Chapter 35
If audio player doesn't work, press Stop then Play button again
QJ waited for Robin to bring out her own mount, but instead, she put a foot in his stirrup and eased herself in front of him. "Need me to pick you up a horse Robs?"
Robin shook her head and leaned back against him. "Not really. Is this inconvenient?"
QJ laughed in her ear and pushed Scorch into an easy canter. "That's not the word I would use."
The ride took only a few minutes, QJ was stunned by all the changes that had occurred at Briar Rose in the last day. There were wooden scaffoldings against every outside wall, most of the siding had been removed. As QJ entered the gate. he could see that the entire stone wall surrounding the property has been torn down so that it could be rebuilt. The landscaping on the grounds had been cleaned up and removed, potted plants and trees of all kinds were stacked everywhere. Someone was even pulling up the cobblestones and painting them.
"Wow...they are really working hard." QJ dismounted and then helped Robin down. She didn't say anything about the property, but her small smile told him that she was impressed.
Aji walked out of the house as he was dismounting. "Good Afternoon sir!"
"Hi, Aji." He pulled Robin along by her hand. "This is Robin, she's the Commandant at the One Problem Keep."
Aji smiled at Robin and bowed her head slightly. "I know who she is of course. Who doesn't know the Songbirds? Very nice to meet you."
"Nice to meet you also." Robin looked at her curiously. She was quite attractive but seemed very non-threatening for a dark elf.
"Let go into the old workshop." QJ led the way into the house, the stairways was in the process of being rebuilt. "Did Serli send more workers?"
Aji nodded, "we didn't realize the scope of this project originally, so we underestimated everything."
QJ laughed at the embarrassed look on her face, "No surprise there. How could you? No one knew that this place was falling down."
He walked into the workshop and closed the door. It was completely empty, except for some empty shelves and a weapon rack. "I picked up a spear and three books for you to read. The books are mine, but you can keep them here. The spear is for you."
Razor
Spear: Unique
Description: Perfectly
balanced with moderate length
and diamond cut blade.
+10 Strength + 10 Agility
He placed the books on the shelf. The first two books covered basic and intermediate Ninjutsu Staff techniques. The third he had picked up at the weapon store in Maelstrom, The 12 forms of Spear Defense.
Aji accepted the spear, looking at it like it was a pile of gold. "Thank you QJ."
"I'm not a spear fighter and I've only average staff fighting skills, however, come to me with any questions you have. There are lots of pictures and diagrams in the Ninjutsu books that are quite helpful."
"I'll work hard every day." Aji glanced at Robin, "any tips?"
Robin nodded, "while practicing, wear your armor. You want to simulate combat situations as closely as possible."
"I'm going to put in on now then." Aji smiled when QJ turned around. She quickly donned the black armor from the Vampire raid.
Robin couldn't stop the smile from forming on her lips. "Oh my... now that is what I call armor." She was blushing slightly, "feel free to get me something like this."
QJ couldn't find proper words, he only nodded and tried not to stare. "This is also for you." He handed her a basic handgun that he had rebuilt earlier along with a holster.
Pistol: Revolver [Silenced]
Fine Grade
+5 Range, + 10 Accuracy
Crafted by the gunsmith QJ
"See the black wall? That's been bulletproofed. Not a bad idea for a gunsmith shop actually. Set up a target and practice shooting every day also."
Robin nodded in agreement. "Want me to have some craftsmen bulletproof a wall at your workshop?"
"Sure, that sounds great. Hey, let Robin see your stats Aji."
Aji Sai
Level 25
NPC Class: Unknown
Strength 35
Endurance 29
Intelligence 38
Agility 33
Luck 5
Charisma 28
Skills
Tailor 100
Scholar 100
Spear 9
Robin didn't bother to hide her surprise. "No fighting class? Where are your weapon skills?"
Qj shook his head in disgust. "Her father was Kimo Sai. She wasn't allowed to train fighting skills. Aji picked up the spear skill during the raid."
Robin's face showed a hint of anger. "A child is innocent of their parent's crimes!"
Aji belted on the holster. "Not everyone is so enlightened."
"I'll help you Aj. I'm a knife fighter of course but I can teach you many things." Robin nodded to herself, "to pick up the spear skill in a few hours means you have potential."
"Thanks Robs. That's actually a great idea." Robin knew all about movement and countering. QJ handed Aji an envelope, "read this carefully and follow the directions. If you have issues procuring the items we need, contact Ezra Charles in Laredo."
*********
They said their goodbyes and a few minutes later walked into the Songbird. It was busy, Ren and Lark were onstage while Lara was serving. Oddly enough, Quinn was working behind the bar.
None of them missed the fact that QJ and Robin were holding hands when they walked in.
Quinn grinned when his son sat at the bar. He poured him a beer without asking and slid it in front of him. "You look pretty today Robin, something different with your hair?"
Robin laughed and patted her hair, "I was riding, so it's probably from that."
A few minutes after they sat down, Ren and Lark wrapped up things on stage and joined them. QJ decided to give his dad a hand and made burgers for the Songbirds. Thrush popped her head into the kitchen just as he was finishing up. "Two more QJ."
QJ handed her a plate, "take these for now and I'll make two more."
By the time he finished the last two, Robin was nestled nicely between Thrush and Wren, they were obviously teasing her. Robin's face beamed while they teased her, they were her two best friends.
"Saved you a place QJ." Ren patted the seat next to hers, he sat down and started eating. He could feel the eyes of the table on him.
Wren leaned forward, her blonde hair braided neatly. "So... going to give Robin back to us soon?"
QJ didn't bother to look up, he just shook his head. "No."
Her voice was filled with amusement as she continued teasing, "Robin says you are making her a hide-out gun. Will you make me one too?"
QJ shook his head. "No."
"That's no fair QJ. What does she have that I don't have?" Wren smiled sexily, her blue eyes trying to tempt him.
QJ finally looked up, he thought about it for a moment. "Not saying."
The entire table laughed at his reply. Robin stared at him, her dark eyes unreadable. "He's working hard, creating something good."
"Ignore them QJ." Ren slid an arm through his. "I hear you're a Viscount now, that's amazing!"
"Yep... and Vice-Commander of the Guild." QJ wolfed down his food while keeping an eye on the time. "Damn, I have to get back."
Robin gave him a small smile. "Cya QJ."
QJ returned her smile, "Cya Robs."
He quickly grabbed his plate and walked behind the bar with it. After putting it in the sink he waved to the table and headed out.
The afternoon went by quickly. After checking in with Rachel Brenner, QJ spent the remainder of the day working on his Captured strategies. He beat Nina three times in a row and tied Ringo one to one. One Problem had decided to group up early, so QJ enjoyed a quick dinner with his parents before logging in early.
***********
Welcome to Guns and Gore the Phoenix Server.
One Problem Guild Keep 5 PM, Current Server population 29,120. Your current level is 29.
QJ walked into Keep Hall, none of his guildmates were around yet. He opened up his hud, a moment later a black panther with sky blue eyes stared back at him. QJ laughed, "very funny Belle."
Belle squeezed into view, her eyes were dark blue, signifying that she was using vision transfer with Mali. She wore her dark blonde hair on top of her head in a messy bun, her face was serenely beautiful. "I thought you no longer spoke to me QJ."
QJ shook his head. "Actually I no longer speak to Ru, but that really doesn't work out since she's always at the Academy now."
Belle's face was slightly flushed, "I'm afraid I don't handle alcohol very well."
QJ nodded in agreement. "Me either, honestly I don't remember much about the evening. I do have one question though."
"I... I'm very glad you contacted me. What's your question?"
The rumor was that the Silverleaf women had plied QJ with wine, as rumors go is was completely inaccurate. QJ had swiped a keg of Leah and Em's brandy late at night. Em had thought that halflings were helping themselves, so she had given chase. This led QJ to flee right into the Silverleaf tent in an effort to hide. They ended up drinking the keg dry.
"It was dark and my head was hazy," QJ admitted. Was it you or Ru?"
"Me... Ru was already passed out. You and I were the only ones still awake." Belle felt her face heat up, "you aren't going to ignore me for two more years now are you?"
QJ shook his head. "No, of course not. I need your help actually."
Even though Belle had been blind since birth, she was still capable of many things. "Yes..."
QJ sighed heavily, he felt guilt seeping into him. He had forgotten how sweet Belle could be. "Don't agree before I tell you the specifics."
Belle nodded, "fine. Tell me."
"I need you and a dozen of your sisters. They have to be competent fighters, no rangers though, melee only."
Belle listened intently, "casters okay?"
QJ thought about it for a moment and then nodded. "Quick learners preferred, this is long term Belle. Special training and undercover work. You will all be under contract."
Belle pretty face showed her interest. "Can I say yes now?"
QJ grinned. "Yes."
She caressed Mali's ears, causing the big cat to purr loudly. "I accept. When and where?"
"GnG of course, my estate is called Briar Rose. It's very close to Maelstrom. The sooner the better, since some special training will be involved."
Belle nodded, "give me two days. I'll contact you if I need more time."
"Sounds great. Thanks, Belle." QJ closed comm just as Ringo and Lotte ported into the Keep.
Sato and Breeze arrived a moment later.
Sato's face lit up when he spotted QJ. "Where we heading?"
"South to the Magna Forest." QJ walked out of the Keep and immediately summoned Scorch.
"That's where we ran with Lilly." Ringo smiled at the memory, her and QJ had rode for nearly a day trying to flee Morbin's men.
QJ brought up his hud and showed them on the map. "There is a whole colony of 30 level elite Sassara living there."
Lotte shuddered, "those giant Snake thingies?"
"Yes," QJ admitted. They drop high-value leather, lots of credits and give a ton of xp."
Breeze looked around, "crap... no heals?"
Ringo shook her head. "Leeta has some personal offline stuff going on and Dessi is with her guild."
QJ shrugged, "it's fine. We'll have to make due."
Breeze stared at him as he raced off. "Sure, you aren't the tank."
An hour riding due south brought them to the edge of the Magna forest. The forest was saturated with thick timbers, ten feet in diameter and hundreds of feet in height. The canopy created by the giant trees blocked out most of the sunlight and created a nice cool environment.
Lotte turned toward QJ who was riding beside her. "This is beautiful, does the Keep own some of this."
"We didn't at first, but since we've been upgraded to level two, we own a sizable chunk of it." QJ and Ringo had gone over the differences with Robin.
Ringo, who was riding behind them spoke up. "Tonight the Keep with be emptied out at 10 PM server time. It will undergo massive changes. The walls and courtyard area will increase in size. The Keep itself will add an additional floor."
Lotte glanced over her shoulder, "Chainy told me that on the Legends server the guilds all had to build their own Keeps and that only the top two or three guilds have been upgraded to level 2."
Breeze whistled from behind them, she was bringing up the rear with Sato. "I hope our instances don't disappear, I haven't had a chance to check out 'Lover's Embrace yet'."
QJ didn't comment, although he really wanted to. He brought his map up and slowed his horse down to a walk. "We'll have to go in the rest of the way on foot. Straight west about one mile."
They dismounted and stowed their horses. QJ led the way off of the worn trail toward the colony. It was mostly flat, although you couldn't see your feet when you walked. The ground was covered with several inches of thick moss that made it seem like you were plodding through snow. To make matters worse, waist-high ferns were too dense to even see the ground.
"Glad you are going first QJ, who knows what we'll step in." Breeze's voice called to him from the back.
After a few minutes they exited into a large meadow, that stretched for several hundred yards. There were large mounds of red dirt popping out of the knee high grass.
"Um... The dirt mounds?" Lotte started counting them. "I count nine smaller ones and three medium sized."
Ringo nodded, "if we clear the three mid-sized, we'll gain access to the largest one. It's underground."
"Do some scouting Sato, we'll probably start on the nearest mound." QJ checked his guns while Sato stealthed and disappeared.
Breeze stood there silently, her long hair loose and blowing in the slight wind. "How we taking down elites without a healer?"
QJ took a long steel spike out of his inventory and started pounding it into the ground with a sixteen-pound hammer. "We are going to set a trap. Breeze will keep it taunted but stay out of range. The rest of us are range dps anyway. He took out a separate rope and secured it to the spike."
Lotte watched him carefully, "why not use your lasso?"
QJ grinned at her, "then I won't be able to use it to pull."
Please report us if you find any errors so we can fix it asap!
QJ waited for Robin to bring out her own mount, but instead, she put a foot in his stirrup and eased herself in front of him. "Need me to pick you up a horse Robs?"
Robin shook her head and leaned back against him. "Not really. Is this inconvenient?"
QJ laughed in her ear and pushed Scorch into an easy canter. "That's not the word I would use."
The ride took only a few minutes, QJ was stunned by all the changes that had occurred at Briar Rose in the last day. There were wooden scaffoldings against every outside wall, most of the siding had been removed. As QJ entered the gate. he could see that the entire stone wall surrounding the property has been torn down so that it could be rebuilt. The landscaping on the grounds had been cleaned up and removed, potted plants and trees of all kinds were stacked everywhere. Someone was even pulling up the cobblestones and painting them.
"Wow...they are really working hard." QJ dismounted and then helped Robin down. She didn't say anything about the property, but her small smile told him that she was impressed.
Aji walked out of the house as he was dismounting. "Good Afternoon sir!"
"Hi, Aji." He pulled Robin along by her hand. "This is Robin, she's the Commandant at the One Problem Keep."
Aji smiled at Robin and bowed her head slightly. "I know who she is of course. Who doesn't know the Songbirds? Very nice to meet you."
"Nice to meet you also." Robin looked at her curiously. She was quite attractive but seemed very non-threatening for a dark elf.
"Let go into the old workshop." QJ led the way into the house, the stairways was in the process of being rebuilt. "Did Serli send more workers?"
Aji nodded, "we didn't realize the scope of this project originally, so we underestimated everything."
QJ laughed at the embarrassed look on her face, "No surprise there. How could you? No one knew that this place was falling down."
He walked into the workshop and closed the door. It was completely empty, except for some empty shelves and a weapon rack. "I picked up a spear and three books for you to read. The books are mine, but you can keep them here. The spear is for you."
Razor
Spear: Unique
Description: Perfectly
balanced with moderate length
and diamond cut blade.
+10 Strength + 10 Agility
He placed the books on the shelf. The first two books covered basic and intermediate Ninjutsu Staff techniques. The third he had picked up at the weapon store in Maelstrom, The 12 forms of Spear Defense.
Aji accepted the spear, looking at it like it was a pile of gold. "Thank you QJ."
"I'm not a spear fighter and I've only average staff fighting skills, however, come to me with any questions you have. There are lots of pictures and diagrams in the Ninjutsu books that are quite helpful."
"I'll work hard every day." Aji glanced at Robin, "any tips?"
Robin nodded, "while practicing, wear your armor. You want to simulate combat situations as closely as possible."
"I'm going to put in on now then." Aji smiled when QJ turned around. She quickly donned the black armor from the Vampire raid.
Robin couldn't stop the smile from forming on her lips. "Oh my... now that is what I call armor." She was blushing slightly, "feel free to get me something like this."
QJ couldn't find proper words, he only nodded and tried not to stare. "This is also for you." He handed her a basic handgun that he had rebuilt earlier along with a holster.
Pistol: Revolver [Silenced]
Fine Grade
+5 Range, + 10 Accuracy
Crafted by the gunsmith QJ
"See the black wall? That's been bulletproofed. Not a bad idea for a gunsmith shop actually. Set up a target and practice shooting every day also."
Robin nodded in agreement. "Want me to have some craftsmen bulletproof a wall at your workshop?"
"Sure, that sounds great. Hey, let Robin see your stats Aji."
Aji Sai
Level 25
NPC Class: Unknown
Strength 35
Endurance 29
Intelligence 38
Agility 33
Luck 5
Charisma 28
Skills
Tailor 100
Scholar 100
Spear 9
Robin didn't bother to hide her surprise. "No fighting class? Where are your weapon skills?"
Qj shook his head in disgust. "Her father was Kimo Sai. She wasn't allowed to train fighting skills. Aji picked up the spear skill during the raid."
Robin's face showed a hint of anger. "A child is innocent of their parent's crimes!"
Aji belted on the holster. "Not everyone is so enlightened."
"I'll help you Aj. I'm a knife fighter of course but I can teach you many things." Robin nodded to herself, "to pick up the spear skill in a few hours means you have potential."
"Thanks Robs. That's actually a great idea." Robin knew all about movement and countering. QJ handed Aji an envelope, "read this carefully and follow the directions. If you have issues procuring the items we need, contact Ezra Charles in Laredo."
*********
They said their goodbyes and a few minutes later walked into the Songbird. It was busy, Ren and Lark were onstage while Lara was serving. Oddly enough, Quinn was working behind the bar.
None of them missed the fact that QJ and Robin were holding hands when they walked in.
Quinn grinned when his son sat at the bar. He poured him a beer without asking and slid it in front of him. "You look pretty today Robin, something different with your hair?"
Robin laughed and patted her hair, "I was riding, so it's probably from that."
A few minutes after they sat down, Ren and Lark wrapped up things on stage and joined them. QJ decided to give his dad a hand and made burgers for the Songbirds. Thrush popped her head into the kitchen just as he was finishing up. "Two more QJ."
QJ handed her a plate, "take these for now and I'll make two more."
By the time he finished the last two, Robin was nestled nicely between Thrush and Wren, they were obviously teasing her. Robin's face beamed while they teased her, they were her two best friends.
"Saved you a place QJ." Ren patted the seat next to hers, he sat down and started eating. He could feel the eyes of the table on him.
Wren leaned forward, her blonde hair braided neatly. "So... going to give Robin back to us soon?"
QJ didn't bother to look up, he just shook his head. "No."
Her voice was filled with amusement as she continued teasing, "Robin says you are making her a hide-out gun. Will you make me one too?"
QJ shook his head. "No."
"That's no fair QJ. What does she have that I don't have?" Wren smiled sexily, her blue eyes trying to tempt him.
QJ finally looked up, he thought about it for a moment. "Not saying."
The entire table laughed at his reply. Robin stared at him, her dark eyes unreadable. "He's working hard, creating something good."
"Ignore them QJ." Ren slid an arm through his. "I hear you're a Viscount now, that's amazing!"
"Yep... and Vice-Commander of the Guild." QJ wolfed down his food while keeping an eye on the time. "Damn, I have to get back."
Robin gave him a small smile. "Cya QJ."
QJ returned her smile, "Cya Robs."
He quickly grabbed his plate and walked behind the bar with it. After putting it in the sink he waved to the table and headed out.
The afternoon went by quickly. After checking in with Rachel Brenner, QJ spent the remainder of the day working on his Captured strategies. He beat Nina three times in a row and tied Ringo one to one. One Problem had decided to group up early, so QJ enjoyed a quick dinner with his parents before logging in early.
***********
Welcome to Guns and Gore the Phoenix Server.
One Problem Guild Keep 5 PM, Current Server population 29,120. Your current level is 29.
QJ walked into Keep Hall, none of his guildmates were around yet. He opened up his hud, a moment later a black panther with sky blue eyes stared back at him. QJ laughed, "very funny Belle."
Belle squeezed into view, her eyes were dark blue, signifying that she was using vision transfer with Mali. She wore her dark blonde hair on top of her head in a messy bun, her face was serenely beautiful. "I thought you no longer spoke to me QJ."
QJ shook his head. "Actually I no longer speak to Ru, but that really doesn't work out since she's always at the Academy now."
Belle's face was slightly flushed, "I'm afraid I don't handle alcohol very well."
QJ nodded in agreement. "Me either, honestly I don't remember much about the evening. I do have one question though."
"I... I'm very glad you contacted me. What's your question?"
The rumor was that the Silverleaf women had plied QJ with wine, as rumors go is was completely inaccurate. QJ had swiped a keg of Leah and Em's brandy late at night. Em had thought that halflings were helping themselves, so she had given chase. This led QJ to flee right into the Silverleaf tent in an effort to hide. They ended up drinking the keg dry.
"It was dark and my head was hazy," QJ admitted. Was it you or Ru?"
"Me... Ru was already passed out. You and I were the only ones still awake." Belle felt her face heat up, "you aren't going to ignore me for two more years now are you?"
QJ shook his head. "No, of course not. I need your help actually."
Even though Belle had been blind since birth, she was still capable of many things. "Yes..."
QJ sighed heavily, he felt guilt seeping into him. He had forgotten how sweet Belle could be. "Don't agree before I tell you the specifics."
Belle nodded, "fine. Tell me."
"I need you and a dozen of your sisters. They have to be competent fighters, no rangers though, melee only."
Belle listened intently, "casters okay?"
QJ thought about it for a moment and then nodded. "Quick learners preferred, this is long term Belle. Special training and undercover work. You will all be under contract."
Belle pretty face showed her interest. "Can I say yes now?"
QJ grinned. "Yes."
She caressed Mali's ears, causing the big cat to purr loudly. "I accept. When and where?"
"GnG of course, my estate is called Briar Rose. It's very close to Maelstrom. The sooner the better, since some special training will be involved."
Belle nodded, "give me two days. I'll contact you if I need more time."
"Sounds great. Thanks, Belle." QJ closed comm just as Ringo and Lotte ported into the Keep.
Sato and Breeze arrived a moment later.
Sato's face lit up when he spotted QJ. "Where we heading?"
"South to the Magna Forest." QJ walked out of the Keep and immediately summoned Scorch.
"That's where we ran with Lilly." Ringo smiled at the memory, her and QJ had rode for nearly a day trying to flee Morbin's men.
QJ brought up his hud and showed them on the map. "There is a whole colony of 30 level elite Sassara living there."
Lotte shuddered, "those giant Snake thingies?"
"Yes," QJ admitted. They drop high-value leather, lots of credits and give a ton of xp."
Breeze looked around, "crap... no heals?"
Ringo shook her head. "Leeta has some personal offline stuff going on and Dessi is with her guild."
QJ shrugged, "it's fine. We'll have to make due."
Breeze stared at him as he raced off. "Sure, you aren't the tank."
An hour riding due south brought them to the edge of the Magna forest. The forest was saturated with thick timbers, ten feet in diameter and hundreds of feet in height. The canopy created by the giant trees blocked out most of the sunlight and created a nice cool environment.
Lotte turned toward QJ who was riding beside her. "This is beautiful, does the Keep own some of this."
"We didn't at first, but since we've been upgraded to level two, we own a sizable chunk of it." QJ and Ringo had gone over the differences with Robin.
Ringo, who was riding behind them spoke up. "Tonight the Keep with be emptied out at 10 PM server time. It will undergo massive changes. The walls and courtyard area will increase in size. The Keep itself will add an additional floor."
Lotte glanced over her shoulder, "Chainy told me that on the Legends server the guilds all had to build their own Keeps and that only the top two or three guilds have been upgraded to level 2."
Breeze whistled from behind them, she was bringing up the rear with Sato. "I hope our instances don't disappear, I haven't had a chance to check out 'Lover's Embrace yet'."
QJ didn't comment, although he really wanted to. He brought his map up and slowed his horse down to a walk. "We'll have to go in the rest of the way on foot. Straight west about one mile."
They dismounted and stowed their horses. QJ led the way off of the worn trail toward the colony. It was mostly flat, although you couldn't see your feet when you walked. The ground was covered with several inches of thick moss that made it seem like you were plodding through snow. To make matters worse, waist-high ferns were too dense to even see the ground.
"Glad you are going first QJ, who knows what we'll step in." Breeze's voice called to him from the back.
After a few minutes they exited into a large meadow, that stretched for several hundred yards. There were large mounds of red dirt popping out of the knee high grass.
"Um... The dirt mounds?" Lotte started counting them. "I count nine smaller ones and three medium sized."
Ringo nodded, "if we clear the three mid-sized, we'll gain access to the largest one. It's underground."
"Do some scouting Sato, we'll probably start on the nearest mound." QJ checked his guns while Sato stealthed and disappeared.
Breeze stood there silently, her long hair loose and blowing in the slight wind. "How we taking down elites without a healer?"
QJ took a long steel spike out of his inventory and started pounding it into the ground with a sixteen-pound hammer. "We are going to set a trap. Breeze will keep it taunted but stay out of range. The rest of us are range dps anyway. He took out a separate rope and secured it to the spike."
Lotte watched him carefully, "why not use your lasso?"
QJ grinned at her, "then I won't be able to use it to pull."
QJ waited for Robin to bring out her own mount, but instead, she put a foot in his stirrup and eased herself in front of him. "Need me to pick you up a horse Robs?"Robin shook her head and leaned back against him. "Not really. Is this inconvenient?"QJ laughed in her ear and pushed Scorch into an easy canter. "That's not the word I would use."The ride took only a few minutes, QJ was stunned by all the changes that had occurred at Briar Rose in the last day. There were wooden scaffoldings against every outside wall, most of the siding had been removed. As QJ entered the gate. he could see that the entire stone wall surrounding the property has been torn down so that it could be rebuilt. The landscaping on the grounds had been cleaned up and removed, potted plants and trees of all kinds were stacked everywhere. Someone was even pulling up the cobblestones and painting them."Wow...they are really working hard." QJ dismounted and then helped Robin down. She didn't say anything about the property, but her small smile told him that she was impressed.Aji walked out of the house as he was dismounting. "Good Afternoon sir!""Hi, Aji." He pulled Robin along by her hand. "This is Robin, she's the Commandant at the One Problem Keep."Aji smiled at Robin and bowed her head slightly. "I know who she is of course. Who doesn't know the Songbirds? Very nice to meet you.""Nice to meet you also." Robin looked at her curiously. She was quite attractive but seemed very non-threatening for a dark elf."Let go into the old workshop." QJ led the way into the house, the stairways was in the process of being rebuilt. "Did Serli send more workers?"Aji nodded, "we didn't realize the scope of this project originally, so we underestimated everything."QJ laughed at the embarrassed look on her face, "No surprise there. How could you? No one knew that this place was falling down."He walked into the workshop and closed the door. It was completely empty, except for some empty shelves and a weapon rack. "I picked up a spear and three books for you to read. The books are mine, but you can keep them here. The spear is for you."RazorSpear: UniqueDescription: Perfectlybalanced with moderate lengthand diamond cut blade.+10 Strength + 10 AgilityHe placed the books on the shelf. The first two books covered basic and intermediate Ninjutsu Staff techniques. The third he had picked up at the weapon store in Maelstrom, The 12 forms of Spear Defense.Aji accepted the spear, looking at it like it was a pile of gold. "Thank you QJ.""I'm not a spear fighter and I've only average staff fighting skills, however, come to me with any questions you have. There are lots of pictures and diagrams in the Ninjutsu books that are quite helpful.""I'll work hard every day." Aji glanced at Robin, "any tips?"Robin nodded, "while practicing, wear your armor. You want to simulate combat situations as closely as possible.""I'm going to put in on now then." Aji smiled when QJ turned around. She quickly donned the black armor from the Vampire raid.Robin couldn't stop the smile from forming on her lips. "Oh my... now that is what I call armor." She was blushing slightly, "feel free to get me something like this."QJ couldn't find proper words, he only nodded and tried not to stare. "This is also for you." He handed her a basic handgun that he had rebuilt earlier along with a holster.Pistol: Revolver SilencedFine Grade+5 Range, + 10 AccuracyCrafted by the gunsmith QJ"See the black wall? That's been bulletproofed. Not a bad idea for a gunsmith shop actually. Set up a target and practice shooting every day also."Robin nodded in agreement. "Want me to have some craftsmen bulletproof a wall at your workshop?""Sure, that sounds great. Hey, let Robin see your stats Aji."Aji SaiLevel 25NPC Class: UnknownStrength 35Endurance 29Intelligence 38Agility 33Luck 5Charisma 28SkillsTailor 100Scholar 100Spear 9Robin didn't bother to hide her surprise. "No fighting class? Where are your weapon skills?"Qj shook his head in disgust. "Her father was Kimo Sai. She wasn't allowed to train fighting skills. Aji picked up the spear skill during the raid."Robin's face showed a hint of anger. "A child is innocent of their parent's crimes!"Aji belted on the holster. "Not everyone is so enlightened.""I'll help you Aj. I'm a knife fighter of course but I can teach you many things." Robin nodded to herself, "to pick up the spear skill in a few hours means you have potential.""Thanks Robs. That's actually a great idea." Robin knew all about movement and countering. QJ handed Aji an envelope, "read this carefully and follow the directions. If you have issues procuring the items we need, contact Ezra Charles in Laredo."*********They said their goodbyes and a few minutes later walked into the Songbird. It was busy, Ren and Lark were onstage while Lara was serving. Oddly enough, Quinn was working behind the bar.None of them missed the fact that QJ and Robin were holding hands when they walked in.Quinn grinned when his son sat at the bar. He poured him a beer without asking and slid it in front of him. "You look pretty today Robin, something different with your hair?"Robin laughed and patted her hair, "I was riding, so it's probably from that."A few minutes after they sat down, Ren and Lark wrapped up things on stage and joined them. QJ decided to give his dad a hand and made burgers for the Songbirds. Thrush popped her head into the kitchen just as he was finishing up. "Two more QJ."QJ handed her a plate, "take these for now and I'll make two more."By the time he finished the last two, Robin was nestled nicely between Thrush and Wren, they were obviously teasing her. Robin's face beamed while they teased her, they were her two best friends."Saved you a place QJ." Ren patted the seat next to hers, he sat down and started eating. He could feel the eyes of the table on him.Wren leaned forward, her blonde hair braided neatly. "So... going to give Robin back to us soon?"QJ didn't bother to look up, he just shook his head. "No."Her voice was filled with amusement as she continued teasing, "Robin says you are making her a hide-out gun. Will you make me one too?"QJ shook his head. "No.""That's no fair QJ. What does she have that I don't have?" Wren smiled sexily, her blue eyes trying to tempt him.QJ finally looked up, he thought about it for a moment. "Not saying."The entire table laughed at his reply. Robin stared at him, her dark eyes unreadable. "He's working hard, creating something good.""Ignore them QJ." Ren slid an arm through his. "I hear you're a Viscount now, that's amazing!""Yep... and Vice-Commander of the Guild." QJ wolfed down his food while keeping an eye on the time. "Damn, I have to get back."Robin gave him a small smile. "Cya QJ."QJ returned her smile, "Cya Robs."He quickly grabbed his plate and walked behind the bar with it. After putting it in the sink he waved to the table and headed out.The afternoon went by quickly. After checking in with Rachel Brenner, QJ spent the remainder of the day working on his Captured strategies. He beat Nina three times in a row and tied Ringo one to one. One Problem had decided to group up early, so QJ enjoyed a quick dinner with his parents before logging in early.***********Welcome to Guns and Gore the Phoenix Server.One Problem Guild Keep 5 PM, Current Server population 29,120. Your current level is 29.QJ walked into Keep Hall, none of his guildmates were around yet. He opened up his hud, a moment later a black panther with sky blue eyes stared back at him. QJ laughed, "very funny Belle."Belle squeezed into view, her eyes were dark blue, signifying that she was using vision transfer with Mali. She wore her dark blonde hair on top of her head in a messy bun, her face was serenely beautiful. "I thought you no longer spoke to me QJ."QJ shook his head. "Actually I no longer speak to Ru, but that really doesn't work out since she's always at the Academy now."Belle's face was slightly flushed, "I'm afraid I don't handle alcohol very well."QJ nodded in agreement. "Me either, honestly I don't remember much about the evening. I do have one question though.""I... I'm very glad you contacted me. What's your question?"The rumor was that the Silverleaf women had plied QJ with wine, as rumors go is was completely inaccurate. QJ had swiped a keg of Leah and Em's brandy late at night. Em had thought that halflings were helping themselves, so she had given chase. This led QJ to flee right into the Silverleaf tent in an effort to hide. They ended up drinking the keg dry."It was dark and my head was hazy," QJ admitted. Was it you or Ru?""Me... Ru was already passed out. You and I were the only ones still awake." Belle felt her face heat up, "you aren't going to ignore me for two more years now are you?"QJ shook his head. "No, of course not. I need your help actually."Even though Belle had been blind since birth, she was still capable of many things. "Yes..."QJ sighed heavily, he felt guilt seeping into him. He had forgotten how sweet Belle could be. "Don't agree before I tell you the specifics."Belle nodded, "fine. Tell me.""I need you and a dozen of your sisters. They have to be competent fighters, no rangers though, melee only."Belle listened intently, "casters okay?"QJ thought about it for a moment and then nodded. "Quick learners preferred, this is long term Belle. Special training and undercover work. You will all be under contract."Belle pretty face showed her interest. "Can I say yes now?"QJ grinned. "Yes."She caressed Mali's ears, causing the big cat to purr loudly. "I accept. When and where?""GnG of course, my estate is called Briar Rose. It's very close to Maelstrom. The sooner the better, since some special training will be involved."Belle nodded, "give me two days. I'll contact you if I need more time.""Sounds great. Thanks, Belle." QJ closed comm just as Ringo and Lotte ported into the Keep.Sato and Breeze arrived a moment later.Sato's face lit up when he spotted QJ. "Where we heading?""South to the Magna Forest." QJ walked out of the Keep and immediately summoned Scorch."That's where we ran with Lilly." Ringo smiled at the memory, her and QJ had rode for nearly a day trying to flee Morbin's men.QJ brought up his hud and showed them on the map. "There is a whole colony of 30 level elite Sassara living there."Lotte shuddered, "those giant Snake thingies?""Yes," QJ admitted. They drop high-value leather, lots of credits and give a ton of xp."Breeze looked around, "crap... no heals?"Ringo shook her head. "Leeta has some personal offline stuff going on and Dessi is with her guild."QJ shrugged, "it's fine. We'll have to make due."Breeze stared at him as he raced off. "Sure, you aren't the tank."An hour riding due south brought them to the edge of the Magna forest. The forest was saturated with thick timbers, ten feet in diameter and hundreds of feet in height. The canopy created by the giant trees blocked out most of the sunlight and created a nice cool environment.Lotte turned toward QJ who was riding beside her. "This is beautiful, does the Keep own some of this.""We didn't at first, but since we've been upgraded to level two, we own a sizable chunk of it." QJ and Ringo had gone over the differences with Robin.Ringo, who was riding behind them spoke up. "Tonight the Keep with be emptied out at 10 PM server time. It will undergo massive changes. The walls and courtyard area will increase in size. The Keep itself will add an additional floor."Lotte glanced over her shoulder, "Chainy told me that on the Legends server the guilds all had to build their own Keeps and that only the top two or three guilds have been upgraded to level 2."Breeze whistled from behind them, she was bringing up the rear with Sato. "I hope our instances don't disappear, I haven't had a chance to check out 'Lover's Embrace yet'."QJ didn't comment, although he really wanted to. He brought his map up and slowed his horse down to a walk. "We'll have to go in the rest of the way on foot. Straight west about one mile."They dismounted and stowed their horses. QJ led the way off of the worn trail toward the colony. It was mostly flat, although you couldn't see your feet when you walked. The ground was covered with several inches of thick moss that made it seem like you were plodding through snow. To make matters worse, waist-high ferns were too dense to even see the ground."Glad you are going first QJ, who knows what we'll step in." Breeze's voice called to him from the back.After a few minutes they exited into a large meadow, that stretched for several hundred yards. There were large mounds of red dirt popping out of the knee high grass."Um... The dirt mounds?" Lotte started counting them. "I count nine smaller ones and three medium sized."Ringo nodded, "if we clear the three mid-sized, we'll gain access to the largest one. It's underground.""Do some scouting Sato, we'll probably start on the nearest mound." QJ checked his guns while Sato stealthed and disappeared.Breeze stood there silently, her long hair loose and blowing in the slight wind. "How we taking down elites without a healer?"QJ took a long steel spike out of his inventory and started pounding it into the ground with a sixteen-pound hammer. "We are going to set a trap. Breeze will keep it taunted but stay out of range. The rest of us are range dps anyway. He took out a separate rope and secured it to the spike."Lotte watched him carefully, "why not use your lasso?"QJ grinned at her, "then I won't be able to use it to pull."
