[a / b / c / d / e / f / g / gif / h / hr / k / m / o / p / r / s / t / u / v / vg / w / wg] [i / ic] [r9k] [cm / hm / y] [3 / adv / an / cgl / ck / co / diy / fa / fit / hc / int / jp / lit / mlp / mu / n / po / pol / sci / soc / sp / tg / toy / trv / tv / vp / x] [rs] [status / ? / @] [Settings] [Home]
Board:  
Settings   Home
4chan
/tg/ - Traditional Games


File: 1366580785268.png-(403 KB, 610x900, Ssen_Ranseur.png)
403 KB
403 KB PNG
You are Ssen, a Lamia raised by a human Paladin who adopted you after killing the ones who birthed you. You are grown now, and Father has passed on. After a great deal of work, you have become a Paladin like your Father, and now take up his duties.

You are accompanied by your best friend from childhood, the insect druid Tricia; Mage, a magic user who ran away from his family of cannibal raiders known as the Ghouls (Yes, his name is Mage. It was his idea); Persephone, a 22-year old thief/ex-guerllia fighter (She goes by Peri), and Mari, a 13-year old prodigy scholar/now sniper, who has her mind and soul trapped within Peri's body; and Lea, a deeply religious musician/martial artist, trained by her father, a famous trainer for arena fighters, she's covered from her mouth down in bandages to hide the horrific state her body has become thanks to the 'cures' that saved her from cancer.

Your journey continues...

Opening theme song (NEW for Season 2!): http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5si7w3uS9tU

http://suptg.thisisnotatrueending.com/archive.html?tags=Lamia%20Quest

1d4 chan page: http://1d4chan.org/wiki/Quest:Lamia_Daughter_Quest
>>
You finally had a chance to sit down and speak to Ava, the female Lightbringer. You told her the truth of what was happening, and how her life had been strung along and manipulated by the Dramatae. She accepted a little of it, not because she believed you, but out of a desire to be rid of all the fighting, death, and insanity that had enveloped her life. She went outside to try and talk Adhan into listening to you. Unfortunately, while you were talking to Ava, Peace was speaking to Adhan. When Ava confronted him, Peace used a little magic and Adhan's emotional state to make him stab Ava. Adhan escaped, but you were able to keep Ava from dying on the spot, unfortunately due to complications from the wound, Ava was still dying. You found a solution, use your blood on her and Old One, the Dragon, would magically boost the Leviathan poisons within. That would burn away the Dramatae's magic that altered her body, and restore her to her earlier healthier state. There was one catch, Ava didn't want to go back to being the person she was before. She said that she'd rather risk going through a teleport portal, back to Bronze Peak, so she could be helped by Cups. You honored her decision, despite your personal misgivings, and did so. Ava survived the trip, but when she recovered, her body had suffered irreparable damage, shearing her lifespan in half, and destroying any chance of children. Ava was distraught, but some counseling from you, and focusing on a future as a possible hairdresser, has given her a little hope.
>>
Ah, what a wonderful day for lamias. Welcome back Echo.
>>
>>24383384
Old One sent you away, disappointed that you would allow someone else's opinion to matter more than your own. The only way to become the Little Dragon again, and regain his respect will be to deliver unto him the heads to the Dramatae.

Helen, the vampire, responded well to the pig blood treatment, and her lucid testimony was enough to convince Balles that she was coerced into turning. She'll still be incarcerated, but there's hope for her to be eventually cured. She also was able to reconcile with Jeremy Sandover.

Jeremy, and Quentin had also discovered something disturbing. Stone Hall was broke. The economy was a sham, hiding a total ponzi scheme that relied on Jeremy's businesses to keep making money and Jeremy to keep giving out loans freely. The pair have tried to do their best to prevent the collapse. They've opened up a bank, and have begun to foreclose on places that do nothing but drain money, provide actual loans to the places that can produce for the city, and other basic economic patch jobs. Of course, since neither of them, nor Rachel, are experts with complex numbers or forensic accounting, the process is shaky at best.

That was when Tricia got a wonderfully stupid Dawnchaser Plan. Princess Mumei, back in Stone Hall, is a numbers wiz, also the sane harpies that live on Old One's mountain have mathematical talents, as well. (Plus the physical force to enforce the new economic reforms.) The plan is to bring the two groups together, then move the harpies to Bronze Peak, just as you did with the lizard people in Stone Hall.

It's a stupid, dangerous, complicated, crazy plan that upsets the status quo and will make countless people angry and drive the ones who don't want this change straight into the arms of Citadel.

So, naturally, you're all for it.
>>
>>24383404
>also the sane harpies that live on Old One's mountain have mathematical talents, as well
Okay, before we start, are we actually sure of this?
I know Paul is like the Rain Man or some shit but Grace did say he was 'special'.
>>
>>24383404
Okay, so, things on the agenda, in no particular order.

1. have awkward conversation about dragon servant ritual with group.

2. discuss terms with paul, give him time to talk to other harpies.

3. fetch mumei.

4. Talk to trevalon one last time, to say goodbye. Buy booze first, good/strong stuff.

5. talk to robin and get him to bring us to the elf queen

6. see if anyone still wants to go to stone hall on one of our triips there

7. set up teleportation networks if feasible?

and I'm out of ideas
>>
>>24383516
I think we are not sure at all.
>>
>>24383560
We should also try and do that talking to the old god thing Quentin told us about.
Walk into a deep dark mine tunnel and listen.
>>
>>24383516
It was mentioned that all the Harpies were good with numbers. Paul's 'specialness' was more to do with the fact that he freaked out if he couldn't do maths all the time.
>>
>>24383634
oh shit, yeah! we have a day or so of recovery time, we should do that at one point. Cite meditation.
>>
>>24383516
I think we need to talk to some of the other Harpies before fully saying yes or no on this plan. Right now it's the best one we have but we just need to make we take the right steps in going about this. Thus talking to some of the ... leaders, I guess, of the Harpies to see how they act about all of this.

Oh should talk to the Balles about this too before doing anything really. Don't want to drop a ton Harpies on the poor dude with no warning.
>>
>>24383560
These, and also meeting Lord Holting, a grain baron of Citadel, and one of the Bear Tribe, possibly the last.
>>
>>24383560
So, your group is in Ted's place. You obviously have a to-do list. Let's make it the first to four becomes your top priority.
>>
>>24383755
Well, I think we should get everyone's take on what they heard with the dragon. It's our first chance to actually discuss that, now that I think about it.
>>
>>24383773
Agreed. Might as well get all the awkward Dark Peaks stuff out of the way.
>>
>>24383755
We're not in a screaming rush, for once, so:
>>24383773
seconding this.
After that, harpies, and then Stone Hall for Mumei and anything else that needs doing on the way there or back.
>>
>>24383773
Agreed.

"Now that we're not running around like a bunch of headless chicken ... so dragon, yeah, thoughts?"

Or something like that just to get the ball going.
>>
>>24383815
>>24383811
>>24383773
>>24383822

"Now that we're not running around like a bunch of headless chicken...so the stuff we said under the influence of the Dragon Who Was Of Shadow, yeah, thoughts?"

Everyone just sort of sighs and looks to the side. No one's really too keen on bringing up this topic.
>>
>>24383874
I actually meant the stuff the PHYSICAL dark peaks dragon told us, not the... shadow dark peaks dragon.

I can see how that might be confusing in retrospect.
>>
>>24383874
"They may have been exaggerated by the Shadow but there were real underlying problems and they're not going to go away by themselves."
>>
oops, ya we aren't exactly ready to discuss the deeply personall issues revealed there quite yet. and definately not in a group yet. Unless... you think we should hold Group Therapy Time
>>
>>24383905
Okay, now I'm a little lost. Are you referring to all the stuff you were all screaming at each other at the peak after the harpies?
>>
>>24383905
Actually it was clear to me. Thus why I said just dragon not who was of shadows. Blah. Okay.

Anyways ...

>>24383874
"So do we want to just ignore it or ... "

Kinda leave the question hanging ...
>>
>>24383960
We're talking about when we talked to the 'Old One' not the super evil Not!Dragon
>>
>>24383905
Yeah, likewise. I meant all the fascinating stuff we learnt from Old One. But we needed to get *this* conversation out of the way too, so we might as well.

>>24383874
"We went to Dark Peaks to learn from a Dragon; turns out we learned from two, though definitely not things we wanted to hear. But it wouldn't have hurt nearly as much if it wasn't true. Up there, we fought against it quickly and then ran, but most of the things we said aren't the kinds of things solved by fast interventions like that.

We don't have to talk about it right now, and we don't necessarily have to talk about it in a group, but we have to talk about it at some point, and soon, lest those kinds of resentments come up again the *next* time we encounter some mental-attacking reality-warping spirit."
>>
>>24383960
no, I'm personally referring to the stuff the old one said.

Apparently both me and you are confused now.
>>
>>24383989
sounds good
>>
>>24383989
>lest those kinds of resentments come up again the *next* time we encounter some mental-attacking reality-warping spirit

And by the way, isn't that just the *best* reason to talk through personal issues? We lead interesting lives, don't we?
>>
>>24383989
yeah, regardless of what I said, go with it and we can talk about the OTHER dragon after we talk about THIS dragon.

Dragon talk.
>>
>>24384046
Sounds good. "Meanwhile, on a more pleasant though still awkward note, we learned rather a lot from Old One, didn't we? We got another big lead, though we already wanted to talk to Lord Holting about his relationship to Lady Glenn and why he's pay-asking people to stay quiet about her death. But beyond that, we learned some fascinating things about dragons, and half-dragons. Right Mage?
>>
>>24383989
alternative text, if that's too long, and we want a segue into old one

"Okay, we don't have to talk about that dragon yet. We should talk about it soon, but at your own pace.

Now, as for the other dragon, the old one, thoughts, questions, opinions?"
>>
>>24384046
Dragon Talk!
>>
>>24384172
"Dragons?"

"Dragons! ...Dragons?"

"Dragons!"
>>
>>24383989
"We went to Dark Peaks to learn from a Dragon; turns out we learned from two, though definitely not things we wanted to hear. But it wouldn't have hurt nearly as much if it wasn't true. Up there, we fought against it quickly and then ran, but most of the things we said aren't the kinds of things solved by fast interventions like that.

We don't have to talk about it right now, and we don't necessarily have to talk about it in a group, but we have to talk about it at some point, and soon, lest those kinds of resentments come up again the *next* time we encounter some mental-attacking reality-warping spirit."

The group chuckles. "Sooner than we'd like, probably." Mari says.

"Meanwhile, on a more pleasant though still awkward note, we learned rather a lot from Old One, didn't we? We got another big lead, though we already wanted to talk to Lord Holting about his relationship to Lady Glenn and why he's pay-asking people to stay quiet about her death. But beyond that, we learned some fascinating things about dragons, and half-dragons. Right Mage?"

"Yeah," Mage says. "Look I had no idea that was what was happening. I just needed to get anyone's flesh to override Uncle's punishment spell. You had a piece hanging off of you already so..." He shrugs.

"So...other than I got a lifespan boost and may end up growing scales in eighty years or so...does this really change anything?" Mage asks. "I mean, if there was some extra magic transferred...I could look into it. I guess. But I have no idea, what else there is."
>>
>>24384231
"Well, we can test if it even worked. Think a quick clonk with your staff would trigger that pain feedback thing?"
>>
>>24384255
>inb4 mage dies.
>>
>>24384277
but the dragon said that it totally wasn't lethal. Unless like we ourselves were killed by them.
>>
>>24384231
"I think we'll need to talk to Grace at some point about this. See if she can share her side of the deal with the Old One. Heck, we don't even know if it really took do we?"
>>
>>24384231
"Well, there was the way your armband changed right afterward, too. Probably worth looking into, yeah. Because you needed more topics for research, right?

But we could try a little experiment right now. Here, whack me upside the head, or something."

And if something happens:

"Don't worry, Mage; I'll never think of you as a servant. You're still a brother."
>>
>>24384296

Yeah. Unless his staff goes maginuclear on us, then he'll survive.
>>
>>24384231
"Well you can test yourself if you want, though no guarantee you'll like the outcome. Just give me a mild punch or hit and we'll see!"
>>
>>24384309
"Well, there was the way your armband changed right afterward, too. Probably worth looking into, yeah. Because you needed more topics for research, right?"

"Apparently, I'll have the time." Mage says.

"But, we could try a little experiment right now. Test if it even worked. Here, whack me upside the head, or something."

"You sure?" Mage says.

"Well, we need to talk to Grace at some point about this. See if she can share her side of the deal with the Old One. Heck, we don't even know if it really took do we? This will be our test."

Mage shrugs alright. He goes up to you, looks at his staff, shakes his head. Then he winds up and slaps you across the face.

It stings, like you'd expect.

"AH!" Mage's head snaps to the side and you see a red glowing patch of skin on his face. "Okay, that hurt."

"Don't worry, Mage; I'll never think of you as a servant. You're still a brother."

"A brother who can't fight back against his crazy sister." Mage grumbles. But he's smiling as he says it. "Though this bond is fascinating, you think it's blood related or are there empathic elements involved as well?"
>>
>>24384424
>"A brother who can't fight back against his crazy sister." Mage grumbles. But he's smiling as he says it. "Though this bond is fascinating, you think it's blood related or are there empathic elements involved as well?"

Think very loudly at him: "I don't know, what do you think?" And try to feel extremely happy about it, in case words don't come through. Remember what Beacon's Light felt like.

(And if it doesn't work, be prepared to feel very silly. But how awesome would it be if it did, even a little?)
>>
>>24384424
"Who knows? I mean, I didn't even know you when it was formed. The dragon book leads me to believe that there could be something emotional to do with it, but it was talking about a two-way version of what we did."
>>
>>24384424
"Haven't a clue. Hopefully it won't do anything much."
>>
> There were 'unforeseen blessings given upon those who had the tender heart and steel heart to go through it.' and it says what was done.

I believe it's ... maybe? But we really didn't know mage back then. So who knows. Dragons.
>>
>>24384493
Maybe the emotional bond formed over time?

Regardless, there are more important things right now.
>>
>>24384575
I'm surprised nobody has any thoughts on the subject. I imagine at least meri would be interested in an extended life.

Speaking of, peri and meri are next on our dragon debriefing. Did you guys understand what the dragon meant by "liche"? How's that going to work?
>>
>>24384600
Same. I would have though Mari would be jumping down both Ssens and Mages about this topic.

Seemed like Mari did though an explanation of it would help.
>>
>>24384470
/I don't know, what do you think?/ You think as you look at him.

"Ssen? Everything okay?" Mage asks, a little confused at the weird look you're giving him.

"Never mind." You say feeling very stupid. "But, who knows? I mean, I didn't even know you when it was formed. The dragon book leads me to believe that there could be something emotional to do with it, but it was talking about a two-way version of what we did. Hopefully it wont do anything much."

"Well, you still need to transcribe that book. Then I'll start to tinker with it." Mage says.

"Okay, I'm gonna jump ahead to my bit." Mari says. "I wont go into the heavy complicated technical stuff, but the short version is that if we do a partial soul jar that contains both of our memories, then the resonance between our minds, the body we're using and the soul will be evenly divided, and yet distinct enough from each other to prevent a convergence event that would cause the ego walls to break down between us, ensuring that our own personalities can remain stable, while inter-"

"We keep our mind, body, and soul split up in different places in even portions and it keeps us stable. So we'd be a hybrid body-snatcher/liche that's not either one. It's pretty technical and complicated, but Mari says she can do it."

"That's an amazing incorrect oversimplification!" Mari snaps.

"Their eyes were glazing over." Peri says.

Mari harumps. "Fine...any questions?"
>>
>>24384424
Hypothesis: Mage desperately wanted to be more than just a Ghoul, more than a monster. Ssen wants to become a Paladin, and saw that as an ultimate goal to achieve, the epitome of being a good person, and not a monster; nobody puts a Paladin in a bag for being bad. So this Dragon Servant magic changed Mage into what he wanted to be, with some flavor taken from how Ssen thought of that.
>>
>>24384600
ah yea, I am very curious of what Mari figured out from Old Ones suggestion.
>>
>>24383560
dragon servant ritual aka making grey wardens
>>
>>24384645
"Do you have what you need to do that, and what can we do to help? We don't want you going crazy. Or...more crazy."
>>
>>24384645
"Where are you going to keep this jar so that it's safe? And do you need any help from any of us?"
>>
>>24384645
"What do you need?

"How much help will any us be in this?

"And please do be careful."
>>
>>24384664
I am 100% certain we should make the Serpentguard at some point.

>>24384645
"Well, I didn't catch most of that, but it sounds like you're not sacrificing any innocents to do it. Good enough. How hard will it be to set up the materials and procedure?"
>>
>>24384645
Well, it's your souls and you can do what you like with them.
>>
>>24384707
>Where are you going to keep this jar so that it's safe?
That's a really REALLY good question.
>>
>>24384707
we should include this question. I mean... it's a jar, right?
>>
>>24384664
>aka making grey wardens

...

Fucking hell. I had completely forgotten about that part in the game.
>>
>>24384707

"Or are you going to make it out of something besides crystallized delicateness?"
>>
>>24384746
I want to have an elite group of peacekeepers who are bonded to us and have been exposed to the perils of dark peaks without losing it. Long term goal.
>>
>>24384744
>>24384777
A soul jar doesn't need to be a literal *jar*.
>>
>>24384707
"Where are you going to keep this jar so that it's safe? And do you need any help from any of us?"

"I've got some ideas for that." Peri says. "There's plenty of old bolt holes that I know the Fey Court doesn't use any more."

"I say storing it in Jeremy's bank isn't a bad idea either."

"Also so...what do you need, and how much help will any of us be in this?"

"Keep an eye out for any gems or geodes. Uncut is better." Mari says. "Other than that, I'll need to set up an Apparatus. The device IS pretty illegal to make, since it's normally just used for making people into liches...but I think if we alter it the way I think it needs to be we can skirt by the law just enough." She says. "So, if we can liberate some focus stones, and a bunch of other Conclave stuff, we should be good."

"Alright, please do be careful." You say.

"Since when are WE associated with careful?" Peri says.

"I know what you mean. Don't worry, I wont do anything that I haven't tested and I'll make sure you're there to deal with things if they go sideways." She frowns. "Which they probably will, but that's why we have experimental rats."
>>
>>24384793
but does Ssen know that?
>>
>>24384777
"Can't you make it out of something besides crystallized delicateness?"

"Short version, no." Mari says. "Longer version goes into things like resonance, HEKA storage, and thaumatic harmonics. Gemstones are the best, but we don't need to go fancy. An ugly uncut gem I think would be more efficient than the usual stereotype of the ornate crystal."
>>
>>24384855
"And much less likely to be swiped by a certain band of Elves."
>>
>>24384855
"Got it. You've got first dibs on whatever large ugly gemstones we find."

Incidentally, that's three out of five Dawnchasers who currently have ways to extend their life nearly as much as Ssen's, and hopefully a fourth. Here's hoping we can make it five for five.
>>
>>24384855

Can you armor it with something besides crystallized delicateness?
>>
>>24384855
"...do I want to ask what HEKA stands for, or will this necessitate another wordy explanation?"
>>
>>24384901
Sadly unless Lea finds a way to meditate herself into immortality, I highly doubt she will have an extended lifespan barring Divine Intervention. Tricia's probably in the clear if she decides to stick with Ssen.
>>
>>24384804
>There's plenty of old bolt holes that I know the Fey Court doesn't use any more

There are far better places to hide a soul jar. you could bury it in solid rock a kilometer underground in a randomly selected location - maybe teleport it in, if there's some way to do that blindly, or drill a hole and repair the hole afterward; the important thing would be not to leave any traces leading there, so it's just an anonymous cubic meter somewhere in the Earth's crust.
>>
>>24384901
>>24384855
"Well, that's settled then. We'll find them as we can.

Honestly, I'm surprised you're not on me about that whole dragon lifespan thing. Guess I don't have to worry about you taking samples in my sleep, then?"

This last part is a joke, and not meant to be hurtful.
>>
>>24384982
well, we COULD always just servant bond everyone.
>>
>>24384984
That might not work for their purposes. They planned to extend past Mari's body too by looking for anyone else willing to hitch a ride. May have changed tho.
>>
>>24385004
I don't think Lea would take it even if we offered it. Sadly.
>>
>>24385004
yup, been thinking that as well... or do the entire bonding ritual instead, the 'mix of blood and tears' bit or whatever
>>
>>24384982
Just because nobody *tried* the Dragon Servant ritual with non-Servants doesn't mean it won't work. And there are almost certainly other ways.

Assuming Lea doesn't have some objection to the idea of eternal life.
>>
>>24385011
Given that this ritual is modified from the one that makes a Lich, it might already have life-extending properties.
>>
>>24385019
I didn't mean it like that. Lea doesn't like 'unnatural' magic though. Remember how she NOPE'd out of the Ghoul Magic troll blood healing back at the Fell King battle?
>>
>>24385052
And how she said the Light had given her this body and life, and such.
>>
>>24385052
And then apologized about it when she learned that everyday healing potions use troll blood too.

Similarly, while she would abhor the idea of a lich, that doesn't make all forms of eternal life immoral. Surely she doesn't think Ssen's long life is unnatural?

I'm more concerned that she wouldn't want to live forever without going to the Light.
>>
>>24385052
>>24385062
yeah. I doubt she'd accept.

But it's totally an option for our teammates. Heck, I'm debating whether or not it's our moral imperative to produce samples at as high a rate as possible for general population use. Everyone wants a longer life.

But then that would be a terrible life for ssen.
>>
>>24385078
>Heck, I'm debating whether or not it's our moral imperative to produce samples at as high a rate as possible for general population use. Everyone wants a longer life.
>general population

No.

Wait ...

Hell no. We only give to those we trust the most and at this moment it's those we travel with.

General population ... you shitting me.
>>
>>24385114
that's why I'm still debating it. Also hoping the secret doesn't get out, or that it gets out in a controlled manner.

I don't want people sneaking bits of us off while we sleep out of desperation.
>>
>>24385149
Considering we tell no one but the people in this room any of this ... yeah the problem solves it self right there.
>>
>>24384855
OK, we've talked to Mage, and Mari and Peri. We don't have much we need to talk to Lea about regarding Old One, and the conversation with Tricia should occur privately.

So: look to Tricia with a "we should talk later" look, and then suggest a trip back to Paul to talk about the harpies.
>>
>>24385177
well, for the first 70 years. And then awkward questions start being asked.
>>
>>24385149
I don't think just eating a bit of Ssen works, she has to willingly give them a bit of her flesh, not have it stolen/taken from her, else any ghoul that bit us would be bound to us.
>>
>>24385181
yeah, paul next I think.
>>
>>24385186
That don't get answered.
>>
>>24384986
>>24384977
"...do I want to ask what HEKA stands for, or will this necessitate another wordy explanation?"

"Mana, energy, chi, just another designation of the energy magical actions produce." Mari says.

"Okay, well, that's settled then. We'll find those large ugly gemstones as we can.

"Honestly, I'm surprised you're not on me about that whole dragon lifespan thing. Guess I don't have to worry about you taking samples in my sleep, then?"

Everyone tries not to look at Lea. "I was given this life, and I accept it. When my time comes, I will accept it, and go on my Journey. I have nothing but respect for those who scramble and fight and do moral methods to extend their time here, but that's not me, and you know it." She says.

"So..." Tricia says. She sighs. "I guess that just leaves you and me, huh?"

As if on cue the others go decide to find other things to do, outside.

"I, uhh, I talked to Grace when you were talking to Old One. She's actually bonded with the dragon. But, it's not...you know...like us." She sighs. "It's not quite the same as what you did with Mage." She whispers to you what the biological process is. It's pretty close to what you and Tricia have been doing already, with a little more ritual involved. Also some blood needs to be swapped, but it would be the only scenario where it's non-fatal for Tricia.

"She says that there's no mystical mental stuff like in the stories of people 'proving their true love' just...a brief 'connection' between us...and that's that. She said that it can be a little traumatic though. It's hard to touch another person's mind. It's different than what Mari and Peri have. They're living in two different rooms, we'd be together, and...that can be difficult." She sighs and takes your hand. "I do want to do this with you...but..." She fidgets. "I want to make sure that it's what we want because we're together, and not what we want because we just want it." She shakes her head. "I'm babbling."
>>
>>24385203
Great, now I have to go over every one of our ghoul fights to see if that actually happened and we didn't notice it.
>>
>>24385218
poor lea.

If you meditate yourself into a mummy, we're going to build you the BEST temple. And we'll exaggerate the fuck out of your exploits. A little. Isen will help.
>>
>>24385218
"It's okay, Trish. You're never just babbling. Anything you have to get off your chest, tell me. It's what I'm here for. As lover or Paladin, whichever you need. And you don't have to worry about all of it now, either. We have time to figure this all out."
>>
>>24385218
>"She says that there's no mystical mental stuff like in the stories of people 'proving their true love' just...a brief 'connection' between us...and that's that. She said that it can be a little traumatic though. It's hard to touch another person's mind. It's different than what Mari and Peri have. They're living in two different rooms, we'd be together, and...that can be difficult." She sighs and takes your hand. "I do want to do this with you...but..." She fidgets. "I want to make sure that it's what we want because we're together, and not what we want because we just want it." She shakes her head. "I'm babbling."

"No, I understand. Wanting to do this to live forever would be a terrible reason. I remember before we ever knew about this that you said you wanted to be with me for the rest of your life, and I'd like that too. But this is something...more. And we don't have to do it right away, or at all if you don't want to.

But until you decide if you want to be with me for the rest of *my* life...I want to ask you again, more seriously this time: would you be with me for the rest of yours?"
>>
>>24385218
"It's okay, I understand of course. There's no hurry after all, feel free to think on it as long as you want. I love you, and I'll continue to love you regardless of what you choose - I don't want you to feel pressured into this at all. That would make me feel far worse than not being bonded with you that way."
>>
>>24385218
Something else important to say, probably before anything else: "I don't think it'd be a good idea for us to try any kind of potentially traumatic connection of minds until we talk about what happened up on Dark Peaks."
>>
>>24385308
"It's okay, Trish. You're never just babbling. Anything you have to get off your chest, tell me. It's what I'm here for. As lover or Paladin, whichever you need. And you don't have to worry about all of it now, either. We have time to figure this all out."

"Heh, lucky us." Tricia says.

"Wanting to do this to live forever would be a terrible reason. I remember before we ever knew about this that you said you wanted to be with me for the rest of your life, and I'd like that too. But this is something...more. And we don't have to do it right away, or at all if you don't want to.

"But until you decide if you want to be with me for the rest of *my* life...I want to ask you again, more seriously this time: would you be with me for the rest of yours?"

Tricia looks at you. She sighs. "I'm...I'm already feeling it." She says. "My skin slightly itches some days, and things smell a little different." She sniffs. "I'm afraid. I've seen pictures of what wasp witches, crazy ones, look like after just 60 years...I don't know what kind of...thing...I'd be after 100 or 200." She sits next to you. "I know it's selfish, but...I want you a bit because I know you'll always be a monster...so you wont ever leave me because of that." She says. "I think that's why Dad moved to River's Crossing after I was born...he wanted your Father's support. I don't think he could stand raising a wasp witch, but then he's see you and your father...and he'd remember to love me again." She sighs and hugs you. "I don't want to be alone, so I stay with you because I know you'll never be really welcomed anywhere. So I know you'll always be here for me...I'm a terrible person."
>>
>>24385218
That's okay. That is... a legitimate concern. And it doesn't have to be now.

I don't really know either. It's... you really are my only soft spot. Everybody has things they aren't sure about or don't know what they should do with. Usually they come to me about them, and that's okay. I chose to be that. I can shoulder all their burdens.

But then I look at you and all of my certainty and strength just crumbles. It's a good thing though. I think. To have moments where I see how weak I really am.

*hug*

So, as long as you don't mind being my one major weakness....
>>
>>24385478
Give her a snake pout. "Well, us 'Monsters' have to stick together, right?" kiss her cheek lightly before continuing, "It's not all about how we look, but who we are and what we choose to be. You'll still be Tricia no matter what."
>>
I wonder how much that is Citadel's influence... the way it effects 'monsters' makes me suspicious
>>
>>24385478
You know I will NEVER care about how you look. I'm always going to love you, no matter who or what you are or become. And either we all get killed trying to stop Citadel, or we have decades to find a way to keep your mind YOURS.

And if it comes down to it, I'll fight for you as hard as I fought for Helen. Harder, even. And I know that it's a terrible thing to even think about, but if there really is nothing I or anyone can do to save you...

...I'll be the one to do it, when the time comes.
>>
>>24385478
"Tricia, I'll be here for you, no matter what happens. And if we have to pull a miracle to make sure you can keep your mind, or whatever you want, well, we have no shortage of crazy plans. But no matter what, you'll still be Tricia. I understand where you're coming from, not because I'm a monster, but because I know what it's like to look like one on the outside and not be one on the inside. We've run into far too many people the other way around, fair to look upon and monstrous on the inside. You don't have it in you to be a monster on the inside, Tricia. And don't you ever think for a moment that you could."

>>24385571
I like the beginning of this, but the end is just *wrong*; she never even suggested she wanted something like *that*, and we don't want to imply that we'd think she would.
>>
>>24385478
"Oh Tricia. We all don't want to be alone."
>>
>>24385556
"Well, us 'Monsters' have to stick together, right?" You kiss her on the cheek.

"You know I will NEVER care about how you look. I'm always going to love you, no matter who or what you are or become. And either we all get killed trying to stop Citadel, or we have decades to find a way to keep your mind YOURS.

"And if it comes down to it, I'll fight for you as hard as I fought for Helen. Harder, even.

"You know...you really are my only soft spot. Everybody has things they aren't sure about or don't know what they should do with. Usually they come to me about them, and that's okay. I chose to be that. I can shoulder all their burdens.

"But then I look at you and all of my certainty and strength just crumbles. It's a good thing though. I think. To have moments where I see how weak I really am.

"Anyway, even if we have to pull a miracle to make sure you can keep your mind, or whatever you want, well, we have no shortage of crazy plans. But no matter what, you'll still be Tricia. I understand where you're coming from, not because I'm a monster, but because I know what it's like to look like one on the outside and not be one on the inside. We've run into far too many people the other way around, fair to look upon and monstrous on the inside. You don't have it in you to be a monster on the inside, Tricia. And don't you ever think for a moment that you could."

Tricia just looks at you for a long while and nods. You two hold each other for a while. "I want to go dancing again. Later." She says. "Without anyone getting shot. Then, we can talk about being stuck with each other for the rest of eternity."
>>
>>24385478
"That doesn't make you a terrible person at all. It only makes you human. I was born a Lamia, and regardless of what I face, I am used to it by now. I never have to worry about things getting worse, and it was hard at times, but it's not so much, now. And I always knew I was a person worthy of life, in control of myself regardless of what others feared. The only time I wasn't, it felt like hell.

You don't have that luxury of knowing that things are never going to get worse. You don't have the comfort of knowing that you'll be you, no matter what. Being scared isn't just understandable, it's necessary - everyone would be terrified in your situation. I won't tell you not to feel bad about it, but I assure you I understand, and I don't feel slighted at all.

If you want, I'll do everything in my power to help you find out more about wasp witches, at least find out what actually happens, and if there's anything that can be done to prevent it."
>>
>>24385713
>>24385721
Aww, I was too late.
>>
>>24385713
"It's a date. And I'd very much like the not-getting-shot part as well. Though you were a nice sight to wake up to afterward."

OK, we've got another mission: learning everything we can on Wasp Witches, especially what happens when they get older and why. Hopefully it'll turn out to be much like why most Lamia act like monsters, and she doesn't necessarily have to turn out the same way if she doesn't want to.

Meanwhile, head hand-in-hand to find the others again, and figure out who is going back to Old One's foyer to meet with Paul. Sounds like three people can use the circle at once, so Ssen, Tricia, and Quentin?
>>
>>24385713
"Sounds like a date. I still haven't taken you on a proper one - last time we had no real time to prepare, and the location was hardly ideal at the time."
>>
>>24385713
"I'd love to dance. I hope you don't blame me if I bring clang along, though.

Just in case."
>>
(Question: When will we, if at all, go to the Fey Court?)
>>
>>24385848
(after we get this city sorted out. And maybe a vacation day or two in stone hall, I really hope.

Really hope.)
>>
>>24385777
"It's a date. And I'd very much like the not-getting-shot part as well. We'll have to take Clang along, as protection. Though you were a nice sight to wake up to afterward."

You walk outside, hand in had, to see the others poking about all of Ted's abandoned taxidermy pets.

"Some of these things are pretty nice." Mage says. "Take them back to the Lighthouse."

"They're tacky." Mari says. "Also, I don't like sleeping with something like this staring at me."

"Plus I don't think Ssen would like having a stuffed Lamia around to...oh, hey." Peri says. "So, next on the agenda?"
>>
>>24385865
"Well, I was thinking." Lea says. "We need Mumei, but we also need the harpies. I know it's probably not the best idea in the world, but one or two of us could go to Stone Hall and get her, wont take but two days with Lightmare. In the mean time, the others go get the harpies to come to the table."
>>
>>24385865
"How bout we ask paul if he and his friends would be interested in such a plan? It would take a while for him to spread the word and ask around. We should have quentin or sandover for that one. Maybe both. I don't know if we could bring those two into the dragon's parlor though."
>>
>>24385841
I think Tricia is going to fall in love with Clang too, the moment Clang blocks something from killing her.

>>24385848
>>24385865
Right now we have an economy to save, so we need to start talking to harpies and then bringing Mumei here. And there's plenty we might want to do while in Stone Hall, not least of which a visit with Isen and Tara.

>>24385885
"I really don't think splitting up between cities would be a good idea; we hit enough danger on the road between Stone Hall and here *before* we had three mask-wearing Dramatae actively out for our blood.

The teleport circle can carry three people safely, right? How about Tricia and I escort Quentin to visit Paul, explain the situation, and get his friends to help? I'm hoping that won't take too long. Everyone else should probably go with Jeremy to visit Balles, and tell him about the new he's about to have. Then we can meet up afterward and head to Stone Hall together."
>>
>>24385885
I really hate the idea of spiting the party.

>>24385896
Yeah we would need to either bring Paul or whoever Paul says is okay to bring to Bronze Peak to speak with them.
>>
>>24385915
>Everyone else should probably go with Jeremy to visit Balles, and tell him about the new he's about to have

new citizens he's about to have, I meant to say.
>>
>>24385885
This is a much harder decision than it sounds. It would make things more effecient here, but... I'd really like to check in on stone hall.

Maybe the person could bring that teleportation ring?

"I think I'll ask ted about how teleporting works before we send someone off. If we're lucky, we can cut the trip to and fro in half."
>>
>>24385926
>"I think I'll ask ted about how teleporting works before we send someone off. If we're lucky, we can cut the trip to and fro in half."

Can't hurt to ask, but I have the rather strong feeling that setting up a teleportation network between cities would be far too easy to actually happen to us.
>>
>>24385934
yes. far too easy.

It would probably have terrible consequences. My plan B is a message-tower system.
>>
>>24385896
>I don't know if we could bring those two into the dragon's parlor though.

We don't even know if *we're* welcome back either. But just in case Old One would take offense, we should probably go talk to Paul first ourselves, and ask him to come back and visit Quentin, sure.
>>
>>24385915
>I escort Quentin to visit Paul
>taking Quentin to the dragons lair
No no no. Bad idea. We bring Paul or who ever wants to represent the Harpies to Bronze Peak.
>>
>>24385947
Or something derived from the Whisper Flutes.
>>
>>24385950
we just go and TALK to paul for now. he can't come back yet since he is injured.

We arrange the actual talks in three or four days once we have mumei and paul has recovered some.
>>
>>24385950
Yeah, agreed. He could sense those in his lair, and we're not even sure if *we're* welcome at the moment. So yeah, let's bring Paul here.
>>
>>24385967
No idea how fast he'll recover, but if he hasn't yet, then fair enough; we'll give him a heads-up, talk to him about what it'll take to get the sane harpies to help, and plan for some future diplomacy once we have Mumei around. This seems like a really good idea in any case, since Mumei might have more idea of how to relate to birdfolk.
>>
>>24385915
"I really don't think splitting up between cities would be a good idea; we hit enough danger on the road between Stone Hall and here *before* we had three mask-wearing Dramatae actively out for our blood.

"The teleport circle can carry three people safely, right? How about Tricia and I escort Quentin to visit Paul, explain the situation, and get his friends to help? I'm hoping that won't take too long. Everyone else should probably go with Jeremy to visit Balles, and tell him about the new he's about to have. Then we can meet up afterward and head to Stone Hall together."

"We need a way to better communicate." Lea says.

"Mage, I thought you were working on Whisper Flutes."

"We need a special wood." Mage says. "Blue Apple Oak. Doesn't grow around here, super rare, you know the deal with these things. When we find one, then we're somewhere."

"HOW long is our to-do list?" Peri asks.

"Long enough." Mari sighs. "We sure taking Quentin up there is a good idea?"
>>
>>24386006
>"Long enough." Mari sighs. "We sure taking Quentin up there is a good idea?"

"Probably not, come to think of it. I'm not even sure Old One wants *us* back, after what happened with Helen. Dragons, or Little Dragons, don't get to offer choices to lesser beings, apparently. Let's limit the risk, and go visit Paul ourselves before bringing an unknown person into Old One's foyer.

So, who wants to come visit Paul, and who wants to talk to Balles?"
>>
>>24386006
"Better to bring Paul here I think, I dont think Old One would appreciate a human showing up in his lair."
>>
>>24386006
"You're right, let's just talk to Paul and set something up." You say. "Then get Mumei and come back here. Then the talks, then either the Fey Court or Holting, and by then we'll probably have another massive fire to deal with."

"Or six." Tricia says.

"Okay, so...we going right now?" Peri looks over your shoulder to Ted's house where the Teleport Circle is.
>>
>>24386006
"Mage, remind me. We're getting you a nice, thick journal for you to record all these crazy request we have for you, and so you can work at them at your own pace."
>>
>>24386038
"Yeah, sooner we get Paul in talking to his people the better."

Also : >>24386047
>>
>>24386038
"Unless someone can think of a really good reason why we shouldn't. Otherwise, let's go. Who wants to go see Balles, and who wants to visit Paul?"

>>24386047
I like this.
>>
>>24386047
"Mage, remind me. We're getting you a nice, thick journal for you to record all these crazy request we have for you, and so you can work at them at your own pace."

"I'll get one from Ambrose when we go back to the lighthouse." He says.

"Well, unless someone can think of a really good reason why we shouldn't. Otherwise, let's go. Who wants to go see Balles, and who wants to visit Paul? Also, we should be careful. I'm not even sure Old One wants *us* back, after what happened with Ava. Dragons, or Little Dragons, don't get to offer choices to lesser beings, apparently. Let's limit the risk, and go visit Paul ourselves before bringing an unknown person into Old One's foyer."

Tricia squeezes your hand. "You know I'm with you."

Mage sighs and raises his hand. "They may talk to me cause I'm a servant."

Peri/Mari and Lea both nod. "We'll got alk to Balles, also make Jeremy and Quentin aware that's it's happening so soon."

"Sounds like we have a set up for our latest Dawnchaser Plan." Tricia says. "Shall we?"
>>
Yes, lets
>>
>>24386133
Grab Tricia on one arm, Mage on the other, step into the teleport circle, and hope our luck continues to live up to the insanity of our plans.up.
>>
>>24386133
Is there any response to "shall we?"

other than "surely."?
>>
>>24386181
You, Mage, and Tricia all link arms and go into the circle. A tap from Mage's staff, and the usual slightly unpleasant shifting, and you're back in the grand hall.

Grace walks up to you blinking. "You were told by Old One to not return until you claimed the heads of the thieves. Please, go back, or we will forcibly remove you."
>>
>>24386239
"...I am sorry, Grace. It was not my intention to disturb Old One; we merely wished to talk to Paul, and I didn't know any other way to get a message to you other than waiting for the next time one of you came to town. And we really didn't have time to wait. Is there some way we could talk to Paul without violating Old One's wishes?"
>>
>>24386239
I don't think Grace understands just how little we fuck around. (We don't fuck around)
>>
>>24386239
"We wished to speak with paul. If that is still an intrusion, then we apologize and will leave your abode immediately."

Can't just break into people's houses if they ask you to leave.
>>
>>24386274
Yeah, I was kinda hoping they'd think of visiting the circle and not stepping out as kinda like standing on the threshold and knocking.

Clearly Mage needs to invent a teleport-circle doorbell.
>>
>>24386274
"We wished to speak with Paul, and I didn't know any other way to get a message to you other than waiting for the next time one of you came to town. And we really didn't have time to wait. Is there some way we could talk to Paul without violating Old One's wishes? If that is still an intrusion, then we apologize and will leave your abode immediately."

Grace lowers the carving knife. "Oh, well." She shrugs. "Paul is sleeping off the battle up there." She points up at the top of a pillar where you see Paul sleeping in a little nest. She turns away from you and walks back to the area where she and Ted are working on something.
>>
>>24386309
"Thank you, Grace. Your vigilance does you credit."

Then knock gently on the pillar, and see if Paul starts counting himself awake.
>>
>>24386309

Is there a ladder or something that allows non-winged people access to the pillar? Given how Paul was injured in the skirmish against the latest Passion, I doubt that he was in much condition to wing it up there.
>>
>>24386333
>>24386309
We might have to climb up there. We can do vertical pillars a lot better than our friends.

Also, I am curious as to what grace is working on, but too polite to check.
>>
>>24386309
Let's not make Paul move. Let's spiral crawl up the pillar and try to wake him gently by calling his name. No snake-like looming over his nest though. That would scare the poor dear.
>>
>>24386354
>>24386345
>sleeping bird
>snake looming over him
>HEY WAKE UP I HAVE A JOB FOR YOU
>bird panics and falls right off the pillar

Oh ho, that slaps me on knee
>>
>>24386345
Yeah, we can almost certainly crawl up there easiest, but...

>>24386367
This. Past promises not to eat him won't immediately come to mind when waking up with a snake looming.
>>
>>24386367
That's why we softly call his name from below.
>>
>>24386381
I say we go with the crawl-up-gently-trying-to-wake-him strategy.

Maybe knock as we go.
>>
>>24386367
"Paul wake up, it's breakfast time!"
>scaredshitlessharpy.gif
>>
>>24386396
>>24386392
>>24386381
but WHATEVER we do...

make sure to thank grace first.
>>
>>24386333
"Thank you, Grace. Your vigilance does you credit."

You spiral your way up the pillar until you just reach Paul's level, you tap him on the shoulder. He opens his eyes and looks at you.

"You are the lamia that was here before." He says. "Hello. I am very tired and wounded still from being shot with five crossbow bolts and plummeting to the ground painfully, and would wish to sleep."
>>
>>24386418
"Yes, I remember that. You did spectacularly out there in the battle, so I'll try to be brief.

Once you are better, I might have a job for you and those like you, involving making sure the count of things are accurate and true. Also a chance to meet people, and be less alone. I hope you are interested, and I've given you more to look forward to as you recover.

Get better soon."
>>
>>24386418
>"-I am very tired and wounded still from being shot with five crossbow bolts and plummeting to the ground painfully, and would wish to sleep."
Well when he says it like that I feel bad. Let's apologize, then ask him what we need to and offer to do something nice for him in Bronze Peak. Maybe set up a nice warm, cushy nest up above a smithy or a big restaurant with warm updrafts and nice smells. Dude's been through a lot of shit for us.
>>
>>24386418
"I am sorry to wake you, Paul. You were very strong in that battle, and you deserve some rest. We won't stay long.

When you're feeling better, I'd like to talk to you. We could use your help, and that of the other harpies who can think and reason as you do. The economy in Bronze Peak is collapsing, and some of my friends are trying to help, but they need a lot more help from people who are good at counting and very strong. People like you, Paul.

Would you be willing to help, and do you think the other harpies might be? Give it some thought.

We need to go to Stone Hall and back, to bring someone else to Bronze Peak to help. When we get back, could we arrange a meeting with you and with some representative of the harpies who could speak for them?"
>>
>>24386480
>Let's apologize, then ask him what we need to and offer to do something nice for him in Bronze Peak. Maybe set up a nice warm, cushy nest up above a smithy or a big restaurant with warm updrafts and nice smells

That does sound nice.
>>
>>24386506
that sounds nice... for a lamia maybe.

Harpies seem to be colder weather creatures. Maybe somewhere cooler, with a breeze.
>>
>>24386506
Above a smithy, he could count the ringing of hammer blows to calm himself or lull himself to sleep.
>>
>>24386527
Sure, whatever sounds most appealing to Paul. But it wouldn't surprise me if the harpies don't so much enjoy cold as live with it because that's where they have to live. Not like they could just take up residence in Bronze Peak, before.
>>
>>24386474
"Yes, I remember that. You did spectacularly out there in the battle, so I'll try to be brief.

"When you're feeling better, I'd like to talk to you. We could use your help, and that of the other harpies who can think and reason as you do. The economy in Bronze Peak is collapsing, and some of my friends are trying to help, but they need a lot more help from people who are good at counting and very strong. People like you, Paul.

"Would you be willing to help, and do you think the other harpies might be? Give it some thought.

"We need to go to Stone Hall and back, to bring someone else to Bronze Peak to help. When we get back, could we arrange a meeting with you and with some representative of the harpies who could speak for them?"

Paul pauses for a moment. "I will inform my brothers who are attendants to the Harpy Queen. She will agree to the talks A good place to meet would be the old forgotten Bear Shrine, because there are few people there and few harpies so that one side does not feel overwhelmed by the other."

Paul pauses. "You must be sure to offer much available food. We have been starving here for a while because there is little game, and the insane harpies take all the rest."
>>
>>24386556
Yeah, but I'm saying maybe... put him a few stories above the bakery. Not right above. Hew some houses into the roof of the city dome.
>>
>>24386572
After these messages...we'll be right back!
>>
>>24386572
"Well, then I'll have to ask what you folks like to eat, so I can secure a supply. I know I'm partial to a lot of meat, myself."
>>
>>24386593
okay. see you in an hour or so then?
>>
>>24386600
This. We don't want to insult them by bringing the wrong thing.
>>
>>24386611
"What do you MEAN all you brought was 500 tons of birdseed?

"I don't care how many flavors of birdseed there are!"
>>
probably meat, lots of meat. Rocs and dragons are NOT known for vegatarism
>>
>>24386643
>All the yelling makes Paul start counting all the different colored seeds.
>>
>>24386674
Question:

Where will the meat come from in our new monstrous-heavy demographic scheme? For near carnivores, we have lizardmen, harpies, nagas, lamias...
>>
>>24386678
goats and boars my friend. goats and boars
>>
>>24386678
Soylent Green.
.
.
I dunno, not like they aren't able to hunt if given the chance.
>>
>>24386709
but game has been scarce, and goats are well known for annihilating grazing ground when overused.
>>
>>24386725
>>24386709
if boars and hunting are legitimate sources of food, we need to develop a game commission for sensible usage of wildlife. This involves curtailing "wild" harpy hunting in areas to allow population to regenerate.

basically moving food from the mouths of wild to domestic harpies.
>>
>>24386744
alternatively, we could come up with some more economic meat or fish stock.
>>
>>24386600
"Well, then I'll have to ask what you folks like to eat, so I can secure a supply. I know I'm partial to a lot of meat, myself."

"We like meat, lots of red meat. Boars, goats, cow. We also can eat other smaller birds, and fish. Fish is liked by shore cliff harpies more, but they are very very tasty. I had fish once, and the Harpy Queen had octopus once and has insisted that we find her one, but they are very difficult to find in the mountains."
>>
>>24387277
"It just so happens that I'm going to a coastal city soon. I'll be sure to bring back fish and octopus.
>>
>>24387277
"Well, I think that's all do-able. I know stone hall has fish, at least, and red meat is pretty frequent too. I'm not promising yet, but chances are good on a stable food supply. Might all be salted and preserved, though."
>>
>>24387277
Hmmm. Stone Hall has a fair bit of fishing industry; we might be able to pick up some fish and some more exotic seafood while we're there.

"Thank you, Paul. We'll leave you to rest. We'll be heading to Stone Hall next, and we'll be gone for a few days. When we get back, how can we get in contact with you to coordinate the meeting at the Bear Shrine?"
>>
>>24387336
we can put the extra lizardman labor into fishing. they're semiacquatic.
>>
>>24387277
Well if I recall Stone Hall had pretty good fishing going for them. Maybe we can grab somethings for them there.

"Thank you, Paul. I'll keep that in mind. Would there be anything else I should know? Maybe something I shouldn't bring?"

After that; thank him again and head out.
>>
>>24387347

That might also relieve some pressure from disgruntled people being displaced from farming. Hell, if the fishermen are real pragmatic, they might even welcome the idea of aquatic workers that could make fishing a lot easier.
>>
>>24387351
>"Thank you, Paul. I'll keep that in mind. Would there be anything else I should know? Maybe something I shouldn't bring?"

Good thinking. More generally, any major etiquette mistakes we should avoid making?
>>
>>24387375
>fishmen
you mean lizardmen.
>>
we'd have to be careful about not overfishing too.
>>
>>24387393

Yes, I did. Unless there are other hitherto-unseen fishmen in Stonehall that everyone is perfectly OK with and saw no point in drawing them into conflict.
>>
>>24387404
maybe we can figure out some kind of stable fish farming method?
>>
Dragon and Troll... to rule the land. The Naga
Dragon and Leviathan... to rule the seas. The Lamia
Dragon and Roc... to rule the skies. The Harpy

Its all so clear now! They wanted intermediataries to rule through them. And instead they got the Beautiful Ones... a disapointment
>>
>>24387391
I think we can get run down of that kind of stuff when we get back. Food stuff though needs prep time.
>>
>>24387491
speaking of, didn't Ssen really enjoy that seafood place? We should try dive fishing next time we're at the coast.
>>
>>24387330
"Well, I think that's all do-able. It just so happens that I'm going to a coastal city soon. I'll be sure to bring back fish and octopus. I know stone hall has fish, at least, and red meat is pretty frequent too. I'm not promising yet, but chances are good on a stable food supply. Might all be salted and preserved, though."

Paul shrugs. "Food is food. We've been eating twigs and carrion. We can survive on very little, because we are harpies, but we are still very hungry. You must make sure that the food is not just there to be taken, or else there are those that will take it. The Queen must bow. That is important. Otherwise the harpies will just take, we will not take from a force that makes a Queen bow, for that means that the Queen has seen a threat and does not wish to fight because she knows that they will lose."

"Thank you, Paul. We'll leave you to rest. We'll be heading to Stone Hall next, and we'll be gone for a few days. When we get back, how can we get in contact with you to coordinate the meeting at the Bear Shrine?"

"You should light a fire and put in witherwood in it. It will make white smoke that smells of bleeding flesh. That will be the signal and a very pleasant way to start the meeting on pleasant terms, because the speakers will be hungry and will agree to you if they can get food."
>>
>>24387491
And the second time around they humped a few horses, getting centaurs?
>>
>>24387561
... nah, thats how they got Nightmare
>>
>>24387523
"Rest well, friend. You deserve it."

Then climb back down, thank Grace profusely, and leave through the teleport circle.
>>
>>24387561
>hump animals
>produce ruling race
Dragons, Rocs, and Trolls must all be Dawnchasers too.
>>
>>24387614
that's about right. we can brief our friends after we get back.
>>
>>24387614
>>24387523

>Queen must bow

So we must probably make her decide that this union is a good idea, and also show that we can kick her ass into next week should she ever decide to try to break it?

Sounds about par-for-the-course as far as diplomacy goes.
>>
>>24387710
it's gonna be tough. I would say we should bluster with troops, but it's going to be a neutral diplomatic situation I hope.
>>
>>24387614
"Rest well, friend. You deserve it." You say. You slighter back. "Thank you very much, Grace."

She vaguely waves at you over her shoulder. "Do not return until you can face Old One once more, or I will maim you for the insult." She says calmly.

The teleport circle is as stomach churning as usual but delivers you back to Ted's place.

"You know," Tricia says. "We should make sure that it's not dangerous in the long term to keep using those things."

"Oh, it is." Mage says. "But considering our lives, the long term effects of these things should be the least of our worries, and if we have as long term as we THINK we do, then it still doesn't matter because we should be able to weather them fine...but expect a year or two down the line with a small case of di-"

"Don't. Just, Don't." Tricia says.

Peri/Mari and Lea are waiting for you outside Occuli HQ. "So, Balles in on board...I think."

"What happened?"

"Well, he's now officially buried in as much paperwork as Paladin Avery has, if not more." Peri says. "So then we come in, and tell him the whole scenario. Turns out that Jeremy and Quentin hadn't told him the extent of how broke Bronze Peak is."

"Then we swung out with the harpy solution." Mari says. "He just stared at us with a thousand-yard gaze for a while, and now he's making new forms to fill out."

Lea shrugs. "I believe that the man is expecting us to do the heavy lifting, and we just hand him the paperwork to fill out at the end." She sighs. "He's officially over his head...so again, we're two for two in causing perfect Paladin order to shatter into a thousand pieces."
>>
>>24387827
"AND we've given a dragon a poor opinion of ourselves. We've got a lot of work ahead of us, don't we?

Though, at least we have a lead. The harpies would be willing to trade, and listen to diplomacy, if we brought them food and made their queen bow. We should ensure the seafood industry and a trade route with stone hall."
>>
>>24387827
"Di-what? Damn it I want to know."
>>
>>24387827
>"Oh, it is." Mage says. "But considering our lives, the long term effects of these things should be the least of our worries, and if we have as long term as we THINK we do, then it still doesn't matter because we should be able to weather them fine...but expect a year or two down the line with a small case of di-"

I can imagine a few ways for that sentence to end, none of them good.

> Lea shrugs. "I believe that the man is expecting us to do the heavy lifting, and we just hand him the paperwork to fill out at the end." She sighs. "He's officially over his head...so again, we're two for two in causing perfect Paladin order to shatter into a thousand pieces."

And one for one with imperfect Paladin order, but let's not talk about that.

>>24387827
"Well then, I think we have a trip to Stone Hall to plan. Do you think we should bring Quentin with us, to help explain the situation, if he can manage to be away from here for a few days?"

And also, before we leave, we might want to wander over to the Traveller's and ask for Lysander Bottom.
>>
>>24387951
Actually, I think we *need* to bring Quentin, and tell him to bring some gold, since he and Jeremy should be putting up the funds to finance this diplomacy. Octopus probably isn't cheap.
>>
>>24387951
>Lysander Bottom
>Lies and Her Bottom
OR
>Lies and Slander Bought 'Em
I feel like there is some secret there but I can't figure it out.
>>
>>24387968
jeremy could come too. One or the other. Maybe the sister whose name escapes me, if she has executive power like the other two.
>>
>>24387968
Quentin doesn't have any gold. He's a broke artist. Jeremy's the one who has money. Or at least IOUs.

>>24387951
>none of them good
Well "a small case of diarrhoea" is good. Comparatively.
>>
>>24388063
They're in business together now.
>>
>>24387951
"Well then, I think we have a trip to Stone Hall to plan. Do you think we should bring Quentin with us, to help explain the situation, if he can manage to be away from here for a few days?"

Quentin's reply: "Oh for the love of the Silent One, YES! PLEASE get me OUT of here!" He sags. "I hate dealing with this, all these numbers and numbers that hide numbers...and Jeremy keeps throwing me at anyone who's unhappy with us." He shakes his head. "And Rachel's no help at ALL, just because we're doing a bit better, she expects me to stop being an artist and devote my life to this?!" He puts the last of the ledgers into the wagon with disgust. "If I don't get out of here, I'm going to jump down a mine shaft."

What kind of a note are you leaving for 'Lysander?'
>>
>>24388079
Yeah, but the business hasn't actually made any money yet. Because people don't have any to pay them.
>>
poor guy. yes lets take Quentin with us. He can at least explain the basics and bring the money we need.
>>
>>24388156
"Quentin, do you and Jeremy have any spare funds from your partnership to help finance the alliance with the harpies? Because it's going to take a lot of clams."

As for "Lysander", I'd just like to catch him while he's still in Bronze Peak, talk to him a bit about the tiny bit of additional information we have on fae history, and figure out some way to get in touch later for a meeting and parley with the elves.
>>
>>24388156
Hmmm, wait a minute. It sounds like Quentin really *doesn't* want to stay and do this, then. Do he and Rachel perhaps want to *stay* in Stone Hall? Because we could help him there. Or does he feel like he has to get the rebuilding effort off the ground first?
>>
>>24388516
That can wait until rebuilding has really begun, I think he is just overwhelmed with paperwork right now
>>
>>24388261
"Quentin, do you and Jeremy have any spare funds from your partnership to help finance the alliance with the harpies? Because it's going to take a lot of clams."

Quentin sighs. "Technically, we actually do have a lot of money, unfortunately it's all...according to Jeremy...'Finance Money' which means that we're rich...but we have no gold." He sighs. "We do have partial ownership of the mines, and the forges, and nearly every other business here. Which we're trying to avoid," Quentin shakes his head. "Would Stone Hall take ore?"

Lea shrugs. "Maybe, but I have a question, what's the mayor of this place doing?"

"He left for Citadel two days ago." Quentin says. "One morning his place is cleaned out and he's gone. Bastard has CRAZY debt."

"Lovely, do you have ANY gold on hand?"

Quentin sighs and then looks up. "Actually, yes. I still have what you all paid me for the work on Beacon and your shield."

"Marvelous, get that." Lea says.

"I'll be right back." You say, as you go to Travellers as the others put together the wagon and Quentin's goods.

You stop at the bar and look at the tavern keeper. "I have a message for Lysander Bottom?"

"What's the message?" A dour voice says. You turn around and see an elf in casual black clothing, silver earrings, black lipstick, black eye shadow, and an infinitely bored expression. "I'm Jessie. I work for Robin...you're that Lamia who's horse we stole and gave back." She looks you up and down. "What does it feel like when you're crushing a person to death? Do they have a death rattle or a death wheeze?"
>>
.... dear gods its a goth.
>>
>>24388594
>"What's the message?" A dour voice says. You turn around and see an elf in casual black clothing, silver earrings, black lipstick, black eye shadow, and an infinitely bored expression. "I'm Jessie. I work for Robin...you're that Lamia who's horse we stole and gave back." She looks you up and down. "What does it feel like when you're crushing a person to death? Do they have a death rattle or a death wheeze?"

"Wow, you're just a master of bad first impressions, aren't you?" (Ignore the question otherwise.)

"Just tell him that we're interested in setting up a meeting with him and the fae in the future, and we have some previously unknown historical information about the Fae that he might find useful, possibly regarding Thistlebottom. How can we contact him in the future, and perhaps set up a meeting?"
>>
>>24388594
"I'm not usually listening very hard at that point."
>>
>>24388594
"no, actually they tend to lose the air from their lungs way before the- nevermind.

I just wanted to ask you guys if there was any way to easily get in contact with you other than this place, as we'll be out in stone hall for a few days securing seafood futures."
>>
>>24388594
Not sure what our planned message is but I'll speak to her question.
"I wouldn't know, it's not something I particularly take my time with nor do I do it outside of the loud chaos that is battle. It's crunchy though." awkward_Lamia_grin.gif
>>
>>24388698
I sorta like this one more than my own
>>
>>24388698
oh, we're just following up with them, checking if we can keep in touch, and making their job of spying on us WAY easier.

Don't want them to have to go out of their way and get caught trying to spy on us or anything.
>>
>>24388594
As funny as some of the responses are, I feel like we shouldn't stoop to describing how it feels to kill someone. Unless we want to interpret it another way, and describe how terrible it feels to have to take a life.
>>
>>24388594
"Like a big hug. It would be pleasant if it weren't for all the screaming. But as the lungs empty the chest only compresses more, so the screaming is usually brief. After that it's usually a silent death as the internal organs rupture and what's left of the lungs fill with fluid. No rattle, no wheeze."

Then give her the message.
>>
>>24388772
I feel like it's more awkwardssen than stooping, myself.
>>
>>24388788
I dunno, maybe I should have made it more... visceral? More horrifying? Because a cold and factual description of static crush trauma is bad enough for most people.
>>
>>24388698
"I wouldn't know, it's not something I particularly take my time with nor do I do it outside of the loud chaos that is battle. They tend to lose the air from their lungs as the chest compresses more, so the screaming is usually brei-nevermind.

"You're just a master of bad first impressions, aren't you?

"I just wanted to ask you guys if there was any way to easily get in contact with you other than this place, as we'll be out in stone hall for a few days securing seafood futures.

"We're still interested in setting up a meeting with him and the fae in the future, and we have some previously unknown historical information about the Fae that he might find useful, possibly regarding Thistlebottom. How can we contact him in the future, and perhaps set up a meeting?"

"Thistleblossom...I think." She shrugs. "Alright. I think we've still got some things to acquire here, and since all the chaos over the new bank and foreclosing, it's kind of paradise for us." She gets a dreamy smile. "You know there's been three suicides? I wonder how it felt..." She sighs. "Anyway, thanks for the information. I'll let the boss know. If you're coming back here in less than a week, we shouldn't have a problem. Busy time for people who need document to go missing or be destroyed, you know."
>>
>>24388879
"Yeah, we should be back here within a week. If nothing goes horribly wrong. So, scratch that, I have no idea when we'll be back."

Trying not to go full Paladin disapproval on his rather worshipful attitude towards death.
>>
>>24388879
hmm, that turned out a bit disjointed.

Don't be afraid to discard bits that don't work echo. I put out a lot of middling dialogue just to provide alternatives, on the off chance I'm witty.
>>
>>24388788
>>24388833
"Like a big hug. It would be pleasant if it weren't for all the screaming. But as the lungs empty the chest only compresses more, and it the lungs can't refill, so the screaming is usually brief. As more pressure is applied bones start to reach the maximum amount of "give" that they've got and either dislocate or break. Usually the ribs break along the midshaft or break away from the sternum. All that bone normally lacerates arteries or internal organs. If it doesn't the pressure usually causes embolisms and burst blood vessels, which floods what is left of the lungs."

"The worst part is that all this happens so quickly that barring a sudden spike in pressure around the brain, the victim remains conscious for most of the experience."
>>
>>24388918
It's a her.

It's the necrophilic girlfriend of that one elf that wanted to kill us at the start, and suggested trying to capture us with a dreaded bag.
>>
>>24388918
She's the necrophiliac one. Remember the conversation about 'cold bodies'?
>>
>>24388879
"You know, I can't say I approve of all that destroying of documents. Oh well, I'll have new accountants in here in a week to undo whatever you do now."
>>
>>24388918
"You know, I can't say I approve of all that destroying of documents. Oh well, I'll have new accountants in here in a week to undo whatever you do now."

She shrugs. "Just don't ask us to steal them back, or to give you our client list. Robin has his professional image, and you haven't saved his life again, so...yeah."

"Anyway, we should be back here within a week. If nothing goes horribly wrong. So, scratch that, I have no idea when we'll be back."

"Okay." She says. "I have to go, Ryan's trying to rewrite his manifesto again, and he can't spell for shit."

These are Robin's 'best' people...hoo boy.

You go back outside, to find that the others and Quentin have the wagon hitched up to Nightmare and are ready and raring to go.

"I cannot wait to see Stone Hall again." Tricia says as you get in, and Lea gets Lightmare moving. "The sun, the ocean, no more fungal lights, no more stupid mountains, and no evil spirits slowly melting your brain."

"Evil what now...oh never mind." Quentin says. "The less I hear of your lives, the happier I am."

"Ssen, can I take some time to see Sophie when we arrive?" Mage asks. "I mean, before we go running off to the next crazy as hell thing we do?"
>>
>>24389145
"Absolutely. We have to arrange an improved fishing economy while we're there, as well as putting out whatever fires Isen's seen fit to sit back and enjoy. And maybe, if we're all very lucky and there's a small miracle, we can have another day off."
>>
>>24389145
"I don't see why not.

"We'll be there for a few days I imagine.

"Just don't let her brother catch you in the act."

Okay maybe the last part was too much. Eh.
>>
>>24389145
oh, echo, do we know when trevalon is being executed?

I'd like to talk to him once more before then. Goodbye drink and all.
>>
>>24389145
"Sure, It will probably take us a few days to get everything ready."
>>
>>24389145
"Of course. You still have to give her the staff you found, right?"
OH BOY THE IMPLICATIONS
>>
>>24389289
Seconding this, if only because it's funny to see Mage blush.

>>24389202
And this, because what's a trip without a Dawnchaser plan?
>>
>>24389359
I hope "A Dawnchaser Plan" becomes a saying for a really, really, really bad idea in the future. Like, a common proverb for people around the countryside to say.
>>
>>24389235
>oh, echo, do we know when trevalon is being executed?
It's been put on the back burner, what with everything else going insane. He's locked up tighter than Helen is though, so he isn't going anywhere.

>>24389202
"I don't see why not. We have to arrange an improved fishing economy while we're there, as well as putting out whatever fires Isen's seen fit to sit back and enjoy. And maybe, if we're all very lucky and there's a small miracle, we can have another day off."

"Thanks."

"No problem, you still have that gift to give her, right? Just don't let her brother catch you." You say.

"He really needs to relax." Mage says.

"He's working with Isen." Lea says.

"I'm dead."

Roll 1d20 for the day and a half trip to Stone Hall.
>>
>>24389289
Give her the Staff.
>>
>>24389407
dice 1d20
>>
Rolled 20

>>24389407
>>
Rolled 15

>>24389407
>>24389437

HORRY SHET
>>
Rolled 14

>>24389407

/TG/ DICE, WE OFFER YOU THIS POST AS SACRIFICE FOR GOOD FORTUNE!
>>
Rolled 9

>>24389407
what harm could a simple die roll do?
>>
Rolled 14

>>24389425
Okay.. Maybe a few too many shots tonight.
>>
>>24389437
For one brief moment I was happy...and then I remembered about travel rolls.

Now I'm very afraid.
>>
>>24389448
Yeah. We're fucked.
>>
>>24389437
>>24389448
oh yeah, travel rolls! I forgot!

We find a CORRUPTED DRAGON! roll initiative!
>>
>>24389448
... Dear mother of god Old One is coming to kill us.
>>
>>24389437
oh no...
>>
>>24389468
>>24389473
nonono

Ssen got dysentary! lose 5 days!
>>
File: 1366601718681.jpg-(54 KB, 485x333, image.jpg)
54 KB
54 KB JPG
>>24389473
OH YEAH!
>>
>>24389437
You are shaken awake by Lea when you're resting for the night. "We have a problem." She says.

"What problem?" Tricia asks.

"Four Passions." Lea says. "Also they might have set a fire in the woods, so we're pretty much trapped. They have a magic user with them. Mage and Peri are keeping them busy with covering fire, but we're going to roast alive unless we take these bastards out, and get out of here.

"Can't we just jump into the wagon and run off with Lightmare?"

"See that thing that looks like a wagon wheel that's been blow to pieces?"

"Oh...great."

"Yes, so please, uncoil from each other, get your weapons and FIGHT damn it!"

"In our night clothes?"

"We asked them if they'd wait for us to get properly dressed, but they're kind of impatient to see us dead!"
>>
>>24389597
son of a bitch, 4 Passions?!

To Arms!
>>
>>24389597
grab clang'n'beacon. if they're in covering fire, and we're in nightclothes, that means we can sneak right up and shank them.
>>
>>24389597
Grab Clang and Beacon, and haul tail.
>>
>>24389597
"How rude of them."
Let's do this shit.
>>
>>24389597

Clang & Beacon their faces off
>>
"Can't even use their masks..."

Show up, and ask them if they could've sent in any /other/ dramatae to face us.
>>
Rolled 6, 5, 8, 9, 9, 2, 8, 8 = 55

>>24389642
"How rude of them." You say as you grab Clang and Beacon, and Tricia gets her sickle. (She always has her hat.) "To arms!"

"DIE! DEFILER OF PARADISE!" The Passions charge.

Roll 1d10 for initiative. (Quentin is hiding under the overturned wagon, he's not a factor in this fight.)
>>
Rolled 5

>>24389678
>>
Rolled 8

>>24389678
>>
>>24389678
"Surrender or die!"

Also stab someone.

In whichever order, really.
>>
Rolled 6

>>24389678

Really hoping those first four rolls are for us.
>>
File: 1366602459814.gif-(751 KB, 200x141, 1365660029755.gif)
751 KB
751 KB GIF
>>24389597
>Four Passions
>>
>>24389710
I wonder what happens when they try to drain each other's life.
>>
Rolled 6, 3, 20, 14, 9 = 52

>>24389689
Lea jumps into the fray, she's trying to get to the passion with a scepter of red marble stone, but a Passion with a sword gets in her way, she replies with a kick.

The Passion with the blade replies with an attack.

Mari shoots at the magic user.

The Passion with a bow shoots at you.

The Mage begins to chant and his staff starts to glow.

Tricia whips off her hat and starts to chant in return.
>>
>>24389830

I hope that 20 was for Mari
>>
>>24389860
I think it was.
>>
>>24389860
It is.
>>
>>24389830
Mari's bolt nails the mage right in the throat. He gags in pain and the scepter loses his glow.

Tricia's hat just glows a little.

Your turn.
>>
>>24389883
There's two with swords, one with a bow, and the magic user.
>>
>>24389883
We had bad luck with bows last time. Let's take out the bow-user first, with a wrap.
>>
>>24389883
Stab some shit with Beacon. Whichever Passion is closest. Let's get some charges.
>>
>>24389883
>>24389902
Help kill the mage.

Double strike. If we're in range.
>>
>>24389883
were we hit by that bow shot? was it CLANG'd?

Either way, let's go after the bowman, as I don't want to get in the middle of a wizard duel. I'm feeling feisty, who wants to try a wrap?
>>
>>24389883
stab and tailwhip the bow passion
>>
>>24389883
Impale Archer with Beacon. We don't trust archers after what they did to Paul.
>>
>>24389902
Do we recognize anything about any of the four of them, by the way?
>>
>>24389934
we have a LOT of bad experiences with archers.

The ghouls.

The ball.

Paul.
>>
>>24389952
I'm sure we will once we unmask 'em.
>>
Rolled 5

>>24389934
>>24389933
>>24389921
Okay, you'll have to try and get past the other swordsman who's running interference.

Roll 1d20
>>
>>24389967
There are advantages to knowing ahead of time.

For instance, I don't suppose any of them are the butcher and his family from the Stone Hall Trail?
>>
>>24390004
can we shoot the archer and tailwhip a swordsman then?
>>
Rolled 1

>>24390004
>>
Rolled 16

>>24390004
>>
Rolled 11

>>24390004
>>
>>24390015
good job, /tg/ dice.
>>
>>24390015
Yeah this is great start ...
>>
>>24389883
Second this.
>>24389883
Impale Archer with Beacon. We don't trust archers after what they did to Paul
>>
>>24390015
Where's my you_died.gif at ...
>>
>>24390015
Nope you can't get by him. You have to face the swordsman first.

Your action?
>>
>>24390070
Double strike one of the swordsman.
>>
>>24390070
stab the swordsman first, then. Also, maybe tell them to surrender.

They won't, but it's a good habit to make.
>>
>>24390070
Wrap the swordsman, in the hopes of taking him out in one action.
>>
>>24390070
wrap swordsman and bow shot the archer?
>>
>>24390095
>They attack us first
>Ask them to surrender

Nah. If someone lives after the end of this. Then maybe ask. Not before.
>>
>>24390101
there's not enough opponents for beacon charge to be viable here, so it's a chance to use our natural weapons. Wrapping is as good as stabbing here.
>>
>>24390117
I said -tell-.

If we -tell- enough people to surrender, and kill them when they don't, people will start surrendering. In theory.
>>
>>24390128
Exactly. By the time we've gotten it charged, the battle will be over. Just take everyone out fast.

>>24390116
We can't wrap and bow at the same time. We can tail attack and bow at the same time, but I'd rather wrap one of them completely out of the battle in one move.
>>
>>24390128
>>24390116
>>24390101

You try to wrap the Passion swords man.

Roll 1d20
>>
Rolled 12

>>24390169
>>
Rolled 19

>>24390169
>>
>>24390173
I think that might be exactly enough for a hit, if I remember correctly and bonuses haven't changed. I doubt I do.
>>
Rolled 8

>>24390169
>>
>>24390185
http://pastebin.com/RABMH9ub
Constrict on 12, Pull free on 16+
>>
Rolled 6

>>24390169
>>
>>24390169
Assuming we succeed, and it doesn't break free, pull off its mask before we decide what to do with it.
>>
looking over possible actions, the double sweep would have been prefect for getting the swordsman out of the way so we could rush the archer.

oh well.
>>
Rolled 12, 6, 18, 20, 14, 1, 19, 15 = 105

>>24390173
You manage to get your coils around the Passion.

Mage blasts a lightning bolt at the magic user.

The swords person you have constrained tries to break free.

Lea fights the swordsman that she's been dealing with.

He counters.

Mari shoots at the Mage again.

The Archer shoots at you once more.

The Mage tries to begin chanting again.

Tricia keeps up her spell casting as well.
>>
>>24390343
a... mixed round. Pretty good on average!
>>
>>24390343
>20 to counter

Ouch.
>>
>>24390343
did the archer just shoot himself in the foot?
>>
>>24390378
No. The knee.
>>
>>24390374
just be glad we took the 2nd swordsman off of lea.
>>
>>24390378
Better yet, shot one of the other Passions in the back.
>>
ooh we can Bow + Constrict next action, so shoot the archer and jelly the swordsman
>>
>>24390408
uh... can we? I don't know if we can
>>
>>24390408
That's if we have our bow with us. Echo said we only grab clang and beacon so who knows. Had a GM do this to me once.
>>
>>24390343
Mage and Mari both hit, causing the magic user to stagger back and halts his chanting.

Lea's punch connects, but the warrior lets out a massive stab and Lea screams as the blade digs into her side. Without her armor or bandages it hurts like a bitch and bleeds quite a bit.

The archer pulls his bow string back, and the bowstring snaps.

The swordsman you've got struggles in vain, but you've got him tightly and are not letting go.

Tricia's hat pours out a mass of hornets. She sends them towards the Warrior that Lea is fighting.

Your turn

(No, bow/constrict is not an option. Also choosing to constrict not an instant kill for a Passion, you'll need to do it twice with another escape chance.)
>>
>>24390420
thought we could, we did specifically train to use our tail + shoot in the same action, up to Echo though, dont know if tail action is ANY tail action or just tail whip
>>
>>24390465
Let's not be cute. Just crush him for two turns.
>>
>>24390465
Pull off the Passion's mask, first, then decide whether to immediately constrict.
>>
>>24390465
Squeeze him! Squeeze him like a fat grape!

Then feel guilty about enjoying that later on.
>>
>>24390465
whelp that answers that, constrict.

perhaps we can learn how to from someone at a later time then.
>>
>>24390491
We're in a middle of fight with are friends lives on the line. No.
>>
>>24390491
>>24390497
>>24390465
can we squeeze AND take off the mask at the same time?
>>
>>24390507
Only if it doesn't lose time. I just want to know who it is, because if any of these passions have some semblance of human left in them we might be able to use it to our advantage.

>>24390515
I'm fine with this.
>>
>>24390524
No. Not likely at all. Consider the last two Passions. So I'm putting those odds at zero chance.
>>
>>24390558
Might be the butcher and his family, though, and they were pretty borderline.
>>
>>24390575
I hope it turns out we have no idea who this prick is.
>>
>>24390575
Not really, petty hateful people and if they picked up the Mask of Passion. They deserve nothing less than a quick kill.

We can find out after the fight.
>>
>>24390604
I would be thrilled with that outcome.
>>
Rolled 1

>>24390465
Continue to constrict, we can find out who it is later.
>>
>>24390575
Guilty later, kill now. Do we really want to die trying to 'save' them when they've already given up on themselves? We had them free of Citadel. Their choices were their own.
>>
>>24390575
if they are far enough gone to become a Passion I don't think there is anything we can do to save them.
>>
>>24390630
Just suggesting we pull off the mask, which by the way would also decrease their powers, and we can hopefully doing it *while* crushing them the first of two times.
>>
>>24390630
>>24390650
Ding ding ding.
>>
>>24390628
Sorry forgot to remove the dice.
>>
>>24390676
whatever, I don't care as long as we squeeze while doing it.
>>
>>24390465
So that bowman now a swordsman(3)?
>>
Rolled 20, 20, 15, 20, 20 = 95

>>24390515
>>24390524
>>24390491

You rip off the mask as you squeeze your coils. You don't recognize the face, then it ages a little as the Passion Mask's magic wears off, and it looks more familiar. You do remember this guy. He's that zealot that tried to keep Lea in the Cathedral, praying to Citadel for days on end.

Then, the man's body suddenly gives and instead of the resistance that you felt the man's ribcage is smashed to pieces and he chokes up a mass of blood and slumps down dead.

No Passion Mask means no youth, no skill, no resilience, and no way to stop your deadly embrace.

Mage shoots another lighting bolt at the magic user.

Lea continues to fight the swordsman she was dealing with.

The swordsman is dealing with Tricia's swarm.

Mari shoots at the magic user again.

The archer has to restring his bow.

The mage tries to actually get through at least ONE part of his chant.

Tricia tries to command her swarm to begin to sting.
>>
>>24390719
All those 20s
>>
>>24390719
Whoops, I forgot to take my dice back from Echo.
>>
>>24390719
.... holy fuck

the only one he didn't get a 20 was the swordsman
>>
>>24390719
>You do remember this guy. He's that zealot that tried to keep Lea in the Cathedral, praying to Citadel for days on end.

Excellent.

>No Passion Mask means no youth, no skill, no resilience, and no way to stop your deadly embrace.

Double excellent.
>>
>>24390719
Everybody dies!
>>
>>24390719
holy hell... impromptu Beacon blessing!
>>
20 for Mage

20 for Lea

15 for Mari

20 for Magic User

20 for Tricia

Right?
>>
>>24390778
pretty much
>>
>>24390778
Crush a passion, receive a blessing.

Blood sacrifice works. I mean, citadel runs on it.
>>
>>24390719
Passion Masks give Combat Skill too? Ugh. They really can throw them on anyone.
>>
>>24390817
we should start collecting them. I bet we can juice them for some kind of magic concentrate.
>>
>>24390805
We dont want to go down that path, we are trying to dfeat Citadel not replace it.
>>
>>24390845
This *is* the first intact one we have, I think. We should at least poke at it, to see what powers it and how we can make it stop.
>>
>>24390854
Look, sorry it's apparently an intrinsic property of the universe to favor bloody affairs.

It'll come in handy in combat, though.
>>
>>24390845
If I recall right they're corrupted. So I don't think we want them.
>>
Rolled 4, 12, 17, 12, 14 = 59

>>24390719
Mari's bolt hits the magic user in the chest, which does a little damage, and them Mage's lightning bolt causes the other passion's head, but not the mask, to burst into bloody chunks.

Lea does a triple pressure point punch into the Passion she's fighting, and a spin kick that causes a LOUD crack, and Tricia manages to get bees to go inside the Passion mask and sting his face. He screams scratching at the porcelain of his 'face' to no avail.

Your turn!
>>
>>24390878
seems the one fighting lea is well in hand. She does good work.

What's the archer doing? running?

catch him.
>>
>>24390878
Go after the archer and use beacon.
>>
>>24390878
If we have a clear path to the archer, run up and wrap him.
>>
>>24390878
tail whip the mage and stab the BEES guy
>>
charge the last archer and stab + tail whip him.
>>
>>24390910
Lea always does good work. If she wasn't around half these fights would have ended poorly.
>>
>>24390936
Lea's like our Grace. Durable, quiet, and carries a big can of kickass.
>>
>>24390936
she's just so good at killing people. Thank goodness we can channel it to positive uses.
>>
>>24390878
I think we've got a pretty clear consensus on the archer, just not on what to do with him.

I'd say a quick wrap/unmask/crush, rather than repeated attacks of other forms, personally.
>>
Yeah, so it's the archer. But what do you want to do with him?
>>
>>24391038
I can get behind that.
>>
>>24391056
I bow to consensus on wrap + unmask
>>
>>24391056
>>24391038
still feeling saucy enough to wrap?

Go for it then.
>>
>>24391038
Seconded.
>>
>>24391084
>>24391078
>>24391061
>>24391038

1d20, you have to wrap and his struggle is 16+ to break free and 12+ to keep you from taking his mask. (The first guy had a struggle of 6)
>>
Rolled 16

>>24391120
no problem big guy. Citadel will destroy my confidence.
>>
Rolled 1

>>24391120
>>
Rolled 10, 13, 17, 19 = 59

>>24391143
You snag the archer.

Mage shoots at the last fighter.

Lea goes for a throat punch.

The fighter is too busy screaming in pain and being stung.

Mari shoots at the fighter.

The archer struggles to break free.
>>
>>24391207
Oh well. Let's try again next round.
>>
aw pity, he broke free
>>
>>24391207
that passion is using some serious monkey strength here. I bet because he really, really doesn't want to be crushed to death. probably it.
>>
>>24391239
nah, I'm pretty sure he'll be alone then so we should just kill him
>>
Rolled 11

>>24391207
Mage misses, but Lea connects with a blow that snaps the Passion's chin up, exposing his neck so that Mari's bolt sinks right into it. The Passion drops to the ground choking and gasping on his own blood, and then goes still.

The archer breaks free and scrambles away, he pauses when he realizes that their own fire ambush has gotten HIM trapped too.

Tricia attempts to sic the bees on him.
>>
Rolled 4

>>24391271
Tricia just manages to keep control of her swarm to send them over to bother the archer.

Your turn.
>>
>>24391253
That's what we're trying to do; do you see a more efficient means of doing so?
>>
>>24391271
so, who wants to figure out where the passion was recruited from?

Or is it not worth it?
>>
>>24391283
I'd opt for another wrap attempt, but on the other hand we could double-attack him and let the others finish him off. Either way works.
>>
>>24391283
go for another constrict, we might as well as its the most efficient way to kill them.
>>
>>24391283
Be a big scary Lamia and bodyblock him between self and flames. Stab with Beacon while he panicks.
>>
>>24391300
pretty sure they are just grabbing people that hate us and going want to get some payback
>>
>>24391284
dogpile him, everyone elses opponant is dead

>>24391271
stab with beacon then throw him into the fire with our tail.
>>
Ssen's good nightgown:

Be used to crush several goons.

Never be the same again.
>>
Rolled 7, 1, 3, 13 = 24

>>24391315
>>24391325
>>24391334

"GET HIM!" You scream. A mass assault of blows, blasts, bolts, bees, beacon, and bitch-tail slap.

Roll 2d20 +20
>>
Rolled 7, 6 = 13

>>24391374
>>
Rolled 20, 7 + 20 = 47

>>24391374
>>
Rolled 6, 14 = 20

>>24391374
>>
Rolled 4, 5 = 9

>>24391374
>>
>>24391374
That should be +2 sorry

Also, only Tricia keeps her focus, and MAge's staff shorts out.
>>
whiff
>>
>>24391334
>stab with beacon then throw him into the fire with our tail.
We're not throwing any more enemies where we're sure they couldn't possibly survive. Remember the *last* Passion?
>>
File: 1366607115898.gif-(1.93 MB, 550x367, dexterslabpapiwrab.gif)
1.93 MB
1.93 MB GIF
>>24391374

>dose rolls
>>
Rolled 12, 19 + 20 = 51

>>24391374
>>
>>24391406
You miss as he flails and drops to the ground in pain.

"PLEASE!" He screams. "CALL THEM OFF! CALL THEM OFF!" He tosses his bow away and rolls on the ground with the bees all over him. "I SURRENDER!"

The others look at you. "Your call."
>>
>>24391454
weapons trained on him
"Take off the mask, Now."
>>
>>24391454
"Remove your mask."
>>
>>24391476
This.

After all, *that* many misses must be divine intervention, right?
>>
>>24391454
"He'll live then. Well, for now."

Now do we want to use him to send a message to the dramatae, or to execute him legally?
>>
>>24391522
get the location of the Dramatae manor from him. I bet they have LOTS of goodes.
>>
>>24391476
"Take off the mask, Now." You say.

He all but rips off the mask, and his body does the usual shift from being in the prime physical condition to the slightly-overweight, older, non-combatant that they are. He's still shrieking in pain as Tricia's swarm harries him.

Do not make Nicholas Cage joke. You're better than that. Do not make Nicholas Cage joke. You're better than that. Do not make Nicholas Cage joke. You're better than that.
>>
>>24391558
"Go ahead and call off the swarm Tricia."
>>
>>24391558

Do we recognize him?

"Sigh. Tricia, call them off."
>>
>>24391558
BEEEEES
>>
>>24391558
"Tricia, call of the bees.

Mister attacker, disarm yourself completely. We will then search and bind you as we repair our conveyance. The amount of hidden weapons we find on your person will determine what we do with you.
>>
File: 1366607890621.png-(Spoiler Image, 59 KB, 954x407)
Spoiler Image, 59 KB
59 KB PNG
>>24391558
I was thinking of something completely different.
>>
>>24391595
You sigh. "Tricia, call them off."

Tricia takes off her hat and the bees fly back inside. She pops it back on her head.

Mage looks at her. "Lea is without a doubt the normal one, now." He goes to use his magic to put out the fires.

"Disarm yourself completely. We will then search and bind you as we repair our conveyance. The amount of hidden weapons we find on your person will determine what we do with you." You say.

The Passion just whimpers.

"Is it over?" Quentin asks.

"Yeah, see if you can fix the wheel." Tricia says.

"Anyone recognize him?" Peri says.

"Or this one?" Mari says as she takes off the mask of the other dead Passion.

"I think I saw them at the Citadel Cathedral." Lea says as she ties up the man after she searches him. "He's clean, just a blade and arrows."

"Not a fucking coin on any of them." Peri snarls. "Cheapskates!"

"Please...don't kill me." The man gasps.
>>
>>24391791
"Who recruited you, how long ago, and how did you get here? Also what have they given you to track us?"
>>
>>24391853
This.
>>
>>24391791
Get some ropes around his arms, cufflike.

"You leave me with few options. If I return you to the law, a case of attacking a paladin willfully will generally result in execution. I could send you back with a message to your masters, suggesting they stop throwing away pawns like this, but you'd just go back to working with them.

So, maybe tell me why you attacked me, where you attacked from, why and where you joined them, and we'll see if we can come up with any other ways out of this."
>>
>>24391791
You have surrendered to a Paladin in battle and are therefore protected by us. Neither myself nor my companions shall harm you unless you give us reason to.

So. What illusions did they sell you? What threats, lies, or empty promises sent you here?
>>
>>24391791
We won't, we WILL take you with us to Stone Hall and hand you over for trial though. What was your reason for attacking us?
>>
>>24391791
>Citadel rolls a nat 20 to give us a deadly hurdle on our trip.
>Only succeeds in handing us a hostage/informant on a silver platter.
>>
>>24391791
Also, take broken masks as trophies for the Old One, because heads smell bad after a while.
>>
>>24392023
He only wants the big 3. And only their heads at that.
>>
>>24392012
Citadel muses "Damn you just can't get good evil henchmen these days."
>>
>>24391791
When we do get to Stone Hall, we'll have to greet Paladin Avery by asking if this is going to be a regular thing, us getting attacked each time we visit his city and having a prisoner for him.
>>
>>24392118
Was there ever such a thing as good 'evil henchmen' because they all seem to fail no matter the story.
>>
>>24392052
This would be like a down payment.
>>
>>24392147
One that he doesn't want.
>>
>>24392147
no no no, we aren't giving him these yet. MAYBE when we have the heads.
>>
>>24391853
"You have surrendered to a Paladin in battle and are therefore protected by us. Neither myself nor my companions shall harm you unless you give us reason to." You bind his arms and legs with rope and make sure he can't get free.

"However, you leave me with few options. If I return you to the law, a case of attacking a Paladin willfully will generally result in execution. I could send you back with a message to your masters, suggesting they stop throwing away pawns like this, but you'd just go back to working with them.

"So, maybe you should answer some of my questions. Who recruited you, how long ago, and what illusions did they sell you?"

"The Blessed Ones, they came to us weeks ago and told us what was the cause of Citadel's trouble." He says. "They said that they knew you'd be going back to that city of sin and corruption from Bronze Peak, since your vile work was done there. We rode here and we've been waiting."

"How many others are there?" Lea says. "How many of you turned your back on His Light and all that the Teachings stand for? Tell me!" She snaps. She's in Angry Lea mode now.

He takes a breath and it looks like he's rallied his courage. "We are the true faithful. We who see even clearer that Her Illuminated Self. It is trough us that we shall preserve our City of Paradise." The archer says. "They said that you think you're doing the right thing, but please...listen to me, you are doing nothing but spreading darkness and death, and Citadel is suffering for it. Please..." He says. "You have souls, you spared me, please look away from the Darkness that surrounds you and come back to His Light."

Lea glares at the man. She throws up her hands and goes to help Quentin.

"Wow." Peri says. "Be glad buddy, Lea can hit you so hard your brain will explode out the back of your skull."

"Please Paladin Serpent, you are supposed to be on the side of what is right. You haven't seen what you're doing to the people of Citadel...you must stop."
>>
>>24392154
Hell he even said he doesn't want the passion mask when offered one to him.
>>
>>24392163
"What's happening in Citadel?"
Not that we'll stop. We knew bad shit would happen. Just interested to know what sort of bad shit exactly is starting off the list.
>>
>>24392163
"I am not deaf to the plight of citadel. Tell me what is troubling it, and I will work to ease that. "
>>
>>24392257
This is not bad; might get some useful information out of him.
>>
>>24392283
also; the truth.
>>
>>24392163
The ones who told you this are cannibals, murderers and use vampires to further their goals. They have advocated the execution of innocent men and tried to kill a Newgate. You are the one who followed the Darkness.
>>
>>24392163
"You have not seen what Citadel does to its own people. However I am not blind to the suffering of others, tell me what troubles the people of Citadel and I may be able to help."
>>
>>24392163
"I have pretty good idea what it's doing. Yet it is the only way to combat the darkness I fight.

"The ones that spoke to you lie, manipulate, and to spread a darkness that cannot been seen by the many.

"Yet here you are claiming to fight for His Light? You have been blinded but the darkness they have spread."
>>
>>24392338
>and to spread a darkness
>and spread a darkness

woo.
>>
>>24392163
"It's not a matter of dead innocents, nor is it a matter of hurt feelings. This is about a very simple choice. Do you want to be a free pauper, or an enslaved king? In other words, guaranteed happiness or the ability to determine your own course in life. There is no right or wrong answer to the question. Neither is good or evil.

My answer to that question was self determination. Freedom. I'll stop at nothing to secure that right for myself and my loved ones. Others can either stand with me, or forfeit themselves to Citadel."
>>
>>24392308
I like this as a followup after we get whatever we can out of him. If anything will get through to him, this would. Make it clear that his Blessed Ones might claim to support Citadel, but that he might not like their idea of "at any cost".
>>
>>24392363
It's not baad but... it needs a closing line. Something to tie it together.
>>
>>24392363
"The first one who wore this mask that I encountered served the same master as you, he turned three girls into vampires and had them feast on innocents, even children, before sending them to kill me."
>>
We have an idea what's happening in Citadel. Remember? Half of it will fall into the ocean because once Citadel withdraws, Reality will ensue. And Reality doesn't turn a blind eye to bullshit architecture, pyramid economics, or everyday hardships. It IS going to get rough. It is getting rough as we speak.

To steal a line from Vetinari, good guys are great at overthrowing evil kingdoms. Not so great at building better ones.
>>
>>24392435
>To steal a line from Vetinari, good guys are great at overthrowing evil kingdoms. Not so great at building better ones.

That's what our friends are for, though. We've kinda made a habit of it already.
>>
>>24392435
We know but there isn't anything that's going to stop us from freeing these people who unknowingly turn their backs on His Light.

There will be a lot of pieces to pick up after this is done. Not everyone will be happy. But we're not going to stop or going away after it's done.

Whatever happens. Happens.
>>
>>24392225
"What's happening in Citadel? I am not deaf to the plights of the people there. Tell me what is troubling them, and I will work to ease them. "

"The Darkness, it's gripping hold of people." The man says. "There are arguments every day in the cloisters about the natures of the Teachings. We even discovered that in one room there was nothing but corpses, people who had been in there so long int heir devotion that they died!" He says. "Thefts, robberies, and there was a fire in the west emerald district. People died! Also, the day I left with the other Pilgrims, it was overcast and raining, inside Citadel! The Newgates have stopped the nightly balls, and now two of them go out into the market and talk about how THEY should be next in line for the throne. People have picked sides and are fighting. The arena's been shut down, and there's been...outbreaks...in the Paper Lantern district." He shakes his head. "This is because of the poison that you are spreading. Please, stop your dark magics, stop these unholy rituals, and stop ruining everything for everyone else! People don't know what to do in Citadel...things aren't supposed to be difficult like this! It's not fair."
>>
>>24392435
This will be such a hollow victory... at our moment of triumph the world will be plunged into misery and turmoil.
>>
>>24392163
"The ones who told you this orchestrated a massive assault on a city full of innocents as part of a ritualized sacrifice. They are perverters of truth, masters of lies, orchestrators of suffering, and spinners of dark plots and conspiracies."

"That is the truth behind Citadel. That is how your 'City of Paradise' really works."
>>
>>24392509
yes. we're awful at basically everything except for hunting, crushing people, and crazy plans. We have a group of esteemed advisors and aides who assist us in all perviews of life.

which is why I say we need a scribe.
>>
>>24392520
"Welcome to reality."
>>
>>24392520
"Citadel is not the center of the universe. Citadel is merely a very small part in the grand scheme of things."
Boop his nose gently with a finger.
"You, everyone you know, and the entirety of Citadel could die tomorrow and the universe wouldn't notice at all."
>>
>>24392570
>WOULD YOU LIKE TO BECOME THE VILLAIN? Y/N
N
>>
>>24392520
"I would- but I am performing no dark magics. No unholy rituals. All I am doing is preventing a boy from being used as a blood sacrifice to citadel. You say you want me to stop the rituals? That is what I am doing."
>>
>>24392520
"It RAINED in Citadel? You're blaming ME for the WEATHER? Seriously, you need to open your eyes and use your brain. The people who told you that we're responsible for all this are responsible for sacking an entire city, and you try to kill A PALADIN AND HER COMPANIONS BECAUSE IT RAINED!?"
>>
>>24392520
(plus
>>24392619
>>24392566
>>24392423
)
>"The Darkness, it's gripping hold of people." The man says. "There are arguments every day in the cloisters about the natures of the Teachings. We even discovered that in one room there was nothing but corpses, people who had been in there so long int heir devotion that they died!" He says. "Thefts, robberies, and there was a fire in the west emerald district. People died! Also, the day I left with the other Pilgrims, it was overcast and raining, inside Citadel! The Newgates have stopped the nightly balls, and now two of them go out into the market and talk about how THEY should be next in line for the throne. People have picked sides and are fighting. The arena's been shut down, and there's been...outbreaks...in the Paper Lantern district." He shakes his head. "This is because of the poison that you are spreading. Please, stop your dark magics, stop these unholy rituals, and stop ruining everything for everyone else! People don't know what to do in Citadel...things aren't supposed to be difficult like this! It's not fair."

"There is a balance. Debate about the Teachings, rain and overcast days, balls not happening every day, people not fighting in an arena; that kind of thing is normal in a city that doesn't come out of a storybook fantasy. Welcome to reality.

As for the worst of it, people aren't used to not knowing what to do, because they never had the choice before; Citadel chose for them, and handed them everything on a platter.

Once people get used to thinking again, they'll get better at it, and things will balance out.

But do you know what your so-called Blessed Ones are doing to try to preserve Citadel? They're trying to get a boy to sacrifice himself to re-enact the Lightbringer stories, just to pacify Citadel. The last one they gave the Passion mask to turned three girls into vampires and had them feast on innocents, even children, before sending them to kill me. That's too high a price."
>>
>>24392652
Heh. I love this.
>>
I think we are going to have ot talk to Isen about his family when we get back

Also, wow Citadel is throwing a tantrum a bit earlier then I expected... its only been three months since the Stone Hall sacrifice failed.
>>
>>24392566
To tack on.

"That is how life is. Life is hard. Life is a challenge. Those that cannot cut it end up thrown to the way side, sadly. People are not always truthful, they do lie, steal, and kill. There are those that want to take advantage of others foolishness. To rally to causes that might not be just.

"Yet, for all that ... good can come from it. Cultures can grow through debates ... people are not dying needlessly in the arenas ... and besides who doesn't love the smell after a good rain shower."
>>
>>24392652
Rain gets you wet, bro. It's terrible.
>>
>>24392695
see, it's past citadel feeding time.

The main character was supposed to be an invincible badass and moral pillar by now. He's just... so fucked up after the stabbing his girlfriend incident, he'd taste awful.
>>
>>24392676
I figure some shits need to be flipped every once in a while.
>>
>>24392695
It just means we're doing are jobs extremely well.
>>
>>24392652
"It RAINED in Citadel? You're blaming ME for the WEATHER? Seriously, you need to open your eyes and use your brain. The people who told you that we're responsible for all this are responsible for sacking an entire city, and you try to kill A PALADIN AND HER COMPANIONS BECAUSE IT RAINED!?"

Tricia puts a hand on your shoulder. "Deep breaths." She says.

You take one and nod as she removes her hand.

"There is a balance. Debate about the Teachings, rain and overcast days, balls not happening every day, people not fighting in an arena; that kind of thing is normal in a city that doesn't come out of a storybook fantasy. Welcome to reality.

"As for the worst of it, people aren't used to not knowing what to do, because they never had the choice before; Citadel chose for them, and handed them everything on a platter.

"Once people get used to thinking again, they'll get better at it, and things will balance out.

"But do you know what your so-called Blessed Ones are doing to try to preserve Citadel? They're trying to get a boy to sacrifice himself to re-enact the Lightbringer stories, just to pacify Citadel. The last one they gave the Passion mask to turned three girls into vampires and had them feast on innocents, even children, before sending them to kill me. That's too high a price."

You shake your head.

"Because it rained...that is how life is. Life is hard. Life is a challenge. Life RAINS every once in a while! Those that cannot cut it end up thrown to the way side, sadly. People are not always truthful, they do lie, steal, and kill. There are those that want to take advantage of others foolishness. To rally to causes that might not be just.

"Yet, for all that ... good can come from it. Cultures can grow through debates ... people are not dying needlessly in the arenas ... and besides who doesn't love the smell after a good rain shower."

The pilgrim shakes his head. "Just as they said. You're too convinced that you're the hero."
>>
>>24392715
Maybe we should find a way to explain to Citadel WHY its meal is late, and try to convince it that watching things unfold on their own is probably WAY more amusing than hearing the same old story again.

I mean, a little rain in Citadel and everyone loses their minds.
>>
>>24392750
"I'm not convinced I'm some hero. A hero would find a to save everyone and I cannot do that.

"I'm a Paladin. Simple as that."
>>
>>24392750
"Can the same not be said of you? Do either of us give the other's point of view any thought beyond dismissing it? But that's war. There's no time for considering the opposition."
>>
>>24392750

"And you're too convinced that a life of bread and circuses is worth any amount of blood spilled. Yet you still profess that *you* are the ones who follow the Light?

You sir, are a blasphemer AND a fraud."
>>
>>24392816
Man, if you were writing villain dialogue it'd be PERFECT but we're trying to be the good guy.
>>
>>24392750
"I'm not a hero. I'm a paladin."
>>
>>24392750
"Certain? Are you mad? I've not been sure about anything I've done since before I got to citadel! If one of you passionites popped out and gave me a real good argument, or proposition to settle affairs, that would do more for your group than any number of these assassination attempts.

I'll consider what you've said though. Things are going much too fast, and solutions haven't been found yet. Have we come up with any ideas on what we can do with you that doesn't end up with you dying by our hands serving the dramatae or by the hands of the law in an execution?"
>>
>>24392750
"I'm no hero. Never was, never will be. I'm just the one that, Light permitting, will let the heroes come later. REAL heroes, and not puppets in some perverted fantasy."

"As it should be."
>>
>>24392750
>The pilgrim shakes his head. "Just as they said. You're too convinced that you're the hero."

"You didn't even hear a word I said, did you?

Tell me something. Is there a price you'd consider too high, too much to keep Citadel going along as it has? Is there anything you wouldn't sacrifice on its altar?"
>>
>>24392808
>find a
>find a way

Bloody hell i need to reread this stuff before posting.
>>
>>24392850
I'm sorry Anon, I'm in villain mode right now.
>>
>>24392894
Eh. Paladins can be the villain at times.
>>
>>24392750
"They. Let me guess, they each wore masks, one of Peace, one of Tragedy, and one of Comedy."

"Look with your own eyes instead of blindly listening to others."
>>
>>24392772
I was thinking of using this guy as a messenger. Tell the dramatae that they should really try bargaining, or working on a new way.
>>
>>24392894
>>24392949
I've been pretty sure we're the villain for a while.

I feel really bad about it.
>>
>>24392955
Nah. After what this guy has said. Throw into the jails at Stone Hall.

Attacked us because it rained. My god.
>>
>>24392972
Sometimes you need to play the villain to save people from themselves.
>>
>>24392955
That's so dumb it COULD work, assuming they don't just kill him, and Peace isn't as much of a bitch as we're thinking she might be.
>>
>>24392976
Yeah, this guy is going in jail, and almost certainly not going to get out alive. At this point I think we're just practicing our arguments on him; I don't think there's much chance of him listening, but it can't hurt to hear how the Passions are programmed.
>>
>>24392862
"Certain? Are you mad? I've not been sure about anything I've done since before I got to Citadel! If one of you Passionites popped out and gave me a real good argument, or proposition to settle affairs, that would do more for your group than any number of these assassination attempts."

You sigh and look at the man.

"You didn't even hear a word I said, did you?

"Tell me something. Is there a price you'd consider too high, too much to keep Citadel going along as it has? Is there anything you wouldn't sacrifice on its altar?""

"Citadel is worth EVERYTHING. It's worth fighting for!" He says. "Please...be a hero for the right reasons, just gi-"

"I'm not a hero. Never was, never will be. I'm just the one that, Light permitting, will let the heroes come later. REAL heroes, and not puppets in some perverted fantasy.

"As it should be." You say. "I'm just a Paladin."

The Pilgrim shakes his head. "Then spare me the time and humiliation of dragging me through your corrupted city and tainted courts. Kill me here with my brothers, and let you never forget that your 'better future' was built upon blood and death."
>>
>>24393021
I don't think we should discount all his arguments entirely. I mean, there's plagues and inadequate sewage control in citadel. That's something to be fixed.
>>
>>24392997
Sounds like villain logic to me.
>>
>>24393049
"No."

and drag his ass to Stone Hall for imprisonment/trial/execution.
>>
>>24393049
"No, I'd rather shame and humiliate you."
>>
>>24393049
"Not better. Different. All of this is so tomorrow can be different from today. I apologize we disagree so fervently. Would you like me to relay any messages to kin or a lover for you?"
>>
>>24393049
"No. You'll be taken to Stone Hall and placed in jail.

"Someone gag him so he doesn't bite his tongue or something as stupid."
>>
>>24393089
>>24393092

I'm sorry, we're all out of dignified storybook deaths. We still have plenty of involuntary time-outs in dungeons though, will that be OK?
>>
>>24393103
I want this to lead into this speech at some point

"Citadel could be worse. It could be a whole lot worse. It could be terrible. But... it could be better.

And I'm an optimist."
>>
>>24393049
(and >>24392847)
"Don't tempt me. But thank you for an update on the status of Citadel. I don't want to see it collapse any more than you do, though I won't cry over the loss of the bread and circuses.

>>24393129
>I'm sorry, we're all out of dignified storybook deaths. We still have plenty of involuntary time-outs in dungeons though, will that be OK?
Heh.
>>
>>24393049
Citadel itself is built on blood and death. I'm just trying to stop that.
>>
>>24393049
"If I killed you now, it would serve no purpose. Go to your masters, the ones who plot the sacrifice and slaughter that feed Citadel, and tell them this: I would be willing to talk if they would be willing to NOT try murdering me and my friends for once. That we'll never find a way to stop the death and bloodshed unless we TRY."

"Go and tell them that."
>>
>>24393193
Sounds nice, except it involves releasing this Passion, which...no.
>>
>>24393209
but sending minions back with messages to their master is a time honored storybook maneuver

AKA will totally work on citadel
>>
>>24393224
And how will you feel later if this Passion kills more people?
>>
>>24393235
that they had their chance, and not release any further passions.
>>
>>24393116
>>24393103
>>24393089
>>24393137
These.
>>
>>24393049
>"I'm not a hero. Never was, never will be."
>http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v6xbZ45qBnY
WE SNAKE NOW.
>>
>>24393292
Oh god whoever thought of that line to say I love you so much right now
>>
>>24393224
Yeah, no. We're breaking the story not continuing its stupidy.
>>
>>24393292
Ssen has always been snake.

Snake... Snake had a hard life.
>>
>>24393317
And it's only getting harder from here on.
>>
>>24393306
I'm just happy two of my suggestions have been used in one night: bitching about the weather and the MGS reference.
>>
>>24393312
>stupidy
>stupidity

I ... fuck it. I'm going to bed.
>>
>>24393332
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lO8jcem2qC4&feature=player_detailpage#t=434s
>mage_explaining_what_happened_to_Ssen_to_SSsen's_child.jpg

I have foretold the epilogue.
>>
>>24393103
"Not better. Different. All of this is so tomorrow can be different from today. I apologize we disagree so fervently. Would you like me to relay any messages to kin or a lover for you?"

The Pilgrim just looks away. He's shut down.

"Okay." Lea says. "Wagon's ready. So, we're taking another one home with us?"

"Look like that." Tricia says.

"Alright," Lea goes up to the Pilgrim. "I do not tolerate any insults, blasphemy, or poor behavior from our prisoners." She says. Then she decks the man and he falls to the ground unconscious. "And that's how I ensure it."

"Lea's the normal one?" Peri asks Mage.

"Relatively." Mage says shrugging.

You get back on the road, giving up any hope for sleep. You reach Stone Hall a little after dawn. The place still looks the same, it's only been a few days after all, but there's a new feeling in the air. That tension has left, it's pretty clear that there are anti-lizard people areas, but the city is moving along. Also, there's a new kind of market. People are hawking all sorts of new...gadgets for lack of a better word. New ways to get clean, new ways to clean your house, new ways to fish, new ways to hunt, most of them look like they can't possibly work, but damn if they don't look amusing.

You go to the manor, to throw the Pilgrim to the cell. Avery is there, he looks better than you saw him last, mostly because his staff has increased, and that he's given up any pretense of holding the old order, and now just wants to manage the flow of the new one.

Also at the manor is Lord Isen, he's directing the painting of a mural. The subject of the mural, is naturally him.

"No, no, no." He says. "I can't be TOUCHING the light beams of the sun. I don't want people to see this and thing 'Gosh that guy was such a prick that he thought he could hold the sun.' I want to be REACHING for the sun REACHING for the Light. I want future generations to look upon me, and my never ending effort and be...endlessly inspired...by ME."
>>
>>24393512
Hey Isen, we met someone with a bigger ego than you.
>>
>>24393512
Laugh. Just laugh. My god, it's good to see Isen again.
>>
>>24393512
"I hope this isn't what you've been doing since I got back." Chuckle.
>>
Since the thread will be gone when I get back to a computer:

Things with citadel seems to be moving at rollercoaster pace. To save the populace of the city itself will/would require extensive work on the infrastructure. Unfortunately that's something we cant really do when it still has a grip on things. It's a serious catch 22. cant destroy citadel until we've saved the people and cant save the people until we've destroyed citadel. Even the idea of trying to convert the entity to the light would likely be too dangerous until it's weakened beyond the point of collapse. Tricky business.

So, purified lantern coins thing. Hearing a lot of suggestions for setting up a network of mirror towers for communications. We just have to be able to turn them towards citadel to shine the light upon it when the time is right. That's going to take time to build and implement though. Towers of any decent height for long distances would need to be built with brick or stone since steel frame and concrete construction are unlikely to be a thing. Wait, the Romans had concrete, has it been invented in this setting? That'll all cost money, time, manpower.
We need a revenue stream, a serious one, and ASAP.
>>
>>24393512
>Avery is there, he looks better than you saw him last, mostly because his staff has increased, and that he's given up any pretense of holding the old order, and now just wants to manage the flow of the new one.

"Hey Avery, is this going to be a regular thing here? Us showing up, getting attacked, and bringing you a prisoner?"


>"No, no, no." He says. "I can't be TOUCHING the light beams of the sun. I don't want people to see this and thing 'Gosh that guy was such a prick that he thought he could hold the sun.' I want to be REACHING for the sun REACHING for the Light. I want future generations to look upon me, and my never ending effort and be...endlessly inspired...by ME."

>>24393549
This.
>>
>>24393564
A giant focusing lens in the lighthouse might not go amiss.

But one step at a time; let's get them uncorrupted, first, then figure out what form we can most effectively use them in.
>>
>>24393564
I think once Bronze Peak get's back on its feet we should be fine in terms of the tower project. If we ever get to that point.

Though personally I like to make a 'Mirror Shield' out some of the coins when we purify them.
>>
File: 1366613152760.jpg-(19 KB, 400x300, mirror_shield.jpg)
19 KB
19 KB JPG
>>24393615
And yes I'm talking about this.
>>
>>24393615
>Though personally I like to make a 'Mirror Shield' out some of the coins when we purify them.

Clang v3, the Reflectening.
>>
>>24393646
Yes~
>>
>>24393555
second. Laugh. God I missed his ass.
>>
>>24393615
>>24393645
>>24393646
The point is that it isn't just us though. If we make the metal into our shield then all we are is little better than citadel, someone unaccountably giving orders. The mirror shield would have to be a supplement to our mirror clacks network project.
Speaking of revenue stream. the flow of ideas between places is big business. So if we pioneer even a rough matchstick tower that has to be put up again and again we should make enough of a killing to start building more strongly defended and built hubs and main routes.
>>
>>24393693
From the way it was spoken there was a lot of these coins that we got from the "Old One." I'm not saying we use all of it to make a shield but some of it. We'll need something to help us fight Peace and Mirror shield seems like a good idea to me.
>>
>>24393734
Yeah, we have two different goals here: destroying Peace and the other Dramatae, and stopping Citadel while preventing it from imploding. A mirror Clang and similar implements could help with the former. More grand and distributed plans may help with the latter.
>>
You laugh. It's just...well...good to see Isen and have some levity back in your world.

"Hey Avery, is this going to be a regular thing here? Us showing up, getting attacked, and bringing you a prisoner?"

"I certainly hope not." He says. "I need to talk to you about a few things. There's were some organized bandits and raiders of the farmland. Thankfully, a combined force of Occuli, Town Watch, and Lizard People were able to rout them. The ones we captured turned out to be former First Stone Hall people, or other malcontents." He takes out one of the Blank Masks. "They were wearing these, and the leader of them was wearing a mask like the one you showed me that your prisoner was wearing." He sighed. "I'd show you it, but I crushed it to powder when my hammer smashed his face in."

"Hey! Sexy scales, and the Caligo Clarus, the hotness in the darkness and my bro Mage." Isen says. "Welcome back! Tara's gonna be happy to see you."

"Hello Isen, I hope this isn't the only thing you've been doing since I got back." You say.

"Of course not." Isen says. "I've held to my promise. I'm Isen the Audacious. I never go back on my word." He smiles. "I'm just having some 'me' time before I need to hold court this evening...again." He sticks out his tongue in distaste. "Pain in the ass. I need to hire an Evil Vizier. I asked Avery but he's too busy making sure that asses get kicked. Princess Mumei says she isn't interested either, prefers fighting with numbers." He smiles at you. "You think you or your people would like the job?"

"Oh...I missed this." Lea says, laughing.

"Yeah. Isen, it turns out we met someone with a bigger ego than you." You say.

"What?" Isen looks hurt. "Ego? Sexy Scales, Isen the Audacious may not be the picture of humility...but I do NOT over inflate my own ego."

Says the man who's standing in front of a thirty foot tall mural of himself with long wavy hair, a six pack chest under a partially open white shirt, and reaching towards the shining sun.
>>
>>24393848
"You even sort of TALK like a dragon. Maybe that's less dragon speak and more egotistical talk?"
>>
>>24393848
Just look behind him, point, and stare.
>>
>>24393911
was just about to write that.
>>
>>24393848
"Isen its ... its good to see you again even if it has been a few days. You have no idea what we've been through."

"Avery, hate to be barer of bad news for you but I think we'll be seeing even more of those types showing up, sadly.

"Speaking of which! Guess what one of the reasons we were attacked for this time! IT RAINED IN CITADEL!"

I'm never going to let go of that.
>>
>>24393848
Cover butt with Clang to prevent gropes.
Hug the big dolt.
>>
>>24393911
after doing this long enough for Isen to be flustered, do this
>>24393908
and then a little of this to avery
>>24393950
>>
>>24393995
now now, Isen wouldn't grope us. He's not the type.

besides, he wouldn't know where to grope.
>>
>>24394026
We do have tits you know.

And he is audacious.
>>
>>24394026
>Implying there isn't a chalkboard covered in equations, notes, and drawings.
>All of them attempts to figure out where to grope us.
>Implying he doesn't know to grope the tip of our tail for maximum lewd.
>>
>>24394046
but how would covering our butt help with that?
>>
>>24394061
he's been planning this caper for WEEKS.
>>
>>24394092
It shall go down in history as "The Great Sneak Booty Heist"
>>
>>24393911
You look behind him, point, and stare.

"What?" He looks. "Are the waves below me not frothy enough? I thought they were alright."

"By His Light, you even sort of TALK like a dragon. Maybe that's less dragon speak and more egotistical talk?"

"Huh?" Isen looks at you confused.

"Never mind" You say as you hug him. Isen hugs you back, though his hands are heading to touch lower than they should be. But a glare from you eases them right back up. "Isen its ... its good to see you again even if it has been a few days. You have no idea what we've been through."

"Well, you're here now. So that means things will be better."

"Hmm." You say, you turn to your Paladin cohort. "Avery, hate to be barer of bad news for you but I think we'll be seeing even more of those types showing up, sadly.

"Speaking of which! Guess what one of the reasons we were attacked for this time! IT RAINED IN CITADEL!"

Avery shakes his head and groans. Isen blinks and looks a little alarmed. "Seriously? It's...never supposed to rain in Citadel. It was one of the Blessings of The Messenger upon King Newgate, First Of The Golden City."
>>
>>24394154
>Blessings of The Messenger
"Who?"
>>
>>24394154
"That's what the masquerader told me. Also, two of your siblings are apparently quarelling over succession? There's numerous problems to be fixed. They're on the list."
>>
Potential speech to pull out in the final confrontation with the Dramatae when they pull out the inevitable 'millions will die without Citadel' card:

"You know what? This isn't about Citadel. I realized a while ago that this was never about Citadel. I never cared about Citadel. Sure I find it more than a little bit creepy but really the people there are well-fed and happy and anyone who isn't satisfied can always just move away. In fact before I kill you Peace I'm going to lock you in a room and force you to write an operating manual for the damned thing so it doesn't implode on itself after you're gone, and then I'm going to spread that knowledge as far as I can so insane MONSTERS like you never come into power ever again."

"Because, thats right, its about YOU. All of you masked bastards. Its always been about you. What you have done since I found out about you is just inexcusable, no matter how you justify it, and I shudder to contemplate what you got up to before that. Massacring entire settlements then just moving on to the next slaughter when your incredibly badly thought out plans collapse in on themselves? Thats just not on. And the way you manipulate and recruit your cronies, Peace...if for nothing else I'd kill you for that alone. And then there was what Helen told me about when I half-drowned her into lucidity...Light above, cannibalism? And Lights-damned CHILDREN? No. Just no. No, this farce has gone far enough, and it ends. Here. Now. Today."
>>
>>24394201
"That's what the masquerader told me. Also, two of your siblings are apparently quarelling over succession? There's numerous problems to be fixed. They're on the list."

"Eh, let 'em squabble." Isen says. "They've always been like that, for a while they thought I was a threat cause Dad liked me best." He shrugs. "I'm on a throne now, and it sucks. Citadel's countless times bigger than here. They can have it."

"Uhh, about this Messenger...who is that?"

"Oh, right. That's a Newgate story, we try to keep those in the family." He shrugs. "The first King Newgate was apparently this total badass who led a huge nomad tribe. This was after the first Lightbringer and his people killed the Dragon Who Was Of Shadow. Anyway, there's this city of evil, run by people who worshipped a giant demon Bear, and copulated with monsters, my nanny would always make them more and more terrible with every telling. Anyway, noble King Newgate purges the city of the evil, like a champion. Then, when he's done the Messenger of Light comes to him, and blesses him for his great and noble deed. She's crazy beautiful, with big beautiful wings. Anyway, she says that the city King Newgate was in was now his, and that she would give them the blessings of wealth, power, good weather, wisdom, blah blah blah. All King Newgate must do is go turn his army against this other growing evil and the Grandest of Citadels shall be his to rule." He shrugs. "King Newgate accepts the blessing, go kills this other army, and that's the start of Citadel." He shrugs. "My nanny told it better, with different voices. I always found it kinda dull otherwise."
>>
>>24394294
that's a pretty good speech. and a fair summation.

You FOOLS can't be trusted with a citadel.
>>
>>24394346
... Peace?
>>
>>24394369
Sure sounds like Peace.
>>
>>24394346
"You knew that all this time. We've gone all over trying to figure out what happened during those years and you knew."
>>
>>24394346
"Aw man, ol' whitewings? I got some bad news about that later on for you. You'll have to find a chair. Maybe a couch. Though, that's not even why I came. Mostly showed up to check in on the place, arrange for a trade deal between here and bronze peaks. They'll be needing meat and fish, a lot of it.
>>
>>24394369
Yeah it's Peace. And Isens family damn near killed off the Bear tribe that a lot of the sane 'monsters' were helping.
>>
>>24394397
Fucking Peace.
>>
>>24394346
damn, the dragons daughter was rather crafty using the Newgates like that.
>>
>>24394346
>"Oh, right. That's a Newgate story, we try to keep those in the family." He shrugs. "The first King Newgate was apparently this total badass who led a huge nomad tribe. This was after the first Lightbringer and his people killed the Dragon Who Was Of Shadow. Anyway, there's this city of evil, run by people who worshipped a giant demon Bear, and copulated with monsters, my nanny would always make them more and more terrible with every telling. Anyway, noble King Newgate purges the city of the evil, like a champion. Then, when he's done the Messenger of Light comes to him, and blesses him for his great and noble deed. She's crazy beautiful, with big beautiful wings. Anyway, she says that the city King Newgate was in was now his, and that she would give them the blessings of wealth, power, good weather, wisdom, blah blah blah. All King Newgate must do is go turn his army against this other growing evil and the Grandest of Citadels shall be his to rule." He shrugs. "King Newgate accepts the blessing, go kills this other army, and that's the start of Citadel." He shrugs. "My nanny told it better, with different voices. I always found it kinda dull otherwise."

"I've got some bad news for you, Isen. We've met that so-called Messenger of Light. She goes by a variety of other lies to others, but to us, she goes by 'Peace'.

And as for the Bear Tribe, we heard the other side of that story recently, as told by a dragon. They weren't evil; they were some of the world's foremost scholars."
>>
>>24394424
Brilliantly played by her, if it is Peace.

I feel bad when we tell Isen this though because ... well we should tell him just how much bullshit Citadel is.
>>
>>24394382
>>24394397
Yet another reason Peace ha to die, because you can sure as hell bet she had something to do with starting the whole thing.
>>
>>24394451
I'm making a note here to add 'the wholesale slaughter of the worlds foremost scholars' to >>24394294

I wonder if we can end up with several posts worth of horrific crimes by the time we actually use it.
>>
so the Newgates were the typical barbarian horde. Killed the Bear Tribe who was fighting the Dragon Who was of Shadow... and Peace blessed them with Citadel.

Tell Isen the truth about what really happened. The Bear Tribe's 'monsters' were all like Ssen. The Tribe itself dedicated itself to fighting evil and spreading knowledge... and the Messenger is the Dragon's daughter and used them to further her own goals.
>>
>>24394465
At that point I think it will be too long.
>>
>>24394477
Yup.
>>
>>24394477
make sure he sits down first.
>>
>>24394478
I can imagine ssen standing over a broken peace just reading off her crimes for hours before forgiving her and sending her on her journey.
>>
>>24394390
To be fair, we really can't blame him as we never did ask the guy. Then again he hardly shows this much knowledge when we speak.

I know you're not blaming him but it can be read that way.
>>
>>24394390
"You knew that all this time. We've gone all over trying to figure out what happened during those years and you knew." You say.

Isen shrugs. "It's kinda boring history. I mean, no one BELIEVES that there was a Messenger. That was probably hype." He shrugs. "I mean Nanny pumped them up as best she could, but they're kinda repetitive and dull, I always liked Ambrose's stuff better."

You shake your head. Only Isen the Audacious could honestly be so ego blind that he could say the equivalent of 'You never asked' and be completely sincere about it.

>>24394393
"Aw man, ol' whitewings? I got some bad news about that for you. You'll have to find a chair. Maybe a couch."

Isen grabs a chair and sits down.

"We've met that so-called Messenger of Light. She goes by a variety of other lies to others, but to us, she goes by 'Peace'."

"The one that tried to kill me?" Isen says. "And shot you instead?"

"Yeah. And as for the Bear Tribe, we heard the other side of that story recently, as told by a dragon. They weren't evil; they were some of the world's foremost scholars. They reached out to monsters like me. They were fighting the Dragon Who Was Of Shadow."

"Huh...well...that sucks." Isen says. "So, was she good back then and evil now, or always ev-eh, doesn't matter. She shot at us, so that means I'm kicking her ass...do you know if she's hot?"

"You're not upset?" Lea asks.

Isen shrugs. "That was what, over seven ages ago? Okay, so some of my ancestors were assholes who got suckered by some bitch. Big deal. That doesn't change who I am. I'm Isen the Audacious, and when children read one of the many books about me, they're going to just hear about how cool I was. They wont care about the Newgates, and they wont care that all the other Prince Itzaks have just two pages of history written about them...put together. They'll just care about the awesomeness that is me."

Tricia shakes her head. "You...are without compare, Isen."

(cont)
>>
>>24394496
The crimes she has committed are beyond our morality. We have no punishment, no laws fit for what she has done.

We cannot forgive her so much as we can refuse to harbor any hatred for her, and send her on without rancor. It is for none other than the Light itself to sit in judgement over her.
>>
>>24394547
"Anyway, why we came in the first place. Mostly showed up to check in on the place, arrange for a trade deal between here and Bronze Peaks. They'll be needing meat and fish, a lot of it."

"Okay." Isen shrugs. "I've been to the Peaks. Nice place...oh, have you visited Sandover Parlor?"

"YES." The group says as one.

"Alright, well...sure." He looks at you sideways for a bit. "But there's more to it, isn't there?" He nods. "Alright, I'll bite. What's the catch?"
>>
>>24394547
"I think she, or it, was then as she is now, incredibly evil, and either determined that what she's doing is right or very good at acting like it. She's worn the mask for so long, I don't know if she buys into it herself or not."
>>
>>24394605
"It turns out the entire town's money supply is made entirely of loans backed by loans. Trade would have to be done in ore, maybe finished tools and metalworks. Also, we're going to invite mumei along to sort out the problem some- her expertise will come in handy with integrating the new residents as well.
>>
>>24394605
We have time. Let's give him most of the story since we last left Stone Hall. With emphasis on the Dramatae trying to forge a new Rage out of Sandover, the first trip to the Bear Shrine, us saving him and Lea and winning for once, our encounters with the Lightbringers, and the highlights of our conversation with Old One.
>>
>>24394605
"We need Mumeis help because Bronze Peak is or damn near broke. Right now we need someone to figure out the numbers and help get The Peak back in some kind of running order"
>>
>>24394605
"Their entire economy collapsed because they were all taking loans off Jeremy expecting him never to collect, and basically they're trying to salvage what they can. We need help with that, and harpies happen to be really good with numbers, so the food's also going to go toward convincing the Harpy Queen and her people to help our cause. Then hopefully we can straighten the whole mess up and turn Bronze Peaks into an actual, functioning city."

"Oh, and we're going to need Princess Mumei too."
>>
>>24394605
"Sandover closed his whorehouse, opened a bank, and collapsed the pyramid scheme of an economy that was Bronze Peak. Now they need to generate some trade and income."
>>
>>24394654
the whorehouse isn't closed, is it? I don't think it is.
>>
>>24394605
"Bronze Peaks literally has no economy, Sandover's Parlor was the only actual income in the entire city, and everything worked with debts covering debts covering debts, with loans provided by Sandover which no one thought they would ever have to pay back, and Citadel magic."

"Now that we kicked Citadel out, by convincing Sandover not to become their new Rage, everything is falling apart due to the sheer complexity of the numbers and lack of any economy. Sandover opened a bank, and is trying to get people to actually work to pay back their debts now."

"So to fix it we are going to convince the Harpy Queen and her people to join our cause, similar to the lizard folk here, as they are apparently good with numbers."

"Oh and we need to bring Princess Mumei to fix their books, which makes this places look tidy when it was at its worst."
>>
>>24394770
This sounds good as an explanation of the current problems. But I'd still like us to catch up with Isen more thoroughly, as well.
>>
>>24394770
>>24394787
Except we haven't told Isen about citadel yet.
>>
>>24394798
Yeah we have.
>>
>>24394787
figured it I fleshed it out much more Echo would post before I did.

>>24394798
except we did, when we where heading to Stone Hall with Princess Mumei
>>
>>24394644
"Well, here's the bare bones. We have a LOT more for later." You say. Avery now sits down. "Bronze Peak is damn near broke. It turns out the entire town's money supply is made entirely of loans backed by loans, and when in doubt they took money from Jeremy Sandover, expecting him to never collect. We pulled the curtain up on this, and Sandover opened a bank and collapsed the whole scheme. Now they desperately need trade and income.

"Trade would have to be done in ore, maybe finished tools and metalworks. Oh, and we're going to need Princess Mumei too, since she can figure out the numbers. We brought some books for her to look over. Her expertise will come in handy with integrating the new residents as well."

"New residents?" Isen says.

"Well...even with Mumei, we'll still need help, and people who can do actual work. Harpies happen to be really food with numbers. So the food's also going to be used to help get the Harpy Queen to help our cause. Then hopefully we can turn Bronze Peak into a functional city."

"Harpies." Avery says. "You...want to move Harpies into Bronze Peak?"

"That's awesome! Oh man...are they hot?" Isen asks. "Mid-air fun time." He grins and looks off into the distance for a moment, then returns to normal. "So...I guess you better give Mumei the books, I'll talk to the fishermen and hunters, and then we'll see what we can work out."

"Do you have a plan on what the Harpies will do for the city? Other than numbers? Can they work forges or something?" Avery asks.
>>
>>24394810
It was when we told Princess Mumei we understood her concern for Citadel and Isen called us on it. "What's so bad about my home" Or something like that. Tara was there also if I recall.
>>
>>24394822
"Courier service. Flying across the continent delivering mail. Other than that, they only sorta have hands so I'm not sure."
>>
>>24394822
>"Do you have a plan on what the Harpies will do for the city? Other than numbers? Can they work forges or something?" Avery asks.

"I don't know yet, other than combination accountants and security. We plan to meet with their Queen when we get back, and we'll try to figure out more possibilities then. We certainly want to avoid triggering a New Bronze Peak movement."
>>
>>24394867
Nice idea!
>>
>>24394822
"That's something we're going to talk about with them at the negotiations with their Queen.

"We're not even 100% sure we'll get them on board. It's not like with the lizardflok here."
>>
>>24394822
"Well, off the top of my head, easy access to the roof of the dome for three dimensional mining prospects. Though I'm sort of playing fast and loose with all this, so suggestions and alternatives are appreciated."

"Oh, and Isen, check to see if they have any octopusi. They're a special favorite."
>>
>>24394893
>octopusi
Oh no what an unfortunate typo
>>
>>24394822
>>24394893
"The Harpy Queen seemed rather pleased with novel seafood; apparently she had octopus once and wants it again. Could you try to track some down, and perhaps a few other delicacies like that?"
>>
>>24394822
"Who knows. All sorts of things flying people can do. If negotiations with the owners go well, they'll need to translate and scribe many books."
>>
>>24394872
"I don't know yet, other than combination accountants and security. We plan to meet with their Queen when we get back, and we'll try to figure out more possibilities then. We certainly want to avoid triggering a New Bronze Peak movement." You say. "Maybe start a courier service. Flying across the continent delivering mail. Other than that, they only sorta have hands so I'm not sure.

"Oh, and Isen. The Harpy Queen seemed rather pleased with novel seafood; apparently she had octopus once, and now they're a special favorite. Could you try to track some down, and perhaps a few other delicacies like that?"

Isen nods. "No problem. So...who's in charge at Bronze Peak anyway?"

"Paladin Balles?" Tricia says. "He's been the one running the paperwork."

"Paladins guide people, we do not rule them." Avery says. "Balles can be managing this crisis, but no Paladin has ever sat upon a throne. Nor should one ever."

"Well, the current mayor did a runner." Peri says.

"Great. So, another thing we have to deal with." Avery says. "Is there any town you can go to and NOT irrevocably change?"

"River's Crossing?" Tricia says.

"Doesn't count you two were born there, and pretty much warped it from the start." Mari says, smiling.

"Don't worry about it Avery." Isen says. "I'll talk to Jeremy and the Harpy Queen, when Mumei and I go up there, and we'll get them a council set up and then..." He shrugs. "We'll find some poor sap and put him in charge. You think you can deal without me for a week or two?"

Avery nods. "Shouldn't be too big of an issue. But no more than a week, we still need some form of Newgate here."

"Why is that always so important to you Avery?" Tricia asks.

"Because you need to have respect for the Royal Blood. To have everyone agree that their rulers are good, and deserving, and slightly divine in their right to sit upon a throne."

(cont)
>>
>>24395155
Council members can come and go, and they just run things and get yelled at. That's their purpose, but a King must lead...and once the people decide that a King is just a man, or can be replaced by way of an army, then it breaks down. People start to care about who sits upon the throne more than about what the throne does. It doesn't matter that Isen's a over-sexed, egomaniac, with the attention span of a five year old."

"Hey!"

"He's a Newgate, and that means that he belongs on the throne, and no one questions it. Governing the city then becomes politics and people bicker about that, but once people bicker about who's ass sits upon a fancy chair, THAT'S when trouble starts, and the people we serve suffer."
>>
>>24395155
>"Don't worry about it Avery." Isen says. "I'll talk to Jeremy and the Harpy Queen, when Mumei and I go up there, and we'll get them a council set up and then..." He shrugs. "We'll find some poor sap and put him in charge. You think you can deal without me for a week or two?"

"You're sure that nobody else will mind you leaving for a week?" (Carefully not mentioning Granny in front of Avery, but Isen *did* agree to stay in return for what Granny promised him.)
>>
>>24395181
"Well, I'll make sure to get your newgate back to you in one piece. He's precious to us, too, you know- who else makes us laugh so fast? Anyway, I look forward to whatever complications you bring to us from the fishermen and hunters.Would you like us to talk to mumei, or will you ask her yourself?"
>>
>>24395212
Or we should just talk to granny, and tell her we need him for a week or so.

we need to talk to her anyways.
>>
>>24395220
I think we should ask Mumei; we communicate with her more clearly than Isen does at this point. And Quentin needs to meet her too.

>>24395227
Yeah, Granny's on the agenda for while we're here. It'll be fun talking to her about Old One. Also Barney.
>>
>>24395245
>>24395227
obviously we talk to granny. It goes without saying.

Gotta warn her that we maaay have militarized the dramatae.
>>
>>24395329
Oh, sure. But I also want to see the look on her face when she hears about how Old One views the Light.
>>
>>24395212
"You're sure that nobody else will mind you leaving for a week?"

Isen shrugs. "Well, I assume Tara will want to come along as my bodyguard. Oh...you mean...right." He says. "I'll send a letter, or you're going to visit right? Say that I'm not flaking out on the deal. I'm just working with you. I'm sure it'll be fine."

Isen claps his hands. "Anyway, I guess we have work to do...and you all look really tired. Go to your lighthouse home. Take the rest of the day off. Royal decree. Go."

The others are only too happy to agree. You all head back to the Lighthouse. Apparently Gregory, Barney, and Ambrose have made the place very nice. Using some scrap wood, fabric, and one or three of Barney's inventions, the place is more of a home than just a big building where you all live. There's separate rooms, a workplace for Mari and Mage, Ambrose has a little library, Barney has a workplace. Gregory moved out, and has a place of his own, but the place is very fashionable in whites, with slight green motifs here and there.

Of course, the piece de la resistance is in the basement, where Barney has created a wonder of the world. It uses his water boiler, some pumps, tubes, and a waterwheel that's connected to a stream outside. Barney Pits has created the first hot tub. It's not perfect, and the pumps are temperamental, but it's big enough for you to fully fit within it, with room to spare.

"HOW much money did you spend on this?" Mari asks as she puts her hand in the warm water.

"Did I mention that it's good for the skin?" Barney says. "I can also show you these Water Cascades I installed as well."

"We're broke again, aren't we?" Mage asks Ambrose.

"What good is money that sits in a vault that is never used? Money must fl-" Ambrose sighs. "We have enough for groceries, but yes...every time our stipend arrives, Barney finds new ways to use it. I managed to hide the last one from him...so we're not broke at the moment."
>>
>>24395356
>a hot tub big enough for Ssen

Try not to let him in on the secret that having a hot bath big enough for ourselves in our house is a childhood dream come true.

Try to act like you are grumpy about the tremendous use of money without asking. Though the mechanics are impressive.
>>
>>24395356
>Of course, the piece de la resistance is in the basement, where Barney has created a wonder of the world. It uses his water boiler, some pumps, tubes, and a waterwheel that's connected to a stream outside. Barney Pits has created the first hot tub. It's not perfect, and the pumps are temperamental, but it's big enough for you to fully fit within it, with room to spare.

Worth it.
>>
>>24395356
I'm actually ... disappointed. Not all that money was his to spend on whatever he invents ...

Some sure but damn near all of it? Ugh.
>>
>>24395425
worth it, he did start a technology revolution in the city, seeing as there is now an entire market dedicated to new inventions.
>>
>>24395425
Looks like they also furnished the place, and:
> There's separate rooms, a workplace for Mari and Mage, Ambrose has a little library

I think they did rather well. And with Barney finally out from under Citadel, I can understand him going nuts for a while. And it *did* result in a lamia-sized hot tub, which we'll get *lots* of use out of.
>>
>>24395450
Yeah, I'm surprised Barney hasn't started selling some of these. Perhaps he needs some encouragement in that direction.
>>
>>24395399
lemme write some dialogue for that, since it seems other people are being slow about it:

"Barney, I am dissapointed in the use such a large amount of money without supervision, but I must admit the pumps and boilers and such are impressive. I would like to see the workings later, including whatever those cascades are.

Still though, you've done an amazing job for the tower as a whole, and I'm a sucker for things that help my skin. Good to be home."
>>
>>24395450
>>24395463
And what of our crew? Some of them could use some new gear ... or at least the chance to buy some which we can't now ...
>>
>>24395485
I don't think we're talking about the same stipend, here. We got paid back in Bronze Peak.
>>
>>24395496
oh, are we giving them a budget already? is this out of his bookmarked budget?
>>
>>24395496
Then where did this money come from?
>>
"On a completely unrelated note, I think testing this new invention should take a top priority."
>>
>>24395470
>>24395477
"Barney, I am dissapointed in the use such a large amount of money without supervision, but I must admit the pumps and boilers and such are impressive. I would like to see the workings later, including whatever those cascades are."

"Sure, but for the record, Ambrose spends just as money as I do on things like books and do-dads, and old pieces of rust."

"Those are tomes, antiquities, and relics!" Ambrose snaps. "They are our order's history and must be obtained and kept safe."

"Sure, and HOW does a rusted candlestick that doesn't stand straight help the Order?"

"BOYS!" You snap. "Still though, you've done an amazing job for the tower as a whole, and I'm a sucker for things that help my skin. Good to be home."

"We are honored to have you back, Paladin Ssen of the Caligo Clarus." Ambrose says.

"Same, boss." Barney says. "It gets dull with just Ambrose here and Greg only comes around so often."

"Barney," You ask. "Why haven't you sold some of these inventions anyway?"

"I tried." He says. "But some of these things weren't my ideas, so Ambrose and Greg say I need to wait until I can prove that the people who designed these things can't be contacted anymore. I said that they signed over the rights to me, but Gregory and Ambrose out voted me...but if you gave the go-ahead Ssen, we could be rolling in the gold."

"Pride is cheap, integrity is priceless." Ambrose says. "You will not be a thief of ideas while you live within this building!"

Barney sighs. "Alright...I get you." He nods. "I'll be upstairs getting lunch ready."

"Why doesn't he leave?" Lea asks.

"I think he's lonely." Ambrose says. "He's spent so much time alone in that hole of his back in Citadel that he doesn't want to come back to it. Also I think he fancies you Miss Lea."

"You're kidding." Lea says.

Ambrose shrugs. "I could be mistaken. I'm just an old man after all." He walks away back up to his library.

The others all yawn and stretch and head up to their rooms.

(cont)
>>
>>24395529
Tricia has hung back, as per your arm on hers.

"On a completely unrelated note, I think testing this new invention should take a top priority." You say smiling at her.

"I think that would be quite prudent." Tricia says.

And with that we fade to black and I fade to sleep. Next thread will be on Tuesday 23rd, 3-4pm PST. Hope to see you there.
>>
>>24395568
>"I tried." He says. "But some of these things weren't my ideas, so Ambrose and Greg say I need to wait until I can prove that the people who designed these things can't be contacted anymore. I said that they signed over the rights to me, but Gregory and Ambrose out voted me...but if you gave the go-ahead Ssen, we could be rolling in the gold."

"It's not like you're claiming to own the idea, as if anyone could. You're selling the thing itself. Please, go ahead.

Just try to make sure you save some of the resulting gold. We seem to keep finding that saving the world gets expensive."
>>
>>24395568
daww a romance for Lea? good for her, was a little depressed at her future, especially with her refusal to look at lengthening her life.

>>24395598
Night Echo, see you then.
>>
>>24395598
I will SO be there. There's so much to do!

Also we have to do some revisions on the bath. The scalding hot water was quite refreshing for a lamia, but Tricia quite disagreed with it.
>>
>>24395598
See you then boss. Thanks for the thread.

>>24395601
>(cont)
It's like you purposely miss that or something. And you do it so often too. Eh.
>>
>>24395625
>romance for lea
>refusing to lengthen her life
It's as if you don't realize she's going to have her life extended cybernetically. she's expressed desire to fix it if her muscles are severed and the like.

just ONE good accident and she's adam jensen as fuck. She didn't ask for this.
>>
>>24395598
Thanks for another awesome thread, Echo.

http://suptg.thisisnotatrueending.com/archive/24343226/#p24353730
Don't worry, heavy drama bit is done. Nothing but fun times with the slightly-loopy harpies and when you hit Stone Hall, it's never too sad when Isen is present. Plus, some more daww with Tricia.
>>24389597

But the promised d'awww was worth it.
>>
>>24395650
You rolled a 20 on a travel roll! What else was I supposed to do?!

I TRIED to get you to Stone Hall quickly for fun and daw but /tg/ dice have other plans.
>>
>>24395625
Eh, I'm happy someone within our little group doesn't want to.
>>
>>24395676
eh, we'll have more fun and dawww next time

Hopefully the session starts mid-hot-tub.
>>
>>24395677
>Doesn't want to
She didn't ask for this.

Jensen ending confirmed.
>>
>>24395694
I just see a host of issues if this is forced on her in any really shape or form.
>>
>>24395719
>really
>real

Whatever.
>>
>>24395719
Let me have my crazy theories man.

I'm going to keep making them, since the one about the bag came true.
>>
>>24395637
*shrug*, not ignoring the rest of the post, just responding to some dialogue from the middle of it. Same as responding to something from the middle of a long single post; there's frequently a kind of mild retcon in place so that we can go back and respond to something in the post as though we said it in response to a particular line, which allows much longer and more coherent posts from Echo.

>>24395676
Just joking; yeah, the dice definitely had it out for us. And "four Passions" definitely got my attention, though for just a second I thought the others were pulling a prank on Tricia and Ssen, right up until the broken wheel.

I've rolled a few nice crits in previous threads, I'll take my critfails too. Not like anyone we cared about was seriously hurt in that battle, so it was a good place to eat one.

And it's nice to see we're getting stronger in battle, too. Looking forward to training with Granny more next thread.
>>
>>24395683
Hopefully indeed. Of course, with our luck, it'll be just in time for an ill-timed interruption...
>>
>>24395764
oh how do I look forward to training with granny. And I hope the harpy queen is cool. And not a bitch. or at least a cool bitch.
>>
What ever happened to Ssen's good nightgown?

Did it ever recover? Did it give in to the corruption of the stains?
>>
>>24395790
I'm hoping for a queen like Paul, and a society that looks like what you'd get if you put Paul in charge of something.
>>
>>24395818
I hope just being a snake is enough to get a bow out of her. But we're a relatively small snake, still. Could be bigger.



Delete Post [File Only] Password
Style
[a / b / c / d / e / f / g / gif / h / hr / k / m / o / p / r / s / t / u / v / vg / vr / w / wg] [i / ic] [r9k] [s4s] [cm / hm / lgbt / y] [3 / adv / an / asp / cgl / ck / co / diy / fa / fit / gd / hc / int / jp / lit / mlp / mu / n / out / po / pol / sci / soc / sp / tg / toy / trv / tv / vp / wsg / x] [rs] [status / q / @] [Settings] [Home]
[Disable Mobile View / Use Desktop Site]

[Enable Mobile View / Use Mobile Site]

- futaba + yotsuba -
All trademarks and copyrights on this page are owned by their respective parties. Images uploaded are the responsibility of the Poster. Comments are owned by the Poster.