>>29802636
>>What do you know about the (in your mind, former) Prince Guard?

>>29802636
How much for a commissioned Armored Gauntlet of Crushing?

>>29802673
>>29802676
Both of these sound good.

>>29802636
Wouldn't the kingdom foot the bill for our armor and weapons? I'm assuming they'll spare no expense to protect the prince.

>>29802636
>Warning: I am still uncertain about what dice system to use for combat. Expect some experimentation.

Use the Shadow Quest dice system. The QM sets a hidden DC for the action, then the players roll 1d100. Now see how many of the first 3 rolls succeed the DC.
0 Successes= Action Failed
1 Success= Minimal Success
2 Successes= Success
3 Successes= Great Success

If players roll a 1 its a crit-failure, if they roll a 100 its a crit success.

>>29802636
>What are your rates?

"If we bring you the materials, will you give me a discount?"

Also OP, I'm going to second >>29802772 's suggestion for the dice combat.

>>29802676
>>29802673
These.

>>29802772
I don't plan for crit failures. Nonetheless, I will look into this, and change some things accordingly.

>>29802745
Presently, it's not publicly known that the old guard is dead - so saying you're the new Guard might raise some eyebrows. You should probably wait until you are publicly instated and announced before claiming your position to those outside the castle.

At least, that's what your old, paranoid self tells you. You quietly wonder whether such thoughts will ever go away.

Still...

"What do you know about the Prince Guard?"

"Discerning. He was always looking over his weapons before he bought them. More than once he challenged me to spars just to test a blade. And he was strong. Very strong. Even for his age, he bested me nine times out of ten."

Most Appals are martially powerful - you've yet to meet one that didn't know how to use a spear, and one even taught you. You never caught on to tunnel tactics, but it's apparently their strong suit - thrusting, rather than swinging, weapons.

"How much for a magical gauntlet?"

He rattles off some absurd gold price, and then, "And a single favour of my choosing, to be repaid later." he adds.

You blink. That's... Well, no, it's not new, it's actually somewhat archaic.
"Really?"

"Really. If one is not ready to do such things for a weapon, then one is not ready to use it." he says, with a shrug. Huh.

>Wait. Then what did the Prince do for his weapon?
>I see. Can you work with some of my existing weaponry?
>How much for a normal shield in Appal Steel?
>Writein

>>29802636
>dice system
xKy is dirt simple. Everyone rolls 1dy, keep the best. If you want you can use the FU table that goes
6=yes, and...
5=yes, you succeed
4=yes, but...
3=no,, but...
2=no, you fail
1=no, and...

>>29802636

>Warning: I am still uncertain about what dice system to use for combat. Expect some experimentation.

Is it possible that we could have a talk about this when the thread ends? I'd like to get your opinions on what kind of dice would work best.

>>29802941
>>I see. Can you work with some of my existing weaponry?

>>29802941
>How much for a normal shield in Appal Steel?

>>29802941
>>How much for a normal shield in Appal Steel?
>I see. Can you work with some of my existing weaponry?

>>29802941
>What did the Prince do for his weapon
I bet he let the smithy study his +2 Spear of Penetration.
Oh, we should consider getting a Spear of Penetration when we acquire royal money.

>>29802941
>Wait. What did the prince do for his weapon?

Gotta dig up dirt on him now.

>>29802941
>I see. Can you work with some of my existing weaponry?

>>29802941
>single favour later

I think you may need to have him elaborate on the nature of this favour

>>29803080
>>29803026
>>29803001
"I see. Can you work with some of my existing weaponry?"

"Hand it." he says, and you let him inspect. "Hrn. Solid workmanship. Not the best but what can one hope for outside of Central." he mutters. "Mayhaps etch in... Perhaps reinforce... Hn hnhn...." he hands it back. "I can work over your equipment, yes. The cost is..."

My. That's prohibitive. You can afford it, for one of your peices of equipment, aside from the spear. Your armor, however, is almost all leather, and he offhandedly remarks it's for a tanner to work with. Though he does have some chainmail...

Well. you could improve what you have, within your budget.

>Improve my gauntlets and Sabatons.
>Improve my shield.
>About the prince...?
>>Write in question
>About magic weapons...?
>>Write in question
>Write in action

>>29803349
>>Improve my gauntlets and Sabatons.
Crush. Harder.

>>29803349
>Improve Shield
Wait for our cashmoney from the Royals so we get top quality Gauntlets

>>29803349
>>Improve my shield.

>>29803349
>Improve my shield

>>29803349
>>Improve my shield.

>>29803349
>Improve my shield.
I want us to get some magic Gauntlets of Crushing.
Would we be able to become an Unarmed Swordsage if we got Gauntlets of Cutting?

>>29803349
>>Improve my shield.
Armor should be on our to-do list.

>>29803400
>>29803430
>>29803472
>>29803482
>>29803510
>>29803569
Will we have enough money to go and upgrade our armor in the tanner if we upgrade our shield?

>>29803569
>>29803510
>>29803482
>>29803472
>>29803430
>>29803400
"Can you improve my shield?"

"Come back for it in the morning, yes?" he says, as you hand over the sum. "I will insure it can take anything thrown at it." he nods, as you step outside. You hadn't realized how dark it got. With a stretch, you idly ponder...

>I should check out the Church of Raev.
>I should return to the castle.
>I should check out the Arena - it might be open still.
>Writein

>>29803706
>>I should return to the castle.
Don't think we can fight in the arena without a shield, soo..

>>29803706
Return to the castle.

>>29803706
>I should check out the Arena - it might be open still.

>>29803706
>>I should return to the castle.
Worky work

>>29803706
>I should return to the castle.

>>29803706
>I should return to the castle.

Let's be profensional and not get in any trouble in our first day on the job.

>>29803706
>I should check out the Church of Raev.
then
>I should return to the castle.

>>29803706
>insure
Ensure. Insure is the thing Geico does. Ensure is making certain of something.

Anyways:
>I should return to the castle.

>>29803706
>I should check out the Arena - it might be open still.
we've got a little time

>>29803706
>I should check out the Church of Raev.

>>29803706
>>I should check out the Church of Raev.

>>29803728
>>29803729
>>29803772
>>29803786
>>29803790
>>29803819
Writing

>>29803510
I need this to be answered as well.

I genuinely think buying stuff now is a bad idea until we know how much we're paid

>Come back later

>>29803919
You return to the castle as the sun sets. The castle is awful quiet as you settle into your room. So, you remain in your armor and armed, just in case. There's a knock on your door, eventually, and opening it reveals a contrite, handsome face. Ah.

"What are you doing here, Highness?"

"I, er. I came to apologize."

"You aren't serious."

"I am!" he says, holding up his hands. His body language almost makes you laugh - he's a little hunched, his hands are up, and his legs look ready to flee. He's scared of you. "I shouldn't have attacked you."

"...No, you were right, in that moment, to attack me. You had no way of confirming my story when you swing that blade." you admit.

"Really?"

"Just don't do it again. That weapon is dangerous. You don't even know how to use it. Why even buy it?"

"I should... I should be ready to put my life on the line for the people." he says. His voice is scared, but you can tell, behind it, there's a sense of... duty? "I shouldn't have to stand behind someone else forever."

You quirk an eyebrow. "So... please. I..." my, this is almost funny, watching him try to humble himself. "I need to learn. Please, teach me."

>You're doing this to get into my pants, aren't you?
>Only if you're serious about this. I won't teach someone for appearances.
>Only if your father gives permission. I don't want him asking about any bruises you might get.
>Fine. If you're sure. But don't come crying to me when you're covered in bruises and your nose is broken.
>No.
>Writein

>>29804115
>You're doing this to get into my pants, aren't you?
Followed by
>Only if you're serious about this. I won't teach someone for appearances.

>>29804115
>Fine. If you're sure. But don't come crying to me when you're covered in bruises and your nose is broken.
Let us crack our knuckles and smile like a maniac as we say this.

>>29804115
>>Only if you're serious about this. I won't teach someone for appearances.
and don't expect it to be gentle either

>>29804115
>>Only if you're serious about this. I won't teach someone for appearances.
>>Only if your father gives permission. I don't want him asking about any bruises you might get.

>>29804115
>You're doing this to get into my pants, aren't you?
"Are you attempting to seduce me?"

Inb4 sparring for dominance

>>29804115
>Only if your father gives permission. I don't want him asking about any bruises you might get.

>>29803349
"Why were you referring to the Prince Guard in the past tense? I heard that they were keeping it under wraps for now?"

>Only if you're serious about this. I won't teach someone for appearances.

>>29804115
>Only if your father gives permission. I don't want him asking about any bruises you might get.

>>29804115
>>Only if your father gives permission. I don't want him asking about any bruises you might get.
>>Fine. If you're sure. But don't come crying to me when you're covered in bruises and your nose is broken.

These. Let's toughen him up.

>>29804115
Agree, but there are three things he needs to know
1. He's going to get beaten, bruised, probably a few broken bones
2. We expect commitment to this-we aren't going to let him flake out
3. If this is a ploy to get in our pants, he will wish he had never been born, royal blood or no

>>29804115
>>You're doing this to get into my pants, aren't you?
>>Only if you're serious about this. I won't teach someone for appearances.

Both .

>>29804115
>Only if you're serious about this. I won't teach someone for appearances.

>>29804115
>>Fine. If you're sure. But don't come crying to me when you're covered in bruises and your nose is broken.

>>29804115
What's the state of healing magic in this universe

Could it say, fix a broken bone or a broken nose caused by someone not knowing how to properly guard a blow?

>>29804115
> You're doing this to get into my pants, aren't you?

>>29804161
Probably just QM error. It could also be explained away as the shopkeeper going off of dated info - this is what the guard used when he last visited the shop.

Doubt you're supposed to read into it.

>>29804215
I don't know, I figured it could just be that he's close enough to the royal family that they considered him worthy of informing.

So, some combination of
>You better be serious and not just trying to get into my pants
>It's going to hurt, and I don't want you or your dad bitching about that.

Writing.

>>29804115
>>You're doing this to get into my pants, aren't you?

I say we DON'T bring this up.
He seems honest in his intentions right now, snd hasn't made any move otherwise. To be so forward on that would be rude for either of us and make it awkward.
Let's only say it if he pulls something.

>>29804291
"You had best be serious about this, Sire."

"I am!" he says. "I am serious."

"Then you should know it's not going to be easy. There's going to be bruises and cuts. Scars. Maybe even broken bones, if you're that incompetent. Which you might be. Are you still sure?"

He nods.
"Then ask your father about it tomorrow, after I am announced publicly." you relent. The relief in his eyes is almost endearing. You palm your face, chill iron a relief. "Just... Just go." you grumble, "Before I change my damn mind."

On the business side of things, this is good - If he's even slightly competent, we will have a lot less to worry about. Plus, it keeps him off the streets and out of the legs of the lady citizens. You're sure husbands and fathers thank you everywhere.

"Her name was Marie." he adds, before he turns the corner. "The girl from before. She's been sent off to a convent for Law and wrote to me."

"Did you apologize?"

"..."

Pfft. "I'll be in my chambers." he says as he slips away.

You lay back heavily, resting on the bed.

>1d100 for dream/nightmare.

Rolled 55

>>29804482
pls no prince wet dream

Rolled 15

>>29804482
Not sure what to wish for.

Rolled 80

>>29804482
muh ptsd muh trauma

this is pretty good so far

Rolled 79

>>29804482

Rolled 99

>>29804482
c'mon unspeakable nightmares

>>29804579
>99
You asked for it. Writing.

>>29804617
Aww fuck...

File: 1390771284391.jpg-(46 KB, 560x432, 1336940713487.jpg)

46 KB JPG

>>29804617
Oh christ Oh Jeez

W-was it roll-under?

File: 1390771418543.png-(324 KB, 538x326, Whoops_c6ee89_4693597.png)

324 KB PNG

>>29804617

>>29804617
>>29804671
Yeah, can we get clarification on the mechanics of checks like these for future reference?

File: 1390771519126.jpg-(457 KB, 850x1200, 1378991530107.jpg)

457 KB JPG

Rolled 42

>>29804617
This has potential.

>>29804617

You remember. You remember things buried deep, things hidden hard. You're small. Your hair goes to the small of your back, and your slim figure is tanned heavily to the shoulders. You've been told your eyes were like tiny stars when you smiled.

You've been told there was no way you could have known what the tiny iron rod would do. That it would be a light show, a pretty firework for the nice Appals. You still remember it in your hands, a pulsing, living thing in your small fingers.

How you were told, how you were ordered, to go into their caves with the pretense of charity. How they accepted you, how none looked at the object in your hands. And when you held it up, how at first you thought the cries were of joy... You can see yourself, in your pretty green dress, with a wide grin on your face as you hold up the pulsing rod.

You bolt awake in a cold sweat, screaming to look away. To cover your ears. You grip the sheets, punching the wall with little cry.

Rising from the bed and washing your face pushes the nightmare away again, taking deep breaths as you look in the mirror. No one would call these eyes little stars now, more like... mossy stones. You put up your hair and slide your helmet on, dressing for the day. The king should be returning today.

>Let's talk to William and find out when.
>Let's go get our shield.
>Let's practice forms.
>Let's relax a little to shake off the nightmare.
>Writein

Inb4 we write the Necronomicon.

>>29804781
>>Let's go get our shield.
Meet the guy in full gear.

>>29804781
>Let's go get our shield.
So we got pointed at an appal cave with a gun and told to go kill them? Shit, that's harsh.

>>29804781
>Let's go get our shield.

>>29804781
>>Let's go get our shield.

>>29804827
>a gun
Nah, it probably just sucked their souls dry while we heard the agonizing cries for mercy that never came.

>>29804781
>>Let's go get our shield.
>>Let's practice forms.

>>29804781
>>Let's practice forms.
We don't necessarily need our shield so long as we have iron.

New idea now. What if we got iron studs in our skin, or increased the iron content in our blood? Could we be a true unarmed swordmage then?

>>29804827
>there was no way you could have known what the tiny iron rod
more like we were used to unleash hell on a bunch of civilians

>>29804781
>Let's go get our shield.
>Let's practice forms.

>>29804889
>>29804829
>>29804827
>>29804838
>>29804814

You make your way out, shaking things off as you head to the forge. The Appal greets you warmly, handing the shield over.
"I have reinforced it with Appal steel. It's not as strong as a full shield with the metal, but at the very least I can gaurentee it will be troubling at the least to pierce." he states. You make your way back to the castle, noting that the king's yet to arrive. That known, you head down to the garden, and practice forms.

It's heavy work. Especially without dummies or targets. But you work through it nonetheless, old, tired routine letting you meditate as you work. Then someone speaks up, making you almost jump.


"You're pretty good." she says, leaning on a pillar. She's better armored than you, and her stance, while looking casual, would allow her to easily swing into a combat stance with that axe of hers. She doesn't look like she's seen much actual combat, her face unmarred by the scars of the arena or war, but she, at least, looks competent. "Sorry. I should have known you were jumpy. The name's Gina, I'm the captain of the Praetorians."

The king's personal guards.

"Annalin. Most people know me as Mistral." you say.

"The new guard, huh?" she smiles, picking up her axe and moving closer. "William looks a right idiot, but... He knows what he's doing, at least." she hefts the thing over her shoulders, letting her wrists rest on the long haft.

>Want to spar?
>So when's the king coming back, if you're here?
>How long were you watching?
>Writein
The image for this is already posted >>29771635 here.

>>29805356
>Want to spar?

>>29805356
>How long were you watching?

>>29805356
>I've never fought a member of the Royal Guard before
>Fite me 1v1

>>29805356
>So when's the king coming back, if you're here?

>>29805356
>So when's the king coming back, if you're here?

>>29805356
>So when's the king coming back, if you're here?

>>29805356
>So when's the king coming back, if you're here?

>>29805356
>>So when's the king coming back, if you're here?

>>29805356
>Want to spar?

>>29805356
>So when's the king coming back, if you're here?
>Want to spar?

>>29805537
>>29805519
>>29805428
>>29805426
Writing.

>>29805356
>>Want to spar?
>>So when's the king coming back, if you're here?

>>29805356
Move the border of all your character images over by one or two pixels. You will never get an image conflict.

>>29805564
As much as you'd like to match blades with her - her stance is perfect - you sigh.
"So the king'll be along soon?"

"Yes." she says. "He sends me ahead to make sure everything is alright. Castle's as tight as ever."

"Except for the prince sneaking in."

"How the hell does he manage that? I swear, if he put as much energy into his training as he does running from angry men..."

"Then he probably wouldn't need me." you say, and she giggles. "So. You almost done here, or are you finished?"

>Yeah. Let's head to the audience room.
>Nah, let me go through a bit more of the routine.
>Finishing shouldn't take all that long.
>Writein

"Well. In any case, the king should be here in about an hour.

>>29805850
Should have had a paragraph break there near the end. Damnit.

>>29805850
>Nah, let me go through a bit more of the routine.
WE MUST COMPLETE OUR MORNING ROUTINE

If we don't, we'll experience crippling bad luck.

>>29805850
>>Yeah. Let's head to the audience room.

>>29805850
>>Yeah. Let's head to the audience room.

>>29805850
>>Nah, let me go through a bit more of the routine.

>>29805850
>Routine
We have to get more SWOLE. How are we gonna protect shit if all we do is talk with the people we're supposed to help guard, like a limp-dicked pansy? We need to get more SWOLE.

>>29805850
>Routine

>>29805850
>Nah, let me go through a bit more of the routine.

>>29805985
>>29805974
>>29805939
>>29805899
>>29805985
>>29806120
Writing.

File: 1390775439118.jpg-(118 KB, 493x597, OldHile.jpg)

118 KB JPG

>>29806155
"Let me get through a bit more of this." you say, and she nods, watching you move into your sabaton forms, finally stopping after a solid ten minutes of constant kicking.

She smirks as trumpets sound. "Just in time. Wash your face and meet me in the main audience hall. It's a big room, full of paintings of previous generations. You never imagined that the prince would look so different from his descendants - strong men with silver-gold hair stare down at you accusingly, as if wondering if you're really a Critter.

The doors open to a royal procession, by now severely reduced to just William, two guards, and the king himself. William is going over past events, and the king is listening with eyes focused forward. You and Gina both fall to one knee as the massive man stands over you, easily six feet and eight inches to your five and ten. He hands off his massive weapon to a few young squires, who cart it off with some trouble as he walks past you and he lands in his chair heavily. This isn't the throne - that one is in another room - but it's fairly grand to seat him anyway. You get the distinct impression that he could easily beat you to death with his bare hands while you are armed and armored.

"So." he says, after much pondering, "Mistral Magebreaker. Tell me..." he leans forward.


"What do you think of my son?"

>Writein

>>29806505
"He's certainly a handful, your highness, but he has expressed interest in learning the arts of swordplay, which I hope he'll have the conviction to stick with as I train him."

>>29806505
"I think he's... an idiot, but not completely incompetent. He'll make an acceptable king one day."

>>29806505
He has a long way to go.... but I believe he could become very capable if he were to start taking things seriously

>>29806653
I'll go with this

>>29806505
"It's not my place to judge royalty, your majesty."

>>29806505
"At this point, my opinion of him is that of a kid who's thinking with the wrong organ. But... I do feel that he has potential. Whether he will realize it is an entirely different question, though."

>>29806635
>Calling the prince an idiot.

It's like you want to be executed for treason.

>>29806694
It's probably best to start with this, to be honest.

>>29806505
"He has potential but he is still a child at heart."

>>29806505
He seems eager to learn, brave and is incredibly swift on his feet. He'll be a great warrior one day, and perhaps an even greater king, s long as he can keep out of trouble and keep his Sword of Penetration inside it's sheath.

>>29806717
but he has asked us for our opinion

>>29806505
"He wil come true under pressure, if it doesn't kill him first"

>>29806505
"To be frank, your majesty, he is weak and a buffoon, but not entirely without merit. There is steel within him, but drawing it out will be exceedingly difficult."

>>29806763
He could be just testing us, though.

>>29806807
Actually, I get the feeling the prince draws out his steel pretty easily.
If you know what I mean.

>>29806763
...and? He's a king. They can do shit like that. Ask for your honest opinion, then kill you for giving it.

>>29806877
would he want someone for his son's bodyguard who would overlook what said son is doing?
Just my thoughts, of course.

>>29806653
>>29806679
You turn over what you think in your head.
"I will speak frankly, sire. I apologize if I offend. I mean, it's not my place..."

"I am not so meek to seek opinions I cannot handle. Speak."

You nod. "I believe he has a long way to go. He's... Like a child, thinking with the wrong organ." you see his hands tighten on the armrests. "However... He's eager to learn, brave despite himself, and very swift to act." you say. "Someday he will make an impressive king."

He nods.
"Eager to learn... He has approached you?"

"He has."

He strokes his magnificent beard in contemplation.
"Well." he says, A strong soul and heart rest in a strong body. You are free to train him as you see fit. If he comes under permanent harm, however..."

He lets the question hang like a man from a noose.

"Understood."

"Good! Then... William. Put out the word that old Harold has passed, and that this fine lady shall be the new Guardian." he says, though it's practically a bellow. "Oh. And if he does anything untoward, simply let me know." he adds. "He may be royalty, but he is first my son and blood, and I must appropriately castigate him when the time comes."

You nod, and the king rises. "Now, if you shall excuse me, I've a people to see to, tax law to review, and some traitors to hang. I'm booked." he grins as he strides out.

That went a lot better than you thought it would.

Gina rises nodding to you and heading out.

>Well. Time to start that idiot's training.
>I should talk to William - see about Harold's death some more. When did it happen?
>What events are upcoming? I should ask William.
>What budget am I running on, here? I should ask William.
>I should visit the Church of Raev.
>Writein

>>29806941
Ask about the budget. I want my Gauntlets of Crushing.

>>29806941
>What events are upcoming? I should ask William.
>What budget am I running on, here? I should ask William.

>>29806941
>Well. Time to start that idiot's training.
or
>I should talk to William - see about Harold's death some more. When did it happen?

Do not ask about the budget until after we have started to earn it

>>29806911
I guess you were right, we'll have to be a bit more careful when voicing opinions about his son

>>29806941
>I should talk to William - see about Harold's death some more. When did it happen?

>>29806941
>>Well. Time to start that idiot's training.

>>29806941
>Training
Get that kid a blunt sword, we can fight him bare handed.

>>29807071
Shield is the best tool to bring on a battlefield because it works as a weapon and blocks projectiles.

>>29806941
>>What events are upcoming? I should ask William.
>>What budget am I running on, here? I should ask William.

>>29806941
>>Well. Time to start that idiot's training.

>>29806999
>>29806993
>>29807157

>>29807176
>>29807071
>>29807053

Writing.

>>29807259
Your first thing is to assess upcoming events, as well as your budget. You approach William, who smiles wide.
"Congratulations! Welcome to the castle on official." he says.

"So what's my official pay?"

"Oh." he rattles off a few things - You get paid enough to purchase a single piece of Appal equipment a week, with the rest of your money going to food, clothes, supplies, and other sundry things.
"And if I want something for the job?"
"Then you have to ask me. We can't empty our pockets for you - there is a royal budget, after all, even if the prince's safety is important." he says with a nod. "Things like magical equipment... I'm willing to let you purchase two for now." he says. "Talk to me when you'd like to discuss such things."
"And what of events?"
"We have a meeting with some nobles from the Eastern Kingdoms. A critter kingdom of some size, we're aiming to get a trade agreement running. Or at the very least, prevent a war." he sighs. Times are uncertain, you know that much. "Finally, we have some visiting royalty from the West. A rather young, tribal kingdom. We hope to gain access to thier fast silver mines."

Silver is fantastic for magical forging, as far as you know. But it's mostly used in weapons.

"Thanks, William. I'll talk to you later." you say with a nod.

Where could the prince be...?

>Probably in his chambers.
>I bet he's on the town, trying to avoid his father.
>Stables, maybe?
>Writein

>>29807586
>>I bet he's on the town, trying to avoid his father.

>>29807586
>I bet he's on the town, trying to avoid his father.

>>29807586
>I bet he's on the town, trying to avoid his father.

Yeah, I can see this one. King Dad seems like a very serious fellow whilst he doesn't.

>>29807586
>I bet he's on the town, trying to avoid his father.

>>29807586
>>I bet he's on the town, trying to avoid his father.

heres a thought, if we ever need to find him, just get a magebro to do some low level damaging spell on him, and our ring will teleport us

>>29807648
>>29807645
>>29807634
>>29807623
>>29807615
1d100. Add 20 for mind perks, and 5 for guessing correct.

Rolled 87

>>29807722
ere we go

Rolled 11

>>29807722

Rolled 53

>>29807722

Rolled 51

>>29807722
bloodhound mode

Rolled 89 + 25

>>29807722
So high is good?

Rolled 22 + 25

>>29807722
spice melange powered mind

>>29807768
>>29807745
DC: 70
Two successes out of three possible: Average success.

Writing.

>>29807836
You make your way out of the building, heading down to the streets in search of the damn fool boy. It isn't long...

>(Minimal success!)

Before you spot him and approach him with ease. He blinks at you.
"Mistral, hello, hi, fancy seeing you here!" he says, nervously.
"We're training. Back to the castle.
"But... Well, I'd rather practice here, you see, somewhere away from the castle, and..."

You've never seen him this frightened. Something is up. That's when you spot his eye flick up.
Oh.

/Oh./

There's archers there.
"please don't make a fuss." he says, "Or else they may shoot us both." Two archers. Between them they have most exits covered but one.

>(Normal success)

You think you could get a drop on the archer assassins if you entered the building closest to you and sent the prince to running. On the other hand, if you wanted to, you could bring him with you into the building. But there may be enemies inside... And even two trained assassins with you having to guard him...

>His safety is worth the gamble. Bring him with you.
>Send him running, being outnumbered is far easier than being forced to protect him.
>Writein

>>29808123
There might be more forces coming at us other than this, sending him on his won could get him killed. We also have a shield that can block anything. Let's make sure he doesn't get his fool ass killed.

>>29808123
>His safety is worth the gamble. Bring him with you.

>>29808123
>>His safety is worth the gamble. Bring him with you.

>>29808123
Bring him with us.
Quip about how this shit is "Lesson one"

Rolled 7

>>29808123
>>His safety is worth the gamble. Bring him with you.

>>29808123
"GOTTA LEARN ON YOUR FEET, KIDDO."

>>29808123
How does this kid keep getting himself in trouble?
Some sort of "Summon: People who want to kick my ass" spell?

>>29808325
>>29808315
>>29808277
>>29808198
>>29808171
Writing.

>>29808394
"This is lesson one. Don't draw that damn sword, it's too dangerous." you kick down the door to the building and pull him in hard, throwing yourself into the room where two humanoids stand. Tall, with horns peeking from their hoods, they attempt to rush you down!

You move into a defensive stance as the Prince shuts the door and quickly bars it.

And then he huddles down behind you. Not like you expected him to do much else. The room isn't very large - 40 foot square at most, and you're cornered.

>Attempt to overpower one of them with shield and sabaton (Might)
>Wait for an assault and ride it out to determine their style (Mind)
>Prepare for a magical assault and deflect it back. (Magic)

>>29808660
>Wait for an assault and ride it out to determine their style (Mind)

>>29808660
>Wait for an assault and ride it out to determine their style (Mind)
It's always good to know your opponents fighting style before you combat them.

>>29808660
>Attempt to overpower one of them with shield and sabaton (Might)

>>29808660
>Attempt to overpower one of them with shield and sabaton (Might)

>>29808660
>Attempt to overpower one of them with shield and sabaton (Might)

>>29808660
>Wait for an assault and ride it out to determine their style (Mind)

>>29808660
>Wait for an assault and ride it out to determine their style (Mind)

>>29808660
>>Attempt to overpower one of them with shield and sabaton (Might)

>>29808660
>>Wait for an assault and ride it out to determine their style (Mind)

>>29808660
>>Attempt to overpower one of them with shield and sabaton (Might)

If we get one down. We have one less to worry about.

>>29808844
If we try to deal with one of them before they make their move, we might find the other one attacking the prince before we can get back to him.

Rolled 2

>>29808844
>>29808788
>>29808754
>>29808753
>>29808729

>>29808686
>>29808699
>>29808766
>>29808787
>>29808841

>>29809079
> (Mind) chosen.

Please give me 1d100 +20.

Rolled 59 + 20

>>29809100

Rolled 93 + 20

>>29809100

Rolled 26

>>29809100
rollan

Rolled 46 + 20

>>29809100

Rolled 62 + 20

>>29809100
MIND POWERS

Rolled 42 + 20

>>29809100

>>29809117
>>29809114
Average success!
Writing.

>>29809178
You buckle down defensively as the enemy circles slowly. It's a slow dance as they move in steady, graceful motions, and their arms raise - and a glowing sphere appears in both their hands. You raise your shield -
>Perk Activated: Willing Iron
- And feel the ray of pure heat lance off of it and into the side of the building, burning a perfect hole. But the second you miss, and while you raise your gauntlet you feel the spell burn into your shoulder painfully. You feel the flesh there bubble and burn as you turn to him, and both draw long swords, which glow with a steady heat. They have to be using a dueling-inspired style with sword and magic, enchantment and ray. And with you outnumbered, forced to defend the prince (Still cowering), you're at the definite disadvantage.

>Rush one down as best you can - they don't have protection! (might)
>Aim to break the magic on their weapons (Magic)
>Maintain defense, but poke at the one not attacking you. (Mind)

>>29809413
>>Aim to break the magic on their weapons (Magic)

>>29809413
>Aim to break the magic on their weapons (Magic)

Rolled 3 + 20

>>29809413
>Aim to break the magic on their weapons (Magic)

Magic bure-ka-!

>>29809413
>>Aim to break the magic on their weapons (Magic)

>>29809413
>>Rush one down as best you can - they don't have protection! (might)
Killsmash

>>29809511
>>29809494
>>29809488
>>29809452

Give me 1d100 + 10 please.

Rolled 81 + 10

>>29809590
Allah give me strength!

Rolled 65 + 10

>>29809590

File: 1390782751586.jpg-(674 KB, 960x720, 0ad00b947d1dff25a53f55266(...).jpg)

674 KB JPG

Rolled 13 + 10

>>29809590

Rolled 28 + 10

>>29809590
Oh bugger.

>>29809609
>>29809604
Average success

Writing.

Rolled 93 + 10

>>29809590

>>29809643
Fine. This doesn't /usually/ work, and you're loathe to try it, but these guys probably aren't amatuers. Most enchantments work on a 'gossamer' construct, where a thin layer of magic is layered over the weapon and constantly outputs whatever force is desired. In some cases it is raw magical energy, in others, it's heat like this. In any case, you normally can't break Gossamers. However, well-made ones output just enough...

You raise your shield as one rushes you, swinging hard. Even several feet away, the blade feels like a furnace as you block it-
>Minor success

>Perk Activated

And with a projection of will, turn it inward. You grin wide as it works as you thought it might, melting the blade entirely within moments. The enemy backs off, screaming as his hand is covered with molten steel, fleeing the room.

Well, either way, that's the last you'll see of him. You turn to the other, who raises his arm and prepares a pulse of heat for you - which you block.

>Average success

>Perk Activated

And send right back into his face and head. A circular hole, created by magics he never thought he'd need to defend, smokes from both ends of his head as he falls over.

The Prince has seen better days, mentally, shaking near the door.

>Comfort - Try to get him mentally sound again to return to the castle.
>Speed - Carry him. The assassins probably called it off.
>Examine - Take a look at the holey assassin's face.

>>29809931
>Examine - Take a look at the holey assassin's face.

>>29809931
Princess carry him back to the castle.

>>29809931
>Speed - Carry him. The assassins probably called it off.
Let's rock and roll, bitch.

>>29809931
>Speed - Carry him. The assassins probably called it off.
We can comfort later, when there aren't any more assassins around.

>>29809931

>Speed - Carry him. The assassins probably called it off.

Safety first. Better to report to superiors as well.

>>29810014
We need our hands free in case of a fight. Fireman's carry or over the shoulder.

>>29809931
> Examine - Take a look at the holey assassin's face.

>>29809931
>Speed - Carry him. The assassins probably called it off.

His security is our primary concern

>>29810059
Maybe he's mentally capable enough to grip his arms round us. Then we can just piggyback him away.

And threaten him if he tries to touch our tits.

>>29809931
>>Speed - Carry him. The assassins probably called it off.
get him safe, then we can worry about him more

>>29809931
>Examine - see if we can confirm who these guys are.

>>29809931
>>Speed - Carry him. The assassins probably called it off.

>>29810190
>>29810089
>>29810059
>>29810051
>>29810047
>>29810024
Writing

File: 1390784957473.png-(1.31 MB, 850x855, Karl.png)

1.31 MB PNG

>>29810261
You pick him up and throw him over your shoulder carefully as you run back out. Yep - the archers are gone. Seems they were there to smoke the two of you into the building. You quickly return to the castle, taking it at a sprint. William runs to you, patting at your burned shoulder carefully.
"You're smoking."

"Deadly habit." you return, setting the prince down. "We were hit in the town."

"Is he injured?"

"No. Damn good scare, though." you say, gingerly touching your shoulder. Some of the skin flakes off. "Damn good mages, though." you say as you wince.

"We'll have Karl take good care of you." William says. "Sire, retire to your room now."

He nods, running off. "Not even a 'thank you'." he grumbles.

"Well, he was assaulted in town." you say, finding it hard to believe you're defending the idiot.

William leads you into the infirmary and-
Well, now. That's a welcome sight. A strong, tanned upper body, with smooth covering well-maintained muscles. He rises, shutting his book and putting on a shirt - damnation - and walking over.
"Are you injured?" he asks.

>Yes.
>I'll be fine, just give me a magic-patch to slap on it.
>No, William's over-reacting.
>Yes, please treat me.

>>29810595
>>Yes.

Magic burn on the shoulder, not bad but fix it please.

>I'll be fine, just give me a magic-patch to slap on it.

>>29810595
>Yes, please treat me.

Let the hunk doctor treat her for a while, she deserved it.

>>29810595
YES
BEEFCAKE.

>>29810595
>Yes.

"Got hit in the shoulder, ray spell."

And take our shirt off so he can actually get a good look at it.

>>29810595
>Yes.
"Terribly so, Doctor..."

"Will you require that I remove my upper garments?

>>29810595
>>Yes, please treat me.

>>29810595
>No, my shoulder is supposed to be somking.

>>29810595
> Well, now. That's a welcome sight. A strong, tanned upper body, with smooth covering well-maintained muscles. He rises, shutting his book and putting on a shirt - damnation - and walking over.

Down girl. Remember what we told ourselves. He'd have to be able to beat us in a duel first.

>>29810595
>>Yes.

>>29810719
Girls can look and not touch just like dudes.

>>29810595
>Yes.

>>29810719
That's a silly restriction. Just because they don't match us in martial skill doesn't mean we can't sleep with them.

They still have to be skilled in some field, and otherwise a man we like, but strength of magic or mind is just as respectable as strength of arms.

Besides, we're just looking.

>>29810595
>Yes, (slow smile) please treat me.

>>29810759
>>29810731
>>29810694
>>29810702
>>29810688
>>29810636
Writing.

>>29810837
Calm thyself, oh beating heart. You keep telling yourself that, but there's something about arms like that that makes you want to fall into them, and a chest that makes you want to touch it... You smile as best you can - Which, let's be honest, isn't that great - and shoo out William.
"I, yes." you manage, mentally chiding yourself. It has been /ages/, and you are frankly out of practice when it comes to men. "Burn wound."

He inspects it, thoughtful.
"Remove the outer layer, please." he says. His voice isn't really silky or smooth, it's more like gravel and sand. It sounds like his vocal cords are worn and tired as you set aside your armor, then your shirt, leaving you in a very plain, white undershirt. A little part of you dies inside at the realization of how small you are, compared to many ladies your age. He doesn't seem to pay much attention, inspecting the wound with thought.

"Hrmn. Well. It isn't hexed." he says, hexed wounds magically unhealable. "I'll give you a patch to handle it." he says, slathering some green, glowing stuff to a bandage and wrapping it with care.

"That seems about right."

>Thanks.
>>...Would you like to go to the garden tonight? To chat! To chat.
>>I suppose I'll be seeing a lot of you.
>>Is that going to be all?
>Talk (Writein)
>Leave
>Writein

>>29811022
>>>I suppose I'll be seeing a lot of you.

>>29811022
>I suppose I'll be seeing a lot of you.

>>29811022
>I suppose I'll be seeing a lot of you.
Let's see how Prince Fucknugget is holding up.

>>29811022
>Thanks
>Can I get your name, I'll be seeing you a lot if today is any indication.

(I know the picture has his name but we don't know that.

>>29811022
>>Thanks
>>>I suppose I'll be seeing a lot of you.

>>29811076
William said the name in >>29810595

>>29811022
Still supporting introductions and
>>I suppose I'll be seeing a lot of you.

>>29811022
>Thanks
>>I suppose I'll be seeing a lot of you...hopefully not always for repair.

>>29811133
Oops, I read that twice just to make sure too damnit.

>>29811121
>>29811076
>>29811073
>>29811055
>>29811048
>>29811137
>>29811137
Writing.

>>29811022
"Do you, erm, see a lot of this sort of thing?"

"I'm Annelin, by the way."

>>29811022
>>>I suppose I'll be seeing a lot of you.

>>29811154
"Thanks," you nod to him, "I'm sure I'll be seeing a lot of you." you realize how that /could/ be taken, and stammer out a "N-not just for m-medical reasons, of course."

He smiles back. Oh, you /would/ like to see a lot of him. Especially the rest of him.
"Of course." he replies. "I live here as well."

"I'm Annelin."

"Ah, the new Prince Guard. Welcome to the job. First day and a new injury already. How wonderfully ominous."

"Yeah... Speaking of that."

"Yes, you best had see how he's doing." he says. "We'll see each other again later."

You dress yourself and head out, a smile on your face as you put the helmet back on and march up to the young man's room.

It opens to the Prince, who smiles.
"I, ah... Anne." he says. "Please, come in."

>I'll stay out here. Thanks.
>It's Annelin, thank you.
>>And I'm staying out here.
>Thanks. (Enter)
>Come with me. We have to train.
>Writein

>>29811318
>>Thanks. (Enter)
>>Come with me. We have to train.
Confirm he is decent before entering.

>>29811318
>It's Annelin, thank you. (Enter)

Rolled 85

>>29811318
Is there a woman in there?

>>29811318
"I'd prefer Annalin. Never liked any of the Anne's I've met."

"Thank you." as we walk in.

>>29811421

This.

>>29811421
Supporting

>>29811318
>>It's Annelin, thank you.

>>29811421
This is fine

>>29811318
>It's Annelin, thank you.

Head in, take off our helmet and smile back at him.

Then ask if he's holding up alright.

>>29811527
>>29811512
>>29811421
>>29811390
Writing.

>>29811550
"I'm Annelin, thank you." you say, taking off the helmet and entering the room. It's surprisingly spartan - a small magical image of the young man's family on the bedside table, a book under it about economics and trade routes in the South continent... His official outfit hangs on the inside of the door, even, and he's dressed as a civilian as well.

"What - you expected a young lady in the bed?"

"To be totally honest? A little."

he sighs, sitting in a rotating desk chair.
"Don't take me for a Clown, Annelin." he says, "It's... Well. I don't intend for those things to happen."

"So what, you trip and fall into their britches?" you asked, raising your eyebrows.

"No, I just... Look - let's drop it." you nod. "I'm sorry for losing it back there. You needed someone to help you, and you got hurt defending me."

>It's my job. Don't apologize.
>Don't worry. I'll be fine.
>>It's not like you'd have been much help.
>I didn't expect your help - I planned around it.

File: 1390787570401.jpg-(100 KB, 798x999, sample-a98e108412d94279a8(...).jpg)

100 KB JPG

>>29811721

>Don't worry. I'll be fine.
>>It's not like you'd have been much help.

>>29811721
>It's my job. Don't apologize.

>>29811721
>>It's my job. Don't apologize.

Rolled 9, 6, 9 = 24

>>29811721
>It's my job. Don't apologize.

>>29811721
>Write in
"Honestly, it was probably for the best. Since we just met I have no idea what your skill level actually is or how best to work with you in a fight. You trying to get in on the action would have made you mobile and thus harder to guards, meaning I'd have had to devote more attention to watching your back than eliminating our opponents. I don't mean to cast any doubts on your abilities or courage, I just want you to know that in that situation you actually made the right choice. Now, follow me so we can start your training and hopefully, in time, I'll have you prepared to join me in battle. I hope you're prepared for what's to come."

>>29811721
>Don't worry. I'll be fine.
>I said it was the first lesson, didn't I? I didn't expect you to be a flawless instrument of death right out of the gate.
"You wanted me to help you improve. Expecting you to take to it as if you were a veteran would be a little too much to ask."

>>29811721
>>It's my job. Don't apologize.

>>29811721
Give him a short laugh and sit down somewhere, the bed if there aren't any nice chairs.

"It's my job to keep your safe, and no one should ever get into a fight and expect that they won't get hurt. It's a small injury, nothing to worry about, a small price to pay.

You did exactly what you should've done Prince, you didn't get in the way, you stayed in a place where I could keep you safe. One day you may be stronger, but until that day you should rely on me, I don't intend on failing you."

We should probably get the prince's full name at some point.

>>29811721
>>It's not like you'd have been much help.

>>29811721
This >>29811982

And ask what he was going to say before he apologized if we get a chance.

>>29811799
>>29811854
>>29811876
>>29811982
>>29811944
>>29811960
>>29812126
Writing.

>>29812171
Will return after a break.

>>29812205
"It's my job, don't apologize."

"Well, yeah, but-"

"Don't. Don't 'but' me. There was no way you could have stopped them - they were experienced, trained swordmagi. I imagine the gap there was similar to the gab between myself and your father."

He looks downcast.
"I get hurt in every fight I go into. These scars on my face, they're proof of that. The same goes for when I'll be guarding you in the future. I don't expect to go unscathed."

"I don't want to be helpless."

"Good. Then I can train you. Get up, put on something solid, and meet me in the garden."

He smiles at you, handsome even despite his ineptitude. You respond to it with one of your own - "I'll make a man of you yet."

His face falls as you close the door, striding confidently through the halls through a long exhibition of various items.

>Roll 1d100, please, for random possible event.

Rolled 47

>>29812907

Rolled 89

>>29812907
Hoping for crit fail

Rolled 78

>>29812907

Rolled 31

>>29812907
Rolling.

And given that we're training outside we might want to take off some of our armor to avoid getting too hot. I'm not really worried about his safety too much in the middle of the palace, it'll be more comfortable, and he'll probably be more relaxed if we're not in full battle dress.

>>29812907
>Roll 1d100, please, for random possible event.

>>29813000
>>29812993
>>29812975
>Nothing below 25
>HORRIBLE PAST reminder avoided.

You stride into the garden, setting aside your gauntlets and sabatons for now. Don't want to scare the boy. He emerges in his own leather armor - and he looks so scrawny and tiny you can't help but chuckle. He looks more like a rogue than a proper fighter.

"Alright. you reach up and remove your spear's head - it's built in such a way so mainenance is easy, and once it's on, magical wiring holds it in place. You lazily toss the now-staff at the Prince, who catches it after some bumbling between his hands.

>Let's work on his stance. (Mind training)
>Let's work on his swings. (Might training)
>(Magic training not available at this juncture.)

>>29813085
>>Let's work on his stance. (Mind training)

>>29813085
>Let's work on his stance. (Mind training)
A proper foundation before anything else

>>29813085
>Let's work on his stance. (Mind training)
He's got that infinite cut blade, so strength won't be important yet.

>>29813085
>Let's work on his stance. (Mind training)

>>29813085
>>Let's work on his stance. (Mind training)

>>29813085
>Let's work on his stance. (Mind training)

This is what we know best, and we need to get him a solid foundation before we move on.

Have him show us his stance and then physically move him into proper place while explaining the meaning behind what we're doing. Make sure his grip is good as well. Firm, but relaxed, if you clench your muscles you're just going to work against yourself.

Also, he's rather agile, not much of a straight fighter, but he's quick, so we should focus on training him to be mobile, to never take hits straight on, and otherwise make use of his speed.

>>29813159
>>29813137
>>29813132
>>29813130
>>29813113

Give me 1d100.

Rolled 76

>>29813182

Rolled 11

>>29813182

Rolled 16

>>29813182