>Speak to defend Alm and his friends.
>Throw an orange at Fernand, assert dominance through vitamin C (-1 Orange)
>Also, Charge him for the Orange we threw


This hothead needs to exit stage right already... Lukas and Clair don't even seem to put up a fight as he just berates people fighting for their lives, and in your case, for money... Maybe he's a rich noble, but even the rich need to learn some respect...

You reach back into your bag, right hand clutching one of the oranges you'd taken from Ram village, smirking. Fernand has no idea who he's dealing with, if he's a hothead, two can play at that game.

"Honestly, I'm not even with this "Deliverance" in the first place!" You begin. "We keep bumping into each other... But Lukas here saved my tush once before, and Alm here? He's a real deal fighter. His friends aren't far behind, either. Now... What have YOU done, huh?" You point at Fernand with your free hand. "All I've seen you do is come in and ACT high and mighty. No proof, sir Fernand, no proof at all. Judging by your armor, and that... You call that hair, right?" Fernand's brow somehow furrows deeper at the comment on his appearance. "You've got yourself a lot of money, don't you? Well..." You take a deep breath, placing your finger on your chin in true Anna-family fashion. Then you quickly remove your hand from your pack. "Catch!"

Fernand can't react fast enough to the orb of vitamin-C hurling at him, the orange knocks him straight in the face, and the nobleman nearly falls off his horse in surprise. The fruit lands on the ground, now heavily bruised.

You have lost one orange.

Everyone is staring at you, Lukas and Clair look angry, Alm looks astonished, Tobin and Gray have shown up and seem to be holding back intense laughter. Silque and Faye aren't watching, but they seem nervous. Fernand, as expected, looks like he's about to impale your head on his lance.

"You... dare... to insult me? Who in the gods' names do you THINK YOU ARE!?" He screams.

You're still smiling, you need to at the least look unfazed, right?

"Fernand- er, lord Fernand? Let's go with that. My name is Anna, and I think you should know that wealth and standing are a more respected trait when you've actually earned it. Soon, I'm going to be richer than you. All I have is food and some weapons, but give me time and I'll surpass even you. By the way, the orange will be 250 gold. It was premium straight from the trees."

"Hmph! Well, Anna, I'll pay you once YOU pay for such insolence! should we meet again alone together, I'll have your head for such a rude display, do you hear me? ...Lukas, don't even THINK about recruiting this woman, she's a damn cur, and I hope I never see her associating with our army ever again!" With that, Fernand turns around and rides off, leaving you alone with the others.

You finally realize who you're making an enemy out of. But causing a scene like this is incredibly likely to give you the trust of Alm and company.

(cont)

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198 KB PNG

Lukas, however, doesn't seem too happy.

"Miss Anna, might I ask, why would you be so rude!?" He scolds.

"Me? Rude? How long have you let a rich jerk treat you so lowly? Lukas, you people said a few moments ago that you were suspicious of me, if I really didn't think you people were great, then why would I go to great lengths like this? That orange was premium!"

Clair shakes her head. "Fernand is troubled by those lower than him, we were prepared to just let it be, now that he's angry... Things might get difficult, he's one of our leader's right hand men."

"Now he's going to give Alm an even harder time..." Faye chimes in. "And I don't want bad things happening to him!"

Alm sighs, putting a hand on your shoulder. "Hey, Anna? Thanks for defending me, really. I'm sure I can put up with the wrath of some pompous knight..." Alm smiles, the air seems to have calmed a bit. Lukas doesn't look as mad anymore.

(cont)

After some more catching up, the group starts to head out. Gray runs up to you with a bag, by the sounds it makes, its filled with gold.

"Anna! Mind giving me a fortune for the road? I'm still not entirely sure who my fated soulmate is, you're not leaving us already are you?"

>Give him a fortune (+600 Gold)
>"Sure thing, but it's been a little while... You need to pay interest." (Roll 1d100 best of 3 for persuasion)

Oof, forgot to add gold to the character sheet. That's probably needed.

https://pastebin.com/GmtFrx2X Sheet Updated with that and the recent developments.

>Tell his fortune

>>1966717

"Oh? Gray? Well, alright. Before you go I guess I could real quick. You have to pay me this time."

Gray looks rather eager, tossing you the bag of money.

You received 600 gold, you now have 1600 gold total!

...

You take Gray's palms once more. Closing your eyes.

"Oh, merciful gods of the many worlds... What's up?" You ask to the "gods." After some more humming, you open your eyes, Gray looks at you hopefully.

"Your soulmate, Gray, it's not entirely clear to me. But I saw them for a split second, in a vision!" You start speaking more dramatically, to drive home the feeling that you speak the truth. "She was... Utterly dazzling, but... To someone of your status, they seem untouchable! Someone born higher."

Gray's face deflates a little.

"But a soulmate is a soulmate! Don't give up until you've got the girl of your dreams! Love is one of the most vital pursuits in life, if you need more readings, or dating advice (sold separately), come right to me, Gray." You attempt to cheer him up. It seems to work, he looks rather confidently at Clair.

"Alright, I'm narrowing down the suspects. Thanks again, Anna!" Gray shouts, running off with the others who had already begun to march.

...

You follow them further for the rest of the day. They take refuge in the Deliverance hideout, which is a repurposed graveyard... There's even terrors in and around it.

You get the feeling the Deliverance isn't the most well thought out rebellion, but where else are they gonna hide out? At any rate, that's not the plan. The plan is to get to Zofia castle before the Deliverance does and do a little business, then what you get from trading with Rigel can be flipped and sold to the Deliverance. It's a perfect plan. So you continue on ahead.

It's late now, so halfway through traveling you take some time and eat. You figure the Deliverance won't march on the castle as soon as Alm arrives. But... It's happening soon. You have a feeling that if Alm can pull through, that he's the hero of the Emblem. The only thing he doesn't have is a legendary weapon, or a brand of any sort. He's special, though.

...

You think to yourself, bitterly. Alm is rather special. So are you, here at least. Back in your home, nobody was special, and all of your sisters were content with that. Now that you've struck out on your own, it's finally your chance to get your own life, your own identity. Maybe change your name... Well, maybe not. You want the other Annas to know that you staked your claim here FIRST. Rub it in their faces.

...

You lost 1 bread

...

Under the cover of Night, you keep moving, your legs are killing you, but you know it'll all be worth it.

Sure is dark, at least there's less brigands around further north... maybe that's because Rigel is keeping them at bay, at least around the castle. Though, if you've got cheap weapons, you're probably allowed right?

Yeah, you'll be fine.

File: IMG_2486.png (160 KB, 451x493)

160 KB PNG

You hear a faint metal clank, you're not sure if it's just muffled or really far off. But metal clanking doesn't happen in the wilderness like this for no reason. It startled you... With all that's gone on, it's entirely likely that whatever just clanked was dangerous.

You draw your Lance and investigate a little further ahead. There's footprints in the dirt, looking to be armor. Hey lead on a little bit before stopping when the path reforms to stone...

"Move in!" A voice shouts from behind you.

You don't have the time to defend yourself as someone knocks your Lance away and another strikes you down onto the ground, landing on your back.

You stay silent, its two Rigelian soldiers. One of them points his sword at you, the other looks really excited.

"I'm n-not a brigand! What's the meaning of this?" You plead.

They're not listening.

"It's just like the scouts described, we're so lucky!" The excited soldier says,

The other nods. "I know! And another party captured one of the Deliverance leaders too, earlier today! I bet our company's gonna get promoted!"

Oh...

It looks like the soldiers that retreated from an earlier fight reported you. That's not gonna be good for the plan. You need to think something up, fast!

>"You've got the wrong gal!"

>"Maybe we could... Strike a deal for my release?" (Persuasion)

>Try and escape, they could get distracted.

>>1967125

>”You’ve got the wrong gal!”

>>1967125
>”You’ve got the wrong gal!”

File: IMG_2488.png (84 KB, 250x223)

84 KB PNG

>>1967235
>>1967245

"You've got the wrong gal, this isn't right!" You exclaim.

The two look at eachother. "Tell it to the boss!"

"Sir Slayde's the one who ordered us to look out for any Deliverance members deserting."

"I'm serious." You say. "There are a lot of people who look just like me!" This is a lie, all of the Annas are in Archanea at this point in time. It's... complicated business.

"Even if you aren't the merchant sighted with the Deliverance member, Fernand, you're a merchant right? It's rare that Slayde is proud of any of his men, but you'll do."

It seems their boss, Slayde, is rather harsh. They think capturing you will change Slayde's opinion of them.

"Your boss, er, Sir Slayde... I'd like to speak with him, you can't just get away with accosting a simple stranger!"

"Now what have we here?" A new voice says from out of your vision. It's gruff and sinister sounding. It's source kneels down to examine you, his face is a twisted smirk, his armor is more dignified, his hair is a purple-crimson, even his goatee. You give him a dirty look. "She's the one alright, red ponytail, sighted twice trailing behind a Deliverance squad by retreating forces..."

"Did we do good, S-Sir?" One soldier asks nervously.

"Anyone can capture a simple goods dealer... Leave here, I'll take the prisoner."

So this is Slayde... He reminds you of Fernand, but nowhere near as neat. Still a jerk.

He stares at you, smirk growing wilder.

"Speak, girl."

>"I'm not with the Deliverance."

>"I can tell you where their hideout is, if you've got the coin for it..." (Give them a false location, you can't sell out Alm.)

>"Need supplies? I've got plenty, assuming your army can pay." (Persuasion)

>"Stop staring at me like that, creep!"

>Be silent.

>>1967388
>>"I'm not with the Deliverance."
>>"Need supplies? I've got plenty, assuming your army can pay." (Persuasion)

Time to make money

>>1967388
Need supplies? I've got plenty, assuming your army can pay." (Persuasion)

But you konw il have to chrage exrta for this one on one deals and for beening this rude

>>1967388

>"I can tell you where their hideout is, if you've got the coin for it..." (Give them a false location, you can't sell out Alm.)

>>1967499
>>1967442

Roll best of 3 for persuasion

+10 thanks to merchant class skills

Rolled 21 (1d100)

>>1968001
1d100?

Rolled 41 (1d100)

>>1968001

>>1968028
Yes, 1d100.

Sorry, should have clarified.

Rolled 24 + 10 (1d100 + 10)

>>1968001

>>1968041
>>1968028
>>1968096

>Rolled 51, barely mildly successful.

"So, need supplies? I've got plenty, assuming your army can pay."

If there's any time to make some money, it's now. Slayde looks a little confused.

"You're so eager to sell to the enemy?" He asks.

"I'm not with the Deliverance... We've just bumped into eachother a few times, honest!"

The knight scoffs, standing and walking away. "Get the hell up, I'm sure if they find you interesting then you'll be a bargain, right? But you'll have to take it up with higher command..." His smile grows wicked again. "But I'm not sure, so I'm gonna have to lock you up until the king can agree to your deal. A shame, given how pretty you are."

You roll your eyes, typical lech... So in order to get a trade deal going you'll need to wait for higher order to talk more with you. But it's gonna be hard to wait that long, since the Deliverance is gonna try and take Zofia Castle back soon.

Crud...

>He hasn't chained you up, grab your lance and try to make an escape

>Go through with this, a little jail time can't hurt, maybe they'll agree to buy!

>>1968203
>He hasn't chained you up, grab your lance and try to make an escape

>>1968203

>Go through with this, a little jail time can't hurt, maybe they'll agree to buy!

Rolled 2 (1d2)

>>1968238
>>1968225

I'm Rolling for tiebreaker

1=attempt escape
2=go to jail

File: IMG_2385.png (41 KB, 168x248)

41 KB PNG

>>1968275
>>1968238

A deal's a deal. And if you have to wait in a cell for a day to get confirmation to make money, you'll do it. All part of the plan at least.

...

Slayde places cuffs on you and takes you right to Castle Zofia's dungeon. You lost all your stock... For now... There's no way in hell you're leaving without it.

...

It's morning when he places you into a cell. Slayde laughs, telling you to "be a good girl." And leaves to do who knows what... You turn away from the cell bars with a huff. It's gonna be a long day, maybe you can find a way out of here in the commotion of the coming battle...

When you turn around, you almost yelp with surprise as your vision meets the most rage filled face you'd ever seen.

It's Fernand, still in his armor, hands cuffed. That's right, they apparently captured him too... He's certainly not glad to see you...

>Stay silent

>"Hello, Fernand."

>"Ready to pay up for that orange yet, Fernand~?"

>Write-in

>>1968339
>Sly grin,
>"Ready to pay up for that orange yet, Fernand~?"

>>1968354

Hella supporting

>>1968354
>>1968425

The two of you stare eachother down for a solid minute, then you realize...

His legs are chained to the wall... and yours aren't! He can't hurt you like he said he would. You grin, sly and wide.

"Ready to pay up for that orange, Fernand~?"

Fernand immediately shoots forward, but the chains hold him back. "Goddamn conwoman, I knew it! That's likely why you're here isn't it!?"

"I'm here because I associated with you and your friends' little army. Thanks, by the way. But hey, maybe we can talk things out and if we make it out of here, we can be friends! And you can cough up the 250 gold you owe." You laugh. This was hilarious to you. One of your big enemies? At the mercy of your words? It's like you're already rich! ...But you're not.

"Grrraah! Enough, Anna!" He keeps pulling on the chains...

"Fernand, what're you doing?"

"I can BREAK these cuffs!"

"You can't break those cuffs."

Fernand stops, and looks you dead in the eyes, before pulling even harder.

"RrrrrrraaaaaaAAAAAAAAAAAAA--"

Whoa, he's going red in the face from all the exertion... When he's done, he slumps back to the ground, the cuffs, expectedly, didn't break.

"Fernand, how did you get captured? Didn't you go where the Deliverance is hiding?"

The paladin looks up to you, eyes burning with anger.

"I left the Deliverance. I can't stand what they now hail as a leader..."

"Who...?" You ask.

"That village idiot, Alm! They think he's fit to lead the Deliverance because of his damn bloodline? He's so naive, stupid! The noble are fit to lead, that's final! So I quit, then as I departed, I was captured and ambushed..."

Fernand looks sad, in a "extremely angry but can't take it out on anything" way.

>"Alm's a much better leader than, say, you."

>"Fernand, you can mope later. I want to get us out of here."

>Write-in

>>1968549
>"Fernand, you can mope later. I want to get us out of here."

(QM here, heading off to bed. Will be back up to post in a few hours.)

>>1968549
>>"Fernand, you can mope later. I want to get us out of here."

>>1968549
>"I can BREAK these cuffs!"
>"You can't break those cuffs."
>Fernand stops, and looks you dead in the eyes, before pulling even harder.
>"RrrrrrraaaaaaAAAAAAAAAAAAA--"

I love you

>>1968936
>>1969733
Also these

>>1969733
>>1968936
>>1969761

"Fernand! You can mope later, I want to get us out of here." You say heroically.

"And how do you think you'll do that?

You'll think of something.

The lock is primitively made, you could break this thing open if you gave enough force...

The guard outside is reading a book, looking intensely focused.

Some more guards come over, open your cell, and walk in. "You're coming with us!" One of them yells.

You walk forward, see? All you had to was wait patiently-

"Not you, woman! Fernand!"

Fernand looks up, still angrily frowning. They uncuff him and proceed to move him out of the cell, he gives you a devilish grin, like he has the last laugh. And he may very well have it, seeing as Desaix could be executing him now.

When he's out, he turns to the guard reading.

"Make sure she suffers." Fernand orders, chuckling before walking away with the soldiers.

"Lucky motherfucker..." You swear under your breath.

You go over to the window, in the distance, you can faintly see a rather large force approaching the castle, a mile off still.

Alm's the leader of the Deliverance now. That's a huge undertaking. But you have a feeling he's a perfect fit. He's getting closer and closer to being the hero you're looking for.

You're not gonna sit around and wait for the Deliverance to break you out. You need an audience with Desaix if you want your deal, even if you don't have time you can at least loot the castle during the commotion. It's not thievery if nobody owns the building, right?

>Get guard's attention.

>Find a way to break these cuffs that doesn't involve physically exhausting yourself.

>>1969922

>Get guard’s attention

Testing

>>1969922
>>Get guard's attention.

>>1969944
>>1969952

You walk over to the bars, you can see the guard.

>”What’re you reading?”

>”I might have items you want y’know... If you let me out, a discount is yours for sure.” (Persuasion)

>”Let me out of here or I’ll make sure my friends at the Deliverance end you.”

>Write-in

>>1969956
>>”What’re you reading?”

>>1969956
>>”What’re you reading?”

>>1969956
>>”What’re you reading?”

>>1969995
>>1970007
>>1970050

“What’re you reading?” You ask him.

The guard doesn’t seem to hear you the first time. You ask again, louder. He jumps and fumbles his novel.

“O-oh! This? Well... It’s a classic! Just an old novelization of the war between Mila and Duma-“ He stops, turning away. “Wait, you’re the prisoner... I can’t talk to you like this, right?”

He seems nervous. You’ve read that book before, when you were researching this place.

“Well, sure I’m a prisoner, but it’s just a book! It’s not like I’m trying to escape.” You are. “But, I thought I recognized what you were reading. So I had to ask!”

The guard smiles. “R-really? I mean, I know this is a war and all... But everyone else in my company thinks reading is stupid these days... Now that we’ve occupied this castle, I wanted to go see it’s library, it’s supposed to be huge here! But... Off limits to anyone who isn’t Desaix or Lord Berkut...”

Berkut. That’s a new name...

“Hmm...” You think. “I could get you a book or two from there, if you let me out of course! If I take the books, your masters won’t get angry!” You put on your customer winning smile. The guard looks around.

“Mm... I’m not sure... Well, you said you’re not REALLY with the enemy, right? I don’t really get this. Why occupy a castle and not let the soldiers take anything? ...I’ll let you out, but I’m not giving you your things until you bring me a copy of “Make Her Fall For You In A Fortnite.”

“Deal, or my name isn’t Anna! ...What’s your name?”

“Nathan. Remember me, okay?”

...

Nathan lets you out of the cell, you depart the dungeon and go to the hall.

What should you do first?

>Go get the book. You need your stock back before the battle.

>Go catch up with Fernand

>Get out of here and rendezvous with the Deliverance.

>>1970167
>>Go get the book. You need your stock back before the battle.

>>1970167
>>Go get the book. You need your stock back before the battle.

>>1970181
>>1970242

Nathan’s book is your priority. It sounds like some cheesy love advice book... You’re not much of a book critic, never been one for reading. But a deal’s a deal. No matter how trivial. The customer is always (mostly) right.

...

You find the library on the 2nd floor of the castle, you’ve managed to avoid the guard’s thus far. But there’s 2 right outside the library doors. There’s no avoiding this.

Lucky for you, the armory had a spare Rigelian set. It’s... Kinda big on you. You try to walk through the doors, and as expected, the two soldiers block your path.

“Halt, the library is off limits. Desaix and Berkut are on the balcony there, overseeing the battle. What’s your business?”

>Persuade them to move (roll 1d100+10 best of 3)

>Try a new disguise

Rolled 45 + 10 (1d100 + 10)

>>1970357
>>Persuade them to move (roll 1d100+10 best of 3)

Rolled 88 + 10 (1d100 + 10)

>>1970357

Persuade

>>1970457

Name got reset, was testing roll, post above doesn’t count. Thanks phoneposting.

Rolled 47 + 10 (1d100 + 10)

>>1970357
Persuade them to move (roll 1d100+10 best of 3)

>>1970461
Was that for or argest us?

>>1970587

It was a test roll, doesn’t count. But it would’ve been for us. Typing now.

Rolled 71 (1d100)

>>1970357

>>1970641
Oh god
Y we always get 40s

>>1970464
>>1970372

>>1970372

>Rolled 55, mildly successful.

“I left my lance in here. A mistake on my part.”

The guards look at eachother. Then step aside. “Go quickly, we wouldn’t want to anger the Chancellor and his guests.”

You smile and step inside, the doors shut behind you.

...

“The M section, let’s see... M... A... J... There!” You found it, quickly pulling the book out.

The cover reads:

“Make her fall for you in a fortnite! The ultimate 4-step guide from C to S rank for men!”

You stuff the book down your armor, turning to head out.


“So this is the so-called Deliverance. What a disheveled herd of clodhoppers!” A Voice rings out, on the balcony.

You peek out, Fernand is standing next to two men and a woman. One of the men is fat and wearing crimson armor, you assume he’s Desaix. You don’t know anything about the man in black armor who just spoke, or the blue haired lady holding his hand.

“I couldn’t agree more. Find a comfortable seat, Lord Berkut. The Empire’s finest general need not trouble himself with such rabble. You may watch from on high as my finest troops cut them down like wheat.” Desaix laughs, he’s certainly cocky.

“I may just take you up on that offer. Shall we, Rinea?” Berkut asks.

“I have no desire to see such bloodshed. War is horrible, and I will make no spectacle of it.” The lady, Rinea, says sadly.

Desaix says farewell to the three and departs, presumably to fight. He lumbers past you, but doesn’t seem to notice...

>Keep listening in on Berkut, Rinea, and Fernand.

>Go get the book to Nathan.

>Follow Desaix

>>1970642

Oof, I posted before your roll. Well, at least we were successful.

Sorry I’ve been taking longer to update, anons. Was busy today, but work is done.

>>1970832
>>Go get the book to Nathan.

>>1970832
>Go get the book to Nathan

>>1970914
>>1970859

It appears Fernand's got some sort of lease on life for now, you'll figure out what he's up to later...

Once Desaix leaves the room, you swipe a Lance sitting around and head back.

...

"I knew it! Man, there aren't copies of this anywhere where I'm from. Someone should make more!" Nathan exclaims, flipping through the pages.

"Well, Sir Nathan, a deal's a deal. And you've gotta go fight soon, right?"

Nathan nods. "Of course! Hey, if I make it out of here I gotta repay you a little more. Alright?"

Nathan puts his books away, grabs his weapons, and heads out after thanking you.

...

You got all of your stock and gold back!

You also added a Rigelian armor set and a steel Lance to your stock.

...

All set. The battle's begun outside, you're not sure what to do...

>Put the armor back on, do more snooping around for stock

>Figure out a way to help the Deliverance from the inside

>>1971017
>>Figure out a way to help the Deliverance from the inside

>>1971017
>Figure out a way to help the Deliverance from the inside
Keep thr armor and start giving bad orders

>>1971057
>>1971027

You hatch a plan, putting all that armor back on. You know that the enemy is going to be defending the main gate, but a smaller gate to the east is defended as well. You tell as many soldiers as you can see to fortify the main gate, once you're sure the coast is clear, you unlock the metal latches of the side gate. Hopefully the main Deliverance forces will come through here.

"Hey you! Halt, right now!" While you were occupied, it seems Slayde's caught sight of you.

"Oh, hi Sir Slayde!" You put on a slightly deeper voice, hoping he won't immediately recognize you. "I'm just- uh... Keeping this route open in case we need to retreat, since the Deliverance is attacking the MAIN gate. I'll be right there, you should g-go!"

Slayde is staring right through you. You stare back, praying that nothing escalates. Finally he backs off.

"I've got to go fetch my horse, hurry up with the preparations will you?" And with that, he runs off.

You take a deep breath, peeking over the roof.

You can see all the combatants lined up at the main gate, but the majority of Deliverance fighters being led by a familiar green haired boy are headed towards this one. Only a few archers are defending this point.

Your plan is working!

...

"We have to break open this gate!" You hear someone say. Now's your cue to be smug. You thrust it open the door.

"No need, guys. I've got you covered!" You shout, you put your armor away of course, wouldn't want friendly fire upon you. The Deliverance soldiers cheer and charge onward. You spot Alm, who's leading the pack. He gives you a look of determination, not really caring how or why you're here yet. You decide you're going to fight with him this time, for real.

...

You're not that great a fighter, but then again you're not doing all the work and most of Desaix's detachment has retreated. Everything seems to be ending in a total victory for Alm's army.

You rush forward, finding Alm again. He's staring down Slayde, now mounted and ready for combat. Slayde laughs, seeing the both of you.

"What's this? So you really were with this rebellion after all?" You nod, this pretty much counts as taking their side. "And you!" He points his blade at Alm. "I recognize you, you're one of the runts I met at that village, who tried to stop me!"

Alm's brow furrows. It seems they've met in the past.

"You were the knight who tried to kidnap Celica..." Alm muses, angrily.

"There's no Mycen around to save you, boy, merchant. I want to take a little revenge on you both!"

Alm and Slayde both move forward. Clashing blades. You know now who the good guys and bad guys in this scheme are. You're gonna help the hero.

>Focus on attacking Slayde

>Focus on defending Alm

(Roll 1d100 for success)

Rolled 43 (1d100)

>>1971320
>>>Focus on attacking Slayde

Rolled 91 (1d100)

>>1971320

>Focus on defending Alm

Thought we would have been hinding somehwrre looting
And not fighting but oh well

>>1971583

>Rolled 91, highly successful

The two spend some time battling, you stand back from it. Waiting for just the right time to catch Slayde off guard...

Alm looks quite exhausted, only barely able to block Slayde's quicker attacks. When he finally gets the chance to attack, his swing is just too slow. Slayde turns and stabs at Alm point blank.

Almost as if it's in slow motion, with everything aligned, you sprint forth and hold your iron lance out in front of you. Slayde's blade clashes with yours, hooked in. He looks surprised.

You look over your shoulder at Alm, who nods to you with a glint of determination in his eyes. "This ends HERE!" He yells, the lightning blade regaining its glow. Alm's attack connects with Slayde, producing loud sparks.

The knight is knocked back, looking very beaten up. He can't seem to hold his Lance straight. "I- impossible! This is neither the time nor place for me to die…" Slayde looks around him, most of his troops are surrendering. "D-don't think you can gloat yet! I can still retreat with Desaix! Next our armies face, we can pulverize you!" Slayde shouts, riding off towards the other retreating forces.

You start running after him, but Alm stops you. "Anna, we've no hope of catching up to him..."

Darn, he's right. Well... You lower your weapon. The fighting is over now...

Alm places a hand on your shoulder, he looks concerned with something. "Anna? I've been meaning to ask you-" before he can get the words out, cheering soldiers surround the two of you. Practically carrying Alm away.

A blonde knight approaches you with a smile. "I knew making him the new leader was a good choice... No need to introduce yourself, Anna, I knew I had to meet you when I'd heard you socked Fernand in the face with an orange... So, you've helped our army a fair amount. I am Clive, the captain of the Knights of Zofia. And I was the leader of the Deliverance... Pleasure to meet you. Lukas was actually hoping you would show up again. Now that we're in a good position... The Deliverance is looking to buy."

Suddenly, all you can see is gold coins.

(continued)

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>>1971702

(Continued)

A little earlier, on a library balcony overlooking the battle...

"Pathetic. The chancellor is all talk." Berkut scoffs.

"What shall we do now, my lord?" Fernand asks him.

Fernand was especially angry, having caught sight of an all too familiar merchant in the ranks of the Deliverance.

"We cannot hold the castle with my detachment alone. We must retreat. Fernand, you stay with me. We’ll join up with our main force in the forest."

"Yes, my lord!" Fernand stands from his seat, grabbing his items and leaving,

Berkut watches a little longer. "…You have made an impression, Alm. Yes you have."

...

At the present time, you are currently discussing options for selling your stock to the Deliverance with Lukas and Clive. Alm and friends are still celebrating.

"It's going to be a long march forth... You may not have much right now, but your provisions are much needed. Name your price." Clive says.

>Sell all provisions (worth: 2400 gold)

>"Well, Clive, what about weapons?"

>Write-in

>>1971795
>Sell all provisions (worth: 2400 gold)
>>"Well, Clive, what about weapons?"
Y not do both.
Not to mention the books that are here

>>1971805

"I'll take the offer for provisions, but what about weapons? I've got some!" You tell them.

Lukas shakes his head. "Well, Anna, you may have many excellent weapons, but we are fully stocked on those. Provisions are our main worry."

Phooey. Looks like they won't take your iron... You briefly ponder selling books from the library to them, but... If they own the castle now, they own the library.

That reminds you, Nathan... You hope he made out safely, he wasn't so bad. Plus, he still technically owes you.

You hand over the bag carrying all your food items, Clive makes sure to give you 2400 gold. Exactly. Pretty damn swell.

You step out of the small room where the three of you had met. Crowds of soldiers, nobles, and commoners all crowd the castle in celebration.

You need to find Alm, he had questions for you, and you're now sure that the hero of the Emblem is him.

Past many spectators, you find the green haired boy at the throne room. Greeting some old man.

"This is my first time at the castle, sir. My grandfather, Sir Mycen, spoke of it sometimes." Alm says.

"The Zofia general?" The old timer looks surprised, and... Skeptical.

"Er... Yes, I'm his grandson, Alm! He used to live here, didn't he?"

"Well..." The aging man begins. "I knew him quite well, Mycen had neither wife nor child."

"Huh...?" Alm takes a step back.

Uh oh. Is your Hero Of The Emblem a sham after all...?

Clive takes Alm's shoulder, having heard what he had to say. "Now hold on, Alm is certainly related to--"

"I assure you, he said "I have no family." Clear as day!"

Clive and the man argue quietly.

"But wait... If I'm not..."

"Pay him no mind, Alm." Clive reassures. "He's likely confused, this was all long ago..."

Clive and the man walk away.

"Alm, hey?" You greet. He turns around and smiles at you, it's easy to tell that it's not genuine.

"Hey... Anna..."

>"That was strange, I don't believe that old guy."

>"You said you wanted to ask me something earlier?"

>"So how's it feel, big hero~?"

>>1972069

>"So how's it feel, big hero~?"
To have blood on your hands
Also how you going to rebuild the place once you d one

>>1972069

>You said you wanted to ask me something earlier?

Rolled 1 (1d2)

>>1972091
>>1972108

Tiebreaker roll, activated!

1=big hero
2=straight to the point

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>>1972091
>>1972132

"So, how's it feel being a real big hero?" You ask slyly.

Alm blushes faintly. "Oh? It's nothing special... I'm held in high regard, but... You heard right? I've decided. The Deliverance should march on into a full war."

So, Alm's taking the operation all the way. He doesn't seem entirely happy about it, no doubt there's gonna be some major blood on his hands.

"Hey, Alm, don't worry. What you're doing is leading you down the right path, okay? Just be careful not to turn into one of the villains you seek to defeat." You give him sincere advice. Alm looks up at you suddenly.

"Well, at the least, I feel confident leading them now. They trust me... I'm glad I can trust you, even if you're not officially a part of our forces. Anna, about before--"

"Go ahead and ask, Alm."

"Anna... Why are you helping me?"

You frown. That's a pointed question.

>"On top of a good cause, its profitable."

>"I want to help you see your destiny through."

>"I can't tell you why, but I will continue."

>Write-in

>>1972158

>"On top of a good cause, its profitable."

>>1972179

"On top of a good cause? You're profitable." You hold up your bag full of gold pieces. "Your buddy Clive paid a fortune for all my food!"

Alm frowns. "That's... Hm... Anna, don't you feel bad? Exploiting war for profit like this? You went as far as to unlock a gate from behind enemy lines! I just... Don't get it!"

"Alm, you said you had a destiny? I have one too. I'm gonna be richer than rich, the richest in my family, and I'm going to do it all on my own."

Get rich or die trying.

Alm nods in understanding. "I won't get in your way, but you be careful yourself."

The two of you look away, the air growing more awkward.

>Ask about Alm's past with Slayde.

>Ask more about Celica.

>Let him be, he's had a longer day than even you.

>>1972270
Let him be, he's had a longer day than even you.
I mean he is going to prforit much more then you will once he wins

>>1972315
I mean give him shit about without people like you they would naver have wepons or shit to even fight back in the frist place.
And that his going to more power and money then you from this

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>>1972270

"Well, Alm, without people like me you may not have victory spoils in the first place. In a way, you're going to profit much more from my help..."

With that you wave at him, walking off. Alm waves back, looking down at the ground again.

...

Later, From the castle's balcony, Alm is hailed by all watching, including you, as a hero. He looks happy and determined. But, you can't just sit around here. There's business to be done further north where the war is headed.

As you make your way for the exit, you pass by an old man in dignified armor. Not paying attention to him would be easy, were it not for the incredibly dirty look he was giving you.

It's been awhile since you arrived here, maybe you conned him and he's onto you? You can't remember.

>"Do I... Know you from somewhere?"

>"What's your problem, tough guy?"

>Keep walking.

>>1972401
>>"Do I... Know you from somewhere?"

>>1972401
>"Do I... Know you from somewhere?"

>>1972451
>>1972411

>>1972451
>>1972411

You turn to the man, putting on a smile.

"Do I... Know you from somewhere?"

The man grumbles and stands from the wall he was leaning on.

"I've seen you before. You arrived at Ram with that boy Lukas, and now I hear you helped Alm in his battle here."

Not ringing bells, you've never seen this guy in your life. Unless...

"Anna, I am Sir Mycen. I believe you wished to side me with the Deliverance before I left. I'm... Not so pleased to meet you."

Your mouth hangs open. Didn't Alm say Mycen wasn't old? This guy looks like he should have a cane. But he's standing tall like any soldier would. You squint your eyes.

"You're not happy to see me? But I helped your grandson! I'd hate to have a damper on my customer satisfaction rate!"

Mycen's brow furrows, he steps right up in your face. He sure is tall...

"Listen well, I'm not sure what you're after. But you'd be well advised to keep your selfish pursuits away from Alm. Am I clear, young lady?"

"Sir Mycen, do I look like a child-"

"ARE. WE. CLEAR...?"

"...Yes, yes we are." You concede. No, you're not really clear. You have to help Alm, destiny is destiny. No turning back for anybody, not with so much money on the line. "But... Why?"

"I simply don't trust you, Anna. Alm's path is uncertain. But you continue to be on it. I will have my eye on you..." Mycen walks off back into the castle. "And by the way, Anna..." He stops. "I'd keep your family close, if I were you."

"..." What? What the hell did he mean by that? You don't have the time to stop him, he's already gone again.

Then, you feel it, extremely faint touch on your bag. One iron sword is removed by deft hands. You swing around to meet the supposed thief. "Hey! What do you think you're-"

The criminal is smirking, finger on her chin, holding the sword she stole.

She has the same face as you.

She has the same hair as you.

You'd wager she has the same name as you...
---
ACT I COMPLETE
---

(continued)

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>>1972684

---
ACT II
---

Earlier in time, around when Alm's group was departing their village... A thief awakens in a small island just off the coast of northern Zofia...

...

Your eyes shoot open, immediately your head turns right and left at the feeling of unfamiliarity. You don't remember going to sleep.

You relax when noting that you're not in danger. You're in a soft bed, a cleric looking woman sits on a stool looking out the window. Her hair is a soft pink, very fluffy curls. She doesn't notice you've awoken.

You are Anna, a young woman from a long line of thieves, entrepreneurs, even warriors. All of which were also female, look eerily similar, and are named Anna. The tales of the Anna families are confusing, but generally speaking, the destiny of an Anna, is to assist the hero of the Emblem, whoever they may be, and to most of all PROFIT from such a journey. But to you, that's a load of horse plop... There can't really be a destiny, right? But you still need to earn money, that's how you were raised. How you earn it is up to you and your skills.

Speaking of those skills. You are a thief.

Now you remember... And you're horrified by the memory. You were part of a syndicate of Annas, working in the World Of Fates. The heist was to steal a priceless painting of king Garon, right out of castle Krakenburg itself. But it was all a trap... That was when your sisters had left you with the dragon gate key. They were all older than you, protected you always.

You thought when the guards were coming that they were leaving you for dead.

By giving you the key, they saved your life.

But... You could be anywhere, now.

>Get the Cleric's attention.

>Get up right away.

>>1972693

>Get the Cleric's attention.

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>>1972728

You clear your throat, the timid looking cleric gasps.

"You're awake! Whoa, you've been out cold for the whole day and... You were really beaten up..."

"Yeah, er... Hi..." You're not sure what to say. You've always been rather quiet.

"Well? How do you feel, miss...?"

"A-Anna..." You mutter, still groggy.

"My name is Genny, Nomah found you this morning and brought you here... Thankfully, you're okay."

>"And just where is "here" now?"

>"...Thank you for helping me, Genny."

>"I don't have time to rest, I'm fine now, right? I should get going."

Character sheet for Merchant!Anna updated.

https://pastebin.com/PvLRZmSP

Headed to bed now, thanks for playing. I'll keep posting throughout the week, since things aren't as busy.

>>1972801

>"And just where is "here" now?"

Thansk

>>1972801
>>"And just where is "here" now?"

>>1972801

>And just where is here now?

>>1972801
>>"And just where is "here" now?"

>>1972801
>>"And just where is "here" now?"

>>1972982
>>1973290
>>1973920
>>1974187
>>1974485

"Hang on, Genny, just where is "here" now?" You ask.

Genny smiles. "This is the Novis Priory, welcome..."

You squint. "Doesn't ring any bells..."

"Huh? Well, you're on the island of Novis."

"Zoom out a little more for me?"

"It's in Zofia?"

"Just a bit more..."

"Valentia?"

Ah, you've heard of that place! Bits and pieces of it from your more well traveled sisters. Genny's looking at you funny, maybe you acted too strange.

The small girl gets up from her seat and moves to the door. "I'll check up on you later, Anna. I'm going to go tell the others you're okay..."

"Yeah, you do that..." You murmur.

As soon as the door shuts, you immediately sit up. That's when your whole body aches... Magical healing is good on the spot, but it gets sore later when it comes to greater injuries. Just how banged up did you get back there?

At any rate, you're lucky to be alive. You likely can't say the same for the rest of your band... Nohr's laws are harsh, and stealing straight from the capital is a death sentence for sure...

It's time to get back to work, the only way you know how.

You look out of the window, it seems you've been taken to a church... That explains the healing.

>See if you can climb out the window, you can't stay, sadly.

>Stay here, see if there's anything valuable to be lifted.

>>1976286
>See if you can climb out the window, you can't stay, sadly.

>>1976286
>See if you can climb out the window, you can't stay, sadly.

>>1976673
>>1976583

You're greatful for the help. But sadly, this bird flies solo.

Your items are in a small bag. Two steel daggers, your main weapons in case things get ugly, one smoke bomb for escape making, and a long rope.

You're not about to waste your rope. That's a tool you'd rather use to climb up than down. So you simply slide the window open and step out onto the roof of the priory. It sure is windy up here, careful not to lose your footing...

A few steps forward, the ringing of the large churchbell startles you. Why are they ringing that so early in the morning?

You scale to the top of the belltower, it seems you can see most of the island from up here, heights don't scare you. There's just... Wilderness for miles. But there seems to be a town at the shore, northwest. Maybe there you can heist something...

You don't normally discriminate your heist targets but, you're not looting a church. No way, at least not of anything valuable. It won't prove any point. It'd just be evil.

"Now why are they ringing that infernal bell?" You hear a boy's voice call from below. You scramble towards the commotion, the courtyard near the entrance, peeking over the roof.

Genny and two unfamiliar faces have gathered. One, a grey haired boy who had spoken earlier, the other an energetic looking girl with pink ponytails. Both of them are mages by the looks of things.

"The bell, Boey, is because it was recently reported that king Lima has passed..." The pink haired girl tells "Boey."

"Huh?" He says. "But isn't that Celica's...?" He trails off, looking sad.

"I just hope she's okay... That's all anyone can hope for." Genny says.

Strange. Looks like the king here was just axed...

>Do some more eavesdropping, this Celica person is apparently related to the king's death.

>Don't overstay your welcome. Get moving for that port town.

>>1976680
>>Do some more eavesdropping, this Celica person is apparently related to the king's death.

>>1976680
>Do some more eavesdropping, this Celica person is apparently related to the king's death.

>>1976680
>>Do some more eavesdropping, this Celica person is apparently related to the king's death.

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>>1978049
>>1977193
>>1976702

You're no fool, you know what that Boey guy was gonna say. Celica sounds important to the death of whoever king Lima is. The next room from the entrance courtyard of the priory seems to be where more people have gathered...

You use a technique you learned at a young age, the near death hang! (Patent pending) your shoes are rather pointy, and for a reason. Your acrobatic skills allow you to hang vertically from your feet down. A great technique for peeking into Windows from rooftops, which you're doing now.

There's an old man and a girl with deep red hair standing in front of a statue, speaking.

"Yes, but Celica… You know well the reason Mycen placed you in my care. With the king’s passing, you are the last living member of the Zofian royal line. There are many who would seek to use you. Or even end you. That threat is greater now than ever. Yet you would still leave, knowing that?" The old man says.

You've only listened into a piece of conversation and you might already be rich. Did you hear that right? Royalty? A gold mine to be sure.

"I must. Even if my decision betrays the care you and Mycen have shown me. You’ve done so much to keep me safe, and it breaks my heart to pain you. But what calls me to do this goes beyond my heart. I can only ask your forgiveness, Nomah." Celica says. It seems she's leaving here soon, who the hell knows why. If she's royalty shouldn't she be at the castle and not some church miles away? Odd.

You zone out for a minute. If she's here, she's likely not got anything valuable. But Celica sounds like she's gonna be off on some kind of mission, you don't know where yet. But you can tell there's profit to be made. She's a royal, after all.

"Ah, and you mustn’t forget Mila’s Turnwheel."

"I wear it always. You know that." Celica says.

Mila's turnwheel? Now that she mentions it, that necklace Celica has on looks funny.

"Now," Nomah begins. "Before you leave, could you ask Genny how our new guest is doing? We found her in the fields just this morning."

Hm? Oh, that's you.

You wonder why they took you in, is this Mila goddess some sort of cult? ...Nah, there'd be more things to steal.

Your eyes widen when your footing begins to falter.

You fall a short distance from the window to the ground. Thankfully, you roll and break your fall somewhat. But Celica and Nomah definitely heard you.

Celica immediately rushes over to help you up.

"Miss? Miss!? Are you okay? Who are you?"

"She's the one we found, Celica."

As Celica lifts you up, you can see her pendant closer now. It's some sort of necklace/timepiece. But it's oddly shaped. You wonder how much it would sell to a clock collector. With Celica pulling you up, you're close enough to reach out and touch it...

"What were you doing up there-- never mind that, what's your name?" Nomah asks.

>Attempt to pickpocket Mila's Turnwheel. (roll 1d100+15 best of 3 for success)

>Leave it be, just roll with it and steal later.

Rolled 25 + 15 (1d100 + 15)

>>1980187

>Attempt to pickpocket Mila’s Turnwheel

This roll better be good for once.

>>1980187
>Leave it be, just roll with it and steal later.

Rolled 1 (1d2)

>>1980615
>>1980622
Tiebreaker roll
1=Pickpocket
2=Leave it be

Rolled 2 + 15 (1d100 + 15)

>>1980665
>>1980615

>rolled 40, unsuccessful

You’re going for it. Stealing a necklace is child’s play, well, mostly. As Celica pulls you up, you wrap your arms around her neck for “support.” Really, you’re unfastening the chain.

“My name is Anna, I-I was just on the roof taking in the view. Nice place here! Anyways, sorry for falling down I think I’ll be right on my way-“

You expect to make a mad dash for the door when you undo the chain, but there is no way to undo it. ...How long has Celica been wearing this freaking thing!? You give it one last tug, and it snaps, coming off of her neck. But she definitely notices that...

“Hm!? Miss- Anna! What are you doing with that!?”

Ugh, stupid nosy royals! You hate them the most. Nomah looks particularly furious. Celica is staring at you. You take some steps back. The windows are still a great escape option.

“What’s all the commotion!?” Boey yells, it seems Celica’s friends have come in too now. All 3 of them seem confused. The one with pink ponytails scowls at you. “Why do you have Celica’s turnwheel? You some sorta Thief?”

Wow, right on the nose.

Is this it? Is this how you meet your end? Lit up by mages? You’ve been caught on 2 occasions in a row now, and there’s no dragon gate key to save you this time.

You look down at your prize, the hands of the turnwheel are glowing a faint blue...

>Play this off as you being clumsy. (Roll 1d100 for persuasion)

>Reveal yourself as a thief and escape in a mysterious manner using the smoke bomb, maybe you can play a Phantom Thief angle. (-1 smoke bomb)

>Give the turnwheel a crank, claim it was displaying the wrong time and you were trying to fix it.

Rolled 17 (1d100)

>>1980749
>>Play this off as you being clumsy. (Roll 1d100 for persuasion)

Rolled 26 (1d100)

>>1980749
>Play this off as you being clumsy. (Roll 1d100 for persuasion)

some one eils roll

Rolled 60 (1d100)

>>1980749

Rolled 31 (1d100)

>>1980749
>>Play this off as you being clumsy. (Roll 1d100 for persuasion)

Rolled 32 (1d100)

>>1980749
>Play this off as you being clumsy. (Roll 1d100 for persuasion)