>>6108238
>Follow the suspicious man's tracks

>>6108238
>Follow the suspicious man's tracks
Fourth time’s the charm.

>>6108238
>Follow the suspicious man's tracks

>>6108243
>>6108266
>>6108277
You follow the suspicious man's tracks through the forest, keeping low and moving quietly. Dozer is alert beside you, sniffing at the ground and occasionally pointing in the right direction. The trail leads you deeper into the woods until you hear faint voices ahead.

Carefully approaching the source of the sound, you find a vantage point behind some thick foliage. There stands the suspicious man from before, speaking to two scalemen armed with wicked-looking weapons. He's gesturing animatedly, directing them toward the area where he last saw you.

Dozer begins to growl softly, mirroring the rage boiling within you. Your grip tightens on your own scaleman weapon as you feel the urge to leap out and ambush them right now. But then you feel Iladj's hand on your shoulder.

"Mlakli," he whispers urgently. "We are outnumbered. We must be wise about this."

"But we have Dozer," you whisper back through clenched teeth. "And we have surprise on our side, fi we strike quickly."

Iladj nods slowly but insists on caution. "It's true, but scalemen are dangerous, and there may be more who will miss these ones even if we kill them."

The choice ahead is clear to you:

>Find and throw some rocks from a distance
>Charge in and engage the scalemen directly
>Sneak closer to listen in
>Stay hidden and wait to see where they go and what they do next

>>6108302
>Sneak closer to listen in

>>6108302
>>Stay hidden and wait to see where they go and what they do next

>>6108602
>>6108409
You motion for Iladj and Dozer to stay close as you creep closer to the trio, trying to catch their conversation. Hidden behind a thick bush, you can now clearly hear the man's voice, overly eager and subservient, as he speaks to the scalemen in a tone that turns your stomach.

"Masters, masters, I tell you, they were right over there! I saw them with my own eyes!" he whines. The scalemen respond with grunted disdain and barely concealed contempt.

"Silence, monkey. You will show us, or you will be made to suffer," one of them growls, its voice hissing and full of menace.

The man’s groveling and fawning behavior disgusts you deeply. It’s as if he has become less than human, a pathetic hunting hound begging for scraps and approval from its cruel masters. Your fists clench instinctively, feeling a mix of anger and deep disappointment towards this member of your own race.

Iladj places a calming hand on your shoulder. "Let us see where they go and what they do next. We must be patient," he whispers.

Though Iladj's words are wise, something in you wants to see what happens next when they return to the camp and find nothing there. Despite Iladj's hesitance, you both follow at a distance, moving as silently as the shifting shadows.

Soon enough, the scalemen and their collaborator arrive at the now-deserted camp. Finding nothing, the scalemen turn on the man with fury. They begin to belittle him with harsh words, accusing him of lying.

“I swear, masters! They were here!” he insists, but this only earns him a savage beating. Each blow causes him to whimper in pain, yet his pleading doesn't cease.

"Iladj," you whisper urgently, feeling conflicted. "This man... despite his betrayal, should we let this happen?"

Iladj sighs softly. "He is earning his punishment through his own actions, Mlakli. Sometimes fate delivers justice without our intervention."

Yet you aren't sure. Watching this pitiful figure being beaten by your hated foes ignites a conflict within you...

>Intervene with force, to save the stranger and slay the scalemen
>Let the scalemen tire themselves out and finish beating the stranger, then strike
>While these scalemen are busy, follow their tracks back to wherever they came from
>Reveal yourself and attempt to negotiate

>>6108669
>>Intervene with force, to save the stranger and slay the scalemen
I am my brother's keeper

>>6108669
>Let the scalemen tire themselves out and finish beating the stranger, then strike

If he dies, he dies. We need more scaleman weapons to mount an effective defense or offense.

>>6108669
>Let the scalemen tire themselves out and finish beating the stranger, then strike
We can only hope the guy doesn’t die.

>>6108762
>>6108729
>>6108685
You decide to let the scalemen tire themselves out and finish beating the stranger before you strike. After all, this man is not your brother. If he dies, he dies. You need more scaleman weapons to mount an effective defense or offense, and these two monsters have what you require.

Yet watching the scene fills you with a whirlwind of emotions. Seeing those monstrosities mocking and taunting a fellow human as they work him over brings back bad memories—painful recollections of your own people suffering at their hands. Your blood boils with a thirst for vengeance rather than sympathy. Despite your innermost fury, you hold yourself back and keep Dozer from lunging forward, his snarls muffled by your gentle but firm grip.

"Miserable filth," one scaleman hisses, driving its heel into the man’s ribs. "Lying to get extra privileges again?"

"N-no, they were here... I swear!"

"Useless!" the other scaleman sneers, striking him across the face with his clawed toes, hard enoguh to open three scored gashes across his cheek. "You let them escape!"

The assault on the stranger continues until he is bloodied, bruised, and barely breathing. Just as the scalemen begin to slow down and lose their interest in further kicking around the broken man, you seize the moment.

"Now!" you shout, and you, Iladj, and Dozer spring into action.

The ambush is swift and fierce. Dozer leaps onto one scaleman, sinking his teeth into its scaly hide. You and Iladj engage the remaining one with weapons in hand.

>Roll 1d100, Bo3! DC Lowered from 70 to 40.

Rolled 92 (1d100)

>>6108793
Cowabunga!!!!!

Rolled 47 (1d100)

>>6108793

Rolled 37 (1d100)

>>6108793

>>6109014
>>6108873
>>6108819
With a shout, you rush forward, your grip firm on the scaleman blade. Iladj is right behind you, his stone axe poised for a lethal blow. The scalemen react with surprising speed, their wicked weapons drawn in an instant. Despite their greater height, flexibility, and strength, surprise and their exhaustion work against them.

Dozer lunges at the first scaleman, his protective coat shielding him from its counterattack. You see the scaleman swipe at Dozer's back, but the tough hide you fitted him with absorbs the blow, turning a potentially fatal strike into a glancing one. You feel a surge of gratitude for your earlier work as Dozer clamps down on the scaleman's arm with ferocity.

Iladj swings his axe at the second scaleman, the force causing it to stagger. You take the opportunity to slice at its exposed side, your blade finding flesh. The scaleman hisses in pain, its dark blood flowing freely. Despite its strength, the combined attacks leave it struggling to maintain its footing.

The first scaleman, distracted by Dozer’s relentless assault, is unable to defend itself effectively. Using teamwork, you and Iladj manage to drive both scalemen to the ground, their greater strength waning against your coordinated strikes and their own exhaustion. Dozer’s snarls mixed with the scalemen’s hisses create a cacophony of battle, but your focus remains sharp and unyielding.

Within minutes, the forest is silent except for the heavy breaths you and Iladj take and the whimpers of the stranger. You look at the fallen scalemen, their bodies sprawled lifelessly on the forest floor. A part of you notes with satisfaction that despite their formidable nature, it was teamwork and preparedness that won the day.

You glance at the stranger, bloody and beaten but still alive. His eyes meet yours, a mixture of fear and hope within them. First, you turn to the scalemen. The cold, emotionless demeanor of the last one you tortured flashes in your mind. It’s clear to you that interrogating these enemies won’t yield results, but the rage inside you simmers and demands an outlet.

Iladj’s concerned gaze turns to you. He’s seen this look before. He knows what you’re contemplating. The choice weighs heavily on your mind—should you inflict torture again, surrendering to that dark urge for vengeance, or kill them quickly and move on?

>Torture on the scalemen
> Kill the scalemen quickly

Next, your attention shifts to the beaten stranger. Trust is a commodity too precious to give freely. Yet, leaving him here could be a death sentence, and he could be useful. The thought of bringing a known traitor back with you also stirs unease.

> Leave the stranger where he is
> Bring the stranger along
> Kill him to remove a potential threat
> Take the stranger back to the cave to nurse him back to health

>>6109016
DOG ARMOR FTW
>Kill the scalemen quickly
>Bring the stranger along

>>6109016
>Torture on the scalemen
> Take the stranger back to the cave to nurse him back to health

>>6109016
>Kill the scalemen quickly
>Take the stranger back to the cave to nurse him back to health

>>6109060
>>6109061
>>6109076
You spare no time deliberating further; you move swiftly, ending the scalemen’s lives with decisive strikes. The relief of their silence is immediate, but you feel a pang of regret, like they got off too easily.

You turn to Iladj, who looks relieved at your decision. He already seems to know your next steps, and with a nod, you begin scavenging the scalemen’s weapons and gear.

"Help me gather their weapons and belts. We can use these to carry what we need," you instruct Iladj. He nods, though his gaze shifts back to the beaten stranger with a hint of concern.

"About this one," Iladj begins, hesitating as he unties a leather strap which is some of the only attire teh scalemen wear. "What do we intend to do with him?"

You pause, considering the pitiful figure before you. His survival seems uncertain, but there's value in nursing him back to health—not out of kindness, but necessity. "We'll mend his wounds and help him heal. Once he’s strong enough, he can answer questions about his masters and their captives."

Iladj agrees with a slow nod. "A wise idea, though it may take time. The scalemen may get further away, making it harder to track them."

Your jaw clenches at the thought, seething silently. But you force yourself to see the logic in it. "This is the only way," you insist, your voice firm.

As you pull a leather belt free, it hits you—these aren't regualr animal-hide straps which the scalemen are using to carry their things. You nearly drop the handful of weapons in horror and disgust, realizing they are made from human skin. The grotesque realization churns your stomach, but you force yourself to power through it. Each piece you gather, each strap wound over your arm, is a silent reaffirmation of your oath to save (or avenge) your people.

Together, you and Iladj carry the stranger back to the cave. The journey feels longer, burdened by the implications of what you carry, and by the stranger's limp weight. You keep moving anyway, determination fueling each step.

Reaching the cave, the reality of the situation hits. The battered man is in no shape to climb and hoisting him up is not feasible.

"We can't just leave him here alone," Iladj says, his voice tinged with fatigue.

The older man is right. Animals could come for the wounded and unconscious collaborator, who would be easy prey. Someone must say down with him. Iladj has knowledge of medicine, but he is also older, and seems wearier than even you feel.

>You will stay outside the cave with the man
>Iladj should tend to the man
>you will both stay below, in shifts
>You will leave Dozer to guard the stranger alone while you both rest

>>6109298
>You will both stay below, in shifts
>Prepare some traps to help secure the area
Like we did with the snake, althought we probably have less time, we can see what we can produce. Even if they only alert us instead of hurting the animal or predator, it will still give us an advantage in reacting to any threats.

Overjoyed to see this quest continue btw!

>>6109298
>you will both stay below, in shifts

>>6109361
+1
Some kind of chimes or noise makers if nothing else

>>6109361
>>6109380
>>6109439
With the stranger in tow, you and Iladj decide it's best to stay below the cave and take turns keeping watch. As the two of you set the stranger down, his rough, labored breathing a harsh reminder of his condition, you begin to consider ways to secure the area.

"We'll prepare some traps," you say, recollecting the method you used to catch the snake. "Even basic ones could be useful."

Iladj, despite his weariness, assists you in gathering materials. The scalemen's leather straps will be particularly helpful. You focus on making simple but effective warning devices, reasoning that anything which gives you advanced notice of an intruder could be crucial.

Using the leather straps and bones from the deer you previously hunted, you craft rudimentary tripwires. These might not stop a determined predator or enemy, but the noise can alert you early. You lash branches together and place the bones to rattle against stones when triggered—a makeshift clapper system mimicking natural chimes.

As you work, Iladj takes the first rest shift, his tired eyes closing not long after he lays down. You watch him for a moment, the exhaustion etched into his features a stark reminder that age spares none. The stranger sleeps uneasily, his body twitching and groaning under the roughness of his slumbers.

You try to put aside any lingering anger. More than once your arm twitches to drive a blade through his chest, thinking of how this collaborator had likely spied on other humans to sell them out to the scalemen. Instead, you focus on the task at hand.

Hours pass in tense vigilance. You run your hands over the edge of the scalemen’s blades, testing their sharpness and ensuring the traps are firmly set. You wish for finer tools and more time but make do with what you have.

Inventory:
>Stone axe
>3 Scaleman blades
>Deer meat (some)
>Herbs
>Scaleman skin (portion used for Dozer's protective coat)
>Snakeskin
>Stone knife
>Leather straps (from scalemen)
>Primitive noise-makers and tripwires

Iladj stirs and wakes. You share some of the remaining deer meat quietly. He silently takes in the chime system you rigged and gives a nod of approval.

As you lay down, exhausted, you watch Iladj set out his herbs and begin tending to the collaborator's injuries.

"Rest now," Iladj murmurs. "We'll need our strength."

You lay down upon the bare ground, and Dozer joins you, scooting his body close to yours. The movements of Iladj working, combined with the labored but regular sound of the stranger's breath, lull you into a much-needed sleep.

>Roll 1d100, Bo3, to see if the night pass without event

Rolled 49 (1d100)

>>6109488

Rolled 18 (1d100)

>>6109488

Rolled 47 (1d100)

>>6109488

>>6109490
>>6109516
>>6109630
The night is deep, blanketed by the chorus of nocturnal creatures. You lie in an uneasy slumber, your exhaustion a heavy shroud. Suddenly, a sharp, rattling noise jolts you awake. The crude chimes you set earlier are clattering frantically.

You snap to attention, instantly alert. Dozer is already on his feet, hackles raised, a low growl rumbling from his throat. The stranger remains unconscious, slathered in salves, his breath coming in ragged gasps. Iladj is crouched protectively over him, eyes wide in alarm and body tense.

Your eyes meet Iladj's. He leans in close, breath warm against your ear as he whispers, "Something big... striped... slinked into the shadows."

You stifle a curse, your instincts screaming predator. The night conceals a menace that watches, waits. You strain your senses, scanning the darkness, yet see nothing.

Thoughts race through your mind. A lurking beast, perhaps a sabertooth, one of Nature's cruelest hunters. Each beat of your heart tolls a warning; swift action is required.

You consider your options carefully, knowing that every moment could tip the balance between life and death.

>Go towards the sound with Dozer
>Stay put and mount a defense
>Rush to climb into the cave
>Use the scaleman collaborator as bait

>>6109634
>Stay put and mount a defense

>>6109634
>Toss the rest of our deer meat as far as we can, to distract or lure away the predator.
>Stay put and mount a defense.

>>6109671
+1

>>6109655
>>6109671
>>6109772

Your mind races, weighing options as the sound of those rattling bones echoes through the otherwise silent night. Quietly, you whisper your pan as it formulates: to use the rest of your deer meat as a distraction.

You see Iladj's concern in his eyes when he whispers urgently, "If we throw the rest of our food, what will we eat?"

“We’ll worry about that after we ensure WE don’t get eaten,” you respond firmly.

You scrabble for the remaining deer meat, the tender smoked slices that had once promised peace of mind now turning into a desperate distraction. Gathering as much as you can, you feel Dozer press against your leg in anxious closeness.

Steeling yourself, you toss the deer meat as far from your position as possible, hoping the scent will lure the predator away.

A moment’s breath passes, a gut-wrenching silence, before the night rustles again. You hear it—a low, rumbling growl. Emerging from the shadows, a massive beast pads forward on silent paws. In the moonlight, you see its striped, muscular body, powerful and lithe, its amber eyes catching the light and its ears swiveling towards the whimpering stranger. The silhouette reveals its fangs—curving, elongated ivory weapons that remind you uncomfortably of the scalemen's own cruel blades.

The predator prowls towards the meat you threw, massive claws making near-silent steps in the underbrush, a predator accustomed to killing effortlessly. It sniffs the air, then the ground, before glancing towards the whimpering man. The striped cat hesitates, its instincts torn between the easy meal and the wounded prey it was already stalking.

You grip your scaleman blade tightly, positioning yourself protectively before Iladj and the stranger. Meanwhile, Iladj stands at your side with the stone axe, his lips set in a determined line. Dozer’s growling intensifies, fangs bared, ready for a fight.

The beast sniffs towards the deer meat, uncertain. It takes a step towards the food, then another towards the stranger. Uncertainty dances in its eyes—it’s close enough for you to see the raw hunger flickering there.

The striped predator lashes its tail once, twice, in indecision. Each moment feels like an eternity, your muscles coiled tightly like springs. You know that if it decides the whimpering man is easier prey, it will take all your combined strength to fend it off.

>Roll 1d100, Bo3!

Rolled 95 (1d100)

>>6109952

Rolled 61 (1d100)

>>6109952

Rolled 40 (1d100)

>>6109952

>>6110043
>>6110058
>>6110092
You hold your breath as the great striped cat pads closer to the scattered deer meat. Its tail whips back and forth, the low rumble of its growl reverberating through the night. But then, by some stroke of fortune, the beast seems mollified by the offering. Its tense posture gradually relaxes as it turns its full attention to the food.

Slowly, cautiously, the predator drags some of the meat into the jungle. For a moment, it pauses, turning its gaze back toward you and the others. You see a shift—a calmer disposition, almost a sense of recognition and maybe a glint of curious intelligence flickers in its amber eyes. It carries a significant portion of the meat into the darkness, but leaves about half behind.

Once the coast is clear, you rush to gather the remaining meat. Your hands tremble slightly as you quickly scoop up the strips, your heartbeat gradually returning to a more manageable pace.

As you secure the food, you allow yourself a moment to reflect on the creature. In another life, it might have been your doom, yet you can't help but admire it for its predatory beauty. The sleek, muscular build, the calculated grace—it’s a marvel of nature. Your admiration is in no way tempered by the stark reality of its lethal potential.

Iladj’s voice breaks your reverie. "A beast which grows to associate men with food will often make men into food." His words are a sobering reminder, one you know all too well as a herder.

Still, a wild fantasy flits through your mind—an image of this magnificent creature, tamed and unleashed upon the scalemen. It’s an indulgent daydream, but one you can’t help but entertain, if only for a moment.

---

The next day breaks with a muted light filtering through the canopy. The dawn is quiet, the camp still. You’re feeling the effects of the interrupted sleep, a lingering weariness pulling at your limbs. Yet there is work to be done.

You take stock of the remaining deer meat, noticing that the pile is now significantly depleted. The stranger, now somewhat wakeful, lies quietly, a look of fear and uncertainty etched on his face. Iladj has tended to his wounds with the herbs and salves, but the man remains wary and silent.

Your options for the morning lay before you, each with its own set of challenges. Foraging for plants and herbs could replenish your resources and provide some immediate food. Hunting in the blade-toothed tiger’s territory promises meat but carries significant risk. Or you could prioritize finding answers, interrogating the wounded collaborator to learn what he knows of the scalemen and their plans.

>Forage for plants and herbs
>Hunt in the tiger’s territory
>Interrogate the wounded collaborator
>Write-in

>>6110103
>Interrogate the wounded collaborator

>>6110103
>>Forage for plants and herbs

>>6110103
>Prepare a way for the man to be hauled into the cave

>>6110128
>>6110154
>>6110162
You motion for Iladj to join you. He leans in, listening as you outline the plan—a balance between extracting vital information and maintaining the harsh discipline that a traitor to your kind deserves. Mercy isn't a luxury you can afford, and information is worth its weight in blood.

You approach the stranger with measured steps, crouching beside him. His wary eyes dart between you, Iladj, and Dozer, still reeling from the beating he received.

"You've two choices," you intone. "Speak truth about the scalemen and their plans, or face the tiger alone tonight."

The stranger’s eyes widen in fear. For a moment, rebellion flashes in his gaze. But confronted by Iladj's unyielding stare and Dozer's low growl, he swallows thickly and nods.

"I'll talk," he concedes, voice shaking. "But... get me to safety first."

Using the leather straps and sturdy branches you've salvaged, you fashion a makeshift harness to haul the injured man up into the relative security of the cave. It takes the better par of the morning and early afternoon, and no small amount of trial and error.

Inventory:
>Stone axe
>3 Scaleman blades
>Deer meat (meager)
>Herbs (some)
>Scaleman skin (portion used for Dozer's protective coat)
>Snakeskin
>Stone knife
>Primitive noise-makers and tripwires (in place)
>Leather straps (used for makeshift harness)

Once settled inside, the collaborator seems marginally less terrified, though not by much.

"Start talking," you command. "Tell us everything."

What do you ask the man?
>Write-in

What is his name?
>Write-in

>>6110313
>What do you ask the man?
How long have you been with the scalemen?
How many scalemen were in your group?
Were there any other humans? If so, how many?
Do you know where they’d all be at this moment?
>What is his name?
Iscariot.

>>6110313
>How are your wounds healing?
>Where are you from?
>How old are you?
>What did you do before you joined the scalemen?
>Why were you helping them?

>Qerot

>>6110313
>"Why did you lie to us before, how can we know you speak the truth now?"
>"What besides intel on the scalemen can you offer us, what skills do you have?"
>"Will the scalemen be alarmed now that not one, but three of them are missing, are we safe here?"

>Qerot

>>6110333
>>6110629
>>6110694
The makeshift harness strains under the stranger's weight, but you and Iladj manage to pull him up into the cave. His bruised and battered form looks even more pitiful up close. He flinches as you approach, but soon realizes he has no way out. His eyes dart nervously as you begin your interrogation with a simple question his name:

"Qerot."

"Why did you lie to us before?" you ask, your voice steady but firm.

Qerot’s head hangs low, his reply barely louder than a whisper. "Survival," he admits, sounding ashamed but resigned. "I must be useful to the scalemen or die."

You nod and press on. "How can we know you speak the truth now?"

He meets your gaze, desperation evident. "You're the ones asking me, and listening to me," he counters wearily. "You tell me."

You frown. "How long have you been with the scalemen?"

"Three years," he says, eyes glazing over with unwanted memories. "Since my tribe was attacked."

You exchange a glance with Iladj, and your next question is already forming on your lips. "How many scalemen were in your group?"

"I... I'm not sure. They all look alike," he admits, frustration and fear intermingled. "Their groups merged and broke apart all the time. The most I’ve ever seen at once is fifty."

The implications of such a number hit hard: this is more scalemen than you have ever seen humans. You struggle to maintain your composure. "Were there any other humans? And if so, how many?"

His eyes fill with tears. "Yes... my family," he murmurs, voice cracking. "They'll be punished for my absence, especially once the dead scalemen are discovered."

Qerot's despair is palpable, bringing a pang of understanding. Your questions have shaken him. You've asked enough for now about the scalemen.

Switching your tone, you ask, "How are your wounds healing?"

"Well enough," he responds brusquely, though he clams up quickly afterward.

Iladj leans in, whispering just for you to hear. "The wounds are mostly superficial. He’ll recover enough to walk and run by tomorrow, though not well or quickly, and not without pain."

You nod slightly, grateful for the healer’s insight. The interrogation continues, but your approach is now gentler.

"Where are you from?"

"The flat, dry spaces inland," Qerot answers, his voice tinged with a hint of nostalgia. "Vast, open grasslands that stretch as far as the eye can see. My people moved towards the coast during a drought, years before we were captured."

Something about the way he speaks of his homeland, romanticizes even, paints a vivid picture in your mind. "How old are you?" you ask.

"Nearly thirty winters," Qerot replies. He looks older, but you can see the youth hidden beneath the layers of hardship and suffering.

"What did you do before you joined the scalemen?"

"Farmed grain and hunted," he explains.

>>6110731
You’re familiar with hunting, but the concept of 'farming' eludes you, even once Qerot explains further. You turn to Iladj, who seems equally puzzled. "It sounds like the growing of herbs," Iladj offers tentatively, "but over vast space."

You shake off the distraction. "What else can you offer us besides information about the scalemen? What skills do you have?"

"I have nothing. I am nothing," Qerot's voice is hollow, despair deepening his tone. His spirit seems shattered entirely.

A darker line of inquiry forms. "Will the scalemen be alarmed now that not one, but three of them are missing? Are we safe here?"

He laughs bitterly, a sound full of hopelessness. "Safety doesn't exist for our kind. My family will die, and so will you... Humans are no match for scalemen."

An uneasy silence falls. Your heart aches for your family and your people, yet your resolve to save your people and seek your revenge remains ironclad.

"Do you know where they’d all be at this moment?" you ask one final, desperate question.

Qerot doesn’t answer, his emotions boiling over into silence. Anger and sadness collide within him, rendering him mute.

The tension in the cave is thick. You've learned some, but there’s so much more to uncover. How you proceed could dictate the fate of everyone you know and love, and maybe others as well.

>Torture Qerot for information
>Appeal to his common humanity, try to befriend him
>Promise to save his family (TRUTH)
>Promise to save his family (LIE)

>>6110732
>>Promise to save his family (TRUTH)
Great quest so far qm

>>6110732
>Promise to save his family (TRUTH)

>>6110749
>>6110754
+1

>offer to accept him, but ask him how you can ensure that he will not abandon or betray us at the first opportunity.

>>6110749
>>6110754
>>6110777
>>6110785
Your eyes narrow as you look at Qerot, his hollow gaze meeting yours. A storm of emotions brews inside you—anger, pity, an overwhelming need for vengeance. But there’s something more. The memory of the scalemen attack on your tribe flashes vividly in your mind—the screams, the bloodshed, the helplessness. Your people, your family, taken from you in a brutal instant. The leather straps you salvaged from the scalemen—a grotesque testament to their cruelty—catch your eye, solidifying your resolve.

“Qerot,” you say, voice firm yet devoid of judgment. “We will save your family. That’s a promise.”

His eyes widen slightly, a flicker of hope mingling with disbelief. “But why?” he asks, voice trembling. “Why would you risk yourselves for me? For them?”

“Because,” you reply, stepping closer, “we're humans. Humans must stand together against these monsters.”

Iladj nods in agreement, his eyes softening as he looks at Qerot. “It’s not just your family that needs saving. Your knowledge could help us all survive.”

You lean in, your voice dropping to a whisper. “How can we ensure that you won’t betray us or flee at the first opportunity?”

Qerot shrugs sullenly, his shoulders slumping. “You can’t,” he admits, eyes downcast. “I’ve already proven myself a coward and a betrayer.” His tone is bitter, self-loathing evident.

For a moment, silence fills the cave, the weight of the confession hanging heavily in the air. You look at Iladj, whose expression mirrors your own conflicted feelings. Trust is a precious commodity, one not easily given.

Then your gaze shifts to Dozer, the loyal dog who risked his life to protect you from the scaleman. Loyalty born from a deeper bond of trust and love, not fear.

“We’ll take that chance,” you say, making the decision for all of you. “But know this, Qerot—your actions have consequences. Betray us, and you’ll see how we treat humanity's enemies.”

Qerot's eyes reflect a mixture of gratitude and pain. “Thank you,” he mutters, barely audible.

The day has stretched thin, shadows lengthening as you consider your next move. The scalemen will not sit idly by while you chip away at their forces. Preparation is key, and each decision could be a matter of life or death.

How will you spend the evening?

>Hunt for food
>Forage for herbs
>Practice with the scalemen blades
>Learn some medicine from Iladj
>Learn more about the scalemen from Qerot
>Craft something useful

>>6110846
>Learn more about the scalemen from Qerot
Knowledge is power.

>>6110846
>Scout the area with Dozer, search for a hidden cache, a suitable place for a hideout, or other signs of civilization (human or otherwise)
And/or
>Craft something useful (anything)

>>6110846
>Hunt for food
>Forage for herbs
>Discuss with the others a plan to fortify our cave

Do we happen to have a tiebreaker?

>>6111297
If no other votes come in, I'm open to changing my vote to
>>6110886

>>6110886
+1 so that we can get up with it
btw, thanks a lot for picking up this quest and considerably improving the quality of the writing

>>6111431
>btw, thanks a lot for picking up this quest and considerably improving the quality of the writing
this is addressed to the QM, of course. my bad

>>6111432
Thank you for the kind words, anon.

>>6110886
>>6110892
>>6111060
>>6111326
>>6111431
With a new determination and a promise to uphold, you turn to Qerot. "We need to know everything about the scalemen," you say, voice firm but carrying an underlying note of urgency.

Knowledge is power after all," Iladj adds.

Qerot, still weak but slowly regaining some composure, nods. "Very well," he starts, his voice a bit stronger than before.

Sitting across from him, you and Iladj exchange glances. Dozer lies close by, keeping a wary eye on the cave entrance. The faint light filtering through the cave bathes the chamber in a soft, dim glow, providing a sense of security but also an eerie calmness.

“The scalemen have a strict societal structure, with clear ranks and roles," Qerot begins. "I've never seen their women or children, but the males are organized and disciplined."

You nod, taking in every word. "Tell us about their ways," you prompt.

Qerot sighs deeply. “Captured humans are sold or kept for forced labor. They are continually watched, chained in groups to prevent escape. Defiance is met with harsh punishment, often death. They pit humans against each other, promising small rewards for cooperation, sowing distrust among slaves."

His words send a chill down your spine.

"They feed us the bare minimum," Qerot continues. "Mainly leftovers and food that is soon to spoil, because they don't farm or forage, and they do not eat the flesh of land-animals or birds."

"They don't eat people?" asks Iladj, curious but worried.

"They consider us all unclean," you answer, since you already know as much.

"Yes, slaves are forbidden to touch or prepare their food," agrees Qerot. "Only scaled creatures like them are treated as holy."

You lean in. "And their mounts? The serpentine beasts?"

"The mounts are nearly blind but incredibly loyal and aggressive. They feed them a specific diet of large insects and raw meat. The scalemen tend to them meticulously, grooming them and ensuring they're in prime condition for battle and transport."

As he speaks, a shadow passes over his face. “There’s one strange thing, though” he admits, voice trembling slightly. “They perform strange rituals. When the moon is full and the tide is high, they take humans into their seaside cave complex...and they never return. Whatever happens in those caves remains a mystery, but it’s something terrible.”

Iladj’s eyes narrow in thought. “Sacrifices, perhaps?” he muses aloud, the guess lining up with the tales of wolfmen Qerot had previously mentioned.

Qerot shudders. “Maybe."

>>6111455
Their disdain is relentless. They’re cruel but cold—like they despise us but need us for...something,” he trails off, unable or unwilling to speculate further. "All they ever show is fierce pride, especially in their metallurgy. Their weapons and tools are practically works of art."

You can't help but glance at the scaleman blade by your side. As much as it repels you, there's no denying its craftsmanship. But the absence of their women and children intrigues you, raising questions about their reproduction and society.

As the weight of Qerot’s revelations set in, you ponder your next move. The knowledge he has shared is invaluable, providing insight into the enemy's weaknesses and tactics. But there's always more to ask, more that could tip the scales in your favor. Yet it is late, and you are weary.

Do you have any other questions for Qerot?

>Yes
>No

>>6111457
>No

>>6111457
>No

>>6111460
>>6111486
The evening draws to a close with the murmur of the forest outside and the weighty silence of the cave within. With no more questions for Qerot, you and Iladj decide it’s time to rest. Dozer settles close by, his warmth and steady breathing a small comfort against the night’s chill.

As you lie down, the cave’s rough surface pressing against your back, your mind drifts to pragmatic gratitude. The leather straps from the scalemen, gruesome though they may be, have proven useful in hauling Dozer up here. Without them, you would ahve left him down there... With the dagger-toothed tiger.

But as sleep finally takes you, your thoughts twist into dark imaginings. You picture yourself being ‘processed’ by the scalemen, your skin stripped methodically to make more of those vile straps. You can't move, yet you feel each cut, each tug at your flesh. The sensation is a hellish mix of agony and detachment, your awareness failing to wane as your skin is used like leather, liek how you sued the skin of the first scaleman you captured and killed.

Without your skin, you’re dragged down into the depths of the scalemen’s ritual caves. The air grows thick with whispers and dark, glistening shapes. Unspeakable rituals commence in the shadows, drowning you in a visceral nightmare of sacrificial rites. You scream silently, your voice snatched away by the abyss around you.

---

You wake with a start, your body trembling and cold sweat beading on your forehead. It takes a moment for your mind to adjust to the reality around you. The cave. Iladj. Dozer. Qerot. All alive, all present.

Dawn light filters softly into the cave, but the new day does little to banish the dark residue of your dreams. Your appetite is nearly nonexistent as you force yourself to eat what little breakfast you have. You share the remaining rations with Iladj and Qerot, and the bones and bits of gristle for Dozer, the meager portions a stark reminder of your dwindling supplies.

The reality of your situation presses down on you. The food is all but gone. The thought of further foraging and hunting looms over you, a gnawing necessity that demands action. Each bite you take is a fight against the bile rising in your throat, the tang of the strips of smoked deer meat now linked with nightmarish visions of your flesh being stripped away.

Qerot looks at you with a mixture of concern and gratitude. Iladj’s calm, seasoned presence grounds you, reminding you of the path you still have to tread.

Once breakfasts done and gear is gathered, a decision needs to be made, and soon.

What will you do with the morning?
>Scavenge for more food that morning
>Fortify the cave to better defend it
>Scout around the nearby area with Dozer
>Set out after the scalemen once more

>>6111586
>Set out after the scalemen once more

>>6111586
>Scavenge for more food that morning
>Bring Dozer with us
Our supplies are very low right? We don't wanna starve, and we might need a little extra if a predator shows up again.

>Ask Qerot to think of a way to fortify the cave
So that atleast we could block off the entrance, either for hiding or defensing ourselves.
Iladj can help Qerot, or he can do something else independently.

>>6111917
+1
Perhaps we can also drag the dead scalemen back over. Hopefully the kitty cat takes a liking to eating them

>>6112020
Also quietly ask Iladj if he is okay with being left alone with Qerot.

>>6111643
>>6111917
>>6112020
>>6112022
The morning light filters softly into the cave, casting long shadows as you prepare for the day ahead. Your mind feels heavy with the residue of uneasy dreams, but the pressing need for more food drives you forward. Supplies are dwindling too precariously for your comfort.

“Iladj,” you say, pulling the older man aside. “Do you think it’s safe leaving Qerot here with you while I take Dozer to scavenge for more food? I thought he could help make our place here more secure.”

Iladj looks at Qerot, who is still nursing his wounds and appears significantly weakened. “I have concerns about trusting him, especially for such an important task... but he’s in no shape to overpower me. Not now, at least. I'm old, but he is still injured”

You nod, sharing his concerns but knowing there’s no other choice. “Everyone has to contribute,” you assert quietly. “Food and medicine aren’t free. That’s the way it was with my tribe, and it’s how we’ll do things here.”

You turn to Qerot, who looks up at you with a mixture of uncertainty and a spark of understanding. “We need to fortify this cave entrance. Think of it as paying for the food and aid we’re giving you,” you tell him. “Iladj can provide some guidance, or help with other tasks if you have ideas.”

Qerot nods, the weight of his situation clear in his demeanor. His time as a scaleman slave has stripped him of many things, but the basic principle of earning one’s keep is far from foreign. He doesn’t argue or complain, even when you give Iladj one of the scaleman blades to maintain order. Instead, Qerot slowly drags himself to a sitting position, ready to begin thinking of a way to fortify the cave’s entrance.

With the immediate plan set, you gather your gear and Dozer trots beside you, his presence a comforting shadow. As you set foot outside the cave, you survey the surroundings, weighing your options for where to hunt.

“Hunt in the tiger’s territory,” you mutter to yourself, considering the best hunting ground. “It’s risky but that’s where the prey is.”

...Or you could head further away. There, the animals would be fewer, and the cover sparse—the hunt could take longer and be less yielding, but safer... But you would also be more visible.

A third option looms in your mind, the fresh kill site of the scalemen. You could collect their bodies, to possibly lure the tiger with them, and do some scouting besides. Double the risk, double the potential reward.

You consider each option carefully, the pros and cons lining up in your mind as you decide the best course for the morning hunt.

Where will you hunt?
>In the tiger's apparent territory, where the best hunting ground is
>Further afield, where the animals and cover are lesser
>Near where the scalemen were killed, to collect their bodies and do some scouting

>>6112058
>Near where the scalemen were killed, to collect their bodies and do some scouting

>>6112058
>Near where the scalemen were killed, to collect their bodies and do some scouting

>>6112096
>>6112105
With a determined nod, you and Dozer set out towards the site where you last encountered the scalemen. The morning air is crisp, the forest surroundings bristling with latent energy as if aware of the hunt about to unfold. Your grip tightens on the scaleman blade as you move silently, mindful of any sounds or movement that could signal danger.

Arriving at the kill site, your eyes immediately lock onto the scene. Two great vultures, nearly as tall as a man with wingspans to match, are scavenging the scalemen corpses. Their black, beady eyes gleam with intelligence, and they tear into the flesh with disturbing efficiency.

You’ve hunted and killed a scaleman before, methodically skinning it alive. But now, examining these two bodies under the spectral scrutiny of the vultures, you’re reminded of Qerot's words—the misrable picture he painted of life as their slave, and the strangeness of their race.

A surge of anger rises within you; their deaths were necessary but seemed far too swift. Your stomach snarls in agreement, demanding more immediate sustenance.

Picking up a couple of solid stones, you hurl them towards the vultures. The great birds flap their enormous wings, loudly screeching in protest as they lift off, circling above you, their beady eyes fixed on their interrupted meal.

You approach the bodies, the smell of death mingling with the earthy scent of the forest. The scalemen lie twisted in death, their once-powerful forms now lifeless and discarded. You crouch beside them, the reality of your situation pressing down heavily. There’s hunting to be done if you’re to satisfy your camp's rumbling bellies—unless...

An unsettling thought crosses your mind. Human flesh is seen as unclean by these creatures, forbidden in their culture... But your people have no inverse taboo, save for a deep, instinctive uneasiness with eating anything which walks like a man. These are not men, though. Perhaps their own flesh might serve as a twisted form of sustenance and a deeper form of revenge.

Your fingers tense over the scaleman blade as you ponder your next move, the vultures’ goading calls ecoing from above.

>Bury the bodies quickly so that no patrols are alerted to these deaths
>Butcher them quickly here to easily carry their remains
>Try to construct a sled to drag them back to the cave for closer study
>If you eat their meat, you can replenish your strength and take some further revenge...

>>6112183
>Try to construct a sled to drag them back to the cave for closer study

>>6112183
>Butcher them quickly here to easily carry their remains

>>6112183
>>Try to construct a sled to drag them back to the cave for closer study

Could we carry them back one at a time?

>>6112449
>>6112437
>>6112392
>>6112218
Your eyes scan the area, taking in the grim sight of the scalemen's bodies. Each one, with their reptilian features and powerful builds, makes you wonder just how heavy they are. Their twisted forms lie still, their deathly weight anchoring them to the forest floor. The thought of carrying them back one at a time crosses your mind, but it's quickly dismissed as impractical. The weight and awkwardness of their forms would make that far too time-consuming. If you can construct a sled to haul one, it should suffice to drag both. Efficiency is survival.

You glance around, surveying the available resources. Plant fibers, long sturdy branches, and any naturally curved pieces of wood that can form a base. You set to work, feeling the urgency but maintaining methodical precision. Your hands move with practiced skill, your body falling into the rhythm of the task.

First, you gather two strong, straight branches long enough to create the sled’s frame. You use the scaleman blade to cut smaller, flexible branches and lash them horizontally along the length of the sturdy branches, forming a basic lattice structure. As you work, you occasionally glance back at the scalemen’s bodies.

The vultures had been efficient at their job, too. The flesh is torn in places, exposing sinew and bone. Your earlier strikes and the subsequent scavenging have left deep gaps and jagged wounds across their forms. What remains of their skin is starting to shrivel, though the process of decomposition seems curiously slow compared to the rapid rot you'd expect in humans under the same sun and heat. It's as if their bodies resist decay, their strange nature evident even in death.

Once the base frame is completed, you gather vines and plant fibers to secure the structure. You weave these materials tightly, ensuring the sled is both strong yet flexible enough to absorb the rough terrain. You add some extra branches as support beams, ensuring the structure can handle the weight of both scalemen bodies.

>>6112615
After what feels like hours, your hands are raw from the work, your muscles aching. You flip the sled upright and tug it slightly to test its strength. It holds. Satisfied, you maneuver the scalemen’s bodies onto the sled, straining under their weight. The vultures watch all the while, perching just out of reach, eyeing your work with an unsettling curiosity.

The journey back to the cave is grueling. Each step feels like a chore, your muscles burning with the effort. The sled, though constructed well, still makes for heavy labor. Dozer pads alongside, occasionally casting concerned glances your way.

At long last, the cave comes into view, and you see Qerot’s attempt at fortification. He’s piled stones at the cave’s entrance, creating a rough, shaky wall. While it is a start, it is clearly the work of an inexperienced hand, something that causes a spike of frustration to rise within you.

You drag the sled to the base of the cave entrance with an exhausted heave, then collapse beside it. Every muscle in your body screams for respite, but the reality of your hunger gnaws just as fiercely. The task of hunting was replaced by scavenging, leaving you with an empty stomach and frayed nerves.

Standing, you turn your attention to Qerot's feeble efforts. The meager pile of stones seems an almost mocking shield against the wilderness.

The gnawing of hunger and exhaustion weighs down your patience, but you take a moment to gather yourself.

>Yell at Qerot for his shoddy work and tell him to do it again, better, while you go hunt
>Take your time to help Qerot construct better defenses
>Assign a job to Iladj instead (he will stop his default tasks of foraging herbs and mixing medicines)
>Forget the fortifications and the hunt, and study the bodies

>>6112616
>Take your time to help Qerot construct better defenses
The collected stones could also work well for throwing ammunition like in the past.
But Qerot said he hunted, has he experience in ranged weaponry like bow&arrow or throwing spears? If we help collecting the required materials, could he construct some for us? They would be great for defense, but also for hunting.

I presume the vultures followed the bodies. We could try to hunt them if they come close again.

>>6112616
>>Forget the fortifications and the hunt, and study the bodies

>>6112616
>Take your time to help Qerot construct better defenses

>>6112657
I'll change my vote to
>Take your time to help Qerot construct better defenses

>>6112766
>>6112695
>>6112657
>>6112655
You take a deep breath, swallowing your frustration and hunger. The gnawing sensation within your stomach is an old, familiar friend—a companion in times of scarcity and endurance. You rise from your exhaustion and approach Qerot with a calm demeanor, focusing on the task at hand.

"I see you've started on the fortifications," you begin, voice steady. "But we’ll need more stable structures if we're to secure this place."

Qerot looks up, his eyes reflecting a mixture of relief and gratitude. "I did what I could," he murmurs, equal parts defensive and apologetic.

Nodding, you gesture to the stones he had piled haphazardly. "I appreciate the effort. Now let me show you how to make something sturdier."

With forced patience, you guide Qerot in the basics of constructing more stable walls. "When I penned my herds," you explain, "we used a combination of stakes and woven branches for stability. Stones form the foundation. Like this."

You demonstrate using larger stones as a base, stacking them carefully to create a solid grounding. Then you collect branches and demonstrate how to weave them into a tight lattice, reinforcing the structure. Qerot follows your lead, hands working clumsily at first but gradually gaining some semblance of skill.

As you work, you decide to probe Qerot’s hunting experience further. “You said you hunted,” you begin, voice neutral. “Do you have any experience with ranged weapons? Bow and arrow? Throwing spears?”

Qerot hesitates, his face reflecting the discomfort of his past. “I... I did hunt, but it was rarely needed. In my tribe, we had people who specialized in making weapons and hunting. I wasn’t one of them.”

A flash of frustration blazes through you. A division of labor? Specialized roles? It all seems so foreign to you, a man from a people where everyone needed to have a versatile array of skills. You suppress the urge to voice your contempt. "In my tribe, everyone had to contribute in all ways," you say curtly. "We couldn’t afford to specialize. It made us stronger."

Qerot bows his head, the weight of his perceived inadequacy evident. "I know I’m not as skilled in those things as you," he admits.

You nod, though the feeling that Qerot remains a weakness, even a liability, gnaws at you. Trusting a collaborator is difficult enough; having to train him to be a proper man feels even more troublesome.

>>6112883
As you continue to work, your attention is drawn to Iladj, who stands at the cave entrance, tension evident in his posture. "Mlakli, Qerot," he calls out, voice urgent yet controlled. "Look."

Rising from your work, you follow his gaze. Two large vultures have indeed followed the bodies, their eerie forms silhouetted against the setting sun. They perch on the outcropping of rocks, watching, waiting. Their presence casts long shadows across the ground, their beady eyes reflecting the dying light of day.

You exchange a glance with Iladj, considering the vultures’ potential as a source of food. “Scavengers,” you mutter, more to yourself than anyone else. You’ve never eaten one before, but your hunger makes the thought increasingly appealing—despite the ambiguity of consuming a creature that feeds on rotting flesh.

The question of what to do with the scalemen’s bodies also looms, as leaving them unaddressed could attract larger predators like the tiger or make the vultures bolder.

>Throw rocks to scare away the vultures
>Attempt to use the bodies to lure them down, then trap, kill, and eat them
>Propose cooking and eating the scalemen quickly, so they don't attract tigers or vultures

>>6112886
>>Attempt to use the bodies to lure them down, then trap, kill, and eat them

>>6112886
>Attempt to use the bodies to lure them down, then trap, kill, and eat them
Not sure what kinda traps we could make, but I see potential for Dozer to sprint at a vulture when landed to bite and hold onto it while the others rush in aswell to kill it.

>>6112886
>Attempt to use the bodies to lure them down, then trap, kill, and eat them
Expand our palette.

>>6112886
>>Attempt to use the bodies to lure them down, then trap, kill, and eat them
I still want to save the dead scalemen as potential tiger food

>>6112887
>>6112899
>>6112920
>>6112946
Your eyes linger on the vultures for a moment. Their presence, menacing yet opportunistic, stirs a plan in your mind. You turn to Qerot and Iladj, sharing your thoughts.

"We can use the scalemen bodies to lure the vultures down," you suggest, keeping your tone measured. "Once they're within reach, we set upon them. Dozer can make the initial strike—grab one and hold it while the rest of us finish the job."

Iladj nods in agreement. “Using their bodies wisely. It serves two purposes,” he murmurs, understanding the dual motivation of securing food and saving the scalemen as potential bait for the larger predator you know lurks nearby.

Qerot looks uncertain but follows your lead.

You grab the remains of the scalemen, positioning them near the entrance of the cave. The vultures above observe your efforts, their keen eyes fixed on the feast being laid out.

Next, you gather some branches and debris from the surrounding area. While Qerot stands watch, you and Iladj swiftly construct a simple trap made of bent saplings and laced with plant fibers. It’s rudimentary but functional—designed to spring back and ensnare a bird the moment it lands and starts feasting. Satisfied with the setup, you position yourselves strategically around the carcasses, signaling for Dozer to be ready.

“Alright, Dozer,” you whisper, patting his side. His eyes, sharp and keen, remain locked on the vultures. His muscles twitch in anticipation, ready to burst into action.

Taking a step back, you look up at the vultures once more. Their postures shift; they’re assessing the risk versus reward, the primal calculus of their kind. One of them squawks, an eerie sound that echoes through the forest as it spreads its vast wings.

>>6113298
It descends slowly, cautiously, the other following closely behind. They circle, landing mere feet from the bait. The final moments before the attack hang heavy in the air. Your heart pounds in your chest as your grip tightens on the scaleman blade, ready for what comes next.

Dozer's growl is low, barely audible. His entire body tenses, primed for the signal. You nod to your companions, your own breath a strained hush. The trap is set, the vultures’ downward glances fixated greedily on the scaleman meat. They hop towards it, oblivious to their impending fate.

Their curved beaks, with stabbing points and jaw msucles sufficient to crack bone, could surely be deadly... But starvation is a larger threat. If this works, you’ll have meat to last a few more days—sufficient to hunt larger prey or move out of danger’s reach. Every raw incentive spurs your resolve.

The moment the first vulture lowers its head, pecking at the scaleman flesh, you give the signal. Your voice cutting through the night air: “Now!”

Dozer launches forward, a mass of muscle and fur, teeth bared. He clamps down on the vulture’s wing with a savage growl, his jaws biting hard. The other vulture flaps its wings in a panic, rising only slightly before your trap snaps shut around it, entangling wings and talons in a furious flurry of flight.

You're on your feet, charging forward to engage. Qerot, with a determined but inexperienced motion, follows suit, and Iladj circles from the opposite side. The battle between man and vulture has begun.

>Roll 1d100, Bo3 for the outcome

Rolled 53 (1d100)

Rolled 87 (1d100)

>>6113299

Rolled 12 (1d100)

>>6113299

>>6113300
>>6113311
>>6113316
The moment you give the signal, Dozer lunges at the first vulture with fierce determination, clamping down on its wing. The bird’s screeches fill the air, but Dozer’s jaws hold fast. You rush forward, blade in hand, slashing at the vulture’s neck. It convulses briefly before falling limp.

The second vulture, ensnared in the trap, flails desperately. Qerot and Iladj close in, and despite his inexperience, Qerot manages a clumsy but effective stab with a sharp stick, wounding the bird. You follow up with a precise strike to its head, silencing it permanently.

Panting from the effort, you survey the scene. The vultures lie dead, their massive wings spread out in a final defiant pose. Dozer nudges one with his nose, satisfied with the hunt.

"Good job, Dozer," you murmur, patting his side. Iladj and Qerot exchange glances, their expressions a mix of relief and curiosity about what comes next.

With the vultures subdued, you make quick work of butchering them—plucking feathers, removing innards, and preparing the meat for cooking. You set up a fire near the cave entrance and begin roasting the meat over the open flames, the scent filling the air. It’s not pleasant, but it’s fuel for your bodies.

Once the vulture meat is ready, you distribute portions to everyone. The first bite is overwhelming—a bitter, gamey taste that sends a wave of nausea through you. You force yourself to swallow, each bite a struggle. Iladj shares your grimace but bites down resolutely, knowing the importance of sustenance.

Qerot, however, eats without flinching. You watch him, a mix of frustration and admiration bubbling within you. Despite his earlier shortcomings and your dislike of the man, he does have one virtue: months of subsisting on scaleman scraps must have made him all but immune to food-related discomfort. He sits quietly, his eyes focused, not uttering a single complaint.

Inventory:
>Stone axe
>3 Scaleman blades
>Minimal deer meat left
>Vulture meat (plentiful, but unappetizing)
>Herbs (plenty)
>Scaleman skin (portion used for Dozer’s protective coat)
>Snakeskin
>Stone knife
>Primitive noise-makers and tripwires (in place)
>Leather straps (used for makeshift harness)
>Sled (large/heavy, can't easily carry when traveling quickly)

>>6113399
As darkness falls, the forest around you quiets. The wind rustles through the leaves, and the subtle glow of the fire casts flickering shadows along the cave walls. You feel an odd sense of satisfaction despite the horrendous taste lingering in your mouth.

The gnawing thought of the scalemen's bodies returns. The issue of what to do with them lingers. Perhaps they could serve as bait—to lure the tiger away. Or maybe you could haul them into the cave for closer study tomorrow, learning more about your enemies whilst keeping insect and animal activity from defiling them further.

What will you do with the scalemen’s bodies?
>Haul them up to the cave for study tomorrow
>Leave them out as an offering to the tiger
>Use them as bait for a more strategic trap

>>6113400
>Haul them up to the cave for study tomorrow

>>6113400
>Leave them out as an offering to the tiger
If we feed the tiger enough scalemen meat it might start to like it and actively try to hunt them. Would make for a good guardian since we're in its territory.

>>6113400
>>Haul them up to the cave for study tomorrow
>>Leave them out as an offering to the tiger
Can we do one each? If not, preference is tiger bait

>>6113422
>>6113441
>>6113454
With the vultures dealt with and a meager meal in your stomachs, you turn your attention back to the scalemen’s bodies. After discussing with Iladj, you decide on a plan.

"Iladj, you’re best suited to study the body here in the cave tomorrow. You notice things I might miss," you tell him.

Iladj nods solemnly. He understands the importance of the task, which could teach you important things about the nature of your hated enemy.

You haul one scaleman body up into the cave using the leather harness you have constructed, the effort draining the last reserves of your energy. The other body remains below, its intended purpose clear—an offering for the tiger. Perhaps you can appease the beast, or better yet give it a taste for scalemen?

You settle down near the edge of the cave, staring at the darkened forest below. Your muscles are sore, and your eyelids heavy, but you remain vigilant, hoping to glimpse the tiger that prowls these woods. The wind rustles through the trees, the rhythm of the night lulling you into a trance-like state.

An hour passes, then two. Despite your best efforts, your exhaustion catches up with you. Your vision blurs, the edges of your sight darkening until you drift into an uneasy sleep.

In your dream, you stand at the edge of the forest, the moon casting a silver glow across the landscape. From the shadows, two amber eyes emerge, staring at you with an unsettling curiosity. The eyes are familiar yet profoundly alien—a predator’s gaze, intelligent and probing. The tiger observes you, not with malice, but with an almost human-like comprehension.

>>6113552
You awaken suddenly, the dream lingering in your mind like a shadow. The cave is quiet, the fire dimly glowing embers. You glance down where the scaleman body had been, but it’s gone. A trail of blood leads into the jungle, a clear sign that the tiger had taken the bait. You feel a strange sense of satisfaction and achievement. Maybe it was the dream or the fact that your plan succeeded, but a weight seems lifted, if only slightly.

You join Iladj, who is already awake and examining the second scaleman body. His brow is furrowed with concentration, his hands deftly working through the strange anatomy of the enemy. You crouch beside him, eager to glean whatever knowledge he has uncovered.

"What have you learned?" you ask, voice tinged with anticipation.

Iladj looks up, his face grave but focused. "As you may have noticed, their bodies decay unnaturally slowly," he begins. "It's as if their flesh resists rot. But there's something more..."

You sense his hesitation, a reluctance to share whatever disturbing truth he has found. "Iladj, what is it?"

Taking a deep breath, Iladj continues, "Their internal organs... their skeleton... it’s not like a snake or lizard. It’s more like... a man’s."

You stare at the scaleman’s body, feeling a creeping dread you can't explain.

"What does that mean?" you ask, uneasy.

Iladj shakes his head slowly. "I don’t know."

You turn to Qerot. "Do you know anything about this?"

Qerot, seated nearby, looks as baffled as you. "No," he admits.

The unsettling discovery lingers in your mind. You aren't ure what to do with this information, or what it means.

There’s work to be done, though. There always is, in this world. Survival itself is hard work, and you have promised much more: vengeance for your lost tribesman, salvation for the survivors and for those like Qerot's family.

>Continue to fortify and supply the cave
>Go scouting (looking for what?)
>Craft something useful (what?)
>Set out to hunt the scalemen again

>>6113553
>Set out to hunt the scalemen again

>>6113553
>>Go scouting (looking for Qerot's family)

>>6113553
>Craft traps for catching small prey, scout for good places in the forest and place them there.

>>6113554
Changing my vote to this.
>>6113603

Qerot’s family is presumably in the depths of the scaleman slavery/sacrifice compound or whatever. I doubt a search for them would be fruitful right now

>>6113862
In my opinion both of these >>6113554
>>6113603 roads lead to Rome, even if we don't get there immediately

>>6113554
>>6113603
>>6113740
>>6113853
>>6113862
>>6113874
The sun has barely risen when you make up your mind to go scouting; Qerot’s family remains a distinct and urgent concern. You can’t help but recognize the likelihood that they’re deep within the scalemen’s hold, well beyond simple retrieval. A protracted search would likely lead to disappointment and danger. Nevertheless, a tentative scouting mission could yield valuable insights.

Leaving Qerot with Iladj, you take Dozer and set out. Vigilance is your armor, your senses attuned to every rustle of leaves and snap of twigs. You retrace your steps from before, moving cautiously and silently through the dense woods. The morning air is cool, revitalizing in its freshness, yet it carries the latent threat of unseen dangers.

The forest itself seems to open up before you, vast and wild. You pass through groves of weather-beaten trees, their bark gnarled and twisted like ancient warriors. The ground beneath is a mosaic of roots and fallen leaves, thick undergrowths obscuring visibility beyond a few paces. Birds flit through the branches overhead, their songs weaving a haunting melody. Now and then, small game—rabbits, squirrels, even a lone fox—darts into the underbrush. Your stomach tightens at the sight. Hunting could provide much-needed meat, fuel for your body and mind.

Yet, just as you consider taking down a particularly plump rabbit, a faint but distinct sound reaches your ears—footsteps. Your muscles coil instinctively, heart pounding as you duck low, blending into the shadows. Dozer mirrors your action, his body tense and alert.

You listen closely, the sound of feet striking the forest floor faint yet steady. They aren’t the unmistakable slithering, slapping steps of scalemen; they’re human footfalls. But you've learned the hard way that humans, especially those enslaved and warped by scalemen, can be every bit as dangerous. Your grip tightens on the stone knife at your side, deliberation cutting through the tension.

Creeping cautiously forward, you peer through a curtain of dense foliage, scanning the scene before you. Your eyes widen. A small group—men, women, and children—move through the forest. Their expressions are plain, weary but not broken. They look normal enough, but then again, Qerot had seemed normal too, before his true nature and role were revealed.

Your mind races with the possibilities. Are these refugees or further slaves of the scalemen? Dozens of thoughts flit through your mind: distrust, the need for allies, memories of ambushes, and the desire to protect and warn.

>Remain in hiding and observe
>Greet them and warn them of the scaleman presence
>Try to frighten them away from this place

>>6113907
>Remain in hiding and observe
Be on the lookout if any scalemen follow behind them and they are just used as bait. If not, we could consider approaching them.

>>6113907
>Remain in hiding and observe

>>6113918
>>6113948
With Dozer by your side, you remain hidden within the dense foliage, watching the group intently. Your eyes scan the surrounding woods for any sign of scalemen following them, suspecting a possible trap. But as you observe, it becomes clear that the group moves with a genuine purpose, their actions free of the stilted, strained movements of bait.

The sight of them foraging tugs at something deep within you. Memories of your own family, gathering wild berries, setting traps for small game, and working together to ensure survival flood your mind. The ache of loss is sharp, a reminder of the life ripped away from you by the scalemen.

There are a dozen of them in total. You count the heads, noting each face individually. The group has two men and two young boys, watching warily with simple weapons—sharp stones, wooden clubs—in their hands. They stay on alert, their eyes constantly darting through the trees, protective and vigilant. The women, five in total, are busy collecting edible plants and roots, their movements rehearsed and efficient.

One of the women carries a baby, its tiny form nestled against her chest. The sight both comforts and pains you, a stark reminder of the future you hoped to protect. Your gaze shifts, and you realize there are no elders among them, perhaps indicative of the harsh losses they’ve faced—adults in their prime, trying to ensure the next generation survives.

You continue to scan the perimeter, cautious and alert for any signs of danger. With each passing moment, it becomes clear that they are alone. The relief you feel intertwines with the unresolved tension of your situation. This group, while not the scalemen, is still a potential complication. They could be valuable allies or additional vulnerabilities.

You weigh your options, considering the best course of action. You could approach and warn them of the dangers in this area. Warm greetings and building connections might foster alliances but also obligate you to protect them. Leaving quietly allows for continued scouting, though you’ll miss the opportunity to join with these people.

As the group continues their foraging, unaware of your presence, you deliberate the best approach.

>Approach and warn them that this place is dangerous
>Greet them warmly, and get to know them
>Leave, and return to the cave to report back
>Continue scouting, as these are not your target

>>6113983
>Greet them warmly, and get to know them

>>6113983
>Greet them warmly, and get to know them
Ape together strong.

>Greet them warmly, and get to know them. (But, do not commit to integrating with them)
Cynically speaking, the women are worse than useless for our mission of assaulting the scalemen and freeing our people, as they will in fact slow us down, and we are unlikely to convince the men to leave their families to help us accomplish our goal. They will also breed jealousy and someone could eventually get killed over shagging rights. Still, perhaps we can learn useful information from them or benefit in some other way.

>>6113983
>>Approach and warn them that this place is dangerous
AHHHHHH SCALEMEN

>>6113997
>>6114005
>>6114017
>>6114022
With a deep breath, you make your decision. It’s been too long since you shared words with others outside of Iladj and the questionably-trustworthy Qerot. The value of human companionship, of talking to people, is a lure too strong to resist.

Stepping out from the cover of the foliage, you raise an open hand in a gesture of peace. "Greetings!" Your voice carries through the forest, and instantly, the group freezes. The men grip their rudimentary weapons tighter, their postures shifting defensively.

Dozer stays by your side, his presence a quiet reassurance. You maintain distance, not wanting to alarm them further. "I mean you no harm," you continue. "My name is Mlakli. I’ve been living in these woods. Are you new here?"

One of the men, the elder by a few years, steps forward, his eyes scanning your haggard appearance with caution. "I am Ishkibal," he says, his tone wary but not unkind. "This is my brother, Iltani," he adds, gesturing to the younger man standing beside him.

Ishkibal continues, "These are our families." He introduces the women, Inanna, Ninsun, and Shala—his wives, and Ereski, his younger brother's—each of them acknowledging you with brief, guarded nods.The children, Inanna's and Shala's boys, look on with wide eyes, clutching at their mothers’ leaf-skirts. A younger woman, unwed and drawn closer to vigilance, is their sister, Ettutu.

You see a glint of fear and wariness, mixed with the fatigue of their travels. "We come from the forests to the south," Ishkibal says, answering your unspoken question. "A great fire drove us north,."

You note their worn, weather-beaten clothes, and the simplicity of their tools—clear indicators of a life spent gleaning from the land. Understanding their recent upheaval, you sympathize; a fire would be more than enough to uproot even the most steadfast family clan. You wonder if it didn't claim their old folks as well... And perhaps this is what drove the tiger towards you as well.

"I’ve faced hardship and loss myself," you say, wisely keeping your encounters with the scalemen for later conversation.

Your friendliness seems to thaw their initial caution. They watch you closely, intrigued by your journey and survival. You observe the men’s protectiveness over their families, a concern deeply familiar to you, even if it is hard to miss how their structure could be unhealthy for a small tribe like their own.

"I appreciate your greetings, Mlakli, but forgive our wariness," Ishkibal interjects. "Your arrival is unexpected, and there is a certain... intensity about you."

You nod, understanding. "It is a product of recent events," you explain, offering a small, sad smile. "It is necessary."

>>6114130
The men nod their understanding. They recount brief stories of their journey, sharing small snippets of their lives, while you reciprocate with tales of your own life.

As the conversation flows, a decision forms in your mind. This group, while not directly aligned with your mission to free your people from the scalemen, could provide valuable information, resources, or even simply companionship during these desperate times.

>Advise them to carry on the way they came, but to beware the scalemen
>Tell them to go back the way they came, or find a different land, because it is too dangerous here
>Invite them back to your cave
>Ask to travel with them

>>6114131
>Invite them back to your cave

>>6114169
>Invite them back to your cave

>>6114131
>Invite them back to your cave

>>6114169
>>6114234
>>6114294
After some consideration of your options, you decide to invite the families of Ishkibal and Iltani back to your cave. The longing for human connection, as well as the potential for building a stronger collective, outweighs your hesitations.

"I have a safer place where you can rest for the night," you offer. "It's not much, but it's secure and away from immediate danger. You’re welcome to join us there."

Ishkibal and Iltani exchange glances laden with unspoken questions and decisions. Eventually, Ishkibal nods. "We appreciate your offer, Mlakli. We will accept your hospitality."

The cautious acceptance from both families is accompanied by a subtle relaxation in their postures. They gather their belongings and begin the trek back to the cave, led by you and accompanied vigilantly by Dozer. Along the way, the chatter of human voices fills the air—a sound that lifts your spirits and brings a sliver of hope to your heart. For so long, silence and danger have been your companions; this return to communal life, however brief and tentative, is a balm to your soul.

Yet, each voice also carries a pang of guilt and loss, as memories of those taken into bondage flood your mind. The faces of your family, the warmth of their presence, now starkly contrasted by their absence. You push these thoughts aside, focusing instead on the driving need to keep moving forward.

Arriving at the cave, you begin the introductions. Iladj steps forward, his calm and empathetic demeanor evident. "Welcome," he says warmly. "I am Iladj, and this is Qerot," he continues, gesturing towards the hesitant former collaborator, who offers a tentative nod.

The men, Ishkibal and Iltani, respond in kind, introducing themselves and their families once more. The wives and children do not speak much but offer shy smiles and nods of appreciation.

>>6114523
As the conversations wind down, Iladj approaches you, his eyes reflecting concern. "Mlakli, how did the scouting mission go? Did you find anything of use?"

You hesitate for a moment before admitting, "I cut it short when I found these people. I couldn't ignore the importance of helping them."

Iladj nods understandingly. "I see. It's just... how do we feed them? Our supplies are limited."

You part your lips to answer but are interrupted by the sight of the newcomers presenting their own collection of food. Berries, nuts, tubers, and other foraged plants are lowered from the woven baskets of the women, enough to see everyone through the night. Relief washes over you, though you know the respite is temporary.

Evening falls, the cave bustling with activity as the families settle in. The presence of so many people, while comforting, adds a new layer of complexity to your situation.

>Offer these newcomers some meat to go with their vegetables
>Show the brothers the scaleman corpse, and tell them of your mission of vengeance and liberation
>Approach Ettutu, the unmarried sister, and solicit her companionship
>Return to hunting and scouting, though it may grow dark soon

>>6114524
>Show the brothers the scaleman corpse, and tell them of your mission of vengeance and liberation

>>6114524
>Offer these newcomers some meat to go with their vegetables
If we mix the vulture meat with their berries and herbs, it might actually taste good.
>Show the brothers the scaleman corpse, await their reaction before revealing what we experienced.

>>6114552
>>6114606
As evening settles into the cave, you gather everyone around and offer a portion of the vulture meat to share. "It's not much, nor is it appetizing, but it's what we have," you say, presenting the meat.

"If we mix the vulture meat with your berries and herbs, it might actually mask the taste," you suggest, hoping to improve the flavor.

The women nod gratefully, combining their foraged plants with the roasted vulture meat. The mixture, while not exactly delicious, turns out to be more tolerable than plain vulture. The guests, despite initial wariness, partake in the meal, though it becomes clear that few are eager for second helpings of the meat.

Nevertheless, the shared meal fosters a sense of unity and camaraderie, a warm glow spreading amongst the group despite the circumstances. You take this opportunity to form stronger bonds with these newcomers.

Once everyone has eaten, you stand, gesturing for Ishkibal and Iltani to follow you. “There’s something you should see,” you tell them, your tone serious.

The brothers exchange a look, curious and concerned, before nodding and standing. You lead them deeper into the cave where Iladj has been studying the scaleman corpse. The firelight flickers, casting eerie shadows across the dismembered body, the reptilian flesh glistening in the dim light.

Ishkibal and Iltani freeze at the sight, their eyes widening in horror. The younger brother gasps audibly, while the older one clenches his jaw. They move closer, their expressions a mix of shock and disgust.

“What... what is this?” Ishkibal whispers, his voice trembling.

You take a deep breath, preparing yourself to recount your painful history. “These are the scalemen,” you begin. “They attacked my tribe, slaughtered my people, and enslaved the survivors. There are many more of them—organized, ruthless, and dangerous.”

You go on to explain much of what you know, or suspect, about the hated scalemen.

>>6114756
Iltani’s eyes reflect a deep outrage as you finish the tale. “These creatures... they must be destroyed,” he says fiercely, his young face twisted in anger.

Ishkibal, ever cautious, scrutinizes the creature’s visage. “These... these things,” he mutters, shaking his head. There is fear in his eyes, but not the same kind of resolve as his brother. “They are like the forest fire that drove us north—a force of nature. To engage them...” He trails off, internal conflict evident.

You step forward, addressing them both. “I seek to avenge my people and free those captured. But the scalemen are powerful. Alone, I’m vulnerable, but with allies...”

A heavy silence descends, each man grappling with the implications of your words.

Iltani’s voice breaks the silence, passionate and determined. “We should join Mlakli. Destroy these monsters. Free the captives.”

Ishkibal’s caution remains. “I fear for our families. The scalemen... if they are as dangerous as you say, isn’t it wiser to avoid them? Protect our own?”

The weight of leadership and responsibility is clear in his eyes. He thinks not only of his own safety but of the vulnerable lives he has sworn to shield.

>Agree with Iltani, and petition his family's help in your mission
>Respect Ishkibal's feelings and his patriarch status, and drop the matter
>Write-in

>>6114757
>Agree with Iltani, and petition his family's help in your mission
Where they go, the scalemen will follow.

>>6114757
>>Agree with Iltani, and petition his family's help in your mission

>gather more opinions / wisdom from others present
We really don’t want an awkward arrangement where we have a conflict of interest between protecting the women and children with us and risking our skins to save those in captivity. We need to figure out whether a partnership actually makes sense or whether it’s best if we exchange some knowledge, maybe gather resources together for a while, and then go our separate ways

>>6114757
>Argue that we took on the scalemen already, and were victorious.
Safety can only be found from eliminating the threat, not avoiding it. If the forest fire were not to be extuingished, it would only rage on, grow larger. Only it someone or something were to stop it, it would nog longer pose a threat. Otherwise it would just go on and eventually there would be nowhere left to run.

>>6114970
+1
>Propose to discuss with the rest of the group, after the two brothers have made up their mind.

>>6114900
I was thinking of adding on something like "call a meeting with the men" (or everyone or just the elders or even just the men minus the dubiously trustworthy Qerot) and create a plan of attack and our next meeting location and time. I don't want to be obligated to feed and shelter these two families, even if Ettutu's got a fat ass. Besides, it seems like they have their idea of how to survive and which direction to head (which may have changed or may change soon based on scalemen talks)

You meet Ishkibal's gaze, recognizing the inner turmoil he’s facing. He is a man caught between the instinct to shield his family and the daunting idea of tackling the scalemen threat directly. You empathize with his fear, but you have seen too much, suffered too much, to believe this problem can be ignored or avodied.

“I understand your fears, Ishkibal,” you say, your voice firm, yet understanding. “But where you go, the scalemen will follow. They are as relentless as a forest fire, and running will only delay the inevitable. Just as a fire must be fought and extinguished, so must the scalemen be opposed and defeated."

Iltani’s agreement is evident in his eyes, his resolve mirroring your own. You press on, “I have faced scalemen and survived. We’ve captured, interrogated, and slain one, and just yesterday, ambushed and killed two more. The evidence lies here before you. They are formidable, yes, but not invincible.”

You pause, allowing that truth to resonate and bolster Ishkibal’s wavering resolve.

“We should discuss these matters privately," he suggests.

You nod, recognizing his wisdom. "Together, we can devise a plan. We need to determine if partnership truly serves us or if we ought to unite temporarily for survival and then part ways."

Ishkibal’s expression reflects the magnitude of his responsibilities. His eyes roam over the scaleman's dissected remains, the flames casting eerie shadows. You soften your voice, “Tomorrow, let’s hold a meeting. If you choose to ally with us, we’ll strategize—forge an alliance. Success requires a unified will."

As Ishkibal and Iltani exchange thoughtful, deliberate glances, you inwardly nudge yourself to stay patient. You notice Ettutu helping the women and children outside the shelter of the cave, and feel a pang of something else. You have never been married, though you had once hoped to be so...

You summon back your wandering thoughts, as if they were your missing herd. If these men agree, their resources, information... And companionship... Would be invaluable. You need their strength and unity but accepting them into your fold means shouldering their burdens too. The partnership demands mutual commitment.

>Roll 1d100 Bo3 for how convincing you are.

Rolled 22 (1d100)

rollan

>>6115286
Thanks! Also, sorry for not linking to everyone's posts. 4chan's spam filter kept blocking me from posting and the only way I could get it to work after several rewrites was to remove the post numbers.

Rolled 80 (1d100)

>>6115278

Rolled 44 (1d100)

>>6115278

>>6115313
>>6115298
>>6115286
As the night deepens and the gentle hush of the forest settles like a comforting lullaby, you observe as the newcomers slowly make themselves comfortable in the cave. The space, once filled with echoes of emptiness, now hums softly with the murmurs of hushed conversations. Iladj tends to everyone, sharing stories and herbs to soothe the newcomers' tired, wary spirits.

You, Iladj,a nd the brothers exchange a few words, deciding on a guard rotation for the night. Dozer takes his place beside you when your watch begins, his warm presence a steady comfort. Throughout your vigil, you listen to the rhythmic breathing of those asleep, a reminder that you now share the space with allies whose lives are tied to the choices you make.

As dawn breaks, the cave stirs with the sound of rising families. Ishkibal approaches you, his expression resolute yet contemplative. His night's rest, perhaps brief but necessary, has solidified his resolve.

“After we spoke, I realized that we have come so far,” Ishkibal begins, his voice imbued with a newfound clarity. “We cannot keep running from one threat to the next. This land, harsh as it may be, is fertile enough to become a home with some effort.”

You listen, heartened by both his determination and the trust he's placing in you.

“I will trust you, Mlakli,” he continues. “You've faced these scalemen, fought, and survived them. Your knowledge of the land and these creatures can guide us—see us through the troubles ahead.”

The weight of his words settles on your shoulders, a heavy yet familiar mantle of responsibility. Gratitude surges within you. With it comes newfound responsibility, too, though.

Throughout the morning, you talk strategy with the brothers as the rest of the community prepares a humble breakfast. The group shares thoughts on scouting individual paths, hunting parties, and the preservation of resources. Ideas intertwine, plans draft themselves in hastily exchanged whispers, and a cohesive picture forms: survival through collective effort.

>>6115341
Decisions need to be made, all pressing and demanding focus. The scalemen remain a critical threat—formulating a plan of war against them is necessary. Yet, mapping the environment and its resources is equally crucial for sustaining life long-term.

Your thoughts turn to fortifications... And then a sudden notion grips you: your herd. You were a herder once, before you were a victim, a coward, and finally a warrior and a leader. Perhaps rebuilding something like your old life isn't so far-fetched with newfound strength at your back.

Now, you turn to the group, their eager or worried faces turned to you. It's time to determine the day’s priority.

What comes next?
>Continue to focus on your efforts on the war against the scalemen
>Prioritize mapping the available plants and animals in the environment
>Further fortify your cave into a fortress using the added labor
>You need a more reliable source of food... Maybe it's time to rebuild your herd

>>6115343
>Continue to focus on your efforts on the war against the scalemen

>>6115343
>Rebuild the herd

>>6115341
> Continue to focus on your efforts on the war against the scalemen
This’ll be the most interesting imo

>>6115343
>Continue to focus on your efforts on the war against the scalemen

>>6115363
>>6115397
>>6115562
>>6115625
Morning light filters into the cave, bathing the collective in a reassuring glow. You rally those present, optimism buoyed by their newfound presence. The brothers, Ishkibal and Iltani, along with their families, form a motley assortment, but they hold potential—a potential you intend to harness against the scalemen menace.

Your mind is settled, the decision clear. The first order of business remains war against the scalemen. Your new allies, their resources humble yet invaluable, shall become tools for this pursuit.

You share your intentions with the gathering, the plan to fortify against the enemy met with nods of approval and a determined silence. There is little dissent; they have faced enough hardship to understand the necessity of proactive action. Even Qerot betrays an undercurrent of relief—his family stands a better chance with each moment you commit to targeting the scalemen’s operations.

Inventory:
>Stone axe
>3 Scaleman blades
>Vulture meat (minimal)
>Herbs (plenty)
>Scaleman skin (portion used for Dozer’s protective coat)
>Snakeskin
>Stone knife
>Primitive noise-makers and tripwires (in place)
>Leather straps (used for makeshift harness)
>Sled (large/heavy, can't easily carry when traveling quickly)
>4 Primitive spears
>Baskets of assorted nuts, berries, and tubers (some)

Amidst the quiet hum of preparation, reflective moments surface. Extra manpower fills you with cautious optimism—more hands to work, fight, and forage. You reflect upon the burgeoning community, hopeful that there will be life worth living, once you have taken your revenge. You’re not alone anymore... There's a future beyond mere survival!

Snapping off a piece of hard tuber, you chew thoughtfully as your gaze drifts to the tree line. In the shadowed depths, two amber eyes gleam—a familiar face of the wilderness.

The tiger watches, its presence a reminder of nature’s unyielding vigilance. You incline your head respectfully, acknowledging the predator as if voicing a silent pact. In response, the tiger slowly blinks, disappearing back into the wilderness. Its departure leaves behind a serenity you've not felt since the attack on your tribe—a promise echoing in the quiet crescendo of your own determination.

As the day unfolds, you lead your newfound allies to sharpen weapons, survey the terrain anew, and hone strategies for the battles to come.

The plan is set. The path, while fraught, is clear. You adapt. You prepare. You fight. You win.

>TO BE CONTINUED...?

>>6115999
Unfortunately, life has gotten quite busy for me, especially work. I may be able to return to this, but I don't have time for at least a few weeks. If anyone else wishes to pick it up instead, you have my blessing.

>>6116003
>>6115999
Hope you pick it back up again when it’s convenient. Thanks for running this as long as you did, QM.

The flame which burns brightest burns shortest. Thank you for carrying the torch