The Band of Bards

After a long and emotionally taxing week (at least for the likes of Lori,) the weekend arrived and the Loud Sisters were on their way back to Castle Greyhawk. This time, however; they went to the building together with their parents and brother. But while several of the kids were bouncing in their seats with anticipation, the elder members of the siblings still appeared uncomfortable.

When she saw the looks on each of their faces, Rita couldn't help but feel concerned. "Don't look so glum, girls" she urged kindly, "Lori...you must've had some enjoyment from the game last weekend...didn't you?" For a moment, she didn't answer; fearing that if she told the truth, it would make her feel like a dweeb.

At the same time; she knew that if she didn't answer, her mother would be quite irritated. So, she decided to go for a "middle ground" answer and softly murmur "eh...it was okay, I guess." Despite this response sounding rather unemotional, it still satisfied Lynn and Rita.

"You're lucky you even got to play, Lori" Luan grumbled with a frown, "meantime, the rest of us are stuck on the sidelines." As if on cue, the remaining six sisters sounded off in bitter agreement; asking when it would be their time to shine. "I'm sorry to say that one or two of you will have to wait just a little longer" Rita said matter-of-factly, "but...tonight, two of you will be joining in on the game."

Feeling curious, the girls asked which among them would be joining the quest; to which Lynn Sr. playfully answered with "it's a surprise." As expected, this response was met with a unanimous groan from the girls. But Lincoln quickly assured them they wouldn't have too long to wait for the "surprise."

"But there is one thing we can tell you about today's session" Rita stated, "before we start...Luna, Luan; you two will have to be fitted into your costumes." This announcement garnered mixed reactions from the two brunettes. While Luna was eager to get into her bard getup again, Luan suddenly remembered the character race she chose and frowned heavily.

"If people won't make fun of me for playing, they'll definitely laugh at my costume" she thought bitterly, "maybe...maybe Benny might think it's cute on me...I dunno."

(Scene Change: the dressing rooms at Castle Greyhawk)

After a while, the family arrived back at the "castle" and proceeded to the dressing rooms. In time; Lori, Lily, Lucy, Lana and Lola arrived at the Great Hall and greeted everyone accordingly. But right away, Lori saw that something was missing...or rather, someone.

"Wait a sec...where are Bobby and Ronnie Anne" she asked confusedly, "I know their part in the story 'ended' after we left Lemerius...but aren't they playing with us anymore?" As if sensing her confusion, Rita (while in character as Game Mistress Eliana) told Lori that she would see them again; just not for today's session. "From what Mrs. Santiago told me, the Mercado seems to be pretty busy today" Rita explained, "so, the family will need both Bobby and Ronnie Anne's help to manage it."

Though she couldn't deny the truth in her mother's words, Lori felt that Bobby's presence here helped make the game more bearable for her. But before she could dwell anymore on such thoughts, Lori suddenly heard the loud echoes of uproarious laughter coming from outside in the hall. "What's going on out here" she yelled in annoyance, "why are you cackling like a bunch of hyenas?"

While only halfway into costume; Lori made her way out the door and spotted Lana and Lola, rolling around the floor and laughing loudly. "What is going on" she demanded firmly while stomping towards them, "why are you literally laughing like a couple of..." Before she could finish her sentence, Lori took a peek into the room and saw what her sisters were going nuts over.

Inside, standing before her mirror was Luan; wearing what looked like a foam body suit that was shaped like a turtle's shell. Her face was painted green, she wore a mouthpiece over her lips (which resembled a turtle's beak) and sported some hand and footwear that resembled turtles paws. However, her gloves were actually a pair of latex monster gloves.

Such a choice for her costume would provide Luan the ability to use her fingers for any instrument playing she might do. Regardless; in the end, Luan believed that she looked and felt ridiculous in this look. "Don't look so glum, Sis" Lana said while trying to suppress a snicker, "you might have a...shell of a time tonight."

The moment this was said, a rare phenomenon occurred; not only did Luan not find the pun amusing. But for the first time in...ever, Lori actually found a pun hilarious. "Couldn't they find something more...my size" the young comedienne grumbled, "this shell is heavy on my back."

Seeing this as a genuine concern, Lori decided to make a quick trip to the costume room. When she returned, minutes later, she had in her arms another Tortle body suit. But unlike the one Luan was currently wearing, the shell of this suit was half the size; which the costume makers claimed was "the approximate size of a female Tortle's shell."

"As long as it isn't heavier than me, I don't care" Luan said bluntly, "now...help me outta this, please?!" After that request, Lori hurried over and tried her best to help free her sister from her current outfit...but to no avail. Seeing that their eldest sibling wasn't doing well on her own, Lana and Lola hurried over and took hold of the suits collar.

The girls tugged and pulled at the suit with all their strength, while Luan did all she could to push herself out the other end. They pushed and pulled, pulled and pushed for what felt like ages until finally...Luan managed to pop out. Sadly; she popped out so quickly, she was sent flying across the room like a bullet.

This resulted in Luan slamming hard against the wall. Coincidentally, the same thing happened with her three other sisters. Thankfully, not one among them was hurt...but they were still quite dizzy from the collision.

(Line Break)

After recovering from Luan's brief...wardrobe malfunction, ten minutes later; the girls hurried off to the game room, where they saw everyone eying them impatiently. "Heh...Sorry, everybody" Luan chuckled nervously, "had a little trouble...coming out of my shell earlier...get it?" Surprisingly, no one at the table groaned at her little pun.

Furthermore, a few of them admitted to having the same problem themselves; when they played Tortles. "Sorry the first suit was too large for you, dear" Mrs. Johnson said in her Agathe voice, "now...are you ladies ready to play again?" Though every other instinct in their brains told them to do otherwise, the small group of Loud Sisters nodded in reply and took their seats.

This prompted everyone else to do the same, including the Council of Game Masters. "Welcome, everyone to this week's session" Lynn greeted in his Acheron voice, "are we ready to resume the quest?" Without a moment's pause, almost everyone at the table responded with a loud and hearty "YES!"

But before they decided to begin; Benny, while speaking as his Caden Silvertongue voice, asked for Bojan to bring a round of Fairy Ale for the table. "I'll be right with ya, chief...er, I mean, milord" Flip said while trying to stay in character, "but I must attend to my ovens first to ensure all our meats for tonight's meal is well-cooked" This response seemed to please the Council and they urged him to take his time before serving them.

This gave everyone at the table the chance to continue the story from where they last left off. "With the aid of Queen Arcaena's map; you and your party, Lady Ventris, travel along the path for almost three days" Lynn Sr. explained in his Acheron voice, "as the sun sets on the fourth, you discover that your provisions are halfway empty." At first, Lola was ready to blame Lana (or Ezra) for eating away at their supplies.

But the Council was quick to point out that due to there being four of them (five counting Lupa/Lily,) it made sense that the food went so quickly. "After taking another look at the map, you discover that you have yet to reach the town labeled on the path" Rita said in her Eliana voice, "which means that would have to possibly make camp again." This news did not seem very pleasing to Lola; who proclaimed that, even though it was only in the game, she'd prefer sleeping indoors over camping out in the woods.

"Well, unless one of you wishes to go off hunting; making camp seems like your best option" Mrs. Johnson said in her Agathe voice, "and considering one of your party members is a druid, I don't foresee that happening." With all this information presented, Lori and her group realized making camp was the best thing they could do for the moment and decided upon that. "Very good...your party finds a small open space near the path to make camp" Lynn explained as Acheron, "after setting up, one of you is tasked with being the lookout while the rest of the party slumbers for a spell."

In an instant, Lucy offers to be the lookout; proclaiming that she always enjoyed the twilight hours of the day (in rather typical Goth fashion.) "What say the rest of you" inquired Lynn Sr., "do you approve of Shadow taking up the first watch?" For a moment or so, Lori and the twins remained silent; mostly due to the fact they didn't know what to say.

But after a while, they realized that this did sound like a good idea and agreed to it. "After gaining consent from your comrades, Shadow; you assume your role as the lookout while they rest" Rita said in her Eliana voice, "for much of the night, all seems quiet." This bit of news sounded pleasing to both Lori and Lana.

After having narrowly escaped an Owlbear attack and facing off against a crazy Dark Elf Warlock, they weren't quite ready for another battle. "All is quiet for an hour or so" Game Mistress Eliana explained, "but you, Shadow...something inside tells you there is a strange presence in the air." Feeling both intrigued yet...slightly afraid at the same time, Lucy decides to detect where the "strange presence" is coming from.

"At this time, dear; I'd like for you to make a Perception Check" Mrs. Johnson said in her normal voice, "to remind you; this move will help you see, smell, hear or (if you are using magic) detect any odd phenomenon around you." Lucy thanked her for the information, took hold of the dice and began to shake it vigorously. After tossing it at the table, she saw it land on its side; showing off the number "15."

"A very good roll, young Kenku" Rita murmured in her Eliana voice, "what would you like to do on your turn." After taking a moment to think, Lucy decided to sniff at the air; thinking there might be clues about the "odd presence" in the atmosphere her father spoke of. "As you sniff about, the faint scent of smoke fills your nostrils" Huggins explained in his Fastred voice, "but due to your roll...you immediately believe that it's probably the smoke from your doused campfire."

Upon hearing all this; Lori, Lana and Lola asked if any of them could smell this smoke (even though they were sleeping still.) "To know the answer, you will each need to make a Perception Check Roll" Pop-Pop said in his normal voice, "maybe, one of yours will be high enough to smell the aroma." With that, the girls took hold of their respective die and began to shake them.

But before they did, Lily let out a few soft wolf barks; as if to say she wanted to roll as well. "Of course, sweetie" Rita cried out in realization, "we're so sorry we almost forgot about you." With a soft smile on her face, Lily sighed and babbled a small amount of gibberish; which was her way of saying "I'm kinda used to it" in baby language.

Of course, everyone made sure to have someone (namely Lori) roll the die for her. If Lily got a hold of it, she might feel tempted to stick them in her mouth and no one wanted that. "Alright, everyone" Lynn said in his normal voice, "you may each make your rolls...now!"

With that signal, everyone took hold of their dice and shook them vigorously. Of course; with Lori, she had to make an extra roll for Lily's sake. At first, she thought this idea would be met with some disagreement.

"But then; she was reminded how a similar roll was made last weekend, during the battle with the Owlbears. Regardless, everyone made their rolls and crossed their fingers tight; hoping to get big numbers. "Okay, ladies; here we go" Mrs. Johnson said in her normal voice, "Ventris gains an...18, Ezra and Ursa each got a...19 and...Lupa got a Nat 20!"

This news caused the whole table to cheer, while Lily just giggled and howled like a wolf. Though she didn't quite understand why everyone was so happy; to her, seeing everyone cheer just felt so fun. "It's also worth noting that, due to Ventris' keen elf senses, she gains a plus two Proficiency Bonus" Huggins said in his Fastred voice, "which adds her roll up to...twenty-one!"

In spite of herself, Lori couldn't help but feel proud of achieving such a dice roll. After taking the time to celebrate this small success, the Council explained that while Lucy's character thought the smoke smell seemed like nothing; it felt a lot stronger for the others. "Furthermore...with Lily's natural 20, her sensitive nose tells her that the aroma is coming from somewhere close by" Huggins explained, "what would you like to do, little lady?"

Though she only understood a little of what the principal just said, Lily answered his question with a series of small yips and some sniffing sounds. While everyone thought this was adorable (which it was;) at the same time, they knew this was her way of trying to "communicate" with them. "I do believe my baby sister wishes to...'sniff out' the source of the smoke as it were" Lisa interjected, "which seems like a logical course of action to take."

After giving the idea some thought, Lori and the twins agreed to it and decided to allow Lily to act as their tracker. "After rousing yourselves from your slumber, you all follow Lupa through the forest; all while sniffing at the air ahead of you" Lynn Sr. explained in his Game Master voice, "as you draw closer...Shadow notices that her companions ears are twitching slightly." From here, he added that Ventris could hear the faint sound of voices coming from somewhere close.

"Uh-oh...this could mean bandits might be hiding out somewhere" Lana murmured worriedly, "we should get our weapons ready." Her sisters couldn't help but agree in the idea and decided to investigate the noises, all while arming themselves accordingly. "With your weapons in hand, you trudge deeper into the woods" Rita said in her Eliana voice, "in time, the voices sound a tad louder and you also hear sounds of music playing."

After hearing mentions of music, the girls' fears of there being anything dangerous in the woods didn't feel quite as strong. However, they were reminded that the singing could be coming from a group of bandits in the woods. "If that's the case, we should have our weapons and magic ready" Lucy murmured, "just to be on the safe side."

Everyone applauded the young Goth on her careful planning, even her sisters. At the same time, though; Lori still hoped that they wouldn't be subjected to another battle. "With your weapons/magic at the ready, you move in closer" Rita explained in her Eliana voice, "then, you catch sight of a campfire burning in the middle of an open glade."

Before continuing, the Loud Sisters looked around the table and saw several other players giggling and squealing softly with excitement. While the Council equally shared their anticipation, they calmly told the aforementioned group to remain silent and patient for just a bit longer. "OOOOkay...this is getting weird, dudes" Luna murmured, "what's got everybody so giddy all the sudden?"

As if sensing her confusion, Sam and Simon smiled over at her and said only two words; "you'll see." "Moving on...I'm going to ask you girls to make a quick Perception Check for us" Huggins said in his Fastred voice, "see what you can find out about the group surrounding the campfire." Without hesitation, the girls took hold of their die (even Lily) and shook them.

Surprisingly enough, each of them rolled rather high numbers; Lori gained a 22, Lucy gained an 18, Lana gained a 19 and both Lana and Lily received natural 20s. "Very impressive rolls, girls" Mrs. Johnson said in her Agathe voice, "with them, you are able to see that the group contains two humans...and several other creatures." From here; the Council revealed that a Satyr, a Tiefling and a Tortle were all sitting alongside the two humans at the campsite.

"You also notice a wagon stationed near the camp" Rita stated, "inside, you see a wide variety of musical instruments." Upon hearing this, Leni immediately assumed that the group must be a band of some kind. "Actually...you're not too far off on your assumption, young lady" Huggins said in his normal voice, "but this band is actually a band of bards."

Despite this explanation, some of the Loud Sisters started questioning why medieval musicians were in a game filled with magic and monsters. "Don't underestimate the necessity of bards, luvs" Chunk blurted out suddenly, "not only are they essential to help lighten the mood of an adventure...they also have unique powers." Despite however cool the idea sounded, a musician with magical powers; even Luna couldn't help but call "shenanigans" to it.

"Just look at your abilities on your sheet, Lunes" Sam insisted, "it's all the proof you'll need." Choosing to give her GF the benefit of a doubt, Luna looked down at the abilities spot on her character sheet. Among these was Bardic Inspiration, Song of Rest, songs that would help mezmerize her opponents and a Seduction Ballad.

"That last one is particularly handy" Simon stated, "if you're being attacked, you could use it to hypnotize your enemy into falling in love with you." Understandably, Luna questioned how using magic to make enemies fall in love with you was a good thing. "You'll understand well enough when the time comes, babe" Sam giggled while kissing Luna's cheek, "for now, we've got a game to play."

With that said, the time came for the Council to continue on with the story. "As Ventris and her company look upon the group at the campsite, Ezra notices a dragon sitting beside one of them" Lynn described in his Acheron voice, "granted...he's but a wee hatchling but still a dragon, nonetheless." From here, he added that the hatchling manages to catch a whiff of the twins' scent and starts growling softly.

"Upon hearing her companion, the Tiefling believes he has sensed danger somewhere and decides to investigate" Lynn described in his normal voice, "what will you ladies do next?" At first, Lola considered the idea of attacking the Tiefling; thinking her or her dragon might try to hurt her group first. "Even with their supposed magical abilities, what could some musicians possibly do to us" questioned Lori, "are they going to put us to sleep?"

While there was some truth in her sister's words, Lola quickly pointed out that she was more worried about the dragon than the Tiefling. "It may be a baby...but I'll bet it still bites pretty hard" she stated, "not to mention that even the smallest spark of fire it makes could be a problem." After taking her words in for consideration; Lori, Lucy and Lana understood her point.

However, they weren't entirely sure that the group of musicians was that dangerous. So, they still believed that attacking them wouldn't be a good idea. "I suggest we hide, then" Lucy murmured, "either me or Lori should perform some sort of 'Cloaking Spell' over our group."

Surprisingly, everyone in Lucy's group thought her idea sounded pretty good. However, the Council was quick to point out that using such a spell over a group of five would require a high roll. "No pressure or anything, girls" Rita stated, "just be careful with your rolls."

After this was said, Lori and Lucy took their die in hand; hoping fate would give them each a high roll. They shook and rattled the small objects in their hands several times; all while chanting "show me something good" in their heads. Then, they sent them flying halfway along the table.

"Okay...first, we'll start with Lori's roll" Pop-Pop stated, "and it looks like she got a...17." This announcement caused Lori to heave a sigh of relief, thinking that she might be safe. But then; when the time came to announce Lucy's roll, the Council announced that she got a 21.

"You also receive plus two Proficiency Bonuses to your spells" Rita reminded, "which makes Lori's roll add up to...19 and Lucy gains a 23." This bit of news seemed to please the girls; but then, as Simon slowly moved his game piece towards their hiding spot on the board...Lily started barking loudly. "Uh-oh...that is not good" Principal Huggins murmured, "even though you are invisible now, outsiders can still hear any sounds you make."

This news was met with a combination of disgruntled groans and soft hisses of displeasure. Of course, none of the girls could fully blame Lily for what she did. She was only being protective of her mistress, like any animal companion would.

"These noises not only startle the Tiefling's dragon, they also alarm the rest of the campsite group" Rita announced, "they soon start calling out to you...asking if you are friend or foe." Realizing that their cover had been...unintentionally blown, the girls decided to reveal themselves. It was here that Lori did her best to get herself into character for the scene.

"Ahem...Stay your hands, strangers" she said dramatically, "we lit...I mean, we mean you no harm." After taking a moment to shake off the odd feeling she had from saying such words, Lori waited for someone else to speak up. It was here where her father announced that one of the campers started to approach her, someone named Caden Silver-Tongue.

"Okay...first of all, what kinda name is 'Silver-Tongue'" questioned Lynn Jr., "second of all, which of you guys is that?" Without further delay, Benny rose from his seat and strummed a quick tune from his lute; capturing the interest of all the Loud Sisters (Luan especially.) "Fair greetings to you, Madam Elf" he said in a suave voice, "I am Caden Silver Tongue, leader of this small band of minstrels and jesters."

With this announcement, the Council offered the floor to Benny; allowing him and his associates to introduce their characters to the girls. "I shall start first" Sam murmured elegantly, "I am Lyra Golden-Mane, a Tiefling from the shores of Bael Turath." From here, Sam went on to say that her father fell in love with a human female; many moons ago.

"Despite being a half-demon, neither my father's appearance nor his heritage seemed to alarm my mother" Sam explained, "in time, they were married and later; they had a child...me." Soon after this, Sam began to explain Simon's character to everyone; whom she dubbed as her "familiar." "So, Simon's character is a lot like Lily's" Lucy murmured, "he's your own spirit beast companion."

In spite of this explanation, the rest of Lori's group and even Luna were confused as to how Sam gained a familiar. "Those things are mostly used by wizards and stuff, right" inquired Lana, "so...how could a bard have one?" With a soft giggle, Sam revealed that her character had two classes; a bard and a mage.

"By combining both skills, my character can bring literal magic to her music" Sam stated, "I'm talkin' sleep spells, seduction ballads, songs of healing; the works." Realizing she was getting off-track, Sam quickly got back into character and resumed her explanation on how she obtained her dragon; Xenos. "Long ago, I learned a rather unique secret from my father" Sam explained in a regal voice, "when a young mage comes of age or when their power has grown to a certain level, they are soon met by their Spirit Best."

The whole time she spoke, Luna found herself feeling utterly mesmerized. Sam's look and the way she spoke she spoke were entrancing enough. But the way she did all this with such confidence was so inspiring, it felt as though Luna was looking at a completely different girl.

At the same time, Luan was lost in her own lovestruck thoughts; when Benny's turn to speak came. "I hail from a humble corner of Waterdeep, near the illustrious Bard College of New Olamn" he began, "as a beloved entertainer of the court, I was fortunate enough to earn a place at the school; hoping to hone my own bardic abilities." As a demonstration, Benny brought out his lute and proceeded to play a sample of the traditional medieval melody; Greensleeves.

Naturally, this utterly amazed and bewitched Luan; whose face now bore a silly squiggly grin of delight. But as she felt herself ascending higher up on Cloud 9, Luan was quickly brought back down to earth by her parents clearing their throats. "Sweetie...I believe it's your turn to speak now" Rita giggled softly, "what can you tell us about your character."

For a moment or two; Luan sat in silence, trying her best to think up a good story for her character. Her first thought was to keep her intro short and casual, like how she would greet new friends. But then, Benny called for her attention and decided to offer her some advice.

"Don't be nervous, hon" he said encouragingly in his normal voice, "just imagine that you're giving a monologue or doing some improve...like when you first auditioned for the school play back in March." After she let the idea sink in; Luan took a few deep breaths, cleared her throat and began her character monologue. "Hail and well-met, travelers" she began, "I am Mituna Tengo, a roving Tortle bard."

From here, Luan described her character as a calm yet often jubilant soul, which seemed contradictory of her real world self. Unlike most of her species, Mituna was smaller (in terms of her build) and many thought she wouldn't survive long out in the world. "Most of my species are known to be six feet in stature with rather thick shells" Luan stated, "but as you can see, I am...quite small by comparison."

The description of her character's appearance seemed to satisfy most of the other players. But the rest of them wished to know Mituna on a deeper level. "We understand that your character is...as you described, 'a calm yet jubilant soul'" Mrs. Johnson said in her Agathe voice, "but what do you mean by that, exactly?"

After taking a moment to think her idea over; Luan explained that in a way, Mituna was a bit like her. "When she was young, Mituna had a habit of being quite silly and rambunctious" she explained, "she would seek out any opportunity to play a trick on others...which was ultimately got her into trouble with the Elders." This story left Luan's family completely dumbstruck, thinking that it sounded near identical to her own life.

After a moment's pause, Rita asked how Mituna came to join Caden's small group of bards. "After causing a little too much mischief amongst her people, the Elders of Mituna's tribe sent her out into the world" Luan explained, "she wasn't banished...just sent away so she could learn about how to gain proper control over her mischievous nature." At this point in her story, Luan explained how her character wandered about the land; trying to earn money with whatever skills she had just to get by.

"Alas, anyone who heard Mituna's jests felt they sounded too juvenile or...too course for their liking" she stated, "for all the little ones here, when something's 'too course...' it means her jokes sounded a little gross." This statement caused the Loud Sisters to shudder; mostly because Luan had yet again, made her character's backstory eerily similar to her own real world self. Of course; when this was brought to the attention of the Council, they said it was perfectly fine.

"Any and all players are welcome to add some of their own traits to their characters" Lynn Sr. stated, "as long as they aren't making 'carbon copy versions' of themselves." Upon hearing this explanation, Luan made a note of the idea and continued on with her intro. "In spite of the critics, Mituna continued doing what she loved" she explained, "that's when she caught the attention of Caden, who offered her to join his caravan of performers."

It was at this point where Lori and her sisters got very confused. How could Caden/Benny's group be considered a "caravan," when there were only four members of their troupe? "The answer is simple, Lady Elf" Benny said in his character voice, "while traveling with the rest of our fellow performers, there was a storm and we got separated from them."

He then went on to describe the sight of "strange red storm clouds" that appeared overhead on that day. "The lightning sparked and cracked in such a way I'd never seen before" Benny stated, "it was as if the clouds were...alive, somehow." After letting all this sink in (and shaking off the "ooglies" that shivered through their bodies,) Lori and her group huddled up and began to whisper among themselves.

"This sounds like all the other stuff that happened in each of our homes in the game" Lana murmured, "you think that Bloodstone Keep place has anything to do with it?" After giving the idea some thought, Lucy deduced that their situations could be connected. That being said, she felt they still needed to learn a little more about this band.

"What about Luna" Lucy murmured, "what can she tell us about her own character." In that moment, the young rocker experienced something she rarely ever felt; stage fright. Yes, she did experience this once or twice before...but it mostly happened when she was performing in front of people.

This time, however; Luna was playing a game alongside family and friends. So, why then was she feeling so tongue-tied all of the sudden. As she stood there like a deer caught in the headlights; Luna's brow started to sweat, her mouth went dry, her hands started shaking and she started giving out short, raspy gasps for air.

Then, just as the young pixie-cut rocker found herself on the verge of a breakdown; she suddenly felt someone's hand grip hers tightly. After briefly snapping out of her daze, Luna looked over and saw that it was Sam holding her by the hand. "It's okay, Lunes; you're among friends here" she whispered reassuringly, "just remember what we rehearsed two days ago at Ruth's house."

The other Loud Sisters were quite surprised by this revelation, proclaiming that they weren't told they could "rehearse" for the game. "Of course you can, sweeties" Albert stated, "before every session, players try to get together outside of the 'castle' and either discuss future strategies or improvise/rehearse lines of dialogue they might want to use." After letting her grandfather's words sink in, Lisa made a note to try and utilize his method during the rest of the week.

Meanwhile, Luna did her best to get calm again and think back to what she thought up for her character during rehearsal. She breathed calmly through her nose three times over and after the third, she closed her eyes and mentally recited a short yet simple mantra to herself; "don't fret...just play your set." With that thought in mind, she picked up a nearby mandolin and gave it a soft strum.

This in turn, seemed to help completely relax Luna's mind and she was now ready to continue. "Merry and good day to you, noble maids" she said elegantly, adjusting her cockney accent into a more refined one; "I am known as Yoko Spring-Stepper, I am proficient in both musical and acrobatic skills; when entertaining the public." It took all the restraint the other Loud sisters had to not laugh at Luna's character description.

As if sensing this, Mrs. Johnson said that not only could players add some of their own traits to their characters. She also added that everyone's characters weren't held back by any of their real world limits. "In other words, even if you're not acrobatically skilled outside of the game; within it, anything is possible" Lincoln said suddenly, "just as long as you have a good enough dice roll."

With that out of the way, Luna resumed giving her character intro; which included her explaining her musical abilities. "Like Master Caden, my character also received lessons at New Olamn" she stated, "she grew to love playing all manner of instruments...but her favorites are the stringed sort." It didn't take long for everyone to realize that "stringed sort" was Luna's term for stringed instruments.

Harps, mandolins, sitars, lutes; Yoko, as Luna described her, simply loved the sounds each of them made. "But as much as she loved music, she also loved the physical skills her fellow students exhibited" Luna stated, "she spent many a year learning numerous acrobatic and endurance skills that would help her in entertaining the populace." At this point, Luna asked the Council if she could give a short demonstration of her character's skills.

"It shall be so, child" Lynn said in his Acheron voice, "what sort of skill do you wish to perform?" After giving the idea some thought, Luna decided to have her character perform a few simple back-flips; just to give Lori's group a sample of her skills. "You're gonna have to roll an Acrobatics Check for that one, Lunes" Sam stated, "good luck, luv."

For a moment or two, Luna sat in silence; her face softly glowing with a red blush. But when she saw everyone staring at her, she quickly snapped back to her senses and took hold of her dice. However, instead of using one die; she was given three (to help properly level each backflip.)

"Even if one roll fails, you could still do well with the others" Lincoln said reassuringly, "so...good luck." Once more, Luna took in some breaths and recited her mantra in her head to help ease her nerves. Then, for about ten seconds; she shook and rattled the dice between her hands like mad.

Before letting them roll, Sam quickly interjected and asked if she would be allowed to help Luna; in case she fell during one of her flips. "I suppose we can allow that" Mrs. Johnson murmured, "but let us see what Luna rolls first." After that, Luna let out one final exhale and threw the dice forward.

Once she let them fly, she nibbled at her nails worriedly; hoping that she'd get at least one successful roll. After letting them fly; Luna crossed her fingers so tightly, they almost looked like lanyards. Finally, the three die ceased rolling and the Council gave each of them a close look.

"Your rolls are...20, 22 and 17" Huggins murmured, "which means two out of three of your flips happen successfully." From here; he said that after landing on the third flip, Yoko suddenly stumbles backwards and almost landed atop the fire (rear first.) "But at the near last second, Lyra Golden-Mane's tail snatches you around your waist and stops you from falling" Rita said slyly in her Eliana voice, "well done young Tiefling."

Despite however "dorky" it made her look, Sam couldn't help but bow in thanks at Mrs. Loud's praise. Meanwhile, after hearing her mother's statement; Luna's imagination suddenly kicked in and started picturing Sam's Tiefling tail coiled around her slim waist. If Luna's earlier blushing wasn't noticeable before to everyone, it certainly was now.

As expected, several other players giggled at this; including Sam and Simon. But as Luna listened more closely, she could hear them saying things like "adorable" or "she's crushin' hard." Part of her didn't really mind all this...but another part of her felt her feelings might make the game even more awkward for her.

That's when Chunk appeared beside Luna and decided to give her a friendly reminder. "Remember what happened between your sister and her mate" he whispered, "who's to say that you and Sam can't have the same thing?" Luna gasped softly under her breath, suddenly remembering how mildly flirty Bobby's character was behaving towards Lori last time.

However, she still desired a second opinion and decided to ask the Council if this was allowed. "Of course it is, honey" Lynn said in his normal voice, "in fact, romance is a good story tool for a game like this...just make sure that whatever happens in the game won't affect your real world relationship and vice-versa." Upon hearing this news, Sam couldn't help but giggle excitedly; while Luna found herself feeling rather nervous.

Then, after realizing that they were getting off-track; Sam cleared her throat and reassumed her role. But not before smiling at Luna and giving her a soft wink. "Now, where were we" murmured Huggins, "oh, yes...Lyra had just saved Yoko from almost falling into the fire." From here, the Council explained that Lori and her group found her skills to be quite impressive; despite the earlier slip.

"Okay...I look over at Caden and tell him that something about his story seemed familiar to me" Lori stated, "I tell him 'the storm clouds that caused your band to break away from your caravan...they seem identical to the sort I saw over my village." Benny, Luan, Sam and Simon all gasp in unison; trying to sound shocked by this news. "You've seen this happen before, Madam Elf" Benny asked dramatically, "then...you must know of the cause, what can you tell us?"

After taking a moment to search through her memory, Lori explained that both their situations may have been connected to the Bloodstone Keep. "What...no one's heard anything from that old place in ages" Luna said bluntly in her Yoko voice, "who or what could possibly be there that would be the cause of such odd scenarios?" Lori shook her head, saying that no one in her group knew the answer.

"We had just left the Elf land of Lemerius, where the queen gave us a map that would take us there" Lana said while trying to sound like Ezra, "she told us to stop off at a small town somewhere and then, we'd need to go east to a place called...Olwen or something." Upon hearing this news, Benny started laughing uproariously; which seemed to confuse little Lily.

"How fortuitous" he proclaimed happily, "our caravan was heading down that way, before we got separated." He then explained that once they arrived into town, the first thing they would do is help gain Ventris and her party proper transport to Olwen. "Thank you very much, Sir for your kindness" Lori said while trying to get in character, "how may we repay you for your help?"

Without a moment's pause, Luan chimed in (as Mituna) and asked if a member from Lori's group could share a jest with Benny's. "We really should've seen this coming" Lucy grumbled, "but...I suppose one of us could share at least one joke." No sooner had she said this, the rest of the table agreed to the idea as well and beckoned the group to share jest.

But unfortunately, none of them could seem to think of any such jokes; least of all, not the kind Luan was known for. But then, Lana started bouncing in her seat while waving her arm frantically; urging for someone to call on her. "Okay, sweetie, calm down" Rita said with a light giggle, "if you've got a joke, show us."

For about a minute, Lana racked her brain hard; desperate to try and think of any kind of funny joke. Then, she remembered coming across one on the first day she got dressed up in costume. With this in mind, she decided to share it with everyone else; hoping they might like it.

"Alright then...(ahem) one summer day, I spotted a satyr and a goat crossing my path" she began "I gave a whistle and exclaimed 'you there, put that mangy thing on a leash!'" Against their better judgment, both Benny and Lori's groups asked what the response was. "Much to my surprise; it was the goat that spoke to me, afterward" Lana blurted out, "he looked my way and cried out 'I tried to do it...but the blasted creature wouldn't take to it!'"

Soon after this jest was said, all appeared silent; which made Lana feel rather self-conscious. Then, all of the sudden; a soft giggle rang out from somewhere at the table. Everyone's heads turned suddenly and spotted Haiku, who was doing everything she could to keep her laughter in.

Not long after that, Liam started laughing as well and even Lana did. Before long, the whole table broke out into a soft fit of laughter. "H-H-Hey, Lana; that was pretty good" Pop-Pop chuckled, "seems like a little bit of Luan's comedic side's been rubbin' off on ya."

Luan couldn't help but blush bashfully at her grandfather's compliment. At the same time, she made a mental note to write the joke down; thinking she could use it at a future gig. Meanwhile; Benny, Sam and Simon were rolling about their chairs in laughter.

In time, everyone calmed down enough to continue the game; which involved Lori's group camping out alongside Benny's for the rest of that night. "By sunrise, you have gathered your belongings and continue your way along the path" Lynn explained in his Acheron voice, "this path then takes you up a small hill." From here; Lynn proclaimed that from this vantage point, they could see a small village down below.

"Perfect" cried Lucy with mild joy, "hopefully, there's someone there who could tell us where we need to go next." The moment she said this, the Council looked over her way with ominous looks in their eyes; which made the wee Goth's body quiver a little. "Perhaps, this place may hold the answers you seek, young Kenku" Mrs. Johnson said in her Agathe voice, "but take heed, who knows what secrets lie within this supposedly tranquil place."

After letting all this sink in, Lucy couldn't help but think that whatever was lying in wait within the village would make their earlier Owlbear encounter feel like playing with puppies by comparison.

(First AN: Aaaand I think that's a good spot to put a cliffhanger in. What sort of secrets could this mystery town hold for our heroines? Will they encounter more monsters, will their characters be able to survive and more importantly, how many more Loud Sisters will find themselves under the game's "spell?" Find out the answers to these questions and more, as the campaign continues)

(Second AN: Some of you may not enjoy the fact that the whole chapter took place within the real world. This was because I wished to show Luna and Luan's slow descent into becoming "one of the nerds;" something some of you have been waiting to see for quite a while. Rest assured, the next chapter will immediately start off in the game's world exactly where this one ended.
Just thought I'd clear that up, thanks for understanding)

(Third AN: The names of Waterdeep, Bael Turath and New Olamn that Benny's group mentioned are all real world locations from the D&D world. Waterdeep is perhaps, one of the game's most famous locations. While most of the fic's settings are all original creations by the Council of Game Masters and/or the other players, I wanted to add some familiar names into the mix)

(Fourth AN: Due to Tortle shells appearing rather big within the game's illustrations and Luan not exactly having the proper body build to wear one, I decided to make it so that female Tortles have smaller shells compared to the males. If this is wrong, I am sorry; if not, I'm happy I took a shot in the dark and it worked)

(Final AN: I'm sorry if Luna or Luan seemed a little too goofy around their lovers or if Benny and Sam seemed too flirty. I wanted to make them perform gestures towards the girls that were just the right amount of romantic. The next chapter may include some moments between them...but don't quote me on that)