[[ Previous threads: http://suptg.thisisnotatrueending.com/archive.html?tags=Totem ]]

[[ Bumping for the morning crowd. ]]

[Awesome! I've been looking forward to another installment.]

Well, it's not entirely fair that we've left Elana to cook dinner for all the elders by herself. I say we play the homebody for a while, help her cook and get things ready. Don't want the elders showing up to a disheveled house and mystery cuisine.

You sigh, turning your gaze home-ward. You've put enough imposition on Elana as it is, and it would be incredibly presumptuous of you to impinge on her graciousness any further. A short walk, though longer than it would usually be due to your soreness, brings you to your workshop door.

The smell emanating from your home is mouth-watering already, and as you swing the door open an adorable sight greets your eyes. Elana is humming to herself, a wide smile on her face, as she stirs an enormous pot of stew over the fire. She wears an apron, one that you're not sure the origins of, and her long brown braid whips to and fro as she dashes across the room to add pinches of spices and vegetables. Your heart swells slightly as she turns to face you, her smile only growing.

"Welcome home, Osyki." she says, giving you a small wave. "Food's coming along well."

Well balls, I really should read the archives for this, never have the time though.

FFFFFFFFFFFF-
It's almost midnight here...

Also, do we know why Syl was distracted when we met just now?

As I go to sleep, I leave this gem: Make totems, for SCIENCE!
. . . Wait, that comes out wrong.

- Defensive/toughness/hardness totems from rock turtle shells
- Combat totems from bone warden talons
- Haste totems from drake wings/tail scales?

Start the practice of letting Cordia out of her Foci, she might be glad for the chance of interacting with the material world.

Also, about Quinn: Man, I'd really prefer having a Boy/Girl Wonder sidekick...

"Hi, need any help?"

"Hey there." you say, returning Elana's smile. "Need any help?"

"I've got this meal on lockdown." she replies, grinning cockily. "You had better be prepared for a pretty excellent meal, Totemist."

You resist the urge to roll your eyes, instead closing the door behind you. You cross the workshop with a few strides, picking up a piece of Rock Turtle shell lying on a workbench. "Whatever you say, oh mighty chef-master." you say. Your tone earns you a swat with the soup spoon, but it's a light one. You grab a book from the shelf, flipping through an archaic list of totems and instructions.

The two of you pass a few hours in this manner as you translate the writing from your master's cryptic shorthand into something resembling recognizable instructions. Elana occasionally brings over a spoon full of stew for you to taste, which is an increasingly enjoyable job to perform. You eventually sort the papers in front of you, clear on the instructions for a set of simple totems.

[Rock Turtle Shell Defensive Totem:

Good to repel illness, injury, or broken fences. When worn on a charm will repel small wounds and bruises. Set up properly, can reinforce a structure's integrity.]

[Bone Warden Claw Swiftness Totem:

A rather macabre item, the totem increases the holder's focus and manual dexterity by a moderate degree. When placed on a stake in a ring, can guard a small area from unnatural influences such as spirits or Avatars.]

[ Drake Wing Fire Totem:

A small scrap of wing membrane bound into a wooden amulet. Wards the bearer or structure from minor fire damage, expedites the extinguishing of flames. Keeps the building warm, in summer or winter.]

>>15185952
smile warmly. "I could get used to this. Now, what can I do to help?"

>>15185965
no better time than the present. And the longer you put it off, the longer the archive gets.

>>15186111
well, we've got plenty of rock Turtle parts and Bone Warden remains. I say we reinforce the village's walls, making them harder to damage, and the 'guard against unnatural influences' should provide an adequate barrier against more Spinters. Spread them around the village, every fifteen feet on the wall. We'll have to add that to the list after the anti-scrying totems.

>>15186186
The first step is churning out those totems for the Wards of Exclusion on the village walls. We can't wait around on that.

Let's see if we can put one together before the Elders get here, maybe show it to them so they understand all about it.

After that, we do have a variety of components.

I'd say we should line the walls with Rock Turtle totems if we're able, then Bone Warden totems.

Use the Drake Wing on the raising house potentially, if the Matrons want it there. Or possibly in the Forge - it's already warm and greater fireproofing is a good thing.

>>15186214
Completely agreed.

Putting aside your Totem recipes, you stare at the original list, the instructions on crafting the wards of Proxy. If you could have at least a rough mock-up available for the elders to consider, it may help your chances. You set to work on one of the ruined totems taken from the walls, polishing it with a soft cloth and removing years worth of dust and grime. The vial of blood in the inner workings is cracked beyond repair, its contents leaking out some time ago. Only a reddish stain remains to show it ever existed at all.

You work steadily for the next few hours, sometimes stopping to help Elana when she requires an extra pair of hands. Finally, about an hour before sunset, you finish. The wood has been polished to a high shine, and you've replaced the ruined receptacle within with a fresh, though empty, vial. The elders will arrive soon. Is there anything you wish to do to prepare beforehand? At the very least, organizing a place to sit and eat would be prudent.

>>15186372
Yeah, get a table and some chairs together.

Tidy up a bit, change into your most appropriate set of clothes if you have any, and put together a sort of rough shrine to your former master. They may care that you respect those that came before.

>>15186428
Agreed. Gotta make ourselves look respectable.

You look around at the disheveled state of the workshop. While certainly fitting for a Totemist, the state of the room will not do for entertaining the elders of the village. Enlisting Elana's help, the two of you quickly shunt most of the workbenches to the walls or out of the way, throwing heavy cloths over the various bits of bone and sinew strewn among the tables. Two of the tables are pushed together to form a dining area, and Elana sets to work setting places for the elders to sit while you step into the back room to change your clothes.

After a short rummage through the drawers of a nearby cabinet, you produce a set of clothing that doesn't carry the grime of your work outfit. It isn't exactly the pinnacle of fashion, but it will have to do. You change into the clothes, enjoying the feeling of softened cloth and leather on your skin.

You step out into the main room as Elana moves the final chair into position. Tryd sits by the fire, alternately stoking and bathing in the intense heat keeping the stew hot. You summon Amal to your side, and he flies across the table, small blue-green flames emitting from the corners of his prismic shape to ignite the candles of raptor-fat aligned along the table. Not a moment after, a knock comes at the door. The moment of truth, Totemist. How will you make your first impression?

See if we can let Tryd and amal out. Just because they're our servants doesn't mean we have to treat them like slaves. I have a feeling that they'll be running a lot of errands for us, so we need to start getting everyone comfortable with them.

>>15186687
Sure.

Go to the door and open it. Welcome the elders with the appropriate degree of deference, greet them by name, and offer them whatever is customary for your people.

Then get dinner on the table. Let them lead the conversation for a while, to assess their interests and what is on their minds. In the end, you serve them and the people of the village - they should have some voice.

>>15186685
Big smile, open arms. we open the door, bowing as low as we can, given what's left of our wounds. Greet them as respectfully as possible. We may be Osyki thunderfoot, village Totemist, but we're still just a kid to the elders. We've been on the job less than a week. This is a profound honor, and an immense responsibility to know that they'll be listening to suggestions we make. Don't make ourselves obsequious, but we have to be as respectful as possible. It'll also set us apart of our predecessor. I get the feeling he was a bit antagonistic to the rest of the village. We need to change that image of our profession.

>>15186732
Going back to namefagging.

Get a feel for their take on the following topics:

-What the Village needs from you, first and foremost, and to a lesser extent any differences of opinion they have on this.
-Working with the craftsmen to make the totems and strengthen the walls.
-Walther. What they think of him, why he has his position.
-Apprenticeship and your replacement should you perish.

>>15186749
Could have Amal and Tryd wait on them over dinner, that way Elana could eat with us if she wants to stay for this meeting.

>>15186770
Sounds like a good idea.

>>15186770

Does she know she was the person the fight was over? That she apparently has truesight?

>>15186983
She has at least some inkling of the former. No idea what she knows about the latter.

>>15187005

Well it's probably going to come up in the discussion. The elders will want to know just who that guy was, why he was attacking, and what we plan on doing about it.

I guess it won't hurt for her to know, although she could decide to do some foolish thing like seek out the enemy and surrender herself in exchange for a promise to leave the village alone. We'd have to watch for that and talk her firmly out of it.

>>15187025
It's fairly simple, actually. We have no guarantee that he'd stop making demands if his first demand was met, we have need for a healer in the village and Elana's the healer's apprentice, and we're pretty sure she'd undergo processes that would leave her in a rather unfortunate state in his care considering the corruption and so forth.

There's a strong chance of any attempt to surrender on her part having a net outcome of hurting her AND hurting the village for the sake of temporary safety.

>>15187057
Oh, yeah - we're also setting up a rite of exclusion or whatever to keep him out of the village, along with others like him.

That might have been our master's plan - to seal the deal, guaranteeing a promise of safety from the Magus, and then setting up the wards in order to keep him from being able to collect on the deal.

You signal Amal to open the door, standing before it. You bow low as it swings open, smiling.

"Honored Elders, welcome. Please, take a seat."

The three file in, sharing mixed looks of concern and appreciation. They take their seats, and you look over each in turn.

The Elder who has seated himself across from your place is Elder Haine. He's a kind old man. Ayren once confided in you that he was a fierce commander of some vast army in his youth, though he grows angry and runs you off every time you've tried to broach the subject with him. You're on good terms with him despite this, and he looks the most at ease in your home.

The woman seated to his left is Elder Ilysta. She was a matron when you were young, and when the previous elder died she took power with virtually unanimous approval from the village. She's got a firm mind for the day to day affairs of the village, and she's the one who oversees the farming in the village.

Finally, seated to the right of your place, is Elder Mayhew. You've not spoken often with this man, and he's rarely seen about the village. As far as you know, he's the one who oversees the justice in the village. The few trials have been a terrifying display, and all but one have ended in a death sentence for the offender, though all of them deserved. He's an imposing figure of a man, even in his advanced age. You can see a blade buckled at his side.

You take your place, as does Elana, and allow Cordia loose into the world with a soft murmur. She and Amal begin serving the stew while you prepare yourself. How will you begin, Osyki, and what topic of conversation will you broach first?

>>15187097
Ask after their health and welfare to be polite.

Then ask about the concerns of the Elders for the village and totemist.

May as well let them have the primacy of their position and let them give you their input.

After that, we should start with the most inoffensive topic and get into progressively more difficult territory to get as much done in one night as possible, since the chances of the Elders dismissing something out of hand is going to potentially stall conversation for that evening.

I suggest this order:

-What the Village needs from you, first and foremost, and to a lesser extent any differences of opinion they have on this.
-Working with the craftsmen to make the totems and strengthen the walls.
-Apprenticeship and your replacement should you perish.
-Walther. What they think of him, why he has his position.
-The Magus, the spirits of the Forest and Mountain, and your former master with all his successes and shortcomings.

What do you guys think about this?

>What will you do, Totemist?
Give sitrep. Last thing I know is Osyki fought a powerful sorceror, and was injured in the process - was spending most of his time healing.

I think really we should start with the Magus first. It's still something very fresh in everyone's mind, and kind of a matter of urgency regarding the protection totems.

We likely have a little less than three days before another one comes, given that the last one found us in four and a half since Ayren died.

>>15187097
So the Slayers fall under Mayhew's authority? We've been doing a lot of fighting lately, so we should start by thanking him for training the Slayers so well and overseeing their organization. Mention that you're particularly impressed with the bravery shown by Pierce and the others in the fight with the bone warden, and their discipline in protecting the villagers in the fight with the Magus. Don't bring up our concerns with walther yet. We need to establish that we have the village's safety in mind. Elder Haine was once a military man, so we ask them both what they think the best course of action is to protect the village. Let them know about the wards that will render the entire village camouflaged to supernatural sights, and that we'll begin working on those as soon as the healer isn't around to stop us from bleeding ourselves.

>>15187174
We spent a day doing research and went out to have a chat with Boa and Sylvia, gave back Sylvia's borrowed power, and received a cryptic request for an as-yet-unnamed favor from her.

Now we're home and entertaining the village elders so we can get some direction and see to everyone's needs, since we've made some steps toward our need to prove and arm ourselves.

>>15187223
Seconding this, after asking them what's on their minds.

>>15187147
Good plan.

Tell them about the Sorcerer. Inform them that the former totemist had some kind of deal with him, but the former totemist never talked about it, and ultimately took any details of the deal to the grave.
What we know, is that we only fought a splinter - part of its power. The sorcerer is still alive. We have plans to make defensive totems to ward him off, and want approval from the Elders to enact this.
The wards require wood and bone to be worked, and blood to be donated. Tell the Elders that in order to defend the villiage, we need to arrange a blood drive.

Also:
Ask the elders if it's appropriate that we make charms or totems to help the other people in the village - such as keeping the child-house warm, or strengthening village walls.
Walther, the chief slayer, does not trust magic; we don't want to use our craft on the village if it's inappropriate to do so.

Other issues of note:
We want to train alongside the Slayers to keep our body in top form, but Walther doesn't like us around. Ask the Elders what the appropriate diplomatic response to this is.
We may want an apprentice, in case our Bravery exceeds our not-dying Ability. Establish protocol for this - particularly which people would be appropriate to have as an apprentice.
Ask if there are any taboos against talking to and conducting business with the spirits around the village.

Most importantly:
Mention to the elders that we need patience from them - we're young as fuck so we don't know how to Protocol or Diplomacy, and can only learn through years of experience.

>>15187337
Let's not start in on Walther until later on, but yeah, this should be one of the things we touch on.

Begging them for patience is a bit whiney at this point. They haven't even given you indication of distrust yet.

The elders watch with interest, if not fascination, as the spirits serve the meal. You marshal your thoughts, then begin to speak.

"If we may, once you've had some time to settle in, I'd like to discuss what must weigh the most heavily on your minds: the recent insurgence of a creature of terrible power, a splinter of the being known as the Magus."

Elder Haine nods at this, and Ilstya give a murmur of assent. Mayhew does not make a sound, simply lifting a mouthful of the stew to his mouth, though he watches you with sharp attention.

"It is my understanding that this is a being which has come here before, when my master was the Totemist. According to this Magus, he had made a bargain with it: to provide a single child, born on the mountain's peak, to the Magus at a time in the future. In exchange, the being would leave the village unharmed."

Only Haine seems to show any signs of recognition of this, though the other two keep an entirely neutral countenance.

"It is my impression that Ayren never intended to keep this deal with The Magus." you continue. "There are wards placed around the village, now defunct, which hide our village from its sight."

At this, Mayhew nods. "Oh, we know of these Totems." he says, his voice like gravel. "Not an hour after that spirit had passed our walls, Ayren was bleeding himself dry over their creation. Took Ilysta the better part of a week to get him patched up."

You process this for a moment, then nod. "It seems that upon Ayren's death, many of the Totems went defunct. This allowed to Magus to return to our location, seeking his prize."

At this Elana shifts uncomfortably in her seat. Her eyes are firmly glued to her soup bowl, and she eats in slow, methodical bites. Elder Haine nods, placing his spoon back into his bowl. "Yes, Elana. We could hardly believe it when she was born. At the peak of the mountain, bless her poor mother's spirit. Did this thing give any indication of why he wanted her?"
(Cont.)

>>15187337
>>15187280
good points.

Ask each elder to make a separate list of everything they think our predecessor did wrong, and ask them to not hold back in any criticisms they have of us. We want the village to prosper, and part of that is making sure we integrate into its social patterns as seamlessly as possible. Ayren made some mistakes, and we want to be an improvement over him, not just a continuation.

>>15187377
That would be good at some point.

>>15187377
Makes sense. Do that.

We're allowed to get blood donations from people to power the wards, right?

"He mentioned something about 'seeing the true order of things." you say, your brow furrowed. None of the elders seem to show any recognition at this phrase, so you press onward. "Regardless, with the help of the brave action of the guard and the timely intervention of the spirit of the wood, I was able to drive this splinter to destruction."

"We saw your fight." Haine says, nodding. "It was quite a display. It reminded me of Ayren, honestly."

You take the praise with a smile, nodding. "I'm glad casualties could be minimized. I do apologize for the damage to the farms," you say, nodding to Elder Ilstya, "But there was little else I could do."

She simply shakes her head, waving off the apology. "There's no need to be ashamed, Osyki." she says. "You defended our settlement bravely."

You save your bashfulness for later, pressing on. "Thank you, but the fight nearly put an end to me. It was frankly a very close fight, and I have no doubt that The Magus will be conjuring up another Splinter of itself as we speak. That is why I seek your permission to re-make the enshrouding wards around the village."

Elder Ilstya raises an eyebrow at that. "Osyki, why would you seek our permission to take on your own craft?" she says, her voice somewhat amused.
(Cont.)

"I ask because I will require the aid of the villagers." you say, your tone grim. "For these Totems to work, they will require donations of blood. I cannot provide all the life force that they need to function on my own, and the wards will be more effective if I can get more people to contribute."

"You're asking for the villagers to donate their blood." Elder Haines says, his eyebrows arched in surprise. "An interesting first request of us."

"The villagers will shed blood, whether this is done or not." Elder Mayhews says. His tone is hard to decipher. "It may as well be in a non-permanent fashion."

"I recieved your request earlier today." Elder Ilstya says, producing the parchment from her sleeve. "It seems carefully thought out, and I'm sure the Healer will be able to keep the people from sickness."

You nod, feeling slightly triumphant inside. Your first major goal, accomplished without a hitch. What will you speak to them about now?

>>15187457
Because the wards are powered by the blood of those that are incorporated into it. When Ayren died, the wards failed When I die, the wards that hold y blood will fail. I was hoping that I could take a small donation from each member of the village. Then each ward will last as long as the life of those who donated for it. Hopefully, we can set up a system so that each ward will be replaced as its donor passes on, leaving the entire village shrouded forever. A simple pin-prick from each villager on their fifteenth birthday would be enough, I think."

If we make wards with say 4-5 people blood mixed, would it continue to function until all 5 of them were dead? If so, do it.

>>15187509
Request to know more of Ayren. We know so little about his interactions with the village and the elders. Ask about any improprieties of mistakes he made so that we never repeat them.

>>15187509
Options to speak about:
>We want to make totems to help the village - strengthen walls, protect against fires, help crops grow. Some villagers distrust magic. Ask whether we should proceed with our work anyway, or first consult the villagers. If we consult the villagers, do we need unanimous support, or just a majority support?
>Ask about Walther. He doesn't like us, but we want to work with the Slayers.
>Ask about what our former master did Wrong. Get a list of what he fucked up, so that we may learn not to fuck up
>Ask about protocol in training an apprentice. Mention that our Bravery may exceed our Not-dying ability as the reason for wanting one. Ask which villagers would be appropriate to take as an apprentice.
>Get tips on Protocol, Diplomacy, and Tradition, so that we don't have to try the Elders' patience so often.

>>15187610
We were thinking more like forty or fifty people, because there's a grand total of seventy different totems that will need to be replaced or created and about seventy five people in the village.

Not counting the sick or elderly and the children, that should give us half or so of the population to make it work.

Say the following:

(for apprenticeship")
"Honored elders, I do not mean to be pushing at boundaries here, but I should like to broach the topic of possible apprenticeship. These fights have brought me to death's door, and I would be loathe to leave the village without a totemist if I failed in my work. I have spoken to the Matrons at the raising-house and to one of Walther's men on the subject. The former said they would consider the matter of finding an apprentice but had concerns about my youth and capacity to raise a child, which I understand. The latter felt he was too old to switch professions but gave voice to interest in working with me."


(on the topic of your master's mistakes mistakes, and doing better where he did less than his best:)
"I feel my master was a capable man, but I cannot but think he may have unavoidably placed himself at risk with too young an apprentice. I will have to ensure that he made no mistake here. I would have your advice on the matter, if you would be so kind as to give it, and be glad to understand what else I might do that you had wished him to've undertaken in his days."

(to get permission for help from the craftsmen, et cetera:)
"Aside from this there is also the matter of the village craftsmen. I trust if there is nothing pressing that needs to be made, they might be employed to make the first half of the totems while the healer stores blood for their completion. In the meantime, I have found at least one totem of my masters to still be working, and will see if I can find others. If we do not have to replace them all in one go, we may save time and have the ward up sooner than otherwise. Do you mind if I go forward with this plan?"

>>15187868
It took 4 days since Ayuen's death for the splinter to arrive. By my guess, we've got less than 4 days until his replacement shows up.

Have any word on asking what we should do about Walther, and his objections to us Toteming up the town and Training with the Slayers?

>>15187887
I'm not sure what you're after. If you're asking me to compose some dialogue, I figured I'd do it in stages and let Diarcia respond. If you want to add stuff, I won't bitch about it >.>

>>15187983
I cannot into conversation.
In my (real-life) groups, I usually handle combat tactics and character optimisation. Everyone else handles the NPC interactions, and where we should go in terms of plot.
I remember what people were talking about last thread, so I reposted it.

Regardless, this discussion doesn't seem to have any merit, since Op's got yet another case of the Hasn't posted for an hour.

He should probably see a doctor about that.

>>15188029
Cool. Yeah, I recall that as well.
The idea is basically that we have to optimize everything to get the initial set of exclusion totems up so the magus cannot enter the town. After that we can embellish the defenses with extra shit.

I was cutting down on the required time by getting permission from the elders to use the craftsmen and only replacing the actually broken totems, as we found one out of the three or so we checked not to be broken. If that ratio holds, we may only have to replace about fifty of them.

As for dialogue, I'll be glad to offer what I can and integrate other people's topic choices. Just not all at once.

From what others have mentioned, the next dialogue topics after these get resolved will be:

-What the Village needs from its totemist in the forseeable future.

-Relations with foreign powers, like Sylvannis and the spirit of the mountain and any settlements you may happen upon in future.

-Walther and the slayers. That they are well trained and that you find his leadership and opinions to be the sort that troubles you. Going to fold in the bit about training with them.

"Honored elders, I do not mean to be pushing at boundaries here, but I should like to broach the topic of possible apprenticeship. These fights have brought me to death's door, and I would be loathe to leave the village without a Totemist if I failed in my work. I have spoken to the Matrons at the raising-house and to one of Walther's men on the subject. The former said they would consider the matter of finding an apprentice but had concerns about my youth and capacity to raise a child, which I understand. The latter felt he was too old to switch professions but gave voice to interest in working with me."

The elders consider this for a moment, then nod. Haine speaks up. "It would be in your best interest, I believe, to take on both. It is unusual, granted, but given the circumstances I think that we could stand to deviate from tradition. It would be less of a burden for you if you were aided in raising your apprentice, and should you fall, you would have two working in your stead, as opposed to one. You cannot ask for a better student than one who asks you to teach, but at the same time, it is much simpler to mold young minds. Take both under your wing, Totemist, and I think that you will find that your risk will pay off."

"If he can handle the responsibility." Mayhews says suddenly. "It's all well and good to look after yourself, but I don't think that the Totemist is quite prepared for the risks and responsibilities of raising a child, even aided by an... assistant."

>>15188130
"Elder Mayhews, this has been a concern of the Matrons and one of my own. I wonder if if would be allayed if I came to those with time on their hands for help in raising any such a child - were they willing. Do you have any insight into how it might be made to work, despite my inexperience? Perhaps you and the other Elders could, in your greater experience, see clear to a solution."

If this resolves the topic, move on to the next one.

>>15188130
Roger that. Get both.

Ask them what Ayren did wrong, bad, sub-optimal, or in some way displeasing to the elders. If we learn what mistakes he made, we can then NOT repeat those mistakes.

We got permission for the blood drive? Good, we do that as soon as the dinner is over and we are rested. Unsure what time of day it is in-game.

Talk about Walther, too.

I assume it's not necessary for Osyki to make/find things to sell, because as long as we're doing our job in the village we have enough reputation to just ask for things, such as craftwork.

>>15188230
Seconding this.

>>15188230
>time of day
It's late at night IIRC, this and maybe a conversation with the matrons is all we're likely to have time for.

Could run a message to the healer, though.

Oh come on, is the Op seriously going to take another hour to respond to a conversation we're already undertaking?

Diarca, any chance you have the energy to speed up reply posts?

>>15188445
could be technical difficulties. Or he could be moving around.

Consider asking the Elders if they'd like to meet some of the free spirits of the area. We could take them to see Boand, and they're free to ask Tryd or Amal any questions they may have. We want to dispel some of the mystique around our profession.

Also, we need to ask how Walther got his position, and what they think of him. Mention that you know he's scared of the powers you wield, and that he attempted to cow us with a display of bravado and aggression earlier today.

Note for later: Next time we see the healer, ask her when she thinks we'll be ready to begin jogging and light exercise.

so.... are we calling it here and archiving it? I hope not.

>>15188950
Diarca's email mentioned having to get to an eye doctor's appointment, so probably, yeah.

>>15189203
you got an email from him?

Maybe he needs to set up a tinyurl infopage like Mutant Quest does. Certainly make things easier. Hopefully he'll be ok and back in a few hours.

>>15189460
More like Diarca has a mailing list for when the game's on. He gave out the email in one of the previous threads.

>>15189493
Must've missed it, but I don't check my email often enough to really catch it in time (once every two or three days, really).

[[ Hey folks. Working on the next post now. Had to give my eyes time to re-dilate. Sorry for the delay. ]]

"Elder Mayhews, this has been a concern of the Matrons and one of my own. I wonder if if would be allayed if I came to those with time on their hands for help in raising any such a child - were they willing. Do you have any insight into how it might be made to work, despite my inexperience? Perhaps you and the other Elders could, in your greater experience, see clear to a solution." you say, bowing your head deferentially to him. Elder Haines waves his hand. "Two young men are more than capable of raising a child, Roth." he says. "You worry too much."

Elder Mayhews simply grunts at this, swallowing another spoonful of soup. You resist the urge to grimace, deciding to tactfully change the subject.

"I'd like to open up the table to you now, so to speak." you say. "What does the village require that I can be of assistance in? Once the charms of warding are made I'd like to shore up the defenses of the village walls, but I'd certainly be happy to hear what woes the village has that I could cure."

"The rains are delayed this season." Elder Ilstya chimes in. "I'm afraid the crops may not turn out well enough to get us through the winter. Perhaps you could negotiate with the spirits in that regard?"

"There's also the matter of the guard." Mayhews says, bringing your previous thread of conversation to a screeching halt. "From what I hear, Totemist, the captain has not been getting along favorably with you. I've never known him to trouble a Totemist before. What could cause such an abrupt change in his behavior?"

Mayhews peers at you through his thick beard, his eyes like that of a shark; entirely devoid of color, and empty of feeling.

>>15190088
Grimace, and let all the Elders see that indeed this is a delicate subject to us too.

"Chief Walthers has... Declared openly that he is not *particularly* comfortable with the things that I -and by extensions all Totemists- am capable of doing with the help of the spirits."

"In his own words, he resents my practicing what he called a dark art."

Wait and see how the Elders respond. Some might agree with this distinction. Either way, accept it as par for the course.

"At the same time, he also seems to have the notion that by having a Totemist around, simply draws the attention -for good or ill- of the spirits, and worse." And add shortly, "And that I am too young for such a responsibility."

>>15190088
I assume it may be because he neither likes nor trusts what I and all Totemists do, but was too intimidated by my master to say anything about it.
...Though if what you say is true, there might be another explanation.

>>15190088
"Captain Walthers has personal objections to the powers I wield. He has said so, both to my face and when he thought I could not hear. I have gathered that he felt similarly about Ayren, but was too intimidated by my former master to speak openly. He sees me as a weak replacement, and would have me as his lowest subordinate, if not have me expelled from the village altogether. I think he also sees me as a threat to his authority, as many of the Slayers have come to respect me since the Bone Warden incident. Only two or three of the Slayers believe as he does, and I doubt he'll be able to muster any support. I appreciate his discipline, but his draconian measures and prejudices are alienating many of the other Slayers. I am not particularly worried about him, despite his clumsy attempts at intimidation, though I am curious as to how he gained his position when much more reasonable men are available."

"Captain Walthers has personal objections to the powers I wield. He has said so, both to my face and when he thought I could not hear. I have gathered that he felt similarly about Ayren, but was too intimidated by my former master to speak openly." you begin, your face darkening as you speak. Haines gives a small chuckle, and Mayhews smiles.

"He sees me as a weak replacement, and would have me as his lowest subordinate, if not have me expelled from the village altogether. I think he also sees me as a threat to his authority, as many of the Slayers have come to respect me since the Bone Warden incident."

"And rightfully so!" Elder Ilstya chimes in. You smile.

" Magus O'Grady 06/07/11(Tue)21:08 No.15190406

>>15190088
"Captain Walthers has personal objections to the powers I wield. He has said so, both to my face and when he thought I could not hear. I have gathered that he felt similarly about Ayren, but was too intimidated by my former master to speak openly. He sees me as a weak replacement, and would have me as his lowest subordinate, if not have me expelled from the village altogether. I think he also sees me as a threat to his authority, as many of the Slayers have come to respect me since the Bone Warden incident. Only two or three of the Slayers believe as he does, and I doubt he'll be able to muster any support. I appreciate his discipline, but his draconian measures and prejudices are alienating many of the other Slayers. I am not particularly worried about him, despite his clumsy attempts at intimidation, though I am curious as to how he gained his position when much more reasonable men are available."
(cont.)

At this, Elder Mayhews clears his throat. "Guard Captain Walthers is, believe it or not, a singularly skilled combatant. He earned his position through sheer tenacity and skill, and I'd be surprised to see anyone take it from him. Though he is a pig-headed boor, he's the best fighter we've got in this village who doesn't deal with spirits."

You're taken aback at this. You really cannot imagine fat, slovenly Walther using his sword for anything but slicing hunks of meat from a leg for his plate, but it occurs to you that you've not really seen Walther fight, either.

>>15190493
Muse sadly (and this is exactly what I had thought reading that section),

"If he is that good... I wonder, if only he would be willing to use some of the totems... This village could have another defender at times of need."

How should we proceed with Walthers then?
Continue with what else?

>>15190493
"I have never seen him in action, so I suppose my experience is limited. His disdain for the 'dark arts' I study not withstanding, he truly believes he has the best interests of the village at heart. I suppose if foolishness were a crime we'd have a very small village indeed, so I'll bear his insults and threats. If he is as good as you say, then the village needs him training the Slayers. And hopefully myself. I intend to begin training with the newer Slayers. My recent experiences have taught me that my weapons and spirits multiply what I can do, but my personal combat skills are lacking. Hopefully Quinn, the young Slayer who expressed interest in studying under me, will be able to bring me up to speed, if that is acceptable to you?"

>>15190493
"If skill with the blade is the only measure of worth, honored elders, then I can raise no objection that will concern you. But if skill in command and inspiration is also of note for a position with such freedoms and power, I will have to ask you to consider that this is a man who not only fractures the loyalty of his own guards, but also dishonors another for petty reasons. And frankly, this man intimated that I could not 'protect' my sister 'forever,' making much of her appearance. If this continues, I will be less than confidant in my safety in the village, or that of my kin, which brings me to a question I must ask you, a question raised by the presence of this man whose grasp on the world tremors so much that he claims I bring down the wrath of great beasts on my people. Such lack of clear thought suggests to me that he might be capable of any deed."

"What rights have I by our customs to bear grievance against a man who does me a heap of small injustices that, while I care not a whit for their stain on my reputation, begin to add up to making me worry for a knife at my throat and my kinswoman taken advantage of, and worry enough to keep me from fulfilling my duties? I have fortitude enough and great trust in the law, but fortitude alone does not prevent wrongdoing if I must be beyond the walls in the course of my work, and the law exists to dole out justice, each to each - it is incapable of acting against one before he does wrong because it must be fair, and so it rights wrongs rather than undoing them."

"Can I, for instance, ask that a trial of arms be held to find out if the sitting captain's blade is still the best, and if the trust that guarantees his position might not be better placed in another man?"

>>15190603
>>15190677

Which would you prefer?

>>15190780
go with Editor's. I htink his is better.

>>15190780
State our grievances as Editor mentions, but keep I prefer our concluding statement to be of Magus'.

Let the Elders decide.

Also voting for Editor's stance.

>>15190851
Yours wasn't bad at all, bro. I don't think it's going to get us as close to closure as a longer one, is all.

>>15191218
I was trying to change the subject with a relevant segue, but yours really hammers the point home.

"If skill with the blade is the only measure of worth, honored elders, then I can raise no objection that will concern you." you say, your face a grimace. "But if skill in command and inspiration is also of note for a position with such freedoms and power, I will have to ask you to consider that this is a man who not only fractures the loyalty of his own guards, but also dishonors another for petty reasons. And frankly, this man intimated that I could not 'protect' my sister 'forever,' making much of her appearance. If this continues, I will be less than confidant in my safety in the village, or that of my kin, which brings me to a question I must ask you, a question raised by the presence of this man whose grasp on the world tremors so much that he claims I bring down the wrath of great beasts on my people. Such lack of clear thought suggests to me that he might be capable of any deed."

The Elders gathered around the table are quiet at this news, though their expressions could be more accurately described as 'disquieted'. Elder Haines has a steadily rising red coloration in his face, while Elder Ilstya has a hand over her mouth. Mayhews only watches you, his hands on the table.

"What rights have I by our customs to bear grievance against a man who does me a heap of small injustices that, while I care not a whit for their stain on my reputation, begin to add up to making me worry for a knife at my throat and my kinswoman taken advantage of, and worry enough to keep me from fulfilling my duties? I have fortitude enough and great trust in the law, but fortitude alone does not prevent wrongdoing if I must be beyond the walls in the course of my work, and the law exists to dole out justice, each to each - it is incapable of acting against one before he does wrong because it must be fair, and so it rights wrongs rather than undoing them."
(cont.)

"That would be an area for my expertise." Mayhews says, finally speaking. "If what you say is true, young Totemist, then rest assured, I will be the one to take care of it. Until then, I urge you to keep an even temper and stay your hand. I trust that you remember what happened to our last example of vigilante justice."

You remember well. The trial had been short, as the evidence had been overwhelmingly in favor of the prosecution. The defendant in question had seen fit to take the law into his own hands over a long-standing feud, slaying two enemy clansmen in their sleep. His execution was mercifully quick.

"I have never seen him in action, so I suppose my experience is limited. His disdain for the 'dark arts' I study not withstanding, he truly believes he has the best interests of the village at heart. I suppose if foolishness were a crime we'd have a very small village indeed, so I'll bear his insults and threats. If he is as good as you say, then the village needs him training the Slayers. And hopefully myself. I intend to begin training with the newer Slayers. My recent experiences have taught me that my weapons and spirits multiply what I can do, but my personal combat skills are lacking. Hopefully Quinn, the young Slayer who expressed interest in studying under me, will be able to bring me up to speed, if that is acceptable to you?"

The Elders all nod. "We have no issue with members of our village working together toward its defense and well-being, Osyki." Elder Ilstya says, her smile warm. "The initiative which you show in pursuing your betterment is encouraging."

"Better than the browbeating I had to give Ayren over cooperating with the guard, at least." Haines agrees.

>>15185952

What a day to be late to Totemist Quest.

>>15191324
Looks like Haines brought up a convenient segue to what sort of man Overwake was.
We should bring up that the Spirit Boand as well as Sylvannis herself didn't seem to hold him in high regard.
Like we believe that to be a worthy successor to him we must also endeavor to avoid any... mistakes he made.

>>15191290
>>15191324
"Very well. I thank you for your counsel in the matter. I still feel the urge to say that I might sleep better if a trial of arms was quietly held and it were ascertained if another of our guards - who are at least well enough trained, I expect in part do to your own involvement - if it were seen if another had surpassed the current captain's skill with the blade over time and was a better vessel for the trust placed in the current one. But be that as it may, there are other matters and it is not my decision."

"First, at the least as a formality as a formality, I will ask your permission to approach the craftsmen about the making of the first thirty totems. I expect you would know if they've anything more pressing than this task relating to getting the wards to work again and rein me in if it was needed. Second, I would ask for your take on any stances I should have when it comes to dealing with the great spirits of the forest and mountain. The latter I have not yet met, and the former seems to have some favor for me. There is also the matter of what is to happen should I stumble across another settlement of men and woman that has somehow managed to survive in the wilds - I have bound a spirit that claims to know of one such attempt, and so there may be others."

(Cont's.)

>>15191570
(Cont'd.)

"Third, I would beg you for your advice. I am as yet new to my post, and your greater experience and wisdom would be a help, should you wish to impart anything. As well, there is this: I feel my master was a capable man, and yet I cannot but think he may have done a few things not unlike unavoidably placing himself at risk with too young an apprentice. I will have to ensure that he made no mistake there myself, but you knew him in a different way than did I. I would have your advice on the matter of what you saw in him that was unwise, that I should not repeat, if you would be so kind as to give it. I'd be glad to understand what else I might do that you may have wished him to've undertaken in his days."

>>15191421
Second, what kind a man was Ayren Overwake, from the perspective of the Elders?
We have the perspective of the apprentice, and a young child.
We have some from the spirits whom had interacted with the man himself.
What say the Elders about this man?

>>15191570
>>15191577
No on the part of mentioning about the trial-at-arms.
Mayhew has taken the matter into consideration, and mentioning it further would be unseemly.

Seconding the rest.

>>15191616
It's just throwing out a thing, and making it clear that the decision isn't yours and you'll respect that.

Besides, Mayhew is law and order, not hiring and firing. This is politics, it's bigger than just him - unless you think that Walther's the best possible guard captain ASIDE from all the interpersonal shenanigans that he has with Osyki.

>>15191616
I have to agree here. This is the dour elder in charge of ALL matters of justice and defense. He said he'd handle it. Another word on the subject could be seen as a lack of faith in his abilities. They've put their faith in us, and we've got to respond. We have to trust him 100% on this and put it out of our minds.

>>15191681
We don't have to trust him any more than we have to trust everything our master did, and he's definitely in charge of justice, but not necessarily defence. Haine was the one that lead an army in his youth.

Anyway, the votes are coming in. Anyone else want to chime in or shall we ask Diarca to work his magic now?

>>15191644
Please, don't put words in my mouth.
No, I do not think that Walthers is the best candidate, but I cannot say that he is not one, in consideration as what others have claimed of his combat skills.

But he isn't even near to be a good candidate from Osyki's experience.

And Elder Mayhew is practically the person all Slayers' would be responsible to, even Walthers.

Yeah let's not bring up the trial at arms. We're toeing the line as it is so it's best not to push it.
Especially because there's a decent chance that when push comes to shove I wouldn't be surprised if Walthers really does have what it takes.

>>15191719
Heh, you are more paranoid than me... :D

>>15191867
Paranoia is the best way to get ahead.

If Walthers has what it takes and shows it at a trial, that's GREAT. It makes the guards understand and respect this, and motivates us to resolve issues rather than be antagonistic because we suspect that he is useless.

There is no real downside to getting a trial to occur.

>>15191719

[[ As there have been some complaints of me taking too long, let's set a general rule that you'll all let me know when you've reached a decision so I can start writing without waiting too long or leaving anyone out. ]]

I'm of the mind we should just let Mayhew deal with Walthers with whatever plan he has.

>>15191759
Sorry, wasn't intending to put words in your mouth so much as take a given thought to its conclusion.

Alright, guys. I made my points, you outvoted me. I ain't gonna start nothin'

We done?

Mayhew seems like a ruthless dude, if he can't handle it it's because he doesn't want to, and if that's the case talking won't help anyway.

>>15191885
Okay, perhaps my paranoia is greater than yours then. I always feel paranoia is a rather limiting factor to have.

I fear that using a Trial, even if Walthers won, would make Osyki the target of his ire.

Also, that you feel you cannot trust Elder Mayhew is what I mentioned as...

Wait, I tend to extrapolate things out of given facts/opinions (which, might not be true, but nevertheless is the only thing available at the time)...
Am I just a pessimist, instead of a paranoid?

My mind, blown.
+changes name+

"At the least as a formality as a formality, I will ask your permission to approach the craftsmen about the making of the first thirty totems. I expect you would know if they've anything more pressing than this task relating to getting the wards to work again and rein me in if it was needed." you say, looking around at the three assembled with you. Elana has, at this point, stopped staring directly are her bowl and is listening to you with interest. Amal floats past you, refilling Elder Mayhew's bowl of stew. Elder Ilstya shakes her head, and smiles.

"Osyki, nothing is more pressing than the defense of our village. I think we all know that. Please, approach the craftsmen with our blessing."

The other two nod their assent. You smile, continuing. "Thank you, Elder. Second, I would ask for your take on any stances I should have when it comes to dealing with the great spirits of the forest and mountain. The latter I have not yet met, and the former seems to have some favor for me. There is also the matter of what is to happen should I stumble across another settlement of men and woman that has somehow managed to survive in the wilds - I have bound a spirit that claims to know of one such attempt, and so there may be others."

"Matters of the Spirits are your field of expertise, boy." Elder Haines says, dabbing at the corner of his mouth with a cloth. "Keep them appeased if you can, keep them away if you can't. Past that, I'm afraid my knowledge is sub-par. As for other settlements..."

"If you find them, report it to us immediately." Elder Mayhews says. "We will deliberate on how to proceed. We would need to ascertain how hostile such a settlement might be, and failing any trades of blows, how a connection might be made to bolster our share strengths."
(Cont.)

"Third, I would beg you for your advice. I am as yet new to my post, and your greater experience and wisdom would be a help, should you wish to impart anything. As well, there is this: I feel my master was a capable man, and yet I cannot but think he may have done a few things not unlike unavoidably placing himself at risk with too young an apprentice. I will have to ensure that he made no mistake there myself, but you knew him in a different way than did I. I would have your advice on the matter of what you saw in him that was unwise, that I should not repeat, if you would be so kind as to give it. I'd be glad to understand what else I might do that you may have wished him to've undertaken in his days."

There is a long silence, broken only by the scraping of spoons against bowls and a soft sigh by Elder Haines.

"Your master was a very secretive man, Osyki." The elders says. "Many of the villagers had a healthy sense of fear for him, simply because of the mysterious nature of the power he wielded. I wont argue that it made his job simpler, but it certainly didn't do wonders for the morale around the village when odd sounds and lights would burst from this hut at all hours of the night. He always seemed to put his own research just slightly before the well-being of the village, and he was taken with leaving the town for extended periods of time, leaving only a wall of wards and Totems in his place. Now clearly, those were effective enough to hold the outside world at bay while he was gone. Still, it didn't do wonders for our sense of confidence that when push came to shove, he'd choose us over his own hide."

>>15192117
A pessimist is classically defined as someone who cheerfully expects the worst and isn't made to feel down when it occurs.

A cynic thinks everything is shit.

I'm mostly just a half-baked rationalist that only goes with recognized patterns and the face value of things when making observations.

>>15192178
"He was a hard man, and capable, but too reclusive for his own good. I hope to be just as capable, but more open. And if becoming as good as he was means sacrificing my connection to the village, I will content myself with second-best. You may have noticed that Tryd and Amal have run errands for me around the village. I hope that interacting with them will ease peoples minds about what I do. I don't want to be feared.

In fact, I was considering exposing the children to a bit of fun with Tryd. He's a soot imp, and I think a game of 'tag' with him will leave the children at the raising house smudged, but happy. Though I think the Matrons will want me flogged for getting the children dirty, who ever heard of a child who didn't enjoy a good mess? It will let them see that not all spirits are fearsome beasts, nor are all totemists dour old hermits. I have a powerful role to revise, but I want to start by letting the people know that I am here to help them in every way possible. In work and play. Also, this will help me see if any of the children have a connection to the spirits. That should help me choose a younger apprentice to take on.

That may have to wait for later, though. I believe we have no more than three days before another splinter of the Magus comes here. I want all of the wards in place by then. That needs to be my top priority. Until this village is invisible to the Magus again, nothing else matters to me."

>>15192248
Huh. That's something new. Always thought pessimist was the doom-and-gloom type. Always called myself optimistic pessimist for being cheerful for all my paranoid forecasts.
I need to read up on the subject matter more, I guess.

>>15192130
Hmm, so that means we'll need to grill Cordia about her place, sooner or later.

>>15192178
Good that we are putting a better face then, eh?
Was Ayren a traveling Totemist that had just decided to stay in the village? Or was he another one of the village's many sons? Who was his Master?

After those, I guess we can conclude this meet.
Now, I guess we can call upon Quinn's help, and one of the kids that the Matrons think suitable.

Fuck, Chinese character for Captcha...
Fuck, typed wrong for the second Captcha...

We should see if we can't get a general location out of cordia, at least so we could attempt to bury whatever dead are left unburied.

And who knows, we may find something useful.

>>15192538
Seconding this after we're done with everything else today.
>>15192400
>Was Ayren a traveling Totemist that had just decided to stay in the village? Or was he another one of the village's many sons? Who was his Master?

Maybe he kept a personal journal that goes back to his apprenticeship?

>>15192384
And seconding this, as before.

"He was a hard man, and capable, but too reclusive for his own good. I hope to be just as capable, but more open. And if becoming as good as he was means sacrificing my connection to the village, I will content myself with second-best. You may have noticed that Tryd and Amal have run errands for me around the village. I hope that interacting with them will ease peoples minds about what I do. I don't want to be feared."

Elder Ilstya nods, smiling. "I was pleasantly surprised to see your spirit delivering a message to me." she says.

"In fact, I was considering exposing the children to a bit of fun with Tryd. He's a soot imp, and I think a game of 'tag' with him will leave the children at the raising house smudged, but happy. Though I think the Matrons will want me flogged for getting the children dirty, who ever heard of a child who didn't enjoy a good mess? It will let them see that not all spirits are fearsome beasts, nor are all Totemists dour old hermits."

At this, even Mayhew cracks a small smile. Elder Haine is grinning broadly, nodding. "Just make sure that you can dodge the Matrons. They'll tan your hide."

"I have a powerful role to revise," you continue, "but I want to start by letting the people know that I am here to help them in every way possible. In work and play. Also, this will help me see if any of the children have a connection to the spirits. That should help me choose a younger apprentice to take on."
(Cont.)

Elder Mayhew raises an eyebrow. "An interesting approach, Totemist. I'd not thought you so clever by half." You choose to take that as a compliment.

"That may have to wait for later, though. I believe we have no more than three days before another splinter of the Magus comes here. I want all of the wards in place by then. That needs to be my top priority. Until this village is invisible to the Magus again, nothing else matters to me."

"Then we are agreed." Elder Haines says, nodding. "First thing tomorrow, the craftsmen will put aside their projects to craft new vessels for these totems, while you and the Healer will organize the blood donation."

You nod. "That sounds excellent. Thank you for your understanding."

Elder Ilstya smiles at you. "We may be the heads of the village, Osyki, but I think that you will find that we are not unreasonable. We are impressed by your diligence and thoughtfulness in these regards. Your actions reflect well upon you."

>>15192703
>>15192694
"You do me a great kindness. Is there anything else you would see fit to speak of?"

If there is, listen to their input. If there isn't, bid them goodnight, thank Elana for her assistance (potentially as, erm, fondly as she lets you), ask her if she has any thoughts, and get going on talking to the Matrons before the day ends. We might be able to catch our sister.

>>15192932
And that's a second from me.

Hay Diarca, you distracteds?

is OP alive?

>>15192932
Third.

After mentioning making Tryd a playmate (less hide tanned if we pre-empt them!), we should go and have a chat with Quinn. Then...

Casual Totem-making? Or if Elena is still around, cuddle and comfort?

>>15193336
>>15193340

Still here. Working on a long one.

NNNNNNNNNNNG TOTEM QUEST YES

Of course, after reading through all the archives, I come in as a session is wrapping up. Still, can't wait to see more.

[[ Scratch that. Not going to finish this one before I hit the hay, so I'll post it as the intro for next time. Thanks for playing, folks, and sorry for the delays between posts. I know that I can count on /tg/ to be up for a quest come eye exam or blood red moon.

Speaking on which, next time on Totemist Quest: Possibly the blood red moon.

Don't forget to vote up. Email for the mailing list's in this post. See you next time. ]]