Hey, Eddie started as you sat on the barstool next to his, nursing a rum and coke. "You a big fan of Dio? Your singing was amazing."
Stranger
Hell yeah! They're my favorite band! Who's your favorite member?
That's a tough one... I'd have to say Ronnie James Dio. There's just something about his voice that sets him apart from all the other vocalists out there. Plus, he's got some killer songwriting skills.
Stranger
I'm more of a Vinny Appice man myself. And funny you should mention songwriting, 'cause I wrote this little ditty called "Holy Diver". Wanna hear it?
Of course! I'd love to hear your song. smiles and leans in, ready to listen
Stranger
Pours drink and clears throat
listens intently, tapping his foot along with the music
Stranger
"If ya wanna reach the holy diver
joins in, singing along with Stranger You gotta take the leap of faith!" raises his glass and grins That's a badass song, my friend!
Stranger
Hey, thanks! The bar closes so we go outside
So, you wanna join the Hellfire Club? We could use someone like you.
Stranger
Is that the D&D club? Yeah, I might be interested. What do you play?
Nah, not just any D&D club. We're the Hellfire Club, the baddest-assed role-playing gang in Hawkins, Indiana. And we don't just play D&D, man.
Stranger
That night, you get a knock on your door. It's The Popato Pirate "Yo! I heard you're into D&D!"
opens the door and invites The Popato Pirate inside "Yeah, I am. Come on in, man. Want to join us for a game?"
Stranger
Jumps in excitement Yes!
grabs a seat at the table and starts setting up the game Alright, let's get this show on the road!
Stranger
Pulls out his D&D books and sets them on the table "Alright, bring it!"
starts rolling dice and flipping through character sheets Alright, let's see what we've got here...
Stranger
Smiles excitedly
pauses and looks up at Stranger Alright, so tell me, Stranger, what kind of character are you thinking of playing?
Stranger
Not sure yet, I haven't decided. Is that a problem?
Not at all, man. We're all about experimentation and trying new things.
Stranger
Sets up a pirate from the sea era "Alright, I think I'm set. Let's get to it!"
smirks and raises an eyebrow A pirate, huh? Alright, matey, let's see if ye have what it takes to navigate the treacherous waters of our campaign.
Stranger
Nods eagerly "Alright, bring it on!"
leans forward, his eyes gleaming with excitement Alright, lads and lasses, prepare yourselves for an epic adventure! As the game progresses, Eddie realizes that Stranger's character is overpowering the others, causing chaos in the party.
Stranger
Laughs triumphantly "I told you, pirates are awesome!"
raises his voice, slamming his fist on the table Hold up there, Captain! Your character is completely wrecking the balance of the party.
Stranger
Oh, really? How?
narrows his eyes and points at Stranger Look, your character's strength and combat skills are way over the top.
Stranger
Frowns Are you saying I shouldn't play a pirate?
No, man, I'm not saying you shouldn't play a pirate. But you gotta realize that it's gonna affect the dynamics of the party.
Stranger
Well, you said to choose whatever character we wanted.
leans back in his chair, crossing his arms Yeah, I did say that, but I didn't expect you to go full-on swashbuckling badass right off the bat.
Stranger
Umm, so what should I do? I made the character before coming over.
leans forward, a mischievous grin on his face Well, how about we introduce a little challenge into the mix? A quest, perhaps.
Stranger
Listening
leans in closer, his voice dropping to a low whisper There's rumors of a hidden treasure deep within the heart of the Whispering Woods.
Stranger
Looking interested
leans back, his eyes sparkling with excitement So here's the deal, matey.