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File: Herald Epic.png (669 KB, 1274x945)
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You are a Herald of Conquest, one who bears a flag and a message of war, violence, and domination that you are willing to deliver at all costs. You have a myriad number of items and skills at your disposal, as well as a few trusty comrades you’ve partied up with from the Adventurer’s Guild so you can gain the power and influence needed to spread word of your righteous cause.

Archive: http://suptg.thisisnotatrueending.com/qstarchive.html?tags=herald%27s%20journey

Twitter: https://twitter.com/HeraldQm

Current Status: https://pastebin.com/d4Z5Dbm7
>>
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RECAP OF LAST THREAD

The Super Conqueror Bros thwarted the orcish invasion and protected Rathalon from harm with minimal casualties, leading to them being praised as heroes and saviors of the city- with particular focus on you for your rousing speech.

Afterwards, you checked in on Trina, who seemed interested in sleeping with you, but you ended up turning her down and insisting you wait until marriage. Eventually due to the stress and dangers of your job, you both decided it would be best to break up for now.

Unfortunately, the next morning, you found that she had been kidnapped and Josh was murdered. You used the Elden Ring to figure out that Finley had captured her and taken her to the sewers, where you used your epic flute playing skills to rescue her and finish off that asshole, taking the behelit he’d retrieved after his brother threw it out for good measure.

Castor offered you an opportunity to become his champion, as well as explained what being the champion of a God entailed, but you politely declined and told him you needed to weigh your options first. Not long after, you also spoke to Aemis and received his blessing.

You then spoke to the old man at the library, asking him what behelits really were. He told you they were tools attracted to strong desires that the God of Evil used to lure mortals into sacrificing a loved one to become a demon- creatures imbued with divinity and the God of Evil’s essence who had their bodies and minds corrupted by it in exchange for power.

After hearing that, you did some exercise to clear your mind, only to slip into a flashback and reminisce about the time you met Master. You had a bit of a mental crisis over killing the harpy broodmother before coming to the conclusion that monsters didn’t deserve the same rights as people, marking you a Sapient Supremacist.

You spent a little bit of time catching a wretched fairy and hanging out with Clarissa, learning a bit more about her, as well as reflecting on your own feelings.

After a brief bit of meditation, you ran into Grug- a runaway orc with some important information about why the orcs really attacked. You were stopped by a mysterious ninja with Conquest magic who managed to nearly kill you- though you were saved by Castor at the cost of his Godhood- and maybe his very soul. You lost his boon as well as your left arm, though your friends all pitched in and bought you a new, custom-made set of plate armor.

After a brief discussion with Jeffrey about escorting Grug back to Krosh’tar to tell his people what was going on, you headed off with your friends to take care of a rescue quest in a tomb a couple days north first.
>>
>>4794250
>>4794252
Welcome back QM
>>
File: Travelling.png (12 KB, 400x400)
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”I’m just saying, it’s better than it sounds” Barret insists.

”Well, it sounds stupid. Why would you do that? What do you have to gain from folding a pizza in half?” you answer.

”It’s called a calzone and they’re delicious, boss man! I’ll have to treat you to one next time we’re in a proper city” he retorts.

You shake your head, wondering where your party’s fighter got such bizarre tastes. It’s already been a few hours since you left Rathalon, and you and your pals have been talking about whatever to pass the time. You’ve already learned a few things about each of them! Jeanne was forced to take piano lessons growing up and is apparently pretty savvy with one, Clarissa you learned the other day is apparently an artist herself who likes to paint, and Barret- Barret just has bad taste in food, apparently.

You let out a sigh as you walk, turning your head to take a better look at the scenery to keep yourself busy. It’s times like these that you would’ve played your flute before, but now with only one hand it’s...rather difficult. You can still manage it to an extent, but without two hands you can’t quite get the same notes or change them as quickly, and it’s heartbreaking enough that you don’t feel like bothering with it for now.

What DOES catch your attention, however, is a strange creature drinking from a nearby puddle- a horse that looks to have a horn protruding from it. Wait, is that…

”A unicorn?!” you ask, gasping as you stop and turn your attention to the seemingly majestic creature before you. You don’t know a lot about this world, but you DO know that unicorns are supposed to be wonderful, majestic steeds for the pure of heart, who are often believed to bring good luck to those that see them!
>>
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”Actually,” Jeanne interrupts, ”That’s a bicorn. Look closely- see how a second horn is spiraling around the first?”

You squint your eyes and lean a little closer. Surely enough, she’s right! Also, instead of a white coat with a pink mane, this creature’s got a dark blue coat with a purple mane. To be fair though, you’ve also never heard of a bicorn in your life before- you just thought it was a unicorn with drip. ”That’s just like, double the unicorn then, right? Extra lucky?” you ask.

Jeanne puts a finger and thumb to her temple. ”Not...quite. Bicorns devour kind-hearted and devoted husbands” she explains. ”That doesn’t describe any of us, so we should be fine, but it might hurt other travellers down the line if we don’t take care of it. I’ve never seen one so close to the roads before.”

The creature does stop to glare at Barret for a moment before turning to its drink. ”Alright, so we go down there, slay the thing, and keep moving?” you inquire.

”Well, they are magical creatures- it might not be worth the trouble. Depends on how much you care about random strangers, I guess” she casually admits with a shrug. ”I mean, who knows? Maybe it’ll go back into the forest soon and nobody will have to worry about it.”

You put a hand in your chin, contemplating it for a moment. You could either take care of it and make sure it doesn’t hurt anyone, or just leave it be and not take any risks- you are already missing one arm- why risk another body part? On another note though, the more you stare at the creature, the more you almost swear that it’s calling to you somehow…

>Attack the bicorn! It may hurt others down the line if you leave it be.
>Just let it go. No reason to mess with what you don’t understand.
>Attempt to ride the bicorn. (Available due to status as SINGLE and VIRGIN)
>Other (write in)

(2/2)
>>
>>4794261
>"Guys, I'm getting the inexplicable feeling of being called by this thing. Is that normal for the types of people bicorns eat when they come across one? Predator attracting prey in a subtle magical way?"
>"Barret, it glared at you. How are you feeling? Anything similar to me?"
>"What about you two? I want to be absolutely sure if we're feeling anything out of the ordinary that the bicorn might be causing."
Just to clear some things up before deciding to go in hostile, go in peaceful, or leave
>>
>>4794268
Agreed. It would also be cool as fuck if we could ride the bicorn but... it is evil.
>>
>>4794268
+1
>>
>>4794268
+1
we should totally beat this thing and take it as our mount, whos gonna stop us?
>>
>>4794268
>>4794305
>>4794306
>>4794308
A few questions before acting!

>>4794253
Thanks man, good to be back

Writing!
>>
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”Barret, the creature just glared at you. How are you feeling?” you ask, turning to face your companion.

”Huh? I’m uh, just fine, boss man. Maybe a little worried about dealing with an evil monster, but nothing else” he answers.

You decide to address Jeanne and Clarissa next. ”What about you two? I want to be absolutely sure if we’re feeling anything out of the ordinary that the bicorn might be causing.”

”All good over here, buddy” Clarissa calls out, yawning. ”So are you like, planning to do something, or…?”

”I’m fine as well” Jeanne asks, raising an eyebrow. ”Are you alright, Herald?”

”Well, to tell the truth, I’m getting the inexplicable feeling of being called by this thing. Is that normal for the types of people bicorns eat when they come across one? Predator attracting prey in a subtle magical way?”

Clarissa and Barret shrug, but Jeanne makes a distinct point to look away from you, as if suppressing a mixture of laughter and pity. ”I-I’m sure it’s nothing! Maybe it’s best to get moving after all”

”Jeanne,” you say in a chastising tone, ”it looks like you know something. Why won’t you tell me?”

”Herald I-I can’t. It might do unparalleled psychological damage to you- please, don’t make me say it” she pleads.

Looking around, you gently grab her by the arm and pull her aside, speaking in a hushed whisper. ”Come on, I need to know. Am I in danger? What’s going on?”

Eventually she capitulates, leaning in close to whisper in your ear so the others won’t hear. ”Bicorns have sometimes been known to be amicable to...hopeless virgins” she explains, saying the last part almost imperceptibly quietly. ”W-which is why you surely must be mistaken! I mean, you had a girlfriend until a little bit ago, right? Surely it must be some kind of mistake-” she stops mid sentence as she steps back and sees the way you hold yourself.

Can you ever mentally recover from this?

>”Actually, I was lying about that call thing- I think it was simply the call of CONQUEST!” (Attack the bicorn)
>”You know what, that guy from the quest really needs to be rescued- let’s forget this ever happened and keep moving” (Ignore it)
>Say nothing and move towards the creature (Attempt to ride the bicorn)
>Other (write in)
>>
>>4794495
>Say nothing and move towards the creature (Attempt to ride the bicorn)
virgin powers activate!
>>
>>4794495
>Say nothing and move towards the creature (Attempt to ride the bicorn)
There is no other way to regain our honour. Also it's fucking badass.
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>>4794495
>Say nothing and move towards the creature (Attempt to ride the bicorn)
Pet it on the head first. This majestic beast clearly knows about CONQUESTING
>>
>>4794495
>Say nothing and move towards the creature (Attempt to ride the bicorn)
>>
>>4794523
+1
>>
>>4794523
>>4794524
>>4794575
>>4794578
>>4794590
Attempt to ride the bicorn

Writing!
>>
File: tegaki.png (18 KB, 400x400)
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You quietly stride towards the bicorn. The creature looks up at you for a moment, but shortly returns to lapping at the puddle without making any sudden movements. Carefully, you approach the monster and gently pet it on the head. Its coat is soft to the touch as you run your hand up and down the side of its face.

”Easy, boy. I’m not gonna hurt you” you whisper.

You hear a voice speaking into your mind. I sense a great deal of potential within you, warrior. You have been wounded by a femoid, no? You understand the evils they hide deep within their hearts- they are the true monsters! They deserve no love or happiness, no kind, devoted husbands!

You’re admittedly taken aback by the beast’s comment, causing you to take a few steps away from it. ”Femoid? Uhh, are you talking about women? There’s nothing wrong with women- and my breakup with Trina was mutual!”

Was it? Hmm, is any breakup ever truly mutual? Or did she simply take you for granted? I call them femoids because they’re not worthy of having ‘men’ or ‘male’ appended to their designation. Come join forces with me, young virgin, and we shall show every femoid what you’re truly capable of!

You’re not sure how to feel about this magical misogynist, but you do sense some sort of power coming from it. On one hand, it might make a solid mount both for travelling and combat, but on the other hand you get the feeling that if you spend too much time around this thing, it might start to change the way you think about women. Do you really want to throw away any chance you have of getting laid?

>”I may need some new headwear soon. I’m thinking… a fedora?” (Gain ‘Incel’ bane in exchange for sweet mount)
>”Sorry weirdo, but I don’t hate women” (Leave and never look back)
>”Two of my best friends are women, and I don’t think I like your tone. How about you die?” (Stab this weird creature in the head. It’s guard is lowered, so you can likely kill it instantly without a fight)
>Other (write in)
>>
>>4794646
Hmm... Man this is a difficult call to make. The bicorn seems based but at the same time, Clarissa's a bro and Jeanne is okay for a noble. I'm going to personally abstain from this vote. Any outcome is good by me.
>>
>>4794646
>”Two of my best friends are women, and I don’t think I like your tone. How about you die?” (Stab this weird creature in the head. It’s guard is lowered, so you can likely kill it instantly without a fight)
Let's send this monster back to r*ddit the shadow realm.

>>4794651
It sounds pretty interesting and I'd totally join this holy beast if QM didn't mention fedora and call the bane 'Incel'.
>>
>>4794646
>>Other (write in)

I want to redeem this bicorn.

Let's find him a sexy as fuck unicorn or maybe just a regular filly and get him fucking laid.

OOOH, maybe a pegasus!!!!!
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>>4794685
That's a good point, but anon made on even better.

>>4794690
THIS, show him that being a badass supernatural horse doesn't mean he has to be alone. Let's guide him to CONQUEST, the CONQUEST of a girl who can know him for his, and who he can know for his own. We're the leader of the Super Conqueror Bros, and we know better than anyone that no-one should be alone.
>>
>>4794646
>Other (write in)
Women are monsters, though as long as they are led by a good male, their evil may be contained.
>>
>>4794646
>"I don't personally feel any need to spite them. You should really stop entangling your self worth and happiness to women. You can live a good life with or without them. The breakup was painful sure, but it's not like my life is ruined because of it. I'm more in favor of leaving my options open and seeing what happens without desperately lusting after things. I think it could help you out too. "

Also supporting
>>4794690
>>
>>4794712
I'm voting against this write-in.
>>
>>4794690
>>4794712
I vote against this as well
>>
+1 for trying to get him laid

>You hate femoids... Have you ever experienced one firsthand?
>>
Oh and welcome back QM! I hope your finals went well
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>>4794712
Voting against write-ins is lame shit but I don't agree with this approach
>>
>>4794837
You're right. It's kind-of a dick move.
>>
>>4794915
That and it makes keeping track of votes four times more complicated.
>>
>find cuckacorn
>we must uncuck him, get that horse dick wet!

I hate when quests start being about "fixing" flawed characters and things just because players want to perfect everything in their path or bend it to their will to have the best outcome possible. Each. Time.

If everyone's personality can be changed by the dice, every situation can be solved by high rolls and every tiny con can be removed or ignored, then nothing has a meaning and quest just becomes bland and uninteresting.
Sorry anons, had to point that out.
>>
>>4794690
support
we gotta save this guy and when that happens we get two magic mounts!
>>
>>4794940
mostly just cause I want to ride it without the need for getting a fedora, don't think that would look well on us.
>>
>>4794937

But, like, that's EXACTLY what non-incels try to do to incels IRL.

It's in fucking character of the universe to tell incels that they'll change if they just find and interact with a woman.

And its also true.
>>
>>4794651
>>4794685
>>4794690
>>4794703
>>4794707
>>4794712
>>4794815
>>4794940
"I can fix you"

>>4794715
>>4794731
I can't remember if I've allowed 'anti-votes' before (I don't think I have), but I'm against them inherently. If you allow them, then once people are heated enough they'll start using them constantly to go against people with a different popular idea imo, so I think I won't do them. Also, like >>4794924 said, makes things harder to track.

>>4794820
They did actually, managed to finish with all A's. Glad to be back- thanks for playing!

For this maneuver, I'm going to need someone to roll 1d20+9 (+6 for CHA, +3 for Persuasion). You need a 25 or higher to succeed. No Sapient Supremacy malus because a Bicorn is more of a beast than a race.
>>
Rolled 7 + 9 (1d20 + 9)

>>4794961
>>
>>4794971
fuck me . . . i tried bros, i tried
>>
Rolled 7 + 9 (1d20 + 9)

>>4794961
nice job QM!
Also, on the idea of anti votes, it will just become a shitshow.
Just vote for the opposite which is more than enough.
>>
>>4794971
>>4794978
>>4794979
art imitates life my friend.
>>
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”You say you hate femoids” you start, pausing for a moment before using the strange word that the bicorn insists on calling women, ”but have you ever experienced one first hand?”

At this, the creature whinnies, rearing on its hind legs before slamming back down to the ground. Of course I have! They’re all the same- rotten fuckwhales that will take you for everything you have! I’m sure you bought your last girlfriend plenty of expensive gifts, right? And where did that leave you?

For all the insane stuff this creature spouts, that last comment did admittedly hit a little close to home. Just how much jewelry did you get Trina? Wait, no- you won’t fall for this bullshit! ”Look, let me help you find a nice gal, and maybe you’ll realize women aren’t that bad” you insist.

Not that bad? Are you insane?! Fucking hell, get away from me- you’re clearly not the kind of man I thought you were the bicorn responds with a snort.

*Failure*

Well, it doesn’t look like that’s going to work, and furthermore it doesn’t seem keen on letting you ride it now either. You’re either going to have to put this creature down or leave it be- it seems done with negotiating.

”Are we doing this or not, boss man?” Barret shouts, waving his sword in the air.

”Can we just get moving again? We’ve still got a long way to go” Clarissa whines, anxiously tapping her foot.

>Attack the bicorn, you can’t risk letting it harm other travellers.
>Leave it be. Hopefully one day it will learn the error of its ways.
>Other (write in)
>>
>>4795017
>>Leave it be. Hopefully one day it will learn the error of its ways.

I'm done with this meme, let's not waste time fighting it
>>
>>4795017
"Look, we're sorry it had to come to this."

>Attack the bicorn, you can’t risk letting it harm other travellers.

I wasn't expecting that to actually work, to be honest, but I felt like we needed to try.
>>
>>4795017
>Attack the bicorn, you can’t risk letting it harm other travellers.
>Attempt to cut off the horns to demotivate it

Let's send it to shadow realm!
>>
>>4795017
>Attack the bicorn, you can’t risk letting it harm other travellers.
meme lasted while it could, now lets do our job.
>>
>Stab stab stab

Time to die
>>
>>4795030
>>4795034
>>4795065
>>4795066
>>4795170
Fight the bicorn

Writing! Going to do 30 minute post rounds (or attempt to) for as long as I hold out. If we don't finish the fight tonight, we will resume sometime tomorrow morning.
>>
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You let out a heavy sigh. It’s a shame- you were really hoping that the bicorn would see reason and change its ways, but it just wasn’t meant to be. ”Look, I’m sorry it had to come to this” you tell the creature as you gesture for your companions to come closer before drawing Decimator.

Oh this is rich! Now you’re involving your femoid friends in this fight? I’m going to fucking gut you with my horns, asshole! the creature says as it begins stamping its back foot- readying itself to charge.

Even still, you have the advantage and are able to act first!

>Attack (If no weapon specified, then it’s assumed Decimator)
>Use a technique (Which one?)
>Do something fancy (What?)
>Give commands (What?)
>Other (write in)

---

First voting round will actually be ~an hour because I actually have to do something with my pops!
>>
>>4795460
>>Other (write in)

Flee
>>
>>4795460
>Attack (Decimator)
>"Your so fixated on the ones you see, you forgot the ones behind you!"
the classic trick em and hit em.
>>
>>4795522
+1
>>
>>4795513
>>4795522
>>4795527
Roll 1d20+5 (+5 for DEX) to hit! You need a 16 or higher to make it.

If you succeed, roll 1d10+8 (+7 for STR, +1 for Good Quality) for damage!
>>
Rolled 1 (1d20)

>>4795528
>>
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>>4795530
>>
Rolled 7 + 6 (1d20 + 6)

Bicorn is going after Barret, so will do the rolls now so I can jump straight into your next combat round.

First roll is to hit him. Bicorn needs a 16 or higher.
>>
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”You’re so fixated on the ones you see, you forgot the ones behind you!” you shout with a malicious grin.

The bicorn immediately turns around as you charge forward, Jeanne blasting a firebolt as well. Unfortunately, the firebolt goes wide, and right as you’re about to swing Decimator down, the bicorn kicks backwards with its hoof, knocking the wind out of you as you stumble away from it. Thankfully it didn’t hit hard enough to do any damage, but you definitely felt it.

On the bright side, Clarissa manages to land a solid shot in its flank while it turns around, causing it to whinny in pain as it kicks its front legs up again.

*Bicorn’s Health: -9 (41/50)*

Next, Barret charges forth from behind you and lands a solid slice on its back before he maneuvers around to the creature’s side, blood spouting from the wound!

*Bicorn’s Health: -15 (26/50)*

The monster does not look pleased with this, and begins charging towards Barret with all its might! Thankfully, your friend manages to roll out of the way just in time as the creature barrels straight into a tree. With a resounding crack, you watch the tower of lumber slide off the creature’s horn and fall over, creating a loud thump as it turns its attention back to your group.

>Attack
>Use a technique (Which?)
>Do something fancy (What?)
>Give commands (What?)
>Other (write in)

---

30 minute voting round!
>>
>>4795513
Yeah, going with flee. He didn't do shit to us personally but talk, and now we're attacking him, proving him right.
>>
>>4795551
>Attack
"IMMA CUT YOUR HORN(S) MO'FUCKA"
>>
>>4795551
>Attack
>>
>>4795551
>>Other (write in)
>>4795552

Flee chads want no part of this. We're currently violating the NAP
>>
>>4795551
>Attack
Keep on going boys, we don't back off from a fight once we start it.
>>
>>4795552
>>4795553
>>4795562
>>4795568
>>4795600
Roll me 1d20+5 (+5 for DEX). You need a 16 or higher to hit.

If you make it, roll me 1d10+8 (+7 for STR, +1 for Good Quality) for damage!
>>
Rolled 9 + 5 (1d20 + 5)

>>4795603
>>
>>4795603
>>4795607

At this point we should let the women kill him. They have more right to it than us.
>>
Rolled 14 + 5 (1d20 + 5)

>>4795603
>>4795607
god damnit
>>
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Once more you charge at the bicorn, but this time it manages to trot out of the way as your serrated sword meets the ground, kicking up dirt and grass. Clarissa fires another arrow as well, but this time her aim misses due to the creature moving so quickly.

Barret, however, pushes his advantage and slices at the bicorn’s flank this time, more blood spewing out as it cries in pain, quickly stomping all around in a misguided attempt to gather its bearings.

*Bicorn’s Health: -10 (16/50)*

With that, the creature lowers its head as if it’s about to charge the fighter again, only for it to stop as it hears Jeanne call out.

”Firebolt!”

A dart of red flame slams into the creature’s flank, leaving a vicious burn as it topples over on its side!

*Bicorn’s Health: -11 (5/50)*

The creature isn’t weak enough to be unconscious yet, but it’s clearly no longer capable of escaping you and your crew, definitively stuck on its side- probably for the next few minutes. You and your teammates surround the bicorn as it looks up with anger and fear.

>Finish it off
>Takes its horns and leave
>Try to negotiate with it one last time. (If you fail, do you do one of the above choices or just leave?)
>Other (write in)
>>
>>4795627
>Takes its horns and leave
>>
>>4795627
>>Takes its horns and leave
>>Try to negotiate with it one last time. (If you fail, do you do one of the above choices or just leave?)
>>
>>4795683
Not closing the vote yet, but do I assume this is 'negotiate' and if that fails take its horns? Because it will NOT want to negotiate with you whatsoever if you take its defining feature
>>
>>4795697
yeah yeah, sorry. Negotiate then take horn, lol.
>>
>>4795627
>Finish it off
yeah lets not leave any loose ends
>>
>>4795683
+1
>>
Feeling pretty tired, so leaving this one up until tomorrow morning.

As always, thank you guys for reading and playing A Herald's Journey!
>>
>>4795627
>Finish it off
>Takes its horns and leave

Thanks for running, man--good to have you back!
>>
>>4795627
>Other (write in)
Have Clarissa tame it.
>>
>>4795860
+1

Let's end it's suffering. No reason not to take a trophy either, I'm sure it is useful in some kind of magic/potion.
>>
>>4795627
>Finish it off
We shouldn't spare dangerous monsters.
>>
>>4795627
>Finish it off
>Takes its horns and leave
After this event, Herald is gonna be way more determined to not end up like this bicorn
>>
>>4795647
>>4795683
>>4795711
>>4795776
>>4795860
>>4796003
>>4796163
>>4796175
>>4796430
Finish it off

Writing!
>>
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For a moment you consider trying to plead with the creature one last time and give it a second chance at getting some pussy and maybe changing its life. However, you think about the logistics of keeping it around. It would be difficult to prevent it from eating kind and devoted husbands wherever you went, and you’re almost certain it would be a great mental toll on the two women you’re travelling with, who’s company you value significantly more than this random monster.

You prepare to finish the creature off with a powerful slice from Decimator, raising your blade high above your head, only for an arrow to whizz by and lodge into the creature’s eyeball- doing him in. You slowly lower your blade in disappointment as Clarissa walks by and yanks the arrow back out, cleaning it off and sticking it in her quiver.

”Uhh, sorry man. You were taking too long” is what she says with a shrug. ”Oh hey, don’t forget to grab those horns- I bet they’ve got some magical shit you can do with them. Maybe they’d sell for a good price too” she adds in.

Deflated, you use Decimator’s serrated edges to start sawing the horns off, contemplating how you didn’t really do much in that fight. Is this a result of having lost your arm? Are you always just going to be a burden to the team? No, you can’t think like that. It was just bad luck fighting a type of opponent you’ve never faced before! Besides, even if it WAS because of your arm, you’ll surely learn how to fight better with one arm down the line and still be useful. No need to consign yourself to defeat and uselessness just yet, right?

By the time you finish your train of thought, the horns are off, laying there in the grass. You sheath Decimator and grab them, one horn still tightly wound around the other, and deposit them in your bag of holding. Surely you’ll find a use for these at some point.

With that settled, you picked yourself up off the ground and nod to your teammates. ”Let’s rock and roll.”

You spend the rest of the day travelling without much incident. At one point a merchant stops you and tries to convince you to buy some magic mushrooms, but Clarissa is strongly against it and explains exactly what kind of ‘magic’ they really do. Eventually, night comes, and so does the desire to sleep. Jeanne and Barret brought tents and sleeping bags for the crew and Clarissa sets up a fire while you check the perimeter for any danger, and before long you’ve got a nice campsite going.

>Talk to someone (Who? About what?)
>Do some solo training (Anything specific?)
>Set up a snare to catch some small game (Available due to SIMPLE TRAP CONSTRUCTION technique)
>Ask Jeanne if she’d be willing to try and teach you some magic
>Just head to bed and skip to the next morning
>Other (write in)
>>
>>4796494
>Set up a snare to catch some small game (Available due to SIMPLE TRAP CONSTRUCTION technique)

Purely because I wanna see Herald do it with just one hand.
>>
>>4796501
+1 for the lols
>>
>>4796501
>>4796549
Set up a snare :)

Writing!
>>
>>4796494
>Set up a snare to catch some small game (Available due to SIMPLE TRAP CONSTRUCTION technique)
Develop DEXTERITY and none can challenge the one-handed prowess
>>
I wonder if we could trickshot this snare with enough STR. Just snap it open mid-air and lay on the ground.
>>
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Right, you decide your time would best be spent working on a snare. Even though you still have four rations left, you tore through a lot of them when you overworked yourself training the other day, so it wouldn’t hurt to try and save them a little.

You realize after cutting off ten feet of rope, however, that this is going to be...difficult. Barret seems to notice your trouble and calls out to you. ”Heya boss man, you need help with that?” he offers.

On one hand, you know deep down that he’s genuinely just trying to be helpful and accommodating, but on the other, his offer kind of pisses you off. You already feel shitty about not being able to pull your weight in the fight against the bicorn. You can catch your own food, damn it! Pushing down your more negative emotions, you force a half-hearted smile hidden underneath your helmet and respond. ”All good over here!”

With that, you get to work. Making a snare with one arm is...incredibly difficult, and requires your entire body. You need to hold down the stake and the trigger with a foot while bending down to carve them out, for example. Tying the rope also requires the use of a foot, your arm, and even your teeth at times. You actually had to take off your helmet to make the damn thing, which was embarrassing and uncomfortable enough to make you wish you had accepted Barret’s help earlier.

Eventually, after almost an hour, you finish the daunting task and fall on your ass, taking in the simple trap. To think how much more difficult life would be with only one arm...you wish you had lost your leg instead! Well, you can’t really complain to be honest- if a literal demi-god hadn’t intervened, you’d be dead as a doornail right now. With Castor gone and your ass already saved by Barret once before, you get a sinking feeling that you won’t be able to depend on any more free handouts. Next time you’re in trouble, there’s a good chance it’ll be do or die- unless you’re willing to use one of those behelits…

You shake your head to get rid of such dark thoughts, picking yourself up as you head back towards the campfire. ”Alright, so which shift am I taking?” you ask, looking to your companions.

They each turn their gaze to one another before looking back at you with somewhat awkward expressions. Clarissa is the first to speak up. ”We...thought that maybe you should take it easy. I mean, there’s only three watches- us three can handle it, no problem! You just get a full night’s rest, Herald” she tells you.

”What?” you ask, somewhat incredulously. ”I’m not useless- let me help on the watch! I’m just as strong as ever!” you demand.

Jeanne quickly jumps up. ”No one’s saying you’re not! You just...don’t need to handle it every time, yeah? Go ahead and sit this one out” she pleads.

(1/2)
>>
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Somewhere deep down, you know they’re really just looking out for you. Even still, you can’t help but feel insecure about your new handicap- especially after the bicorn fight and the difficulties with the snare. You’re still the same, proud Herald of Conquest you always were! You’ll conquer this new disability as well in time!

...but what if you don’t? A nagging voice in the back of your head causes you to freeze up for a moment. What if this is the limit of what you can do now? Jeanne talked about getting you a fancier prosthetic, but she said herself nothing like that exists yet- it’s only possible. Even still, it would take so much time and money- and getting a cheaper prosthetic would only really let you hold a weapon or shield. Are you just always at a disadvantage now? Doomed to be a burden to the party?

For the briefest of moments your eyes wander towards your bag of holding. You’re confident using one of those behelits would get your arm back, and you definitely feel like you’ve got a strong enough desire to activate one without being on death’s door right now. Is your mind and soul worth forfeiting for it though? No, obviously not- you don’t intend to use such instruments of evil!

”I’m going to bed early” you tell the group, stomping off towards your tent before anyone can respond. You just need some sleep- that’ll help clear your head. You lay down and let yourself drift off into another dreamless slumber.

The next morning you wake up bright and early- Barret still sleeping soundly beside you. As you quietly get out of the tent, you realize the girls are still asleep too- one of them probably just having gotten off their watch- meaning you’ve got the first hour or two to yourself. A cursory glance shows that your trap seems to have worked- a small, white rabbit is caught inside it, hanging from a nearby sapling. You’ve never really cooked wild game before- Master usually handled that- but it doesn’t seem too difficult. Might be a chance to start learning another new skill!

Of course, you could wait until someone else is awake and let them handle that, and instead get some training done. You’ll need it now more than ever if you want to keep up with the party. Or maybe...maybe you need to vent a little anger- head out and find something to kill. There’s plenty of animals and monsters about if you look hard enough- it might even make you feel better.

>Skin the rabbit and try to cook it yourself
>Do some training (Anything specific?)
>Go exploring a little and look for something to kill
>Other (write in)

(2/2)
>>
>>4796676
>Wake up our bro Barrett
>Skin the rabbit and cook it together
>Tell him we're totally aware that our arm is missing and that we're not delusional, we just don't wanna be treated like a total cripple
then if there's time left
>Ask if he wants to help us train one-handed before the girls wake up

No need to waste time and possibly mess the rabbit up. We are at obvious disadvantage and don't have things worked out just yet. Let's cooperate and chill.

Maybe we should get rid of those behelits altogether, before they tempt us into doing something veery stupid.

Very nice rabbit drawing, HQM.
>>
>>4796676
Man this is a bummer. I remember hearing about a dude I knew from work breaking his back in an accident, and when I went to see him later he had very similar self-doubts going on. Let's vent. we've got a right to.
>Go exploring a little and look for something to kill
>>
>>4796711
support
there is a 100% chance someone is going to vote to use those things in the future.
Also, we need to get used to being one-armed until we get a mechanical one.
>>
We should gather a lot of money, head to a big city cleric, buy a True Resurrection spell and kill ourselves, getting reanimated with all our body parts intact.
>>
>>4796711
>>4796715
We can't just get rid of the behelits man. These fuckers are fated to go to someone, and I would rather we held onto them than risked them falling into someone else's hands. That sort of shit is exactly what happened with our girlfriend's kidnapping, last time we got rid of one.
>>
>>4796718
You're right and I don't think we can just destroy them. A difficult situation all around.
>>
>>4796717
Heads up (not closing the vote yet no worries), there are no forms of resurrection or bringing people back to life in this world.

The closest you can get are forms of undeath, but that is merely a body animated by magic without a soul. The only exception to this (at least that's currently known) are liches- who are made from wizards performing a complex ritual while they're alive that traps their soul in a phylactery so they can continue to live in undeath, but no one has ever brought a dead man back to life with their soul and mind in tact.

Healing magic can only stitch wounds back together, not regenerate body parts or bring back the dead- at least not currently.
>>
>>4796715
I was also thinking we could attempt to learn some very basic magic (if possible). It doesn't require two hands or handling and would help Herald immensely.

>>4796718
>>4796722
I meant that we should bury them deep in the ground, drop in the ocean, or throw off a cliff in secluded place. Something like that just so we don't have it around. Human psyche is weak as fuck and I don't want Herald to literally lose his soul over a fucking arm.
Alternatively get a storage space where nobody will be able to access them. Ask priest, maybe he can help us with that?
>>
>>4796717
It'd be funny if we could cheese it like that but I'm not sure if that's possible.

>>4796722
The best thing we can do about the behelits is keep them in our bag and collect as many as we can to keep them out of the hands of evildoers. My eventual goal is to see if we can break double-digits and cuck the God of Evil out of his soulless trinket-slaves.
>>
>>4796732
speaking of magic how does that work here? QM may have explained it in the past but I don't remember, my guess is that it's something you are born with so we may be cucked out of that, if not then yeah we should totally learn magic to compensate.
>>4796734
gotta catch em all!
>>
>>4796732
Bro these fuckers are fated. They're also metaphysical evil. If we ask a priest about a behelit, that's like asking a medieval priest if he can help you take care of a bloodsoaked pentagram you "found" in the woods where a virgin disappeared. Even if it's completely innocent, that's the kind of obscenity that gets you guilty by association, let alone if we ask a deity. These fuckers are dangerous, unimaginably dangerous, and Herald is the most dangerous fucker we know.
>I was also thinking we could attempt to learn some very basic magic (if possible). It doesn't require two hands or handling and would help Herald immensely.
ALSO FUCK THAT'S A BRILLIANT IDEA. WE NEED TO ASK JEANNE ABOUT THAT ASAP

>>4796727
Makes sense. That's probably the domain of the gods and whatnot.
>>
>>4796739
I wonder how hard it would be to make our own magic...
Imagine just channelling all of our anger and chad conquering power into an eye laser or some shit.
>>
>>4796743
Remember the flute-solo? I think Conquest points are Herald exerting his will over reality, through the lens of Conquest. If we learned even some basic magic our situation would be a lot better. Our INT is very low so we should be able to train it fairly fast, relative to our STR, and Jeanne is the type of person that would be happy to help.
>>
>>4796738
>>4796727
I would also like to have a reminder on how magiks work here.

>>4796739
Nah man, it doesn't seem so bad. And we literally want to find a place to store these indestructible evils safely, where nobody will touch them. It's the only way.
That's why I mentioned the priest - find a religious order, tell them all about that fagshitery and lock the shit away under supervision.
>>
>>4796748
Might not be a bad idea, but you remember the librarian? A centuries-old wizard, a stoic rock, flinched in terror and panicked when we mentioned it offhand. They're obscure for a reason. I wouldn't trust anyone but a high priest with one of these, and I'd hesitate to mention it with a god we didn't have a rapport with. I hope Castor is okay, wherever he is.
>>
>>4796746
I believe 8-9 was the maximum strength a human could go from what QM said and the lower the stat the faster it would rise, since our intelligence is low we should get to about 4-5 soon if we focus on it. I just really want to make our own magic since not only is it a big dick thing to do but enemies will be unprepared.
>>4796748
A good way to get some type of inquisition on our ass but it may work.
>>
>>4796746
If we pump that INT up, we might have easier time researching the hand.
It's all coming together desu.

>>4796752
I'm mainly coming off of the fact that we already have TWO of these obscure horrifying things.
>>4796761
So how bout we do some fishing and ask Aemis if the ocean could hide those things forever? Not beg him for help, but maybe he could show a place from where sea/ocean tides will take those things as far and as deep as possible, rendering them virtually inaccessible?
Fucking hell anons, we are about to go on a boat trip to Orclandia soon. Maybe we can kill two birds with one stone?
>>
>>4796738
>>4796748
Right, I've only mentioned scattered bits of lore for magic throughout the world- that's my bad. Let me give a quick rundown of what's been mentioned thus far.

Anyone can learn magic, but it can take months or even years to learn a single spell- and that's only after you have a grasp on magic to begin with. As such, unless your born as an Elf, which is a sapient race blessed with extraordinary magical prowess and mana reserves, it's not something you can really stumble into accidentally. It could be self-taught if you were a genius with access to many texts, but most people learn magic either by being taught by a mage or by going to the Academy in the capitol.

If you know 'Advanced Magical Theory' like Jeanne learned in Thread 1 or 2 I believe, you can learn spells in a matter of days. Usually in order to learn a spell though, you need a text book about it or a scroll you can look at to work from. For the sake of being open, this is reserved for 'geniuses' like Jeanne, and potentially you as a Main Character. You'd still need to learn the fundamental concepts with Jeanne and then get tutored through Advanced Magical Theory, which would take a solid amount of time, but it can happen within the span of the quest. This is basically a lore barrier so all except the most powerful of wizards in setting can't just rapidly gain a huge artillery of spells so that they aren't impossible to defeat.

To give you an idea, Jeanne was in the Academy for 3 or 4 years, and in all that time, even after graduating, she only learned Fireball, Lesser Heal, Light, and Firebolt. She gained Hold after a few days of study once she picked up Advanced Magic Theory. Basically, collect scrolls or have a resource like the library in Rathalon to acquire more neat spells for her, or yourselves once you learn it.


Scrolls let anyone use a spell without knowing it OR using a spell slot, but they burn up and disappear after one use.

Minor Spells can be used as often as you'd like, Major Spells require using a Major Spell Slot. You have an amount of Major Spell Slots equal to half of your INT rounded down. All Major Spell Slots refill after you go to sleep for the day.

As for the exact lore of magic, I think that will be most fun to save until Jeanne starts teaching you about it or you go to read about it- but those are the mechanics of it.

Also worth noting, is minor spells are significantly easier to learn than major spells. Hypothetically you could learn a minor spell within a month or two without Advanced Magical Theory if you did a really good job learning and practicing.
>>
>>4796780
>If we pump that INT up, we might have easier time researching the hand.
Ah shit that's right.
>I'm mainly coming off of the fact that we already have TWO of these obscure horrifying things.
That's what I'm talking about man. That's spooky as fuck for anyone that's remotely keyed into this shit man. Also we barely know Aemis and we're on good terms with him, yeah, but are we on, Yo, can you help us get rid of these behelits? terms? I don't know man and I don't want to risk our soul.

>>4796784
That makes sense. Makes a lot of sense. It sounds like something worth working toward but we'd be starting from nothing, like when we were a child that didn't know the sharp end of a sword from the handle. I think we should try, we owe it to ourselves, but we shouldn't push that on Jeanne. We don't want to limit her expansion of knowledge by demanding she teach us the basics.
>>
>>4796784
then it seems like it will probably be a long term investment, how hard would it be to create our own spell?

In any way, I suggest we also learn some one-handed sword techniques like our jumping spin slash (which we can't use anymore)
>>
>>4796796
I think it's probably akin to, if magic can be considered equivalent to mathematics and subvariants of magic to different mathematic forms, learning magic to the level we can cast is probably like learning calculus, and learning a new spell making a new mathematical proof. It's the sort of tricky that takes years to get down. But it is possible, in theory.
>>
>>4796805
Inventing a new spell, I mean, learning a new spell's likely an order of magnitude easier.
>>
>>4796796
Creating your own spell would require knowledge of Advanced Magical Theory, knowledge of what you want the spell to do, and then a significant amount of time- probably a few months in character- to do it. That's probably outside the scope of this quest unless you wanted to make a single spell you worked on throughout the duration until close to the end.

I could be talking out of my ass on that though. Depending on the scale of how things work, there may be timeskips in the future that could facilitate more creation of spells- but at the current pace we go day by day, it would take the majority of the quest's length methinks

There are also certain limits- like you wouldn't be able to make a resurrection spell most likely.
>>
>>4796809
>magic takes work, and big dick magic takes a lifetime to achieve
This quest gets more based every post you make
>>
>>4796796
>>4796805
With all that (>>4796784) in mind I think we should try to learn something very simple so we can use magic asap. Then we can think about more complex things, if we desire to study more magic.
But that is a matter to further discuss with Jeanne back in town before we set off on our trip. Maybe we can buy some books and use the free time to learn stuff in travel.

>>4796791
He's not helping just us, but everyone. That's the only reason why we even got him to cause a water shitstorm and kill hundreds of orcs before they reached the shore.
This time we just need the right info from him and the rest is on us.
>>
>>4796817
The exception to this is through the Gods, as you learned from Gnon granting people Conquest Magic.

Though this is extremely uncommon. Even if you're favored by Gods it's usually not a thing they hand out, since that's tossing around celestial power. I would not rely on this unless you become a God's champion or really, REALLY impress Gnon.
>>
>>4796805
>>4796808
>>4796809
in that case how about we just normally attack people and say that its a magic spell?
>>4796817
next thing you know we are going to be on thread 115 playing dad simulator as Herald.
>>4796822
I suggest we not push our new god right now. We can put the issue in the pocket for now.
>>
>>4796824
Gnon seems based, in the distant, impartial and indiscriminately focused on his domain to the exclusion of all else, way. Can I ask you a question? Did Castor have any other mortal champions?

>>4796828
What if we didn't go full-tilt learning magic, and just tried to learn a spell to enchant our sword so that it was wreathed in flames, like was mentioned in thread #2 by that elf?
>>
>>4796834
never suggested going full magic. We could just pay for an enchantment like that or just upgrade our sword but you know we could do something like that without magic. Maybe with some oil, we can create our flaming sword or possibly do it the 'How to train your dragon' 2 way with hiccups gas sword.
Or cover ourselves in oil and with Aemis help we can fly
>>4796824
Speaking of dragons, do they exist?
>>
>>4796828
>our new god
YOU CAN'T JUST ABANDON CASTOR
But yeah, I'm just throwing ideas out there.

>>4796834
Honestly let's just learn mage hand.
>>
>>4796834
Castor had no other champions- you were kind of his only worshipper.

Champion is a very big dick title- any given God can only have one living champion at a time, and most of them don't have champions right now. It takes a lot of trials and proving yourself worthy for the title, because as you all know power can easily corrupt, and if a mortal went around and started being a corrupt fuck and abusing Godly powers, it would not reflect well on the God sponsoring them, so it's usually seen as a sacred privilege given out rarely rather than something Gods need or want to have at all times.

Pick the right mortal who's been properly tested and shown they're worthy, and it can be a big reputation boost for the God, leading to them getting more worship etc. Gods are very transactional in this world- they want offerings and worship. While one might argue this makes them not inherently benevolent, it at least means they're predictable and reasonable- which most people agree is better than working mysteriously and with cryptic omens and signs.

As for enchantments, that's basically like buying pre-made magic. An enchanter puts a spell into the weapon for you and you can activate it at will without any training- though if it uses a Major Spell then it still drains your slots each time and uses your mana. For reference, think about the generic soldiers that grabbed those Fireball cannons and had their mana used to launch them at the Orc warships last thread.

Last round of answering questions for now, I think. Gonna leave this vote up a bit longer and then count them and update.
>>
>>4796838
never forget Castor. Maybe he became a mortal again? We gotta help him somehow.
>>
>>4796845
I say we don't "change" gods until it's clear what happened to him and we know what to do about the situation.
But mention him a lot so the spirit remains. We are gonna absolutely wreck all the goblins in our path and torch their filthy lairs.
>>
>wake up Clarissa and ask her to teach you how to skin the rabbit

She is a hunter type after all

>Herald, this is your subconscious speaking. You didn't come this far to only come this far,l. you are the herald of CONQUEST, not the herald of quitting when things get tough. If you overcome this, just as you have overcome so many problems in the past it will only strengthen your resolve. Just like lifting weights you have to increase the load to feel a benefit, if It don't challenge ya it won't change ya! Things have gotten harder because you have reached a higher level, now get out there and kick ass one handed like the bad motherfucker you are!
>>
>>4796676
>>4796711
+1 this.

And don't worry, Herald--all of the coolest warriors fight with one arm! Someday we'll be able to do the whole 'Heh, I only need one arm to beat you' thing!
>>
>>4796711
>>4796713
>>4796715
>>4796868
>>4796876
Wake up Barret, ask for help cooking, talk about arm worries, maybe do some training.

Roll me a 1d20+3 (+3 for WIS) for cooking the rabbit. You need at least a 10 to succeed since it's pretty simple. Taking the best of two rolls because Barret is helping.

>>4796837
There are old legends about dragons, but it's one of those things nobody has seen in hundreds of years and don't really believe in- but maybe could've been true?

There are wyverns- which are like little dragon-like creatures that are rumored to be descendants of the ancient and powerful dragons, but no proper dragons.

If the roll comes fast enough I'll try to crank out the update, but otherwise it'll come after recording.
>>
Rolled 15 + 3 (1d20 + 3)

>>4797004
>>
Rolled 18 + 3 (1d20 + 3)

>>4797004
Let's STEW it!
>>
How about a lucky rabbit's foot for each member of the party?
>>
>>4797263
now that sounds interesting.
>>
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You realize you’ll probably want someone’s help trying to cook something for the first time- and all the better if it’s someone you can also open up to a little. Jeanne and Clarissa are great and all, but you think Barret might empathize with your plight a little more. You open the flap of your tent and utter a ‘psst’ to get his attention.

”Huh, what?” he asks groggily, rubbing his eyes as he sits up in his cot. ”Oh, it’s you boss man. The others already up? What time is it?”

”Probably around six in the morning” you tell him, but quickly put your hand up after you see him start to lie down again. ”Wait! I need you, man. I mean uh, need some help cooking this rabbit I caught. I’ll share it?” you offer.

Your doofy-haired friend capitulates, still in his pajamas as he steps out of the tent with you, shielding his eyes from the sun. Come to think of it, you’re probably the only one amongst your peers who sleeps in their armor.

”I’m not much of a cook myself, but I could help you make a stew” he offers, pulling a small cauldron out from his bag of holding and propping it just above the stone circle your group set up for a fire last night. You help him get some kindling, as well as skin the rabbit and store the fur in your bag.

You and Barret both contribute a little from your waterskins to fill the pot, banking on there being a river or well in the near future where you can stock back up. You borrow a knife from your companion and follow his instructions as you carve off the meat and plop it into the cauldron while he lights the fire.

He pulls a wooden ladle out from his bag as well- damn, your companions came prepared- and hands it to you so you can stir. The process will supposedly take two hours, so it won’t be done until around the time Jeanne and Clarissa get up- which gives you a little time to chat with your pal.

”You know, I’m aware that my arm is missing. I’m not delusional. I just...don’t want to be treated like a total cripple, okay?” you start, taking a deep breath. ”I understand and appreciate you guys trying to help me out, but I’m just as capable and strong as ever! I just need a little time to get used to my new body. So, you can let me do things like help keep watch or participate in setting up the campsite, alright?”

(1/2)
>>
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Barret looks to the ground in embarrassment for a moment before facing you once more. ”I...I’m sorry, boss man. You’ve just helped us out a lot so we wanted to help you- but I can see that it’s just messing with your head. We don’t think you’re useless, honest! We’re just being...a little more careful than usual. I mean shit, you went and got in a fight without us and almost died! We’re scared, man” he explains.

”But you’re right- you’re still the same old Herald. I’ll try and convince the girls to ease off a bit and treat you the same as usual- they’re the ones who are really upset about your whole situation. Especially Clarissa- man you should’ve seen how freaked she was when we first heard about what happened to you” he says, grabbing the ladle from your hand and lazily stirring as he speaks.

You nod in response without saying another word. It seems your buddy here understands you, and to an extent you can see where he and the gals are coming from as well. Perhaps you’ll need to talk with Clarissa and Jeanne yourself at some point, but for now the two of you continue making the stew, only occasionally muttering a small quip or observation here and there.

After around two hours, the broth looks good and the meat is cooked enough for you to say it’s finished. Doing a little taste test, you’re surprised that it actually came out alright. Could use some spices, sure, and maybe a few vegetables, but it’s definitely serviceable!

*SKILL ACQUIRED! (Cooking: 1)*

Before you get the chance to ask Barret to train with you however, Jeanne and Clarissa emerge from their tent, the latter letting out a loud yawn as they approach the fire, fully dressed in their gear unlike poor Barret.

”Something smells good- you boys sharing?” Clarissa asks, rubbing her eyes. ”Wait, did you cook this Herald?”

You shrug. ”Barret helped me out. Come on, take a seat” you offer. Jeanne pulls out bowls and spoons for everyone as you serve breakfast and munch on your stew, happy to save everyone a ration.

Once breakfast is done, what will you do?

>Confront Jeanne and Clarissa about how you want to be treated
>Ask Barret to train with you a bit
>Get moving- you’ve got a quest to complete
>Other (write in)

(2/2)

Sorry for the delay, recording went a little long. Regardless of choice I’ll try to work in the rabbit paw idea next post too, I thought it was cute and clever
>>
>>4797369
>Ask Barret to train with you a bit
Pamp dat one-handed.

I think it's better if Barret tells them to chill out on his own. No need to turn this in a support group meeting.
>>
>cute and clever
That's me baby!

>Train with Barrett

Also, I have the sneaking suspicion Clarissa wants the D...
>>
>Clarissa wants the D
dude she's literally a rape victim
>>
>>4797369
>Ask Barret to train with you a bit

MORNING TRAINIIIIIING
>>
>>4797403
I would say consider the fact that she values you as a dear friend for comforting and spending time with her and helping with her issues rather than wanting to sex you.
>>
>>4797369
>>Ask Barret to train with you a bit
>>
Sorry guys, was gonna get one more out for 4 updates today but responsibilities and distractions kept me pretty busy, so I think I'll call it for the night here.

As a heads up, I got lots of schoolwork stuff tomorrow, so updates will be sparse or non-existent. Should be back on Monday regardless though, at least for a couple updates before a tabletop session.

As always, thanks for reading and playing A Herald's Journey!
>>
>>4797583
Based Herald QM, telling it like it is. Most based QM on this board imo.
>>
>>4797369
>Confront Jeanne and Clarissa about how you want to be treated
>>
>>4797583
No sweat, man--thanks for running and keeping us in the loop!
>>
>>4797583
Thank you for running, Herald QM!
>>
>>4797393
>>4797403
>>4797442
>>4797529
>>4797750
Ask Barret to train with you a bit

Writing! Forgive me if I'm slow, brain fried from getting crap done
>>
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You stay quiet for most of breakfast, only responding when spoken to and looking down at your bowl for the most part. Despite your exchange with Barret a moment ago, you still can’t help but feel embarrassed about your performance yesterday and the fact that the girls are treating you differently.

Once you’re finished, you nudge your doofy-haired companion on the arm before looking towards Clarissa and Jeanne. ”Barret and I are gonna get some early morning training done. You two know the drill- the same basics as always. There’s no way to do pull-ups, but focus on your aim” you tell them as you get up, Barret following suit.

”And what are we supposed to aim at?” Clarissa asks.

You answer with a shrug. ”Figure it out? We’ll be back in an hour.”

You walk off with Barret towards a clearing not too far away, but with the camp just out of sight. Your companion seems a little confused by this turn of events. ”You know I’m always down for training, boss man, but why did you take me so far away from camp?”

You wave your hand dismissively. As if you’re about to admit you’re worried about your disability affecting your performance after you just had a conversation with him about how you don’t need to be treated differently. ”Figured we could get a little fresh air” you lie, picking up a large stick and tossing it to Barret before grabbing another. They’re not exactly as efficient or shaped properly like training weapons, but using sticks is better than actually hacking each other to pieces.

Training in some ways both alleviates and increases the worries you have about your new handicap. On one hand, you find you’re still able to beat Barret, even when he gives it his all. On the other hand, you have to work extra hard to compensate for only having one arm. Even worse, the gap between the two of you is closing- you’re still better, but not by nearly as much. You’re not sure how much of that is a result of Barret’s own growth and how much is due to you losing an arm, but you can’t help assuming the latter.

(1/2)
>>
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Eventually you finish up your morning training and meet with the girls again back at the campsite. Based on how much they’re sweating, you can tell that they at least didn’t skimp out on training while you were away.

It doesn’t take much time for the four of you to pack up your things and get back on the road. Not long after you start moving, Jeanne approaches you. ”Hey Herald, I wanted to check in with you real quick. There’s a little hamlet only a few hours away from where this tomb is- Fulton, I think it’s called. Do you want us to stop there for supplies and whatnot, or should we just head straight to the tomb?”

You ponder the question for a moment. Are there any supplies you need in town? Alternatively, is there anything the villagers might know about where you’re going? It could be worth a visit, but it’d also likely add another day to your travels- and you’re still on somewhat of a time limit to escort Grug back to Krosh’tar.

>Head straight to the tomb
>Stop by Fulton first

(2/2)

Image is not literal, just a representation of making a choice here. There is not actually a paved road to the ancient, recently discovered tomb lol
>>
>>4798870
>>Stop by Fulton first
>>
>>4798870
>Stop by Fulton first

Knowledge is POWER
>>
>stop by Fulton

We may learn something that will save a lot of time further down the line
>>
>>4798870
>>Stop by Fulton first
>>
>>4798870
>Head straight to the tomb
>>
>>4798878
>>4798925
>>4798940
>>4798946
>>4798969
Stop by Fulton first

Writing! Going out soon, so if the post takes a while to come out, then it's because I didn't finish before I had to go
>>
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”Let’s stop by Fulton. Someone there might be able to tell us more about this tomb” you answer. Jeanne simply nods and steps back away towards Clarissa. Her approaching you, however, reminded you of something you meant to do before you packed up camp.

Reaching into your bag of holding, you produce one of the rabbit feet you sawed off of your prey’s body earlier. ”Hey Barret!” you call out, tossing the object to the fighter.

He catches it, looking confused for a moment before flashing you a grin. ”Ahh, so that’s why you cut those off earlier. Thanks, boss man!”

You repeat the action, tossing a foot to Clarissa and another to Jeanne as well, who both seem surprised by the gesture. ”They’re supposed to bring good luck, right?” the latter asks, looking skeptical. It seems she realizes what she’s doing however, and quickly forces out a smile instead. ”Err, I mean this should be helpful! Thanks Herald, really.”

Clarissa looks like she just had an idea, and reaches into her bag for something, fiddling with the paw. You look away from your companions, staring at the scenery to your side. ”No big deal, just thought we could all do with a little more luck.”

An indeterminate amount of time passes, your friends muttering and chatting about something or other as you get lost in thought. Your thinking, however, is interrupted by Clarissa approaching you. ”Hey, give me your foot” she asks. This causes you to raise an eyebrow before she elaborates. ”I mean your rabbit’s foot! Rabbits have four feet, and you gave each of us one, so you’ve got one for yourself, right?” she asks.

You notice that she has the foot you gave her tied around her neck like an amulet, clinking against her bronze dog tag. A cursory glance shows that Barret and Jeanne are the same. Giving her a smile unfortunately hidden by your helmet, you reach into your bag and produce the one you kept for yourself. ”Thanks, I appreciate it.”

She takes the needle and thread in her hand and begins looping it through the foot carefully to create a necklace, not lifting her eyes from the project as she speaks. ”I’m glad you’re okay, by the way. I know things have been pretty hectic lately, but I just wanted you to know that” she says, finishing up her little project before placing it around your neck. ”Keep that close so you don’t go losing any more limbs, alright?”

You chuckle. ”Sure thing.”

(1/2)
>>
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Thanks to Clarissa’s intervention, you feel a bit better and decide to join in the small talk with your companions as you travel over the next few hours, talking about whatever comes to mind. Jeanne and Barret tell you about the capitol- the enormous city at the center of the country where the king lives. Apparently it’s a giant metropolis separated into different districts. Jeanne lived close to the center with her father, where the nobles and wealthiest merchants have their manors just outside the castle. Barret, on the other hand, lived on the outer edges just inside the walls, where the farmers and the poorer townsfolk found themselves. Apparently, she used to sneak out to meet him at a little fountain halfway between their homes- cute.

You also learn that, unlike Jeanne who has five older siblings, Barret’s actually an only child. He tells you how he almost didn’t become an adventurer because he was worried about taking care of his family, but his parents insisted he pursue his dreams and head out with Jeanne.

Clarissa is understandably tight-lipped about her past- probably not wanting to dredge up bad memories. She does mention that her father was a lumberjack and her mother a tailor. You also learn that she’s actually from a small village in the eastern region and came down to the southern region since it was supposed to be a ‘safer area’ for adventurers. She figured it’d be a good place to climb the ranks a little before heading back home.

You, however, don’t say a word about your past. You’ve managed to distract yourself and get in a good mood again- no need to risk letting too many emotions out and shutting down or having a meltdown in front of your pals. Any attempts your friends make at learning more about you are skillfully deflected. Jeanne and Barret don’t seem to mind or notice, but Clarissa definitely catches on to what you’re doing- though she doesn’t say anything.

After a few hours you see some buildings start to pop into view- a small hamlet surrounded by a wooden palisade. A ‘guard’ in plainclothes with a shoddy looking spear holds a hand out to stop your group before you come in however, coughing into the cloth wrapped around his mouth.

”Halt!” he calls out in a raspy voice. ”A plague has befallen our little town. I’m sorry, but you should leave. I won’t stop you, but it’s gotten many of our own bedridden. Please, for your own safety” he states. Oh shit, you’ve got a blessing that’ll take care of this!

...a shame it doesn’t apply to your pals.

>Head in alone. They can set up camp outside the walls.
>You’ll all go in. You’re sure they’ll be fine!
>Probably best to give up and all stay outside for the night
>Talk to someone (Who? About what?)
>Other (write in)

(2/2)
>>
>>4799190
>Head in alone. They can set up camp outside the walls.
>>
>>4799190
>>Head in alone. They can set up camp outside the walls.
>Ask if they want anything while we look around.
>>
>>4799329
+1
>>
>>4799313
>>4799329
>>4799338
Head in alone. Ask if they want anything

Writing! Probably the last update for the night
>>
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”You don’t need to be concerned about me” you inform the man, ”for I carry the blessing of Aemis, God of the Sea and Storms. My body is hardened against all forms of disease” you say proudly, before awkwardly turning around to face your companions. ”You three on the other hand...I’m sorry, but you’ll have to camp outside the walls.”

Clarissa scoffs. ”Yeah, as if we’re letting you out of our sights again. No, we’ll all go in together” she insists, but Jeanne puts a hand on her shoulder.

”We can’t afford to get sick before our rescue mission. If Herald can go in without any trouble, then he should try and get some information or supplies for us” Jeanne chimes in.

Clarissa does not look happy about this situation, but eventually gives in, turning away from you. Barret offers a thumbs up. ”I’ll start getting the camp ready, boss man. Good luck!”

You head through the entrance and into the humble hamlet proper. It really is a rather small village- a few rows of houses scattered throughout the area, with a large stone circle for bonfires and a well to fetch water in the center of town. The village feels mostly empty, likely due to the majority of its residents at work in the quarry or in bed resting up from their illness. You see an occasional person leaning against a building, coughing up a storm or vomiting, but by and large you’re basically alone out here.

Aside from the quarry, the only other places of note are a humble looking inn, a small chapel, and a dinky looking general store. You also notice a stone building that seems to have recently had a sign torn off the top- perhaps the place the apothecary you met in the merchant square used to work?

>Head to the quarry. There’s bound to be people working there that could help you out.
>Inns are always a good source of information- and it’ll help to get where you’re sleeping tonight figured out.
>The Gods have been pretty helpful thus far. Maybe you can talk to the priest inside or beseech a God?
>Stop by the general store. You might need to pick up some supplies (Looking for anything in particular or just browsing around?)
>Other (write in)
>>
>>4799439
>>Stop by the general store. You might need to pick up some supplies (Looking for anything in particular or just browsing around?)
Sell that fucking wolf leather, and Top off our rations to 10.
>>
>>4799439
>Stop by the general store. You might need to pick up some supplies (Looking for anything in particular or just browsing around?)

Maybe some camping supplies for our poor pals outside? Also we can probably get a feel for the situation by talking to the General Store owner...
>>
>>4799487
+1

Can quiz the shopkeeper then head to the inn afterwards if he can't give us much info.

It may be appreciated by our team if, once we are done, we go camp outside with them. Solidarity goes a long way
>>
>>4799490
>>4800138
But what if we unluckily carry the plague outside straight to them on our person? Herald should still keep his distance from others as much as possible
>>
>>4799439
>Stop by the general store. You might need to pick up some supplies (Looking for anything in particular or just browsing around?)
Sell wolf leathers
Rations to 10
Camping supplies
Talk to shopkeep for rundown on situation here plus the tomb stuff, since the tomb raider guy must have stopped by here for supplies beforehand and shopkeep should remember him since it was recent
>>
>>4799487
>>4799490
>>4800138
>>4800504
>>4800505
Stop by store, sell wolf leathers, get rations to 10, ask for some info.

Writing!
>>
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You enter the dinky general store, a much more humble place than Rathalon’s or even Talmuth’s. It seems to be manned by a human woman with a cloth tied around her face like the man outside. ”Hel-” she stops midway through her greeting to cough. ”Hello. Is there anything I can help you with?”

Her voice sounds weak and she doesn’t look too good, but at least she isn’t as far gone as the people vomiting their guts out. ”Yes actually. First and foremost, I was hoping to sell these and purchase six rations” you say, pulling out the wolf leathers one by one onto the counter.

She leans over and takes a look at them for a moment before returning her attention to you. ”I can give you seven gold a piece for them. The rations are one gold each, so you can just give me sixty four gold and we’ll call it square?” she asks.

>Yes, this is satisfactory
>Actually, nevermind

Regardless of your purchasing decision, you decide to try and get a little info from her. ”Have you heard anything about an explorer that came through here? I’m actually on a rescue mission to grab them from the tomb that was discovered a few hours travel from here. I was wondering if you’d heard anything about this tomb, or if you know anything about the man I’m looking for” you ask.

”Ah, I think I remember them coming through here around a week or so ago- maybe a little longer than that” she says, stopping to cough again, ”before this damn plague came about. He needed some rations and camping equipment I think. He was really excited about checking it out, but he was a rather small, skinny man- the kind that you’d think would blow away with a strong enough wind. All dressed up in those fancy clothes with that funny hat” she recalls.

”Did he tell you anything about the tomb?” you ask.

She puts a hand to her chin in thought. ”He mentioned something about it belonging to some old wizard I think. Told me that there could be ancient artifacts or pieces of knowledge about magic from the old world. He did say he was a little worried about traps though- so I convinced him to buy a ten foot pole” she chuckles.

Sounds like you should keep an eye out, just to be safe. Unlike stupid goblins, you have a feeling an intelligent wizard might be a little more competent with their security.

>”Thanks for the help, I sincerely appreciate it” (Leave. Where do you go?)
>”What wares would you recommend?”
>”Do you have…” (Specify)
>Other (write in)
>>
>>4800718
Yes, give me 64 gold pieces and the 6 rations for the wolf leathers.

>”What wares would you recommend?”
A list of what you sell would be helpful.
>>
>>4800718
>Actually, nevermind
I still want those cloaks, man!
Don't sabotage the dreams like that :c
>”What wares do you offer?”
>"What's up with that building with torn-off sign?"

>>4799190
(Jeanne) came down to the southern region since it was supposed to be a ‘safer area’ for adventurers. She figured it’d be a good place to climb the ranks a little before heading back home.
Damn, this hurt to read. We must kill more of those green-skinned, braindead monsters.
>>
>>4800718
Am I confused or is the shopkeeper? Why would we give her wolf skins AND sixty four gold for some rations?

Is her illness effecting her mind? ...or was it a typo?
>>
>>4800833
No, Clarissa came down to the southern region- Jeanne is from the capitol which is sort of like washington DC(?). It's technically in the bottom part of the Northern Region, but it's kind of treated as its own area and has a little bit of space at the tip of each region.

>>4800865
Yes that was a typo shit, sorry- she would give you sixty-four gold pieces, not the other way around lol.

I'll leave the vote up a bit longer since I flubbed up so you guys have time to decide.
>>
>>4800875
Ah shit. I know, just got their names mixed-up. I just meant the fact that Clarissa got to southern region to have a safe start then return home and we all know how it ended for her because of those green midget fucks. That backstory genuinely caught me off-guard.
>>
>>4800718
>Actually nevermind
Just buy the rations and keep the wolf skins

>”What wares would you recommend?”
>>
>>4800718
>>”What wares would you recommend?”
>>
>>4800812
>>4800833
>>4801006
>>4801007
Nevermind on the purchase, just get the rations. Show me what you got tho

Writing!
>>
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You decide to hold off on selling the wolf leathers for now, but still end up buying the extra rations. It never hurts to be prepared!

*Gold: 161*

”By the way, what wares would you recommend? I’m curious to see what you sell” you ask. After all, Jeanne did say it would be good for you to grab some supplies for the group.

The woman thinks it over for a moment. ”These are what travellers typically purchase, though if there’s anything else you’re looking for, I might have it in the back…”

Fulton General Store prices:
Rations (1 days worth) - 1gp a pop
Crowbar - 2gp
Tinderbox - 1gp
Pack of chalk - 1gp
Lantern - 20gp (requires flask of oil, each flask keeps it lit for 1 hour)
Flask of oil - 1gp a pop
Ten foot pole - 5gp
Climbing Kit - 25gp
Rope (50 ft. hempen) - 5gp
Tent for two - 10gp
Sleeping roll - 2gp
Fishing rod - 2gp
Bait x10 - 1gp

>Make purchases (What?)
>Haggle (On what? For what prices?)
>”Do you have…” (Specify)
>”Actually, I’m alright” (Leave. To Where?)
>Other (write in)

Inventory can be found here: https://pastebin.com/d4Z5Dbm7
>>
>>4801020
Pack of chalk - 1gp
Climbing Kit - 25gp
Fishing rod - 2gp
Bait x10 - 1gp

>Haggle (On what? For what prices?)
Climbing Kit
Half-off

"I have one-good arm. Do you think I could get this HALF off?
>>
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>>4801020
>”Do you have…” (Specify)
Any books or documents that would help us design/build/enchant a prosthetic arm

You forced my hand, HQM.
>>
>>4801036
+1 but also buy a crowbar, we may need one if we have to release this guy from a trap
>>
>>4801061
Gee Jimmy, TWO crowbars?
>>
>>4801064
>>4801061
Though we might actually need four, depending on where and if he's stuck.
>>
>>4801036
>>4801040
>>4801061
>>4801064
Alright, roll me 1d20+8 (+6 for CHA, +2 for Haggling) to get the climbing kit down to 12 gold. DC is 17. Also, respond real quick if you want to purchase a second crowbar or not since I wasn't too sure.

>Y
>N

I'll check back in 20 minutes!

I'll also throw in the question about the book
>>
Rolled 14 + 8 (1d20 + 8)

>>4801197
Y
>>
Rolled 14 + 6 (1d20 + 6)

>>4801197
>Y
>>
>>4801197
>N
Sorry I forgot we had one! Then again, don't want to run out of crowbars...
>>
>>4801216
whew im retarded
>>
>>4801207
>>4801216
>>4801218
Y

Writing!
>>
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”Let’s see...I’ll take a fishing rod, some bait, a crowbar, a pack of chalk, and a climbing kit. Oh, and I’d like half off on the climbing kit, too” you tell the shopkeep.

”Half-off?” she asks, ”And why should I give you that?”

”Come on, I’ve only got one good arm. Shouldn’t it be HALF off, considering that?” you ask with a smug grin.

There’s a pause for a moment before you hear a quiet chuckle come from the lady that soon turns into a coughing fit. ”Alright, alright. For your good sense of humor, I’ll play along. That’ll be seventeen gold” she says, holding out her hand.

*Success*

You reach into your pouch and produce the payment, dropping it into her open palm as you stick the items in your bag of holding.

*Gold: 144*

With your provisions purchased, you say a curt ‘goodbye’ to the shopkeep before heading back outside. The sun has already set and it’s getting pretty late, but you could still do a little exploring or stay at the inn for the night if you wanted. On the other hand, you could also join your friends at their campsite outside too.

>Head to the inn
>Check out the quarry
>Visit the chapel
>Go see your buddies
>Other (write in)
>>
>>4801273
>Check out the quarry
>use our Goblin Sense
>Remember
>Feel sad
>>
>>4801273
What about the book...
>>
>>4801367
Shit I'm really sorry, been all over the place today. Give me a second and I'll redo the post.
>>
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”Let’s see...I’ll take a fishing rod, some bait, a crowbar, a pack of chalk, and a climbing kit. Oh, and I’d like half off on the climbing kit, too” you tell the shopkeep.

”Half-off?” she asks, ”And why should I give you that?”

”Come on, I’ve only got one good arm. Shouldn’t it be HALF off, considering that?” you ask with a smug grin.

There’s a pause for a moment before you hear a quiet chuckle come from the lady that soon turns into a coughing fit. ”Alright, alright. For your good sense of humor, I’ll play along. That’ll be seventeen gold” she says, holding out her hand.

*Success*

You reach into your pouch and produce the payment, dropping it into her open palm as you stick the items in your bag of holding.

*Gold: 144*

”By the way, while I’ve got you here...would you happen to have any books or texts about prosthetics? Or even anything about anatomy for that matter?”

The shopkeep looks confused by your question. ”Prosthetics…? No, I don’t think anyone here knows much about that. If you’re interested in anatomy though, the innkeeper might be able to help you. I think his daughter was thinking about becoming a doctor- Gods know we could use one. They might have a book you could borrow on anatomy” she explains.

You nod your head. ”I see, thanks for the help.”

With your provisions purchased, you say a curt ‘goodbye’ to the shopkeep before heading back outside. The sun has already set and it’s getting pretty late, but you could still do a little exploring or stay at the inn for the night if you wanted. It might not hurt to meet a future doctor- assuming that she, you know, survives this whole ‘plague’ ordeal. On the other hand, you could also join your friends at their campsite outside too.

>Head to the inn
>Check out the quarry
>Visit the chapel
>Go see your buddies
>Other (write in)

Redo of last post. Apologies!
>>
>>4801389
>>Head to the inn
>>
>>4801389
>Go see your buddies
>Give crowbar #1 to Barret
>Give crowbar #2 to Clarissa
We can't use those things properly in our current state (imagine using crowbar with just one hand), this way we can actually benefit from our... investments.

We can see the innkeep's daughter tomorrow morning, it's late and sleeping at inn is a big cunt move to our team. And hella inconsiderate since they don't expect us to stay here for the night and have no way to check what's going on.
>>
>>4801389
>Check out the quarry
>use our Goblin Sense
>Remember
>Feel sad
>>
Sorry lads, only just now finished my tabletop today and I'm wiped, so I think I'll call it here. Apologies we didn't make too much progress.

I'll check back in after work tomorrow, and if the tie isn't broken then I'll roll on it. As always, thanks for reading and playing A Herald's Journey!
>>
>>4801419
Support
>>
>>4801404
+1 I want to see what the innkeepers daughter has to say about our arm situation
>>
Rolled 1 (1d2)

>>4801404
>>4801419
>>4801496
>>4802073
>>4802422
1: Go to the inn
2: Back to your friends + distribute crowbars

Will get to writing results soon!

Good news bad news. Good news, I'm not at work so I can get an update out now and maybe a bit more throughout the day. Bad news is I'm not at work because I've got some stomach issues and feel pretty sick so I called in, so depending on how that goes throughout the day there may not be many updates or it may take longer to get them out etc.
>>
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Although you grabbed some provisions and learned a little about the explorer that you’re trying to rescue, you still could do with some more information. Besides, if what the shopkeep said is true, you may even be able to start reading up on how to go about this whole ‘super prosthetic’ thing. First and foremost, you’ll at least need a firm grasp on anatomy to figure out how to design the thing to work somewhat like an actual arm. After that, you’ll just need to get a basic understanding of how the enchantments may need to be designed and what materials would work well for building the thing, and you could get a machinist and enchanter to do the rest of the heavy lifting.

You decide to enter into the little stone building on the far side of town, with a decently painted sign reading ‘Halwark Inn’ at the top- probably the fanciest thing in this whole hamlet. Upon entering however, you are met with a surprising amount of silence for this time of night. Well, perhaps not necessarily surprising- there is a plague going on right now and this is a small village without an Adventurer’s Guild hall.

There are only two other patrons hanging around. One wearing a cloak and spinning a knife around in their fingers, leaning against the wall in the corner, and another seemingly passed out drunk at one of the tables, still lazily holding a pint.

Behind the counter is a plump, human man that looks to be around forty or so, who offers a friendly wave as you enter. ”Welcome to my inn, traveller! I’d say you should wear one of these dressings for your safety, but it seems your helmet should do a good job of protecting you” he says, pointing to the cloth around his face. For what it’s worth, he seems to be one of the only people in the village who aren’t sick yet.

”Thanks” you respond, taking a look around and thinking about what you want to do first.

>Order a drink(s) (1gp per. How many?)
>Get a room for the night (5gp)
>Ask the innkeeper if you can speak with his daughter
>See what someone knows about this explorer (Who?)
>Figure out what the cloaked figure’s deal is
>Try and wake up the passed out guy
>Other (write in)
>>
>>4801419
>sleeping at inn is a big cunt move to our team. And hella inconsiderate since they don't expect us to stay here for the night and have no way to check what's going on.
This right here, guys
>>
>>4802987
>Order a drink
Let's give the man some business during the plague. Just make sure the cup is clean (ik we're immune, but still).
>Ask the innkeeper if you can speak with his daughter
If we can talk to her just ask whether she can give us any tips (on what books/texts to read, etc.) and if she could sell any book/s to us.

After that let's really return and distribute.
>>
>>4802987
>Order a drink
>Ask to speak to the innkeepers daughter

I'm intrigued by the knife guy in the corner. We should definitely make sure we speak to him before we go, seems like a badass
>>
>>4802987
>Order a drink and ask the innkeeper if he knows anything about the explorer
We could give him a gp if the info is good to help his business then behave as if you suddenly remembered something and proceed to
>Ask the innkeeper if you can talk with his daughter about your recent one armed condition
>>
>>4803323
Also make sure you return to your buddies fast after this
>>
>>4802987
>>Order a drink(s) (1gp per. How many?)
1
>Ask the innkeeper if you can speak with his daughter
>>
>>4803064
>>4803095
>>4803123
>>4803323
>>4803326
>>4803430
Order a drink, inquire about the explorer, ask to see his daughter

Writing!
>>
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”Actually, I’ll have a pint” you say, continuing towards the innkeep and taking a seat at the bar. He nods and grabs a glass, pouring you a beer from the tap before sliding it over. You nod in kind, taking a gold coin out of your pouch and flicking it into his hands.

You give yourself a moment to take a swig from your drink first before asking your question. ”So, this explorer guy that came around here- you know anything about him?” you ask, setting the glass back down on the counter.

”Ah, that scrawny little guy? He was going on and on about magic and cultural artifacts or something- I mostly just smiled and nodded” he admits. ”Why do you ask? Friend of his?”

You shake your head, grabbing your dog tag and holding it up. ”Rescuer, actually. He should've been back in Rathalon days ago” you explain.

”Oh...well I hope he’s alright! If there’s anything else I can do to help, please let me know.”

”Well… could I speak to your daughter?”

The innkeep seems confused by your question. ”Wait, what?”

”Your daughter. The woman who runs the general store said she’s a doctor- I was hoping to ask her about something.”

The man exhales loudly. ”No, she can’t fix whatever’s going around. She’s been doing her best to prevent people from getting sick- had us all start wearing these” he says, pointing to the cloth around his face, ”but if you’re already sick then she can’t help you, I’m afraid.”

You shake your head. ”No no, I’m all good on that- blessed by Aemis and whatnot.” you casually mention, which causes the man’s jaw to drop for a moment. ”I’m actually more concerned about this” you say, gesturing to your missing arm.

The older gentleman raises an eyebrow. ”I’m sorry, but I don’t think she can fix that…” he says, looking at you with eyes full of pity. God, just seeing that expression makes you want to throw your glass against the wall, but you swallow your frustrations and persist regardless.

”I’m aware of that- I’m actually working on a prosthetic. I was hoping to see if she had any advice or medical texts that could help me out” you explain.

His eyes light up in recognition. ”Ahh, now that, she might be able to help with. Give me a moment, I’ll go upstairs and give her a rundown on your situation” he says, excusing himself from the bar before heading up the stairs towards the back. Normally you’d be surprised to see this, but considering how empty this place is...it’s probably not a big deal.

The figure in the corner’s gaze drifts towards the bar with greed in their eyes for a moment, but they eventually shake their head, muttering something to themselves you can’t hear before going back to fiddling with their knife.

(1/2)
>>
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Eventually the man comes lumbering down the stairs with a girl a little bit younger than you in tow- probably eighteen or nineteen. She seems to be carrying a leather bound tome under her arm as she moves to a spot across from you.

”So I heard you’re interested in some medical texts? Based on what father told me, I assume you’re looking for something about anatomy, right?” she asks, getting straight to the point.

”Yeah, that’s right” you answer, plain and simple.

She places the book on the counter, the title reading ‘Upper Limb Anatomy’. ”I know the contents of this enough that I don’t mind parting with it, but it’s going to cost you I’m afraid” she explains. ”These texts are expensive, and the inn’s having some trouble with the plague going around. It’s a hundred gold if you really want it.”

You nearly spit out the drink you’d been taking while she spoke, barely containing the liquid as you set the glass down and cover your mouth. ”A hundred gold?!” you ask in a bewildered tone. Sure you technically have the money for it, but that seems pretty fucking expensive for a book! ”Alright, how about ninety-”

”No” she answers. ”Sorry to be rude, but I’m not willing to haggle.”

You let out a sigh. ”Is there really no other arrangement that we could make?”

She thinks on the question, but only for a moment. ”Father said you’re heading up to the ruins to go find that explorer, right? I remember him saying something about ancient artifacts or magical things. Those can sell for a fortune. If you bring me back one of those, I’ll trade you the book free of charge” she says.

Well, that would save you some time and money, and it would probably take some time to find a buyer for a weird artifact or magic item anyways, assuming you couldn’t make use of it. Still, cost wise you’re not sure how effective this deal is- at least not until you see one of these supposed artifacts firsthand.

>”Alright, I’ll pay up” (100gp)
>”You’ve got yourself a deal” (Agree to the artifact trade)
>”Sorry, but this is too rich for my blood” (No deal)
>Other (write in)

(2/2)
>>
>>4803628
>”Alright, I’ll pay up” (100gp)
>Other (write in)
Go talk with the passed out guy.
>>
>alright I'll pay up

100 gold is a lot but it is just a number, the book however is important to having two arms again!

Also we are taking a detour from our tomb mission, which is a detour from our "don't go to war with the orcs" mission... I think if we have to come via here on the way back too it will be costing us waaaay too much time.

Plus if we find an artifact I'm sure we can put it to good use, maybe even with our prosthetic, if not we can think about selling it
>>
>>4803628
>”Alright, I’ll pay up” (100gp)
She said artifacts could be worth a fortune, so it's worth to pay up now and keep potential treasure to ourselves. Besides, we might have trouble finding anatomy books for better price based on what she said.
>Go see your buddies
>Give crowbar #1 to Barret
>Give crowbar #2 to Clarissa
>>
>>4803628
>>”Alright, I’ll pay up” (100gp)
>Go see Buddies
>>
>>4803742
+1
>>
>>4803729
>>4803736
>>4803742
>>4804125
>>4804300
Buy the book, see your friends, distribute crowbars.

Writing! Sorry for the wait, been sick + ended up trying out my new tablet for a bit
>>
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You sigh. It’s clear your silver tongue isn’t going to work here, and you don’t want to fork over potentially valuable artifacts or magic items, or waste more time coming back here to even MAKE said trade. ”Alright, I’ll pay up” you capitulate.

A satisfied smile adorning her face, you hand the innkeeper’s daughter a hundred gold pieces, which takes a little time to sort with only one arm. In return, she gently pushes the book over to you along the counter. ”Pleasure doing business with you. I mean it, this’ll be a huge help for my father and I” she says, letting up her previously stern tone and expression. It seems like she really was just trying to get the best deal for her family rather than be a ruthless business woman, which you can respect.

*Gold: 43*

Unfortunately, it’s starting to get pretty late, and you’d feel like a HUGE dick if you just left your teammates to camp outside while you stayed in a warm, comfy bed. Making your way back outside the city’s wooden walls, you see a campfire not too far away and make haste towards it.

Sure enough, Jeanne, Barret, and Clarissa are sitting around the fire, their tents already set up. They seem pleasantly surprised to see you, almost as if they didn’t expect you to return. ”You’re sleeping with us tonight then?” Jeanne asks. ”I thought you would’ve stayed somewhere in Fulton. The sleeping rolls aren’t comfortable, you know” she teases.

You chuckle. ”And leave you guys out here? Nah, we’re a team- we’ll rough it together” you answer, prompting smiles all around.

You pull out a crowbar as well, handing it to Barret before taking the other one out and giving it to Clarissa. ”I won’t really be able to use these in my current condition, and we might need them in the tomb” you explain.

They both nod in understanding, the latter scooting up next to your seat. ”So, what was it like in there?” Clarissa asks.

You spend a little bit of time recounting the sights you saw, how sick people were, the store owner, and the innkeep and his daughter.

”Damn...sounds like they’ve got it rough. You’re sure you won’t get sick, boss man?” Barret asks.

You shake your head. ”I already told you, Aemis’ blessing is protecting me. I promise I’m fine” you assure him.

”Well if you don’t need anything else in town then, are we heading straight to the tomb in the morning?” Jeanne asks.

>”Yes, we’ll set out straight away”
>”Nope, we’re going to TRAIN first. Nice try”
>”Actually, I need to go back inside tomorrow morning to see something…” (What?)
>Other (write in)

Also, do you talk to anyone before you go to bed?

>Yes (Who? About anything in particular?)
>No
>>
>>4804470
>TRAIN
but do it lightly, we need to warm up our bodies
>No
We train our one handed flute skills before going to bed, we need our one arm to be faster and dexterous enough to compensate
>>
>>4804470
>>”Nope, we’re going to TRAIN first. Nice try”
Lightly

>No
Practice flute
>>
>>4804470
>>4804504
+1 this--TRAIN LIGHTLY AND PRACTICE FLUTE. They can't take MUSIC away from us, DAMN IT
>>
>>4804470
>”Nope, we’re going to TRAIN first. Nice try”
one-handed pushups hNGH
>No
Read the book instead.
>>
>>4804729
+1

,Speaking of the book, I suggest we hide it (actually, all of our valuables) well tonight before we sleep. The knife guy in the inn seemed like a thieving bastard judging by his reaction to the bar being left unattended, wouldn't be surprised if he came by our camp tonight
>>
>>4805062
backing this too, warn the others as well
>>
>>4805062
Good catch, definitely do that as well
>>
Rolled 1 (1d2)

>>4804504
>>4804505
>>4804529
>>4804729
>>4805062
>>4805167
Alright let me explain a few things. Unlike a usual library book, this book can be read REPEATEDLY to work on research. However, reading must last for at least 2 hours at a time, you just roll study straight (no bonuses or penalties), and you can only do so once a day. That's just to prevent you from spamming additional rolls and finishing instantly. This rule applies to any reading, library or purchased book, regarding researching your new prosthetic.

The result of your roll is then added to a total. When that total is completed or exceeded, you have successfully researched that part of your arm.

You need to research:
Upper Limb Anatomy: 0/50
Enchanting Specifics: 0/30
Prosthetic Materials: 0/30

That being said, you guys are at a TIE VOTE right now, so I'll be rolling to see what you get. If it's research, roll me 1d20+5 (+3 for INT, +2 for Study)

IF it lands on flute practice, roll me 1d20+2 (+3 for INT, +4 for Flute, -5 for One-armed)

1: Study book
2: Flute practice

I will also be doing something so I'll check back on the dice rolls in ~30ish minutes.
>>
Rolled 15 + 5 (1d20 + 5)

>>4805295
Let's conquer anatomy!
>>
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”Nope, we’re going to train first. Nice try” you answer with a smug grin, causing your mage friend to let out an exhausted sigh. ”We’ll keep it light though. Just a warm-up before the big mission” you say, patting her on the shoulder.

”Fine, fair enough” she responds, deciding to take whatever victory she can get on the matter before returning her attention to Barret.

While everyone’s winding down for the night and getting ready for bed, you take out the anatomy book you picked up while Clarissa takes first watch, poring through the tome. You’re surprised by the amount of information, even down to the diagrams of arms and how they work. You end up getting sucked into the little details, taking your time to understand the more complex explanations while referring back to the diagrams.

For what it’s worth, the two hours you spend are incredibly productive. You still have a ways to go before you have a solid enough grasp on how an arm works to start designing your prosthetic, but you definitely learned a lot and can feel the idea starting to come together!

Upper Limb Anatomy: (20/50)

(1/2)
>>
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Before you head back to bed, Clarissa calls out to you. That’s right- this was her watch. You voluntarily decided to let the others handle watches today since you’d need the time to parse through your book, but she has been out here this whole time.

”Is it interesting?” she asks.

”Uhh...yeah. Informative, anyways. I feel like this is definitely the right place to start for getting this prosthetic designed.”

She nods her head. ”Cool, cool.” There’s an awkward silence that lingers between the two of you. You get the feeling she wants to keep you here and ask about something, but keeps hesitating.

”Well, I’m headed off to bed then. Good ni-”

”W-wait!” she says, stopping you as you start to get up. You sigh and take a seat once more. ”Sorry, I just...I noticed earlier today you seemed like you didn’t want to talk about your past. Look, I totally get it if you don’t want to share- trust me, I’ve got memories I’d rather not relive…” she says, trailing off for a moment before continuing, ”but you said you’d help me whenever I needed it, and I’d like to do the same for you. If you want to talk, I’m here. I can even keep it secret from the others, if you want” she says.

The offer is kind, but do you really want to make yourself emotionally vulnerable? Sure Clarissa is your friend, as are Jeanne and Barret, but opening up isn’t...easy. Aside from being something you don’t have much experience with, it creates potential weakness. Are you really willing to let those walls come down and invite someone in?

>Open up fully. You can trust Clarissa. It’s worth showing vulnerability…probably
>The bare minimum. Your village was destroyed, your parents are dead, now you spread Conquest. She doesn’t need to know about Silas, the little details, or how it made you feel.
>Lie. You’ve practiced it enough already- “I’m from a little hamlet you’ve probably never heard of, there’s nothing there of note…”
>Silence. You just can’t tell her what happened, but you also can’t bear to lie. Just go to bed.
>Other (Write in)

(2/2)
>>
>>4805370
>The bare minimum. Your village was destroyed, your parents are dead, now you spread Conquest. She doesn’t need to know about Silas, the little details, or how it made you feel.

I wonder if we can use our knowledge to better exercise the arm? Like, to train all the muscles evenly, choose optimal positions and whatnot.

Thanks for letting us make the prosthetic come true, HQM!
>>
>>4805370
>>The bare minimum. Your village was destroyed, your parents are dead, now you spread Conquest. She doesn’t need to know about Silas, the little details, or how it made you feel.
>>
>>4805370
>The bare minimum. Your village was destroyed, your parents are dead, now you spread Conquest. She doesn’t need to know about Silas, the little details, or how it made you feel.
Showing vulnerability to w*men only means that it will be used against you. They lose attraction and respect for you so fast it's unbelievable. Any non-incel man will know this. The only emotions you can show to a w*man are stoicism, anger and lust (for her). Keep a trusted bro for dealing with emotions, but even that may not be enough. Such is the way of men.
>>
>>4805370
>The bare minimum. Your village was destroyed, your parents are dead, now you spread Conquest. She doesn’t need to know about Silas, the little details, or how it made you feel.
Let's do >>4805062 afterward
>>
>bare minimum

Let's see how she does with keeping a secret and what she does with the information before we risk telling any more
>>
>>4805575
This and we directly ask her to don't tell anyone else our past, if it needs to be known we want to speak about it ourselves
>>
>>4805370
>The bare minimum. Your village was destroyed, your parents are dead, now you spread Conquest. She doesn’t need to know about Silas, the little details, or how it made you feel.
>>
>>4805423
>>4805427
>>4805449
>>4805575
>>4805954
>>4805994
The bare minimum + test her trust

Writing!
>>
>>4806020
What about the >>4805062 write in? Let's stay safe.
>>
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You take a deep breath. ”You want to know about my past? Alright, but you can’t tell anyone else. Can I trust you?”

She nods her head, placing a hand on yours. ”Of course- I just want to help. Your secret’s safe with me” she tells you, taking her other hand and making a motion as though she’s zipping her lips and tossing away the key.

”Right…” you respond, focusing your gaze on the slowly dying fire. ”My entire village was destroyed. Murdered. My parents included” you tell her bluntly. ”I was the only survivor. The reason I took up being a Herald of Conquest was to prepare other people for the reality of this world. I figured if they knew their lives could be taken from them at any moment unless they strengthened themselves and prepared for such possibilities, then maybe what happened to me wouldn’t happen to them.”

Your explanation is vague and simple. No flowery details, no unnecessary mention of Silas or your Master, and definitely no emotions. You could feel them starting to well up for a moment- a desire to let everything out that you’ve pushed down for years- but you hold yourself back. Not yet- at least not until you’re sure you can trust Clarissa.

”Oh, Herald…” she says quietly, pulling you into a hug all of a sudden. You’re unable to resist with only one arm and due to the suddenness of it, but the gesture is...nice. Comfortable. Warm.

”I’m fine, but now you know why I don’t like talking about my past” you conclude.

She lets you go from her embrace, putting her hand back down on the ground between you two. ”Thanks for being open with me. Don’t worry, I won’t tell the others. I’ll be here if you ever need me- just like you told me back at the guild. We can support each other” she says, cocking her head with a gentle smile.

”Appreciated. I’m going to get some rest- you should do the same. It’s Barret’s turn to go on watch, so I’ll wake him” you tell her.

(1/2)
>>
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The conversation finished, the two of you head into your respective tents, you shaking Barret awake and letting him know it’s his turn before lying down to rest. You also make a point to use your bag of holding as a pillow. It’s uncomfortable, but this way if anyone, like that thief back in Fulton, tries to mess with your belongings- they’ll likely wake you up. There’s not really any way to hide your valuables, so you decide to settle for this. Your dreams are pleasant for once- nice and warm. You dream of a better future where there’s no monsters or Silas- where you and all your companions are happy.

When you wake up, you’re relieved to find you and your friends’ things haven’t been messed with. With that out of the way, you do some quick training with the others for around a half hour after consuming one of your rations. Like you promised, you stick to light warm-ups instead of pushing your companions as per usual. Once that’s finished, the Super Conqueror Bros head out.

After several hours, you realize you’re nearly at the tomb and think about if there’s anything you want to do at the last minute before continuing forward.

>Speak with someone (Who? About what?)
>Do something/prepare (What? How?)
>Keep moving. Dungeon time, baby

(2/2)
>>
>>4806057
>>Do something
Practice flute the whole way there
>>
>>4806057
>Tell Clarissa to check for traps/oddities (traces, footsteps, misplaced rocks, etc) in our way
>Keep moving. Dungeon time, baby
>>
>>4806057
Do we still have our ten foot pole we used to check the goblin cave for traps? Or did we use our banner pole? Either way let's give it to Clarissa and give her the run down on how we checked for traps in the past and have her take point (don't forget to be as vague as possible about WHERE we checked for traps, don't need a triggered Clarissa leading the way)
>>
>>4806158
You used your banner pole. I will say you CAN do this if you really truly want to, but giving over your banner as a Herald to someone else is an ultimate sign of trust, way more than admitting your past.

That flag is basically a representation of your dedication, and if something happens to it it'd be like sullying your own reputation.

Since its sort of at a tie-ish area plus that was worth informing about, ill leave the vote up for another hour or so before calling it
>>
>>4806057
>Tell Clarissa to check for traps/oddities (traces, footsteps, misplaced rocks, etc) in our way
>Keep moving. Dungeon time, baby
Pole is ours, that's that
>>
>>4806100
>>4806133
>>4806158
>>4806543
Tell Clarissa to keep an eye out for traps, keep moving to the dungeon

Writing!
>>
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You approach Clarissa as your group travels. ”Hey, I want you to keep an eye out for traps. From what I heard in the village, this place could be full of them” you tell her.

She gives you a half-hearted smile, scratching the back of her head. ”I’ll try my best Herald, but that’s really more of a rogue’s territory. Shame we don’t have one in our party…” she mutters. ”Anyway, I’ll do my best!”

It doesn’t take much longer for your group to arrive at the tomb- a large, stone building with intricate obsidian pillars hidden by a forest far enough away from any towns that most people don’t bother with it- which is really the only explanation for how this thing hadn’t been found before since it’s freaking huge!

Upon stepping inside, the first things you’re met with are darkness and the rank smell of death. Thankfully, it only lasts a moment before Jeanne whips out her staff. ”Light!” she calls out, her staff flashing as the room becomes visible.

The entrance is tall, as you gathered from looking at the building from the outside, but rather empty. The walls have some ancient script written on them, but nobody in your group is capable of deciphering the mysterious language. Cobwebs hang around every corner as you head towards the only way forward- a large set of stairs descending deep into the ground.

With Jeanne behind you, you take the lead and march down the stairs with your group in tow, surprised by just how deep they go. Several minutes pass before you finally reach the bottom, leading into an antechamber with three branching paths- one forward, one to the left, and one to the right.

The center path is blocked by a large set of double doors. They have an image of a great and powerful wizard raining magic down upon a mass of fleeing townsfolk. Just above the wizards open palms are two concave areas that look as though they’re meant to hold something.

”Wow, seems like a great guy” Jeanne muses.

From the left, you can hear the sound of something clattering about. You can’t quite make out what it might be, but there’s definitely movement coming from there.

On the right side however, Clarissa manages to catch something. ”Guys, over here!” she calls, ushering your group to join her. She points to a little smudge on the wall, just above some more of that indecipherable text a little ways into the right path. ”This looks like a marker to keep track of where you’ve been.”

”Does that mean the explorer guy went that way?” Barret asks.

”Well, it means someone did anyway” the ranger answers.

>Head left, towards the clattering sound
>Head right, where the marker was found
>Examine the room more closely. Maybe you’ll find some kind of secret or something
>Other (write in)
>>
I have a feeling the clattering is our knife-loving mystery man got here before us, and that's the sound of him fighting something or fucking up a puzzle. The question is do we go apprehend him and make sure he isn't a loose liability, or go for the man that totally isn't medieval Indiana Jones and make sure he's alive and with us?
>>
Rolled 1 (1d2)

>>4806793

>Head left, towards the clattering sound
>Head right, where the marker was found
>>
>>4806793
>Examine the room more closely. Maybe you’ll find some kind of secret or something

I am NOT missing out on a secret level, damn it
>>
>>4794250
Damn anon, a couple of days ago I just came to /qst/ to see what's about, and since then I started reading this Quest and I love it, you're the best and is nice to catch out to the actual thread.

>>4806793
>>4806985
+1
>>
>>4806793
>Examine the room more closely. Maybe you’ll find some kind of secret or something
then
>Put Barret on the rear guard
>Head right, where the marker was found


>>4806892
Anon, I'm quite positive it's not the case.
>>
>>4806985
,+1
>>
>examine the room more closely

I also get a feeling that the guy with the knife was a rogue and we were supposed to speak to him and ask him to join us...

We should investigate the clattering to the left to see if it is him. Chances are it will be something waiting to kill us however
>>
>>4807823
If we were *supposed* to do it, then it would be railroading. I'm glad we didn't even speak to that cliché asshole, there is plenty of rogues in the world who don't instinctively wanna steal from people.
>>
Honesty moment, I got home from work a bit ago and really wanna update for you guys (been wracking my brain with ideas all day) but I am just DEAD fucking tired, so I'm gonna give myself a few hours or so, and if I've got some energy I'll crank a few posts out- otherwise we'll continue tomorrow at full force.

As always, thanks for reading and playing A Herald's Journey!
>>
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>>4808562
Take your sweet time, HQM. Nobody here wants you to force yourself to write.
>>
>>4808562
Chad QM telling us if he will or will not update
Take your time!
>>
>>4807823
I get the feeling he was just a thief and he stole/killed the innkeeper and his daughter after we were gone, even more so after we gave 100 gold to her in front of him

>>4806985
Thus and we also
>Tie a wolf leather/goblin skin with some rocks in it to give it more weight into a ball and tie a knot around it(pic related) to roll/hit posible trap triggers infront of us

We got 40ft of rope we should be able to do the monkey fist and check for traps more easily with it

Anyone thinks this could be a bad idea?
>>
>>4806793
Anons, we are stupid. We are so stupid.
Changing my vote (>>4807514) (different ID) to:
>Use Elden Ring on the room
See what happened in the past and take a look at our unfortunate adventurer. If the rogue got here before us, we will know. We might or might not determine the source of clattering as well.

This is why I don't like having 100 items in inventory, we simply forget each of them after using it once.
>>
>>4808678
and examine the room after, of course!
>>
>>4808678
Your a genius!
Support
>>
>>4808678
Oh yeah this would be better but i would like to also prepare the monkey ball rope thing >>4808641

Forgetting about your stuff while having a dimensional bag is realistic i think
>>
>>4808700
I checked the inventory only thanks to >>4808641

>>4808706
InfinityBag aside, you do have a better connection to your things irl (like, you think about them throughout the day and feel their presence), but in quest you tend to forget absolutely everything that isn't written in front of you constantly.
Not trying to be a shitter here, but again that's why I'm not fond of stocking on miscellaneous things (excluding food/light items), since we'll just waste gold and forget their existence. Attempting to buy crowbar for the second time was a brilliant example of how pointless and forgetful those items really are (and that anons don't even check inventory before shopping).
>>
Amending my vote to include the use of the elden ring. Good thinking on that one!
>>
>>4806793


Changing from>>4806979
to
>>4808678

Fucking brilliant
>>
>>4806985
>>4807142
>>4807514
>>4807516
>>4807823
>>4808641
>>4808678
>>4808700
>>4808706
>>4808917
>>4809009
I'm seeing use the elden ring plus to a little examination of your own!

Roll me 1d20+4 (+3 for INT, +1 for Investigation). May take a bit, but I'mma try to get out at least one tonight
>>
Rolled 5 + 4 (1d20 + 4)

>>4809309
>>
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”Give me a second, I want to investigate a little” you tell your team.

You take your time going around the room, Jeanne’s light giving you plenty of visibility to work with. There’s the two hallways of course- check. There’s also those giant double doors. Mmm-hmm, check check. There are also four sconces for torches on the wall, one of which seems to be missing said torch. Maybe the explorer guy grabbed it? Check check check.

You…feel a bit embarrassed about your lack of investigation skills and the fact that there isn’t much of the room to really check. You make a point to go around and examine random parts of the wall, nodding occasionally or patting them for good measure.

Clarissa looks to Barret, who just shrugs.

Come on, think, THINK! Wait, that’s it! You reach into your bag and pull out the Elden Ring, holding it in your hand for a moment. This thing always makes you feel sick after using it- hell, you’d hesitate to try putting it on more than once in a single day- but it hasn’t steered you wrong yet!

You slip it on as a thin layer of imagery supersedes reality around you. Not much changes, save for there being a torch in the previously empty sconce, currently lit, and a thin man probably in his late twenties standing in front of the double doors with a charcoal and some parchment. He’s wearing some kind of funky hat, and has big, dorky glasses on. Additionally, he’s got strange, tan clothing with lots of pockets- the type of thing people who call themselves ‘travellers’ often wear and claim it’s efficient. It’s really just silly looking, and especially on such a thin and unathletic man.

He seems to be finishing up a rough sketch of the doors in front of him, creating a few final marks before stuffing the charcoal in one of his pockets. ”Perfect! Already a fascinating find! Oh, this is certain to make me famous!” he states.

Next, he tucks his parchments away in the giant backpack he’s got strapped on- similar to the one you used before getting your bag of holding. Come to think of it, you still have that backpack stashed in said bag of holding.

He then pulls out a wooden ten foot pole, holding it in one hand while he grabs the torch from the sconce. He spends a solid three minutes or so meticulously tapping around the room and the first few steps into each hallway. You can already start to feel the headache coming on- damn it, is this all you’re going to get?

(1/2)
>>
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Right as you’re about to yank the ring off, he stashes the pole away for a moment and approaches some of that ancient script near the right hallway, carefully placing his hand on it. As soon as he does so, his eyes suddenly widen as he takes a step back, looking between his hand and the writing on the wall. ”Fascinating…” he mutters to himself before heading down the right hallway. You see him pull the charcoal out again and make that mark Clarissa pointed out right as the pain becomes too much to bear. You quickly yank the ring off, taking a moment to catch your breath and let the aches subside as you stash it back into your bag of holding.

Once you calm down, Jeanne moves to your side. ”You see anything?” she asks.

”Maybe. Let me try something…” you respond, trailing off as you head towards the writing near the right hallway. Taking a deep breath, you place your hand on it. Instantly, ideas enter your mind. They aren’t exactly words or concrete images, but you get the distinct feeling of an idea that there’s some sort of mental trial lying ahead.

Curious, you start touching other parts of the wall where there’s text, and get other ideas in your head- such as this wizard blasting citizens away, or people trying to put him away into this enclosure. Wait, is this really a tomb? The ideas aren’t exactly concrete enough to get a full picture of what’s going on, but you get the idea that maybe touching these texts let’s anyone understand the basic meaning behind what’s written.

Moving forward, you touch the text near the entrance into the left hallway. This one gives you the idea of some sort of physical trial for your body lying ahead. Okay- so there’s two trials you have to pass to move forward here. Fairly simple and straightforward. You also know you can glean some information by touching these texts, and share this with your companions.

”Nice find, Herald!” Jeanne congratulates you with a toothy smile. She goes around the walls as well, touching the various texts, each one causing her to look more excited than the last- as if she were a kid in a candy store. ”Amazing...is this some sort of enchanted script? I’ve never seen anything like it!”

”So are we going to rescue this guy, or are we just feeling up the room all day?” Clarissa quips. Fair enough- you should probably get moving. You’ve got an explorer to rescue!

>To the left, for the trial of the body!
>To the right, for the trial of the mind!
>No need to get lost in the idea of ‘exploring an ancient tomb/seal that may have untold treasures’, just head to the right until you find the explorer and get out.
>Other (write in)

(2/2)
>>
>>4809350
>To the left, for the trial of the body!
TOO SWOLE TO CONTROL, BAYBEEEE
>>
>>4809350
>>To the left, for the trial of the body!
>>
>trial of the mind

If this guy is in trouble rescuing him is time sensitive. We can do the trial of the body afterwards
>>
>>4809546
Normally after you choose one you can't do the other
>>4809350
>Mental trial
The physical trial is tempting but we wouldn't be able to gain anything if that explorer didn't come here so we indirectly own him

We can do the mental trial while we try to find the explorer and maybe we can do physical trial later
>>
>>4809350
>>4809462
Alriiiight, changing my vote to
>TRIAL OF THE MIND.
>>
>>4809350
>To the right, for the trial of the mind!
Let's keep our INT 6 Jeanne close for this one!
>>
>>4809350
>To the right, for the trial of the mind!
>>
>>4809465
>>4809546
>>4809570
>>4809575
>>4809669
>>4809980
Trial of the mind

Writing!
>>
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You steel yourself and make a decision. ”This way” you tell your companions, heading towards the right hallway. You’re already pretty confident in your physical abilities, so might as well get the trial of the mind out of the way first. Besides, this is the way the explorer you’re supposed to be rescuing actually went.

You head down the hallway, which after a point makes a sharp ninety degree turn to the left that leads you into another stone room, this one with a strange insignia you don’t recognize above a door on the far end. In front of this door is a huge...something made out of stone, with that strange script all over it. It looks to be vaguely humanoid.

”A golem” Jeanne whispers. ”Looks inactive right now.

”Well uh, it’s kind of in the way of the door” Barret points out.

The room itself is mostly sparse, though there are a few pleasant ornamentations. A chandelier hangs above the ceiling about ten feet in the air, made of bronze. There’s also a bronze vase in the corner with that same insignia above the door, as well as a depiction of people holding spears.

Not far into the entrance is a small stone pillar with more of that script on it. Placing your hand on the writing reveals the idea that you need to solve something correctly to move forward, or else you’ll have to fight the golem- which you relay to your teammates.

”I’m not sure our weapons would even do anything to that” Clarissa points out. ”I mean shit, it’s made of fucking stone.”

”They would work to an extent, but only my magic would be truly effective against it” Jeanne explains. ”Golems are tricky like that- which is why they make fine guardians for mages. Let’s just try not to screw up whatever this problem is.”

(1/2)
>>
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Stepping towards the golem and the door it’s guarding, you notice something written on the side of the wall that you can actually read- if only because it’s numbers instead of words. Thank God those are universal (see image).

”The answer is nine!” Barret states.

”No you idiot, you’re forgetting PEMDAS” Clarissa retorts.

”Pen wha?”

”PEMDAS. Parenthesis, Exponents, Multiplication, Division, Addition, Subtraction. That’s the order you do math problems in” she says. ”The answer is one!”

Jeanne lets out a worried sigh. ”Actually, it may not be that simple. Not all civilizations in history have used PEMDAS. What’s worse is that the equation doesn’t use the typical symbols we have for division- it uses an older style that makes things unclear which order they go in. The equation is poorly written, so it could actually be either one” she admits.

Clarissa gives her a look of exasperation. ”You’re joking.”

”I’m afraid I’m not. On the bright side, we can always just beat the golem to move forward!” she says, forcing herself to smile. Barret and Clarissa don’t seem too happy with this conclusion.

They all eventually turn to you for guidance. You grab a piece of chalk out from your pack, stepping up to the equation. Seems like you’re the one who’s going to make the decision. Damn it, if only you could see what that explorer guy wrote! He’s clearly gotten past this point already, and you’re three thousand percent sure he couldn’t take on a golem.

>Write “9”
>Write “1”
>Draw a dick, who cares? You want to CONQUEST a golem!
>Other (write in)

(2/2)
>>
>>4810147
6 / (2(1+2))
6 / (2(3))
6 / (6)
6/6 = 1

>write 1
>>
>>4810157
>American education
6/2*(1+2)
6/2*3
3*3 = 9

But because it's a stupid fucking puzzle used as bait on /pol/ daily, I'll vote for

>>4810147
>Draw a dick, who cares? You want to CONQUEST a golem!
>>
>>4810147
>Draw a dick, who cares? You want to CONQUEST a golem!
>>
>>4810165
For reference, I don't go on /pol/ and wasn't aware of this. I was floating this as that thing relatives always share on facebook. Meant to be a silly tone lol
>>
>>4810165
the question is written left to right without the first two numbers being in parentheses so it really could be either "6/2 * (1+2)" or "6 / (2(1+2))" which i think is the point of the bait anyway, that it's written unclearly and creates a shitflinging contest

but that said, i chose my answer because it looks like 6 is divided by the rest of the problem
>>
>>4810200
also switching to draw a dick cuz this is probably a trick anyway
>>
>>4810147
>Write “9”
It's 9, not a dick you retards.
>>
>>4810147
Lets just assume its done from right to left because that way the equation wouldn't be "not clear" and why not
<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<
1=6÷6=6÷2*3=6÷2(1+2)
<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<

>Write "1"
>>
>>4810147
right to left
>Write "1"
>>
>write 1

May as well pick one so we have a chance of not having to fight A GIANT FUCKING MONSTER THAT ONLY ONE OF OUR TEAM CAN HURT
>>
>Draw a dick, who cares? You want to CONQUEST a golem!
>>
>>4810165
>>4810187
>>4810196
>>4810201
>>4810259
>>4810293
>>4810313
>>4810319
>>4810486
Draw a dick

Writing!
>>
>trial of the mind
>Draw a dick

To be honest, it is probably the most accurate representation of our collective minds! Lol
>>
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”You all are thinking about this too hard” you tell the group, glancing backwards at your friends as you begin writing your answer for the equation.

”Does that mean you’ve figured it out, boss man?” Barret asks.

”Uh-huh” you answer with a smug smirk hidden beneath your helmet, stepping away to reveal the dick and balls you’ve drawn.

Immediately, your answer begins to glow red and fade away from the wall, red light emanating from the scripts all over the golem’s body as the sound of grating stone rings throughout the room, the massive figure beginning to move.

”ARE YOU FUCKING KIDDING ME, HERALD? WHY WOULD YOU DO THAT?!” Jeanne shouts, panicked and furious.

”It’s pointless to worry about what the right or wrong answer might be” you respond as the stone creature somehow lets out a low, guttural roar despite having no mouth.

”YOU COULD’VE AT LEAST MADE A FUCKING ATTEMPT!” she shouts, turning red with fury.

”But then I wouldn’t get to fight a golem! I want to CONQUEST it” you respond matter of factly, giving her a thumbs up before drawing Decimator.

”If we make it out of this alive, I am so going to kill you” Clarissa grumbles.

You also hear a loud thud from behind you. A quick glance shows that a large slab of stone has slammed down from the top of the entrance, blocking your escape. Man, those stares from your friends could kill. They should save that energy for the golem!

Your group’s frustrations aside, the creature is ready to fight, and you’re all too happy to oblige!

>Attack (If no weapon specified, assumed Decimator)
>Use a technique (Which?)
>Do something fancy (What?)
>Give commands (What?)
>Other (write in)

---

Combat rounds will be a little longer. Gonna try for 1 hour- and it may take me longer than that depending on how things go. I’m pretty busy tonight (and this whole weekend for that matter), but I’ll do my best to finish up the fight by tonight or tomorrow morning at the latest. Good luck!
>>
>>4810662
>Give commands
>Jeanne's Fireball at the start
Since that fucker is resistant to nonmagical damage, she has to go full offense
>Assume defensive stance with Barret
To probe and see how dangerous that thing really is
>Clarissa grab a rope (toss ours to her if she has none) and try to lasso golem's legs so we can topple him
This because her bow will suck against stone anyway
>>
>>4810715
+1
>>4810662
>>
>>4810715
+1
>>
>>4810662
Also can we get a rundown on what weapons everyone has? I think we gave Clarissa a dagger or two.
>>
>>4810715
Yeah this
>>
>>4810753
Barret: His trusty Longsword
Jeanne: Staff. She's really using magic, but in an absolute pinch she can swing it for 1d6+STR damage.
Clarissa: Longbow, 1 normal dagger from you, 1 great quality dagger from you, both of Trawn's Daggers (Great Quality). She's holding on to them all for now cheekily in case she runs out of arrows and needs to throw them, but she'll happily give back whatever you ask from her.

>>4810715
>>4810716
>>4810743
>>4810760
Roll me 1d20+5 (+5 for DEX) to hit. You need a 13 or higher.

If you hit, roll me 1d20+8 (+7 for STR, +1 for Good Quality). Damage will be 1/4 of normal. Halved for Golem's resistance, halved again for Defensive Stance. (Assuming you're attacking while taking defensive posture since there's no reason not to). Barret's attack damage if he hits will suffer the same penalties.

When you're not using defensive posture, all regular weapon attacks against the Golem will deal half damage. Also, the golem is an enemy that can't bleed, so the serrated effects won't apply even if you roll a 19 or 20.

Also, someone roll me 1d20+7 (+7 for DEX) for Clarissa to lasso the golem down. Need a 20 or higher to succeed.
>>
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Rolled 13 + 5 (1d20 + 5)

>>4810772
COME ON HERALD, HIT THAT BITCH-ASS GOLEM

Also HQM, I have a question. Earlier you said we needed to use both of our hands to wield the Mace of the General Orc, but of course that will be a problem now. But what about if we use the Orc's mace with one hand and holding it over our shoulder? Like that Dark Sould 1 enemy, Havel. I guess it wont help too much but it would be better than if we just support all that weight with only one arm, but if we can use it but with a malus I would give it a try, it will be more effective than the Decimator
>>
>>4810824
I love your creativity, but I'd have to say it's a no, or else it undermines the principle of not being able to one-hand it until you hit STR 8.

I'll check back in ~20ish minutes for the damage and Clarissa rolls from other anons btw. Just for general reference, when rolls take a while to come in for the future, it may take me a while to post because I still have responsibilities to attend to etc. Figured I should give a heads up on that front!
>>
Rolled 17 + 8 (1d20 + 8)

hey I was just lurking
I enjoyed reading your stuff over the past few days but know basically nothing about board conventions
I hope I did this right
>>
Rolled 11 + 7 (1d20 + 7)

>>4810936
>>
rip my roll opportunity lmao
>>
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Rolled 6, 17 + 3 = 26 (2d20 + 3)

”Barret, you take a defensive stance and help me probe this thing- see what it can do. Clarissa, catch” you tell the ranger, reaching into your bag while still holding Decimator, and just barely managing to hold onto the forty feet of rope as you toss it her way. ”Try to lasso its legs in a moment. Jeanne- blast him”

Everyone steps towards the farther reaches of the room first as Jeanne holds out her staff, a large, red magical circle forming in front of it. ”Fireball!” she shouts, as a huge sphere of flame erupts from the circle and slams into the golem, charring the stone and sending it skidding a few inches backwards.

*Golem’s Health: -28 (52/80)*

*Jeanne’s Major Spell Slots: 2/3*

Once that’s settled, Clarissa tries to get the lasso around the golem’s legs, but unfortunately it just falls short- the hole of the lasso falling around one of its knees and sliding off towards the ground as she hurriedly pulls it back towards her.

You and Barret both keep your guard up as you lunge forward with your swords. Between the golem’s tough exterior and your careful swordplay however, you barely leave a dent in the creature. Barret’s strike quickly glances off its leg as yours just manages to hit its waist before you both step back and examine the situation.

*Golem’s Health: -3 (49/80)*

*Golem’s Health: -4 (45/80)*

With that, the golem lets out another roar somehow and raises its two, thick arms into the air- attempting to slam one down on Barret and another on you!

---

Roll 1d20+5 (+5 for DEX) to dodge! First roll is against you, second is against Barret.
>>
Rolled 6 + 5 (1d20 + 5)

>>4811059
HANG ON TA SOMETHIIIIING
>>
Rolled 6, 1 + 4 = 11 (2d8 + 4)

Rolling damage against Barret

2d8+4 (+8 for STR, -2 for Chainmail, -2 for Defensive Stance)
>>
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The golem brings its fist down on you, though you manage to jump out of the way just in time as it slams into the ground, leaving a small crater in its wake. Barret, on the other hand, gets smacked in the torso by the side of the creature’s other arm, sending him flying into the wall.

*Barret’s Health: -11 (29/40)*

Blood spurts out of the fighter’s mouth as he clutches his torso with his free hand, picking himself up as he begins to circle the creature again alongside you. Even though you two have fought together through some tough situations for a while now, you can’t help but be impressed at seeing him get hit that hard and still getting back up and jumping straight into the fight.

”Do you want me to try and lasso this thing again? Should I just use my bow?” Clarissa asks, the rope back in her hands now as a window of opportunity opens for your party to strike.

>Attack
>Use a technique (Which?)
>Do something fancy (What?)
>Give commands (What?)
>Other (write in)

---

Another 30-60ish minute voting round!
>>
Guys, why don't we use the Grappling Hook? With that and the help of Clarissa doing the lasso in the Golem leg, we might make the Golem fall until it's dead. Or even grab the chalk and try to leave the correct answer to see if the Golem stop attacking us
>>
Not seeing any concrete votes yet, gonna leave this one up another thirty-ish minutes or so, and if there's no solid responses I may leave it here for the night and continue updating ~10:00 AM CDT (3:00 PM UTC) tomorrow
>>
>>4811117
>ATTACK!

>Clarissa can use the darn lasso thing again!
>>
>>4811288
+1
>>
>>4811288
+1

But if this fails again, we use this anons method >>4811179
>>
>>4811288
This
>>
>>4811288
>>4811317
>>4811339
>>4811553

Roll me 1d20+5 (+5 for DEX) to attack! You need a 13 or higher to hit.

If you make it, roll me 1d10+8 (+7 for STR, +1 for Good Quality).

Also, someone roll me 1d20+7 (+7 for DEX) For Clarissa to try the lasso again. You need a 20 or higher to succeed.

Without commands, Jeanne will be using Firebolt and Barret will attack normally.
>>
Rolled 11 + 5 (1d20 + 5)

>>4811952
>>
Rolled 6 + 8 (1d10 + 8)

>>4811952
>>
Rolled 5 + 7 (1d20 + 7)

>>4811952
>>
Rolled 7 + 7 (1d20 + 7)

>>4811952
>>
>>4811952
Keep Barret in defense please.
>>
>>4811998
>>4811997
For fuck sake men, this rolls really sucks...
>>
>>4812001
We deal 3/4 dmg and max would be 7, so it's not all that bad. The lasso sucks but we have more turns to try it.
>>
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”Clarissa, stick to the lasso plan! Everyone else, keep the pressure up!” you order.

Jeanne steps behind the three of you, pointing her staff towards the stone monstrosity. ”Firebolt!” she calls out, a dart of flame erupting from the wooden implement and striking the bottom of the golem’s ‘head’, or the closest thing it has to one.

*Golem’s Health: -12 (40/80)*

Barret charges forward and lashes at the golem’s leg, this time not holding back to play it defensively. You can see some damage where the weapon connected, but the golem doesn’t seem to slow down at all. Cracks, however, do start to form from where the hit landed.

*Golem’s Health: -5 (35/80)*

Using the opportunity, you tell Barret to back up as you strike hard with Decimator where his hit landed before, further deepening the cut as well as spreading the cracks all along his leg. Alright, you’re getting somewhere!

*Golem’s Health: -7 (28/80)*

Just as you ordered, Clarissa tries again with the lasso, but this time she doesn’t even get close to landing it, the rope falling a few feet short. She looks helplessly at the rope as she tries to spool it back up again. You can tell she’s frustrated, feeling useless. You’re not sure whether it’s your fault for the idea or if she’s just too upset and confused to pull her weight.

You don’t have time to think about it as the golem readies both of its large, stone arms to swing into you!

---

Roll 1d20+5 (+5 for DEX) to dodge!
>>
Rolled 3 + 5 (1d20 + 5)

>>4812013
>>
Rolled 14 + 5 (1d20 + 5)

>>4812013
>>
Rolled 9, 14 + 3 = 26 (2d20 + 3)

It occured to me I forgot to make the attack rolls lmao. Let me do that now
>>
Rolled 8, 3, 8, 6 + 10 = 35 (4d8 + 10)

This... is gonna sting.

Rolling damage against Herald

2d8+5 (+8 for STR, -3 for Plate Armor) x 2
>>
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Shit shit shit. You got too close! For a split second, just a fraction of a second, you lapse into pure instinct- going to raise your shield up to brace for impact instead of trying to roll or run away in any capacity.

You no longer have your left arm or a shield.

The moment you spend distracted in that useless motion is enough for the golem’s arm to slam into your side hard, the sound of bone fracturing heard throughout the room as blood spurts forth from your mouth- just as its other fist slams down hard on your midsection, pinning you to the ground as a crater forms beneath you. After another second it lifts its arm again, freeing you.

*Herald’s Health: -35 (25/60)*

You’re in a lot of pain, but you’re still more than capable of moving and fighting. A part of you does think, however, that maybe you should have given that math problem an earnest try after all.

>Attack
>Use a technique (Which?)
>Do something fancy (What?)
>Give commands (What?)
>Other (write in)

---

Another 30-60 minute round! Also may need to stop posting for the day after combat is over, as I have lots of school work to do
>>
>>4812050
>Herald on defense (switch Decimator to shield if possible)
>Jeanne Fireball
>Barret attack
>Clarissa attack from distance
>>
>>4812050
>>4812057
+1 This!
>>
Who ever voted first for drawing a dick in the math problem, I fucking hate u

>>4812057
+1
>>
>>4812057
>>4812072
>>4812084
Since Herald's solely playing defense and I typically handle the npcs, I'll handle this next post,

Writing!
>>
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You sheath Decimator and pull the shield out from your backpack, fumbling to get it around your arm and bring it up as you take a defensive stance. ”Jeanne, blast the damn thing again! Barret and Clarissa, if she doesn’t finish it off, you two step in!” you order them.

”Understood, boss man!” the doofy-haired fighter calls out.

Once more, you and your teammates all back up as Jeanne pulls out her staff, another large magic circle forming. ”Fireball!” she calls out, a torrent of flame bursting forth and enveloping the golem.

*Golem’s Health: -29 (-1/80)*

*Jeanne’s Major Spell Slots: 1/3*

When the smoke and flames clear, all that’s left is singed stone as the creature falls to the ground, turning into rubble. After a moment, the doors behind the pile of rocks open. ”We did it!” you cheer, pumping your arm up into the air, a stupid grin on your face. Getting to CONQUEST something so big and powerful makes you feel pretty damn good, and helps you look past some of those insecurities you’ve had about being useless.

Your teammates, however, do not share your excitement. Jeanne is already by Barret’s side, checking him over. ”Are you hurt?” she asks, examining him more closely.

”I’ll be alright” he replies with a soft chuckle, sheathing his own weapon.

Clarissa storms over to you. ”What the fuck was that about, Herald?” she almost shouts, shoving the coil of rope into your arm. ”Why would you screw us like that? Barret could’ve gotten seriously hurt!” she says, gesturing over towards the fighter.

”Guys, it’s okay- I’m fine!” he says, wincing a little. ”Boss man got it much worse than me, anyways.”

”And that makes it okay?” Jeanne chimes in, standing up as she turns to face you. ”We trusted you to make a decision as our leader, and you decided to screw us over. What, to test your strength or something? Putting stupid Conquest over your friends’ lives?!” she asks, furious.

”Hey! you snap back, ”Conquest isn’t stupid, and I do value your lives. I knew we’d be able to take it- we’ve fought worse!” you retort.

”We’ve fought worse because we had to. We did it to help people, or because we were in a tough spot. You intentionally screwed us over, Herald!”

”Guys, guys!” Barret shouts, turning everyone’s attention on him. ”Look, we can fight about this after we’re done with the mission. Can we just agree to focus on the rescue for now, and maybe exploring this tomb? Look, the door’s open” he says, gesturing towards it.

”Fine, but this isn’t over” Clarissa answers, sucking in her teeth and folding her arms as she turns away from you.

Choices next post, barely didn’t fit
>>
>Keep moving forward. The sooner you find the explorer, the better
>Have the crew do some healing (Do you use your potions? How many and on who? Does Clarissa use her last spell slot for healing someone? If so, who?)
>No, you need to resolve this issue here and now (What do you say?)
>Other (write in)

---

This may be the last update for today- I have a ton to do this weekend. Will try my best to get a post out sometime today or tomorrow. At the very latest you’ll see me back at full force on Monday, but I’ll probably be back sometime tomorrow or later tonight.

As always, thanks for reading and playing A Herald’s Journey!
>>
Jeanne use her last spell slot, not Clarissa*
>>
>>4812135
How expensive are the healing potions and how effective? I started reading from thread 3

I think we should apologize and explain herald wanted to fight that golem because he thinks he needs strong fights to override old combat habits with his left arm, mention how he got hit for trying to block with his nonexistent left arm, but now you realize it was too reckless and the dangers outweighed the benefits, it won't happen again.
(I hope)
>>
>>4812134
Herald needs to apologize and explain that he has been feeling less of a man since he lost his arm.

He wanted to prove to himself he was still badass and got carried away, by the time he had thought of the rest of the team it was too late.

It was selfish and it won't happen again.

But on the plus side it was a new dynamic for the team, Jeanne taking the lead doing damage with everyone else in more support/distraction roles and as we can see it worked very well!
>>
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>>4812135
>Have the crew do some healing
chug the pots (us 2, Barret 1), save the spell slot
>Don't mention the walldick until we leave this place

>>4812209
>how expensive/effective
pic related
>>
>>4812268
Apologies, still working on stuff but just popped in to check. Thanks for linking the store for this anon >>4812209!

As a quick aside, Emergency Health Kits have since been changed to 'restore an unconscious target to consciousness' as the system has grown.
>>
>>4812322
does bleeding out exist in this system?
>>
>>4812352
Yes but there isn't a hard mechanic. Basically, if someone goes unconscious in combat, they will likely be bleeding to death (unless I suppose you only used magic or were careful in some way). There isn't a hard mechanic behind it, but if they are left alone without healing they will die.
>>
>>4812268
Support
>>
>>4812209
>>4812227
This
>>
We forfeit our gold earned for this mission to them for risking their lives on some stupid monster.

Good plan?
>>
>>4812887
hell no
>>
>>4812887
We are kinda poor at the moment so NO
Also it makes us look as if we think money solved everything
>>
>>4812887
That's a no from me
>>
>>4813445
>>4813602
>>4813703
Just apologize?
>>
>>4813714
>”Guys, guys!” Barret shouts, turning everyone’s attention on him. ”Look, we can fight about this after we’re done with the mission. Can we just agree to focus on the rescue for now, and maybe exploring this tomb? Look, the door’s open” he says, gesturing towards it.
>>
Almost done with my work for this week (just one more paper!), but I'm absolutely floored so probably no update tonight, especially because I'm anticipating it being a large-ish post.

We will be back tomorrow morning though, and I figured I'd take the time to clarify the votes and make sure you all are on the same page.

I take it you guys want to
1. Apologize to group/fess up about why you fought golem
and
2. Use 3 health potions (2 on yourself, 1 on Barret)
3. Move forward to next room after previous two things are done

Note- these are all the health potions you currently have on hand.

Does this sound good?
>Y
>N

If N is the majority, I'm just going to go with talking to your group and then moving forward without healing, as that was the highest vote.

Of course, if you HAVEN'T voted yet and want to, feel free to do that as well. Just trying to make sure I understand what y'all want!
>>
>>4814875
Maybe use only 2 potions 1 on each
Y
>>
>>4814875
>>Y
>>
>N

We should save one potion for the explorer
>>
>>4814875
>Y

Good luck on the paper and thanks for being flexible, man.
>>
>>4815541
>>4814955
And now that I look again I agree with this anon--let's use two potions!
>>
>>4814875
>>4814955
>>4815544
I agree with these.
>>
>>4814875
>Y
>>
>>4814875
Y
>>
Rolled 4, 4 + 2 = 10 (2d4 + 2)

Alright, only two potions- one for Barret, one for you, one leftover in case.

Roll me 2d4+2 for Herald's health potion (Dice above are for Barret)
>>
Rolled 4, 2 + 2 = 8 (2d4 + 2)

>>4816117
>>
Rolled 4, 1 + 2 = 7 (2d4 + 2)

>>4816117
>>
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No, you can’t just keep moving. There may be more battles waiting for you in this place, and it won’t do to have your teammates upset with you. Better to be open and clear the air with them now.

”I’m sorry, alright? I needed a strong fight to help me start overriding some of my old combat habits now that I’m…” you trail off, tilting your head towards your left stump. ”You saw what happened just now, right? I stopped because I instinctively went to raise my left arm to block with my shield. Need to get rid of old instincts.”

The tension dies down a little, but the girls still don’t seem happy. ”Then you tell us about that ahead of time- explain it to us, communicate” Jeanne answers. Shit, she’s got a point. ”And also, you know, maybe not in the middle of a rescue mission? Come on Herald, was that really what this was all about?”

You let out a sigh. Fine, you’ll admit it. ”Alright, maybe that wasn’t all. Ever since I’ve lost my arm, I’ve felt like...like I’m less of a man. A burden to the team.” You take a deep breath before continuing. ”I wanted to show you guys that I’m just as capable and strong as ever, and I got a little carried away without thinking the consequences through. I’m sorry, honestly.”

That admission seems to carry some weight. You’re not sure whether it’s because you’ve never opened up that much before or because it better explains your actions, but the girls’ expressions soften, and Barret nods his head slowly, as if approving of what you’re saying.

”I guess we have been a little too conscious of your injury. I can understand why you’d start to think that way” Jeanne responds, looking guilty.

”It’s my fault- I’m the one who wanted everyone to go easy on you. I just didn’t want to see you get hurt like that again” Clarissa reveals, looking away as she grips her arm.

”It’s alright, I understand. We all just need to communicate more in the future, yeah?” you say, striding towards Barret and pulling out a health potion for him, which he gratefully takes. Immediately, almost all of the damage he took closes up and disappears.

*Barret’s Health: +10 (39/40)*

You grab a second one from your pack as well and down it, leaving one remaining in case the explorer needs it. Unlike Barret however, you’re still pretty injured afterwards- though it does help a little.

*Herald’s Health: +8 (33/60)*

The four of you look at each other, and there’s an awkward moment of silence before Barret starts chuckling, which causes you and the others to follow up not long after. Seems you all find the whole situation silly in retrospect- but more than that you feel a wave of relief wash over you after telling the group how you felt. Maybe opening up a little isn’t so bad after all.

(1/2)
>>
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Once the moment passes and you all gather yourselves, you take one final look at your team members. ”You all ready to move forward?”

Your friends nod their heads in unison, and the Super Conqueror Bros enter the next room.

The room is almost identical to the last one- bronze vase, bronze chandelier, a stone pedestal a little ways in with some script. There are a couple of differences though. There’s another golem in this room, but it’s standing to the side rather than in front of the door. The door itself too, is different- it has a simple face etched into it. You call it a face, but really it’s a crudely drawn circle with simple eyes and a mouth, as if drawn by a child.

You approach the stone pedestal and place your hand on it, and receive two ideas in turn. The first is that the password is ‘Open’. Weird- so this thing has a password and they just give it to you? How is this a trial? The second idea is that you can also fight the golem by saying the word ‘Golem’. Yeah, you’ll definitely avoid that unless you get desperate.

You let your teammates touch the pedestal and get the same idea before approaching the door. You clear your throat before speaking. ”Open!” you say...but the door doesn’t obey. Instead, you’re surprised to see the eyes move to scan your group.

The crudely drawn mouth moves, and sound comes from the door. ”Ah, it’s been a while since I’ve had visitors! My name is Doortholomew, but you can just call me Door” he says, his mouth turning into a simple smile. ”Your names?”

”Uhh...Herald”

”Jeanne”

”Barret”

”Clarissa. Open, open!” the ranger commands, but Door still doesn’t comply. Isn’t that what the password’s supposed to be?

”Well it’s a pleasure to meet you, Herald, Jeanne, Barret, and Clarissa! Please, tell me about yourselves- it’s been ages since I’ve had company!”

Although Door seems amicable, you’re not quite sure what to do here. It said the password is ‘Open’, but when you or your friends say it, it doesn’t seem to work. Did the password change in some way? Is this a riddle? Are you maybe not the ones who need to say it?

>Write-in (What do you say/do?)
>”Golem!”

(2/2)
>>
>talk with door

"Hello door, nice to meet you! How did you end up here? Have you always been a door? we are adventurers on a rescue mission to find someone who has gone missing. Have you seen him? Perhaps he has... Passed through you? We would like to pass through too as a matter of fact, would you mind opening up for us?"
>>
>>4816262
Use the ring.
>>
>>4816262
>>been ages
Sounds like adventurer hasn't made it here. Or the door forgot his meds.

>"Doortholomew, are you sure you haven't seen anyone passing by recently? Like, a few days ago? Maybe you heard something unusual? Who made you?"
If he doesn't recall anything,
>Tell Clarissa and Barret to go back and try to find adventurer's trace (the chalk), see where he went and return to us

>>4816442
We used it today already.
>>
>>4816411
This
>>
>>4816411
Support
>>
>>4816411
>>4816442
>>4816459
>>4816512
>>4816600
Going with >>4816411 it seems

>>4816459
Who knows? :)

Writing!
>>
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You clear your throat again. ”Hello Door, nice to meet you! How did you end up here? Have you always been a door?” you ask him.

”The pleasure’s all mine! How I ended up here? Hmm...I don’t know!” he casually admits. ”I’ve been here as long as I can remember, and I’ve always been a door” he says. Well, you assume it’s a he based on the way his voice sounds.

”I see. We are adventurers on a rescue mission to find someone who has gone missing. Have you seen him?” you ask.

”Hmm...was it a funny little guy in tan clothing?” the door inquires.

You nod your head. ”That’s him. Wait, I thought you said you hadn’t seen anyone in ages?”

Door chuckles. ”I apologize, I have no way to tell time in this dark room. It all just sort of blends in after a while- I thought it’d been much longer” he confesses. ”Yes, he passed through me some time ago- but I’m not sure how long it’s been now that you mention it.”

”Well, as a matter of fact, we would like to pass through you too. Would you mind opening up for us?”

”Aww, I’m sorry friend, but I’m not supposed to open myself so ea-” he’s interrupted a second or so after saying the word open, his face freezing up as he starts to swing open. It seems all you had to do was get him to say the password- success!


”Nice going, boss man!” Barret cheers, giving you a firm pat on your arm-less shoulder.

”Either Doortholomew was very dumb, or you’re very clever” Jeanne states. ”Regardless, good work Herald.”

You give her a thumbs up. ”I know my way around a conversation, comes with the territory of being a herald and whatnot” you say somewhat proudly, putting a hand on your banner pole for a moment.

The four of you step into the next room, this one slightly larger than the last. A few paintings of strange castles and people you’ve never seen before dart the walls, as well as some more bronze fixtures dotting the room. There’s also, of course, a stone pedestal with some script, a door on the other side, and this time a stone circle big enough for a person to stand on in the center. There’s another golem in front of the door, as well.

Sure enough, you see the explorer in the corner, backpack filled to the brim with things he likely found in the last two rooms, his discoveries already starting to poke out of his pack.

He seems surprised to hear the door open and see the four of you. ”Oh goodness, please don’t hurt me!” he says, putting his hands up and away from the ration he was eating. ”I’m just an archaeologist, a man of science! I don’t have any money, honest!”

”Relax,” Clarissa starts, ”We’re here to save you, dumbass. Your wife and relatives posted up a quest to rescue you.”

(1/2)
>>
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The explorer lets out a deep exhale, relieved to hear you’re not here to beat him up and steal his crap. ”Oh thank goodness, but I’m afraid I can’t leave just yet. Forgive me, but I intend to fully explore this tomb” he tells your group.

You shrug. ”Fine with us, we kinda thought it would be fun too. We want some of the treasure going forward, though” you state.

The explorer nods eagerly. ”Of course of course! I can’t really carry much more at this point, and that’s the original agreement I had posted up at the guild anyhow- fine by me.”

”Perfect. We’re the Super Conqueror Bros, by the way. I’m Herald” you start before introducing him to the rest of the group.

”I see I see- my name’s Henry- Henry Drisdock” he answers, offering a hand to shake yours, which you take firmly.

”So what’s got you stuck in this room? Puzzle too complicated?” you ask.

Henry shakes his head. ”No, it’s not that. I don’t mean to toot my own horn, but I’m quite smart- the other two trials were no challenge for me” he explains. ”This one however...it requires one to face their deepest, darkest fear” he says. ”When you stand on the slab in the center of the room, you’ll be shown horrifying sights. If you can stand your ground, supposedly the door will open- but I’ve never lasted that long. Of course, you can also just say ‘Golem’ while standing on it, but I have a bad feeling that would lead to a confrontation with that scary stone fellow” he says, pointing to the golem in front of the door.

”Haha yeah, who would wanna fight one of those?” Barret says teasingly.

So someone has to face their worst fears, huh? Well, you’re not going to tell Clarissa to go up for obvious reasons- that would be way too traumatic and unfair. That means it’s gonna have to be you, Jeanne, or Barret. Or you could just fight the golem- but you should probably avoid that if possible.

>You’ll go up
>Barret (Switch to Barret)
>Jeanne (Switch to Jeanne)
>”Golem!”
>Other (write in)

(2/2)
>>
I want to know what makes Jeanne tick, she is still a bit of a closed book to us at this point. I think we could uncover useful info

>Jeanne
(But word it in a way that makes her sound like she had volunteered)
>>
>>4816731
>Clarissa (Switch to Clarissa)
>>
>>4816731

>Henry (Switch to Henry)
>>
>>4816764
Stickmin
>>
>>4816731
>You’ll go up
With our visons we are somehow prepared for this quest. We already faced some of our past, and even if it was too much in that moment, i'm sure we can go through this.
>>
>>4816784
visions*
>>
>>4816731
>You’ll go up
Chad like
>>
>>4816731
>You’ll go up
WE CAN DO THIS
>>
>>4816731
>You'll go up TO TRAIN!!!

It looks like there isn't a limit on how many tries you can do so we check it out then lets send Jeanne then Barret
Heck i would rather do many days of mental training in this room to develop resistance to horrors and overcome our heart demons fuck everything we need to CONQUEST OUR FEARS
>>
>>4817092
CONQUER FEAR ITSELF!!!*
>>
>>4816742
>5WRIu6iL
>>4816764
>>4816784
>>4816912
>>4816933
>>4817092
You'll go up

Writing! Also sorry for wait, got distracted doing some stuff
>>
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While your teammates and Henry deliberate with one another about who should take the test, you walk towards the stone slab quietly. By the time your friends and the explorer realize what you’re doing, you’re already on top of it.

”Herald, wai-” Jeanne calls out, but soon your vision goes black as you feel yourself drawn somewhere deep within the recesses of your consciousness…

-

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t2DljHtngWg

When you regain your senses, you’re back in Rathalon, though something isn’t right. All around you the city is burning, flames roaring as you hear citizens screaming and crying over the sounds of rubble falling. You’re on the ground for whatever reason, and start to pick yourself up with a groan, only to feel something squishy on your hand.

When you remove it and look at what you’ve touched, your eyes go wide and your heart beats a million miles a minute. Your hand was in a pile of guts, and looking over the area closely, you realize those guts belong to a brutally murdered Barret.

Immediately you shout in anger and fear, quickly crab crawling backwards, only to bump into something else. Turning around reveals Jeanne’s decapitated head, her face contorted in an expression of horror.

In a state of silent terror, you slowly pick yourself up and scan the town around you, the feeling and the atmosphere all too familiar. It’s just like that night, the night that changed your life forever.

”Ah, so you’ve still got some fight in you?” someone says, a voice you recognize. No...it can’t be-

You wheel around and see Silas standing before you, clutching Clarissa by the throat. Already the ranger’s body has gone pale, blood spurting out of her mouth. A sword is stabbed deep into her gut, which Silas slowly pulls out with his other hand, red liquid spilling out like a tap.

”This...this can’t be happening” you say, trying to remind yourself that this is just an illusion- a part of that test in the tomb. Even knowing that, the sheer vividness of this scene and the repressed emotions it evokes is enough to send you reeling into a mix of dread, fear, hatred, and every other negative thought or feeling you can think of.

”It’s a shame, isn’t it? If only more people understood the truth of this world, then such tragedies would not happen” he muses.

>Attack in a blind rage
>Try to free Clarissa and run away
>”Why? WHY?!”
>Escape, you’re not emotionally strong enough to deal with this (back out of trial)
>Other (write in)
>>
>>4817279
>Do Nothing
Its an illusion, it has no power over us
>>
>>4817279
>"What is this so called truth, Silas? And how does it justify the atrocity you've committed?
>>
>>4817292
>Conquer your body by doing nothing
>Conquer your mind by dominating your rage/fear and focus your killing intent on silas project your mind on this illusion
>>
>>4817331
Challenge Silas on the astral plane inside the illusion to assert our complete dominance
>>
>>4817279
>Do nothing
Clarissa is a shit waifu anyway
>>
>>4817279
>Do Nothing
"You call yourself a conqueror? Fool, I am conquest incarnate."
>>
>>4817279
>>4817300
+1 this--maybe we can get more insight on this dick. At the very least we're facing our fears by trying to understand this dick.
>>
>do nothing

Stay focused, this isn't real, CONQUEST YOUR WORST FEARS!
>>
>>4817435
You seem to be obsessed with dicks famalam
>>
>>4817279
>Do Nothing

We should drink the second potion, now that we know Drisdock is fine.
Offer him 1x Ration tho, he stayed here for days alone.
>>
>>4817292
>>4817300
>>4817331
>>4817336
>>4817346
>>4817366
>>4817435
>>4817519
>>4817552
Do nothing

Given the nature of the emotions these sights and visions are naturally evoking, this is going to take a roll methinks.

Roll me 1d100, I'll take the best of three rolls. You need a 75 or higher to successfully do nothing without reacting instinctively.
>>
Rolled 40 (1d100)

>>4817826
>>
aaaaaa
It's weird that we came here knowing what the challenge is about but treat it like a real situation. Ah well, what is another golem to fight.
>>
Rolled 76 (1d100)

>>4817826
cmon dice please
>>
>>4817833
thank god
>>
It's been an hour with no third roll, so one of you can roll again if you like!
>>
Rolled 26 (1d100)

>>4817860
>>
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In the wake of the devastation before you, all the emotions broiling up from somewhere deep inside, you focus.

You focus on the fact that none of this is real- merely an illusion based on a worst case scenario you fear might happen. Fears were something that could be conquered- this mental trial was nothing you couldn’t handle.

Silas tosses your ranger friend’s corpse to the side, but you don’t even flinch. The more you concentrate, the more you’re able to drive down your fear, anger, and hatred- they are things you can control. You’re in charge here, damn it.

”Staying quiet, are we? Just like you did back in the village? Saying nothing and staring at me with contempt while I slaughtered your family?” the armored man says, approaching slowly. You don’t move, don’t even respond.

”In this world, might makes right. Those who have strength, whether they were born with it or have earned it through trials and tribulations, have the privilege of determining the fate of this world. It’s not the place of the incapable to tell the powerful what they can or cannot do- it is the powerful who lead the meek and allow them to exist” he says, putting the tip of his blade to your plate armor.

”In case you weren’t aware, a worthless cripple is pretty fucking weak!” he shouts, slashing at your body- but surprisingly you don’t feel anything. You’ve been able to touch and interact with things since entering this vision, but his attack doesn’t seem to hurt you. Does that mean you’re starting to exert control over the illusion?

Frustrated, Silas continues to slash away at your body, to no avail.

>Continue to do nothing, until everything fades away
>”You must be lonelier than I. You’re to be pitied”
>Take your weapon and strike him down with ease
>Other (write in)
>>
>>4817890
Everything here is just a figment of our imagination under the influence of strong magic, and we're killing it, so
>Imagine our left hand growing back
>Grab Silas' own sword
>Cut his head off with it
>>
>>4817890
>Continue to do nothing, until everything fades
The idea of Silas just swinging around with no effect is quite funny
>>
>>4817932
+1
Give pretend Silas our best poker face
>>
>>4817890
>>4817932
+1
>>
>>4817901
What if one of our friends is near us trying to wake us up and we cut them?
Too risky
>>
I think there is a deeper meaning to this vision, Silas only holds as much power over as us as we allow him.

If we don't fear him we can beat him!
>>
>>4817932
This, he is nothing
>>
>>4818133
That's why we use imaginary left hand!
>>
>>4817901
>>4817932
>>4818062
>>4818127
>>4818133
>>4818147
>>4818152
>>4818345
Continue to do nothing, until everything fades

Writing!
>>
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Silas continues to slash at your body swing after swing, but you don’t move. You stand there, resolute, as his form seems to grow weaker and smaller each passing second. The flames around you begin to die down. In a desperate bid to catch you off guard, your friends’ dead bodies start wailing and damning you for not saving them, but you pay it no heed- for they are merely illusions.

”You weak, stupid, petulant little child who couldn’t save anyone! What fucking right do you have to still be alive? You should’ve died in those fires!” Silas screams at you, but you remain silent. You have nothing to prove to illusions, no need to indulge them.

Perhaps when you were a child you were weak, but in line with your Master’s teachings, you’ve grown strong. Over time you’ve trained and worked hard to become the man you are now, and you refuse to let even a missing limb keep you down for very long. All men may stumble at one point or another, but you will always, always get back up.

*BOON ACQUIRED! Mentally Resilient*

Mentally Resilient: You’ve conquered your fears, emotions, and trauma numerous times now, and have a mind much stronger than most. You have advantage on rolls against illusions, as well as magic or other things that affect your mind and willpower.

Eventually, the world around you begins to blur, the sounds and feelings growing more and more numb until you snap back to reality all at once.

You look down at your hand, flexing and squeezing your fingers for good measure, letting them dig a little into your flesh. Yup- this is reality.

You look up at the sounds of cracking stone to see the scripts around the golem’s body light up with a bright green hue. For a moment you put a hand on Decimator’s hilt, but relax as you see the creature move to the side of the door before going lifeless again, the color fading away from the scripts.

”You...you did it!” Henry exclaims in disbelief.

Your allies watch as you silently stride towards the door and open it up, revealing a small room with a blue orb embedded into the wall. Carefully, you take it out and hold it in your hand.

”You guys thinking what I’m thinking?”

(1/2)
>>
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Your party and the explorer make it back to the main antechamber, and you approach the large set of double doors with the engraving of the mad wizard. Sure enough, the blue orb fits snugly into the hole on the right side, making a clicking sound as it’s set into place.

”One down, one to go” you announce, to which the other four nod.

”I’m all excited now, boss man! It’s the physical challenges up next, right? Don’t worry guys, we’ll be able to handle this!” he exclaims, slinging an arm around your shoulders and pulling you closer, eliciting some laughter from the girls.

”Yeah, okay doofus. It’s not like we can’t fight either” Clarissa says, putting a hand on her bow for emphasis.

”Hey, we should still be alert,” Jeanne warns, ”just because they’re physical challenges doesn’t mean they’ll all be fights.”

”She’s right” the explorer chimes in. ”Also...I’m not uh, really fit or good in a fight. So, maybe I should…hang back?” he asks.

>”Nah, you’re coming with us” (drag Henry along for the Physical trials)
>”Alright, you can wait here” (let Henry stay in the antechamber)
>”Actually, maybe we should just call it here. Let’s get you back to Rathalon”
>Heal up (Potion, Lesser Heal from Jeanne, or both? If you choose this, pick another option as well to go with it)
>Other (write in)

(2/2)
>>
>>4818399
>”Nah, you’re coming with us” (drag Henry along for the Physical trials)
>>
>>4818399
>”Nah, you’re coming with us” (drag Henry along for the Physical trials)

If we end up in combat he can hang back
>>
>>4818399
>Heal up
Drink that potion already, we're at half health.
>”Alright, you can wait here” (let Henry stay in the antechamber)
He's an overburdened berd with like a knife, and we're supposed to RESCUE him.
>>
>>4818399
>”Alright, you can wait here” (let Henry stay in the antechamber)
>>
>>4818399
>”Nah, you’re coming with us. Don't want you to get kidnapped by some bandits.” (drag Henry along for the Physical trials)
>>
>>4818495
>bandits
>here
he was alone for days and nobody came
>>
>>4818514
Yes but the gods are focused on us for some reason, and plot related shit seems to happen almost 24/7 when we're in the vicinity. There's probably something metaphysical going on. Best not to risk it.
>>
>>4818399
>”Nah, you’re coming with us” (drag Henry along for the Physical trials)
>>4818525
It's a mystery, I think it may be Silas pulling the strings but don't quote me on that.
>>
>>4818405
>>4818410
>>4818417
>>4818483
>>4818532
Bringing Henry along!

FYI, next post is going to be the start of a combat, and since it's getting late and you guys know how I like to do them in session format to get through them quickly, I'm going to save the next post for tomorrow, probably around 9 or 10am CDT. Hope to see you guys there- we always need dice and votes for combat!

Apologies for only 2 updates today, and as always thank you guys for reading and playing A Herald's Journey!
>>
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”Nah, you’re coming with us” you tell Henry, playfully grabbing his shirt collar as you drag him towards the physical trials. The rest of the group sort of shrugs at one another and follows suit.

”O-of course! Yes, I’ll come along! B-but, umm, you’re supposed to p-protect me, right?” he asks.

You nod, eventually letting him go just before you enter the first room for the physical trials. ”Of course. If we get in any fights, you just stay in the back, alright?” you tell him. That seems to be enough to ease his nerves, as he nods in response without further complaint.

The first room you enter is much different than any of the mental trial rooms. First of all, there’s no stone pedestal with script on it to explain what the challenge is supposed to be. Instead, there’s simply a door at the other end.

The walls to your left and right have alcoves carved in them, however, with four wooden coffins on each side. Fair enough- this is a tomb you suppose- or at least you think it is.

”Creepy” Clarissa comments, shivering a little as your group strides forward.

”So, are we supposed to do something here boss man, or-” Barret is interrupted by the sound of one of the wooden coffin lids flying off and clattering to the floor, a skeletal leg sticking up in the air. Soon after it lowers as bony hands grip the sides of the coffin and push out, revealing a skeleton with strange, golden squares on his teeth. Some kind of old jewelry?

As it reaches down to grab a scimitar, you see the other seven coffins quickly follow suit, as eight skeletons in total, each with a scimitar, pop out and start circling your group. The first one has those strange golden squares on their teeth, and another has a gold necklace with a strange insignia around its collarbone- but the rest are just bones and a blade.

”Stay back!” you order, but they don’t seem to understand or care as they raise their blades. Seems like you’ll need to fight your way out of this!

The explorer worms his way into the center of your group as your party surrounds him in a protective stance, readying their weapons.

>Attack
>Use a technique (Which?)
>Do something fancy (What?)
>Give commands (What?)
>Other (write in)

---

30-45 minute rounds for now!
>>
>>4819822
>Other
Ask skeles if they drank plenty of milk before the fight
>>
>>4819834
For the sake of keeping things moving, I'm going to take this as a quip you say while attacking with the others.

Roll me 1d20+5 (+5 for DEX) to hit. You need a 13 or higher.

If you make that, someone roll me 1d10+8 (+7 for STR, +1 for Good Quality) for damage.
>>
Rolled 9 + 5 (1d20 + 5)

>>4819887
This oughta be humerus.
>>
Rolled 9 + 8 (1d10 + 8)

>>4819887
>>4819916
We're gonna RIB them to pieces!
>>
>>4819887
Remember to aim for the joints
>>
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Rolled 16, 12, 12, 12, 6, 4 + 3 = 65 (6d20 + 3)

You give a smug smirk from underneath your helmet. ”Hope you skellies drank plenty of milk before this fight, because I’m gonna RIB you to pieces!” you shout as you slam your sword into the skeleton with the gold jewelry on its teeth, completely obliterating a few of its ribs and the top of its right leg as they turn to dust from the force of the impact.

*Skeleton 1’s Health: -17 (3/20)*

Before the poor bastard even has time to fall over, an arrow pierces into his shoulder, and it's enough to thrust the undead bastard into the ground, his bones shattering into pieces. Yeah, he’s not getting back up.

*Skeleton 1’s Health: -8 (-5/20)*

Jeanne whips out her staff and points it towards another skeleton on the other side of your group’s little circle. ”Firebolt!” she shouts, a dart of flame spearing through two of another bony assailant’s ribs.

*Skeleton 2’s Health: -9 (11/20)*

As it gathers itself, Barret lunges forward and thrusts his blade right in the center of the thing’s skull, shattering it into tiny fragments as the rest of its bones fall into a pile on the ground!

*Skeleton 2’s Health: -16 (-5/20)*

Two of the enemies down and with the explorer still safe in the center of your group, the skeletons make their move! Two of them try to swipe at you, two at Barret, and another each go to swing at Jeanne and Clarissa!

---

Roll 1d20+5 (+5 for DEX) to dodge! First two dice are against you, second two are against Barret, fifth is against Jeanne, sixth is against Clarissa.
>>
Rolled 6 + 5 (1d20 + 5)

>>4819935
We were BONE for this!
>>
Rolled 12 + 5 (1d20 + 5)

>>4819935
>>
Rolled 6, 1 = 7 (2d8)

Rolling for damage against Herald

1d8+0 (+3 for STR, -3 for Plate Armor) x 2
>>
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Your teammates all seem to handle the skeletons well. Barret manages to parry both of his assailants away without moving from his spot so he can keep protecting the explorer, Jeanne does the same with her staff, and Clarissa kicks away her attacker.

You, however, are just barely unable to bring up your sword in time before one of your skeleton attackers slams their scimitar into your armor. It hardly does any damage, maybe a light bruise later.

*Herald’s Health: -1 (32/60)*

However, that weak attack is enough to put your body in a position where the other skeleton can strike and do a little more damage, as it thrusts its scimitar just below your left shoulder pauldron, where your flesh is still tender. Yeah, that one hurt.

*Herald’s Health: -6 (26/60)*

With the initial onslaught dealt with however, your group has an opportunity to take advantage of the situation and get some hits in.

>Attack
>Use a technique (Which?)
>Do something fancy (What?)
>Give commands (What?)
>Other (write in)

---

Another 30-45 minute round
>>
>>4819983
Attack
>>
>>4819992
Alright, roll me 1d20+5 (+5 for DEX) to hit! Need a 13 or higher.

If you make it, 1d10+8 (+7 for STR, +1 for Good Quality).
>>
Rolled 15 + 5 (1d20 + 5)

>>4820020
>>
Rolled 5 + 8 (1d10 + 8)

>>4820024
>>
>attack
Prioritize the skeletons with the jewelry/gold teeth
>>
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Rolled 2, 8, 8, 19 + 3 = 40 (4d20 + 3)

You’ve already dealt with the skeleton that’s got jewelry on its teeth, so this time you aim for the one with the gold necklace. Hey, if you have no qualms with desecrating the dead, maybe you could grab these things after the fight and sell them later!

You slash at the monster with your sword, knocking several of its ribs out of place as it staggers backwards from the impact!

*Skeleton 3’s Health: -13 (7/20)*

Jeanne quickly follows up on your attack with a firebolt of her own, singing its throat as the skeleton collapses to the ground in another pile of bones. Seems these things aren’t too tough individually- probably meant to overwhelm someone with sheer numbers.

*Skeleton 3’s Health: -10 (-3/20)*

Clarissa manages to land a solid shot at a fourth bony bastard’s sternum, cracks running along it from the impact of her arrow.

*Skeleton 4’s Health: -14 (6/20)*

Just as Clarissa sets up the pin, Barret goes to knock it down- severing the attacker’s head from its body and finishing it off!

*Skeleton 4’s health: -11 (-5/20)*

There are only half as many skeletons as there were originally, but they don’t seem scared or hesitant. From what little you’ve heard about undead, you know they aren’t really the same people they were in life- just husks of their former selves. They probably were created with a single goal in mind- to attack people who enter this room.

Each skeleton spreads out and attacks one of your party members, yourself included- in a last ditch attempt to take your group down!

---

Roll 1d20+5 (+5 for DEX) to dodge! First die is against you, second against Barret, third against Jeanne, fourth against Clarissa.
>>
Rolled 9 + 5 (1d20 + 5)

>>4820052
>>
Rolled 1 + 2 (1d8 + 2)

Rolling damage against Clarissa

1d8+2 (+3 for STR, -1 for Leather Armor)
>>
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This time, you’re easily able to parry your attacker’s blow, even sending the skeleton a few steps backwards as you ready yourself to strike back.

Once more, Jeanne and Barret are able to repel their assailants as well. ”These guys aren’t so tough!” the latter calls out.

This time however, the skeleton attacking Clarissa dodges her kick and manages to slash at her arm. She yelps in pain and takes a few steps back, bumping into the explorer, but is otherwise fine.

*Clarissa’s Health: -3 (27/30)*

”Bony bastard…” she snarls.

>Attack
>Use a technique (Which?)
>Do something fancy (What?)
>Give commands (What?)
>Other (write in)

---

30 minute round!
>>
>>4820074
>Attack
"Boy am I glad we trained enough that our bones are stronger than theirs!"
>>
>>4820074
Have the group form up close and attack--you can all take these guys out together!
>>
>>4820074
>Attack
continue pressing on its almost over
>>
>>4820086
>>4820097 (This would've been neat if the votes had leaned this way)
>>4820101

Alright, roll me 1d20+5 (+5 for DEX) to hit, need a 13 or higher.

If you make it, 1d10+8 (+7 for STR, +1 for Good Quality) for damage, y'all know the drill by now!
>>
Rolled 5 + 5 (1d20 + 5)

>>4820112
>>
Rolled 17 (1d20)

>>4820112
>>
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Rolled 3, 14, 3 + 3 = 23 (3d20 + 3)

Despite their smaller numbers, they seem to be reacting better to the way you and your team fight now. You go after the skeleton in front of you with Decimator, but it dodges out of the way just in time, your blade making a wooshing sound as it meets nothing but air.

Similarly, Jeanne’s firebolt goes wide and slams into one of the coffins, lighting it ablaze. She cringes a little at that- guilt over desecrating a grave? Oh well, your team doesn’t have time to worry about the little details.

Thankfully, Barret and Clarissa are still on the ball. Once more, Clarissa launches an arrow at an incoming skeleton, striking it square in one of the legs and causing it to stumble.

*Skeleton 5’s Health: -12 (8/20)*

This leaves just enough room for Barret to swoop in and smack the bastard with his longsword, knocking its skull clean off as it collapses lifeless to the floor.

*Skeleton 5’s Health: -9 (-1/20)*

In order to follow up, however, Barret removed himself from the group’s formation a little, and the two skeletons on that side capitalize on that opportunity, both lunging towards him. The skeleton on your side tries to swat at you again with its scimitar!

---

Roll 1d20+5 (+5 for DEX) to dodge! First dice is against you, second and third against Barret.
>>
Rolled 16 + 5 (1d20 + 5)

>>4820130
>>
Rolled 6 + 1 (1d8 + 1)

Rolling damage against Barret

1d8+1 (+3 for STR, -2 for Chainmail)
>>
We should collect all the bones with gold and/or engravings
>>
>>4820178
Btw i mean collecting the whole bones not breaking them to take out the gold
>>
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You swat away your attacker’s scimitar with ease, continuing to push the assailant back as it tries to land a hit on you.

Barret, for his part, manages to parry one of the skeleton’s strikes, but the other hits him square in the back. His chainmail keeps any blood from being drawn, but you hear him grimace as he staggers forward a little from the force of the blow. For being all bones, these things sure pack a punch!

*Barret’s Health: -7 (32/40)*

”I think we might be able to finish them all off if we try that technique, boss man” Barret says, chancing a glance your way.

”It didn’t work before!” you call out in response.

”Yeah, but that was against Trawn. These guys? It’ll be no problem!”

”What the hell are you two talking about?” Clarissa asks.

>Fuck it, Cross Slash!
>Attack
>Use a technique (Which?)
>Do something fancy (What?)
>Give commands (What?)
>Other (write in)

---

Hate to do this mid-combat, but need to attend to some stuff. Should hopefully be back ~4:30PM CDT (9:30PM UTC) to finish things up. Apologies!
>>
>>4820197
Lets try
>Fuck it, Gross Slash!
>>
>>4820197
>Fuck it, Cross Slash!
>>
>>4820197
>Fuck it, Cross Slash!
>>
Alright, roll me 3 separate d100s to see how epic style your cross slash is! Taking the best of three rolls.

If there aren't three rolls an hour after this post has gone up, someone can roll again.
>>
>cross slash represeeeeeeent!
>>
Rolled 12 (1d100)

>>4820471
I'm getting a little.... CROSSSSSSSSSSSSS
>>
Rolled 89 (1d100)

>>4820471
GROSSS SLASH!!!
>>
Rolled 44 (1d100)

>>4820471
>>
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*Total roll: 89*

”Alright, fuck it- let’s do this” you tell him.

”Do what?” Jeanne asks, still confused by what the hell you and Barret are talking about.

”Listen! Jeanne, I need you to knock your skeleton towards the one next to Barret. Clarissa, you do the same. Trust me on this, it’s gonna be super cool!” you tell them.

The girls still seem confused, but oblige nevertheless. Jeanne slams her staff into the skeleton’s side with surprising force, knocking it a good distance towards Barret’s. Damn, the training must be paying off! Clarissa does the same, though she kicks her opponent.

Once the three skeletons are gathered up, you and Barret look at each other for a brief moment and nod.

”CROSS SLASH” ”CROSS SLASH”

Both shouting, the two of you charge towards the mass of skeletons, slashing your swords in a large, diagonal cross, barely missing each other’s blades as you form a large ‘X’ between the group. A second or two later, the bones collapse into piles of dust, your enemies finally vanquished.

You and the fighter high five each other epic style as the rest of your group lets out a collective sigh of relief.


”That was horrifying the explorer starts, ”but also quite exciting. Your group is certainly capable!”

”Course we are. We’re bronze-rank adventurers, we’ve done some crazy shit” you inform him as you assess the situation. The door to the next room is unguarded now- you could move on to the next trial right away.

Of course, it also might be prudent to heal up. You’re starting to feel your injuries now. You’ve still got a potion left, and Jeanne’s got a spell slot she can use to heal you, if needed. There’s also the matter of the treasure- gold jewelry on the teeth of a mostly destroyed skeleton, and a gold necklace lying in a pile of bone dust. You could probably sell them for some cash, but it would be stealing from the dead.

>Just move on to the next room
>Heal up (Potion, spell, or both? For you or someone else?)
>Grab the gold. Free money!
>Other (write in)
>>
>>4820647
I say that if we grab the Gold, that's going to be so when we go back to Rathalon, offer them to the God of Death or something that if I recall it does exist. One anon said that we should try and make him a offering with the Behelith, but because all the crazy shit that happened, making offerings and receiving boons and blessings from other Gods that would look shitty and suspicious.

So yeah, take the gold teeth and the necklace, give it as an offering to the God of Death in Rathalon, and maybe find an answer to what happened with our homie Castor
>>
>>4820647
that gold is probably cursed or some shit
pass, we're fine on the money end
>>
Rolled 18 (1d100)

>>4820684
I support this also what if it is part of a set?
Also they were undeads, they were already desecrated by whoever made the tomb/ruin
I say that we grab gold and some bones of each skelebro to either complete the set with whatever is on the other rooms or offer it to any God that wants undead to stay dead

>Grab gold and some bones for definitely not something bad
>>
>>4820743
Also we should drink the potion
>>
>>4820647
+1 to >>4820743
plan to offer the gold to the God of Death back in Rathalon
anybody calls us out for stealing from the dead, tell them the skeletons were undead and they were already desecrated by whoever made the tomb/ruin
in a way, us offering this bling to the God of Death is merely us returning them to where they belong properly, and if they're cursed then not only does that get us free of any curse while they're in our possession, but the God of Death should logically be somebody that has enough power over that to break the curses when he accepts the offerings
for the bones, it would be for any deity that is directly opposed to the idea of the undead existing, kind of like how Castor was directly opposed to the idea of goblins existing
>>
>>4820754
Maybe we should collect some unique bones from each like the sternum or the cranium for the offering
Also we should confirm wich god/s favors/opposes undeads to make sure we don't make any of them angry and if there is no god that would approve of that offering we apologize and do some sacred burial to them
>>
Got work early in the morning tomorrow so I think I'll call it here for the night.

Tomorrow will be somewhat busy but I'll try to get some updates out as best I can. Apologies they've been coming out less- I swear it's not for lack of motivation, last semester of college is just kicking my ass.

As always, thanks for reading and playing A Herald's Journey!
>>
>>4820647
Pass on the gold. Heal up and move out.
>>
>>4820647
>Grab the gold. Free money!
>>
>take the gold to leave as an offering to the god of death

>Herald take a healing potion
>>
>>4820684
>>4820694
>>4820743
>>4820753
>>4820754
>>4820782
>>4821102
>>4821475
>>4821563
I'm seeing grab the gold as well as drink the last potion, but are you also taking some bones as well? I'll leave it up to a 30 minute vote

>Yes, give me dem bones
>No, that's weird

Also, someone roll me 2d4+2 for the health potion!
>>
>>4822296
>No.
>>
>>4822301
No

Writing!
>>
Rolled 4, 4 + 2 = 10 (2d4 + 2)

>>4822296
Boom
>>
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You grab the last health potion from your bag of holding, popping the cork and guzzling down the magical liquid, which tastes somewhat tart. The wounds and bruises on your body start to heal, fading away or stitching back together. There’s still plenty of damage left, but you feel noticeably better.

*Herald’s Health: +10 (36/60)*

After that, you start prying the gold jewelry on one of the skeleton’s teeth off, one by one. It takes a little bit of force, but you’re strong enough to do it with just your hand, which makes things easier. Barret walks over to you, looking somewhat concerned.

”What, you gonna get on my case for stealing from the dead?” you preemptively ask.

”Huh? Oh, no- not if the dead are gonna attack us” he says, though you’re not entirely convinced he’s all about your corpse looting. ”That aside, aren’t you worried it might be...cursed?” he asks.

’Cursed? Why the hell would someone curse their jewelry?” you fire back. Curses are fairly rare- usually only doled out by the Gods, the fae, and really powerful wizards. Typically they’re used as a punishment- placed on someone for retribution. For the fae, it’d be spiting them. For Gods? Being wicked or overtly blasphemous. For powerful enough wizards? Pissing them off. You can’t deny that someone might use a curse as a trap, but it would be very strange for someone or something to leave behind such a powerful magical effect over mere jewelry.

”I don’t know, you can never be too careful. This is some scary wizard’s tomb, right?” he says. Make that another thing you’ve learned about Barret- he’s a little paranoid when it comes to magic stuff. Or maybe he’s being practical and you’re being reckless- hard to say.

”Fine, more money for me then~” you answer with a wry grin, unfortunately hidden underneath your helmet, as you stash the loot in your bag of holding.

”Are we ready to move on now?” the explorer asks, fidgeting. ”I want to see what’s behind those doors back in the antechamber!”

”Probably a dead body, duh” Clarissa comments.

(1/2)
>>
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With the loot gathered, your potion downed, and your group more or less ready to continue, you push open the door and enter the room to the next obstacle.

Inside is some sort of strange contraption- a large, cylindrical shaped device with varying labels jutting out from its sides, complete with a bell on top. At the bottom of the device is a large, circle pad, and beside it is an intricately designed bronze mallet.

The door is at the other end of the room, and a quick try from Jeanne shows it’s locked. In front of the contraption is another stone pedestal, which upon touching presents the idea that you must ring the bell to continue.

Taking a closer look at the device, you read over the labels and numbers from bottom to top, the last one perched above the bell.

1-2: Pathetic
3-4: Scrawny
5-6: Wimpy
7-8: Average
9-10: Tough Guy
11-12: Orc
13-14: Giga Chad
15+: Legendary Hero!

”Looks like some test of strength, maybe?” Jeanne hazards, standing next to the mallet. ”I assume you use this and hit the pad, which makes this she says, pointing to a steel ball at the bottom of the contraption that you missed at first, ”go upwards. The bell needs to be rung for the door to open- seems simple enough.”

>”Alright, step aside” (Take a swing at it)
>”Hmm, maybe ___ could give it a try?” (Who?)
>Try something else… (What?)

(2/2)
>>
>>4822405
>”Alright, step aside” (Take a swing at it)

What fun! Let's give it a shot first! The others can give it a whirl afterwards.
>>
Rolled 18 (1d20)

>>4822405
>>”Alright, step aside” (Take a swing at it)
I'm gonna roll a 1 and there's nothing you can do about it.
>>
>>4822405
>”Hmm, maybe Henry could give it a try?”
>>
>>4822405
>”Alright, step aside” (Take a swing at it)
>>4822426
preemptive good roll, nice!
>>
>>4822405
>Alright, step aside” (Take a swing at it)
>>
>>4822415
>>4822426
>>4822428
>>4822595
>>4822655
Roll me 1d8+7 (+7 for STR) to see your score!
>>
Rolled 8 + 7 (1d8 + 7)

>>4822745
Watch THIS
>>
>>4822748
Holy shit
>>
>>4822760
Anything is possible with CONQUEST, anon.
>>
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Perhaps there was something more to this puzzle. The pedestal just said you had to ring the bell- that likely meant you could just throw something at the bell itself and be on your way. There was a chance this machine was rigged, designed to never let anyone hit the maximum score.

You simply don’t care.

You take the bronze mallet in your hand, hefting it up and down a little to test the weight. Yeah, this’ll do.

With an overhead strike, you send the ball surging up the contraption at incredible speeds, striking the bell in less than a second as an loud ringing noise resonates through the room. Oh yeah, you’re a Legendary Hero, baby.

You hear a click from the other door.

”Hot damn, guess those muscles aren’t just for show after all” your ranger friend quips as you pretend to blow smoke off the mallet before tossing it to the ground.

You push the door, and it swings open without issue- showing a much scarier sight.

The next room has three large axes, swinging from the ceiling, back and forth along the room at inconsistent speeds. You suspect there’s some sort of magic or machinist work at play that lets them speed up out of nowhere, but nevertheless it’s daunting.


On the other side is the door, presumably leading to the other orb- assuming the trial of the body had as many rooms as the trial of the mind.

On the wall next to the door is a lever of some sort. Perhaps it’ll stop the axes?

>Fuck it, try to dash through the axes
>Get low to the ground and try to crawl underneath. If you’re really careful, you can probably avoid getting sliced
>Press yourself against the far wall. If you scooch along that, there’s a lot less area the axes have to hit you with- could be safer.
>Other (write in)
>>
>>4822779
Can we inspect the lever first?
>>
>>4822779
>Other:
Is the switch UP or DOWN? Maybe we could hit it with an arrow or something? If it's DOWN then I'll vote for

>Press yourself against the far wall.
>>
>>4822797
Unfortunately not because it's on the other side of the room- you'd have to get through the blades.

If you get over there though, you don't have to pull it right away and could inspect it.
>>
>>4822800
The lever on the far end of the hall by the door is a cylinder if wood attached to two thin metal things that needs to be yanked down.
>>
>>4822815
another question, sorry
Are the axes swinging from chains? Can we melt the chains with a firebolt?
>>
>>4822823
They are indeed hanging from chains, but a firebolt probably wouldn't generate enough heat with how little time itd spend connected to the chain before dispersing to melt it, if that makes sense.
>>
>>4822838
Alright, my vote goes to the far wall then.
>>
>>4822779
Is that a button on the middle axe? If it is a button can we have Clarissa shot arrows at it
>>
>>4822937
Yes and yes!

Feeling a bit tired- may close vote and update in a bit. If not though I'll resume tomorrow morning.
>>
>>4822800
>>4822937
Ooh, change my vote to SHOOT BUTTON then!
>>
The first test was combat followed by raw strength and now its accuracy and agility/dexterity
Sounds good
>>
>>4822937
this
>>
>>4822937
Let's try this before we risk getting cut in half. I want to see if Clarissas target practice will pay off
>>
>>4822937
+1 that's how third person game puzzles work
>>
>>4822849
>>4822937
>>4822949
>>4822998
>>4823549
>>4823785
Hit the button Good eye!

Will start writing in a bit! Apologies about the delay, had to run an errand. Tried to post a warning from mobile but the IP I was getting from my mobile data was apparently banned, rip.
>>
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Taking in the scene, you notice something sticking out a little on the second axe. You put your hand up in a gesture to silence the group before pointing at it. ”Over there. What’s that?”

It’s hard to make out since the axes keep swinging at irregular speeds and it's relatively small, but Jeanne’s eyes widen a fraction as a realization hits her. ”Looks like a button of some kind. Maybe whoever built this thing put it there as an emergency stop?” she hazards.

”Good enough for me. Clarissa, can you hit it?”

”Yeah” the ranger responds, straight to the point. She takes out her bow and notches an arrow, pulling back on the string as she concentrates, timing the shot. After a few seconds, she releases the arrow, which just barely manages to connect with the button. A few seconds pass as the axes slowly lose momentum before stopping entirely, hanging limp from the ceiling.

Carefully, you walk across the room, making sure to speed up anytime you’re in an area where the axes were swinging before, and reach the other side. You give a quick thumbs-up to the others. ”All good over here!”

>Open the door and get a move on
>Wait for the others to cross first
>Pull the lever, for good measure
>Other (write in)
>>
>>4824081
>Open the door and get a move on
>>
>>4824081
Wait near the lever and watch the axes, if they start moving again we warn everyone to stay away fron their path and pull the lever
i hope we dont kill anyone[\spoiler]
>>
>>4824081
>Wait for the others to cross first
>>
>wait for the others to cross

There may be more to this test and we don't want to be stranded if the axes start up again!
>>
>>4824133
Support
>>
>>4805449

Didn’t we defeat you earlier already?
>>
Rolled 1 (1d2)

>>4824105
>>4824133
>>4824244
>>4824303
>>4824513

1: Wait near the lever for axes to move before pulling lever
2: Wait for others to cross.

Writing!
>>
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”Hold on” you tell your group, waiting as you observe the axes. The others comply, standing quietly at the other end.

About a minute after the button was first hit by the arrow, the axes begin swinging again. ”Seems like they only stay off for a little while” Jeanne calls out to you. ”We can hit it again when you grab the orb” she offers.

You smirk from underneath your helmet. ”No need, this thing’s done for” you say smugly, pulling down on the lever. Immediately, the axes begin to swing exponentially faster, moving so quickly that you doubt anyone could run through them without perfect timing.

”Shit, that must’ve been a trick- hang on!” you shout to your teammates, but you find the lever won’t budge anymore- you can’t pull it back up. ”Fuck… fuck you curse, frustrated that you did that despite already knowing how to handle the damn things.

At the very least, you open the door nearby and sure enough find the red orb- the last piece you need to open the doors. The question is how the hell you’re going to get back to your team.

”Y-you could throw us the orb!” the explorer calls out weakly.


”And leave our leader behind? Fuck you, nerd” Clarissa answers, glaring at the little guy.

”N-no, of course not- I’m not so coldhearted! I just figured there may be a way to stop these axes inside the main chamber” he says.

”Nah, just let me shoot at it- I can probably hit the button again!” Clarissa offers.

”Maybe, but you could lose most or all of your arrows in the process- they’ll probably get torn to shreds by those things now that they’re moving so quickly” Jeanne surmises.

>Roll the orb to them, they’ll figure something out...hopefully
>Get Clarissa to try and fire shots at the button again
>Fuck it- you can take this trap! (Try to time it perfectly and make it through)
>Other (write in)
>>
>>4824870
>Roll the orb to them, they’ll figure something out...hopefully
We've got time. We can trust our friends.
>>
>>4824870
Can Jeanne use firebolt on the button without destroying it? If not we better roll them that orb and hope for the best, something tells me that this ain't over and we are going to need Clarissas arrows
>>
>>4824870
>Fuck it- you can take this trap! (Try to time it perfectly and make it through)
Fuck it, we'll do it live.
>>
>>4824933
That's risky. I think we should let them handle it.

>>4824936
We aren't at full health, that seems like a good way to lose another limb.
>>
>>4824967
We are in a full plate armor, anon. I think the worst that could happen is a bludgeoning damage.
But that will be easily absorbed by our massive balls of steel.
>>
Ok for someone to be in position to press the button they would only need to pass one axe and then they would only need to time it right and press the button, pressing the button shouldn't be too difficult or risky if you don't push further than the button is positioned, like touching a fan

Clarissa with her 7 Dex/agi should be able to do it if she takes her time to get the timing right and then use a stick arrow or whatever to try and click the button

>let Clarissa pass one axe then press the button again then scape asap
>>
>>4824976
That's why I think we should wait. Best case scenario they find a solution, worst case scenario we have to try to escape, mid case scenario we get to heal a little before we make an attempt.
>>
>>4824870
>Roll the orb to them, they’ll figure something out...hopefully

For a relatively normal quest, there is some major retardation here
>>
>>4825015
>>4824870
>>
>>4825021
>retardation
it's an option we can choose
more interesting than waiting for them to solve some more puzzles
>>
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>>4824870
Just let dumbrissa try to shoot the button, if he misses all the shots then just throw the arrows back at her like in pic related
>>
>>4825071
>two arms
Too soon
>>
>>4825071
If there's no free space in the ceiling still try to throw the arrows back at her but mind that they don't get sliced by the blades
>>
>>4825097
What if we just slid them really hard across the ground?
>>
>>4825092
Tfw we regrow our arm to make clarissa shoot better
>>
>>4825113
For some reason you made me think of beyblades
>>
>>4825113
That could work, +1
>>
>>4825071
If we are trying to be bright then we should confirm if the axes go inside the walls and floor or they pass just near both, if they dont go inside, then there should be enough space to crawl on the corners without risk at all
If not still just getting to the wall and waiting for the axe to go up then down on to that wall should give us enough time no matter how fast they are moving
I doubt those big axes can croos the room and back faster than we can we can give one big step
>>
>>4825117
>tfw soul burns with such rage the world briefly forgets we're missing an arm
>the second we stop raging, we realize we have our arm back
>the world notices and takes it away
>tfw only one arm left
>>
>>4825128
>tfw we need to be constantly livid to use our second arm
>>
>>4824897
>>4825113

Just to clarify, are you sticking with roll orb vote or going with the throw arrows back overhead vote?

>>4825097

There is indeed space overhead. If an arrow manages to not get obliterated by the axes and sails over to your side, you could toss them overhead just fine- though with the speed they're moving most of them will likely get destroyed. The creativity definitely buys you better odds on the dice though should you go this route

>>4825117
>>4825145

In your dreams lmao
>>
>>4825147
I think we should roll an orb but if we do go with the arrow plan, I think we should try sliding them like anon said.

>>>In your dreams lmao
>demanding herculean effort to regrow limb
B A S E D O
A
S
E
D
O
>>
As of now, if I'm reading right, I see 3 for roll the orb, 2 for arrow sliding/tossing plan, 1 for have clarissa cross an axe and then try to aim, 1 for taking the trap.

Tallying this for now more for my sake since there's a lot of discussion atm and don't wanna lose track. I'll keep the vote up another hour and update based on the final results.
>>
>>4825150
We need to regrow our arm to get out of the trap
>>
>>4824870
Toss the arrow back.
>>
Rolled 2 (1d2)

>>4824897
>>4824933
>>4824936
>>4825015
>>4825021
>>4825071
>>4825122
>>4825223
1: Roll the orb to your team
2: Have Clarissa try to get the button with the arrows- toss back arrows that survive

If it lands on 2, roll me three separate 1d100s, taking the best of the rolls.

1-25: Clarissa fails, all arrows are destroyed.
26-50: Succeeds, 3/4 of arrows are destroyed
51-75: Succeeds, only 1/2 of arrows are destroyed
76-89: Succeeds, only 1/4 of arrows are destroyed
90+: Get the button on the first try, no arrows lost.

If it lands on 1, then writing!
>>
Rolled 89 (1d100)

>>4825296
>>
Rolled 23 (1d100)

>>4825296
Here we GOOOOOO
>>
>>4825306
>>4825344
It's been long enough, one of you can reroll if you like
>>
Rolled 22 (1d100)

>>4825423
>>
>>4825296
Rolling because why not
>>
Rolled 95 (1d100)

>>4825439
Shame on me
>>
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”Clarissa, try and hit the button again!” you shout. ”You’ve got this- I’ll help out too.”

Nodding, she draws her bow and fires an arrow, which unfortunately gets smashed to pieces by the first axe. She notches a second and lets it loose- this time flying through all three axes and landing over by you.

Stashing the red orb in your bag of holding for now, you crouch down and grab the arrow, sliding it across the room underneath the axes’ range until it reaches Clarissa, who gratefully picks it up. A small smirk appears on her face- ”So I get a few extra tries?”

You give her a thumbs up as the process continues- her firing arrows, some of them getting smashed, and others being tossed back by you.

With your help, she only loses six arrows before finally nailing the red button again, the axes slowing to a stop until they’re completely still. Drawing the red orb back out of your bag, you dart across the room back to your teammates, letting out a sigh of relief after you reach them safely.

”Good job” you tell the ranger after taking a moment to catch your breath. She puts the bow on her back as the others get closer to take a look at the red orb.

”So we just stick this thing in the door and it’ll open up?” Barret asks.

”Yes, that should do the trick” Henry replies. ”Then we can finally see what this place is really hiding!” The explorer’s excitement is clearly written all over his face- like a child about to open a birthday present.

As your group makes their way back to the antechamber, Jeanne takes a moment to get next to you for a quick conversation. ”You worried at all about what might be behind there?” she asks.

”Didn’t Clarissa cover this earlier? It’s probably just a dead body” you answer. ”Maybe some crazy treasure or magic items too, if we’re lucky.”

Or it could be a trap and we get mauled by a golem or hit with a fireball” she retorts.

”Come on, you really think this place would have someone go through all those obstacles and get these” you say, holding up the red orb for emphasis, ”just to kill someone?”

She lets out a sigh. ”Maybe you’re right, I just can’t help but worry.”

Eventually you arrive back at the large double doors, the blue circle still pressed above the illustration of the wizard’s right hand. You approach the alcove above the left hand, taking a deep breath before pushing the red orb in.

You and your companions take a few steps and examine the double doors. For the first few seconds, everything is completely silent. The air is still- only the faint scent of death and decay occupying your senses. After a few moments that feel like an eternity, the orbs begin to glow, and the large doors slowly start pushing open towards your group.

(1/2)
>>
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The light from Jeanne’s staff leaks into the room, revealing a large chamber with various jars, statues, and pieces of art lying around- walls covered in scripts from floor to ceiling. At the center of it all is a stone coffin, the lid in pieces on the ground, surrounded by broken chains covered in scripts.

Standing in front of the coffin is the emaciated form of an older man- body worn from age and what looks like hunger. His chest heaves slightly to indicate breathing- the only sign of life coming off his body.

That is, until he turns to face your group.

His long, white beard trails almost all the way down to the floor. He’s wearing what you assume was once a robe, now stained a dark, damp blue- tattered, riddled with holes and tears. His most noticeable feature, however, is that the sclera of his eyes are black- just like Bubby’s. He gives you a wide, toothy grin.

”Ahh, my saviors~” he croaks, his voice strained with age. He takes a few steps towards your party, and you immediately feel a desire to draw your blade or run- your instincts telling you this old, decrepit looking man is a threat unlike any other you’ve ever faced. In preparation, you quickly place a hand on the hilt of your blade, Barret following suit.

”What do you want?” you ask, holding your ground.

The elderly figure takes a few more steps forward before stopping just in front of you. ”What I want? Why, you’ve already given it to me” he says, gesturing slightly with his head towards the opened double doors. ”I’m free now. As for you, I owe you a debt of gratitude. What is it that you desire, young man?” he asks.

His words give you pause for a moment. This is similar to what Bubby offered you before, except you’re not expected to give up anything in return. On the other hand though, do you really want a demon’s aid? You’re not sure what unintended consequences may come with a gift from a demon- or what the Gods would do if they found out.

The rest of the group turns their eyes towards you, waiting to see what you’ll say. They seem either too scared or too confused to really speak up, though Barret’s clearly ready to strike out at any moment. You can see the beads of sweat forming on his forehead- fear, nervousness?

>”Who are you?”
>”Some money would be nice”
>”Can I have a cool weapon?”
>”I’d like a boon of some sort- an ability I can use”
>”I’d like my left arm back”
>”No, I’m alright” Taking anything from a demon sounds like bad news
>”Yeah, your HEAD!” (Attack)
>Other (write in)\

---

Pick one

(2/2)
>>
>>4825500
>”Who are you?”
>>
>>4825500
>”Who are you?”
If this is that DINGUS Bubby again in another form I'm gonna be steamed!
>>
>>4825500
>could you please swear to enjoy your freedom without hurting/tormenting/killing/kidnaping or doing anything evil to sapient beings (if he refuses ask to at least spare those that don't do evil)
Say this with polite words and all your charisma and hope injected to your words :)
>>
>>4825500
>"Who are you? I'd like my arm back, but you're giving me some sketchy vibes, brah."
>>
>>4825500
never ever trust a coffin wizard
ask who he is first
>>
>>4825775
That's what my grandpa always told me so I'm going with this too

>Who are you? How did you become trapped here?
>>
>>4825500
>”I’d like my left arm back”
>>
Ask who he is. I think we shouldn’t accept this from him. Our arm isn’t worth association with a demon. We don’t know enough about them to play around.
>>
If this guy gives us our arm back I think it will be cursed and we will wake up every night punching ourselves in the cock
>>
>>4825500
>”Who are you?”
Information should be free
>>
>>4825542
>>4825603
>>4825699
>>4825753
>>4825775
>>4825794
>>4825861
>>4826029
>>4826156
Who are you?

Writing!
>>
>>4826214
Please let it be a freebie
>>
>>4826214
what >>4826218 said
>>
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”Who are you?” you ask.

”Ah, so it’s information you want? So wasteful- I thought you would’ve asked for something more interesting...like getting back that missing arm of yours” he says, raising a bony finger towards your stump limb. ”Very well though, I shall answer your question in good faith, since you’ve freed me. First and foremost, where is the emperor?” he asks.

”Emperor?” you inquire. You don’t know anyone that goes by that title.

”Of the Regalian empire?” he continues.

Unsure what the hell he’s talking about, you turn to Jeanne, but she just shrugs- seems she doesn’t know what he’s on about either. ”None of us are familiar with the place you speak of” you tell him.

He lets out a quiet, strained chuckle. ”Ahh, how long has it been that the empire’s faded even from memory? Centuries? No, no...millenia, then? Forgive me, I find it quite humorous that despite their best efforts to seal me here that I’ve outlived them” he explains.

Wait, this guy’s lived for thousands of years…?

”Right, your question. My name is Faust, Archmage of Ruin” he says, giving you a slight bow. ”I do as I wish. Stay out of my way and no harm shall befall you” he says with a wicked grin as he starts to walk past you and your group, making his way towards the stairs.

>”Wait, can I still ask for something else?” (What?)
>”What are your plans?”
>”I’m sorry, but I can’t just let a demon go free” (Attack) (DANGEROUS)
>Other (write in)
>>
>>4826225
>”I’m sorry, but I can’t just let a demon go free” (Attack)
>>
>>4826225
>Other (write in)
"Well fuck. Can I still get my arm back? I just wanted to get to know you before I asked anything of you."
>>
>What is it that you desire, young man?
Your name
>Faust, Archmage of Ruin
Wait ackshually wasn't my queshtion
>>
>>4826225
>"Who built this place? What happened in the past that got you to this point? And what are your plans now?"
Info is crucial here
>>
>>4826313
Backing this
>>
>>4826329
I would bring up the behelits, but he'd probably try to kill Herald and seize both for himself. This guy's powerlevel is beyond ours right now. I say we just learn what we can and keep him in mind as a threat for later.
>>
Dammit you all wasted it asking stupid questions
>>
>>4826440
Nothing good can come of us having him fix our arm or provide us with anything. Any ability he gives us will be cursed. Any item he creates for us on the spot will be cursed. Only information is safe for us to receive from him. Do you not understand that?
>>
>>4826445
You don't know that.
And any hand is better than no hand!
>>
>>4826460
>>4826445
Imagine a tentacle arm, we could make friends with it and play games with it. Maybe spar?
>>
>>4826463
We lost that chance because of absurdly stupid votes.
>>
I feel like we could've gotten an arm, no strings attached, and passed any nefariousness off as us being naive without any long-term complications. Now we have a name though. Maybe that librarian will know how badly we've deus ex machina'd the continent.
>>
>>4826559
I say the culprit was henry and only him, its his fault we came here
>>
Easy come easy go, we can still work our way towards a working prosthetic!

Also I was thinking, what if we attached a hook to the side of our shoulder armour that our shield could hook into?
>>
>>4826225
>>4826313
+1 this--no need to rush into a scrap yet
>>
>>4826460
>My name is Faust, Archmage of Ruin
>Archmage of Ruin
>Ruin

Yeah... We don't know that... Surely that guy could come with something beneficial to us
>>
>>4826225
>>4826313
this
>>
>>4826755
Oh what if we apologize and ask him that what we really wanted is that if he ever meets a fellow called silas, he ruins him
>>
>>4826791
No amount of info can unfuck what we fucked right now

>>4826225

I say we try to make him clash with silas, we saved him so asking him to ruin someone should be fair, we apologize for the misunderstanding and ask him to ruin silas
>>
>>4826264
>>4826284
>>4826313
>>4826329
>>4826643
>>4826791
>>4826838
"Who built this place? What happened in the past that got you to this point? And what are your plans now?"

Writing! Sorry for delay, things have been hella busy. Gonna say right now, posting will be sparse to non-existent tomorrow- apologies in advance
>>
Curiosity is a curse damm you anons i hope we can get something out of this info
>>
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”Wait!” you call out, causing the old man to stop for a moment, turning his head slightly to look at you from over his shoulder. ”I have a few more questions.”

”Hehehe...so greedy. Have I not already rewarded you for freeing me, and yet you ask for more?” he chides teasingly, his cold, dark eyes staring at you- no, through you. ”I will humor you just this once. Three questions- no more, no less. Ask them, and I shall answer to the best of my ability. If you want anything else after that, you will have to pay for it in some regard” he tells you.

Nodding your head slowly, you take a moment to organize your thoughts and think about the most pertinent pieces of information. ”First off, who built this place?” you ask.

”The Regalian Empire” he tells you. ”They’re the ones who rule- well, I suppose it’s ruled now- who ruled this continent. They’d been around for two hundred years at the time I was sealed here” he explains.

”I... I’ve heard of them before” Henry pipes up. ”I found out about them during my research of this place. There’s not a lot of records or documents, but they did apparently exist before the Kingdom of Belfrost” he tells you.

”Belfrost...so that’s who rules this continent now” the Archmage of Ruin muses. He’s not exactly correct- there’s also the Kingdoms of Ferrolin, Halcyon, and Guthmar, but you see no reason to correct him. Besides, among them, Belfrost is certainly the largest and strongest.

”Alright. What happened in the past that got you to this point?” you inquire next.

You feel a chill roll down your spine as the wizard glares at you, furrowing his eyebrows. This is clearly a topic he doesn’t feel like talking about, but he obliges you nevertheless. ”The Regalian Empire feared my power, feared what I could and had done to those who got in my way. The cowards waited for a moment of weakness and bound me long enough to construct a seal, and then built this temple to make it nigh impossible for me to ever be freed.”

He scoffs. ”Of course I broke the seal in time, but those doors were impenetrable. They must’ve only left a way for them to be opened in case my power was ever needed to conquer some greater evil- as if I’d have helped them.” he answers, practically spitting the words out.

(1/2)
>>
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”Okay, and what are your plans now?” you ask for your third and final question.

He pauses for a moment, putting a wrinkled hand to his chin in thought. ”Hmm...well, first I’ll have to get a look around the kingdom, this whole continent, even. Won’t know much until then” he responds with a wicked, toothy grin.

”Wait, that’s it? That’s all you can tell me?” you continue.

The wizard shrugs. ”That’s how it is, kiddo. Now, if you want anything else from me, you’re going to have to pay in some way. Otherwise, toodaloo~” he says, giving you only a moment to think of something before he starts walking back up the stairs.

>”Wait, I want…” (What? Do you make an offer for what to give him or have him name a price?)
>Remain quiet and wait for him to leave before deciding what to do next with your team (Any ideas in mind?)
>Attack him- he’s too dangerous to roam around freely! (EXTREMELY DANGEROUS)
>Other (write in)

(2/2)
>>
>>4826887
he's too dangerous to fight
let him go
>>
>>4826887
>Attack him- he’s too dangerous to roam around freely!
I believe in us.
>>
Useless info once again, whats with ppl asking questions to millennium old wizards, and he seem like lawful evil wich means we had the chance to really get something out of him or ruin silas gg
>lets end it here and go back with henry to secure the quest rewards
>>
>>4826928
Support
>>
>>4826887
>Attack him- he’s too dangerous to roam around freely!
>>
>>4826928
Support
>>
>>4826887
>>4826928
+1 this.
>>
>>4826992
Last time we ignored qm advice we lost our fucking arm and we only got 1 conquest point, i doubt thats enough to kill the millennium wizard without someone or all of our party dying
>>
>>4827042
small dick energy
>>
>>4827042
agree, we should let him go and ask the library wizard if he knows anything when we get back
after that report it to the guild
>>
>>4827042
I admit that arm stuff was pretty retarded. But that shit builds character and attachment to it.
>>
>>4826887
>Good luck on your travels sir, maybe we will see eachother again some time. My name is Herald by the way, what's yours?

A name would be very useful when it comes to researching who the fuck we just set upon the world

Then we get Henry back safe and sound, maybe checking for valuables, useful items etc before we leave
>>
>>4827207
He mentioned his name was Faust.
>>
>>4827207
>>4826887

Oh yeah we should clean this whole tomb after faust leaves
>>4827134
Well Jeanne fireballs are deadly and Faust most likely can use stronger spells so he would insta kill whoever he hits and we are at 36 hp so we cant even tank it, so I would avoid this combat, if more anons agree with you we are fighting anyway

>>4827172
True, Half HP, 1 spell slot Jeanne, if we fight and everyone survives it would be epic
>>
>>4826887
>Faust
I'm thinking this dude was already a dangerous wizard and sold his soul for power. I think he's likely to be a long-term antagonist once we try to defeat Silas. Who knows? We've made a dangerous mistake but we had no knowledge what we would cause and no capacity to stop him here.
>Remain quiet and wait for him to leave before deciding what to do next with your team (Any ideas in mind?)
Let's go back to Rathalon, finish this quest, then go straight to the librarian to ask him if he knows anything about Faust.
>>
>>4826892
>>4826894
>>4826928
>>4826940
>>4826992
>>4827011
>>4827031
>>4827207
>>4827411
Let him walk away

Writing!
>>
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You remain silent as Faust walks up the stairs and out of sight, waiting until you can no longer hear him.

”Should we really be letting him go?” Jeanne asks, her voice quiet.

Barret shakes his head. ”I’m sure boss man could feel it too- that guy was way out of our league. To be honest, I’m just glad we made it out of that exchange alive- I was freaking out” he says.

You nod your head in agreement. ”Barret’s right- he’s beyond our means. For now we’ll just have to be careful and see what he does. More importantly…” you say, turning to the rest of your group, ”We need to get Henry here back to Rathalon. Both for his sake and so we can get moving with our other objective” you point out, remembering that you still have to take Grug back to Krosh’tar.

”Well, we could stop in Fulton. It’s a little hamlet I dropped by on my way over here- they’ve got an inn and a store to restock supplies” Henry offers.

Clarissa lets out a sigh. ”Can’t, there’s a plague going on right now- we also took a look on the way over here to come get you. Only Herald can go in because he’s got some Godly blessing that makes him resistant to illness” she says, lazily pointing a finger at you for emphasis.

”I see. Well, perhaps we could camp out here for the night then. It would give you all some time to grab a few of the treasures here, and it’s probably safer than anywhere on the road” the explorer suggests.

”He’s got a point” Jeanne shrugs. ”Unless we’re really desperate to save a few hours or you don’t wanna mess with the stuff lying around here, we could just spend the rest of the day grabbing crap and taking it easy- start heading back to Rathalon in the morning.” You can’t see the sun right now from down here, but based on when you arrived and how much time you think you’ve spent in this temple, you’d guess it’s probably around four or five in the afternoon.

>Head to Fulton- there’s something else you wanted to do there. Everyone can camp outside the walls again
>Stay in the temple and gather up the loot. You can rest here for the night and resume travelling in the morning
>Time is of the utmost importance- you must make your way towards Rathalon right away
>Other (write in)
>>
>>4827430
>Stay in the temple and gather up the loot. You can rest here for the night and resume travelling in the morning

Loot that SHIITTTTT
>>
>>4827459
+1
>>
>>4827459
+1
>>
>>4827430
>Stay in the temple and gather up the loot. You can rest here for the night and resume travelling in the morning
Remember guys we gotta go fast for our journey to orc land
>>
>>4827459
LOOOOOOOOT
>>
>>4827208
...oh yeah.

>>4827430
>Loot and stay in the temple
But someone should take a look outside and get an idea of the actual time, we may of become disorientated with all the excitement
>>
>>4827430
>Stay in the temple and gather up the loot. You can rest here for the night and resume travelling in the morning
L O O T
O
O
T
>>
>>4827430
>Time is of the utmost importance- you must make your way towards Rathalon right away
>>
>>4828382
+1
>>
No one is immune to the Curse.
>>
>>4828909

Not cursed, just busy like I mentioned here: >>4826855
>>
>>4828909
Now you've done it
>>
>>4828909
You're immune to reading.
>>
>>4827459
>>4827472
>>4827474
>>4827588
>>4827634
>>4828047
>>4828300
>>4828382
>>4828477
Loot this bitch

Writing! Finished school crap, took some time to cool off, figured I'd get a post out before calling it for the day
>>
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”You two make a fair point” you answer. ”We’ll take some time to gather up any valuables and camp out here for the night.”

Satisfied with your response, the group gets to work, backtracking to various rooms and grabbing whatever looks valuable. Considering he’s already stocked up, Henry just lends a hand and lets your party have whatever’s left. Also worth noting is that most of the valuables are in the main chamber where Faust was sealed before- there are only a scant few items in the other rooms.

Some of the items are too worn or damaged to be worth the trouble, but you split the things that are still serviceable or in good enough condition among your group. In the end, your portion comes out to a little stone figure of what looks like a soldier, a small painting of an insignia or symbol that you assume is related to the Regalian Empire, one of those bronze vases with depictions of stick figures making various poses, and the bronze mallet from that trial of strength.

The treasures may be valuable to collectors or historians, but based on their actual construction and raw materials, you probably wouldn’t get much from anyone else. It’s better than nothing though, and you still have the gold jewelry from the skeletons earlier, which should get you some solid dosh.

Once the looting is finished, Barret starts up a small fire and the five of you huddle around for warmth, making small talk.

You’ve still got around two hours before you’ll need to hit the hay- enough time to do one last big task for the night before calling it quits.

>Research your prosthetic by reading your book on upper limb anatomy
>Play some one-handed flute
>Ask Jeanne about teaching you some magic
>Have a heart to heart with someone (Who? Anything you want to talk about in particular?)
>Just take it easy and go to sleep
>Other (write in)

---

CURRENT STATUS: https://pastebin.com/d4Z5Dbm7
>>
>>4829614
>Play some one-handed flute
We don't need two hands to ROCK
>>
>>4829614
read the book
>>
>>4829799
This, we can practice flute after we finish the book
>>
>>4829799
>>4829954
This
>>
>>4829614
>Research your prosthetic by reading your book on upper limb anatomy
Fuck that flute, tis the prosthetic chapter of Herald's life.
>>
>>4829614
>Play some one-handed flute
>>
>read the book

Flute is cool and all but... You know, we have an arm missing and it would be great to have it back
>>
>>4829614
>Research your prosthetic by reading your book on upper limb anatomy
If we can make more of these for future replacements, then...
>>
>>4829614
>Just take it easy and go to sleep
>>
>>4829614
>>4829954
Also lets use jeanne last spell for the day to heal us
>>
Rolled 6, 4, 4 + 6 = 20 (3d6 + 6)

>>4829631
>>4829799
>>4829954
>>4830016
>>4830159
>>4830206
>>4830274
>>4830384
>>4830714
>>4830762
Research prosthetic + get a heal from Jeanne (because there's no reason not to use her last spell since she's about to refill)

Dice are for the Lesser Heal.

Roll me 1d20+5 (+3 for INT, +2 for Study) to see how your research goes!
>>
Rolled 1 + 5 (1d20 + 5)

>>4830768
>>
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>>4830794
>>
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You crack open the book on upper limb anatomy, Jeanne casually making her way towards you as you get ready to read. She points her staff at you, and a green magical circle forms at the end. ”Lesser Heal” she says, and immediately you're enveloped by an invigorating energy, nearly all your wounds closing up and bruises fading. Hot damn, healing magic does work!

*Herald’s Health: +20 (56/60)*

”Thanks” you mutter, only glancing up at her long enough to give a nod of appreciation.

”Yeah yeah, I’m gonna be stocked up after I head to bed, figured why not” she says, offering a small smile before returning to Barret’s side.

As the others go over their respective hauls of loot and chat with one another, you struggle to read with the aid of the campfire. Perhaps your mind and body are still jumbled up from the trials and Faust, but you’re just not able to glean much new information or remember a lot of what you read. You get the feeling you’ll have to go over many of these passages again the next time you sit down to study, but you do still make a little headway in terms of your research.

Upper Limb Anatomy: 26/50

You can feel your eyelids start to grow heavy and end up putting the tome away, settling in for a good night’s rest. Thanks to how far underground you are and the general nature of how hidden away this tomb is, your entire group is able to get a good night’s rest without worrying about keeping watch.

You wake up the next morning feeling good as new between your rest and Jeanne’s healing.

*Herald’s Health: +4 (60/60)*

Henry’s still sleeping, but the rest of your team seems to be waking up as well. Of course, now that the fire’s dead, it’s completely dark in here, so Jeanne pulls out her staff. ”Light” she mutters, a bright flash startling you all and waking up poor Henry with a start. At the very least, you can all see again.

You pull a ration out from your bag of holding and chow down, the others more or less following suit. Perhaps it’s the sudden, forceful wake-up, or perhaps it's the fact that you have a new addition to the group, but people aren’t chatting or asking about what to do like usual- so you suppose it’s your job to bring up what comes next.

>”Alright, let’s get out of this dusty old place and do some training!”
>”Come on guys, let’s make tracks back to Rathalon”
>”Actually, we should head out to Fulton. There’s something I want to do there”
>You don’t need to get a move on right away. You can do some more research or play a little flute first (Flute or Book?)
>Other (write in)
>>
>>4830833
>You don’t need to get a move on right away. You can do some more research.
We're gonna conquest this fucking book or get a brain aneurysm trying.
>>
>>4830794
Who invited this guy? Lol

>Let's make tracks back to rathlon

We have a war to prevent!
>>
>>4830833
>”Come on guys, let’s make tracks back to Rathalon”
We need to move, ASAP. We promised the captain we would.
>>
>>4830853
>>4830865
There is going to be no war or we would've left this nerd in his dungeon and were on our qay already. Orcish army fucking died on way to Rathalon and Jeffrey doesn't know it. Why do YOU not know it?
>>
>>4830833
>”Come on guys, let’s make tracks back to Rathalon”

Sorry guys
>>
>>4830882
I DO know it but Jeffrey doesn't know it and the longer we wait for Jeffrey the more likely it is he WILL know it and START a counter war on the orcish continent. That would be based, but it would also lead to a lot of death and suffering, which would be... based and would please Gnon, but a lot of innocent people would be hurt, because they weren't strong enough to defend themselves which is... hmmmm. Fuck, we really need to reconcile our altruistic morality with our ethos of Conquest. Sure, we're righteous because we want to be righteous, might makes right, and we are mighty, but how do we handle that in relation to the people affected by Conquest who aren't able or willing to become strong, like we were? Maybe we should conquer the orcs and forge their remnants into an army strong enough to challenge Silas in vengeance.
>>
>>4831038
I am surprised how many hoops you will jump to pretend that what you say is valid logic.
We literally told him it will take WEEKS for us to reach their continent, and that is the exact fucking reason he allowed us to delay the journey for a few days.

There is NO fucking way he will start a "counter war" because that goes against the whole idea of sending us there as a diplomat, it makes no sense to do it because it would take WEEKS for the troops in warships to get there and we will be back in Rathalon in a flash, it makes no sense because he doesn't have the ability to do anything without asking and convincing higher ups to mobilize an army, which would take WEEKS and give our intentions away to Silas (who's enemy and position he doesn't know) and finally that all is the reason why we have no reason to give a flying fuck.
I can't tell whether you're shitposting or genuinely retarded.
>>
>>4830833
>”Alright, let’s get out of this dusty old place and do some training!”
>>
>>4830846
>>4830853
>>4830865
>>4831021
>>4831164
Back to Rathalon

Writing!
>>
>>4831164
This
Too late to vote :(
>>
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Sure there’s no danger of a war brewing between the orcs and the humans for now, but there are other reasons to get moving on the whole ‘escort Grug back to Krosh’tar’ thing. For one, the orcs might be able to provide evidence that could prove Silas’ guilt in the matter- though that’s admittedly wishful thinking on your part. It’s not impossible that he used a false identity or proxies to set things up.

The other, more major concern, is that the longer you spend dealing with this, the more time Silas has to catch wind that his plan has failed and make his escape- or worse, execute some other sinister plan he’s got in the works.

”Come on guys, let’s make tracks back to Rathalon!” you tell the group, much to their relief. Even Barret doesn’t seem too disappointed about skipping training.

”Finally, I’ll get to see my wife again!” Henry says with a small grin.

Clarissa raises an eyebrow at this. ”Weren’t you here this whole time by choice? You didn’t seem trapped when we got you” she retorts.


”Semantics” he answers, waving a hand dismissively as the five of you climb the stairs and make your way back to the city. It’s going to be two days of travel at the very least, assuming there’s no major interruptions, so all the more reason to get moving as soon as possible.

A few hours into your travels and you note a conversation on the side of the road. Three figures are huddled together. They’re not necessarily speaking quietly, but it’s clear their conversation is meant to be somewhat private.

”...I’m just saying it’s a lot of money, and we can totally take it” you hear a shorter man say as you walk past- no, he’s much too short to be a man. A halfling, then? It’s hard to tell when most of their features are obscured- though you do catch the glint of a gold dog tag around his neck- same with the other two.

”It’s stupidly dangerous. A hydra is beyond our capabilities- none of us can even use magic, idiot” another responds, a woman from the sound of it.

”She’s right, it’s too much trouble” a third, gruff voice says, this one from a large, strong looking man. No, on closer inspection, you can tell he has tusks- or stubs, rather. It seems they’ve been filed down, but he can’t hide his gray skin. An Orc?

>Keep walking, it’s none of your business
>Try to slow your walking and subtly eavesdrop
>Approach the group (What do you say?)
>Other (write in)
>>
>>4831262
>Keep walking, it’s none of your business
Get that man back to his wife!
>>
>>4831262
>Keep walking, it’s none of your business
>>
>>4831262
>keep walking, it's none of your business
>>
>>4831262
>Approach the group (What do you say?)
A hydra, you say?
>>
>>4831262
>Keep walking, it’s none of your business
>>
>>4831312
>>4831326
>>4831390
>>4831468
>>4831479
Keep walking

Writing!
>>
does anybody remember that one bandit we intimidated the fuck out of in thread one with our chad aura? I wonder if he will ever become relevant again. He did say he will get us or something.
>>
>>4831558
Last you saw, the ogre that was hanging around was going after his camp. You hadn't warned him about it
>>
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Whoever those people are, their conversation isn’t your business. Besides, they’re gold-ranked adventurers- they don’t need your input. Catching the way you think about them further reinforces the idea that rising through the ranks of the Adventurer’s Guild is the best way to get peoples’ attention and spread your cause of Conquest.

You fiddle with the rabbit’s foot around your neck as the Super Conqueror Bros press onward with Henry in toe. The others are engaging in small talk again, but you’re not feeling too up to conversation. You’re still going over what you read last night, trying to piece together the information from the book. The sooner you can figure out this prosthetic, the sooner you can overcome your weakness- and you have to admit you’re excited about the idea of outfitting it with various tools or weapons as you think of them. Imagine the look on an enemy’s face if a crossbow came jutting out of your makeshift arm! Just thinking about it puts a smile on your face.

Eventually, the sun begins to set- your group having made significant progress on their way back to Rathalon. Before you lose the natural lighting from the sun, you manage to spot a sizable pond not too far from the road.

”We’ll set up camp there” you tell the others, pointing towards the body of water.

”Works for me, boss man” Barret replies, and the others seem to agree more or less. You help set up the tents and the fire with everyone and get the camp site more or less set up before the sun goes down. Thankfully, the explorer brought his own little tent and sleeping roll- which makes sense considering he had to make the two day journey to the temple in the first place.

Henry begins to talk with Jeanne about his research and discoveries, and Barret ends up talking to Clarissa more in depth about his life back on the farm, leaving you to your own devices. Your mind is still burdened with everything going on. This journey back to Krosh’tar, what Faust might be up to, and of course, stopping Silas from whatever he’s trying to accomplish. There’s also that fear about what might’ve happened to Castor sitting in the back of your mind, but you simply don’t have time to address that right now.

Once more you find yourself with a couple of hours before you need to get to sleep, and mull over what you want to do.

>Continue researching your prosthetic
>Play some one-handed flute
>Do a little fishing in the pond. You might be able to save yourself a ration tomorrow
>Have a heart to heart with someone (Who?)
>Just go to bed
>Other (write in)
>>
>>4831578
Still a chance
>>4831584
>Continue researching your prosthetic
Study time
>>
>>4831584
>Do a little fishing in the pond. You might be able to save yourself a ration tomorrow

You can't dangle a motherfucking fishing minigame in my face and tell me not to play it. Let's FISH
>>
>>4831584
>>4831650
+1
I was gonna vote for book but this anon clearly loves fishing minigames
>>
>>4831650
hell yeah
>>
>>4831650
Fair enough
Changing vote to fishing mini game
>>
>>4831650
>>4831671
>>4831683
>>4831698
Fishing!

Roll me 1d20+3 (+3 for WIS). Fishing mini-game coming in the future, need time to work on how to make something fun without it being easy to game. No promises, but I'll try my best to come up with something!

1-5: Nothing
6-10: Minnow (Can be used as a better bait)
11-15: Gobi (Feeds 1)
16-20: Golden Tench (Feeds 2)
21+: Sturgeon (Feeds 4, mad Fishing cred)
>>
Rolled 4 + 3 (1d20 + 3)

>>4831763
Cmon dice let us conquest these fishies
>>
Rolled 9 + 3 (1d20 + 3)

>>4831763
Thanks for trying--didn't mean to strongarm you into designing a fishing minigame!
>>
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https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XdxYS_zVByg

With the pond so close, you feel the water call to you. Not like it did back in the woods near Rathalon where you found the Elden Ring, but in a more...natural sense. Not like pissing, either perse- oh screw it, you know what the damn feeling is!

Sitting beside the pond, you reach into your bag of holding and produce the fishing pole you bought in Fulton the other day, nestling it between your legs as you reach for one of the pieces of bait, attaching it to the hook at the other end.

After making sure the bobber and hook are all set up, and the lines are strung right, you cast your line into the water and take it easy, holding the rod lazily between your legs as you sit in a criss-cross applesauce position.

Let the others talk amongst themselves- the cool night air and the relaxing activity put your mind at ease. Focusing on the pole and the water, you feel a certain serene stillness- up until the moment where the bobber starts to sink below the surface of the water.

Holding the pole tightly between your two feet, you put your hand on the reel and start cranking it, using your legs to pull the rod back. There isn’t much struggle on the other end, and eventually you fall on your back, the rod in the air with your legs holding it up as a small minnow dangles from your hook!

*SKILL ACQUIRED! (Fishing: 1)*

It’s not an impressive specimen by any means, but it’s still your first time ever catching something, and you can’t help but feel excited. You can also try and use it as bait in the future- should work even if it dies.

Unfortunately, you can’t store living things in your bag of holding, so you wait until it suffocates before stashing it.

Now, you could get back to the campsite and go to bed...but you still feel the water calling to you. What’s one more cast, right?

>Fishing! Fishing! Fishing! (Using the Bait or the Minnow?)
>No...you can’t get swept away by the call of the water (Head to bed)
>>
>>4831828
>Fishing! Fishing! Fishing! (Using the Bait or the Minnow?)
Now THAT'S what I call music!
>>
>>4831828
>Fishing! Fishing! Fishing! (Minnow)
>>
>>4831830
Shit, sorry--minnow, please.
>>
>>4831828
>Fishing! Fishing! Fishing! (Using the Bait or the Minnow?)
Fuck it, glory to Aemis
>>
>>4832022
Use the minnow and be sure to pray to Aemis
>>
>>4831828
>>4831842
+1
>>
Wait
>>4832061
>>4831828

Can't we literally talk to fish and/or go inside the pond to search for game or random stuff?
Does water creatures =/= aquatic animals or not?
>>
>>4832076
You can indeed talk to fish through your mind! You have to concentrate to do so, and you can't control them aquaman style, but you can indeed make fish buddies or use them as sources of information (probably more useful in the ocean or in a river than a pond).

Just let me know when you guys want to use this power!

Also, gonna call it here for the night- way past when I usually sleep. I'll see you guys in the morning.

As always, thanks for reading and playing A Herald's Journey!
>>
>>4831828
>Fishing! Fishing! Fishing! (Using the Minnow)

>>4832076
>>4832112
Fish bros will have to wait to later, once we reach a suitably huge body of water
>>
>>4831830
>>4831842
>>4831845
>>4832022
>>4832061
>>4832062
>>4832076
>>4832697
Fishing! Fishing! Fishing! (Use a minnow)

Also, do you want to try talking to the next fish you catch? (I'll leave this up for 30 mins, or for the first vote after 30 minutes pass from this vote)
>Y
>N

Lastly, roll me 1d20+4 (+3 for WIS, +1 for Fishing)!

0-7: Nothing
8-12: Crappie (Feeds 1)
13-15: Perch (Feeds 2)
16-20: Bass (Feeds 2)
21+: Sturgeon (Feeds 4)
>>
>>4832839
>N
>>
Rolled 2, 1, 1, 3, 3, 3, 3, 1, 4, 1, 2, 1, 3, 3, 1, 4, 2, 4, 1, 1, 3, 4, 2, 3, 2 = 58 (25d4)

>>4832839
Y
>>
Rolled 11 + 4 (1d20 + 4)

>>4832846
>>
>Y

Why not
>>
Rolled 16 + 4 (1d20 + 4)

>>4832839
Y
>>
>>4832839
>Y
What could go wrong?
>>
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Hell, what’s one more cast, right? You take the minnow back out from your bag and put it on the hook before throwing your line back into the water, just relaxing and taking in the atmosphere.

Your mind feels at ease as you lay back and look up at the starry night sky. Why doesn’t everyone do this whole fishing thing? If you ever get the chance to meet back up with Master one day, you’d love to go out on the water with him- maybe get a boat or something and just spend a whole day like this.

The silence and the simple task allow your mind to wander to matters you’ve been putting off for the sake of emergency. You’ve had a hopeful outlook of the future thus far, but you’re still not really sure what your goal is at the end of the day- and although you’re willing to give yourself time to figure that out, you’ll need to get it sorted eventually.

...but you’ll have to continue putting that off because your rod is bending forward! Snapping to attention, you hold the pole between your feet once more and begin yanking backwards whilst cranking the reel as best you can. This time, the fish on the other end puts up much more of a fight- but you still manage to win out again, once more falling on your back.

This whole fishing one handed thing is a little embarrassing when it requires you to keep falling backwards and sticking your legs high in the air, but the sheer joy you feel from the catch is well worth it.

Being by the water and seeing the large, yellow perch on the end of your line however, reminds you of the blessing Aemis gave you. Concentrating for a moment, you attempt to reach out to the animal with your mind.

Hello, fishy

Can’t...breathe...going...to die…” you hear the fish mentally respond in strained breaths, despite the fact that it’s talking to you through its mind.

You think for a moment, getting the fish in your hand proper as you sit back up. Alright, I’m going to put you back in the pond for a moment, but don’t move or the hook will tear you up you say as you lean forward, keeping the hook in the perch’s mouth as you dip it back into the pond.

You...you monster! BETRAYER! it shouts in your mind.

Being called a monster definitely pisses you off, but you’re more confused about the whole ‘betrayer’ angle. Betrayer? How did I betray you?

You put a promise of food in front of me- only to snag me up with your device just to eat me yourself I’m sure! Cruelty, betrayal! it insists.

>Let the fish go, you feel kinda bad… (Keep Fishing)
>Let the fish go, you feel kinda bad… (Sleep)
>Keep that fish and kill it, it’ll make good food for you and a friend in the morning. (Fishing)
>Keep that fish and kill it, it’ll make good food for you and a friend in the morning. (Sleep)
>Other (write in)
>>
>>4832915
>Keep that fish and kill it, it’ll make good food for you and a friend in the morning. (Fishing)
>>
>>4832915
>Keep that fish and kill it, it’ll make good food for you and a friend in the morning. (Fishing)
>"It's the rules of nature, fish. The rules of Conquest. I'm sure there's at least one sort of fish out in the world somewhere that baits other fish into being eaten by it. I know if you were in my place, you would do no different to eat."
>Snap its neck.
>>
>>4832999
>>snap neck
with one hand?
>>
>>4833013
It's a fish, we can't one-handed neck snap?
>>
>>4832992
>>4832999
Keep the fish and kill it, then keep fishing!

Roll me another 1d20+4 (+3 for WIS, +1 for Fishing)

1-5: Nothing
6-10: Minnow (Can be used as a better bait)
11-15: Gobi (Feeds 1)
16-20: Golden Tench (Feeds 2)
21+: Sturgeon (Feeds 4)
>>
Rolled 17 + 4 (1d20 + 4)

>>4833359
>>
>>4833381
Amazing
>>
>>4833381
let's talk to this beast
>>
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A part of you feels a little bad for the perch, but a man’s gotta eat! You cut off your mental connection with the poor animal and snap its neck in your hand, your excessive strength allowing you to perform the feat with ease before stashing it into your bag.

Now, a sane man might call it quits and head to bed, get some shuteye, but fishing has awoken something in you and you can’t stop now. Perhaps it’s Aemis’ influence seeping into your soul, perhaps it’s nature calling to you as a man, or perhaps deep down you may have had the potential to become a Herald of Pescetarianism, but regardless you grab some more bait and get it on the hook before casting out your line once more.

A great length of time passes as you wait in silence for the next bite, but the time flies by as you enter an indescribable zen state that surpasses any form of meditation or relaxation you’ve experienced thus far. Here, on the water, you’re perfectly able to sift through your thoughts and emotions and put everything in order.

Eventually, you snap to attention as your pole yanks hard, nearly coming out of your lap as you struggle to grip it between your feet and start cranking the reel. Far more than the perch, the fish on the other line puts up a tremendous fight. Multiple times throughout the process you lose ground as the fish pulls the pole further down, taking more line with it as you almost lose hold of it, but nevertheless you remain steadfast and use all your strength to power through.

After a few minutes that feel like an eternity, you come out the victor- falling on your back once more as the enormous fish comes flying out of the water. It’s so large that its momentum causes it to slide off the hook and land on your chest as it comes out, the animal at least five feet in length as it flops on top of your torso. Holy shit- that’s a STURGEON! Yeah, you’re definitely getting better at this fishing thing.

*SKILL INCREASE! (Fishing: 2)*

Soon enough, the enormous specimen suffocates and you’re able to cram it into your bag of holding, a strange, child-like wonder and glee overcoming you for a brief moment. Now you’ve got enough food to feed EVERYONE tomorrow morning, with a little leftover as an extra ration. Normally the fish would go bad quickly, but the bag of holding significantly slows down the normal rate of spoilage, so they should last at least a week in there.

The downside, however, is you’ve spent way, way longer out on the water than you ever intended. The sun is already starting to rise, and you surmise it’s probably around five or six in the morning. Shit- you didn’t get any sleep!

>Go to bed immediately. You’ll still feel tired, but some sleep is better than none
>Screw it, take the time to do some prosthetic research before everyone wakes up
>It’s too late, you’re already gone. Gone Fishin’
>Other (write in)
>>
>>4833426
>It’s too late, you’re already gone. Gone Fishin’
>>
>>4833426
>Go to bed immediately. You’ll still feel tired, but some sleep is better than none
>>
>>4833426
>It’s too late, you’re already gone. Gone Fishin’
Too late now
>>
>>4833426
>Go to bed immediately. You’ll still feel tired, but some sleep is better than none
>>
>>4833454
>>4833537
>>4833581
>>4833676
Gonna give it 30ish minutes for a tiebreaker vote before rolling.

Also sorry for taking so long, went out with some peeps for dinner
>>
>>4833426
>Screw it, take the time to do some prosthetic research before everyone wakes up
>>
>>4833426
>Go to bed immediately. You’ll still feel tired, but some sleep is better than none
>>
>>4833454
>>4833537
>>4833581
>>4833676
>>4834043
>>4834045
Go to bed immediately

Writing!
>>
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For a moment, you almost think about just saying fuck it and giving your life over completely to fishing- but right as you’re about to cast your line, you remember all the things you still have to take care of. With a heavy heart, you sigh as you take the bait back off the hook and store everything in your bag of holding.

You sneak back into the tent with Barret and lay down in your bed roll.

You only get about two or three hours of sleep before you’re woken up by the group, everyone else already up and about. You feel fucking tired, fatigued even, but the little sleep you did get at least prevented you from accumulating a level of exhaustion. As long as you get a full, solid six to eight hours of sleep tonight and don’t stay up too late, you should be fine.

”You look tired, boss man. Have trouble sleeping?” Barret asks as you step out of the tent and towards the fire they’ve got going. Seems people are already taking out their rations and preparing to eat breakfast.

>”Wait, I’ve got something for everyone” (Feed the people! Sturgeon + half your Perch)
>Just take out a ration. You can save the fish for another day

As everyone settles in to eat, Henry takes the opportunity to talk to you a little. ”You’re Herald, right? The others were telling me about you” he says.

”Is that so?” you muse, wondering where he’s going with this.

”I find the idea of heraldry fascinating, and admire the single-minded focus and work of people such as yourself. I’ve also heard you’re sort of the leader around here, but we haven’t really had a chance to talk much.”

You shrug. ”We’ve been busy, and I’ve got a lot on my mind, you’ll have to forgive me. You holding up okay?”

He nods. ”Yeah. I’m mostly just excited to get home- both to see my family and to really get down to business with my research.”

Soon Jeanne pipes up, giving you an excuse to break off the conversation there. ”So what’s the plan, Herald? We heading out right away or are you going to have us do the usual training?”

>Get moving
>Morning training first
>Take a little time to do some prosthetic research
>The water...you need to fish…
>Other (write in)
>>
>>4834066
>”Wait, I’ve got something for everyone” (Feed the people! Sturgeon + half your Perch)
>Morning training first
>>
>>4834066
>”Wait, I’ve got something for everyone” (Feed the people! Sturgeon + half your Perch)
>Morning training first
>>
>>4834066

Morning training and fish share.

I say we invite Henry to do training just as an optional thing for fun.
>>
>>4834078
Support
>>
>>4834066
>Just take out a ration. You can save the fish for another day
>Take a little time to do some prosthetic research
>>
>>4834232
Dupporting the support
>>
>>4834078
+1
Training is the only thing to surpass the prosthetic research.
>>
>>4834412
Support-ception
>>
>>4834078
+1
>>
>>4834078
+1
>>
>>4834078
>>4834114
>>4834163
>>4834232
>>4834257
>>4834412
>>4834468
>>4834643
>>4834757
>>4834772
Share the fish and train!

Roll me 1d20+4 (+3 for WIS, +1 for Cooking) to cook the fish! Only need a 10 or higher since you're being real basic (just cooking them over the fire)
>>
Rolled 9 + 4 (1d20 + 4)

>>4835029
>>
>>4835036
rolled about right
>>
Rolled 14 + 4 (1d20 + 4)

>>4835029
Fish are friends, AND food!
>>
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”Wait!” you call out, stopping everyone as they’re about to open up their rations. ”I’ve got a little something for everyone- just hold tight for another 15 or 20 minutes” you say.

First you pull the yellow perch out of your bag of holding, which gets a few nods of approval. Then you pull out the sturgeon, and everyone’s eyes widen at the sight of the thing. You spear the perch with a stick and the sturgeon with several larger ones and set them near the fire, letting them cook.

The sturgeon takes a bit longer given its sheer size and volume, but eventually you split the meal up in a way so that everyone gets a lot of sturgeon, a little perch, and enough food in their bellies for the day.

”This is spectacular!” Henry says, his mouth half-full of fish.


”Gotta say I agree- you really outdid yourself this time, Herald” Clarisas adds in. The whole group seems pretty happy with this meal beyond just saving themselves a ration, and you can understand why. The perch is good, sure, but the sturgeon is fucking awesome. Man, talking to fish is neat and all, but eating them is way, way better!

Once everyone’s finished eating, you stand up and speak to the group at large. ”Alright, you guys know the drill- we’re gonna get our morning training in. Just the basics for today so we can get moving in an hour or so” you tell them, and for once there’s no complaints- probably due to a combination of taking some time off training and the great meal everyone just had.

”Henry, you’re welcome to join us as well” you offer, not pushing him since he didn’t exactly sign up to be an adventurer.

The explorer puts a hand up. ”Based on what your friends here have told me, I don’t think I’m quite up to something as vigorous as you all do, but I can do a small workout to get the blood flowing. It’ll be fun!” he answers.

With that, you get to your usual routine, everyone handling it pretty well. In fact, Jeanne seems to take all the basic exercises in stride now, her muscle starting to show a little as she goes through the usual motions. Perhaps you’ll need to up the reps or add something new soon?

After an hour, your group is a little sweaty, but your blood is flowing and you feel pretty great- it’s time to get a move on!

>QM, give us one more event on the road!
>Take this opportunity to talk with someone (Who? About anything in particular?)
>Timeskip us to Rathalon, NOW!
>Other (write in)
>>
>>4835073
>Timeskip us to Rathalon, NOW!
No more distractions
>>
>>4835073
>QM, give us one more event on the road!
Lets complete ALL the secondary quest's
>>
>>4835073
>Timeskip us to Rathalon, NOW!
*Autistic sperging noises*
>>
>>4835073
>QM, give us one more event on the road!
>>
>>4835073
>Timeskip us to Rathalon, NOW!
AH SHEEIT
>>
>timeskip to rathlon

ONWARDS!
>>
>>4835073
>Timeskip us to Rathalon, NOW!
Play the flute the whole way
>>
>>4835073
>Timeskip us to Rathalon
Read the book during the breaks. We are halfway through it!
>>
>>4835204
>>4835207
>>4835244
>>4835258
>>4835317
>>4835324
>>4835457
>>4835522
Timeskip to Rathalon

Writing!
>>
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With your morning training finished and a good meal in your gut, the Super Conqueror Bros get back on the road and make tracks towards Rathalon. Truth be told, the trip is much more grueling than it should be. You stayed up way too late fishing last night and got much too little sleep, and several times you feel as though you almost fall asleep while walking, only to force yourself awake.

You finally manage to arrive in Rathalon at around six PM, and the whole group immediately feels relieved to be back in town- Henry most of all.

”Thank you all, thank you so much! I cannot express my gratitude enough for your help in my exploration!” he says, continuing to heap praise and thanks gratuitously on the party.

”It was supposed to be a rescue,” Clarissa grumbles, before revealing a small smile, ”but you’re welcome.”

After promising to fill the Adventurer’s Guild in on your job well done, the explorer darts off towards the guild hall while everyone else is still taking in the fact that they’re finally back in town. ”For a scrawny little guy, he sure has a lot of energy” the ranger remarks.

”How are you feeling, boss man?” Barret asks, turning the group’s attention towards you.

”Tired, but fine. The quest is finished, so you guys can do whatever you want- I’ll get things sorted within the next day or so” you tell him, speaking more to the group than Barret specifically. Satisfied, the other three split off, presumably to go relax and take it easy in their own ways, leaving you up to your own devices.

>Head to the Adventurer’s Guild. Might as well get your reward and figure out the logistics of that first and foremost
>Meet up with Jeffrey, tell him you’re ready to set sail tomorrow morning after you pick up your reward
>Try and get an audience with Lord Goodwell. Perhaps he can sponsor your journey to Krosh’tar
>Visit the library and see if the old man knows anything about Faust
>Head to the inn, you deserve to rest (Drinking/doing anything in the bar or straight to bed?)
>Other (write in)
>>
>>4835800
>Meet up with Jeffrey, tell him you’re ready to set sail tomorrow morning after you pick up your reward
I'm sure Jeffrey has already prepared everything for our travel. He is in a huge rush and waiting for us to return to stock on shit would be the opposite of time-efficient.

We should find an engineering book for the arm thing to read during the journey alongside upper limb anatomy, tho.
>>
>>4835800
>Meet up with Jeffrey, tell him you’re ready to set sail tomorrow morning after you pick up your reward
>>
>>4835800
>Meet up with Jeffrey, tell him you’re ready to set sail tomorrow morning after you pick up your reward
Let's get to it!
>>
>>4835800
>Visit the library and see if the old man knows anything about Faust
>>
>>4835864
We can go to the library wizard after securing Jeffrey
>>
>>4835841
+1

We can tick some of the other stuff off of the list if we have time but this is top priority
>>
>>4835800
and foremost
>Meet up with Jeffrey, tell him you’re ready to set sail tomorrow morning after you pick up your reward
>>
>>4835800
>Meet up with Jeffrey, tell him you’re ready to set sail tomorrow morning after you pick up your reward
>>
>>4835800
>Meet up with Jeffrey, tell him you’re ready to set sail tomorrow morning after you pick up your reward
>>
>>4835825
>>4835841
>>4835861
>>4835864
>>4835875
>>4835911
>>4835917
>>4836007
>>4836063
Meet with Jeffrey

Writing! Give me a bit I'm a little under the influence
>>
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As tired as you feel, as much as you want nothing more than to slam your face into a real bed and conk out, you’ve still got responsibilities to take care of. Damn, being a leader sucks sometimes!

You don’t waste any time heading towards the barracks, taking in the familiar sights and sounds of Rathalon as you walk, letting them really seep into you. The distant smell of a baker on the corner, the sound of feet on cobblestone, the waves lapping against the coast over the horizon- this place is starting to feel like home.

Who knows, perhaps when you finish your journey, you’ll settle down here. You haven’t really felt like anywhere else was home since your village was burned to the ground, but maybe that will change with Rathalon.

Eventually you find yourself inside the barracks, the gruff lady at the counter actually offering you a smile when you walk in. ”It’s been a while, tin can. Jeffrey’s in his room if you’re looking for him”

You give her a curt nod. ”Thank you, ma’am.”

It doesn’t take long to reach Jeffrey’s door, and after only a few knocks it swings open to reveal the man in plainclothes. Immediately, his expression changes to one of relief. ”Oh thank the fucking Gods you’re finally back” he says, stepping back to invite you in. You move inside, quietly shutting the door so wandering soldiers won’t overhear your conversation.

”So?”

”We’ll be ready first thing tomorrow morning- just need to receive the reward for our quest and then we’ll head out.”

”Perfect! I’ll have a sloop and enough rations for your group at the docks at 10:00 AM” he tells you. ”Is there anything else you’ll need?”

>Actually, can you get… (What?)
>Sounds good

Once you settle the logistics, Jeffrey takes a seat at his desk, letting out a sigh that you feel he’s held in since the day you left for your rescue mission. ”Gods, I just hope it isn’t too late…”

>Stick around to reassure Jeffrey (What do you say?)
>Check in with the old man about Faust
>Try and get an audience with Lord Goodwell
>Receive your reward from the Guild
>Try to sell the gold jewelry you picked up (General Store or Merchant Square?)
>Other (write in)
>>
>4836219
>>Actually, can you get… (What?)
Can we get anything that symbolizes we aren't out to raid these guys? They might be a little jumpy. Maybe a white flag? Orcish Phrase Book?

>Stick around to reassure Jeffrey (What do you say?)
It's not the best situation we're in, but we can't back down--more lives than the ones in Rathalon hang in the balance here. Whether we succeed or fail, at least we can say we tried!
>>
>>4836219
>Actually, can you get...
Some potions and
>Stick around to reassure Jeffrey
Lets distract him so lets ask for his help with our Super Prosthetic project especially Enchanting Specifics and Prosthetic Materials
>>
>>4836466
+1
Potions for tax money and books, since library doesn't let you borrow and we don't have time to browse local scarce book market.
>>
>>4836466
+1
>>
>>4836365
Can we add this on as well? An orcish phrase book might help mellow tensions a good deal when used right. Whatever constitutes a peace flag for orcs or in orcish culture should be necessary as well. No matter what happens, we have to head straight for the top of the hierarchy where the guys in charge are, and tell them the info
>>
>>4836219
>Sounds good
>Try to sell the gold jewelry you picked up ( Merchant Square?)
>>
>>4836365
>>4836466
>>4836654
>>4836892
>>4836927
>>4836950
Peace flag, orcish phrase book, some health pots for da road + reassure Jeffrey

Writing! Sorry for the delay, juggling lots of crap and keep losing track of time
>>
Won't we have an orc with us? I'm sure he could teach us some key phrases and customs of orcish culture
>>
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First, you need to hash out the specifics with Jeffrey. ”Actually, is there any way you could get us an orcish phrasebook?” you ask.

The sergeant raises an eyebrow at this. ”You’re going to have that orc with you, right? Can’t he just communicate whatever needs to be said?”

”It’ll be helpful if we don’t have to rely entirely on him” you answer.

Jeffrey shrugs. ”Fine, consider it done. Anything else?”

You think for a moment. ”A white flag or something else to signal we’re no danger to them would be nice, and a few health potions wouldn’t hurt either.”

”Already got you covered on that first part. As for the potions, I can scrounge a few up for the sake of the mission.”

”Then I think we’ll be all good” you say, shaking his hand to finalize the deal.

-

As he sits at his desk with his eyes cast to the ground, you can’t help but feel a need to reassure the man. Sure he doesn’t have all the information available, and you can’t really give it to him, but you can at least cheer him up a little and make sure he’s not too worried.

”Hey” you say, putting your hand on his shoulder, ”it’s not the best situation we’re in, but we can’t back down. More lives than the ones in Rathalon hang in the balance here. Whether we succeed or fail, at least we can say we tried!” you say, offering him a smile that’s unfortunately hidden beneath your helmet.

Jeffrey looks up at you. Trying isn’t good enough- this is do or die, and like you said a lot of lives are at stake here” he mutters. Fuck- maybe you just need to distract him a little?

”Hey, I’m working on a fancy new prosthetic” you tell him, gesturing towards your stump arm. ”Got anything that might be able to help me out? Could really use a hand on the enchanting or the material end of things.”

This seems to catch his attention. ”Material? Enchanting? Oh, are you trying to make some machinist thing? I think we’ve got some book on military engineering around here- should at least help you figure out what materials are sturdy and will hold up in the heat of battle. I’ll pack it in with the other things you asked for” he says, perking up a little.

”Thank you, I really appreciate it man.”

He chuckles. ”Please, all of Rathalon will be safer if you’ve got two arms instead of one- we haven’t forgotten about your role in fending off the invasion!”

With Jeffrey put at ease, you realize it’s starting to get late. You probably have time to do ONE more thing before you should hit the hay.

>Collect your reward at the Adventurer’s Guild
>Visit the old man at the library
>Try and get an audience with Lord Goodwell
>Sell off this gold jewelry (Where?)
>Fuck it, just get to the inn (Relax or straight to bed?)
>Other (write in)
>>
>>4837251

>Collect your reward at the Adventurer’s Guild
>>
>visit the old man at the library

We should enquire about the wizard we freed and also show him the artifacts we liberated incase he can give us any information on them
>>
>>4837251
>Collect your reward at the Adventurer’s Guild
>Sell off this gold jewelry
Find the jewelry guy we protected against the Thieves' Guild, of course! He better give us a good price.
>>
>>4837251
>Sell off this gold jewelry (Where?)
Merchant square
>>
>>4837281
+1
>>
>>4837251
>Collect your moneys from the guild
Undead gold should go to a deity that hates undead
>>
I agree we shouldn't sell the jewelry, that is a tribute to the god of death
>>
>>4837274
>>4837280
>>4837281
>>4837284
>>4837328
>>4837430
>>4837681
Collect your reward

Writing!
>>
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Right before you hit the hay, you decide that you’ll need to collect the reward for finishing the rescue mission. Peeking into your gold pouch as you step outside the barracks, you feel a bead of sweat roll down your forehead. It’s...mighty light. Yeah, you’ll go get that payment now.

It doesn’t take too long to reach the Adventurer’s Guild, but rather than Charlotte at the desk it’s an older man, maybe in his thirties, with a five o’clock shadow and short, black hair. This must be the guy who works the evening shifts, if you had to guess- that or Charlotte is taking the day off.

”Herald here, representing the Super Conqueror Bros” you tell him, flashing your bronze dog tag to identify yourself. ”We finished our rescue mission for the explorer up in those ruins. I’m here to collect the reward.”

”Ah yes, the gentleman you recovered filled us in and took care of the paperwork. Let me get your reward for you” he says, giving you a curt bow before stepping into a backroom and pulling out four smaller sacks of gold- the money split four ways between you and your teammates. ”Everything should be here and accounted for. By the way, you’ve been making a lot of progress rather quickly. One more big quest and you’ll hit silver rank, I’m sure of it. For only being at this a month, that’s rather impressive” he says with a smile.

You nod. ”Appreciate the heads up. Take care” you say, pocketing your gold and storing the other three pouches away for your companions.

With the reward taken care of, you realize it’s pretty late, and you’re absolutely exhausted from the lack of sleep you got last night. You can feel the desire to rest weighing heavy on you- probably best to get to bed straight away. Of course, you could push yourself to do one more thing tonight if you really wanted, but then you’ll probably end up sleeping in until it’s time to meet up with Jeffrey.

>Rest here in the Adventurer’s Guild
>Head to the inn (Relax or straight to bed?)
>Nah, there’s ONE more thing you need to do tonight… (What?)
>Other (write in)
>>
>>4837781
>Nah, there’s ONE more thing you need to do tonight… (What?)
Sell off this gold jewelry. Find the jewelry guy we protected against the Thieves' Guild.
>>
>>4837781
>>4837804
+1
We voted this already. Find the jeweler we protected and cash in so we have moolah to spend in orcland.
>>
>>4837804
+1
>>
>>4837831
When we took that gold we agreed to offer it at the temple, after asking the priest wich deity wants the undead to be exterminated and give it to them
>Rest here in the Adventurers Guild or the INN directly to sleep
>>
>>4838076
+1

No way is that probably-cursed-gold getting pawned off!

Let's sleep at the inn then sacrifice it to the god of death in the morning.
>>
>>4838576

+1
>>
>>4838076
+1
>>
>>4838076
+1
that gold is gonna be CURSED
>>
>>4838576
>>4838676
>>4838920
>>4839123
Okay, that's fair. How about we flash the thief sign and pawn it off to whoever reacts? We didn't kill or even see all of them, there must be some individuals working solo, especially at this hour.
>>
>>4839234
I thought we were gonna throw it at the god of death because they're cursed loot from desecrated corpses turned into undead skeleton warriors, and if there's anybody that can crush mere curses like a fucking bug it would be the big death god himself.
>>
>>4839241
gods aren't your servants
>>
>>4837804
support
sell him the gold stuff for extra cash
>>
>>4837804
>>4837831
>>4837841
>>4838076
>>4838576
>>4838676
>>4838920
>>4839123
>>4839234
>>4839253
Okay, if I'm understanding right we're at 5 for sell and 5 for go to sleep and save it for the God of Death(?)

I've got some errands to run this morning so I'll give this a couple of hours for votes/you guys to reach a consensus before I tiebreak roll- ideally I'll be back and ready to check in around 11:00AM CDT at the latest, or 4:000PM UTC. Also sorry for falling asleep before getting a third update out last night!
>>
>>4839249
We're not giving it to him to break the curses. We're giving it to him because it's gold that was looted from peoples' skeletons turned into undead warriors. That's desecration. By giving the death god the gold, it's like we're giving the gold back to the people that it belonged to. If there are any curses on that gold, the god can just break them himself without any trouble. What's the issue here?
>>
>>4837804
+1
>>
>>4839376
With this it seems we're going with sell- and based on prior input, seems we're looking for the jewelry merchant you helped out.

Writing!
>>
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Even after grabbing your reward from the guild, your coin pouch is feeling rather light. Of course, you do still have that gold jewelry you looted off of the skeletons. The other crap from the temple you’ll have to wait until you can find a collector for, but the jewelry at least can be sold right away- and you know just the guy.

You arrive at the familiar stall, belonging to the man who you helped previously by telling him about one of the Thieves’ Guild’s plots. Upon seeing you, he immediately perks up. ”Well well well, it’s been a while, hasn’t it?” he says, a cheery smile on his face. ”I heard the Thieves’ Guild is gone for good thanks to you, and I certainly haven’t had any trouble lately. Tell me, how can I help you? Need a discount on a gift for a lover?” he asks.

You chuckle. ”Nah nah, nothing like that. I actually picked up some jewelry I’m looking to sell- figured I’d have you take a look and see if you’re interested” you say, pulling out the necklace and the strange teeth jewelry before handing it over to him.

He pulls out a little magnifying glass and takes a closer look, running his fingers along the jewelry and examining it carefully. ”I haven’t seen grills in a while- a very niche type of jewelry among the wealthy. The grills and the necklace both look a little damaged, but at the same time I’ve never seen designs of these kinds. Tell me, where did you get this?” he asks you.

You shrug, deciding to tell him the truth without giving away too much information. ”Found them in some old temple while on a quest- they’re probably from some kingdom in the past” you tell him.

”Is that so? Fascinating…” he says, trailing off as he examines them a little longer before setting the jewelry down. ”Alright, I’ll give it to you straight since you’ve helped me out- no mind games. The goods are damaged, but it’s still pure gold, and the make is unique enough that it would sell- especially if it’s attached to some ancient society. In its current state with the information you’ve given me, I’d be willing to take it off your hands at four hundred gold pieces” he offers.

>”Alright, deal!” (Sell the jewelry for 400 gold)
>”Make it five hundred” (Requires haggle roll- DC: 20. If you fail, he may knock his price down)
>”Actually, I think I’ll keep it. Thanks anyways” (Get some rest. Guild or Inn?)
>Other (write in)
>>
>>4839426
>”Alright, deal!” (Sell the jewelry for 400 gold)
>>
>>4839426
>”Alright, deal!” (Sell the jewelry for 400 gold)
Hell yah. It's good profit even without haggling and I'm sure he'll appreciate a loot supplier who doesn't try to squeeze extra gold pieces for the extra findings.

Gotta love how he doesn't give a shit about the fact that we lost our hand. Man just cares about the gold.
>>
>>4839426
>”Alright, deal!” (Sell the jewelry for 400 gold)
KA-CHING
>>
>actually I will keep it

Let's find out what we actually have before we sell it.

It could well be worth much more than 400 gold if it is some ancient artifact from a dead civilisation.

We won't need an awful lot of gold out at sea anyway...
>>
>>4839429
>>4839465
>>4839489
>>4839534
Take the money!

Writing!
>>
>>4839534
+1

Dammit greedy anons wasting opportunities, do we have anything we want to buy at the moment i net those are worth at least 1k gold in the correct hands
>>
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”Alright, deal!” you say, shaking the merchant’s hand. It’s only then, after the terms have been agreed to and he’s focused on you, that he seems to notice your fancy pauldron and missing arm.


”What the hell happened to you? Thieves’ Guild do that?” he asks. On one hand, you can’t help but wrinkle your nose at the idea that someone thinks the Thieves’ Guild could fuck you up like that. On the other hand, it’s kind of refreshing for someone to just point it out and ask for once instead of dancing around it or trying to be polite.

”Nah, got in a bad way with some asshole. Probably best if I keep the details to myself” you inform him, holding out your coin pouch for him to deposit your payment.

”Fair enough my friend, fair enough” he concedes, pouring the coins into your pouch.

*Gold: 493*

With that settled, it’s time to get some fucking shut eye- you’re tired and you’ll be lucky if you wake yourself up in time to set sail tomorrow. Then again...you can be a bastard sometimes. The library’s closed and Lord Goodwell is probably asleep, but you could spend a little bit of this money now around the merchant square- or perhaps visit the temple and see about making an offering or talking to the pastor.

>Nah, it’s time to fucking sleep (Adventurer’s Guild or Inn?)
>A little shopping might help you find something useful! (Looking for anything specific or just browsing around?)
>The Gods haven’t done wrong by you yet- you should hit up the temple before you go
>Other (write in)
>>
>>4839599

>>4839595
>The library’s closed
>>
>>4839604
Ah shit my bad sorry QM
>The Gods haven’t done wrong by you yet- you should hit up the temple before you go
>>
>>4839595
>Nah, it’s time to fucking sleep
Inn
>>
>>4839595
>>Nah, it’s time to fucking sleep (INN)
>>
>sleep
>>
>>4839595
>Nah, it’s time to fucking sleep
Head to the inn. Gods don't have to sleep, but we do.
>>
>>4839608
>>4839697
>>4839841
>>4839940
>>4840094
Get some rest at the inn

Writing!
>>
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You’ve messed around enough tonight. You’ve got some sleep to catch up on, and you’re not about to pass out in the city again, lest you face your comrades’ wrath. Instead you make your way over to the inn and head inside, greeted by the usual sounds of hustle and bustle.

The bard that’s usually in the corner is already packing up to leave for the night, but the gambling and drinking is still going strong. You see your teammates at the bar, sharing drinks and chatting with one another. You head over to them and toss them each a pouch of gold in turn.

”Here, the reward from the quest. Guild says we’ll likely be up for promotion soon, too. Good job everyone” you say.

Barret flashes you a toothy grin. ”Cheers to that, boss man!” he says, raising his mug before taking a swig.

”We’re almost silver? That’s pretty huge” Clarissa mentions. ”That’s when people really start noticing you and giving a shit. Makes heads turn a little on the street. Everyone feels safer with a silver-ranked adventurer around.”

Her words are enough to get you a little excited, despite your fatigue. That’s the type of clout you joined the guild for to begin with, and based on what Charlotte told you, many adventurers end or maintain their career around silver-rank. Almost reaching it in only a month makes you feel somewhat proud of yourself and your team, causing a thin smile to find its way on your lips. Thank the Gods for this helmet keeping your excitement hidden from the others.

”That means, barring any more emergencies, we’ll be getting straight back to work as soon as our little trip is done. Remember, the journey is two weeks by boat there, and two weeks back. We’ll be gone a little over a month- so if you need to write anyone a letter or get anything finished, do it before ten AM tomorrow” you order.

Jeanne gives you a lazy salute. ”Aye aye, captain” she says, sounding a little out of it. You can tell she’s well into her drink and starting to feel it a little.

”Alright, you three enjoy yourselves. I’m going to get some sleep” you tell them.

For once they don’t seem disappointed that you aren’t going to stick around and party. Is it because you sound as tired as you feel, or have they just given up on expecting you to share drinks with them? You hope it isn’t the latter- you’ll have to indulge them next time you get the chance.

You toss the innkeeper his five gold and take the key, saying a quick ‘thanks’ before heading up the stairs and into your room, falling asleep almost the instant your head hits the pillow.

(1/2)
>>
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You wake up the next morning a little later than usual- having slept in a bit. On the bright side, you can feel the fatigue from yesterday has more or less faded, and make it down the stairs to grab your meal without issue.

You’re the last to arrive, the other three already finished with their breakfast. You quickly scarf down your own bowl of soup to catch up as they talk.

”It’s almost time, Herald. As soon as you’re done we should head down to the coast to meet with Jeffrey” she says, gesturing with her head towards the clock on the wall. Nine thirty- shit.

If you leave now, you’ll probably make it just in time, maybe a minute or two early. However, you could push your luck and get some morning training done with your group or go finish one last thing you want to get done. You’d be late to your meeting and piss Jeffrey off, but what’s he gonna do- cancel the mission he’s been worried about for nearly a week now?

>Head straight to the coast and get moving- no need to test Jeffrey’s patience
>Try and get a last minute audience with Lord Goodwell- a sponsorship from him means more gold in your pouch
>Visit the wizard and ask about Faust- if you’re going to be gone for a month, you need to know if Belfrost will still be in one piece when you get back
>You have to visit the temple one last time before you go. Talking to the pastor or beseeching a God before a big task never hurts
>Morning training as always!
>You definitely need to stock up on supplies before you head out (General store, Blacksmith/Enchantress, or Merchant Square? Anything in particular you’re looking for?)
>Other (write in)

---

From all the cumulative training, Jeanne’s STR has reached 4!

CURRENT STATUS: https://pastebin.com/d4Z5Dbm7

(2/2)
>>
>>4840187
>Other
Write a letter to our babe about the trip we are going to take. And tell of how we are a quadriplegic now after some assassin tried to gank us. (non-de-script in case someone reads our letter.)
>>
>>4840187
>Head straight to the coast and get moving- no need to test Jeffrey’s patience

>>4840200
We have ended relationship with "our babe".
>>
>>4840224
Yeah but we still promised to write to her, and she deserves to know we are going somewhere and we might not receive any letters to her. Hell we might even die.
>>
>>4840246
>might even die
every 60 seconds a minute passes
>>
>>4840258
should have went with the mesothelioma one.
>>
>>4840187
>Head straight to the coast and get moving- no need to test Jeffrey’s patience
He's a good man
>>
>>4840187
>Head straight to the coast and get moving- no need to test Jeffrey’s patience

Maybe we can have someone look into Faust before we leave, or at least have someone check in with the Library Wizard.
>>
>>4840200
Seconding
>>
>>4840224
This
>>
>>4840413
Do this.

How about we ask Jeffrey to tell the old guy in the library that we met a wizard in a temple called Faust and he left?
>>
>>4840413
+1 this
>>
>>4840200
>>4840224
>>4840329
>>4840413
>>4840488
>>4840723
>>4840860
>>4841079
Go to the coast, ask Jeffrey to check things out

Writing!

---

Writing 14 entire unique days for this sea journey may be strange and annoying, so depending on how things go I may do small 2-3 day time skips at a time or more, as a heads up.
>>
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You see no reason to test Jeffrey’s patience or cause any trouble for your group. With a heavy sigh, you quickly scarf down the rest of your soup and face your party. ”Alright, let’s get moving- we’ve got a boat to catch.”

The Super Conqueror Bros manage to arrive about two minutes before ten o’clock, much to Jeffrey’s relief. The sergeant has two books in his hands, and Grug’s standing beside him. The orc waves quietly to your group with an awkward smile. ”Glad you made it!” Jeffrey teases with a wry grin, handing you the books- one on orcish phrases and another on military engineering.

”Aww, you really do care”’ you jokingly respond, earning you a playful punch on the shoulder from the sergeant.

”Shut up, idiot” he laughs. ”Rations are stocked in crates in the kitchen area underneath the deck. There are two rooms with six berths each, plus a cabin room for the captain- she’s already on the inside. She’ll be spending most of her time on the bridge or in her quarters if you need anything. I’ve packed 4 weeks of rations for the six of you for the trip there and back, but when you’re actually travelling through Krosh’tar you’ll need to figure out your own food situation” he informs you.

You nod. ”And the potions? Were you able to get me any?” you ask.

Jeffrey jokingly clicks his tongue. ”So greedy! Yeah, I’ve got you set bud” he says, popping open a small crate by his feet to reveal six health potions, which you begin storing in your bag of holding. ”Hopefully this’ll be enough. Sure the kingdom has big coffers, but that doesn’t extend to my barracks’ budget. The boat, the captain, all the food, and all this other crap you asked for adds up you know. It’s worth it for the sake of this mission of course, but just keep in mind how much all this shit costs and how much is riding on you and your friends here, got it?”

”Of course, I understand. Thank you Jeffrey- really. We won’t let you down” you tell him as you put the last health potion in your bag. ”Anything else I should know?”

(1/2)
>>
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The sergeant thinks for a moment. ”There’s a cargo area where you can store any crap you come across, I guess- but unless it’s something big, I’m sure you could just stuff it in your bags of holding. The ship’s also got a cannon on each side of the deck with about four dozen cannonballs in crates, but it’s meant for emergency situations. Trust me, if you get in a proper fight, that little sloop is not going to hold up against any other ship. If you absolutely have to, fire a cannonball at a threat to slow it down and try to take advantage of the ship’s small size and speed to get the hell out of there. Normally the way to Krosh’tar is pretty safe thanks to Orcish privateers, but those have all disappeared since the trade halted, so pirates or other threats are a real possibility. Just keep an eye out and use your head, yeah?”

”Right, I understand” you respond out loud, already thinking through the logistics or possibilities of CONQUESTING enemies on the ocean. It could be a new and fun experience!

”Alright then” Jeffrey says, giving a hefty enough pat on Grug’s back to make him take a few steps forward, ”I wish you all good luck. Gods be with you” he says, giving you a salute which you and the rest of your allies return in kind.

As everyone boards the ship, Grug takes a moment to get near you to speak privately. ”Thanks, by the way. For helping me get home. I know you’re all doing it so I can let my people know about the misunderstanding and stuff, but once that’s all finished I’ll finally be able to see my family again- right?” he asks.

You nod. ”Of course- and don’t worry about it. I did promise your safety after all” you say, putting your hand on his shoulder for a moment before joining everyone else on the deck.

The ship has a single, large sail over the mast- white with an image of a dove holding an olive branch. It reminds you of Peace, which brings mixed feelings of familiarity and camaraderie as well as disgust over the inferior ideology- but mostly the former.

>Do some FISHING before the boat gets moving proper
>Play a little one-armed flute to send off your ship
>Go meet this captain at the bridge
>Settle down on the deck and start researching your prosthetic (Upper limb anatomy or military engineering?)
>Get a bead on how everyone’s feeling about the journey
>Other (write in)

(2/2)
>>
>>4841229
>Go meet this captain at the bridge
Let's see what the deal with this guy is...
>>
>>4841229
>>Play a little one-armed flute to send off your ship
then
>Go meet this captain at the bridge
>>
>>4841229
>Go meet this captain at the bridge
Time to spill our spaghetti to the nearest woman nearby
>>
>>4841229
>Play a little one-armed flute to send off your ship
>Get a bead on how everyone’s feeling about the journey
>>
>>4841229
>Go meet this captain at the bridge
>Get a bead on how everyone’s feeling about the journey
>>
>>4841311
+1
>>
>>4841246
>>4841311
>>4841326
>>4841378
>>4841422
>>4841490
A little one-armed flute sendoff + go meet the captain

Roll me 1d20+2 (+3 for INT, +4 for Flute, -5 for One-armed) to play some one-handed flute.

Sorry for delays, by the way. Been trying to get this God awful lab to work. As a heads up, posts may be sparse and/or non-existent at usual tomorrow
>>
Rolled 15 + 2 (1d20 + 2)

>>4842110
>>
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https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XQz76UgHSzk

As the sloop begins to push off from the docks and set sail, your group gathering their bearings and exploring the ship, you lean over the rail of the deck and pull out your silver flute. It’s a bittersweet feeling seeing your trusty instrument. On one hand, it’s become a new hobby you enjoy that helps take your mind off all your worries, and you’ve gotten quite good at it. At the same time however, you may never be able to play it as well again now that your arm is missing- and it’s also a reminder of your relationship with Trina, the woman who gave it to you.

You put the instrument to your lips and close your eyes, playing a somber tune as your fingers find purchase on the various openings. It’s much more difficult to play with only one hand, and you occasionally hit the wrong note or don’t get your fingers to the right place in time, but overall it still sounds pretty good.

You do remember playing your flute perfectly well with one hand back in the sewers when you were rescuing Trina, which gives you hope that, with enough practice, you’ll be able to play just as well with only one hand as you did with two- though that may not even be a concern if you can get your prosthetic built.

Nevertheless, you let such thoughts melt away as you continue to play. You don’t need to let others see your tears or speak out about your deep thoughts and emotions. As long as you have music as an outlet, you’ll be able to express yourself and get by just fine.

Once you finish your haunting melody, you hear an unfamiliar voice speak up. ”Wow, that was depressing!”

You turn your head to see a woman has joined you. Based on what Jeffrey said and her outfit, you surmise she’s the captain. ”Shouldn’t you be steering the ship?” you ask.

She waves a hand dismissively. ”We’re going in a straight line- it’s not that hard. Besides, I won’t tell if you don’t!” she answers with a wry grin. You aren’t sure whether you find her demeanor charming or concerning, but you stash the flute away and offer your hand.

”Herald” you introduce yourself.

She takes your hand and shakes it firmly. ”Captain Osborne, at your service. You can just call me Scarlet though” she responds. She looks to be a little bit older than Clarissa, mid to late twenties, and has her blonde hair in a long braid that trails down to her shoulders.

>”So how’d you end up working with us?”
>”How long have you been a captain for?”
>”Do you play any instruments?”
>”Are you sure you shouldn’t be at the wheel right now?”
>Take your leave and go check in with your teammates
>Other (write in)
>>
>>4842196
>”So how’d you end up working with us?”
>>
>>4842196
>Other (write in)
Roll to Seduce
>>
>>4842196
>Take your leave and go check in with your teammates
>>
>>4842369
Im fucking retarded.

Switching from >>4842369
to
>”Do you play any instruments?”
>>
The votes still tied up and it's later than I expected so I'm gonna leave it here.

I got a lot to do tomorrow but I'll try to get an update or two out later in the day.

As always guys thanks for reading and playing A Herald's Journey!
>>
>>4842241
+1
>>
>>4842196
>>4842241
+1 this
>>
>>4842196
>”So how’d you end up working with us?”

4842247<<
found the shitter
>>
>>4842196
Not gonna lie QM
I love your drawings
>>4842241
This

QM what if we start training while using the flute, it should be hella hard to play an instrument while doing squats, running etc, an insane mixture of finesse, breath control and multi tasking
>>
>>4842241
+1, good question
>>
>>4842241
>>4842247
>>4842520
>>4842927
>>4842947
>>4843138
>>4843303
>>4843352
How'd you end up working for us?

Writing!

>>4843303
Thanks!
>>
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”So, how’d you end up working for us?”

”Ahh, curious about me, are you?” she asks, leaning over the railing and thinking for a moment. ”I was captaining merchant ships between here and Krosh’tar for the last few years, but once the trade stopped I didn’t really have much to do. I’ve just been working odd jobs to stay afloat in the meantime. Thankfully, my uncle’s the sergeant at the barracks, and he said he needed a captain for something and offered me the job” she explains.

”Wait, Jeffrey’s your uncle?”

”Yup! He’s my mom’s younger brother” she casually explains. ”Don’t you worry though, it’s not just nepotism- I’m perfectly capable of the actual job.”

”Fair enough” you say, deciding to break the conversation there for a moment and take in what she just said. If she’s really Jeffery’s niece, it may be worth it to try and get along with her and not cause any trouble. That said, she seems amicable enough, if a little easygoing- you doubt there will be any problems.

”My turn to ask a question!” she pipes up. ”What’s that song you just played? It was depressing, but it sounded pretty good.”

”Not a song, just something I played spontaneously” you answer with a shrug.

”Ooh, an adventurer and a musician- how novel” she teases before pushing herself off the rail. ”Well, the rest of the day is just gonna be smooth sailing. If you need anything, I’ll be back at the bridge” she says, jabbing a thumb in the respective direction.

You give her a curt nod. ”Understood, captain.”

You have a feeling the rest of the day is going to be fairly boring. The weather’s nice, hardly a cloud in the sky, but there’s only so much you can do on a boat. How do you choose to pass the day?

>Work on getting better at one-armed flute playing
>Researching your prosthetic (Upper limb anatomy or Military Engineering?)
>Relax and take it easy with some fishing!
>Hanging out with someone (Who? Any activity or thing you want to say in particular?)
>Other (write in)
>>
>>4844058
>Work on getting better at one armed flutr playing WHILE TRAINING THE REST OF OUR BODY!!!
>>
>>4844058
>Researching your prosthetic (Upper limb anatomy or Military Engineering?)
Limb
>>
>>4844058
>Researching your prosthetic (Upper Limb Anatomy)
>>
>>4844064
Just imagine a huge one armed buffed dude in plate armor playing the flute while jumping around like crazy
>>
>>4844064
+1
>>
>>4844058
>>4844064
+1. This is the kind of thinking that's gonna spread CONQUEST
>>
>>4844064
>>4844070
>>4844074
>>4844078
>>4844092
>>4844111
Train and play the flute!

Roll 1d20-1 (+3 for INT, +4 for Flute, -5 for One-armed, -3 for Multi-tasking)
>>
Rolled 8 - 1 (1d20 - 1)

>>4844450
>>
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*Total roll: 7*

With the deck and the day to yourself, you bust the flute out again and begin to play it one-armed...WHILE exercising! Okay, exercising without any arms available is a bit challenging, but you still do some squats and jog around the deck while you play.

It’s… incredibly difficult. The lack of support from your missing arm makes it hard enough to just hold the flute, let alone get any of the notes while trying to work out. Additionally, the exercise naturally tires you out the longer you go, making it even harder to play on beat and causing you to sometimes just let out a loud noise when you don’t get the flute away from your mouth before exhaling.

Overall it’s quite embarrassing. However, after doing it for the better part of a day, you feel as though you got a great workout with your legs, AND it’s a little bit easier to play the flute one-armed now. Keep this up and you’ll be able to play just like normal again!

That said, the activity has left you sweaty and exhausted, and you end up retiring below deck. It seems the other three and Grug are all playing cards and chatting at a table in a sort of hub room. You give them a quick wave before heading to the room where you see Barret’s stuff- you suppose that’s where you guys are sleeping while the girls take the other one.

You set your bag and weapons beside one of the berths and plop yourself onto it, closing your eyes and drifting off into a peaceful slumber.

You wake up bright and early the next morning, Grug and Barret still asleep. Entering the kitchen, you find yourself alone with none of the rations open yet- which lets you surmise that you’re the only one awake. You pop open one of the tins in the crates and chow down. By the time you finish, Barret joins you, and Jeanne soon after. Clarissa is still asleep it seems, same with Grug, and the captain’s either still sleeping or has already headed up to the bridge without breakfast.

”Surprised you didn’t come down last night, boss man. You missed a wild game of poker” Barret remarks as he pops open a tin of rations for himself.

”I’ll have plenty of time to join you for games at some point- we’ve still got almost a full two weeks until we reach Krosh’tar” you respond. ”I hope my...activities last night didn’t bother you” you say, feeling a little embarrassed at recalling the results of your multi-task training.

Jeanne waves a hand dismissively, waiting until she finishes a bite from her ration before speaking up. ”Don’t worry about it, we could barely hear anything down here.”

>Resolve to spend some time with the crew as a whole today
>Ask Jeanne about teaching you magic
>Ask if Barret wants to spar
>See if Grug can’t teach you some Orc
>Research your prosthetic (Upper limb or engineering?)
>Do some FISHIN
>More flute playing!
>More exercise!
>Visit the captain (What do you say or ask?)
>Other (write in)
>>
>>4844572
>Do some FISHIN
Gone
Gon' fishin
>>
>>4844572
I think we may need a harmonica in the future
>Do some FISHIN
Out here in the big blue, you know the sea god is watching us
>>
>>4844572
>Do some FISHIN
+
>More flute playing!

Multitasking will be second nature for herald

>Play the flute while paying attention to the fishing rod
>>
>>4844572
>Resolve to spend some time with the crew as a whole today
>>
>>4844572
>Do some FISHIN
Maybe see if Barret or anyone wants to join us!
>>
>spends some time with the crew today

Need to catch up with the team and see how everyone is doing.

I don't know why we are focused so much on practicing the flute when we barely use it.

As an aside I think we should swing by the bridge with some rations and check in on the captain, if she hasn't eaten she may well of over slept and still be in bed!
>>
>>4845009
Personally more than the flute i want herald to think and process information faster so he can do more and faster, combat included

If you can pay attention to multiple things at the same time it would be a lot harder to catch you off guard and a lot easier perceive your environment, for example

We could be investigating at a pub talking to someone while simultaneously keeping track and studying another possible target in the same room or the stuff in the room itself

The boon we recently got >Mentally Resilient could be a nice base for that kind of growth since it says his mind is stronger

I might be wrong tho only QM knows

TLDR: Multitasking might make Herald be able to use
>On my orders
Without loosing a turn or even take 2 actions in a single turn
>>
>>4844604
>>4844608
>>4844742
>>4844803
>>4844848
>>4845009
Do some FISHIN!

>>4845067
>TLDR: Multitasking might make Herald be able to use
>>On my orders
>Without loosing a turn or even take 2 actions in a single turn

This is not the case. 'On my orders' works that way for balance, and being able to multi-task wouldn't make you attack faster. If you continued to multi-task a lot it might make it easier to do tasks simultaneously, but by and large I'd still prefer to avoid making it TOO gamey and just have turns be a list of queuing up actions.

Roll me 1d20+5 (+3 for WIS, +2 for Fishing) to see what you catch!

1-10: Black Sea Bass (Serves 1)
11-17: Mahi Mahi (Serves 2)
18-22: Marlin (Serves 4)
23+: Swordfish (Serves 12, Mad Fishing Cred)
>>
Rolled 19 + 5 (1d20 + 5)

>>4845320
>>
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>>4845324
>try to roll a 1
>roll a 19
>>
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https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Zfs3BJZxKkc

”Actually, you wanna come hang out with me Barret?” you ask, pointing a thumb towards the stairs.

The fighter finishes the last bite of his ration before answering. ”Of course, boss man! What do you have in mind? Training? Sparring? Talking battle strategies?” he asks, eyes wide with excitement.

”Uhh, I was more thinking along the lines of...of fishing” you tell him.

”Oh- yeah uhh, fishing’s cool too. Used to do a little occasionally with my dad down by the lake. I think I’ve got my rod packed away, hang on” he says, reaching into his bag of holding for a moment before producing a fancy looking fishing pole- probably the nicest thing you’ve ever seen him use or own.

Giving him a knowing nod, the two of you head up to the deck and bait your hooks. You pull over the crates filled with cannonballs so the two of you have somewhere to sit before casting your lines out into the water.

A few minutes pass before Barret speaks up. ”So, this is kinda fun. You and me, out on the water and whatnot- kinda reminds me of hanging out with my dad” he says. ”I didn’t know you fished too, never heard you bring it up or seen you cast a line.”

You shrug. ”Picked it up recently. It’s very peaceful and...relaxing. Helps me clear my head a bit” you answer.

”Yeah, I know what you mean. Really lets you experience the Gods’ creation and whatnot” he says, letting out a loud exhale as he sinks into his seat.

Not long after, you feel a powerful pull on your rod- one so strong you’re surprised your rod doesn’t snap in half! Using all your strength, you grip the rod between your feet and start reeling, but this son of a bitch on the other end is tough!

”Oh shit, you got a bite? Nice!” Barret exclaims, probably not realizing how much you’re struggling. Hell, you feel like you might be dragged into the water! You focus all your strength and energy on the task at hand, and after a long battle, you finally swing back and yank the massive haul onto the ship, the animal landing behind you with a loud thump!

Turning to face it, you and Barret’s jaws both drop at the site of the massive, hulking swordfish! It’s easily over a thousand pounds, and to be honest you have no fucking clue how your rod didn’t break or how you even got it up here with one arm, but you sure as hell aren’t complaining!

”Can I get a fucking yee yee?” you ask, not even understanding the words as they come out of your mouth.

”Yee yee!” Barret enthusiastically responds.

(1/2)
>>
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While you deal with killing the swordfish and getting it stashed into your bag of holding, you hear a shout of surprise from Barret. ”Oh shit, I think I got a big one too, boss man!” he says, beginning to real in his rod- even going as far as to stand up from his seat and move back. Damn, what you wouldn’t give for two arms!

By the time you finish squeezing your giant ass fish into your bag, you hear a shout of surprise as Barret yanks up the line, revealing a strange sight on the other end. Flying through the air towards the deck on his hook is a creature that seems as though it’s neither fish nor man- though it’s quite disgusting. It’s got some sort of tunic made of kelp around its crotch, but is otherwise naked.

The monster plops onto the deck, and immediately you feel revulsion towards it, taking a few steps back and snarling. ”Oh shit, it’s a merman!” Barret calls out, sounding worried as he quickly digs the hook out of its mouth and stands it upright. ”Sorry about that fella, you alright?”

The merman says something in a language neither of you understand, but makes a vague ‘OK’ gesture with its webbed hand as best it can before turning its attention to you. At first it speaks in its strange language, which only causes you to be more disgusted and put off by the abomination, but eventually has some sort of realization and starts pointing towards its head. Does it want you to form a mental connection and speak with it?

>”Get the fuck off this ship before I gut you” (Hostile)
>”Who the hell are you? What do you want?” (Cautious)
>”You alright?” (Vaguely Friendly)
>Other (write in)

(2/2)
>>
>>4845370
>Remember the sea god's blessing. Could this be his doing?
>”Who the hell are you? What do you want?” (Cautious)
Caution fits better here, not to mention more in line with Herald's sapient supremacy
>>
>>4845370
>”You alright?” (Vaguely Friendly)

>>4845375
That's only for non-sapient creatures.
>>
>>4845385
Apologies if it wasn't made clear- the merman most certainly is a non-sapient race. Thats why the nicest option available is posed as only vaguely friendly and why disgust was brought up so much etc
>>
>>4845370
>”You alright?” (Vaguely Friendly)
>Ask Barret what he knows about these guys--are they DANGEROUS!?
>>
>>4845370
>”Get the fuck off this ship before I get you off this plane of existence.” (Hostile)
Finally the good stuff. Speciest Herald is the Doom Slayer of fantasy monsters.

If we get Fishing 10, can we attempt to fish with crossbow?
>>
>>4845370
>”You alright?” (Vaguely Friendly)
>>
>>4845472
+1
>>
>>4845375
>>4845385
>>4845452
>>4845462
>>4845472
>>4845482
"You alright?"

Writing!
>>
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Before you engage with this disgusting creature, you grab Barret’s arm and pull him close to you, whispering in his ear. You don’t think this thing can understand your language, but better safe than sorry. ”What do you know about these guys? Are they dangerous?” you ask him.

The fighter shrugs. ”I don’t know, boss man. I lived in the center of the continent most of my life- I’ve only heard of them before: fish-like people who live underwater. I don’t know if they’re dangerous or not” he admits.

You suck in your teeth and let go of his arm, staring at the freaky fish guy before you. He awkwardly waves his webbed hand at you as you form a mental connection with the creature. You’ll play it safe for now and try to be nice.

You alright?

Ah, it’s true! Just like the Sea Lord said, you really can speak to us through your mind! Yes, I’m perfectly fine! he responds.

What the hell is a Sea Lord?

My apologies, I believe the people on the surface refer to him as the God of the Sea. His true name is Aemis the merman answers.

Wait, the Gods actually give a shit about the non-sapient races? Gross! Well, you suppose these freaks of nature do live in the ocean, after all. Who are you?

My name is Gill, and I’m a priest of the Sea Lord. I’ve come here seeking your aid, brave Herald of Conquest!

Wait, this thing knows who you are…? You go to cross your arms, but remember you only have the one and end up awkwardly hugging underneath your stump. And why would I help you?

The Sea Lord told me you might say something like that. He said if you ask why you should help or refuse us, that I am to say that you ‘owe him one’.

Fuck.

-END OF THREAD 4-
>>
Going to give myself somewhere between a few days to maybe a little over a week to get my affairs in order and relax a little, get some stuff planned as well before starting Thread 5.

You can find this thread, as well as the others, archived here: http://suptg.thisisnotatrueending.com/qstarchive.html?searchall=a+herald%27s+journey

If you want to interact with me, you can find my Twitter here: https://twitter.com/HeraldQm

I'm also pretty easy to get a hold of on Discord if you're in the QTG discord.

As always, thank you guys so much for reading and playing A Herald's Journey. See you soon!
>>
>>4845555
Motherfucker
Well, here starts the Underwater Boogaloo arc!
>>4845560
As always thank you QM for your hard work
>>
>>4845560
Thanks for running, man--it's been an absolute blast! Can't wait for the FISH ARC!
>>
>>4845560
We look forward to it QM! I'm having such a good time
>>
>>4845560
Thanks for running.
>>
>>4845560
You better not fucking drop this quest QM, it's too good
>>
>>4845560
God speed.
>>
>>4845560
Hope we see you soon



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