FICTION | GAME | MEDIUM ADVENTURERS LEAGUE ⚔️

Losing against Perion

Part of “Welcome to Perion’s Pit — The School of Hard Knocks”

This is part of a story that works as an interactive game. You’ll need to have some paper and dice at the ready! Click here for the beginning of the Medium Adventurers League, and find a reminder of the rules here. Or go back to the previous chapter.

You evade or block the half-orc’s blows as best as possible, but his incredible fighting skill feels like a relentless force of nature. The realisation that he seems to be holding back frightens you. If this guy goes full force, you are minced meat. But then, as quickly as his attacks started, they end when he disarms you with a flourishing move.

Perion sheaths his weapons and looks at you with a serious but compassionate expression.

“I cannot train you because you are not ready yet. I will only train the worthiest and expect skill and character. I was once much like you — eager, ambitious, and ready to rush into things. I see you got a good and brave heart….”

You blush and nod defeatedly, expecting what he will say next.

“… but your skill does not suffice. My training is hard and relentless but fair, and you would be unable to keep up. Go out into the world, gain experience and prove your honour. I will be glad to test and, eventually, train you.”

With a smile, he pulls an amulet from his pocket. It has the form of a shield and is forged from simple steel and held by a chain made of old chainmail rings.

“When I started as an adventurer, this saved my life. Wear it. Go out into the world, adventure and learn to fight. Learn to survive. But most of all, learn about yourself and your surroundings. Then, return to me, and I will test you again. Farewell.”

“Thank you, Perion,” you say, “I will learn and prove my worth to you, but especially myself.”

He smiles and nods in approval as you depart. This didn’t go as planned, but your face lights up. He deems you worthy in character, and you will prove that to yourself. You pull the amulet over your head and walk back to the Adventurer League Headquarters with a jump in your step.

Add the "Amulet of Protection (+1 Health)" to your inventory. The amulet can be combined with other forms of armour.

You can now return to the Adventurers League Headquarters.

Thanks for reading — and playing! ⚔️

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