DISCLAIMER:
Hello, this fanfic is a gift to BladeKiller99 for the Secret gift in r/TD server discord. I hope you enjoy it. (Yes is spring Santa ;) don't think too hard about it). Also I want to dedicate it to Chandelier who asked me to do it.
This is just a story after the last season of Total Drama. I made it in the same universe as my fic Tyranny of the masses, so expect some references. I hope you enjoy it.
Total Drama belongs to Fresh TV and its creators. I don't own anything from the properties used in this fic
The first boot club
There was less than one hour before the sunset, and the mage Aleister was walking through the woods of Armorica, trying to reach the town of Brecconary. It was his first time in the kingdom, and he needed to reach the town for his mission.
As he was walking on the road, 2 hideous and small green humanoids jumped in front of him. They were dressed in a ragtag of clothes and human armors while brandishing large knives that in their hands looked like swords.
"Goblins? I hate goblins," said the wizard in a low tone, then he faced them with a fierce glare. "Are you trying to mug me? Do you know who I am?"
But the globins just laughed and proffered some profanities in goblinoid, after that one of them talked in human language. "Your gold, NOW!"
"And to think I give you a chance to survive," Aleister shook his head and then raised his hand, making some arcane gestures.
"Weave the infinite arcane energy into the dread of my enemies. Magic missile."
Two multicolored bolts of energy flew from the tip of the mage fingers, hitting the goblins, one on the head and the other in the chest, piercing and killing them instantly.
Aleister blew his fingers, "they aren't worth the mana spent on that spell."
But it was already late, so he decided to cast another spell to reach the village sooner.
"Fuse the 4 cardinal winds into a set of wings that carry me away. FLY" recited the wizard, casting the 3rd level spell fly.
"Wait, you can't cast fly. We agreed to use 3rd level characters," said Tammy, dressed in a red sweater and jeans instead of her classic Valkyrie outfit. Her blond hair was done in her classic valkyrie style with 2 small braids at the front.
"Oh c'mon Tammy, it's their first adventure. Can we start the adventure with 5th level characters?" pleaded Leonard, dressed in his iconic green mage robes.
They were sitting at a big dining table for 10 people in a living room. It was a nice room painted in blue, some music posters and pictures adorned the walls, and it had a fancy and expensive home theater sound system on one side of the room.
At the table were 5 people. They have some paper sheets, some odd-looking dices, and many books.
"No, 5th level is too much for beginners, and also I did the character sheets for 3rd level," said Tammy folding her arms.
"I hate to interrupt you, but I can't understand a word of what you're saying," said Cameron raising a hand talking in a low voice. He was wearing a blue hoodie, fingerless gloves, and black shorts.
Staci nodded at his side. "I agree, even I who talk 7 languages can't understand a word of what you're saying, ya." She was wearing a pink shirt with a black cat, a white skirt, and her iconic pink ribbon.
"My apologies, comrades," said Leonard rubbing his neck. "This small preview was to show how to play the game. Once everyone is here, we'll explain the rules and give you your characters."
Beardo made the sound of a bell, showing he agreed with what Leonard said.
The brainiac tilted his head. "But even after watching you, I still don't understand the rules of this game-"
"DragonFinder," said Tammy, interrupting the brainiac.
"Yes, DragonFinder, why you didn't roll your dices to attack the goblins?" asked Cameron. He had just started to read the first rule book which talked a lot of dices.
The larper smirked, rubbing his fake beard. "Good question, my young padawan[1]," but before he could answer, the doorbell sounded, playing an upbeat trumpet melody.
"What a wonderful world," said Beardo rhythmically in his soft voice as he stood up and went to open the door. He was wearing a clean white t-shirt with musical notes and baggy blue cargo pants.
Tammy clapped excitedly. "It seems everyone's here."
"Good afternoon," said Ezekiel, waving at everyone. He was wearing a grey hoodie with ripped jeans and his green toque. His hair was in a buzzcut, and his skin seemed almost normal, just a little green when he blushed.
"My great, great, great, great, great, ancestor Archimedes invented the mechanical clock. But it seems you didn't find about it yet, Zeke, so sad," said Staci making a small smile.
Cameron adjusted his glasses, looking at her shocked. "Are you really a descendant of Archimedes of Syracuse? That's impossible!"
"Maybe, but either way Zeke here is late," said the compulsive liar shugging.
"Sorry homies, but I spend a lot of time waiting for-" But before he could finish, someone else entered the room.
"Hello Dudes! I bring some popcorns and pretzels," Said Geoff opening his arms and waving his hat. He was dress in a pink tank top and blue jeans. "I was about to bring beer but Zeke here told me some of you're underaged."
"Geoff?" asked Leonard raising an eyebrow. "Greetings my friend. What are you doing here?"
"I invited him," said Ezekiel, sitting next to Staci. Beardo then came back to the room and sat next to him.
"Zeke told me you were going to have a party, and there is no party without me," said the surfer dude, winking.
Tammy tilted her head. "we're making a party but not that kind of party. It's an adventurers' party."
"Oh?" said Geoff blinking, he then shrugged. "Well I'm open-minded to try new types of parties."
Leonard looked concerned, "Sorry Geoff, but-"
"C'mon Leo, he's also part of the first boot club, eh!" said Zeke making a clumsy finger gun at the larper.
"Yes, Zeke told me this was only for first boots, and I'm definitely a first boot. I was kicked out first on the Action season," said Geoff smiling satisfied.
Beardo imitated a laughing track as Cameron squinted at Geoff. "I'm not sure if that is something to be proud of."
"Hehehe sorry," replied the party guy, who then tilted his head, "I didn't know you were also a first boot, little man."
The brainiac made a sad smile. "I was booted first in the past season, Tyranny of the Masses."
"Oh, true, I couldn't be there and host the aftermath because-"
"Sorry for interrupting but, are we waiting for someone else?" asked Tammy, looking with concern at the table. "I would like to give you the characters and play the first scene if possible."
Zeke nodded. "Not really, the only one missin' told me there was a problem, and she'll try to come later, but that we can start without her."
Tammy nodded. "Ok, everyone, let's get started first. I'll explain the basic rules."
After a moment, Tammy explained to them the basics about the game, like rolling dices, skills, and feats.
"Wow, so basically we're like playing Master of the Spheres[2] with dices. Cool dude," said Geoff making a big grin. "And the one telling the story is Tammy. What I don't understand is why is she called a Drunken master?"
"It's Dungeon master, or game master depending on the game ya. But a Drunken dungeon master can be fun to play with, ya," said Staci nodding.
Leonard and Tammy looked at her suspiciously, but Geoff ignored them and just gives thumbs up to the compulsive liar. "Cool, now I understand. Thanks, dudette. So basically, what Tammy says goes."
"You understand it quite quickly. Basically is a game in which you act as an adventurer and simulate success and failure in challenges rolling dices," said Leonard rolling a 20-sided die and getting a 1.
"AWESOME DUDE, a one. There is only 1 in 20 to get a one of those," said Geoff in a shocked voice.
Tammy shook her head. "That's the worst roll you can get in the game."
"Really! that sucks man," replied the surfer dude patting Leonard's back.
Then everyone heard a high-pitched voice coming from the hallway. "Bernie, we're going to visit Aunt Eleonora. But enjoy your party. Remember there is Mountain dew and Cheetos in the kitchen."
"Ok, thanks Dad, have fun," said Beardo in a louder voice than his usual.
Cameron made a sheepishly smile. "That was unexpected, so the skill to modulate your voice comes from your father?"
"Not really," replied Beardo in a low tone, blushing. "He just talks like that all the time."
The presents laughed at the beatboxer joke, but no one was sure if it was a joke or not.
Tammy then took a bunch of paper sheets. "Then I'll give you your characters. Leonard will play with his own character."
"Aleister, a human wizard from the lost realm of Hyrule," said Leonard covering his face with his robe sleeve.
"Let's tone down the backstories for now," said Tammy, not hiding her excitement. "Does anyone want a type of character in particular?"
"Yes, I want to play something big and strong that instills fear in the heart of his enemies," said Cameron in a harsh tone, or at least as harsh as he could make.
The Dungeon Master smiled and gave him a sheet. "Ok Cameron, you will be the barbarian."
"Barbarian, sounds strong," said the brainiac rubbing his hands, then he frowned. "Hey it says my intelligence score is 6."
"You can't be everything at the same time. If you're strong, you can't be intelligent," explained Leonard, keeping his hands inside his sleeves.
The party guy rubbed the back of his neck, looking sad at the ground. "I know what you mean men, I'm still surprised how I could graduate from Highschool."
"Geoff, I think he talks only in the game, eh!" said Zeke, as Staci rubbed the surfer dude's shoulder.
Cameron ignored the small drama. "Also, it says I'm half-ogre. That means I'm half-human/half-ogre?"
"No, you're half-ogre/half-orc, but as I told Leonard, don't worry about backstories," said Tammy as she began to look for the next character to give.
"You can use the name Uruk-hai instead of half-ogres if you prefer. It's not really official but sounds cool," said Staci, raising a finger in a teacher-like manner.
The brainiac face beamed. "That's is really Tolkienesque. I'll use it."
"Staci, I wanted to ask you. You have played DragonFinder before, right?" said Leonard rubbing his beard.
"Yes, I played before with my cousins. In fact, my great Uncle Gary invented Mazes and Monsters," said Staci proudly. "How did you know?"
Leonard chuckled. "Don't underestimate the third eye of a high-level wizard."
Beardo then made a buzzer-like sound and asked. "Then why you said you didn't understand what they were talking about when Leonard show us how to play?"
"Oh that, it was just a small lie to make things interesting, ya, sorry about that," she replied, not looking really sorry.
Tammy made a small smile and offered a character sheet to the compulsive liar. "Then please use the cleric. I think it's better to leave the healer to an experienced player."
"No problem," Staci then took a moment to read the sheet. "Uuuh, elf cleric, fancy. Can I change her god from Pholtus to Xenithar?"
"The god of commerce?" asked Tammy, rubbing her chin. "Ok I don't see why not. Go ahead."
"DUDE, I want to play with the cool and fun guy. Who is the heart of the party?" said Geoff excitedly.
The master took the remaining sheets and give one to him. "The bard is perfect for you."
"The bard power comes from singing, dancing, and partying, I think is what you wanted," said Leonard, putting a hand on Geoff's shoulder.
"Really? Oh dude, I was born to be a bard," said the surfer dude excitedly.
Then Beardo made the sound of a sad trombone, frowning gloomily at the table.
"Eh! Beardo would also like to be the bard," said Ezekiel, after hearing his friend's sad interpretation.
"Oh, don't worry, I wanted to play bard because I love music, but if I can't, there is no problem," replied Beardo in his soft and cool voice.
Geoff scratched his chin. "Can't we both play bards?"
"Oh no, that would imbalance the party," replied Tammy. Maybe she should try it, but making a second bard would take time.
"Then no problem dude, you play the bard," said the surfer dude giving Beardo the bard's sheet. "I'll play with something else."
The beatboxer looked at him with wide eyes. "Are you sure? I can also play with a different character."
"Sure Dude, we're first boot bros, don't sweat about it," answered Geoff making finger guns at him.
Beardo imitated a fanfare (the item found fanfare from Legend of Zelda, to be exact) and then bowed in gratitude.
"Then why you don't play the dwarf paladin? I think it can be appropriate," said Leonard, taking one of Tammy's sheets.
Geoff looked at the character sheet with a puzzled expression. "I'm not sure dude, he's only 4 feet tall."
"But dwarves live only for their mead and love to party," explained the wizard making a big smile.
"Really? and an entire race of short-sized party animals?" asked the blond guy, who started to get excited by the idea.
Leonard nodded, closing his eyes. "Yes, And they also have long beards."
"Can I use my beard in Braids?" asked the surfer dude, his eyes sparkling.
"Go wild, my friend," replied the larper.
Geoff waved his hat excitedly, "YOOHOO! Then you have your dwarf party animal!"
"Hey Homie, what's my character?" asked Zeke in an excited tone. "A knight? Or maybe a warlock?"
Tammy gave him the last sheet, making a big smile. "Here, it's a rogue."
"A rogue? Really? But they're scoundrels," said Zeke in a disappointed tone.
"I'm sorry, but I just made 5 characters," replied the dungeon master, tapping her fingers nervously.
Leonard stood up and walked next to him, putting a hand on his shoulder. "Don't worry, my friend, not all rogues are scoundrels."
"No!?" said Ezekiel raising an eyebrow, "but read here, his skills are sneak, pickpocket, and sneak attack. He seems like a scoundrel."
"In fact, the name of the class in old games was the thief. They're the best class for stealing and assassination, but they're fun to play," said Staci, nodding.
"See Homie, they're thieves," replied Zeke, looking with expectation at the larper "I don't want to play with a thief. I also want to be a hero."
"Thanks for the input Staci," said Leonard squinting at the compulsive liar. "But Zeke, my friend, I'm not lying, just look at the literature, there are a lot of heroes who are called thieves but aren't, like Robin Hood, Jack Sparrow, or Black Widow."
Ezekiel's eyes sparkled. "Robin Hood? That means my character can use a bow?"
"Of course, just write it down here and erase the long sword," said the larper smiling. Tammy give him thumbs-up, and Leonard winked at her.
"Well, now that we finished giving your characters, WE'RE READY TO START," exclaimed Tammy raising her arms. As she talked, the sound of thunder made her words more dramatic.
She then winked at Beardo, "Thanks buddy." Beardo replied, making another thunder-like sound.
"Before starting Tammy, let me bring some rations from the kitchen," said Leonard, who was already standing.
"Rations?" asked Geoff, scratching his head under his hat.
The larper nodded. "The Mountain dew and the Cheetos."
"Oh," exclaimed the party guy, standing up quickly like a spring. "Then let me help you. And also I'll prepare some popcorns."
"Let me show you where the glasses are," said Beardo, his voice sounding like a rumble of thunder.
Cameron rubbed his chin. "We'll not eat much, right? My mom doesn't like I eat between meals."
"Don't worry, we didn't bring too much food," said Staci smiling. "Beardo, please bring the cookies and homemade ice cream I brought. It's in the freezer".
Cameron looked at her with wide eyes, unsure which one was the lie, the one about not eating too much or the one about the ice cream.
After a moment, Leonard and the others come back from the kitchen with throw-away cups, mountain dew, water, Cheetos, popcorns (both with caramel and with butter), pretzels, cookies, and a bucket with Ice cream. They somehow fit all the food on the table along with roleplaying books, dices, and character sheets.
"I thought you say people never eat in role sessions," said Cameron squinting at Staci.
She just tsked and waved her finger. "I didn't lie, compared to my other roleplaying tables, this isn't a lot of food. And also, these are basically snacks, not food."
Cameron sighed defeated, "Can you pour me some Mountain dew?"
"In a moment," said Geoff who was the one filling the cups.
"Before starting," said Tammy raising her voice. "I need that each one of you names their character. This way, you'll feel more attached to them. Geoff, you go first."
"Great dude, my dwarf is called LittleDrunkenBeast," said Geoff proudly. The table began to laugh as Tammy frowned at him. He scratched his head, "Isn't a good name?"
"It's better if you give him a more real-like name. Just think you introduce yourself as LittleDrunkenBeast," said Tammy making a small smile.
Geoff pouted and put a thoughtful expression, then his face brightened. "How about Brody?"
"I think Brodir sounds more dwarfish," said Leonard, trying to help.
"Then Brodir it is, thanks, dude," said Geoff, writing down his name.
Tammy nodded, "Ezekiel, it's your turn."
"I was thinking of calling this guy Zeke, just like me, eh!" said the prairie boy pointing at himself.
"Are you sure you want to name it like you? I mean is a fantasy character," explained Leonard.
Zeke gave him a clumsy finger gun, "Yes, but he uses bow like me, had brunette hair like me, and is also a human. So I think it would be cool he was also a Zeke. Also Zeke is my nick. My real name is Ezekiel."
"Ok, if you insist, but it can be confusing," said Tammy, who didn't want to spend too much time choosing the names. "Staci, do you have your character name?"
"Of course," said Staci clearing her throat. "My elf priest is called Elune Stridewalker. She's named after my great, great, great, great, great, grandmother Elune, who was also an elf."
"WOW DUDE! Your family helped Santa Claus? That's so COOL," said Geoff, looking at her shocked.
The liar stuttered while trying to reply. "E-eh? No, she wasn't-"
"Santa elves sounds cool. That explains why you're a shorty," said Ezekiel, nodding. "You should be proud. It's even more interesting than my great-grandma Ruth who could see ghosts."
Staci lowered her head, defeated while Tammy continued. "Ok Beardo, do you have something in mind."
But the beatboxer stood silent. He couldn't decide between calling him Reggie Thethirdman, or Tailesin Goodsong.
"You're a bard, why you don't call your character Bard-o? I think that would be cool," said Leonard in an excited tone, as the rest cheered.
"Bardo, I love it dude!"
"I can't think of a more fitting name than Bardo, eh!?"
"I'm not an expert in linguistics, but the chance of having again the opportunity of naming a character with a name so similar to yours is statical low. I would take the chance."
Without much enthusiasm, Beardo imitated the sound of a jackpot and named his character Bardo. Next time he would name him like he wanted.
The dungeon master continued ignoring the inner drama of our poor beatboxer. "And it's only you Cameron, do you have a name?"
"Yes, Tammy, I have decided to call him Ough," said the brainiac proudly.
"Ugh? Really?" asked Tammy, as perplexed as everyone else.
Cameron adjusted his glasses, perplexed, "not Ugh, Ough. Is a monosyllabic name, and I think it fits the ogrish background of my barbarian."
"Ok fine by me," replied the dungeon master, excited since they were about to start. "And you Leonard, you will use Aleister, right?"
Leonard nodded solemnly. "Indeed, my dear Tammy, I'll use Aleister the great XIII, as this is his 13th reincarnation."
"Great, then we have all the characters, so let's get started. Remember, your character can't interact if they aren't in the scene," said Tammy clapping and making an impishly smile.
The place is the interior of the Drunken Dragon, the tavern of Brecconary. This is where adventurers, mercenaries, and low-life grunts come to try to get a job or find a group of adventurers to help them in a quest.
The inn is almost full. People are drinking, eating, and gambling in card games similar to the ones in our world. A bard is performing on the stage with a lute, but most guests ignore him.
From the door enters a big and muscular person, looking menacingly at the people in the room.
"It's my character?" asked Zeke, interrupting the scene.
"No, it's not," explained Tammy. And she continued
The big muscular man is a half-ogre. The guests stay silent for a moment, looking at the stranger. He is more than 7 feet tall and has a huge battleax on his back.
"Cam, that is Ug. What do you want to do?" asked Tammy, looking at the brainiac with expectation.
"His name is Ough, and he glares around him and then goes and sits at some free place in the bar," said Cameron, frowning seriously.
The dungeon master nodded. "Ok, you walk inside the bar and sit next to a dwarf in a full-plate mail with a braided beard. He has at least 4 empty mugs in front of him."
"Is he my character?" asked Zeke interrupting Tammy again.
"No, he's Brodir. Geoff character. Your character is a human," said Tammy in a serious tone. "Geoff, a big half-ogre sits beside you in the bar. What does Brodir do?"
Geoff thinks for a moment. "I raise my hand and call the barman. I tell him that I want another beer for me and one for my ugly friend."
"Ok, the barman nods and brings two full mugs," said Tammy, who then looked at Cameron.
"Ok, my character tells him 'Ool aiyee ugh Bobo,'" said Cameron, trying to not laugh.
Tammy looked at him, raising an eyebrow while the others laughed. "Are you talking orcish?"
"Oh no, because my character intelligence is 6, I assume he can't talk normal languages," replied Cameron blushing.
"Characters with intelligence 6 aren't like that. Any character with more than 3 in intelligence can talk." Explained Tammy, excited by Cameron's initiative. "An intelligence 6 character is stupid but not so dumb."
The brainiac looked at her tilting his head. "Can you give an example? I'm not sure I understand you."
"Think in roleplaying Chef!" said Staci, her face beaming.
All the presents laughed, and then it was decided, Chef was the perfect example of intelligence score 5-6.
"Ok let me try again," said Cameron clearing his throat. "Thanks, maggot. But don't expect any gratitude for a mug I didn't ask for."
"You're welcome, my tall friend," said Geoff in character, drinking from his mountain dew.
"It's my character already there?" asked Ezekiel, looking at Tammy with excitement.
Tammy shook her head, "No, and don't worry I'll tell you when your character is there."
"Ok, then I'll go a moment to the bathroom," said Ezekiel, standing up.
"Turn right, and in the hallway is the last door at the right," said Beardo in his soft and polite voice.
Meanwhile, Tammy gave a small piece of paper to Leonard and continued with the scene.
While you talk, another man enters the bar, he's a dark-skinned human in a green robe with a white beard. He looks nervously at right and left as he walks through the bar.
"Greetings, master," said Leonard in a solemn tone. "Bring me a beer and also tell me if there are some strong and brave mercenaries looking for a job." He then added in his normal voice. "I discreetly put a dragon coin on the bar counter."
The barman's eyes sparkle as he took the coin and walks to the other side of the bar to talk with a cloaked figure. Meanwhile, Brodir and Ough hear your conversation. Do you say something to the mage? (She then passes a note to Staci)
"Yes. Hey Leonard, want a beer!? "Shouted Geoff, slurring as if he was drunk.
"Geoff, the character isn't Leonard. In fact, Brodir doesn't know his name yet," said Tammy enjoying Geoff's interpretation.
The party boy nodded. "No problem dude. Hey guy! Do you want a beer?"
"We hear you skinny guy, you need some real men for a job. Well, my friend and I are looking for some action," said Cameron, talking in a harsh Chef-like tone.
Leonard looked at left and right nervously. "We can't talk here. We need some privacy."
While you talk, the cloaked figure comes near you. It's a-
"I took out my ax," said Cameron squinting and interrupting Tammy.
"But I haven't finished describing it," said Tammy, surprised by Cameron's improvisation.
"Better safe than sorry," he replied, still glaring at her. The dungeon master cleared her throat and continued.
The cloaked figure is a slender woman with black hair and pointy ears. She has purple eyes and a ribbon-like tiara in golden color.
"That's me, ya?" asked Staci, smiling.
Tammy nodded, and the liar continued. "Hello, my name is Elune Stridewalker, priestess of Xenithar. I heard you wanted some extra help, and I can provide it for a price." Staci then made a coin sign with her hand.
"Salutations holy person. We were just talking about that. We already have enough strength in our team, so your talents are more than welcome," said Leonard in the same solemn voice.
Suddenly a group of 6 hooded men enters the bar…
"Wait, where is Ezekiel?" asked Tammy, looking around. "It's already his turn."
Beardo made the sound of a hotel service bell, stood up, and went to look for him.
"Are we waiting for him, or will you continue while they come back?" asked Leonard, rubbing his fake beard.
"We continue, it's already late, and I want at least to end the bar scene," said Tammy, looking at her notes.
The hooded men began to look around the bar, like searching for something or someone.
"Is there a backdoor or other way to exit the bar?" asked Leonard, rubbing his fake beard.
Tammy showed a small draw of the room. "This is the bar, you're here, and there is an exit on the opposite side. Here." She made emphasis on the point. "But to exit, you need to cross in front of the hooded men."
"WOW Dude, did you draw the map?" asked Geoff, his eyes sparkling.
Tammy blushed. "Yes, I draw my own maps. It's cheaper than buying the official material, and I enjoy it."
"It's really well done. You draw like a pro," said Geoff giving her thumbs up.
"Thanks," replied the dungeon master, a big smile appearing on her face. "Now you need to decide. Are you gonna try to sneak past them?"
"NO!" said Cameron in a louder voice than his usual (that wasn't too loud anyway). "Ough doesn't sneak. They don't pay me enough for this. I'll teach those maggots the meaning of messing with me. I'll hit with my ax at the nearest hooded figure."
"Calm down Cam, they're six, and we're four," said Leonard, not wanting to start the fight yet.
Cameron shook his head. "In a fight, the first to strike strikes twice. So I'll charge at them."
"Woo,hoo, I like that spirit. Let's have that adventurers party you mention," said Geoff, waving his hat, "Brodir ends his beer before getting ready to fight."
Tammy rolled some dices hidden by a card box screen. "Ok, I only want to be sure, Ug attack them, right? There is no going back once you hit one of them."
"Yes, I'll show them the meaning of pain," said Cameron imitating Chef's voice. "I hit the closest one with my AX, and MY NAME IS OUGH."
Cam rolled his dices and got a 13, Tammy smiled and continued her narration.
Ough hit the hooded man with his Ax making a deep slash on his shoulder. The wounded man screamed in pain as the people in the bar turned toward you and your companions.
"Look, there it's him! Aleister is hiding in that corner," shouted one of the hooded man. "I'll pay 50 dragon coins to anyone who brings me his head," said another one in an authoritative voice. He's the only one wearing a red hood.
"OK so everyone, roll initiative," said Tammy, as Zeke and Beardo came back.
"It's my turn?" asked Ezekiel, his eyes sparkling.
"Yes, please roll initiative," replied the dungeon master, making a small smirk and giving Zeke a small note.
Beardo rolled the highest with a 15, while Zeke rolled a 3.
"Very good, Beardo, Bardo your character is on the stage. Aleister, Ugh, Elune and Brodir are surrounded by 5 hooded men and 4 bar patrons. They need your help. What will you do?" asked Tammy, making emphasis on the dire situation of the rest of the players.
"I'll keep playing my next song, something upbeat," said Beardo in his low voice.
Staci looked at him with wide eyes. "What? Aren't you helping us?"
"But they're 9, and we're only 5. It's dangerous to help you right now," explains the beatboxer in his soft and shy voice.
"Don't worry my friend, role your character like you want. We'll give you a reason to help us," said Leonard in a character-like voice. Then everyone acted in the initiative order.
The bard kept singing as the men surround you.
"I'll use my magic to take some of them, and you finish the rest," says Aleister, while Ough screams, and Brodir lazily takes out his war hammer. Elune walks behind you to support from the backline.
"Weave the infinite arcane energy into the dread of my enemies. Magic missile," utters Aleister while casting a spell.
As in the forest, bolts of multicolored arcane energy flew from Aleister's hands, hitting two hooded men. The wounded one in the head, knocking him out immediately, and another enemy in the chest, but the wound wasn't deep enough to kill him.
Brodir charged with his shield at some of the clients and smash the floor with his hammer, making them stand back. While Ough made a blood-freezing shout, entering in a frenzied state and cutting in two the nearest hooded man.
"Look at my orc, with that 17 he really pummeled the opponent," said Cameron, really excited about the fight.
"Calm down, little man, you're getting too excited," said Geoff, who was also having fun, but not like the brainiac.
Cameron smirked evilly. "I'll calm down once our opponents are dead." Then he made the softest and weirdest battle cry ever heard. All the players laughed as Tammy continued.
Three hooded men shoot at you with crossbows. The bolts fail to hit Ough or penetrate Brodir's shield. But the shoot from the red-hooded man hit Aleister, giving him a deep wound in the chest, only a few inches under his heart.
"10 points of damage? Really Tammy?" asked Leonard, as his mage almost die.
The dungeon master smiled shyly, "Sorry, it was a critical hit."
"Ok no problem, we have Miss Elune's heavenly power," said Leonard in Aleister's voice.
The compulsive liar made a smirk. "Of course I can heal you, but it'll cost you 1 dragon coin."
"What?" asked Leonard in disbelief, "but we're companions!"
"Sorry, but I serve Xenithar, god of the commerce, so I can't use my healing powers for free, ya," explained Staci, adjusting her ribbon.
Leonard squinted at her. "It's that true, or is one of your lies?"
"I don't know, but the truth is that I'll not heal you for free," replied the compulsive liar, shrugging.
"OK I'll pay you, but I don't have more dragon coins, so have 5 golds," said the larper in his normal tone.
Aleister gives the coins to the elf, which she puts in a small pouch in her belt, then her eyes began to shine in a golden light.
"God of commerce, please let me heal this person's body as per our contract. Cure moderate wounds," recited Elune, the golden light mending the deep bolt wound.
"Thanks holy person," said Aleister standing up.
"Ezekiel, it's your turn. You're the fourth hooded man. They contracted you in another bar to chase Aleister," said Tammy, winking. "What will you do?"
"What? I'm one of the bad guys?" asked Zeke in a discouraged tone.
"That sucks man," added Geoff, "can't he just betray them?"
"That wouldn't be fair, homie," said the prairie boy, "they already paid me. So I guess I'll shoot Aleister in the head, eh?"
"What? But they just healed me!" whined Leonard, not believing his luck.
Tammy tilted her head, "Zeke, did you read the note I gave you?"
There was a moment of silence, and then Zeke rubbed his neck. "Hehehe, I was supposed to read it?"
"Yes, it has information only your character knows," explained Tammy.
"Oh that's cool, eh! Give me a moment," he took the note and read it, Staci trying to look at it over his shoulder.
Zeke nodded. "Ohh! this change everything. Can I take back my action?"
"Of course," Tammy said, nodding, "but only because you're new to this type of game."
"Ok, then I'll use my dagger and attack the red bad guy," said the prairie guy, rolling his dice. All the presents looked at him with wide eyes.
Zeke, who is one of the hooded men, takes out a dagger and walks slowly behind his 'boss,' he then makes a sneak attack on him, beheading the red hooded men in one swift blow.
The guys in the bar run away. With their contractor dead there is no warranty they'll be paid after killing the mage, so there are only two hooded men left.
Bardo began to walk down the scenario and sing a song that makes Ugh and Brodir feel stronger and light-footed.
With the song inspiring you, both Ough and Brodir charge the 2 remaining enemies. Brodir swiftly dispatched his opponent with a big swing of his hammer that slams him against the wall. But Ug's attack was so strong that he fails to hit him, and the shaft of his ax splits in two.
"His name is Ough," said Cameron in an upset tone, "And I roll a 1 and a 5. The chance to make such a bad roll is less than 0.01 percentage."
Zeke patted his back, "Don't be so sad, homie. Just think the opposite way, you made an awesome roll, you say it, the chances were really low, and you got them."
At the same time, Beardo was beatboxing a song that sounded like a lute, creating a nice atmosphere on the table.
"Nice dude, you really are a sick beatboxer," said Geoff before taking a bunch of popcorns and eating them in a moment.
Beardo blushed and continue to perform, but this time it was even better, Tammy with a big smile continued with the game.
"Leonard is your turn," said the dungeon master, "What will Aleister do?"
The larper took a moment to think while watching the map. "The guy who shot me was already killed by our mysterious traitor, right?"
"Yes, but I prefer mysterious benefactor, eh!" said Ezekiel making awkward finger guns toward Leonard.
"Ok, then this poor soul will pay for his master's temerity," said Leonard, frowning.
Aleister stood up and began to recite a new spell to finish the remaining enemy.
"From the deeps of the earth, I craft an arrow of its noxious breath, Melf's acid arrow," recited Aleister. His movements mimicked those of an archer but without bow and arrow, while yellowish fumes danced around him.
As he released the imaginary string, the fumes quickly formed a yellowish arrow that flew like a real one toward the hooded man. In a moment, the acidic arrow melted the enemy. Only his weapons and some coins remained.
"That's impossible! What kind of acid can melt a person so quickly but leave the metal unscathed!" asked Cameron folding his arm.
"A magical one, dude!" replied Geoff joyfully.
Leonard nodded, "See, Sir Brodir got it."
"Forget I asked," said Cameron shaking his head.
With their enemies defeated and few clients in the bar, you take a seat and talk about what happened.
"I'm really grateful to all of you. Without your help, I would be dead by now," said Aleister sitting at the top of the table.
"No problem, but who were those men and why they wanted to kill you?" asked Bardo in a polite and graceful voice.
Aleister looked at them, not sure if he was doing the right thing. "I'm in a dangerous mission for the realm of Hyrule. And I'm looking for brave companions to help me. The destiny of my realm, and maybe even the world, is in our hands."
"Ough isn't sure. Ough wants to know more details," said the half-ogre in his chef-like tone.
"Yes, and what is the reward for this? We adventurers need food to survive, you know?" said Elune, making a symbol of a coin with her hand.
The hooded man stabbed a knife on the table. "Count me in. I have my mysterious reasons to join you."
"What are those reasons, if I may know?" asked Beardo, tilting his head.
"I'm not supposed to tell the other players," said Zeke, covering his face with his hood.
"Ezekiel! You shouldn't say that in character," said Tammy, "that's breaking the fourth wall."
The prairie boy rubbed his neck. "I'm sorry, but I'm really bad at keeping secrets, so I was afraid if I didn't say it like that, I would spill the beans."
"Don't worry, it's mostly about keeping the suspense. If you accidentally tell them there will be no consequences for you or your character," explained the Dungeon Master.
"And Staci, please drop the greedy priest act," said Leonard, hiding his hands on his sleeves. "This is Geoff, Beardo, Zeke, and Cameron's first adventure. Let's try to make it fun."
"What are you saying, ya? I'm having fun," replied Staci folding her arms.
Leonard rolled his eyes. "You know what I'm talking about, you can scam me to heal me, but don't do it with the rest, ok? At least wait until they have more experience."
"Ok I'll not scam my fellow players."
"You promise it?"
"Are you calling me a liar?"
Leonard shrugged, "No, but you have a lot of moments in which you prefer to twist the truth."
"That's true. Ok I promise to not scam them, ya," said Staci, smirking.
"It's already late, so let finish this scene and leave the adventure here," said Tammy looking at her phone.
"Count me in. My family is from Hyrule and I can't let someone hurt them," said Bardo, putting his arms over the table.
"Ough can't forgive those who break his ax, so I'll also join you maggots to help you splitting their skulls," added Ough in a menacing tone.
Elune put her hands in her sleeves. "If it's for the world, I can give you a discount."
"Thanks, fellow heroes. I'm not sure if the gods or the history will remember you, but I'm grateful from the bottom of my heart and will never forget this debt," he then turned toward Brodir. "And you, my dwarf friend, what you will do?"
"Sorry but I can't join you" said Brodir. The rest of the table fell in silence but he then continued. "I was promised to join a party, so unless we share some barrels of mead, I can't join you. MASTER, BRING TWO BARRELS. One for me and the other for my new friends."
And in that festive atmosphere, you form the party that may be the last hope of the kingdom.
"And that's all for today. What did you think? It was fun?" asked Tammy, looking nervously at her fellow players.
"I'm a little disappointed. I wanted to have another fight," said Cameron, frowning.
"Someone here liked to play the barbarian," said Staci in a playful tone.
The brainiac blushed. "Honestly, I didn't think it would be so fun to play a role game. It's a completely different experience than I expected. And playing Ough was exhilarating. He's my opposite, so it was really fun pretending to be big and stupid."
"Don't worry next time you'll have a chance to fight some more," said Tammy, winking.
"And also remember you broke your ax. You need a new one," said Beardo in his shy tone.
Leonard looked at him. "And you, our beatboxer, your lute was awesome."
"Yes dude, and also you talk a lot more during the game. It's a shame you don't do it more often because you have a cool voice," said Geoff, his eyes sparkling.
"You think so? Thanks. I have a lot of fun," said Beardo blushing a lot and looking at the ground with a big grin on his face.
"I also had a great time, eh! I only wish my part was a little longer," said Zeke winking back at Tammy.
The dungeon master blushed, "Sorry, but first sessions are always like this. Next time I promise to compensate you."
"Oh no, I was joking, please don't worry about it," said the prairie boy, blushing, his cheeks turning into a greenish-red tone.
"And you Geoff, did you had a good time?" asked Tammy, looking at the party guy.
"Good, IT WAS AWESOME DUDES. I'm not a fan of board games, but this was really crazy. Wait until I tell Brody I play with a smaller and broader version of him," exclaimed Geoff, giving two thumbs up to the thumb girl.
"And drunker, don't forget he was drunker than him," added Cameron, adjusting his glasses.
"Oh, no, not drunker," said Geoff, laughing, the rest looking at him with a worried expression. "By the way can I bring Bridge next time?"
Tammy rubbed her chin.
"C'mon homie, she tied with Geoff in Action. She's basically a first boot too," said Zeke, trying to support the party guy.
"I'm not sure, big parties are hard to deal with, and we miss one player today. But Tammy has the last word," explained Leonard.
The dungeon master smiled. "We can try. You can bring her."
Geoff threw his hat into the air joyfully. "RAD DUDE. THANKS A LOT." He then caught his hat and put on a thoughtful expression. "We miss a player today?"
As if queued, the door rang, with the same upbeat trumpet sound as earlier. Beardo went to open while the rest smiled.
"You will find in a moment, ya," replied Staci.
And then a familiar blond girl with a big box entered the room. "Hello, sorry I couldn't come today, but I bring a low-fat 100% natural chocolate cake."
"More food? Really?" asked Cameron in a mortified voice.
"You don't have to eat it if you don't want, homie," said Zeke, putting a hand on his shoulder.
Cameron sighed. "But it's chocolate! I guess I'll have to endure my mother's scold later.
"Lindsay? Why?" asked Geoff looking at her shocked.
"George? Why are you here? I'm here because I'm a member of the first boot club. Well, you basically could be like a member too," said the blond girl, putting a finger under her chin.
Geoff raised his hat a little and smiled. "Totally true. It's a pleasure to meet you again, dude." He didn't bother in correct her about his name.
Leonard clapped to get everyone's attention. "Ok, now that we're all here let's make our traditional toast."
"Ok, let me get some juice," said Staci, followed by Lindsay, then they shared a cup with everyone on the table.
Leonard cleared his throat and raised his own skull-shaped cup. "I raise my cup and make this toast for us, for this magical afternoon and this magical club. Thanks for joining us today, my companions. Remember, we're the best…"
"…Even if we end in last, Cheers," shouted everyone at the same time, except Geoff. Clinking his cups.
Like that ended another evening of the First boot club. For Geoff was the first but definitely not the last. Next time he already knew their traditional toast.
[1] Padawan: In the Star Wars franchise is the word to call an apprentice Jedi. Here Leonard uses it in Cameron because he is his apprentice in role playing games
[2] Master of Spheres is Lord of the rings in the TD Universe.
When they asked me to do this secret Santa for BladeKiller99, I have to accept it, he is a really nice guy and also it gave me the chance to write about Ezekiel and Leonard, who are characters I didn't have a lot of opportunities to write in the past.
The idea of the first boot club is something in common all characters have, and I think they can easily bond over that. I include Cameron from my own season because I thought I owe him at least that after eliminating him first.
Did you enjoy it? Which one was your favorite character in the fic? Would you like to read more stories of the first boot club? Please let me know in your reviews, or at least mark the story as a favorite.
As always, thanks for reading, and I hope you like it.