I write this letter not as Prawnt the Tempura Knight but as Prawnt, the author of To My Dearest. First of all, I'd like to say thank you for all your support just by visiting this Dragonica blogfic. Now I'll be straight to the point. There will be a lag of updates now because have finally found a job after many months of searching and Dragonica was my means of entertaining myself through those long days, as well as creating this blogfic out of an orgasm of ideas.

My work now is pretty hardcore like most customer service related professions. I work six days a week, and only get one day off. I intend to grind my arse off during that one day and make the most out of fun.

Don't worry, I'm not shutting down the blog. I'll still be updating when I have the time. I also intend to jump into my shrimpy-sleeping bag and roll around in it to break away work anxiety and stress. xD (Hopefully no one coats me in egg and bread crumbs.)

Once again, I'd like to thank everyone for getting the blog this far. It's only been a month, but wow.

Till the next update,
Prawnt

P.S. Where I'm working? Hmm... it's not much... probably one of the most stressful jobs in the world with phone calls ringing every other minute... (but sometimes, I want to pretend that I am a knight.)


Yeah, imagine me behind that counter. It's hardcore AM I RITE???

And I Thought Fairies Were Friendly...

To My Dearest Ebbie,

After our little stay here at Frigid Canyon, I met up with some of my guildies after I was relieved of my post. They told me they were on the hunt for the Fairy Queen Arca who apparently has a huge bounty on her head. Siren Woods was near Camp Steven, so I was thinking of going to Camp Steven after this Arca hunt. We went deep into the freezing woods, as well as encountering many enemies like a large Yeti and a patrol of fairies. However, there was one fairy we came across that did not attack us, and she appeared to be injured.


The poor fairy told us her story about the fairy queen, Arca. Some evil force has taken over their queen and all her fellow fairies have been driven mad as well. Even their neighbours, the dwarves have also gone mad. She told us to defeat the fairy queen to find out more about what really happened, so my guildies and I went to investigate. This area was beyond my league. the monsters were tough and clever, and my usual tactics wouldn't hit as much as it used to. Fortunately, my guildies were strong enough to cleave through enemy mobs along the way.

It wasn't long until we encountered the Fairy Queen Arca, though I think it may be one of many impostors created by dark magic. There have been many theories about her origin, one was about a dragon's tear that fell from the sky to create her out of a flower, and another theory was that she was a spoiled little girl who wished to become the queen of fairies. Either way, we still had to defeat this fairy.

I couldn't hit Arca at all so I left all the hitting to my guildies. I supported them using my time magic, as well as clearing her reinforcements that spawned. Arca was terribly strong. Yes Ebbie, I'd advise you to be careful even if you've successfully forged your Spine of Lavalon weapon. She can ensnare you in some thorns and attack you with her flower magic from afar. If you're not careful, you might die in a instant. Luckily, with our combined effort, we were able to defeat her, and I was able to deliver the finishing blow, being the heroic knight that I am.

When she lay defeated, she used her last ounce of strength to escape from us. I didn't find anything of value form that battle, but at least I now know how the fairy queen would attack. As I'm writing this letter, I've finally reached Camp Steven, the Expedition's main base of operations near the Drakos tower. You could always purchase a scroll to Camp Steven, but I advise that you travel the traditional way. Walk. It's healthy, and you'll get to meet a lot of interesting things along the way.

Stay safe Ebbie, watch out for the fairies!

From Your Dear Brother,
Prawnt

Icy Beauty

To My Dearest Ebbie,

I got out of trouble earlier than expected. The Expedition was running out of Paladins in the Frigid Canyon area so out of desperation, they dispatched all incarcerated paladins like me to Frigid Canyon to replace the ones that got injured. From what I've heard so far in that area, numerous golem-like figures have started attacking the mining areas there, and the once peaceful fairies and dwarves have also been driven mad by some malevolent force. What we'll be doing would be peacekeeping mostly to keep travel routes safe.

(Burlune attempts to scare us with a pathetic ambush.)

Our base camp is in Ashmist Village, near the Van Cliff citadel. Since I had no business there, I immediately went through a large canopy forest along the way where we encountered the Burlune along the way, a gorilla that has been harassing travelers for quite some time now. We were able to defeat it and we headed for the rendezvouz point at Frigid Canyon.

Two main figures were pointed out at the Frigid Canyon. One was the power source or leader of the crystal golems called Pythanuth, and the fairy queen called Arca. Our sovereign Steven has commanded us to destroy these two when possible. I was assigned as rear guard en route to the rendezvous point but the mist kept getting thicker ad before you know it, I got separated from the rest of the group.

I was left alone. I assumed the other got separated by the mist that suddenly engulfed us as well. I then heard a beautiful sound. It was as if a beautiful soprano was singing her heart out. I turned around and saw this sparkling thing made out of ice. It was so beautiful that I wanted to touch it, but my instincts tell me it might be something dangerous. As the mist started to clear, I saw what it really was. It was a beast called the Fenrir!


It then shifted from a beautiful voice to a ferocious roar as it started to attack me. It was fast, as it blended well with the icy environment. I had a hard time defeating it, as almost all of my hits did not hit at all! Fenrir was tough to beat, but in the end, I reigned supreme! I suddenly felt tired though. It was probably from all that traveling, and the cold environment we had to endure. Fortunately, some of my party members found me and helped me get to the rendezvous point in no time. Warm soup, hot coffee, the works.

I'll only be in this place for a few more days though, as the stronger paladins would return to relieve our posts here and we'd be sent back to our respective areas of assignment. Actually I found this cute little Pinecone that kept following me around camp. It's so fond of us that the camp made it a pet! I don't really own the Pinecone, but really, I didn't know it could eat a whole supply of corn that fast!

Stay safe Ebbie, be careful when traveling!

From Your Dear Brother,
Prawnt

In Trouble...

To My Dearest Ebbie,

Well I got a bit carried away the other night so here I am writing to you in prison under a 1-week suspension from regular duties. What happened the other night you ask? Well, me and Dobby were downing some shots of vodka and tequila at the Wild Cocks Bar in Libra. Actually it was Dobby who took more shots than I did, because according to the report from eyewitnesses, I already got drunk after one shot and began to act differently.

(The evidence.)

Another eyewitness said that I kept proclaiming myself as "Don Pantino, master of panty-snatch" while inside the bar, and then Dobby joined in as we raided all sorts of places hunting panties here and there, oblivious to who they belong to. What do you expect Ebbie? We were both drunk. Dobby then went up to the roof of a house and started imitating a seagull. Eventually we got caught by the authorities and they confiscated all the panties as evidence. Poor Dobby was stripped of his equipment to be sent to the dungeons, while I was sent to another room to be court marshaled.

The big hairy guy who escorted me was really weird. He kept touching my butt A LOT and gave me his house address as well. I don't know what he was trying to get from me but I hated him because he smelled weird. You know that smell when you have your weapon refined at the smithy's? Yeah, it's something like that only ten times worse plus a little bit of manure smell added to top it all off.

I tried my best to plead with Commander Hoffman not to suspend my "hero" activities but rules are rules. I have a one-week suspension from heroics and other missions and as an added punishment, the big hairy guy requested that I spend time with him. This is really creepy. At least they let me keep my sword for that reason but for the next week, I'll be spending it in a small jail cell.

Stay safe Ebbie, and don't get drunk!

From Your Dear Brother,
Prawnt

I Actually Won?

To My Dearest Ebbie,

I'm still speechless my dear sister. You still remember when we were little that I desperately tried to win you that Woodie Plushie at the Odellia Town Fair back then? No matter how many times I played the ring toss, I couldn't get you that plushie you wanted so badly. Or remember the time when we checked who were the winners of the Dragonica Pageant the other night? It was a good thing you were there, otherwise Gatto would've been turned into fried fat cat. Now we had that other event where these vampires and werewolves invade town, and Gatto also held an event for this, yes? This is no joke Ebbie, I actually won that event.
I received news from Dobby one night saying that I was one of ten winners who won the "GM Monster Spawn Screenshot Contest" He kept cursing me saying that his entry should have won, and showed me where my winning entry was posted. I couldn't believe it. Out of hundreds who participated in this monster-whacking event, I was one of the ten winners! I didn't know how to react. I was also not sure what prize I would be getting. Should I treat all my friends to drinks and a tempura smorgasbord? Should I write to you about this? A lot was going through my mind that time as I was left speechless. I've never really won anything before in any contest.

I know, I know, it's just a silly contest. But you have to feel me Ebbie, and it may sound pathetic as well, but I won. I actually won and I feel so happy about it! It's not the prize that matters, but the PRESTIGE you get with it! I feel so big-headed right now I can actually raise my head up high as I do my daily rounds! Being declared a "hero" of a crazy event is a good thing Ebbie. Oh, I almost forgot. The prize I got was a Vampire Costume that I could wear for a month! Now I could continue masquerading as the Vampire Tempura Knight for a longer period of time!


As you could see in my latest picture, I felt proud enough to wear my Sambaba Helm as well! But that ain't the best part. It's not that I won the event, it's not that I get to wear the helm, but finally, I get to wear PANTS for A WHOLE FRIGGIN MONTH! THAT is why I'm so happy!!!

Oh right, I have a copy here of my winning entry for you to look at in case you're wondering what picture I took. I couldn't even think of a name so i just called it "DEATHBLOW!".

And in the end, I finally now know how it feels to win something. I don't care what prize I get if I win. I just want the prestige and honor that comes with winning it! You know how Dad always used to say to go for it! Why do you think Dad holds the most successful shrimp farm in Libra even to this day?

Stay safe Ebbie! Love ya!

From Your Dear Brother,
Prawnt

OOC: I'd like to thank IAH for choosing my entry as one of the winners, and everyone else who has congratulated me. Thank you all! ;D

Strange Events

To The Two Nosy Reporters,

I haven't seen anything interesting from your magazine lately, so I decided to share with you a few tips that you might find interesting. I know, the article about the Dragonica-related diseases raised awareness about it, yet it caused some panic amongst mentally unstable citizens. As you know, a trail of communication from person-to-person could easily be warped if spread by word of mouth. However, you might want to try being a bit more clear with these things next time. The other day, we were sent to dispatch an unruly mob almost overrunning Nurse Mimi's clinic in Libra.

It's not only the people that are becoming unruly, those dreaded sheep in the Windia Plains have also gone mad. The other day, they were able to form an "Angry Herd" and trotted towards town, bleating in a monotonous mantra: "Four legs good, two legs BAAAAAD." Now this line might sound familiar, but perhaps the sheep are really trying to form an uprising. I mean, they were even holding signs saying "NO WOOL AIN'T COOL" or "EAT LAMB? GET WHAMMED!" as they started to attack lowbie adventurers around the area.

We were able to hold off these guys but they swore they'd be back for more. Dun Morgan of Odellia has requested more strong adventurers to help reinforce Odellia if every they strike again. In other events, I was leisurely strolling through Libra the other day, until everyone heard a godlike voice in the sky, with this message:

(Click to enlarge.)

Hey, is Dobby a part of this? I definitely heard his name as everyone heard that announcement. Whatever it was, everyone sudden;y had a force field around them. Commander Evan didn't inform us of any wizards or mages involved in this so is this just a silly prank created by some bored magicians? I'll leave that to public opinion.

I guess that's it for now. And Mizureii, if you're reading this, give me back my pair of black briefs. I know you stole it, my drawer was practically full of the magic dust you warmages use for battle.

With Regards,
Prawnt, The Tempura Knight

Out of Commission

Hey there Prawnt,

Sup buddy? How's it going? Haven't been in touch with you (nor any of our friends for that matter) in ages. Have you been receiving news from them lately?

First off, I'd like to congratulate you on being promoted to the Order of the Paladins. You've certainly come a long way from being that overprotective brother of Ebbie, to being the protector of the people. Hahaha, I still get a good laugh when I remember those times when you would tell me about your goal when I was still your superior, but look at you now, you're achieving your goals already!

Ah the good 'ol days, can't really believe that you have already surpassed my rank that fast... guess all that training and tempura that you eat really isn't for naught, haha. How I wish I could continue my training again, so I may surpass you this time.

You see, I'm still out of commission at the moment. Just a matter of dumb luck. Three weeks ago, a damn hyperjump failed on me during one of my Steven Trading Port missions to fend off Shark Pirates, the blasted thing sent me flying in the air and down the ocean with the speed of light (a slight exaggeration, maybe?). That damn incident left me unconscious for two damn weeks! And right now, I'm still on rehab. >.> Those things are starting to get dangerous, I tell ya.

Should've just stuck to using the Bird Mobile, Garuda, instead. You still remember that, right? You know, the one that's always... parked on top of that model house building in the Port of Winds. Speaking of which, Garuda misses you, you should visit sometime. It's a safer way to travel, and its more GAR than those damn hyperjumps.

Anyway, will be writing to you again soon, when I'm done with rehab. Oh, Kureha dropped by earlier and says hi too. (Damn, she has some damn good assets -cough-) I think she and Milie were going to train along with Leongarde someplace. Not sure about it though.

So yeah, good luck on your adventures, buddy. Will be looking forward to doing missions with ya again. God speed. GAR SALUTE! o/

From your former superior,
Goryu.

P.S. Pardon the rather wobbly handwriting, My hands are still having a tough time after that long unconsciousness period. Heck, can't even wield this Lightning Sword that Zak sent to me properly. Haha.

P.P.S. Will be sending pictures next time. =D

The Doraemon Guild

To My Dearest Ebbie,

Funny story actually, I was somewhere in the Smoldering Swamps until I came across this big crowd. It wasn't a riot or anything, apparently all these people have been duped into thinking that there were some monsters wreaking havoc in the area, and they were dispatched by their respective guild leaders to investigate. Most of them were disappointed, while others just shrugged it off. Many believed that this was just another prank.


After getting out of that mess, I found out that many people were recruiting new guild members back in Libra, thanks to the many people I spotted in that crowd bearing cool emblems. I guess this was the time to look for another guild, as Joker is already doing well with his troupe as we speak. Many of these guilds even had recruitment booths where they handed out fliers and gave their mission-vision statements and other organization-related stuff.

My decision came down to three guilds. There was The Hakuron, The Apostate, and the Doraemons. I received personal invitations from these guilds but I really couldn't decide where to go. After writing a farewell note to Joker, I decided to think it over a basket of freshly-cooked, juicy tempura. Eventually, I went with the decision to go for the Doraemons. They seemed like a fun bunch. They even have their own snazzy headquarters.

I received a warm welcome from them after filling up my registration form. Lucern is a familiar face since he helped me with my Lavalon quest, as well as other people that I have met in the past. This seemed like a fun guild, I thought. I could already expect a lot of adventures with these people I joined up with. As a Tempura Knight, I shall protect them!

I even went out to test this toy hammer they told me to use. It was great. Although a bit light to hold and made of some artificial material, it did a good job slaying one of those pesky Draculs that have been popping about recently.

I guess this guild's trademark character would be all about chatty fun and the sort. So how's your guild Ebbie? Having fun lately?

Stay safe! Miss you!

From Your Dear Brother,
Prawnt

OOC: Many thanks to the people of Doraemon for their warm welcome!

Tights or Manskirts?

To My Dearest Ebbie,

You may know very well that for centuries, and perhaps even eons, us knights and gladiators have always been separated on the position on what should be our standard uniform. Well, armor is an obvious choice, but recently, it got narrowed down to one thing. Tights or manskirts? Allow me to explain. Us knights carry a lot of heavy armor with us, and our legplates are pretty much our only protection underneath. That is why under those legplates, we wear tights to be able to move around freely.

As for gladiators, they are fundamentalists in a sense as they still advocate the manskirt. They find it lighter, and easier to move around in than our bulky tights-legplates combo. Wait Ebbie, I know this is a waste of time telling you this because you're a woman and it doesn't really affect you. However, you must know why us knights and gladiators will always be different in some way.

According to my friend Ceaz, he has been wearing a manskirt ever since he became a rookie gladiator and hasn't gotten used to it ever since. He can't wear boxers like he did as a warrior, so he had to resort to using briefs as underwear instead. For us knights, we almost do the same thing except we use tights under our legplates. Sure, it protects us from the cold, but it could get real nasty once we go into higher temperatures. I wouldn't want to describe the smell as you might be eating something right now.


Now I'm in a dilemma here. I just picked up these Cursed Mercury Legplates that supposedly give a bonus to strength! I don't want to know how THIS would give me strength, but it really is tempting to deviate from my usual paladin armor and try other armor sets as well. Another dilemma is that I still have raging hormones Ebbie. What do I mean by raging hormones? Well, usually when I see someone I like, my little "friend" springs to attention, but it's not noticeable. Imagine if I wore these things when a hot woman came along! I'd better ask Ceaz.

Anyway, that'll be my letter for you for today. Remember that vampire costume I got? It's probably the first thing I've worn into battle that involves the use of PANTS. HOORAY FOR PANTS.

So stay safe Ebbie, and I'll probably get help from my friends regarding this matter. Tell me what you think as well!

From Your Dear Brother,
Prawnt

OOC: Manskirts or Tights? VOTE NOW.

Spooked. (3)

To My Dearest Ebbie,

You might have received a letter from Ceaz regarding what happened recently. I only found out just now that I haven't been sent to the netherworld at all! It's Halloween. The spooky occasion! Why didn't I think of that sooner? Well, at least it's alright now. I found out from some random girl that it wasn't Halloween when I tried to suck her blood using my "fangs" and when I realized that I didn't have any fangs at all!Yeah, I had to admit, what I did was really stupid. What also startled me was that Ceaz and Zak told me I was possessed by the sword and I attacked them! I thought it was a dream that time, but it was actually real. I got this really bad lump on my head courtesy of Irichi's "treatment" and I had to put some ice or frost under my helm to help heal it. I also realized that many of us paladins were on holiday leave, so I requested a leave as well!

I went trick or treating with Ceaz and the guys, and we were dressed up in all sorts of costumes, and Zak wore a vampire costume as well. Zak wore this weird wig that made his hair look short and slick. It made me wonder how he could even get all of his long black hair underneath such a thing. We made some poses and came up with some great ones!

We also encountered some weird guys called Pumpkin Cafe' Waiters that drop candies when you beat 'em. I know, I could've just gone from house to house to ask for some candy, but what's more fun than beating up monsters and taking away the candy they have? It tastes great, and it also makes you strong. We thought these were just some troublemakers in costumes at first, but it turns out they really ARE servants of Dracul.

Have you tried wearing various costumes? Personally I enjoy these vampire and werewolf costumes I found. Ceaz and Zak hate my werewolf costume though. They said I almost turned into one when I was possessed by the sword.

Feels weird walking around in it, but it was alright. I enjoyed the whole trick or treating thing.

Stay safe, and Happy Halloween!

From Your Dear Brother,
Prawnt

Spooked. (2)

Dear Ebbie,

Hi there, this is Ceaz. You may know that your dear brother has been writing strange messages to you recently. Allow me to explain why. I was actually with him on the way to Libra until he drank too much iced tea and fainted. (I know right? Who else gets drunk from iced tea?) By the time we got to Odellia by accident, he now keeps thinking he has died and has been sent to the netherworld, where in reality, it's actually just Halloween decorations and festivities.

Now many new monsters have been causing trouble this time, but Prawnt has decided to "guide our souls back to heaven" and we went along with it. Why did we do it? Zak thought it was fun to mess with Prawnt once in a while. It was also kind of embarrassing being with Prawnt as he was warding off costumed adventurers trick or treating here and there, thinking they were really evil spirits! Well, you think that's weird? Here comes the interesting part.

You may have seen those monsters called Draculs such as this illustration. We all know that if you get bitten by one, you turn into a vampire yourself. Well, as Prawnt was fighting one of these things, he got bitten after he defeated it, and Prawnt suddenly went hysterical. It was as if he was the Count of Van Cliff when he got bitten, and he found this vampire costume, wore it, and proclaimed himself under a new identity. The Vampire Knight.


Ever since then, he has been claiming that he sparkles in the daylight, can seduce any woman he meets, and he suddenly had a craving for eating forest creatures. Yeah, your brother was really effed up that time so Zak and I decided to break the joke to him and tell him it's Halloween. We did tell him but he wouldn't believe us, and he really DOES believe he's been turned into a vampire, and he set out to kill a Dracul for revenge. Zak and I ran after him to make sure he doesn't do anything stupid.

All he said as he ran was, "THE SWORD COMMANDS ME!!!". It must have something to do with that sword, or he probably inhaled a lot of opium again. So off we went to run after Prawnt, until we found him in the swamps, defeating another Dracul he found.


Is it in the tempura he eats or is he just plain crazy? When we finally caught up to him, all he kept doing was laughing and laughing in a boisterous manner, proclaiming himself as Count Tempura, The Vampire Knight. He also started to talk in this strange accent that even we couldn't understand much. Zak was also starting to lose patience and tried to snap him out of it by punching him in the face. But it didn't hurt Prawnt one bit and he just laughed it off. (Knights ARE tough.)

When we got back to Libra, we met Irichi and the girls, and by this time, Prawnt still thinks he's a real vampire and tried to seduce Irichi. Well, all he got was a massive katar slam in the nuts and that knocked him out for... I think a few hours. Still, it didn't work and he's still under the illusion that he's a vampire... WITH A BODY OF A WEREWOLF UNDERNEATH.


At first I thought he just found half a werewolf costume and wore it, but when we saw his sword glow in an eerie manner, and Irichi claimed they didn't do anything to him recently, maybe he really IS turning into a werewolf because of the sword!!! (Another sign was that his eyes weren't in their usual perverted tone.) The sword was probably messing with his perception of reality, so Zak and I had to stop him. It was an ugly sight, as your brother was hairy all over and technically naked because of the fur.

We fought him as if he were in a trance, Zak told me to concentrate on getting that sword out of his hand. He was tough to beat actually, until Cailey finally came and placed some sort of seal to exorcise the evil spirit out of Prawnt. Prawnt (or the spirit rather) just laughed and told us, "THIS BODY IS OURS. WE WILL DO AS WE PLEASE WITH IT." Suddenly Irichi comes bursting into the room shrieking. She then said something along the lines of, "NO ONE DOMINATES UKE-SAMA BUT ME!!!".

Then the evil spirit replied.

"SILENCE MAN-WOMAN HYBRID."





...







We were startled by what she did to the possessed Prawnt. In a fit of rage, she raised her katar, and using the blunt end, she slammed Prawnt all the way down to the first floor of the inn. What's scary was, we were on the fourth floor that time. As soon as we got down to the first floor, the sword was no longer in Prawnt's hand and it stopped glowing. Zak examined the sword and said the spirit has been exorcised from it. We were all relieved as we saw Prawnt slowly returning to normal. Well, normal as in his usual normal self. We all know how peculiar your brother is, Ebbie.

We were all quite relieved as Prawnt got up and only complained of a severe headache and a few bruises as Cailey went to treat him. Amazingly, he got up and said he was ready to go adventuring again. Well, it really wasn't pleasant on the eyes as he was naked. In the lobby. In front of lots of people. Frustrated, Zak threw him a pair of pants.

So how is Prawnt now? Well he still thinks he's in the netherworld and has been turned into a vampire. So he still goes around town proclaiming to be the Vampire Knight, Hero of the Night or something like that in a helm and vampire costume. He still uses the sword that he was possessed with. Don't worry, Zak said there would be no chance of any evil spirit possessing that sword again. He still won't believe us that it's Halloween and that he's not in the netherworld.

Till then, he'll write to you soon he said.

With regards,
Ceaz

Spooked.

To My Dearest Ebbie,

After my adventures in Faeras I decided to go back to Libra for a well deserved rest. However, on the ferry headed towards home, I suddenly fell asleep. And when I got up, I ended up in Odellia somehow but something was different. Pumpkins were everywhere, everything was dark and spooky, bats kept flying around, and there were so many decorations and candies around town. From that point on, I concluded one thing Ebbie, I was dead. THIS MUST BE THE NETHERWORLD.

(Click image to enlarge.)

I was frightened the time I landed in Odellia. I didn't know what to do, where to go, and more importantly, I didn't even know if I was going to see you again. Now this small blue bat kept following me everywhere I went, and even my sword was different. Now could this be related to that ghost I helped in town the other time? All I could remember was...

(Click image to enlarge.)

Yeah, I guess that's all I could remember. Then I remember seeing Zakriid and Ceaz, and concluded those were their lost souls, and I volunteered to guide them out of the netherworld. So I told both of them to jump into the magma near netherworld Libra and they both knocked me on the head, and I couldn't remember a thing after that. I knew I should have worn my helm that time!

There were also many werewolves and vampires outside of town. As a hero of justice and the bane of all malice, I attacked them without hesitation. I laugh in their faces as they lay defeated.

Now I'm still not sure what is up with all these weird decorations around the netherworld. I'll write to you again as soon as I sort this out. This sword I got is weird... it keeps trying to tell me something in a weird language.

Stay safe! Hope this letter reaches you.

From Your Dear Brother,
Prawnt

BECAUSE WE ARE MEN!

To My Dearest Ebbie,

Now as I am writing this to you, I just got back from a mission to halt the logging operations controlled by the lumberjack foreman Karlberg in the Great Forest. Of all the enemies I have ever face, I must tell you that Karlberg is probably the most cowardly of evil-doers I have ever encountered.

I was with a group of adventurers when the rest of my team were isolated and I was left to face Karlberg alone. He suddenly caught us off guard as I went forward to scout the area only to become isolated. I know Ebbie, it was a headstrong move, but you know how stubborn I am sometimes when my blood gets hot and pumping for action. Karlberg came swooping down with his machine and several lackeys joined in the brawl as well.

If you've seen how Karlberg fights, you know what I'm talking about. He rides this weird contraption that he probably uses for logging, and uses it to attack anyone who would dare trespass in his logging operations. WHAT A COWARD. Unlike other monsters and enemies you fight, Karlberg doesn't face you man-to-man with a weapon. He rides this sissy machine thingy that isn't as fair in a fight itself! What a cheat.

After a few passes, I finally defeated Karlberg and destroyed his contraption. There he was Ebbie, laying down on the ground, lamenting on why I was able to defeat him and his machine. I immediately gave a short, heroic speech in these exact words: "THAT IS BECAUSE YOU DO NOT FIGHT WITH HONOR! A REAL BATTLE IS ONE THAT IS FOUGHT WITH DETERMINATION! GUTS! AND CALLING OUT YOUR ATTACKS!" As he was carried by two paladins to be jailed, he asked me again why we Dragonicans fight.

I replied, "WE FIGHT... BECAUSE... WE ARE MEEEEENNNNNNNNN!!!" Then a female paladin whacked me on the head with her sword.

It was a great day Ebbie! We were able to bring this evildoer... TO JUSTICE.

Stay safe Ebbie, AND FIGHT LIKE A MAN.

From Your Dear Brother,
Prawnt

Of Shrooms and Fungoids

To My Dearest Ebbie,

It is good to hear that you are back in your cheerful state again. I'm really happy for you, however please stop being curious on what yaoi is. It is an evil thought that Irichi and the girls want to corrupt you with. Probably more evil than Elga's corruption! Haha! Anyway, you have been to the Fungoid Village, right? It's this beautiful village in the middle of Faeras inhabited by the Fungoids, a peaceful race of mushroom folk.

I was taking a break from engaging Kentar patrols and I found time to chat with Fungoid Elder, Masiroon who told me something of interest. I'm sure you've encountered those annoying creatures called Shrooms right? Shroom Thieves, Shroom Soldiers, they're all over the damp Candescent Caverns, as well as areas around Faeras.

The Shrooms and Fungoids used to work together side by side a long time ago. Fungoids were well-known for creating and building various tools to make work more efficient, and they are well-versed in the sciences of business and technology. The Shrooms on the other hand focused on sheer military force, and many Shrooms devoted themselves into perfecting the art of warfare. The Shrooms and Fungoids lived in peace, with the Shrooms hunting monsters for food, as well as keeping the peace in their city as a security force, and the Fungoids maintaining homes and creating all sorts of productive industries.

However, on one dark night, the Shrooms have suddenly gone berserk. This also happened at the same time when Paris was on her way to free Elga. Much of the Fungoid-Shroom city was destroyed and what's left of it is the Fungoid Village you see today. Unlike their counterparts, the Shrooms hate sunlight so most of them have retreated into dark place like caves, or into the foggy reaches of the forest where no light could penetrate.

If you venture past the Tutu Tree Forest, you would find the remains of their once beautiful city, an Abandoned Mushroom Factory, and a former housing estate now known as the Sleepy Slums. You could take a look, but many monsters live there now, as well as Mimir Tribesmen who patrol the area. You could also find Shrooms in the Forgotten Forest, as that place is rather foggy and damp, a perfect place for a Shroom to live in. The Fungoids have tried to figure out what caused their Shroom brothers to go berserk, but sadly, their mages have failed so far in their research.

They have also started to cooperate with the Mimir Tribe in halting the Dragon Expedition's supply lines. Commander Evan has instructed us to be vigilant as those supply lines are key to keeping Camp Steven intact.

Another interesting piece of info! You've probably encountered Myrdal in the Candescent Caverns right? He's actually a Fungoid gone mad and joined the Shrooms. What made him go berserk is still a mystery.

Stay safe Ebbie, watch out for those Mimir poison darts!

From Your Dear Brother,
Prawnt

Krazy Kentars

To My Dearest Ebbie,

Now let's put all of those things behind us alright? Surely you could sort this out yourself. I know you can. There are some issues that even I, your brother cannot interfere with. Now be a good girl and smile, alright? Now that we've put that behind us, let me tell you about that little encounter I had the other day. Now somewhere past the swamp, and somewhere near where the Fungoid Village is located, there's an area in between that called the Gods' Sanctuaries.

I've heard this was an area where sacrifices were made to the Ancient Golem, Aram of the Kundara Dungeon. Many similar golems could be seen in the fields, awaiting worshipers. Recently, they are being controlled by Paris to collect people's souls. According to one adventurer I've met, he said all those who have given up hope can sell their soul to Elga to fulfill their desires. Selling your soul (and not equipment souls) is just not right at all. Us Dragonians were given a soul in order for us to forge our own destinies, and not wait for it.

I went there to explore the area and found out majority of the Kentar Tribe have sold their souls and have pledged allegiance to Elga. The Kentars used to be a friendly bunch but somehow, their warchief, Karous has made a fateful decision for all the Kentar tribes. A few Rebel Kentars have fled like Pyrei, and they are currently helping us fight off the Kentars that threaten nearby Fungoid Village.

While exploring the area, I engaged a few Kentar patrols here and there until I found this strong Kentar named Proxima. From what I've heard, he was also a warchief like Karous, but was shunned by his fellow Kentars for different views. He was the first to sell his soul to Elga, and would soon be corrupted wholly, as he has glowing eyes and everything. A traveler told me he used to be a kind Kentar warchief.

I had to admit, Proxima is just another victim of Elga, twisted into this horrible monstrosity. However, it is my duty to rid the land of corrupted things, so I just had to put Proxima out of his misery by slaying him. His glowing eyes almost intimidated me for a second, but I maintained my composure as I faced this corrupt Kentar. He was certainly agile, as he kept galloping around trying to skewer me with his lance. All it took was Impervion, and a Broom Jab here and there. My hammer stuns him as well!

When I finally defeated him, his corpse disappeared and I saw souls coming out of it, wailing. This just proves that anything that was as pure-hearted as Proxima before could be corrupted into something so vile.

Now stay safe, I've heard Shrooms are catching up to the Fungoids near their village.

From Your Dear Brother,
Prawnt