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


File: title.png (99 KB, 2362x1249)
99 KB
99 KB PNG
Your name is Scruffy. You are currently onboard a mercenary caravan called the Butcher Block travelling through the Primordial Sea. You’re a fresh mercenary to the group and have only been employed for a week. You awaken from a small nap after considering the events of yesterday. After getting served leather soup for breakfast, you went out to hunt with your fellow mercenary, a halfling specializing in ghost magic called Sigrid, and stumbled across a wrecked motorized carriage. After scouring the carriage for loot, you discovered the princess Galia Paige Bosphoramus I in the wreckage and carried her back, nursing her to health and mending her broken bones and wounds.
After she came to, you came to realize just how obnoxious royal blood is and discovered that she ran away to the frontier to become an adventurer. She got her guards killed and lost her grandfather’s sword in an ambush in the process. The mercenaries collectively decided to return her to the kingdom to collect a million gold piece bounty. Today, you went out to hunt down the princess’s sword with the help of a changeling rogue on the convoy named Miyuki. You discovered the princess’s steamer trunk and the blade after a brief scuffle with a hobgoblin only to find it’d been turned into a backscratcher.
>>
File: 52.png (310 KB, 2426x1006)
310 KB
310 KB PNG
Returning the sword and trunk to the princess, she thanked you and you got back on the voyage to return the princess. You took a small nap in your room and have just awakened a few hours later that same day. A thick blanket of clouds have rolled in, greying out the Primordial Sea.

>What do you do?
>>
>daily routine, perhaps sing a tune https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UIZhRJIxOGU
>>
>>4275005
Make food. Who the ruck serves leather soup? Seriously.
>>
>>4275005
Oh wait check in with Sigrid to see if the princess is there here. Do we still have the broken elven sword?
>>
File: 53.png (111 KB, 2426x2626)
111 KB
111 KB PNG
>>4275022
>>4275051
>>4275052

>daily routine, perhaps sing a tune
>Make food. Who the ruck serves leather soup? Seriously.
>Oh wait check in with Sigrid to see if the princess is there here. Do we still have the broken elven sword?

You take to your daily routine - strapping your boots on, holstering your dragon and dagger, cleaning your sword. Given that it's late in the afternoon, you suppose that it's time for lunch. You open your freight elevator to find that Ana has prepared.. a hunk of lizardman cheese. Fair enough. You take your portion and walk with it, eating your lunch as you approach Sigrid's room.

You knock on it just once before Galia opens the door. Looks like she outfitted herself in the plate armor you first found on her. The scabbard attached to her side holds the ruined sword in it.
"What?" She stares at you.

>What do you do?
>>
>>4275057
Why is she all armored up? Armor's great and all but it gets uncomfortable to wear all the time. She has clothes.

>The scabbard attached to her side holds the ruined sword in it.
Dammit. Why'd we give it back?
>>
>>4275057
>”Lunch is ready. Mind telling me what you’re armored for?”
>>
File: 54.png (112 KB, 2426x2493)
112 KB
112 KB PNG
>>4275100
>>4275061

>Why is she all armored up? Armor's great and all but it gets uncomfortable to wear all the time. She has clothes.
>”Lunch is ready. Mind telling me what you’re armored for?”

”Lunch is ready. Mind telling me what you’re armored for?” You reply, looking her over.
"Lunch was ready hours ago." She replies coldly. "And what does it matter to you if I'm wearing my armor? What did you come here for? Checking to make sure your million gold pieces hasn't fled?

>What do you do?
>>
>>4275105
>”I came to check that the princess has not decided to do something stupid and end up getting hurt”
>>
>>4275105
Why did you want to be an adventurer? Did your father get that suit of armor custom fitted for you? If no then I wonder what blacksmith she convinced to make it. If yes then I think if she waited a couple of years her father probably would had let her go on her own once she showed the proficiency to care for herself. Unlike now.

So what's the king's like?
>>
>>4275105
>"Standard practice when going out in the Primordial Sea is to tell people where you're off to, in case of something happens to you and a search party is organized. Force of habit for me to ask by this point."

>>4275124
>Why did you want to be an adventurer?
She already answered that it's because of her grandpa being one himself.
>>
File: 55.png (23 KB, 1316x1072)
23 KB
23 KB PNG
>>4275137
>"Standard practice when going out in the Primordial Sea is to tell people where you're off to, in case of something happens to you and a search party is organized. Force of habit for me to ask by this point."

"Standard practice when going out in the Primordial Sea is to tell people where you're off to, in case of something happens to you and a search party is organized. Force of habit for me to ask by this point." You respond coolly.
"Mmh." She doesn't have a smart response for that, turning away. "Whatever."

You feel a sudden looming presence over your shoulder and turn around to glimpse the mountain of armor behind you. "Mind if I ask for a favor, Scruffy?"
"Scruffy? His name is Scruffy?" The princess echoes, her tone somewhere between incredulous and mocking.

Ana gently closes the door. "You busy right now? There's something I need you to check on, but I could just ask Sigrid."

>Agree to the favor.
>Say you have plans.
>Write-In.
>>
>>4275139
What do you need?
>>
>>4275139
>Agree to the favor.
Might as well see what's up.
>>
>>4275139
>Agree to the favor.
Why not
>>
File: 56.png (15 KB, 1316x1072)
15 KB
15 KB PNG
>>4275142
>>4275144
>>4275145

>Agree to the favor.

"What is it?"
"There's a transport motor carriage by our route. Doesn't look royal." She responds, leading you out to the opening of the convoy. "I doubt it's another princess, but it's worth investigating. I don't want to waste too much time looking into it. Just check if there's anything or anyone in inside worth our time. I'll keep the caravan traveling slow so you have time to look through it."

>What do you do?
>>
>>4275160
Agree
Go find Sigrid and ask her to give a crash course lesson on Motor Wagons, what part does what, and how not to fuck with it to the point it explodes.
>>
File: best girl.png (15 KB, 418x717)
15 KB
15 KB PNG
>>4275160
>Investigate wagon with best girl
>>
>>4275205
ASTOUNDINGLY based and miyukipilled, thank you
>>
File: based miyuki.png (17 KB, 654x802)
17 KB
17 KB PNG
>>4275217
>>
>>4275205
Miyuki 100% best girl, of course investigate with her
>>
File: 57.png (23 KB, 1316x1072)
23 KB
23 KB PNG
>>4275239
>>4275205

>Investigate wagon with best girl

"I'll take a look at it with Miyuki." You respond, tapping the holster on your belt.
"Right. Keep on guard." Ana replies, returning to her seat at the reins.

[...]

After asking the changeling to accompany you in investigating the carriage - who seemed all too happy to come with you - you approach the motor vehicle right alongside the towering changeling. It's paneled with oily, polished wood, but now that you're closer, you can make out some damage on the cart - bullet holes riddle the side of it visible to you.

"Another carriage out this far on the frontier.." Miyuki whispers in her familiarly ragged voice.
Looking closer, you can see a shape at the driver's seat. It's hard to make out, but they're moving behind the fogged glass.

>What do you do?
>>
>>4275252
Approach causiously. This could be a trap. Arm yourself with your pistol just in case.
>>
>>4275252
Have Miyuki shape-shift into you/a small creature, and duck your head into the tall grass, and move around the cart to make sure no one is alive... and hostile
>>
>>4275252
>It's hard to make out, but they're moving behind the fogged glass.
Oh wait. Hmmm. Could be a bandit, could be a survivor trying to hide. How good is Miyuki in direct combat, and does she have any strengths beyond her capacity to shapeshift? I know that she's excellent with single handed bladded weapons if all the daggers were of any indication. Has she ever considered investing in a light crossbow or small compound bow? There are some crossbow variants with cranks so you dont have to be too strong to reset the firing string, and compound bows were made for minimal strength and maximum power.
>>
>>4275252
Ask Miyuki to transform into something smaller. Unholster your gun and check the surrounding area for traps before caustically moving in.
>>
>>4275252
I wish we saved one of the daggers from the goblins den. Maybe we could had fashions some sort of punching blade at the end of the gun. Like a bayonet.
>>
>Try waving to the driver and flag him down
>>
>>4275205
>>4275236
cute!
>>
>>4275252

Supporting
>>4275260
Miyuki is great and all but everyone else gets pretty spooked around changelings so...
>>
>>4275284
That and a smaller profile means she'll be harder to hit, inaddition to making it easier to hide. Clearly Miyuki and Scruffy would make for a good sneaking duo as she could adapt to a smaller guise.
>>
File: 58.png (24 KB, 1316x1072)
24 KB
24 KB PNG
>>4275260
>>4275284
>>4275257

>Ask Miyuki to transform into something smaller. Unholster your gun and check the surrounding area for traps before caustically moving in.

"Miyuki. Something smaller, please?" You turn to face the tower of purple.
"A-ah. Right." With the same swiftness as yesterday, she becomes a mirror of you. Still feels weird, man.

Unholstering your gun, you stay close and low to the ground, checking the area for traps - bombs, tripwires, steel traps - but find nothing noticeable. Once you give the all clear, you rise, take a breath, and approach the carriage, your partner staying low and out of sight behind you.
The door of the motor vehicle opens with a click and you take a cautionary step back, one hand on your dragon. A figure steps forward - adorned in armor bearing the crest of the royal family, a knight steps forth with her hands up. An eyepatch makes a valiant attempt at masking a scar along her eye.

".. Mercenaries, right?" She smiles at you. You don't respond. "Sorry. I get it. I'm with the Royal Guard. I was traveling to Drexel and our carriage ran out of fuel. I'm willing to buy some - if you have any onboard your caravan."
You do have some fuel onboard, actually. Plenty of tanks meant for Ana's Smoker.

>What do you do?
>>
>>4275316
I thought royal guards, had the nice expensive decorated carriages. And what do you mean "our" is there anyone else with you in this cart? I want to see them. Just to be safe
>>
>>4275316
Did we see any of the Royal Guards armor in the goblins den? How many royal guard bodies were there and there genders? Gender affects number of available suits of armor. The existence of ruined royal guards armor is important.

What happened here. It looks like there was a shoot out, yet I see no bodies. No royal banner adorns your motor wagon, no bodies nor ounce of blood litter the ground. You appear to be the only one here yet you're largely unharmed.
This is awfully suspecious. Either you're a genuinely unfortunately stupid LONE GUARD traveling ALONE, or you're a bandit masquerading as a royal guard.

Unholster your gun, cock it, and get ready to shoot her if she so much as draws a weapon. She's too supecious. IF we saw all of the guards armor in the goblins den then she's less supecious. If we say none of the goblins with her armor then this is a trap.
>>
>>4275316
what's a guard doing travelling alone to somewhere without a royal checkpoint? you do other things than guarding?

if she acts like she's alone, question the "our".
I want this to seem like curiousity, so don't question the carriage. that sounds more suspicious than curious.

if the answers make sense:
different devices need different kinds of fuel though, right? we have fuel for a Smoker. if you think that'll work, name a price and I'll ask the boss.

if the answers don't make sense:
>>4275338
>>
I can almost taste the ambush on the tip of my tongue. It's palpable. I'm betting there are more or less two others. A pragmatic part of me things we should just shoot her, but a hopeful side thinks we shouldnt.

If anything I think we should pull out dad's sword too and prepare for the worst. You only need 1 hand to aim with the pistol.

>>4275347
What if we point the gun at her and tell her to lay belly down with her hands behind her head?
>>
File: 59.png (24 KB, 1316x1072)
24 KB
24 KB PNG
>>4275318
>>4275347
>>4275338

>Did we see any of the Royal Guards armor in the goblins den? How many royal guard bodies were there and there genders? Gender affects number of available suits of armor. The existence of ruined royal guards armor is important.

You caught sight of some armor in the den - presumably royal, given it's tinge of blue - but it was mostly ruined by the goblin attack. Dented, burst, and covered in daggers or arrows. You saw about three royal guard bodies out by the carriage when you first saw the princess. This guard's armor is a bit scuffed and dull, but it could hardly be considered severely damaged.

>I thought royal guards, had the nice expensive decorated carriages. And what do you mean "our" is there anyone else with you in this cart? I want to see them. Just to be safe
>what's a guard doing travelling alone to somewhere without a royal checkpoint? you do other things than guarding?
>if she acts like she's alone, question the "our".

"I thought royal guards, had the nice expensive decorated carriages. And what do you mean "our"? Is there anyone else with you in this cart?" You question her.
"I'm just running a transport car. No need for a fancy royal carriage for some supplies. I should've had enough fuel for the trip there and back, but I miscalculated a detour and ran out." She smiles coolly. "By "our," I mean the Royal Guard. Just me and some whale oil, meat, and bullets. If you'd like, I can provide you my papers."
"Your papers..? Sure." You stay trained on her as she backs up, reenters the car, and opens the glove box. She removes one sheet from the compartment and slowly reaches back out with it. You snatch it from her hands, looking it over. Looks official enough. Even has a royal stamp. You can barely read, anyways.

>What do you do?
>>
>>4275374
Pass it to Miyuki. She can probably read betterer.
Ask about the damages to the cart. We can probably trade some fuel. She can go back in her carriage and we'll be back with the fuel.
>>
>>4275390
note that Miyuki is hiding.
>>
>>4275392
Oh right. Not Miyuki, but our twin. Yes. Not Miyuki the doppleganger disguised as scruffy.
>>
>>4275397
"your partner staying low and out of sight behind you."
so I think she's actually physically hiding as well.
>>
>>4275411
I can't believe I missed that
>>
>>4275374
allow me to confer with my backup


disappear into the vegetation with the papers
@Miyuki can you read this?
>>
>>4275374
Well if you are doing a shipment run. I am willing to give you some fuel if you trade me your full name, rank, and any some of your meat.
>>
File: 60.png (13 KB, 1316x1072)
13 KB
13 KB PNG
>>4275428
>>4275390

>Ask about the damages to the cart. We can probably trade some fuel. She can go back in her carriage and we'll be back with the fuel.
>allow me to confer with my backup
>disappear into the vegetation with the papers
>@Miyuki can you read this?

"What's with the bullet holes?" You motion toward the breaks in the wooden paneling of the car.
"There was a bandit attack earlier. I outsped them." She returns with ease. "Any more questions?"
"Mmm.. let me confer with my backup." With that, you duck into the tall grass where Miyuki waits. You pass the license to her. "Can you read this..?"
"Hmmmm.." Miyuki looks over the paper delicately, scanning the blocks of legal text and the photo of the guard. ".. Looks l-legit. A little old, maybe, but it all seems official, I-I think.."

>What do you do?
>>
We gotta get this "guard" name and rank then have best girl transform into her, and trick the princess to see if this guard is legit.
Probably an exchange, fuel for her name, rank etc
>>
>>4275461
we have her ID. there's a photo of her on it.
>>
>>4275447
>Thank Miyuki
>Turn back to guard
>Suggest she come back to your own caravan to talk more, you do in fact have spare fuel
>Figure stuff out with Ana, Galia and everyone else once you're there
>>
>>4275447
thought:
@Miyuki her name and rank?
if it's an ID it probably makes sense it'd be old.


check: does she have the scar on the photo?

shout @guard
one of us should have Smoker fuel if you think that will work. say an amount and a rate and we'll ask the owner. I think she'd accept meat or coin if the price is good.
>>
>>4275476
forgot to remove the "thought:"
everything is actions.
>>
>>4275467
I'm not so sure about bringing her back. I still don't fully trust her and would much rather we continue on to our destination.
>>
File: 61.png (24 KB, 1316x1072)
24 KB
24 KB PNG
>>4275476
>>4275467

>@Miyuki her name and rank?
>if it's an ID it probably makes sense it'd be old.
>check: does she have the scar on the photo?
>Thank Miyuki
>Turn back to guard
>Suggest she come back to your own caravan to talk more, you do in fact have spare fuel
>Figure stuff out with Ana, Galia and everyone else once you're there
>one of us should have Smoker fuel if you think that will work. say an amount and a rate and we'll ask the owner. I think she'd accept meat or coin if the price is good.

"Her name? Mmmm.. Claire Morley." She reads out the text slowly. "She's part of the king's mobile guard." She has the scar in the photo. You slowly stand up.
"One of us has Smoker fuel if that works. Say an amount and a rate and we'll ask the owner. She'd accept meat or coin if the price is good." You offer. "Or you could come back to our caravan and talk it out yourself."

"Smoker fuel will work. How about 500 gold coins for one tank? For the trouble, of course." She responds. You're a bit taken aback. Just one gas canister goes for around 100 gold. "Forgive me for being a little cautious, but I'll stay out here. I'm sure you're aware of the stigma around mercenaries. Just bring the fuel and I'll provide the coin. If you want to make sure I hand it over, ask one of your friends in there to come with you."

>What do you do?
>>
>>4275509
Lets report back to Ana with our findings. See what she thinks.
>>
>>4275516
Agreed

>We need to talk it out with our associates
>>
File: 62.png (23 KB, 1316x1072)
23 KB
23 KB PNG
>>4275516
>>4275520

>We need to talk it out with our associates

"We need to talk it out with our associates." You nod to the caravan. "I'll be back in a moment."
"P-.. princess..?" Claire stutters out, taking a step back as her face goes pale.
"Huh? Prin-" Your cut off as you're shoved aside and the fully armored princess steps in front of you, a steel blade at the ready. Her eyes are filled with rage.
"THIEF!" Galia hisses, swinging the sword clumsily and recklessly at the member of the "royal guard." Claire easily parries it and knocks her back with the butt of her own blade. The princess hits the ground but begins to scramble up, swinging her blade wildly as she rises.

>What do you do?
>>
>>4275578
Make a note to barrette Sigrid and Ana for being so careless. Aim a not immediate lethal body shot at the royal guard before subduing the princess.
>>
>>4275578
>facepalm and sigh
Try to grab the princess so she doesn’t end up hurting herself then, ask her if she knows this “royal guard”
>>
>>4275578
Shoot first ask questions later.
>>
File: 63.png (23 KB, 1316x1072)
23 KB
23 KB PNG
>>4275595
>>4275584

>Aim a not immediate lethal body shot at the royal guard before subduing the princess.

You remove the dragon from its holster and take aim, but the princess is swinging and moving erratically in front of the guard, clashing her blade against hers fruitlessly. The guard looks almost bored as she parries. You order her to move, but she's almost too consumed with rage to listen. You grab her from behind and nearly get decapitated as you pull her back.

The "guard" rolls her eyes and removes a hidden pistol from her breastplate, flipping it out with ease and taking aim. "Listen. I can ex-"
"She's a thief, merc. Her group staged a heist on the royal bank two weeks ago." She's still trying to break free of your grasp. Despite your short stature, she's still kind of soft and weak. "I'd bet the rest of her crew AND the stolen goods are in that van. UnHAND me..!"
"I don't want to kill you." Claire scowls, keeping her pistol trained on you. "I just need fuel. Listen- I'll even still pay you. Just get me the fuel and I'll get out of your sight."
"Will it interest you to know that there's a bounty on that crew of hers, mercenary? Numbering somewhere in the hundreds of thousands." She glances back at you, still trying to kick herself out of your grip.

>What do you do?
>>
>>4275627
Where is Miyuki, can she do anything to this "guard" who has their gun pointed at us? I don't think she popped out of the tall grass yet.
>>
>>4275627
Princes you do realize you're breaking the sword even further? Keep swinging and it's gonna turn from a broken sword to a broken dagger.
Man handle the princess back to the wagon. We have a midget to slap awake.
>>
>>4275627
Wait a fucking minute. We agreed to getting her grandfather's sword back if she behaved. She just lost her privileges.
>>
>>4275627
>Chastise Galia for rushing headfirst into danger
>Ask Claire to explain herself
>Hold a hand over Galia's mouth if she tries to interrupt
>>
>>4275627
@everyone:
back to the carriage! you too princess.

pull Galia away.

if the guard follows us, hopefully Miyuki will know what to do.

>>4275675
she will bite. do not cover her mouth.
>>
File: 64.png (18 KB, 1316x1072)
18 KB
18 KB PNG
>>4275638
>Where is Miyuki, can she do anything to this "guard" who has their gun pointed at us? I don't think she popped out of the tall grass yet.

You presume Miyuki is nearby, but it's a bit difficult to communicate stealthily right now given that you're holding an enraged Galia.

>>4275675
>Chastise Galia for rushing headfirst into danger
>Ask Claire to explain herself
>Hold a hand over Galia's mouth if she tries to interrupt

"Are you TRYING to be this stupid, or does it come naturally?" You hiss into her ear, covering the noble's mouth with your hand. Her muffled yells allow you a brief peace. "Explain yourself, 'guard'."
"She's right." Claire keeps the gun trained on you, but lowers it just a little to assuage you. "The crew is in the van. We robbed the royal bank a couple of weeks ago. I WAS part of the royal guard, but got dismissed earlier this year. And we do have a bounty on our heads. But we're wanted live. And you know just as well as I do that if you want to claim the cash, the nearest royal presence is still days out. The princess here seems like a bit of a handful keeping on board herself. Could you imagine keeping even more?"

You remain silent. The princess continues to try and break free of your grip.
"All I want is fuel to get us out to Drexel. You have my word that I won't mention the million gold coins you've got there." She lowers her pistol.

>What do you do?
>>
>>4275729
Alright, before we do this deal, I have something to say
AHEM
"HELLPPPP MEE SIGRID, AND ANAAAA STRANGER DANGERRR. HELPPPP MEEEE STRANGERRRR DANGERRRR"
>>
>>4275743
Before we decide on this brilliant course of action. Perhaps we could check whether or not we'd even be heard?
>Ask Galia where the rest of the entourage is
>Ask Caire why exactly they robbed the royal bank anywho? You imagine being a royal guard pays fairly well
>>
>>4275729
Agree to the gas.
Drag Galia back to get gas.
Chastise Sigrid but also als her if she knows any magic that can put people in a coma. She said she's got op magic but I very much doubt her abilities. Why don't she prove herself? if anything we can tie them up.

>>4275743
Maybe that's something we SHOULDN'T do. She still has the gun out.
>>
>>4275752
she got fired.
>>4275754
+
>>
>>4275758
Ah yes

Changing mine to >>4275754
>>
>>4275752
>Ask Galia where the rest of the entourage is
Galia the princess wouldn't know, but Claire just explained they're in the wagon.

>Ask Caire why exactly they robbed the royal bank anywho? You imagine being a royal guard pays fairly well
>I WAS part of the royal guard, but got dismissed earlier this year.
They got layed off. They're the equivalent of criminal unsatisfied blue collar cops. Wouldn't you be mad too if you served your government loyally for years, only to be fired?
>>
File: 65.png (18 KB, 1316x1072)
18 KB
18 KB PNG
>>4275754
>>4275758
>>4275762

>Agree to the gas.
>Drag Galia back to get gas.
>Chastise Sigrid but also als her if she knows any magic that can put people in a coma. She said she's got op magic but I very much doubt her abilities. Why don't she prove herself? if anything we can tie them up.

You remain silent for a moment before slowly nodding. "Alright. I'll get your gas." You begin to back up with the princess in tow, but the knight suddenly raises her hands in the arm, dropping the pistol on the ground.
"We surrender." Claire looks to the ground, grimacing with her eyes shut.
You feel a tap on your shoulder and catch sight of Miyuki standing tall over you. "G-got help." She whispers. She's flanked by both Sigrid and Ana - Ana carrying her Smoker and Sigrid flanked by a giant glowing green hand.
"Sorry. I fell asleep." Sigrid nudges you.

>What do you do?
>>
>>4275771
I mentioned this in a previous post. Do the standard police "GET ON THE GROUND!" procedure so we can kick the gun away and tie her up. The others are insure the cart.

I guess we can't be too angry now at Sigrid since she's here already. She did just apologize.
>>
>>4275771
>Be relieved
>"Thanks Miyuki!"
>headpat

also
>Be miffed at Claire
>>4275783 >Tie em up
>After everyone is secure figure out what to do and hear everyone's thoughts on it
>>
>>4275771

>>4275783
+

@Ana
this is Claire Morley.
she and an unstated number of associates are wanted for bank robbery.
according to her, they are wanted alive and the rest are in their carriage.

>>4275794
+
>>
File: 66.png (32 KB, 1316x1072)
32 KB
32 KB PNG
>>4275797
>>4275794
>>4275783

>Be relieved
>"Thanks Miyuki!"
>headpat
>Do the standard police "GET ON THE GROUND!" procedure so we can kick the gun away and tie her up. The others are insure the cart.
>@Ana
>this is Claire Morley.
>she and an unstated number of associates are wanted for bank robbery.
>according to her, they are wanted alive and the rest are in their carriage.
>After everyone is secure figure out what to do and hear everyone's thoughts on it

You feel a wave of relief. “Thanks, Miyuki.” You pat her head. She remains quietly happy.
You spend the next hour prepping the criminals - informing Ana of the situation, having Sigrid hold Galia, and tying up the perps. When you open the back of the caravan, you find two figures sitting in the back surrounded by cloth sacks flowing with gold - a massive oni in a suitvest and tie and a small rust colored goblin with a bomb-strapped hat. You've never seen an oni before. It's quite the sight. The oni lights up a cigar as you kick open the back.

“End of the line, Grobbo.” He speaks in a thick accent as he takes a drag off it.
“Grobbo..” The goblin groans dejectedly.

[...]

The three are tied up in a pile in front of the van, lined up next to each other. Galia has her arms crossed, pouting. “.. What do you think we should do with them?” You turn to Ana, who keeps her Smoker leveled at the three in case they try anything.
“.. They’re right. If we want to claim the bounty on their heads, we’ll have to bring them to a town with a royal presence, which is still 4 days out. It’ll be risky to bring them on board either way.” She thinks aloud. “But if we just leave them be, they could get away and let it spill that we have a princess on board. That could be a huge problem. What do you think?”
“If I could speak?” The oni offers in a thick baritone.

>What do you do?
>>
>>4275827
>Well sure, let him talk
>>
>>4275827
>“If I could speak?”
M8 I really like your suit and I think if this were a different scenario we could be friends, but if you happen to be a kind of sorcerer that uses verbal incantations, I'm gonna gag you. So what's up?
>>
I also want to point out the civilized goblin. That's pretty cool.
>>
>>4275827
@Oni
you clearly are capable of doing so. hear him out.

if he doesn't suggest it:
someone can drive their car. it wouldn't be surprising if one of us is familiar with them.
>>
>>4275836
+1
>>
>>4275827
>"Sure, as long as you keep that cigar as far as you can from his hat."
>>
>>4275827
Let the oni speak, tell him it less then a few sentences, in case they are lying that they are the only ones in this bank robbery group
>>
>>4275827
Can we also examine the materials of the Goblin's hat? For it to hold all those bombs it must be fairly study and rigid.
>>
File: 67.png (26 KB, 1316x1072)
26 KB
26 KB PNG
>>4275836
>>4275854
>>4275837

>Well sure, let him talk

"Go ahead." You stare him down.
"That's a mighty fine looking hunk of steel you've got there, princess." He glances up to Galia. She takes a step back, looking at him with palpable disgust. "If I'm not mistaken, that was elven craftsmanship at one point. In fact - I'd hazard a guess that I've seen that sword before. I'm historically well read enough to recognize it. Your grandfather's, wasn't it? Well, if it could still be considered a sword."

Galia seems taken aback, but remains silent for once.

"I suppose that you ended up destroying that heirloom along the way here. It's the natural course for all young nobles. I can't imagine just how angry your father would get when his daughter gets handed back to him by dirty mercenaries with a broken heirloom. An embarrassment to the kingdom and the Bosphoramus name." He remains placid as your caravan falls silent.
"Have you ever heard of metallurgical magic? It's a rare breed. Unheard of in the West. I'm a practitioner of it. Nowadays I use it for safe-cracking, but I was trained on blades. It'd be trivial for me to restore that blade of yours to its original form - not fixing and replacing its parts, but returning to it all of the original intent of it's craftsman."

"What are you offering? Cut to the point." Ana cuts in.
"I'll fix that sword of yours and provide you 150,000 gold coins from our caravan. You give us fuel and we ride to Drexel. We swear an oath not to let it spill that you're carrying a 1,000,000 coin noble on board. Your princess swears an oath to pardon us when you return her to her father."

>What do you do?
>>
>>4275627
>Numbering somewhere in the hundreds of thousands

>>4275897
>150,000 gold

Seems like a pretty good deal to all involved but princess is a stubborn ass and won't and it should be up to the leader, Ana, to decide. I'd support it though, he's basically Santa too which is a plus.
>>
>>4275897
It's hard trusting a person, when all day I have been lied to from a "Royal guard" who had to go to a check point and then pointed a gun at me. I want to truly know that when you are freed from the restraints you won't somehow blow us up or something. Tell us why you robbed the bank as a show of trust. Why are you doing crimes involving money, when your skill is amazingly valuable
>>
>>4275897

>>4275919
+

@our people:
can any of you drive?
@any of us who volunteers
how far will the fuel we have take their car?
>>
>>4275919
supporting. I really want their LORE

>>4275897
>Ask the princess what she thinks
>>
>>4275897
Go take Sigrid asside and ask her if she knows how to make geas's or soul binding contracts. If she doesn't then ask her if she knows how to forge one. Ask for the sake of making the princess agree to our terms.
How about we keep you with us, until we get the the capital, but have the princess sign a binding contract to not tell a soul?
>>
>>4275897
>"Sounds like a decent deal, but I'm kind of curious as to your motivations for robbing the bank in the first place. If you throw in telling us that story, as well as a consultation on how you did it, we'll throw in a meal of sausage stew for you guys tonight to tell it over."
>>
>>4275936
I don't get what this choice is.
I doubt the princess cares if they tell people about her.
and why would we bring them to the capital if not to turn them in? they're going away from the capital.
>>
>>4275962
Because I don't trust them to not immediately rat on us? I dunno.
>>
File: 68.png (30 KB, 1316x1072)
30 KB
30 KB PNG
>>4275919
>>4275929
>>4275936

>It's hard trusting a person, when all day I have been lied to from a "Royal guard" who had to go to a check point and then pointed a gun at me. I want to truly know that when you are freed from the restraints you won't somehow blow us up or something. Tell us why you robbed the bank as a show of trust. Why are you doing crimes involving money, when your skill is amazingly valuable

"It's hard trusting a person, when all day I have been lied to from a "royal guard" who had to go to a check point and then pointed a gun at me. I want to truly know that when you are freed from the restraints you won't somehow blow us up or something." You crouch down to meet his eye line. "Tell us why you robbed the bank as a show of trust. Why are you doing crimes involving money, when your skill is amazingly valuable?"
"You'd be surprised at just how difficult it can be to eke out even a meager living when you look like an infernal." The oni grimaces. "I crossed a passage full sea monsters to seek new opportunity here and faced even worse discrimination than back home. I provided my "amazingly valuable" skills to the capital and they spat on me. My forge was beset by vandals and thieves and the guards looked the other way. Easterners are few and far between out here and I was left without income or friends. Everyone make a living somehow."

>>4275926
>@our people:
>can any of you drive?
>@any of us who volunteers
>how far will the fuel we have take their car?

"Can anyone here drive?" You look to the crew.
"A-ah.." Miyuki looks at the ground.
"Nope!" Sigrid exclaims.
"I'm.. not familiar with it." Ana grimaces. "I ride by horse. It's safe."
Galia doesn't speak. You can reasonably guess her answer.

>>4275929
>Ask the princess what she thinks

"I-it's.. mm." She seems a bit affected by the oni's story, but doesn't say anything.

>What do you do?
>>
>>4275969
The goblins story? More of Claire?

>Get's discriminated on
Had you ever considered working via through a proxy? Say you find someone that doesn't think you're evil. You could them buy used gear on the cheap and sell off for higher amounts in return for sharing a bit of the profits. it's honestly kind of heart breaking to hear.

So what do you guys think? What if we offer up a spot in the merc team as a traveling smith, and we sell his wares for him? In addition to pardoning him?
>>
>>4275969
Welp, I believe him
>Well... we're going in the same direction anyway
>Agree to terms
>Strongly suggest that you guys combine caravans. There's safety in numbers and until we get to a royal outpost you folks are still liable to get arrested if Galia here isn't around to put in a good word.
>Ask for their names
>>
>>4275969
Fine. We'll take the deal BUT you must also make my sword better. It gets dull after a few swings + Whatever odd job Ana, Miyuki, and sigrid wants you to do with your skill, and we'll offer you some 3 severings of lizardman cheese as a bonus
>>
>>4275986
I like em all desu

>>4275991
bribing with cheese ALWAYS works
>>
>>4275969
How much of the wagon is made of metal? Can't he just fix the holes or replace the damaged areas with his metallurgical magic?
Also, maybe giving the stolen money back might make pardoning the trio more palatable for the princess, and we could give them a share of the reward for joining us, or just a share of Scruffy's share if no one is feeling generous.

Had he ever considered making a fortune off of restoring metal based artifacts? Or wearing a mask and making up a moniker to make people less scare of him and assume he's not an oni?
>>
>>4275990
again, we're going in opposite directions.

>>4275986
+
but don't invite/offer solutions yet
>>
>>4275969
I really need to compile my ideas into a singular post.
Make an attempt to appease to while little sense of nobility and justice the princess Has. Is it not unfortunate that society spurns it's own citizens, and a talented one at that? Imagine a somewhat similar scenario of a poor little village girl getting punished for stealing bread for trying to feed herself. He's as much a victim of society and circumstance.

On an unrelated note, does the singular good quality boot we found in the cave look like it'll fit the goblin at a glance?

>>4275990
Aren't they going the opposite direction? We're going to a royal outpost, and they're heading to Drexel. We were just there not too long ago to gather supplies.

>>4275991
Might as well ask if he can sharpen and fix the few things we have, in addition the things we looted from the Den.

>>4276001
Ok. If not now, then what would be a good time? Until we heard all their sob stories? Maybe after we've heard what all of them had to say our group ( + maybe the princess) will step away and discuss what to do with them?
>>
File: 69.png (31 KB, 1316x1072)
31 KB
31 KB PNG
>>4275986
>>4275994
>>4276001

>The goblins story? More of Claire?

"And the goblin?" You look the blathering bag of bombs.
"Grobbo, grobbo grobbo. Grobbo. Grobbo, grobbo.. grobbo! Grobbo." Grobbo grobbos. "Grobbo grobbo grobbo. Grobbo. Grobbo.. GROBBO GROBBO. Grobbo. Grobbo grobbo grobbo. Grobbo. Grobbo! Grobbo grobbo."
"Thank you, Grobbo." The oni nods.
"And Claire?" You turn to the knight. She avoids eye contact.
"I got dismissed for incompetence." She mutters. "It's not really that cool.."

>What do you do?
>>
>>4276031
still gotta go with this >>4275991
Nothing beats free labor, which we give free cheese, we got from a free exploded out cart.
>>
>>4276031
I'm sorry, did we ever get the oni's name? What's your name sir? Could you translate for your goblin friend?

Let's hear your story Claire. We got time.

>>4276035
Lets keep hearing what they all have before talking among Sigrid, Ana, Miyuki, Galia, and Magnus on what to do with them.
Yes. Even Magnus. He is an important part of the team after all. I'm still fore having them return the stolen goods and join our merc company so they can be pardoned, but I'll wait like that anon suggested. It's much too soon.
>>
>>4276031
Fuck me and fuck my previous post.

Oh and ask Galia if what he said about the racism being true. Just how much does the princess know about these guys?

Here's an idea to shoot by the princess. When we return her to her family they will no doubt at the very least still be cross with her, buuuut. If we were to ham it up to Galia playing an essential part in the capture of these criminals, and if in addition she were to pardon them of a life sentencing to the dungeon or hanging, her folks might like that as a sign of her growing mature or something. They'd still probably want the three of them to be punished in some manner, so she could suggest that Grobbo, Mr. Oni and Claire work under us as unpayed labor for a number of years (we'll still pay them under the table of course).

She could also really play into the role of "kidnapped princess saved my mercenaries turned blooming adventurer", instead of "the princess that escaped and nearly died." To incentivize this we could offer too officially or unoffically train her in the art of adventuring if she still wished to go on adventures at the end of this.

If she agreed to all of that she'll probably need a disguise so people wouldn't recognize her while out and about.
>>
>>4276088
>>4276031
tl;dr
>Take Oni, gob, and ex-guard to capital
>have princess swear to pardon them and return stolen goods
>they sort of work for us now
>princess gets credit and light or next to no punishment
>>
Anon, I'm really digging your artwork. I follow your thread just for the art alone. The writing isn't anything to scoff at, but I'm liking your art for sure.
>>
File: flushed.png (5 KB, 225x225)
5 KB
5 KB PNG
>>4276123
>>
>>4276134
Are you using MS Paint + PC Mouse or what? What's your method of drawing these things?
>>
>>4276138
Thanks. I'm actually just using a tablet and Clip Studio Paint, but I've been trying out no pen sensitivity for fun.
>>
>>4276146
Ah. So you have a stylus. That explains why the art doesn't look janky like you'd get with a mouse. Keep it up--this quest is pretty great.
>>
>>4276146
Good art. I'm somehow of a artist myself, using MS paint and my mouse to let loose my thoughts on the /qst/ board.
>>
>>4276186
You should share what you made. I'd be keen on seeing it.
>>
File: 70.png (21 KB, 1316x1072)
21 KB
21 KB PNG
>>4276104
>>4275990
>>4275986
>>4275991

>Fine. We'll take the deal BUT you must also make my sword better. It gets dull after a few swings + Whatever odd job Ana, Miyuki, and sigrid wants you to do with your skill, and we'll offer you some 3 severings of lizardman cheese as a bonus

You spend the good part of an hour organizing the deal - counting out coins, keeping an eye on each other, and exchanging metallurgy for food and gas. The oni - named Shibumi - restores Callister Bosphoramus' sword and when not bent like a backscratcher, the blade's genuinely an impressive piece of work. Galia ends up pulling him aside and speaking to him privately while you get your sword retouched.

Following the a majority of the completion of the exchange, Shibumi leans against the motor carriage, examining a cigar box. He glances to you as you approach. "Hmmm?"

>Take the crew to the capital for their safety and for the princess' credit rather than pardoning.
>Bid him goodbye and continue your four day long trip with your current caravan.
>Write-In.
>>
>>4276328
Before we answer this, a very important question QM.
Would Ana let us bring whoever we want onboard with us?
>>
>>4276328
Ok so I guess we skipping over the gobbo and Claire suggestion. I still don't know why we're keeping the 150k. It's stolen money.

>Write-In.
>What did Shibumi and the princess talk about?

>Some suggestions
>>4276049
>>4276088
>>4276104
>>
>>4276340
She’d be hesitant, but given good reasoning, she’d be willing to keep them with the convoy at least until the capital.
>>
>>4276350
or not capital, actually, but the town that the princess is getting delivered to that’s a few days away.
>>
>>4276350
Oh we have plenty of good arguments.
>>
>>4276209
Check out my quest. I run Goblin Quest.

>>4276348
+1
>>
>>4276340
I 2nd this before we move on. I would love if Shibumi joins us.
The failed royal guard, ehh, I am indifferent
but not the goblin
I think already, we have a main cast of 5, I think adding 6 is doable, especially with a blacksmith who does not go out of the mobile home. but 7/8 might be a bit to ambitious.
but the Royal guard girl is kinda cute
>>
>>4276348
I don't believe magical anti-theft measures exist yet.

>>4276348 Supporting
>>
>>4276359
I think it's hard to justify taking a bunch with us personally, but if they were a 2nd car in the caravan it would be easier for sure.
>>
>>4276104
This seems good. As the space is the cart they already got
>>
>>4276373
Clearly. The most logical answer is to make the wagon taller, and add three additional draft horses.
>>
Tell Shibumi we want to take him on with us as a "trial run". Having a metalurgist on hand would definitely be worthwhile, and seeing Miyuki he should already be able to see he won't be treated like dogshit with us.

If things go well we could likely act as a middleman to sell his metalurgical works; he does the crafting, we find a buyer in exhange for a small cut of the prophets to help pay for travel expenses (i.e. No more Leather Soup.)
>>
File: 71.png (25 KB, 1316x1072)
25 KB
25 KB PNG
>>4276348
>>4276357
>>4276361
>>4276359

>What did Shibumi and the princess talk about?

"What did you talk about? With the princess, I mean." You fold your arms.
"She apologized for how I was treated. Said she wanted to make things better. I don't suppose she would've liked me telling you about that, though." He responds plainly.

>Some suggestions
"Would you be willing to come with us? On a.. "trial run," I guess. It's like.." You present him the idea of working with your crew as an act of "pardoning," for the benefit of both the princess and the heisters. Plus, the caravan could act as a middleman for his metallurgical work.

Shibumi mulls it over for a long while. "I'd be.. willing. But I'm not interested in dropping Grobbo and Claire to run away for my own benefit." He nods to the ex-guard and the goblin sitting by the hood of the caravan. "If I come with you, I'm bringing them. I understand how difficult that may make it for you, though.

>What do you do?
>>
>>4276938
I had a feeling he would say that. Could he elaborate a little about Claire and Grobbo? Claire seemed adamant about talking about her past, and Grobbo. We can understand what hes trying to say. If hes trying to say anything at all.
>>
>>4276938
Did they mention what they were going to Drexel for ? If it's to pawn off the loot then that might be a bad idea since the terms of the pardon might include returning the stuff they stole.
>>
>>4276971
>Did they mention what they were going to Drexel
Going to do at Drexel? Good question. With how he wanted to bring Claire and Grobbo with him when we offered to a sort of position with us, they would likely all stick together. Drexel would probably be a restock point for them before they continued on, possibly to another continent.

>If it's to pawn off the loot
No, what? Anon no they had hard cash on them not sellable. If we didnt encounter them they probably live off the cash for a while.
>>
>>4276938
good loyalty. yes that's too many people.
and you're wanted, so the others wouldn't be very useful until you got that pardon.

check the gold before sending them on their way (compare some coins we got with ones we have already. mass, shine, recognizable denominations, are they too perfect? might make sense for some of them to be straight from a mint, but maybe not all.).
they have the means to make fake/adulterated coins probably. only things stopping them is if they actually like us, really really want that pardon, or stole a lot more than this.

thoughts:
we need to agree how to divide this and the princess's bounty in the crew. again, can't trust people just because you like them or they seem to like you.
depending how much "a few million" is, some of us might straight quit being mercs when this is over.
benchmarks:
100 gold for a tank of oil. Ana was using the Smoker as a weapon earlier (flamethrower?). if that's a regular thing, 100 gold can't be that much relative to what we're normally getting paid.
but that's at least 4000 tanks of oil each on an even split (assuming 2 million). Ana's probably getting more since she's the leader and owns the wagon.
>>
>>4276980
Why is taking two additional people too much? That's kinda of presumptuous to assume Claire and Grobbo arent useful. I'm sure they're good for something. Claire is obviously the muscle and Grobbo the demolitions expert. They wouldnt had been sitting on 150k worth of coin if they didnt pull their collective weight.

Shibumi does have the potential to Mint his own coins, but that would require having to find gold himself which would be an entirely different ordeal with it's own expenses?

>we need to agree how to divide this and the princess's bounty in the crew. again, can't trust people just because you like them or they seem to like you.
We could probably divide it like 22.5% between each of us and spend the remaining 10% on Magnus and upgrading the amenities to the wagon, assuming any of us want to continue on with our mercenary work.

>depending how much "a few million" is, some of us might straight quit being mercs when this is over.
benchmarks:
That's true

>100 gold for a tank of oil. Ana was using the Smoker as a weapon earlier (flamethrower?). if that's a regular thing, 100 gold can't be that much relative to what we're normally getting paid.
>but that's at least 4000 tanks of oil each on an even split (assuming 2 million). Ana's probably getting more since she's the leader and owns the wagon.
Ok you're losing me here
>>
File: 72.png (36 KB, 1316x1072)
36 KB
36 KB PNG
>>4276967
>>4276975

>I had a feeling he would say that. Could he elaborate a little about Claire and Grobbo? Claire seemed adamant about talking about her past, and Grobbo. We can understand what hes trying to say. If hes trying to say anything at all.

"Could you elaborate on Claire and Grobbo? Claire seemed adamant about talking about her past, and Grobbo-.. I can't understand what he's trying to say. If he's trying to say anything at all." You ask, frowning.
"Grobbo is a goblin. To tell the truth, I barely understand him. He's just repeating his name. He's great with explosives in a pinch, though." He responds, turning to the two. "Claire grew up out in the Primordial Sea and was scouted for the guard. Her skill with a sword is great, but she never received the kind of education that all guards employed have. She was dismissed for repeated mistakes related to it. For her own sake, I won't elaborate."

>What do?
>>
>>4277002
Again I dont see the issue of taking them with us. Additional muscle is always a plus, and having a demolitions expert would be very useful against crowd control or dealing with large groups of enemies. That's a skill none of us has. Does he know if Grobbo can make nonlethal explosives or gas bombs?
>yo can we hire them aboard the team?
>>
>>4277002
I have no issues with bringing them along, but we're not in charge (I think).
>>
File: stealth mode activated.png (124 KB, 1800x1300)
124 KB
124 KB PNG
>>4276146
for the lineart in the Sigrid thing last time,
I ended up using a square pixel art brush in Krita after fiddling for a while trying to make a jittery brush with hard color.
I see that it didn't work very well, especially on the hair.
did you also use very basic brushes (like just a round and a square one) or does clip studio just have good and easily available options for preventing blending?


>>4276990
>Why is taking two additional people too much?
>That's kinda of presumptuous to assume Claire and Grobbo arent useful. I'm sure they're good for something. Claire is obviously the muscle and Grobbo the demolitions expert.
>They wouldnt had been sitting on 150k worth of coin if they didnt pull their collective weight.
they're wanted. we can't really show them to people so if there's a risk of meeting people we aren't supposed to kill, it's a risk to bring them. and we're travelling straight to somewhere, so most of our encounters will be on the road, probably with people.
also when we arrive the princess probably can't immediately pardon them and the royal checkpoint maybe can't immediately pay us.

>Shibumi does have the potential to Mint his own coins, but that would require having to find gold himself which would be an entirely different ordeal with it's own expenses?
take gold from what he has, mix it with something else, get more coins that aren't actually as valuable. adulterate.

>Ok you're losing me here
trying to figure out how much 2 million is

2000 000 (2 million)
divided by five is 400 000

100 is the cost of a tank of fuel for the smoker.
then I do some guessing:
Ana was threatening Claire with the Smoker earlier, so it can be used as an immediately dangerous weapon as well as to produce smoke. that'd probably be flamethrower-ish
those are pretty inefficient IRL at least.
so if the "tank" is something that's attached to the Smoker, and not a unit based on some other tank, that's probably gone pretty fast if you use it as a weapon.
and for 100 gold it's worth it to do that (low lethality, high terror repeating mid-ranged weapon with additional utility functions, that's heavy so you don't want to carry it if you aren't using it).
so a mercenary can probably expect to be paid a good deal more than 100 gold when they need to use it that way.

400 000 divided by 100 is 4000.
so with an even split we'd get 4000 reasonable ammo costs worth of gold, which is a lot but I don't know how huge of a lot.

other stuff.
bounty for a goblin was some amount of coppers, and Ana considered it not worth our time to haul them. don't know how many coppers to a gold.
>>
>>4277035
Of course. Magnus is the actual leader. Ana is just his second in command.
>>
>>4277037
>They're wanted
Yeah but we have the fucking princess with us

>>4277002
>Go talk to Ana and ask about taking these schmucks on for a trial period.
>>
>>4277037
rail gun. Could wear disguises. Get Grobbo a coat and he could pretend to be a deformed midget halfling. Get Shibumi some sort of cloak and metal mask. Get Shibumi to re form Claire'a armor into something simpler and use our spare metals to make her a helmet. Honestly if they disguise themselves they'll be fine.
>>
>>4277037
>so if the "tank" is something that's attached to the Smoker, and not a unit based on some other tank, that's probably gone pretty fast if you use it as a weapon.
Or maybe Ana is hulkishly strong.

Right the copper. That still exists. I think Ana's weapon is just exceptionally deadly as it is expensive to fuel. Coppers is probably stuff farmers deal in constantly. Low to mid tier food, rations, tools, etc.. Silver being above being used for more expensive stuff like weapons. Gold for more weapons and a broader spectrum of expensive goodies like magical tools.
Yeah out Ana please get some fuel efficiency for that.

>>4277054
A princess that could pardon them on the spot and tell people to fuck off. Not literally those words but yeah.
>>
>>4277055
rail gun
*right
Fuck me sideways
>>
>>4277054
we don't want to show the princess either. don't want someone setting an ambush because rumors travelled faster than our giant wagon drawn by a single horse.

though yeah actually that might be less important if there aren't any towns on the way. don't remember if there are.

>>4277055
I know I'm outvoted on this, and that would be hilarious, but I don't think that's significantly less suspicious. people just wouldn't know exactly what to suspect. might work for Claire.

>>4277065
"gotta set this rail gun"
"everything's gonna be rail gun"
"rail gun you are"
"rail gun as rain"
I'd make this a thing myself, but my setting's all coil guns.
>>
>>4277067
Get her to write a proclamation with a royal seal then
>>
File: 73.png (22 KB, 1316x1072)
22 KB
22 KB PNG
>>4277067

>though yeah actually that might be less important if there aren't any towns on the way. don't remember if there are.

There are a few towns along the way, but Ana overstocked up at Drexel specifically to avoid stopping there and is deliberately avoiding getting close to prevent the princess from being seen. Her main goal is to make a bee-line to the town with the royal presence, drop the princess off, and retrieve the reward.

>>4277054
>>4277021
>>4277035

>Go talk to Ana and ask about taking these schmucks on for a trial period.

You spend some time drafting up ideas in your head before approaching the knight captain herself, who's begun to saddle back in with Magnus in the Butcher Block. After getting her attention, you begin to explain your ideas - about how extra muscle on board for just the next few days could work, your ideas about pardoning, and how having a blacksmith on board could supplement for the costs of running the caravan.

Ana drinks it all in for a while. She remains silent for almost scarily long. You have no idea what she looks like under the helmet.

".. Fine. As long as the pull their weight and it doesn't interfere with getting to Kirin." She settles. "They'll have to hook their carriage to the back of the caravan. They're not sleeping in here."

>What do you do?
>>
>>4277067
I realize only now that pulling the princess out would be dumb. Disguises and masks for days.

>>4277072
Ask if their wagon can be fixed to look less supecious? Add a little fuel and set their wagon to neutral so alleviate some of the burden for Magnus.
>>
>There are a few towns along the way, but Ana overstocked up at Drexel specifically to avoid stopping there and is deliberately avoiding getting close to prevent the princess from being seen. Her main goal is to make a bee-line to the town with the royal presence, drop the princess off, and retrieve the reward.

given this, my fear is we meet someone on the way (either going the same or the opposite way), they learn about Galia, they go to one of the towns we're going sorta towards (possibly turning around to do so).
we don't need to go through a town to be noticed.
we don't need to go through a town to be ambushed if they know about us beforehand.
>>
>>4277087
If we're ambushed, we're killing them. If Galia gets discovered, we we'll take Sigrid's hat away or something.
>>
>>4277072
>Bring the terms back to Shibumi
>Try to fix up their car a bit so it's not riddled with bullets
>Review improved dagger
>>
File: 74.png (77 KB, 2353x1247)
77 KB
77 KB PNG
>>4277108
>>4277081

>Ask if their wagon can be fixed to look less supecious? Add a little fuel and set their wagon to neutral so alleviate some of the burden for Magnus.
>Bring the terms back to Shibumi
>Try to fix up their car a bit so it's not riddled with bullets
>Review improved dagger

You return with Shibumi with the terms from Ana. He seems reciprocal to it. You spend the next hour and a half fastening and holstering the carriage to your caravan, setting it to neutral to prevent Magnus from getting too burdened under the weight of a massive careening caravan loaded with weapons and dangerous mercenaries. Although metallurgical magic doesn't quite extend to wood, you simply fasten a large spare banner over the bullet ridden side.

By the time you're done, you've got a pretty solid setup for your trip.

>What do you do?
>>
>>4277142
Pet Magnus, offer an apple or two as thanks.
>>
>>4277142
>Review
>Improved
>Dagger
>>4277157 Supporting
>Ask Shibumi and Claire a bit about gobbo. Why is he surprisingly tame compared to other gobs?
>>
>>4277157
Support. Promise to get him the premium oats and apples.
>>
File: 75.png (19 KB, 1834x1049)
19 KB
19 KB PNG
>>4277157
>>4277187
>>4277191

>Pet Magnus, offer an apple or two as thanks.

You step out of the caravan for a moment, rubbing a hand along the old beast's mane. He brays happily as you offer him not just one, but TWO apples. Magnus is the hardest worker here. Once you're done with all this, you'll have to buy him some premium oats and apples.

>Review
>Improved
>Dagger
>Ask Shibumi and Claire a bit about gobbo. Why is he surprisingly tame compared to other gobs?

Unfortunately, it was not your vorpal dagger that was improved - being cursed, it's a bit beyond metallurgical magic - but your dad's sword, which appears sleek and shiny, swishing satisfyingly in the air. You practice a few errant swings as you approach the newly attached carriage - climbing up to the top, you see Claire Morley lying on her back, staring up at the night sky. She doesn't look at you as you approach.

"You want something?" She asks.
"I wanted to know about Grobbo. Why is he.. like that." You sit at the roof across from her.
"Like what? Not stabbing you?" Claire shrugs. "I don't know. There are plenty of civilized goblins in the capital. They can actually speak in full sentences. Some work with nobles. Grobbo's just weird."

>What do you do?
>>
>>4277216
>Personally talk to grobbo, see if we can try and understand his inflections a bit more
>Talk to Galia, ask her about the situation and whether or not she knows Claire beyond her reputation
Lads, I'm of the mind that Galia probably doesn't want to go home, and that she probably wants to keep adventuring with us
>>
>>4277216
Gobbos in high places huh, what a crazy world we live in, no?
>>
>>4277216
how do they get them? like do you see happy civilized goblin families living in houses, or is it some kind of farming?

work doing what?
>>
File: 76.png (23 KB, 1316x1072)
23 KB
23 KB PNG
>>4277251
>>4277250

>Gobbos in high places huh, what a crazy world we live in, no?
>how do they get them? like do you see happy civilized goblin families living in houses, or is it some kind of farming?
>work doing what?

"How do they get them? Work, I mean. Like do you see happy civilized goblin families living in houses, or is it some kind of farming?" You ask. "Work doing what?"
"Clerical work. Farming. Sniffing out changelings. Some magic." She shrugs. "Some just look for more than what they have, I guess. Why are you asking me what goes on in the minds of goblins?"

>What do you do?
>>
>>4277216
Ask one of the now many mercs (OG, and the new 3, maybe not grobbo) if one of them are willing to teach you how to read
(Easy bonding time)
>>
>>4277270
He's something we haven't seen before. A goblin you dont have the kill. It's odd but not a bad thing.

So what was it like in the guard? Any cool stories?
>>
>>4277270
damn. Claire is CUTE
>>
File: sketch-1590516738395.png (536 KB, 1888x1080)
536 KB
536 KB PNG
>>4277270
BEHOLD
>>
File: 77.png (23 KB, 1316x1072)
23 KB
23 KB PNG
>>4277299
based and horsepilled

>>4277291
>>4277292

>Ask one of the now many mercs (OG, and the new 3, maybe not grobbo) if one of them are willing to teach you how to read
>He's something we haven't seen before. A goblin you dont have the kill. It's odd but not a bad thing.
>So what was it like in the guard? Any cool stories?

"He's something I haven't seen before. A goblin I don't have the kill." You admit. "It's.. odd, but not a bad thing."
"I see. You're from the Primordial Sea, right? I am too." She scoffs. "You can probably guess why civilized goblins wouldn't want to live near their barbaric cousins."
"So.. what was it like in the guard? Any cool stories?" You prod her.
"I wasn't there for long. Nothing particularly interesting. A few assassination attempts on the kings." Despite her flippancy, she seems at ease when talking about her time with them. "The usual."
"Do you think that maybe you could teach me how to, uh.. read? Or maybe Shibumi? Probably not Grobbo." You pop the question.
"Why would you want to learn how to read?" A flash of annoyance crosses her features. "You've got everything you need here. Not like you've gotta read a book for the rest of your life. Just cutting down goblins and saving princesses for coin until you can retire somewhere sunny."

>What do you do?
>>
File: anger, yet sadness.gif (5.27 MB, 640x360)
5.27 MB
5.27 MB GIF
damn... yo OP can scruffy even spell his own name?
>>
>>4277334
Theres more to things than killing goblins and monsters. For example. Readings good for passing the time when you have to spend days on the road.

Why are we asking to learn how to read? Doesnt Scruffy know how to already?
>>
>>4277363
>>4275374
>You snatch it from her hands, looking it over. Looks official enough. Even has a royal stamp. You can barely read, anyways.
also bonding opportunity.
>>
>>4277382
Oh. Now I'm sad, but yes a bonding experience.
>>
>>4277334
I saw a princess who does... what you saw her do. because she read books before she could see how stupid they were.
you just told me goblins can do clerical work.
I guess pride.
and it's nice to have a reason to speak with someone.
how old were you when you left here?
>>
File: 78.png (30 KB, 1316x1072)
30 KB
30 KB PNG
>>4277351

>damn... yo OP can scruffy even spell his own name?

You at least learned to write your name, of course. And you recognize shapes like "shops" and "taverns." Besides that, you're not the kind to read.

>>4277363
>>4277406
>Theres more to things than killing goblins and monsters. For example. Readings good for passing the time when you have to spend days on the road.
>how old were you when you left here?

"There's more to things than killing goblins and monsters." You protest. "Readings good for passing the time when you have to spend days on the road. At least, that's what Sigrid said.."
"Whatever. Find someone else to teach you." Claire averts her gaze. Things grow uncomfortable.
".. How old were you when you left here?" You change the subject.
"16 or 17. I was with the Archical Adventurer's Guild. Some fancy guard captain saw me and thought I swung my sword well enough to drive me out to the capital." She answers tersely. "It's getting late. Don't you have to go to sleep?"

That's right. It is getting pretty dark. Surprisingly, the caravan is still moving foward. Typically, it would've been stationed by now.

>What do you do?
>>
>>4277432
yo go bug the princess a bit. I bet she owes you a mega favor that you found her sword, and then fixed her sword. I bet she can teach you how to read
>>
>>4277432
Agree and go check on who's driving Magnus. We don't want to over work.... actually taking into account exactly WHAT he's pulling I'm not sure if he even know the concept of fatigue. Still, better safe than cart to stop then check on Sigrid on the princess. Who's shift is it now?
>>
>>4277432
well Magnus kept going when we fell asleep in the reins. check on whoever's driving.
>>
>>4277438
+1 princess most definitely knows how to read, but she may need her nobility beauty sleep. If all else fails we can go to Miyuki as she is confirmed to read somewhat.
>>
Alright boys, before the end of this adventure I WILL make sure my man scruffy learns to read. Reading is such an important skill for him to have.
>>
File: 79.png (32 KB, 1180x1247)
32 KB
32 KB PNG
>>4277447
>>4277446
>>4277438
>>4277441

>yo go bug the princess a bit. I bet she owes you a mega favor that you found her sword, and then fixed her sword. I bet she can teach you how to read
>Agree and go check on who's driving Magnus. We don't want to over work.... actually taking into account exactly WHAT he's pulling I'm not sure if he even know the concept of fatigue. Still, better safe than cart to stop then check on Sigrid on the princess. Who's shift is it now?

"Sure." You remove yourself from the roof, sliding off and dipping into the waist high grass. As you loop back around to the front, you see the fully armored up figure of Ana with the reins still on Magnus. ".. Why are we still going? Shouldn't we have stopped by now.
"We lost some time dealing with the heisters. We're going to be traveling overnight to make that up. By morning, we might even have only 2 or 3 days until Kirin." She responds, glancing between the map pasted up next to the rider's seat and the reins.
"What about Magnus. Isn't he gonna get overworked?"
"Magnus has handled a great deal worse than this." She scoffs. "When we arrive, we can buy him as much high grade oat as he needs with our cash."

Shrugging it off, you climb the rungs of your ladder to return to your room. You let loose a sigh of relief at the chance to finally rest and open the door to see.. the princess lying across your bed.

".. What the hell are you doing on my cot?" You hiss, not bothering to hide the resentment creeping into your tone.
"Ana told Sigrid to put me here 'cause it'd be harder for me to escape with you watching." She replies with a shrug. She holds up an old photo of you in a red cloak, a sneer smattered across her face - its an expensive memento you received as a gift from your elf dad. "Did you REALLY look like this? You looked even MORE like a little girl."

>What do you do?
>>
>>4277454
my nigga
>>4277438
Supporting
>>
>>4277471
>anger
>but also anger
>>
>>4277471
>"Did you REALLY look like this? You looked even MORE like a little girl."
>You looked even MORE like a little girl.
>She implying Scruffy looks girls as he is
Laugh. She just jelly we're prettier than her. Yeah, I did look really girly, but the funny thing was I was just a little kid, and even then I was leagues better the adventurer than what you aspired to be. Unlike you, I knew how to swing a swing properly, and actually managed to kill a few number of goblins in addition to a dire boar.

Nice tits by the way. So enough smack talking for tonight. Can you teach me how to read gooderist?
>>
>>4277471
>snatch photo away from her
>get her to teach us how to read
>>
>>4277502
>nice tits by the way
pretty sure this is the first cleavage shot of the campaign
>>
File: 80.png (26 KB, 1180x1247)
26 KB
26 KB PNG
>>4277504
>>4277496

>anger
>but also anger
>snatch photo away from her

You feel IMMENSELY ANGRY, snatching the photo away from her grubby little noble hands. Did she really go through all your stuff..? You look down at the pic. You used to frown a lot.
"Relaaax. You were almost cute. I wonder what happened." She sneers, falling back on YOUR bed.
"DON'T touch my things." You pull the bed sheet out from under her, causing her to fall to the floor.
"Shit! Owwww." The princess groans, rubbing at her head. "What the hell is your problem?"

>What do you do?
>>
>>4277471
Damn I miss Laura
This >>4277502
>>
>>4277525
Don't fuck with my stuff is what.
Is dead still dead or alive?
>>
>>4277525
Can’t believe Cat finally made a sequel to Minecraft Quest
>”You better not have messed with the bunny ears too.”
>>
>>4277525
>”you thinking you have any right to go through my stuff”
I don’t think we are gonna get her to teach us to read.
>>
>>4277525
>>4277536
>>
>>4277525
>I get that you're used to being literal fucking royalty, but outside the palace we have something called politeness and manners
>Would your siblings or other members of the royal family be ok with you rifling through their things? Didn't think so
>Did you really go out to be an adventurer thinking that everyone would still treat you like you're royalty? Guess again
>My problem is that you still think the world revolves around you, that you have the right to do this kind of stuff. Well wake up and smell the [CAFFEINATED BEVERAGE] princess, this is the real world, and real people have boundaries you're not supposed to cross. You just crossed one of mine

Once we get that off our chest then
>Stop seething
>Take two minutes
>Apologize for hurting her
>Bring up learnding
>>
>>4277525
the problem is, instead of having a nice rest, or finding some one to teach me how to read, I have to babysit a posh princess who has daddy issues, and touches my stuff. I thought nobles liked you, learned manners
>>
File: 81.png (38 KB, 1180x1247)
38 KB
38 KB PNG
>>4277536
>>4277542
>>4277539
>>4277529
>>4277529

>Don't fuck with my stuff is what.
>”You better not have messed with the bunny ears too.”

"Don't fuck with my stuff is what." You avoid yelling, lest you wake up Sigrid or Miyuki. ”You better not have messed with the bunny ears, either.”
"Oh yeah! Those." She turns around, reaching under your blanket and removing the set of ears you received as quest reward. She fixes them to her head, striking a pose. "What do you think? Cute, right? Why the hell do you even have these? Some big tough mercenary."

>What do you do?
>>
>>4277579
Throw fists. She is asking for it now.


BUT breaking character, she does look CUTE AS FUCK
>>
>>4277587
Please dont

>>4277579
How dare you! I earned those ears!
>>
>>4277579
>QM uses mention of bunny ears to draw cute princess in bunny ears
classic

>Hey! Those were a quest reward!
>>
File: 82.png (34 KB, 1180x1247)
34 KB
34 KB PNG
>>4277592
>>4277593

>How dare you! I earned those ears!
>Hey! Those were a quest reward!

"How DARE you. I earned those ears." You snarl, ripping them from her head and hugging them close to her chest. "They were a quest reward."
For the first time since she came to consciousness yesterday, the princess actually laughs - it's an almost musical, melodic giggle. ".. I'm messing with you, Scruffy. Relax. Aren't you supposed to be some cutthroat dangerous merc?" She ruffles your hair. It's IMMENSELY frustrating that she's taller than you. "Anyways, am I sleeping in your bed so you can sleep on the floor? Or are you gonna get me something to sleep on?"

>What do you do?
>>
>>4277614
>find something for her to sleep on
>if we can’t, oh well, guess she is sleeping on the floor
>>
>>4277621
nah bros I got the PERFECT idea

>>4277614
>climb in next to her
>>
>>4277614
She can take the bed, we'll make a pillow out of a cloak or clothes. Sleeping on wood ain't so bad so long as you have a pillow.
>>
>>4277623
I second this. She wants attitude I will give her attitude
>>
File: 83.png (50 KB, 1180x1247)
50 KB
50 KB PNG
>>4277659
>>4277623

>climb in next to her

"We'll share." You smirk, collapsing onto your OWN bed and pulling the blanket up around you. You stare at the princess expectantly.
"I.. I know what you're playing at, merc. I'm not getting scared off so easy." Taking a breath, she throws up the blanket and climbs in next to you. "I'm NOT sleeping on the floor."

The both of you are AWKWARDLY lying next to each other on the bed. Galia clears her throat.

>What do you do?
>>
>>4277673
So uhh, weird time to ask, you can read right? How do you spell “dragon”???
>>
>>4277673
Tell her good night and sleep.
>>
>>4277673
>turn on your side and face away from the princess and sleep
We will not back down
>>
>>4277677
Supporting this one, something to make it a little less awkward
>So uh... how did you learn how to read?
I swear to God if she's hogging the covers...
>>
>>4277673
Tell the Princess you better not wake up with something sticking into your backside. (Her dick)
>>
>>4277714
I don't think it's a princess (male)
>>
>>4277714
maybe lets not
>>
>>4277673
This >>4277659, plus admitting (in a low voice) that she looked pretty good with the ears on.
>>
>>4277745
No anon admit nothing to her.
>>
>>4277745
>her
>pretty
based miyuki is the only one that gets to be called pretty. admit nothing.
>>
>>4277754
>Miyuki
>pretty
I believe you meant to say adorable.
>>
>>4277804
that too
>>
File: 84.png (50 KB, 1180x1247)
50 KB
50 KB PNG
>>4277804
>>4277754

technically miyuki can be anything

>>4277681
>>4277678

>turn on your side and face away from the princess and sleep

You attempt to turn on your side and face away from her, but she's being pretty greedy with the blanket right now and you could risk leaving half of your body exposed to the monsters under your bed. You attempt to tug at it, but she's got the grip advantage with her position. You're WAY too uncomfortable to just close your eyes and sleep right now.

>>4277677
>>4277709

>So uh... how did you learn how to read?

"So uh... how did you learn how to read?" You attempt to break the air of awkward tension between the two of you.
".. Tutors. A library full of books. How did you learn?" She reciprocates it.

>What do you do?
>>
>>4277815
Home tutored but dad was too busy? Didn't learn too much because I was adventuring.
>>
>>4277815
Uhhh, my father taught me a bit like how to spell my name, which sign on top of a store sells weapons, and the one that sells general goods. But besides that I don’t know how to read.
>>
>>4277815
>being pretty greedy with the blanket right now
REEEEEEEEEEE

Supporting >>4277822
>This may surprise you since you've lived in the capital but, if you're not expected to use it, you don't really get taught it
>>
File: 85.png (50 KB, 1180x1247)
50 KB
50 KB PNG
>>4277847
>>4277822

>Uhhh, my father taught me a bit like how to spell my name, which sign on top of a store sells weapons, and the one that sells general goods. But besides that I don’t know how to read.
>This may surprise you since you've lived in the capital but, if you're not expected to use it, you don't really get taught it

"Uhhh, my father taught me a bit like how to spell my name, which sign on top of a store sells weapons, and the one that sells general goods. But besides that I don’t know how to read." You admit, scratching your cheek. "This may surprise you since you've lived in the capital but, if you're not expected to use it, you don't really get taught it."
"Really? You don't even know how to read?" The princess asks, incredulity ebbing into her voice. You brace yourself for the insult. ".. Would.. would you like to learn? I don't think I could really teach you how to read in one night, but it couldn't hurt, right?"

>What do you do?
>>
>>4277979
>Turn over to face her
>Oh man, that would be great! I'd love to!
>>
>>4277979
Agree. Perhaps tomorrow morning.

>>4277984
>>4277984
Lets not appear tooo excited
>>
File: based gigachad.jpg (79 KB, 1080x1185)
79 KB
79 KB JPG
>>4277979
HALULHA! SCRUFFY IS GOING TO READ.

Of course I would like to learn how to read.It's an essential skill, for everyone, regarding what job a person does
>>
>>4277979
>"Yeah... I'd like that."
>(Sleepytime)
>>
>>4277998
I think she's being genuine now
If she's lying we can always kick her out of bed
>>
File: 1588028980311.jpg (359 KB, 2048x1984)
359 KB
359 KB JPG
>>4278011
perhaps she is.
>>
File: 86.png (52 KB, 1180x1247)
52 KB
52 KB PNG
>>4277998
>>4278008

>Agree. Perhaps tomorrow morning.

"Mmm. Yeah. Maybe tomorrow morning." You mumble, closing your eyes as exhaustion begins to take you.
"Okay."

[...]

You wake up the next morning and oh FUCK, the princess's arm is slung around you. She's fast asleep. Oh shit.

>What do?
>>
>>4278041
Suck on her thumb. That'll teach her for putting her arm around you
>>
File: 1586934075377.jpg (100 KB, 706x709)
100 KB
100 KB JPG
>>4278041
Try to slip out.

>>4278044
NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO
>>
>>4278044
+1
>>
>>4278041
Shimmy our of there

>>4278044
...
>>
File: banjo.png (729 KB, 750x794)
729 KB
729 KB PNG
>>4278041
Go back to sleep. She'll probably wake up and move it off of us before we reawaken.

>>4278044
>pic related.
>>
>>4278048
+
>>
File: autism speaks.jpg (15 KB, 300x300)
15 KB
15 KB JPG
>>4278048
>>4278055
Supporting

>>4278044
(You)
>>
>>4278063
>>4278062
>>4278055
>>4278048

>Try to slip out.

>Roll a 1d20. Best of 3.
>>
Rolled 10 (1d20)

>>4278065
Guess my choice is too much of a Chad move for Scruffy
>>
Rolled 6 (1d20)

>>4278065
>>
Rolled 20 (1d20)

>>4278065
>>
Rolled 14 (1d20)

>>
>>4278071
WEW
>>
File: 1589544386140.jpg (24 KB, 321x322)
24 KB
24 KB JPG
>>4278073
LAD
>>
>>4278071
Master of stealth
>>
File: 87.png (19 KB, 1180x1247)
19 KB
19 KB PNG
>>4278071
>Rolled 20 (1d20)

Not sucking the princess' thumb, you perform a perfect slip out of her grasp - sliding out of her lock with ease and landing on the floor with acrobat-like dexterity. You let loose a sigh of relief. Galia is still sound asleep. The gentle sway and creak of the caravan clues you into the fact that the Butcher Block is still on the move.

>What do you do?
>>
>>4278080
>eat breakfast
>>
>>4278080
Go outside and check on everyone. Has Ana been awake all night, or is someone else driving? What time is it? Who's turn is it to make food?
>>
>>4278080
Eat some breakfast, feed Magnus his morning hay and cut up apple, do swordplay exercises.
>>
>>4278080
FEED MAGNUS, EAT BREAKFAST SAY HIGH TO EVERYONE, LEARN TO READ
>>
File: 88.png (21 KB, 1180x1247)
21 KB
21 KB PNG
>>4278102
>>4278097
>>4278086
>>4278082

>eat breakfast
>Go outside and check on everyone. Has Ana been awake all night, or is someone else driving? What time is it? Who's turn is it to make food?

You first check the freight elevator for breakfast. Looks like Ana took into account that Galia was with you, leaving a generous portion of salami slices for the both of you. Following that, you grab a few and step outside - the light streaming in from your window is cool and pale, so you'd guess that it's a bit earlier in the day and it's unlikely that your fellow mercenaries are awake. You climb the rung leading down into the base of the convoy and see Ana sitting in the exact same position she was last night with her hands on the reins of Magnus.

"Good news." She glances over her shoulder. "We're ahead of schedule. Another two or so days, maybe."
"Have you been up the entire night?"
"I've dealt with worse." Ana shrugs, turning back around.

>What do you do?
>>
>>4278131
Suggest she take a break and rest, and let Magnus graze a bit. A little food and a nap will do her good.
>>
>>4278131
>Chastise her for staying up all night
>"We have the luxury of extra time and relative safety, there's no reason not to take advantage of it"
Also >>4278141
>>
>>4278141
+1
>>
>>4278141
we are ahead. A little hunt won't hurt anyone.
Also see how the bank robberies are doing
>>
>>4278141
+1
Don't burn your self out, we are gonna your muscles to defend us
>>
>>4278685
What?
>>
>>4278713
he probably meant "we are going to need you in top shape to defend us"
>>
>>4278713
>>4278789
Phone posting, my bad
>>
File: 89.png (22 KB, 1180x1247)
22 KB
22 KB PNG
>>4278144
>>4278141
>>4278163
>>4278685

>Suggest she take a break and rest, and let Magnus graze a bit. A little food and a nap will do her good.
>Chastise her for staying up all night
>"We have the luxury of extra time and relative safety, there's no reason not to take advantage of it"

"We have the luxury of extra time and relative safety, there's no reason not to take advantage of it." You chastise the knight. "Don't you think it's time to take a break?"
"Every minute we spend with the princess on board increases our chance of some bandits or mercenaries or monsters cutting our throats and taking her themselves." She responds grimly. "Don't get too easygoing. We're lucky enough that Kirin is this close. But.. I'll rest. For just a little bit."

The knight stands up from the seat, slipping her helmet off and removing her breastplate. "Keep an eye on the princess. I'll only be out for a couple of hours."

>What do you do?
>>
>>4279065
>Keep an eye on the princess for a few hours
>>
>>4279065
>Check on Galia
>Wakey wakey eggs and bakey
>>
File: 90.png (20 KB, 1180x1247)
20 KB
20 KB PNG
>>4279067
>>4279077

>Keep an eye on the princess for a few hours
>Check on Galia
>Wakey wakey eggs and bakey

You slip past Ana to wake up Galia, ready for your English lessons. Approaching your room, you open your room to see.. the princess wide awake, sitting on your bed with the breakfast tray on her lap. It's empty save for a few crumbs of salami scattered across your floor and blanket. She ate both your and her portion.

"Hmm? Ready for your lesson, merc?" She looks up, wiping some from her mouth.

>What do?
>>
>>4279135
Call her a fat bitch

But really, let her know she ate the portion size meant for two people. One of which was your own. Let her know you will start the lesson after having a much needed breakfast as it is the most important meal of the day.
>>
>>4279138
This but like the second part
>>
>>4279138
This
ANTS! THIS IS HOW YOU GET ANTS PRINCESS! NOT EVEN THE NORMAL ONES!
>>
File: 91.png (20 KB, 1180x1247)
20 KB
20 KB PNG
>>4279138
>>4279151
>>4279153

>Call her a fat bitch
>But really, let her know she ate the portion size meant for two people. One of which was your own. Let her know you will start the lesson after having a much needed breakfast as it is the most important meal of the day.

You get close to calling her a fat bitch. "That was meant for me AND you." You glower at her. "I'll start the lesson after I get my breakfast."
"S-sorry. Not my fault you mercs eat so little." She stutters, clearly put off by that. "Back at the capital, they gave me TRIPLE that for breakfast. Must be why all of you are so malnourished and sickly looking."

You go back downstairs, carving yourself off some more hunks of lizardman cheese while cursing under your breath. As you return, the princess eyes the cheese greedily. ".. Okay, you ready now?" She sighs.

>What do you do?
>>
>>4279135
Why is my plate of food empty? Did you eat my portion? How am I going to function at tip top shape if I have not had the most important meal of the day?
>>
>>4279172
Well lets start the lesson...while I eat my cheese
>>
>>4279172
yes. how did you plan to do it? are you going to write something, or do you have a book you think would work?

if she wants to write, but lacks tools:
Sigrid probably has something. Ana too, but she didn't sleep tonight, so we shouldn't wake her.
>>
>>4279172
>scattered across your floor and blanket
Did we get this cleaned yet?
>>
>>4279209
>>4279213
Supporting

>>4279250
DEFINITELY supporting. I hate crumbs in the bed.
>>
>>4279172
share your cheese
>>
>>4279250
Definitely get those crumbs out of the bed.
>>4279209
Support.
>>4279273
She already had two whole breakfasts anon this is our cheese
>>
>>4279065

I am hawt for Merc Mommy, holy shit.
>>
>>4279293
ana is a canon mom confirmed
>>
File: 92.png (19 KB, 1180x1247)
19 KB
19 KB PNG
>>4279258
>>4279250
>>4279209
>>4279250
>>4279213

>Well lets start the lesson...while I eat my cheese
>yes. how did you plan to do it? are you going to write something, or do you have a book you think would work?
>Definitely get those crumbs out of the bed.

You wipe the crumbs from your blanket, sitting next to her on the bed. "We'll do it while I eat." You mutter through a mouthful. "How did you plan on doing it? You writing something? Or getting a book?.."
Galia gets up, squatting down to pull something out from underneath your bed. Before you get a chance to object, she removes her steamer trunk from underneath it. Clicking open the locks, she removes a notebook and a fancy ink quill.

"Let's start with what you know. Write your name." She tosses you the book and quill.

You begin your lesson with Galia.

>Roll a 1d20 to determine how quickly you grasp her teaching.
>>
Rolled 2 (1d20)

>>
Rolled 13 (1d20)

>>4279349
EDUCATION
>>
Rolled 1 (1d20)

>>4279349
IM LERNING
>>
File: 1587221829631.jpg (61 KB, 399x550)
61 KB
61 KB JPG
>>4279362
we alreadyy used our freebie crit fail card. Scruffy is too dumb and his father didn't have the heart to tell him.
>>
Rolled 11 (1d20)

>>4279362
ah fuck
looks like we forgot how to write our own name
>>
File: GODDAMNIT.png (22 KB, 696x552)
22 KB
22 KB PNG
>>4279362
FUCK
>>
>>4279364
we worked out a better system because there's so high chance of crit fail when they override on three dice.
>>4273524
>>
File: 1589974255350.png (150 KB, 289x289)
150 KB
150 KB PNG
>>4279376
>actually, that might lead to hard feelings when someone doesn't know or there's disagreement whether the current result is good enough.

>how about just crit fail overrides on only the first of the three dice?
>so rolling 1, 9, 19 is a crit fail
>but 9, 1, 19 is a good success.
>that's a 5% crit fail chance.


>or crit fail means any dice after that don't matter, but doesn't override?
>1, 19, 9: crit fail
>9, 1, 19: normal fail
>19, 1, 9: good success
>that means it's still a 5% crit fail chance, but probability of normal fail also increases a bit.
noiice. Dad will be proud.
>>
File: 93.png (36 KB, 1180x1247)
36 KB
36 KB PNG
>>4279360
>Rolled 13 (1d20)

Luckily, you ALMOST fail, but given the dice system, you're able to scrape by. While initially frustrating, the princess is a surprisingly patient teacher for someone who was so previously cold. After a couple of hours, you end up getting the hang of your alphabet and gain a grasp of reading out larger words.

"M--.. merk-.. merc--.." You squint at the simple block lettering the princess presented to you.
"Sound it out." She responds.
"Mersehnayry. Mercenary." You clear your throat.
"Good!" She smiles. "Well-.. I can't exactly teach you how to read in two days. But maybe after this is over-.. you can visit the capital sometimes. I'll buy you a nice tutor."

To tell the truth, you almost want her to keep teaching you even after this is done. You hear a thump as the caravan begins to careen into gear again. You guess Ana woke up.

>What do you do?
>>
>>4279390
>go and check on everyone
>>
>>4279390
Thank her for helping you, then tell her if she ever eats your portion again you are going to kick her out of the caravan (as a joke of course)
>>
>>4279390
Switch out with Sigrid and go greet the ex-bandits. Attempt conversation with Gobbo via drawings.
>>
>>4279390
>"Thanks. I honestly appreciate it. You'd make a pretty good teacher. It was almost worth the loss of my breakfast (said teasingly)."
>>
File: 94.png (6 KB, 879x688)
6 KB
6 KB PNG
>>4279440
>>4279398
>>4279398

>>"Thanks. I honestly appreciate it. You'd make a pretty good teacher. It was almost worth the loss of my breakfast (said teasingly)."
>Switch out with Sigrid and go greet the ex-bandits. Attempt conversation with Gobbo via drawings.

"Thanks. I honestly appreciate it. You'd make a pretty good teacher. It was almost worth the loss of my breakfast." You jeer.
Galia pouts. "It's not MY fault that you've got no food on this shitheap." She whines. "You're way too skinny."

After switching out with Sigrid to watch Galia - you opened the door to her chanting at a helmet, but you don't question it - you decide to go greet the ex-heisters. Climbing down the rung, you see Ana sitting back at the helm with Magnus, but she pulls you aside before you can leave.

"Good. I was just about to go tell everyone. We're in trouble." She says in a low tone. She motions over to the opening of the convoy beyond Magnus, where you see a long, thin sliver of purple cresting over the horizon. "Do you see that?"
"What?" You squint.
"It's another mercenary caravan. The Royal." She grimaces.

>What do you do?
>>
>>4279473
>take miyuki for more stealthy scouting but make sure she changes into something smaller before she gets there this time
>>
>>4279473
Who are the royals? I am guessing more bounty hunter then merc right? Are they stopped waiting, or are the patrolling for something? I think regardless ana, It's clear a couple of us should make our way there and see what we can do.
>>
>>4279473
Think we can take em if things go flip side? I can warn Claire and friends.
>>
>>4279473
what do you know about them?

I guess we'll need to keep the princess and the new additions inside.
do you know if the motor carriage is wanted?
>>
File: 95.png (8 KB, 879x688)
8 KB
8 KB PNG
>>4279486
>>4279489
>>4279481

>Who are the royals? I am guessing more bounty hunter then merc right? Are they stopped waiting, or are the patrolling for something? I think regardless ana, It's clear a couple of us should make our way there and see what we can do.
>what do you know about them?
>Think we can take em if things go flip side? I can warn Claire and friends.

"What do you know about them?" You stare at the slowly growing purple peak. "Are the stopped, or are they patrolling?"
"The Royal has been running for a while. Run by this dwarf called Vladof. I've met a few times. They've been friendly to me, but they're cutthroat when it comes to competition. They wouldn't hesitate to butcher us if they knew what we had on board." She grimaces. "When two caravans come near each other, its customary to stop and trade a little. If we don't, they might end up suspicious."
"Do you think we could take them if things go flip side?" You ask.
".. I'm not sure. They've got some competent mercs." Ana responds quietly. "They've definitely seen us already."

>What do you do?
>>
>>4279524
Tell the princess to stay inside incase the caravan is in a murderous mood.
>>
>>4279524
what if we used the motor carriage? send off a team in that to "investigate" something well away from here for a couple of hours and rejoin the cart later. team happens to be me plus everyone we don't want them to see.
>>
>>4279524
Ok big brain plan:
Oni gobbo and princess hide and disguise if possible. Then we pretend to be a needy little bitch constantly whining about making it to the next town and openly blackmailing Ana with (fake) secrets when we start trading with the royals. Hopefully they'll be too disgusted/sympathetic to look carefully as Ana apologizes profusely and begs to leave in "embarrassment".
>>
>>4279557
I second this, Put on a persona of being a needy whiny bitch, and then they will just think butcher block is just dropping us off at the capital. There seems to be a shitton of them. The more of a head start we get, the less fighting we do
>>
Should we ask Miyuki to watch over the princess to free up Sigrid in case things get violent? I like the idea of gathering all of Gobbos explosives in case things get too hairy.
>>
>>4279572
in general, keeping some of what we want to hide in the spooky changeling assassin's room might be helpful if they're staying on the cart. she probably won't be expected to be social. don't know how she'd react to having strangers in her room, though. we haven't even been there.
>>
File: 96.png (23 KB, 1180x1247)
23 KB
23 KB PNG
>>4279557
>>4279571

>Oni gobbo and princess hide and disguise if possible. Then we pretend to be a needy little bitch constantly whining about making it to the next town and openly blackmailing Ana with (fake) secrets when we start trading with the royals. Hopefully they'll be too disgusted/sympathetic to look carefully as Ana apologizes profusely and begs to leave in "embarrassment".
>I second this, Put on a persona of being a needy whiny bitch, and then they will just think butcher block is just dropping us off at the capital. There seems to be a shitton of them. The more of a head start we get, the less fighting we do

"We'll hide the heisters and the princess. Maybe disguise them. Then I'll pretend to whine about getting to the next town as quick as possible." You think aloud. "I could blackmail you with fake secrets when we start trading. Then you could just ask to leave out of embarrassment."
"Could work. They're a pretty nosy group, so we'll have to be extra careful. Might start asking if they don't see any other mercs, and they'll be especially prying given that there's such a huge public bounty on the princess." She mutters. "Better hurry. We're getting close."

>What do you do?
>>
>>4279642
>and they'll be especially prying given that there's such a huge public bounty on the princess.
Easy. What comes around goes around, we start digging into them asking if they have the princess.
Right. lets go warn the others.
>>
>>4279665
Supporting
>>
>>4279665
+
>>
>>4279665
warn the robbers first, since they might take the most time to sort out.
>>
File: 97.png (13 KB, 1086x637)
13 KB
13 KB PNG
>>4279665
>>4279680
>>4279855
>>4279861

>warn the robbers first, since they might take the most time to sort out.

You nod, heading to the back of the convoy by looping around. You take a breath before knocking - Shibumi opens the door with Claire and Grobbo peering out nearby. Behind him, you can see that the van is still filled to the brim with coin. You explain the situation - that another merc convoy that likely won't be so kind is fast approaching, and they're likely to press to determine if ours is worth taking from.

".. Right. I see." He nods. "Where would you like us to hide?"

>Where do they hide?
>>
>>4279925
How fast can he modify some of the gold and the interior of this carriage so it' looks like it's got gold furniture / also make a hidden compartment for the three of them? Can he make the gold look like a different kind of metal? If no, could he sacrifice what armor/metals in the room they have to do the hidden compartment cabinet idea to cover it in a thin sheet of steel/iron metal to make it look like its made of that stuff?
Yeah I'm thinking we could make the excuse of saying we're using this carriage for a storage room. If you're fast enough you could make crude metal cabinets and lockers, in addition to hiding the gold in there.

Good or bad idea Shibumi?
>>
File: 98.png (14 KB, 1086x637)
14 KB
14 KB PNG
>>4279937
>How fast can he modify some of the gold and the interior of this carriage so it' looks like it's got gold furniture / also make a hidden compartment for the three of them? Can he make the gold look like a different kind of metal? If no, could he sacrifice what armor/metals in the room they have to do the hidden compartment cabinet idea to cover it in a thin sheet of steel/iron metal to make it look like its made of that stuff?

"How fast could you modify the gold or interior of this carriage to look like it's got furniture? Or a hidden compartment for you?" You peek behind him at the mountains of it. "Can you make gold look like a different kind of metal? Or sacrifice what armor-"
"Slow done, kid." Shibumi places a hand on your shoulder. "I'm good, but furniture isn't exactly my specialty. Even then, it'd take far too long. Best to leave this place be and hope they don't snoop."

>What do you do?
>>
>>4279951
alright, Follow me, we have a storage closest grob can hide in, and then we can ask Sigrid, and Miyuki to hide you 2, along with the princess in their rooms. There as long as you guys can hide/keep quite, we can get along without a hitch. Be ready though. Who knows what might happen
>>
>>4279981
why are you excluding our room?
>>
File: 99.png (99 KB, 2202x1098)
99 KB
99 KB PNG
>>4279981
>>4280001

>alright, Follow me, we have a storage closest grob can hide in, and then we can ask Sigrid, and Miyuki to hide you 2, along with the princess in their rooms. There as long as you guys can hide/keep quite, we can get along without a hitch. Be ready though. Who knows what might happen

You spend the next ten minutes organizing everything - taking the heisters out of the motor carriage and sneaking them in through the back of the main convoy up to the rooms of your fellow mercs as well as alerting the princess to the new arrivals. By the time you're done, Shibumi and Claire are in Sigrid's room while Galia hides in Miyuki's, with Grobbo hiding in a storage closet - he's actually pretty easy to hide, so you don't need to worry too much about him.

The train of caravans lurches to a stop in front of the Butcher Block. Rather than building vertically, they built horizontally, which likely makes more sense but looks significantly less cool.

>What do you do?
>>
>>4280054
nag at Ana. Why have we stopped? I thought we were going to the city. I am boooorrreeeeeded.
>>
>>4280060
+
>>
File: 100.png (22 KB, 1833x1098)
22 KB
22 KB PNG
>>4280060
>>4280065
>>4280065

>nag at Ana. Why have we stopped? I thought we were going to the city. I am boooorrreeeeeded.

Ana steps off the reins in her full set of plate and begins to march toward the caravan stationed in front of you, steely and solemn. You follow close behind. You watch as two mercenaries leave The Royal in front of you: a stout, brown-bearded dwarf in a set of black plate adorned with dwarven engraving and a female orc adorned in leather and fur.

"Vladof." Ana regards him coldly.
"Ana! Been a while." Vladof greets the knight warmly. "How're things going with the Butcher Block?"
"Fine." She responds tersely.
"Same as always, I see. I suppose that's what you get with an Ashen Lions vet." He shrugs. "Things haven't been going too well with us. We ran into this band of bandits along the ro-"
"Can we hurry it up? Have we just stopped to talk?" You cut in, scowling. "I thought we were bee-lining it to Kirin, Ana. I'm booooooooooooored."
The dwarf furrows his brow. "Isn't your son a bit.. young, to bring to work Ana?"

>What do you do?
>>
File: 1590603198183.png (103 KB, 639x905)
103 KB
103 KB PNG
>>4280121
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ydgY5fskwjE

>"Isn't your son a bit.. young, to bring to work Ana?"
Oh she's my mommy alright :^)
>>
Hey op How old is scruffy? I have been thinking he is like 15-17 that age range.
>>
>>4280121
look at Ana for a second, then start laughing at the thought.

>>4280146
he had just turned 18 at the start of Minecraft quest. that's probably at least a year ago.
>>
>>4280121
>"Who you callin son gramps?"
>>
>>4280160

idea for later, because I won't be around to vote:
get in beside her/onto her lap and hamfistedly take the reins
"nobody wanted to trade anything, you're just wasting time"
"come on, Magnus."
>>
>>4280160
oh this quest is a squeal to one from before? You got an archive link? i Kinda want to read through it
>>
>>4280195
http://suptg.thisisnotatrueending.com/qstarchive/3686205/
Here you go
>>
>>4280209
from as far as I've read, it's run by a character from Hikikomori Quest, who has no idea what she's doing. so it takes a while to get to this setting and character.
>>
File: Great landscape.jpg (41 KB, 750x490)
41 KB
41 KB JPG
>>4280209
>>4280215
ima be real kings, I did not understand the fuck is going on, shitposting on discord, made a precursor to this quest. Who ever this op is, they seem to be eccentric
>>
Hey OP. Fun quest so far.

Just wanna say all the girls are super cute. And the not-girls too. Even Magnus is extremely dapper.
I'm torn between Galia and Claire on who's the prettiest though.

>>4280160
That was technically a different character I think, different name. It's likely more of a spiritual successor to Minecraft Quest rather than a direct continuation. No blood oath to kill demons, and it sounds like we are markably more experienced than the other one in terms of general merc work and survival.

We can still probably use the "younger than we look, but impertinently insistent about our age" as a solid angle to keep the angry whining up and make Vladof want to bail. Alternatively, it'll just make us look more suspicious and cause them to want to hold us up longer to trade.

>>4280121
Perhaps we don't go over the top with the angry baby noises. See if at some point Ana can tell us to go get some things to trade, so we can keep up appearances, and just let things end naturally before we head our own ways. Maybe jokingly remark that they might want some of Sigrids' gross reagents.
>>
File: 101.png (25 KB, 1833x1098)
25 KB
25 KB PNG
>>4280286

>Perhaps we don't go over the top with the angry baby noises. See if at some point Ana can tell us to go get some things to trade, so we can keep up appearances, and just let things end naturally before we head our own ways. Maybe jokingly remark that they might want some of Sigrids' gross reagents.

You clear your throat to speak out, but Ana cuts into Vladof before you can. "He's not my son." She glowers. "Are you here to trade?"
"Well, that's exactly it, Ana," Vladof continues. "We ran into a spot of trouble earlier along the route. A band of bandits - well versed, evidently - cast a hush spell on a few carriages and robbed us of meat and coin. We were hoping to trade what little we had to get us to a town. We're scraping by enough as is."
"I see. What're you willing to offer?" Ana maintains her distance.
"Let's do business inside the block, eh? Like civilized men." Vladof begins to lumber toward your caravan with his orc companion.

>What do you do?
>>
>>4280985
torn between:
groan and start wandering into their caravan
and
groan, go back to the motor carriage to sulk, wait a bit, then start shouting about someone snooping (whether or not someone does)
>>
>>4280985
Gobbo is hidden away and the otherw in their rooms. Should be fine?
>>
>>4280985
Ask the dwarf and orc if they ever get it on. You know the whole size play thing.
>>
>>4281042
not this.
they need to make the transaction because they had their stuff stolen. insulting them will just slow it down, it won't dissuade them.
>>
>>4280985
if Ana goes with them:
groan, sit down in Ana's place and start playing with the reins while staring at anyone who comes out of their caravan.
>>
File: 102.png (76 KB, 1833x1847)
76 KB
76 KB PNG
>>4281020

>groan, sit down in Ana's place and start playing with the reins while staring at anyone who comes out of their caravan.

You groan, following alongside Ana as she comes with Vladof into the Butcher Block. The four of you sit at the main floor of the caravan - Ana facing Vladof and the orc while you play with the reins on Magnus. Ana shares some Cavendish Whiskey and cheese as you listen to them speak. It's largely boring as they bargain over the price of some food and weaponry. The dwarf tries persuade her to lesser prices in light of their situation.

"Hmph. Do you.. smell that?" The orc cuts into the bargain, grimacing.
"Probably me. Haven't gotten the chance to shower in a week." Ana responds quickly.
"It's not human. Or halfling, or changeling. Something.. weird." She grimaces.
"Gah, relax. Ana doesn't smell that bad." Vladof snorts, downing a glass. "Nonetheless, I'm interested in picking up some magical material, too. Mind if I take a peek around the halfling's room again, see some wares?"
"Ah, well-.." Ana side-eyes you.

>What do you do?
>>
>>4281069
She's right Ana. You do smell a bit.

>"Nonetheless, I'm interested in picking up some magical material, too. Mind if I take a peek around the halfling's room again, see some wares?"
Hold on. Shes in a grump mood as of late. I shall go bribe the magic gremlin she cast a hex upon you.
Go to the kitchen, grab a wedge of cheese, and exadurate cautiously climbing up to her room.
>>
>>4281059
you mean Kristine? does she, you know, "deal" (drugs)? she's so cute, I didn't expect it. and she never offered me any.

(pretend Sigrid isn't with the caravan anymore and we haven't heard of her. don't deny there is a halfling, since the orc can smell there is.)
>>
>>4281069
>"You'd have to ask Sigrid, and she's generally averse to having people she doesn't know all that well in her room"
Supporting >>4281081

Also @THICC Orc
>"Yeah I'm part Elf. You can smell that?"
>>
>>4281084
Kristine is pronounced kris-tiin-eh with proper fricative r, it's a scandinavian name same as Sigrid. she's a rogue.

>>4281085
note the orc said "again", so she's been there before.
>>
File: 103.png (36 KB, 1833x1847)
36 KB
36 KB PNG
>>4281081
>>4281085

>"Yeah I'm part Elf. You can smell that?"

"Yeah. I'm part elf. Can you smell that?" You turn over your shoulder to the orc.
".. It's not elf. Not anything I've smelt before." She glowers at you.
"This caravan travels through all manners of towns and all kinds of people. It's nothing." Ana responds icily.

>"You'd have to ask Sigrid, and she's generally averse to having people she doesn't know all that well in her room"
>Hold on. Shes in a grump mood as of late. I shall go bribe the magic gremlin she cast a hex upon you.
>Go to the kitchen, grab a wedge of cheese, and exadurate cautiously climbing up to her room.

"You'd have to ask Sigrid, and she's generally averse to having people she doesn't know all that well in her room." You shoot out, glancing over your shoulder at the dwarf.
"That's quite alright. She's sold to me before." He nods, making a move for the rung - you quickly step up from the reins and hurry toward him.
"Hold on. Shes in a grumpy mood as of late. I shall go bribe the magic gremlin lest she cast a hex upon you." You nod quickly, making a move for one wedge on the base of the convoy before exaggerating a cautious climb up the ladder. You make it to her room, where she peers out.

"How's it going?" She whispers.

>What do you do?
>>
>>4281105
>They wanna check out your room, can you hide Galia somehow?
>Since you know ghost magic, can you make her invisible?
>Since you're a halfling, can you like... shrink her or something?
>>
>>4281105
Ask if she knows any hush spells to sneak Shibumi and Claire in our room, and if she knows any magic to remove smells.
>>
>>4281110
Galia's with Miyuki. Shibumi and Claire are with Sigrid
>>
>>4281105
GIVE CHEESE

>>4281110
Dude that's racist
>>
>>4281105
Vladof the dwarf wants to trade magic components with you. I said you were grumpy to buy time. we need to hide the others better or move them. there's an orc with him who can smell people's race, but hopefully she won't be coming up.

do you have any ideas?
>>
>>4281127
*wants to buy magic components from you
>>
>>4281116
I am
retard

>>4281122
ehhhhhhh (also supporting)
>>
File: 104.png (37 KB, 1833x1847)
37 KB
37 KB PNG
>>4281122
>>4281127
>>4281133

>GIVE CHEESE
>Vladof the dwarf wants to trade magic components with you. I said you were grumpy to buy time. we need to hide the others better or move them. there's an orc with him who can smell people's race, but hopefully she won't be coming up.
>They wanna check out your room, can you hide Galia somehow?
>Since you know ghost magic, can you make her invisible?
>Since you're a halfling, can you like... shrink her or something?

You throw her the cheese. She catches it in her mouth and begins to gnaw on it. "Vladof said he wants to buy magic components from you. I said you were grumpy to buy time. We need to hide the others or move 'em." You respond quickly. "There's an orc that can sniff out race, but hopefully she won't be coming up. Can you hide them somehow? Since you know ghost magic, can you make them, like, invisible? Or since you're a halfling, can you.. shrink them..?"
Sigrid stares at you. "I can't shrink people because I'm a halfling, no." She says, her face a blank. "And a hush spell is pretty advanced basic magic, which I'm not really familiar with. Our best bet.. probably move Claire and Shibumi to your room, right? Vladof doesn't really know you, so he probably won't pry in there. It'll be kind of a loud move, though.. Shibumi's not exactly light footed."

>What do you do?
>>
>>4281143
>Do the move
>"Tread lightly Shibumi"
>>
>>4281143
Teach him how to roll his feet and to move cautiously

What can she do with her ghost magic? Could she summon up a magic spirit to help lift him to the room?

You could also bring some stuff down from your room saying that there was a minor "accident".
>>
>>4281156

>>4281160
+
have her walk around and rearrange things like she's getting her room ready for a guest.
we pace back and forth outside.
>>
>>4281171
after like 30 seconds shout "I'm getting him now!" through her door and then go get Vladof.
>>
File: 105.png (75 KB, 1833x1847)
75 KB
75 KB PNG
>>4281171
>>4281160
>>4281171

>Teach him how to roll his feet and to move cautiously
>What can she do with her ghost magic? Could she summon up a magic spirit to help lift him to the room?
>Do the move
>"Tread lightly Shibumi"
>after like 30 seconds shout "I'm getting him now!" through her door and then go get Vladof.

"What can you do with your ghost magic? Summon a magic spirit to lift him to the room, or..?" You shoot a cautious look to the base, where you presume they're getting antsy.
"Way too cramped to summon a spirit to carry him." She mutters. "And too much setup. Just help him across. I'll move some furniture."

You spend the next few minutes with Claire and Shibumi - while Claire walks with unsurprisingly agility, Shibumi's a bit tougher as he scrapes his belly and sides against the walls as he "sneaks" out into your room. You head down to greet the dwarf.

"You can come up now." You let him know, sweating slightly. The room is silent - presumably from the noise you were making up there.
"You move a cow up there, kid?" Vladof leans over the table.
"Just Sigrid organizing her wares." You shoot back.
".. Right. Well, let's see what she's got!" He rubs his hands together as he begins to climb the rungs. Much to your dismay, the orc follows after him. You come up after Vladof while Ana stays below.

"Ah, Sigrid. It's been too long!" You listen to him greet the halfling from outside as you enter. The orc leans against the wall next to it, hunched over given the actual size of the convoy.
".. I'm going to go take a look at Miyuki." She looks at you suddenly. "You wouldn't have a problem with that. Do you?"
".. Why?" You ask, shooting a glance at the ladder leading to her room.
"Just a hunch." She mutters.

>What do you do?
>>
>>4281199
Sure, but only if you spare with me. Some people here can be a bore, but you look like someone who could put up a fight. We can make this interesting. I win, you owe me few secrets. You win, I'll owe you (how much coin do we have in our pocket?). Because they're still in need of money.

Hopefully Ana would had picked up on our conversation and have the initiative to move the princess.
>>
>>4281199
shout "Changeling! scary orc lady here for you! says she has a "hunch", you guys got a grudge or something?"

we'll just have to trust their quick thinking.
>>
>>4281219
calling her by race to sound like we don't really know her and are assuming she's screwed someone over because of racial stereotypes
>>
>>4281219
This
>>
>>4281219
>>4281229
ye
>>
File: 106.png (28 KB, 1212x1095)
28 KB
28 KB PNG
>>4281219
>>4281229
>>4281230
>>4281251

>shout "Changeling! scary orc lady here for you! says she has a "hunch", you guys got a grudge or something?"
>we'll just have to trust their quick thinking.

".. Fine, fine." You mutter, beginning to march over to the ladder leading to her room. "Changeling! Scary orc lady's here for you! Says she has a hunch. You got a grudge with her or something?"
"Move." The orc nudges you aside with ease as she climbs the ladder, getting up several rungs at once each step until she reaches the next block. You scurry up behind her.

She approaches the door and without knocking reaches for the knob - but before she can, the door opens. GALIA stands behind it, staring up at the wall of green flesh.
"Yes?" She asks.
"The-.. the princess-.." The orc begins, but her expression quickly shifts from shock to bitterness as her nose twitches in the air. "No... Miyuki. Why do you look like that?"

>What do you do?
>>
>>4281323
>Trust Miyuki/Galia's quick thinking and wait for their response
>>
>>4281324
if there's an awkward silence:
"so that's who it is. I mean, if you can look like that, why wouldn't you?"
>>
>>4281323
I dont know much about changelings. Maybe she found a picture of the princess and was practicing.
>>
>>4281323
Bonk her on the head. Knock big orc milker out stone cold. She did shove us.
>>
>>4281357
no
that's an excuse she could make for herself if it's true, it's weird if we make it.
>>
>>4281324
This
>>
File: 107.png (28 KB, 1212x1095)
28 KB
28 KB PNG
>>4281324
>>4281345
>>4281389

>Trust Miyuki/Galia's quick thinking and wait for their response
>"so that's who it is. I mean, if you can look like that, why wouldn't you?"

You trust Miyuki/Galia to think quickly, awaiting a response. The "princess" opens her mouth, but nothing comes out. She looks to you, sweating.

"So. That's who it is." You scoff. The orc looks back at you. "I mean, if you could look like that, why wouldn't you."
"Go away." "Galia" mutters as she begins to close the door. The orc sticks her foot between the door and the wall.
"Mind if I come in?" She opens it wider. You somehow doubt that that's a real question. "Just to take a peek."

>What do you do?
>>
>>4281427
The audacity of this orc! Tell her off for being a very rude guest barging into peoples rooms for no reason and that she should respect the gracious host for even allowing her to be here wasting our time when we should be going to the town already. Basically continue to whine and get louder to the point of yelling until she is uncomfortable enough to leave.
>>
>>4281433
Ye
>>
>>4281427
Alright lady I dont know who you are but you dont just shove your way into someone's room unless you're looking for trouble.
>>
>>4281427
"hey hey stop. Ana's going to be pissed if I let you kill the changeling, what the fuck did she do to you?"
ready vorpal dagger.
>>
>>4281427
You are not welcomed here you disgusting no mannered orc. Take the hint and leave.
>>
File: 108.png (15 KB, 1212x1095)
15 KB
15 KB PNG
>>4281433
>>4281445

>The audacity of this orc! Tell her off for being a very rude guest barging into peoples rooms for no reason and that she should respect the gracious host for even allowing her to be here wasting our time when we should be going to the town already. Basically continue to whine and get louder to the point of yelling until she is uncomfortable enough to leave.

"You are being VERY rude." You speak out from behind her, causing her to pause. "We let you in and you barge into someone's room for no reason and you're wasting our time and--"
You continue to prattle on like that in an EXTREMELY whiny voice - the orc slowly relinquishes her grasp on the door when she seems to realize what position she's in.

She clears her throat, grunting. "Sorry." She mutters, returning to the ladder rung and returning to the floor with Sigrid and Vladof. Both you and "Galia" let loose a sigh of relief as the towering woman disappears back under the block.

"Th-thanks." Miyuki whispers.

>What do you do?
>>
>>4281470
thumbs up.
watch what's happening downstairs.
save bonding and/or Galia making fun of us until we're past them.
>>
>>4281470
>>4281470
>H E A D P A T Miyuki before complimenting her on her quick thinking before going back down
>>
>>4281481
no
I feel like we can be seen from their caravan, and we were pretending not to know her much and be kinda racist against her.
later.
maybe even hug when she's normal again, it's uncomfortable to act racist.
>>
>>4281498
Oi fine let’s just head down while silently saying good job
>>
>>4281470
HEAD PAT BEST GIRL
Go back down all huffy
>>
kinda wondering why she chose this form.
orc didn't notice a half-elf smell. maybe changelings kinda imitate smell but also have their own, so she covered for Galia.
or she just paniced.
>>
File: 109.png (32 KB, 1833x1847)
32 KB
32 KB PNG
>>4281525
>>4281481

>H E A D P A T Miyuki before complimenting her on her quick thinking before going back down

You quickly headpat the elven changeling. Although still taller than you, Galia is MUCH shorter than Miyuki, so it's significantly less of a challenge. You return to the ladder and climb down the stairs, past Sigrid's room and reahcing the base of the convoy.

The orc and the dwarf are standing next to each other - Vladof with a massive burlap sack slung across his shoulders while Ana watches from nearby. "Ahh. Thanks for the business, Ana!" He clasps her hand, shaking it. "This should take us to Shwok. We can fill our tanks the rest of the way there."
"No problem." Ana nods. "See you around."
"Keep your son in line, alright?" He winks at you. "Sorry that Vaati was snooping in on your business, there. We'll be seeing you."

>What do you do?
>>
>>4281538
Wave mom's friends godbye
>>
>>4281538
don't answer.
think about cute Miyuki expressions. (to make our own expression affirm his suspicions)
>>
>>4281538
Wave at them before looking up at Ana and whine at her to please get back on the road.
>>
File: 110.png (92 KB, 2362x1249)
92 KB
92 KB PNG
>>4281585
>>4281563
>>4281545

>Wave at them before looking up at Ana and whine at her to please get back on the road.

You wave at them. Before Vladof leaves, though, he turns back to you and Ana, taking your hand in his and shaking it.
"I'll remember your generosity for the future. And it's always good to see a new mercenary out and about. Be seeing you around." He pats you on the back, leaning in close. "You must learn to hide her better, no? Even a dwarf can pick out the scent of half elf blood."

Your face flushes as the dwarf leaves, stepping out of the caravan and waving you goodbye jovially. You find yourself standing stiff and pale until the Royal disappears over the horizon, leaving the Butcher Block behind.

>What do you do?
>>
>>4281596
fuck off to our destination
>>
>>4281596
Spend bonding time with Miyuki while we fuck off to the next destination
>>
>>4281596
Let Ana know that they knew that we had the princess. Don't think they saw the criminals though.
Let the others know that its good to come out of hiding, and see if anyone needs anything/wants to talk as we proceed to fuck off to our destination.
>>
>>4281596
Spend bonding time with princess while we fuck off to the next destination

Eat a bigger portion of food than the little shit we normally eat.
>>
>>4281615
>>4281610
>>4281601

>fuck off to our destination

You decide to fuck off to your destination, letting the caravan roll on through as Ana takes the reins from Magnus. For now, you'll spend what time you have left bonding with your roommates.

[That's all for this thread! Thanks for reading. There should be one more thread left that'll be coming soon.)
>>
>>4281615
+
>>4281610
>>
>>4281621
Very nice thread with very nice waifus.
I guess I should start next mystery investigation quest now, huh
>>
>>4281746

based and scruffypilled, where's thread you hack
>>
File: maybe a lie.png (13 KB, 1600x1200)
13 KB
13 KB PNG
>>4281800
>>
>>4281812
>>4281800
>PeeKay lurking and fanarting the thread where the QM is the one that lurked and fanarted their's
Fun
>>
>>4281812
GIVE MILKY NOW
>>
>>4281621

AWWW ONE?! But this has been the only quest I've really liked in months!
>>
>>4282256
Well, the OP did say that it will be a short one last thread.
>>
If next thread is the last thread. Scruffy better be like mega brained high iq, and learn to read fast.
>>
File: ALT TIMELINE.png (65 KB, 1180x1247)
65 KB
65 KB PNG
>>4281800
Here some Alt Timeline stuff that happened with Scruffy.
>>
>>4282472
Nooooooooooooo
>>
File: 715371081686581298.png (522 B, 126x105)
522 B
522 B PNG
>>
File: 715371081745301647.png (365 B, 126x105)
365 B
365 B PNG
>>
File: 715371081577529405.png (569 B, 126x105)
569 B
569 B PNG
>>
>>4279065
No offense to OP, but is it just me or does Ana look slightly off?

At first I thought it might've been the neck feeling a little narrow, but now I think it might be the head being a bit small over all.
>>
>>4284014
I think it's that the neck is just a little too long
>>
>>4289454
>>4289454
>>4289454

mega brain IQ time



Delete Post: [File Only] Style:
[Disable Mobile View / Use Desktop Site]

[Enable Mobile View / Use Mobile Site]

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