Okay Disney lovers and fans, I tried to work on this story over a week break and having gone on a trip. But had my lab top so I've tried to work things out. Tried to look up a few things both Disney and RPG related stuff. A lot of work, but worth the effort. So I hope you enjoy what I've manage to get ready.
And have a Happy Thanksgiving Day in the Year 2023.
Chapter 02: Evil Queen's Castle
The scene opens to where Leon Lionheart was the last time. Just a regular person, or rather, was not ordinary because of so many reasons. A bright potential person who lost his parents, grew up in a terrible orphanage, ran away to live as a secret resident in Disney World for 3 years. Only to end up…in the world of Disney straight out of a make believe fantasy story. And right now Leon was in front of the Magic Mirror from Disney's Snow White story. And while accepting the bizarre events, the guy was studying a pop-up screen that had his status.
LEON LIONHEART
Level 1
Title: Lost Child
Class: None
Subclass: (See Below)
HP 10
MP 5
STR 3
AGI 6
END 4
DEX 2
WIS 12
LUC 7
**SUBCLASS LIST**
*Chef Lv.1: Creates food items. The higher one's level, the more complex recipes one can make. Food Items automatically help one in daily life situations. Food helps recover HP and Beverage recovers MP. Food must be made with the same ingredients, and no matter who cooks it, the food always ends up having the same appearance and taste.
*Tailor Lv.1: Sew cloth and leather armor by hand. A production job to manufacture items out of various types of textile and fabric. The types of items one is able to handle or produce varies by their skill level but are known to include almost all types of fabric-related items like armor, apron, bags, cloth, and leather for light equipment such as robes and cloaks. For some high-leveled items and materials, the skills and production processes are considered closer to the likes of a magic item than just basic fabric.
*Woodworker Lv.1: Can create wood-based items, including wooden jewelry and instruments. Allows one to create a variety of wood items from raw material. Have a wide range of craft from tools, equipment to furniture as long as they're made of wood.
*Mechanic Lv.1: A difficult subclass to acquire, the job allows one to create various type of mechanism, from gears to steampunk-like machines. The subclass deals with the construction and maintenance of machines. More details unlock when subclass is leveled up more.
*Explorer Lv.1: Display he surrounding terrain and enemies/monsters at a short distance. Create an unlimited number of Unexplored Maps that writes a map of the surrounding area. One can delve into unexplored regions and investigate them. There aren't many skills except being able to display the surrounding terrain and adjacent enemies/monsters.
New Titles:
*Lost Child: A person who has lost their way needs to find a new path. They are like children, lost and uncertain of where they go from here. Being brought into a strange new world means one must overcome the hardships ahead even if they are alone.
Leon was stump and surprised by what he has, but there was another issue to focus on. None of what he has even are remotely good for fighting. And the title he currently has doesn't boast much confidence either.
"Are you ready?" Magic Mirror asked in waiting.
"Ready, have you seen what I have to work with?" Leon protest from seeing the pop-up screen; certainly a magic mirror that speaks true will know his stats aren't that great.
"Thou must know, every journey is not an easy one. To experience the world, one must discover what the world can teach them." Magic Mirror spoke in rhyme the meaning that carries much truth then lies.
"Well you're not wrong about that, but I don't have a single skill? All I have are the stuff I know from my world. What happens if I run into an enemy?" Leon tries to debate his statement, he's not much a fighter: he's smart and in shape, but those are different compared to escaping danger then running towards it.
"To know thy enemy is to know thy self. Use what knowledge you have, make it help you grow. Follow the path to the dungeon, and tools you need…shall strengthen what you lack." Magic Mirror spoke again more rhymes but this time they came with instructions.
"What do you mean by…" Leon was about to ask, but a pop-up screen interrupted him.
-QUEST ALERT-
*Free The Prisoner*
Info: The Evil Queen has imprisoned someone for defying her. An order was given but not carried out has lead to such a punishment. Free the poor soul before he perishes.
Rewards: Level-Up +2, All Stats +2 and a Surprise Gift.
"Sign…Guess this answers my question." Leon signs to give in when being faced with but one choice.
"Along the path, there will be a place with much to offer. Perform well, learn what you find to gain more insight...There what you need, will aid a beginner's journey." Magic Mirror spoke some more rhymes that rang true to help point the direction Leon has to take.
Leon silently nods before heading off to return to the castle infrastructure. The spirit in the mirror watches and nods, as if knowing how this was going to play out.
SOMEWHERE
DEEP IN THE CASTLE
Leon return to the area he was in before being lead by the Magic Mirror to the chamber, so now he explores more places then he did before. Of course the guy was trying to be extra careful because he could be in real danger, he's uncertain if he has spare lives. And if he loses one, it will be game over. Along the way, Leon yelped to hid behind the corner when hearing heavy clanking footsteps. Appearing were two normal human guards in armor carrying shields and swords. The real scary thing was seeing the eyes lack pupils, they were clear white almost like nobody was home.
-ENEMY DATA-
*Brainwashed Guards Lv.2*
Info: Once normal castle guards until the Evil Queen used her search of dark magic to turn the knights into mindless loyal minions. They can only be freed when the one who place them under a spell is defeated.
"Hmm…this was never something from the story I remember?" Leon muttered to himself while watching the guards leave. "I wonder what else I may find?" The guy issued before slipping away.
Leon continued to explore more parts of the castle hallways. There were signs that instruct which way to go. One lead towards the upper levels to the Courtyard, but the other lead towards two places: Forbidden Chamber and Dungeon. Leon quietly moves towards where he needs to go until he yelps from seeing a fork split: one path lead to the dungeon, but the other was a metal golden door with a lock.
"This one most be to the Forbidden Chamber, but I need a key to get in?" Leon studied the metal lock door. "If this was a game, the key must be somewhere specific? And I think I may have a good guess where." The guy used logic to come up with a theory of where a special key might be hidden.
Leon immediately took the other open path that lead to a dungeon chamber. The place was very much what you expect of medieval castle which includes a place for prisoners. There were four prison rooms with bars and lock cell doors. Luckily Leon spotted the keys hanging by the entrance. Base on old gamer knowledge, the path pattern would be to check every cell and find some helpful items. The first cell had a blue chest inside, so Leon open the door and as luck had it…the chest opened.
-OBTAIN WEAPON-
*Hunter's Short Dagger - STR +3*
Info: A small concealed weapon used for surprise attacks. Used by hunters to take down prey by attacking a weak spot. Deals Critical Damage when attacking targets from behind.
"Okay, so my first weapon is a dagger? Not what I was hoping for, but it's a start." Leon examines what was a silver dagger: strangely it resembles a weapon he's seen but from where.
-STAT UPDATE -
STR - 6 (+3)
After equipping the dagger, Leon search the other cells. The second cell had nothing inside it. The third cell had the skeleton remains of a prisoner. And then when checking the final cell, Leon saw there were two things in the back corner apart: a bigger blue chest and of course a person. But Leon almost instantly froze when seeing the prisoner and who he resembles. It was a grown big man with a gut but muscular physical frame, had black hair comb to reach down the neck, a black short beard and had light bronze color eyes. Wore a medieval style custom clothing of brown leather boots, black pants, a dark tan green sleeve shirt, and tan light grey gloves. Wore a tan light brown sleeveless fur coat stretch down to the hips, strap by a brown belt with a gold buckle clip, and a tan light brown medieval felt hat pilgrim style with a red feather attach to it. And attach to the belt by the right side was a sheath where a small knife or dagger would be kept in.
"Hmm, who are you? You are not of the guards?" The prisoner suddenly took noticed of someone watching him, but was lightly surprise by a different visitor instead of the usual bunch.
"Um, no…I'm not? Are you…the only prisoner here?" Leon was a bit shaken to get himself together and try to make a conversation: especially to a character he knows from the Disney version of Snow White.
"Indeed. My name is Humbert, Humbert The Huntsman. My duty was to hunt prey for the kingdom. But I failed in the one prey I could not kill." The man in the cell introduce and explained briefly of who he is...or rather was at the time.
"And that would be?" Leon asked in an awkward state, knowing full well the answer.
"The little princess, Snow White. The Queen ordered that I kill her and place her heart in a box." Humbert explained with his tone full of grief on recalling such a scary experience. "But when I was there, what I seen of a heart so gentle and kind, I could not do it. I was driven by the fearful wrath of the Queen, I had to obey but...Snow White's innocence affected me more so then my life. I warned the princess of the terrible plot and had Snow White flee for her sake to live." He finished explaining the harsh tale right up to his last act of good-will.
"And so what happen to the Queen when you failed the task…?" Leon asked from knowing how the next story here goes but played along.
"I used the heart of a pig to convince her majesty that I did the deed, and tried to flee this kingdom before my ruse would be discovered." Humbert explained the next event that he did to elude suspicion. "But I found myself here, as if dark magic surround my being when I was near the border to escape a kingdom controlled by evil. And so, I await my faith…" He concludes his tale while looking down, as if accepting his fate.
"Ouch, I'm sorry to hear that." Leon cringed from thinking such a thing awaited this man: from a memory about the Huntsman, it was believed he escaped the Evil Queen so this event was something new. "But maybe you don't need to despair, perhaps I can free you." He issued from trying to cheer Humbert up
"You free me? Even when knowing what I was hired to do and kill such an innocent life?" Humbert looked to Leon in shock and surprise.
"It was not your fault, you hunt things like animals. It's other people with evil intentions that misuse your talent." Leon sternly explain how it's usually evil people that use good people's talents down the wrong path.
Wasn't long before Leon used the key to open the cell door. The Huntsman was amazed by such an honest young man. When the man approach, he spotted something that was in Leon's possession.
"That dagger, where did you get it?" Humbert asked from inspecting the weapon Leon had obtain.
"This, it was something I found in one of the other cells?" Leon raise an eyebrow, puzzled that such a simple dagger caught this guy's attention; why is that?
"That is the dagger I once nearly use to take a life. To think I see it here?" Humbert admits which made Leon become wide-eye, shock that he carried a weapon almost used to harm Snow White. "Are you from a faraway place young man?" The Huntsman change the topic to question Leon's place of origin.
"Um, yes…you could say that?" Leon sheepishly smile to rub his back head: unable to say he came from a real world and was summon to a place straight from an animated movie.
"Your clothes are strange to me? But however you end up here, you must escape this wicked place." Humbert gave advise and a warning for Leon's own sake for helping him out. "As gratitude for freeing a man who almost done a terrible sin, that chest I was hauling is yours. You earn it, and this…" Humbert points to the chest in the cell while pulling something out of his left boot that surprised Leon.
"A Golden Key?" Leon yelped from seeing what Humbert presented to him was a key not of silver, but gold.
"The Queen visited me when I was imprisoned. She drop it during her frustration to get me to confess what I done." Humbert explained what occurred during that event that he obtains such a key. "I do not know what it's for, but it too is yours." He held Leon's right hand and gave the key and press the young man's hand to close around it tightly.
"I think I know where it might fit. Thank you." Leon issued with determination while giving his thanks.
With everything settled, the Huntsman bids Leon farewell to move off. And then Leon approach to open the larger chest, and it opened to reveal more surprises. Right along a pop-up surprise…
-QUEST COMPLETED-
*Free The Prisoner*
REWARDS: Level-Ups +2, All Stats +2
Special Gift - Wanderer's Set
*Armor: Wanderer's Robe - DEF 4*
*Leg Gear: Wanderer's Pants - DEF 2*
*Arm Gear: Leather Gauntlets - DEF 2*
*Foot Gear: Bronze Boots - DEF 2*
*Shield: Wooden Shield - DEF 4*
"Well now, I was expecting something like this to come along. I guess I'll try it on since no one is around?" Leon exclaimed partly surprised: mostly cause like in any RPG Game, a character's avatar receive a new wardrobe.
After a brief time to change, Leon soon came out of the cell looking different. After all, his cloths stood out too much, so he needs cloths to blend in with his surroundings. A wanderer's tan light green robe with a tan light brown clothing beneath it, short sleeve and reach down near the ankles. Wears dark black baggy pants, dark grey bronze armor boots reaching the ankle region and dark grey leather gauntlets over a bandage wrapping the wrist to the elbow region. Wore brown belt strap by the waist with tied fang accessory, a bronze leather chest protector strap with a tan yellow right shoulder plate. Wears a tatter blue hood cape. The last thing was arming a circle shape wooden shield with some metal plates on the outer parts and center piece.
-STATUS UPDATE-
LEON LIONHEART
Level 3
Title: Lost Child
Class: None
Subclass: Obtain 'Adventurer' and 'Scout'
HP 12
MP 7
STR 5 (+3)
AGI 8
END 10
DEX 4
WIS 14
LUC 9
*Adventurer Lv.1: Versatile general skills and resistance skills against unique environments, such as volcanoes, glacial lands, dry deserts, and humid forests. Status growth focuses on END and other stats barely rise. Grow stronger as one experience battle, to gain different powers and abilities. Adventurers travel the world, battling giants, undead, dragons, and other monsters. Gain a mini-map to help mark where one has been when exploring new areas, regions, cities, ruins, etc.
*Scout Lv.1: Increases detection range, allows one to detect ambushes, and allows one to view more detail enemy status. A military/exploration type job specialize in scouting and battlefield inspection. Scouts have increased detection range, detect ambushes, and conduct reconnaissance missions. Using the mini-map from the Adventurer subclass expands to display covert enemies in vicinity and enemy information over long distances. Abilities are extremely useful in dungeons and considered the best option for solo individuals.
"Well now, I now look the part of some Disney character from a fantasy tale?" Leon exclaimed from studying his new standing and appearance. "At least this shield will provide some defense for me. I just wish I had something else than this dagger?" Leon reviews his gear while trying to make sense of their strength.
Just as Leon was prepared to leave, he heard clanky footsteps approaching. The guy hid by the wall side near the entrance and two Guards appeared. Leon grip the dagger, and then did a surprise act…he struck one enemy from the blind backside.
"Swoosh!/Arrrrrrugh!" The first Brainwash Guard cried out before dropping to the ground unconscious from critical battle damage.
"WHO'S THERE!?" Then a voice of the other guard replied and look back to see two things that enrage him: a defeated guardsman and the one who attack said guardsman.
"No time like the present to see what I can do the now?!" Leon narrow his firm eyes to watch and get into some fighting position. "It's a good thing I watch so many fighting films and learn some defenses. Time to see if they pay off." The guy issued from knowing this will be a test of his fighting capability in another world.
Leon used his skills of having kept in shape to use speed against the dumbfounded guard. The enemy swung a sword but Leon guarded with the Wooden Shield, it was pretty handy. The enemy tried to break through, but Leon struck when the guard left himself wide open. The damage was not quick as the last target. But then Leon did something crazy, he charged forth to leap in the air and ram his shield into the enemy's face.
"GO-Haaaaaahhhh!?" The last Brainwashed Guard cried out as he began to topple backwards before falling on his backside, and unconscious too.
With that, the guards were all defeated. Leon took a moment to catch his breath, that was his first time facing enemies for his life. At least the enemy was a slow brainwashed minion class of a low level and not someone higher and more difficult. Then a pop-up window appeared.
-BATTLE COMPLETE-
First Enemy Encounter - Clear
Info: You defeated your first bunch of enemies. The first time is always something to help one remember this experience down the road. Awaken your sleeping abilities, and continue to improve.
REWARD: Level-Up +1, MP +3, STR +3, AGI +3
BONUS GIFT: Learned Skill - Slash
"What the...a skill?" Leon yelps in surprise before reviewing his stats.
LEON LIONHEART
Level 4
Title: Lost Child
Class: None
Subclass: Obtain 'Adventurer' and 'Scout'
HP 12
MP 7-10
STR 5-8 (+3)
AGI 8-11
END 10
DEX 4
WIS 14
LUC 9
***SKILLS LIST***
*Slash: When wielding any sword type weapon, big or small, one can deal this sword technique. It will cut through normal enemies. The stronger the user, the faster then finish their targets. But when fighting stronger opponents, it may take a few more attempts. COST 0MP
"Finally, a skill!" Leon smiled upon having gain something he can fight with. "Now I don't have to be afraid of those guards." The guy was truly glad that some luck smiles upon him.
Before Leon was gonna leave, he drag the unconscious guards and lock them in a dungeon's cell. Maybe when the Evil Queen is defeated, they will go back to normal. After leaving the dungeon, Leon had his new mini-map appear on the pop-up screen. Thanks to his subclass of being an Adventurer, this would help one not be so lost and finding one's path. Leading back to the spot were next to the dungeon path and the route he came from, was the golden lock door.
"Okay, deep breaths…it's either a treasure room…or a Boss I need to fight?" Leon muttered from trying to take a few easy breaths to think. "Let's do this!" He held the golden key up to the face, bracing his choice.
Leon used the golden key into the lock, which opened forth a new path. What Leon found after entering the open golden door was a stairway going down somewhere. The scenery had a familiar sense for some reason. After going around a spiral stairway pillar, one reaches the bottom that had more flat space distance from a door. Leon stops by the wooden door, and opens to see what's there. And discovers a lit chamber with a bar window side, and was filled with strange things like beakers with tubes, even a cauldron. The theme the chamber had was like being in an alchemist research during the Medieval Ages. And there were other things of a globe of the planet, skull ornaments, and from tables to shelves were scrolls and books of different titles.
"No way! This is the Evil Queen's chamber? The place she brew potions and had a collection of her witchcraft to cast spells." Leon was completely overwhelm, he was expecting treasure sure, but nothing like this. Then a pop-up screen appeared...
-DISCOVERY FOUND: TREASURE QUEST-
*Wisdom Seeker*
Info: Unknown to many how the Evil Queen came into power. Many say she sold herself, body and soul to the evil spirits of Hartz Mountains to become a witch with arcane knowledge and the ability to cast magic that's malevolent in nature. To best defeat such magic, one must understand it. Study the books and gain rewards to increase MP, WIS and possibly learn other skills.
"Learn magic, hugh? I never thought it was possible." Leon exclaimed from what he has just learn. "Magic isn't real, it's all pretend. I once believed in it as a child, back when my parents…" The guy was stating a fact until he stopped himself...
Leon signs deeply from having a brief recall of his past. He was a gifted genius, but a child at the center of a normal family. But when having lost that magical moment, Leon struggled to find it to fill the void. Course now that he's been summoned to a Disney Universe, it's highly possible one can gain magic. Checking the book selection, there were titles Leon recognized from Disney's Snow White film that the Evil Queen had collected: Astrology, Black Arts, Alchemy, Witchcraft, Black Magic, Disguises, Sorcery, and Poison.
"Let's try something as an experiment, the least dangerous?" Leon issued on wanting to try a theory: which was gain some stat or learn a skill by reading a specific book.
Leon picked Astrology and began to read through it. The book was about study of the movements and relative positions of celestial bodies. The positions of the sun, moon, planets, and stars that are believed affect the character and lives of people. It was a fascinating subject for certain, then a pop-up message appeared:
-UPDATE STATS-
MP 10-15
WIS 14-20
LUC 9-12
Once Leon was done with that, he put it back before checking the next book which was on Alchemy. A magical process of transformation, creation, or combination. A renown medieval forerunner of chemistry, the kind that talks about transforming matter. Especially converting base metals into gold or to find a universal elixir. Leon enjoyed researching such a field when another message popped in:
-UPDATE STATS-
MP 15-20
WIS 20-26
REWARD: Obtain New Subclass
*Alchemist: Creates potions and other consumable magic items. One can create bombs, explosive potions, and low-level healing potions. Experienced and high-level Alchemist can increase the value of objects. Further areas of expert level focus on creating element affected objects and golems.
After completing that book and gain more insight, Leon decided to understand a difficult topic on Poison. The talks on creating poison- based items, boosting poison and knowledge on various poison and poisonous items and plants. Even the effective use of poison applied to weapons. Including its effective to healers and heal spells, but not so well against undead, golems and other inorganic things. Leon certainly found the topic enlightening, then a pop-up screen appeared:
-UPDATE STATS-
MP 20-25
WIS 26-32
DEX 4-8
Leon could tell some of these books are dangerous, but their knowledge can help him. Next was studying Disguises, and there was many things to learn. The key was helping one act discreet and find intel as someone else. Making one perfect for espionage, conceal and manipulate information or spread disinformation. Leon could almost find this as a career for spy work but was cut off by a pop-up message:
-UPDATE STATS-
MP 25-35
WIS 32-40
AGI 11-18
So far Leon read four books, and they provided some good aid. Now the next test was Witchcraft. The practice of magic, especially for evil purposes and use of spells. The use of witchcraft is the expression of a malign power in a person's body. Even the use performance that involve bewitching or fascinating attraction or charm on the population. Leon could tell how this may have attracted the Evil Queen before another pop-up screen showed up:
-UPDATE STATS-
HP 12-25
MP 35-40
WIS 40-45
After having finished that book, Leon was picking up two books that are tied to each other, Black Arts and Black Magic. The practice considered mysterious and sinister. The process was not only mysterious but also difficult to master. Even the magic involves the suppose invocation of evil spirits for evil purposes. It's truly what one expects as magic for evil and selfish purposes. Leon felt against reading this, but knew knowledge was key, especially when a pop-up screen came baring news for him:
-UPDATE STATS-
HP 25-35
MP 40-50
WIS 45-55
END 10-20
DEX 8-24
Having finished two books, it was a lot to take in while receiving loads of stat updates, but there was still one more. The final book Leon saved with hope and anticipation, was Sorcery. This one was a bit different from Witchcraft since Sorcery uses the magical craft or knowledge to harm or benefit others. Sorcery even controls some spirits and alter the elements. Leon felt like this could hold important clues right as the pop-up screen showed up:
-UPDATE STATS-
MP 50-65
WIS 55-70
REWARDS: Obtain 2 Spell Skills
**SPELL SKILLS:
*Lightning Bolt: Cast a lightning attribute magic spell. Channel an electrical force of energy into one's hands or weapon. By hands release a lightning discharge that paralyzes targets and helps run electrical equipment or disable such machines. By channeling the energy through a weapon, release a strong yellow voltage as a crescent blade to deal damage cut surface or a bolt of energy piercing through target protection as fast as lightning. However this won't work too well against Ground, Wood, or Rock type enemies. COST 10MP
*Windlash: Cast a wind attribute magic spell. Channel the force of wind through one's hands or weapon. By hands can blow the target off balance and push certain lightweight objects or incoming projectiles. By channeling the gale force of wind through a weapon, can release a cutting crescent form of white aura or a piercing aura of wind that shatters some defenses. The higher one's level, the stronger the spells become. However this won't work against targets too big and too heavy that they can't budge. COST 10MP
"I never imagine that the phrase of reading brightens their horizon. It's both mentally and physically true. And just like in games, my stats are raised and I gain other surprises." Leon was literally surprised after he finished the last book. "The best of all, is obtaining spells…and they apparently are the same ones as what the Evil Queen was capable of doing. But do they work?" The guy was equally fascinated but curious at the same time.
So Leon decided to give it a whirl with the least destructive spell. A sudden air pressure of gust wind blew from the open hands that moved the pages of scrolls nearby. When Leon open his eyes and saw what he did, he broke out with a smile. Then a surprise window popped out of nowhere.
-QUEST COMPLETED-
*Wisdom Seeker*
BONUS REWARDS: Level-Ups +2, STR +7, LUC +6
-STATUS UPDATE-
LEON LIONHEART
Level 5
HP 35-45
MP 65-75
STR 15 (+3)
AGI 18-20
END 20-24
DEX 24
WIS 70
LUC 18
Explorer Lv.1-2
"Well now, I've reach Level 5? I guess the extra quest do indeed help boost level ups." Leon exclaimed from the amazing gifts he got. "And apparently Explorer rose up a level, I wonder? Hmm, maybe the more I perform my classes, the stronger they help during the long run." The guy had to think about this: perhaps raising one's class profession is just as important as a normal level up function.
With almost nothing else left to find of value, Leon prepares to leave. But then a raven was seen flying around making it's squawky sounds. It lands near a skull ornament, gazing at Leon.
"Oh that's right, you're the bird that stays here. I forgot about that?" Leon stated on recalling this minor character he's seen from the story.
"Kaw-Kaw!" The raven made it's cries and spread it's wings.
"What's gotten your feathers all rattled? I won't harm you?" Leon raise an eyebrow, puzzled by the bird's actions.
"KAW!" The raven made a final cry before flying away.
When the raven flew off, something behind Leon was glowing that was a body frame. Then it began to move and Leon saw it's shadow to turn around to see a fist coming...
"BREAK!" And that fist broke through the solid wall which was almost someone else's head.
"WHAT THE?!" Leon raised an eyebrow to stare at who else was in the chamber with him
When Leon took a good look at the surprise attacker, he was utterly speechless and for good reason. It was a knight's suit of armor silver and few gold themes, spikes on the shoulder pads, and a helmet with a red mohawk feature design plus golden mask cover with only the beady eye holes. Wields in the right hand was a broadsword with two split crescents forming down from the point to the bronze and black knight handle frame and in the left hand was a round shield with bronze outer lining, inside were neon blue eight pattern with silver vines and in the center was a silver symbol of a knight's house. But the real shock was seeing no flesh in the armor, it was moving on it's own and it had glowing bright eyes.
-ENEMY DATA-
*Mid-Boss: Dullahan Lv.9*
'Cursed Living Armor'
Info: The Evil Queen knew that if an intruder should ever enter her secret chamber filled with her magical collection that gave her power, they would meet a terrible end. So she used a dark spell to trap a soul in an empty suit of armor. The only way to defeat a warrior that can fight off a knight squad is by dealing enough damage to break the curse and free the soul.
"A curse living armor? Really?" Leon raised an eyebrow from what he's force to face; a Mid-Boss at that. "I know there was nothing that said this in the old series." The guy issued to complain: mostly because there was never mention of a curse living armor of any kind in this Disney world he's in.
"HUUUARRRGHHH!" Dullahan roared as it broke the fist free of the wall to attack the intruder.
""WOAH!" Leon managed to dodge from almost being attacked again while making a bee-line for an exit. "At this rate, I can't always assume things go precisely as they did from the films?" Then as Leon tried to open the door leading out, a magical barrier repelled him away. "Speciously, a magic barrier. Looks like I'm stuck facing a Boss Fight until I fall or HE Does!?" The guy knew the type of rules in play, it's either you win or lose kinda game.
Leon yelps when Dullahan tried to strike his sword, but was stop by the Wooden Shield blocking it. The heavy weight and power Leon felt was certainly different from the Brainwashed Guards, it might have to do with the enemy's higher level then himself. But the OverWorlder was not done, he had some tricks to play, starting with gathering wind around his free hand.
"WINDLASH!" Leon shouts before unleashing gale wind that gently pushed the opponent away: or rather the reserve method. "Woah?" Leon yelps to rebalance himself when skidding to stop against a wall. "Note to self, work on timing to distance one's self from an enemy? Especially when enforcing too much wind and it backfires on you against a slightly heavier foe." The guy may have acted on the spot without thinking, but he may have been just lucky.
"URRRAAAGH!" Dullahan roared as he moves to approach.
"If Wind doesn't cut it, then lets try another element. LIGHTNING BOLT!" Leon announced while holding both hands emitting electrical energy.
Leon unleashed his first full on scale lightning attack. It was a complete spread force attack, breaking some jars in the way, but also struck the curse armor foe. Dullahan suddenly was reacting to the electric surges which began to stop it's movement.
"It stun him, but not for long? Lets try a few basic Slash Combos to deal some damage." Leon declared what his few options were when given time to think.
That's when Leon charged forth, and used the Hunter's Short Dagger to perform Slash Combos...at the backside. The effect of dealing Critical Damage played a vital role to weaken the enemy's health, it was the only method Leon could pull against a strong foe.
"RAAAUUURRRRRRGH!" Dullahan roared as he broke free of the stun state to move again.
"BASH!" Leon yelped when the enemy used it's shield to bash hard against the Wooden Shield the guy used last second. "CRASH!" The attack output knock poor Leon across the chamber and broke against some wooden floor cabinets. But then Leon saw the Curse Armor unsheathe it's sword, ready to take the fight more seriously and deal greater damage then with just fist and shield.
"Ugh, at this rate...I don't know how long my shield can last? It's made of wood, against something made of stronger material. I need something unexpected?" Leon groans while trying to figure a way to win here. "Hmmm?" But then by some miracle, Leon discovered what he fell on from the broken cabinet just now: 2 full traveler's sacks filled with loads of tied sphere bags with tied ropes and a fuse sticking out. Then a pop screen appeared.
-OBTAIN ITEM-
*Alchemical Bombs - 2 Bags (20X - Each)*
Info: An alchemical bomb combining violent alchemical components that explode when the bomb hits a creature or object. Most alchemical bombs deal damage, though some produce other effects. But the more bombs used at once, the greater the output.
"Heh, a bomb? Well if nothing else works, maybe it can play out a distraction." Leon exclaimed from deciding to take the chance and use what's around. "And maybe I can try those elements again, but this time...through my weapon and get different results." The guy slowly stood up with renew determination.
Dullahan was approaching and so Leon used one of the bombs by controlling a small electric discharge to spark the fuse. Leon recalls a flash image of playing baseball with his father, and repeats the throwing position. When the bomb came close, Dullahan raised it's shield...
"KABOOM!" Then a small contain explosive force erupted from when the bomb made contact, and knock the curse armor across the chamber. "CRASH!/UUrrrarrgh?!" Dullahan hit the barrier by the front door as it moans from the damage it shaved off.
"LIGHTNING BOLT!" Leon was seen charging another electrical move, but through the dagger.
Then a crescent blade made of electric energy was unleashed. "Zzzzzzt!" The attack made contact with Dullahan as greater voltage shock the armor and force it to drop it's shield and sword.
"I don't know if this last one will work, but here's hoping! WINDLASH!" Leon proclaimed as he focus the wind and channel to cover the dagger.
And again from the dagger, created a white crescent aura blade launched forth from a single swing. "Shing!" And without warning the attack made an impact in a vertical position against the enemy. And first Leon was wary, but then he saw something...
"Urr-Urrr...Oooohh..." Dullahan wobbled to move from where it was, it moans a few steps until...the glowing eyes faded. Then the entire armor fell across the floor which surprised Leon just as the helmet rolled towards him. But then magical purple particles sparkle off the curse armor suit, and was fading away.
"Um, I guess that did the trick?" Leon lightly replied from seeing how that just happen.
Leon approaches to inspect where the fallen Curse Armor was. Then the guy found two things he picked up that belong to Dullahan; at the same time, the pop-up screen appeared.
-ENEMY BATTLE-
Mid-Boss: Dullahan - Defeated!
Info: You have defeated the curse armor and freed the soul trap inside. Dullahan was made to have the strength of 10 men, defeating an enemy of that scale shows promise. With this victory, you've grown stronger and receive your rewards.
REWARDS: Level-Ups +3, HP +25, MP +15, STR +40, AGI +10, LUC +15, 3 Special Gifts
Awaken Subclass: Collector
*Collector Lv.1: People who like collecting certain items as a hobby. On a practice level, has the ability to slightly increase drop rates and enhance collecting efficiency. Gain useful skills for collecting, like an increase of storage and weight capacity and slightly better drop rates for items that couldn't be gained by random drops before.
**Obtain Awaken Skills**
*Lightning Slash: Unleash a Lightning element spell through a bladed weapon in the form of a crescent-shape. Deals heavy shock magic damage to targets. COST 15 MP
*Wind Sword: Unleash a Wind element spell through a bladed weapon in the form of a crescent-shape. Deals fast cut blow magic damage to targets. COST 15 MP.
ITEMS/WEAPONS
*White Knight's Sword - ATK 12*
Info: A weapon wielded by a noble knight. A pair of Sword and Shield that offers strong offensive and good defense. They were used by Dullahan to defeat groups of knights with near ease.
*White Knight's Shield - DEF 4*
Info: A weapon wielded by a noble knight. A pair of Sword and Shield that offers strong offensive and good defense. They were used by Dullahan to defeat groups of knights with near ease.
*Teleport Stone*
Info: A blue glimmering magic stone capable of one use. Can teleport anyone or party to a last known location close by. It's been said to help those exploring in deep dungeons to return to the entrance and not fight more enemies in wait.
After having seen the rewards gotten, Leon soon sees the update of his status and his current level:
-STATUS UPDATE-
LEON LIONHEART
Level 8
HP 45-70
MP 75
STR 15-55 (+3 & +12)
AGI 20-30
END 24
DEX 24
WIS 70
LUC 18-33
"Well now, jumping straight to Level 8 is a big step closer to Level 10." Leon exclaimed on how he's gone 3 levels up after reaching level 5. "And the new sword and shield may just really help out." The guy practice his sword and shield use, different from wielding a dagger and shield, but with this balance weapon set the guy is good to go...
"KAW!" The raven cried out to earn attention.
"Yes, I know you were warning me, but it's over." Leon stated to look at the squawking bird.
"Aww-Aww..." The raven however flew away while in a panicky state.
"What is the matter with..." Leon was about to ask the question...
But then suddenly Leon's senses went up high, as if he sense a presence coming and it was by the door. Whoever it was, it felt like it was worse then the Dullahan opponent Leon barely made it through. The guy search for a place to hid, since the door entrance was out, there was only the secret trap door. Leon found the trap door that would lead to a secret river under the castle...but it was locked. Chopping with a sword or blasting with magic would alert someone of Leon's presence so he had to find another spot to hid. And as luck would have it, he found a large body size chest. Knowing the options were low, Leon check to find the chest was empty and there was a hole no bigger then a small animal or pet could squeeze through.
"It'll have to do!" Leon shook his head to just deal with what he's got.
Leon climb into the chest before closing it and found several holes to peak through. And that's when something open the door to enter the chamber, and Leon was right to react when he did or he face something he's not ready for - a Disney Villain! This one was an ugly, old peddler woman with long, chest-length white hair, thick eyebrows, green eyes, and dark rings around the eyes. Her nose was long and crooked with a large wart, and only has one visible tooth on the bottom jaw. Hands are gnarled and have pointed, dirty fingernails. Dons a black, cowled robe that has the hanging sleeves, and also seems to wear gray slippers. Leon saw through the large chest's holes to see who's there, and nearly had shivers from the red aura of magic the old witchy woman gave off...
"That's...the Evil Queen, but transform into some Witch to look like an old ugly peddler. What's going on?" Leon silently muttered from sounding so shock and surprised while recognizing this scene opening on meeting the villain while in hiding.
"Ahhh, I gathered the ingredients. Now it is time to make the potion." Evil Queen declared with a low scratchy and wicked old crone's tone.
"Ingredients? Potions? It couldn't be...?" Leon muttered to hold his chin to process what ties the clues he heard would mean together: and it made a concern one. "There's no explaining it, but I maybe witnessing the early events of when after the Evil Queen obtain her disguise, she must have lack ingredients to make a poison apple. I only recall her brewing the cauldron, nothing else...?" The guy remembered the scene on how it played but didn't know anything about this one.
"Hmmm, has something been here?" Evil Queen noticed the chamber seem different, like another presence disturb things in place.
"Ugh!?" Leon gasped silently to cover his mouth, hoping to not be discovered.
"This place is in a messy state during my absence? I wonder..." Evil Queen ponders of what could have happen during that time. "Did you have anything to do with it?" She turns to the raven as if suspecting it had a hand or talon in this
"Kaw!?" The raven nervously yelp and flew up to a higher shelf, worried for its life.
"Heheheh, no of course not. So then something else is to blame." Evil Queen issued on knowing there's another explanation for this. "Where are you, my little pretty?" She pretends to sweetly call out, expecting one to give in under a false hope that nothing bad will happen.
Leon was frozen with fear, as he grip his sword tightly while watching the Evil Queen. He tries to see if maybe his ability to see the enemy's data could provide hints for him, but what he received was...a red flashing pop-up screen:
-ALERT-
*VILLIAN DATA - RESTRICTED*
Info: Because the Disney Villain's level is much higher, one is unable to see through their data and strength. Please level-up and strength classes to help see more data.
"Great, that means she must be so strong I can't determine it. But how strong is she?" Leon moans underneath his breath: the first Disney Animated Villain may just be a bigger problem for a beginner to handle here.
"Hmmm, what was that noise?" Evil Queen suddenly heard some sound as if movement. "Is someone hiding in that chest?" Then suspicion fell upon the large human-size chest which seems possible to keep one hidden. "I don't know who be foolish to come here, but you will wish you haven't come!" She gave a wicked and threatening remark on the poor soul.
"Uh-oh, gotta think? What to do?" Leon muttered with worry, what can fool the enemy to know it's not a person but something else. "Cough-cough...Merrrooowww...?" Then he clears his throat while making a cat-like noise.
"Oh, a little stray cat found it's way here and is trapped?" Evil Queen exclaimed from hearing the cat's cry and guessing what the creature was doing. "That's a different story, the poor thing is suffering with no way out? Let us help get it out, and put it out of it's misery. Hahahaha..." When she said this part and ended up laughing evilly, Leon knew he wasn't safe yet.
"Okay, that didn't help much but at least bought me time. But I'm still trap? The moment she finds me, I'm as good as gone." Leon muttered to figure a way out without engaging and without being seen. "Wait, maybe one of the items I have can help?" The guy quickly tries to check the stuff he's got to even his pockets.
As the Evil Queen searches through the weapons area until selecting...an AXE!? Leon was reviewing what he has on hand which was mostly gear, weapons, and the few objects and items in his possession. And only the glimmering blue stone he had in his hand, seem like the thing that can be helpful in this state.
"Let's hope this Teleport Stone lives up to it's name." Leon silently muttered from knowing he's got one shot and best make it count. "Send me back to the beginning, away from here!" He grip the stone and muttered under breath his desire of where to be.
Then Leon closed his eyes, trying to focus solely on what he wants. The Teleport Stone began to glimmer more until it surrounds Leon's body and instantly vanished in a small sparkle dust. Then at that time the Evil Queen opens the chest to attack, but saw nothing inside except for a hole in the wall.
"Bahhhh...the little cat managed to escape!?" Evil Queen remarks on guessing the little animal slip away the same way it got in from the hole. "No matter, I must complete the potion, and kill Snow White!" She made a wicked grin before turning her attention on her objective while letting loose a small cackle...
ELSEWHERE
THE MAGIC MIRROR CHAMBER
The scene changes to reveal that where Leon Lionheart was magically teleported...was back in the chamber where he meant the Magic Mirror. Leon opened his eyes to suddenly notice where he was, and who he was away from - the Evil Queen.
"Few...I thought I was almost a goner?" Leon signs with relief, fearing the encounter was too close a call.
"Welcome back to where it started. You have return, and with you a gift you lack...experience." Magic Mirror spoke in rhymes which showed it's focus on Leon's progress.
"Yes, well I did find the prisoner of whom I had to rescue, and fought off Brainwashed Guards. And of course, read books that strengthen me and learn magic." Leon stated when approaching the mirror to explain his tale. "I even encounter something that was not part of the story I know, why is that?" He wanted to question the matter involving Dullahan, knowing that there was never any involvement of curse armor foes in the Snow White story he knows by heart.
"It is as what was said upon your arrival. A story of what you know may come to pass, but there are others that may change such a past and be born a future a tale not so fair." Magic Mirror spoke his rhymes with riddles that carried important clues of the matter.
"Ugh, trying to get anymore answers out of that will take almost forever? But what about the Evil Queen? As far as I recall, she had powers yes, but she was no match for the Seven Dwarfs that chase her and meant her end?" Leon slapped his forehead before changing the subject to something equally concerning.
"The answers you seek, lie just beyond these walls." Magic Mirror announced with this answer of his. "Now that you have become far more capable then before, a special reward awaits your return." The mirror explained with something good to give.
"A special reward from the Magic Mirror, now you got my attention. What is it?" Leon suddenly perks up from becoming incredibly curious. "A Special Armor? An Enchanted Accessory? A Magical Weapon? Or even a Magical Creature Familiar?" Leon knew the Magic Mirror was popular in the Disney World, so obtaining a reward from such a character is a lucky encounter.
That's when all of Leon's questions were answered by the sudden appearance of the pop-up screen. And with it announced a grand reward indeed:
-TREASURE ITEM-
*Map Of Germonia*
Info: The Kingdom of Germonia is a magical realm, ruled once by Snow White's father until his passing and was taken by her stepmother: The Queen. Beyond the castle's grounds and villages under it's watch, lie the Dark Forest home to strange and creepy creatures that lurk around. There is even the Mountain Trail where a rumors say there exist an entrance to a secret Mine filled with untold riches. There are even other creatures that lie beyond the kingdom's reach, a species of Dwarfs that one must take cautious not to cross their path and anger them. But only the bravest of warriors have ever journey to such places and only few ever return to tell the tale...
"A MAP!?" Leon shouted in both surprise and somewhat disappointment. "Sign...Well, I suppose this helps me know what to expect?" He lefts off a heavy sign, he was hoping for something more incredible. But when viewing the entire map showed where Leon explored and areas not covered: at least he'll have some advantage.
"Time is ticking, you know what must be done." Magic Mirror spoke in wanting Leon to be ready.
"You mean the Queen? Right, when she got back I was hiding, she gave off a strange red aura I never knew?" Leon rubbed his chin, trying to make sense of what was off about that Disney Villain.
"Hid it so well, no normal man can ever tell. That though now she appears weak and fragile, beware the dark powers she commands." Magic Mirror gave a forward warning of a rhyme with more riddles to solve.
"I couldn't even tell how strong she was, and she's the first Disney Villain from the animated films. I'm not even at Level 10, how much would I need to see how strong she is?" Leon asked this question very urgently: sometimes he recalls in early RPG Games there were foes to avoid because they were too powerful to face right away.
"To seek more strength, there is but one path to take." Magic Mirror began to speak his rhymes with an answer Leon needs to hear. "Go pass the dark woods, near the trails by the mountain, there you must reach the cottage where Seven Dwarfs reside. For there you may find one who's name be Snow White." Those words were like instructions on telling Leon where he needed to go.
Leon was taken by surprise in what he heard, it was a rare chance to meet the rest of the characters from Disney's Snow White film. And then a magical pop-up window appeared with this message:
-MAJOR QUEST-
*Find Your Way?*
Info: You must journey quickly, to find Princess Snow White and give whatever protection you offer. The Evil Queen is as cunning as she is powerful in the dark arts of magic. Strengthen yourself while facing obstacles, but do not delay for too long, or else the land will suffer evil from forces beyond the Evil Queen's hand.
"A Quest!? And a major one at that?" Leon raise an eyebrow from what he was given now. "But what do you mean by evil forces besides the Queen?" He asked from sensing there was more going on.
"First complete your task, then hurry back here. And soon you will come to know before a journey's start." Magic Mirror explained in rhyme of what it can only tell Leon so far.
"Sign...I give up?" Leon gave a huge sign: knowing he can't get anything else at this point. "Well, looks like I know where I must go..." He turns to prepare himself to leave. "To the Seven Dwarf's Cottage - I Must Go!" He announced forth with a little rhyme of his own.
Suddenly Leon stops himself short before having time to recall what he just said and did.
"Did I just started to speak like the Magic Mirror's rhyme?" Leon asked himself this bizarre question. "Ugh, I need to get going..." He held his head, feeling like he's starting to catch something at this time.
NEW LOCATION: COURTYARD
Leon used the new map to plot his way through the castle with much easier motion. Wasn't long before the guy reach the Courtyard area, but soon saw problems where the main gate was shut and many Brainwashed Guards were on patrol. It's one thing to fight a few at a time, but even with some magic a castle full of enemies might be too much at this time.
"Hmmm...?" Then Leon noticed what looked like an old cleaning maid in grey clothing and a dark-grey cloak with a hoodie over a silver headband. "That maid, I think I know who that is?" Leon slipped through to hid and then tap the maid's shoulder. "Gertra!?" He called the maid by her name.
"Hugh?" The one called Gertra yelped but Leon hushed her to not be noisy.
"Do not be alarm, I mean you no harm?" Leon held up his hands, trying to show he comes in peace.
"How can I trust someone who seems suspicious?" Gertra raised an eyebrow, uncertain to trust the words of a stranger she meant.
"Listen, the princess is in danger. The Queen...she knows where she is hiding." Leon tried to explain what little info he can to convince the maid.
"Snow White?" Gertra gasped upon having heard this about the young princess.
"Yes, the Huntsman was caught and imprisoned when he was fleeing the kingdom. He would have perished in the dungeon or be killed if I didn't set him free." Leon went ahead to reveal this intel: because he recalls a comic version of where Gertra and Humbert were close friends to Snow White.
"Oh, poor Humbert?" Gertra lightly held her mouth in shock: she knows the Huntsman and to be treated like that by the Queen. "What can I do to help?" She offers any aid she can for the one who help her friend.
"Can you get me outside pass the guards?" Leon asked that the maid give him aid in escaping the castle.
Gertra thought this while looking around, then gave a wave for Leon to follow. Wasn't long before Gertra was seen hauling a wagon filled with some old ragged clothes and old curtains.
"Halt!?" The first Brainwash Guard held a hand to stop the maid.
"Excuse me, can't you see I have dirty rags and curtains that need to be thrown away?" Gertra protest on explaining what she is currently doing as part of her job.
"None may enter, none may leave..." The second Brainwash Guard spoke the words to repeat without a second thought.
"Oh really, then I suppose the young man over there just slip pass your eyes?" Gertra points to the corner of where she saw someone else got pass the guards.
The Brainwashed Guards looked to the other and then immediately ran off to inspect a suspicious act. They spot a person and surround him...only to discover it was actually a straw crow stuffed with straw and wore old dirty cloths. And by the gate, Gertra opened the gate by pulling a switch as we see Leon come out from hiding under the ragged clothes pile.
"Thank you for the assistances. Sorry about some of the rags being stuff with hay and used as my double." Leon gave his thanks and apology for talking Gertra into using such a method to distract the guards.
"It's fine, but you must hurry before the guards return. Please, keep the princess safe." Gertra insist while only wishing for Snow White's safety.
Gretra was seen heading near the switch while Leon hurried on outside. Once Leon was pass the entrance, the maid closed the gate. Leon gave a firm nod before leaving the area, but during the moment a pop-up message appeared:
-Mini-Quest - Complete-
Escape The Evil Queen's Castle*
Info: You have managed to escape the castle of the Evil Queen. Your method of sneaking around and not alarming the guards is impressive. You have shown more talent on the adventurer's path that lies ahead...
REWARDS: Level-Up +1,
BONUS REWARD: Adventurer Lv.1-2 (10 Stats Bonus)
HP-10, MP-10, AGI +10, END +10, DEX +10
-UPDATE STATS-
LEON LIONHEART
Level 9
HP 70-80
MP 75-85
STR 55 (+3 & +12)
AGI 30-40
END 24-34
DEX 24-34
WIS 70
LUC 33
"I leveled up and my health and magic are fully recharged." Leon smiled from seeing the new results he's obtain show how much farther he's gotten. "Now I must hurry!" He turns to focus on what he needs to do.
Leon immediately ran to get further and further away from the castle as possible before the guards show up. Wasn't long before arriving at some flower field. Leon instantly recognize this location, it's where Snow White was picking flowers before being told by the Huntsman to run away and not return.
"Hard to believe I arrived at this spot...?" Leon muttered from remembering this place: knowing how he was afraid Snow White would be killed in this place if not for the Huntsman feeling grief to allow the princess to flea and live. "The place where Snow White ran for her life..." He looked around the flower field and on his map of the kingdom.
The scene shows where Leon is currently at, far from the castle and at the flower field. And down by the east section were woods. Leon studied the area and saw the path to travel...
"The Haunted Forest...?" Leon muttered as he looked to the general direction pass the flower field to some creepy woods: it certainly gives one a fright. "Keep it together, you're ready for this." The guy shook his head and gave a light clap to the cheeks to snap out of it. "I won't be afraid...I got this! I have to..." Leon mutters from encouraging himself to take the next step.
Leon was bringing forth his White Knight Sword and White Knight Shield, deciding to be well-armed...just in case. And soon Leon Lionheart approaches the entrance to the Haunted Woods. Taking another deep breath, Leon goes into the creepy woods, to complete his quest, and face whatever new threats lie ahead in wait...
NOTES: The Prisoner event was inspired from an unused scene story of where the Prince was imprisoned by the Evil Queen.
*On official Disney site pages, reveal that Huntsman's first name is Humbert.
*Gretra is a maid character who appeared in 'Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs' comic made by Dark Horse.
The Brainwashed Guards were inspired from 'Zelda: A Link To The Past' game, where guards were put under a dark spell to do evil.
The Wanderer's Set is an outfit worn by Eldore from White Knight's Chronicles.
*The White Knight Sword & Shield are also weapons from the same game series.
Dullahan 'The Cursed Armor' is somewhat base on the Monster Rancher version of a creature by the same name.
Well now, this was a pleasant start, and it's certainly one to get attention. In the next chapter, Leon explores the Haunted Forest and tries to get through knowing there's no real danger. Too bad that isn't entirely true when one's imagination of something scary BECOMES REAL!? And when the path to the Dwarf's Cottage is block, one must go through a shortcut through an Abandon Gem Mine. At first it's a wild ride, but not so fun when encountering a very dangerous creature lurking in the mine - a Golem...made of GEMSTONES!? How can Leon get through this and still reach Snow White? Best to wait and see, until then...enjoy...