>The war, however, is not the only thing spreading chaos about the land. The gods, and the arcane are returning to the world after nearly 4000 years of having been thought dead. You, are at the forefront of those in the empire re-discovering that which has been lost for four millenia, and your ultimate goal is to become the Praetorian of the Divine.
>
>That office once thought lost to obsolescence with the disappearance of the gods, 1000 some years after the mortal races, humans, dwarves, elves, the cat-like felixsians, and the massive hulking lizard-men known as lacertans, killed the gods immortal servants on the mortal plain, the 6 Dragons, Elemental Patriarchs and Elemental Matrairchs 5000 years ago.
>You are currently going through a much needed period of staff enlargement and tending to your persoinal assets, and most of your plans involve either training the arcanists in the maniples of the other members of the Praetorian Militants fists, and the new order tasked with hunting and killing the vicious, bestial Loukys, an ancient race of intelligent predatory creatures recently returned to the land of the living.

The next morning comes softly. You had spent the night watching over Cornelius and Aurelius as they hid from the harshness of their realities in the bottoms of cups and bottles, drinking only a little yourself. No secrets were spilt, and with his commanding officer nearby, Cornelius never went beyond glancing to the drug dealers in the back of the bar. You look out your window to see Janos already tutoring Wulf, who is absentmindedly laquering a suit of scalemail he took from your armory, a deep gray and crimson for his supposed lordly colors. You could speak with the gods if you wished, you have confidence that it would be safe to converse with all of them by now, but it may be prudent to speak with some of the other members of your maniple, you suppose.

>>15344740
At this point I think we should either talk to the gods or talk to Janos, Dasesu and Wulf to talk about what they'll need for this mission and to give them the go ahead to do whatever they need.

Talking to the three of them might be best since time is precious and they need to know things ASAP.

Chat up Deaseu and Wulf. Inform them that they are to run like little girls if things are about to turn bad, thinking of nothing but getting away and back to our maniple. That's an order.

That way if it falls through the the two who know about the plan will be gone and our two valued retinue members and friends will be safe.

>>15344740
So, here's what we've got planned or in progress to make this less of a suicide mission for Wulf and Daeseu:
1. Valkyrie Honor Guard, actually there as "GTFO Button" to escape by air.
2. Daeseu himself, an assassin, is good at disappearing and getting the hell out of an area.
3. Call up Eago, bargain for some divine protection: we don't want to lose Wulf, and he doesn't want to lose his Chosen. Make sure that Wulf comes back to us in a timely fashion, and not just wandering around without his memory acting as Eago's champion.
4. Call up all of the other gods as well, see what boons, favors, and markers we can call in or put ourselves into debt for, to make sure that the chances of success for this operation are increased. Especially with the God of Trickery; he should like our deception plan.

I think that's everything we've got for now. Undoubtedly we'll come up with more.

>>15344787
I second talking with all three right now. If we plan stuff now, maybe they'll have ideas for specific favors that we can ask the gods for, rather than general favors that would be more expensive.

>>15344825
Let's see how the Basheek feels first, or however his name is spelt, before talking to him. Remember, his thing is more than just deception. If it was only deception, the guy would like us already with some of the things we do. I honestly don't think he'll be willing to help. The only ones I'm hedging my bets on being willing to help are Raynha and Eago.

>>15344845
Yeah, Raynha and Eago are almost certain to aid us.
Maybe Garagush, for bringing in another faction to this war.

You have a point about Baashek, but this goes beyond simple trickery and deception. This is outright lying and manipulating a friend to join a costly war on our side. We should at least talk with him about it after meeting with Raynha, Eago, and Garagush.
Any thoughts about the other gods?
Pax, can we put up like, an astral Craiglist ad for favors and boons we want, and see which gods answer?

>>15344886
I'm against farming up a ton of boons here.

>>15344886
Besides what's been mentioned, the rest of the moon pantheon will either not want to help us or be indifferent. In regards to the sun pantheon, Jogra and Nyetini might also be willing to help. Jogra because of the friendship side of things and Nyetini because this plan is going to spare a lot of lives.

No thanks to those loser old guard commanders though.

>>15344905
Normally I would be too, however, I'm not too sure how well Wulf will do without extra help. I'm thinking the odds will be stacked against him to the point where he's going to need some godly intervention to make it out alive and back to us.

>>15344905
You think I WANT to be asking favors of the Divine, licking at their bootheels for boons?
I only do this out of necessity, and only the minimum required to ensure the success of this operation and the survival of Wulf and Daeseu.

>>15344929
>>15344947
Asking a divine favor from Eago or maybe Jogra? Okay, we can cash in one of those chips.

Asking multiple divine favors from a huge range of gods? Hah hah, no.

>>15344978
That depends entirely on how much power the gods have available.
They're just returning, and there's no way to know what they can offer, or if it would be enough.
Raynha was able to do what she did for us, only because her power has been restored faster than that of the others due to our actions.

Sure, if the powers of Eago, Raynha, and Jogra are enough, then I'm more than happy to just leave it at that.
What we're discussing are the other gods we may have to turn to in case they can't provide all of what we need.

>>15344978

considering that this is a VERY good chance for any gods/goddesses we've angered to deal us a heavy blow by either acting to thwart this plan or get Wulf killed/captured/maimed, I'm all for asking favors of any divine entity willing to help the boy if it is needed.

Also guys, remember that Baashek's thing isn't just deception... it's duplicity and thirst for power and results at any cost.

I think false-flag attacking an ally to pull them into a war qualifies.

Garagush, Raynha, and Nyetini will all be happy that we did it without slaughtering civilians.

Jogra will be pissed we are sending our friends into danger but mitigate it by knowing that they ARE soldiers and signed on for this in the first place. Plus asking for his help to protect them at a cost to us will likely put us right back in his good graces.

Once again Lamynus will be pissed at us for stopping wanton destruction, but really fuck that bitch.

>>15345023
The only one we've really pissed off is Lamynus, and we've pretty much fucked her powerbase over CONSTANTLY. I imagine she's probably weaker than any of the other gods at this point.

Baashek probably doesn't like us for bringing down his champion, but his very nature as a god of deception, duplicity, and backstabbing plans would drive him to see this particular plan through and keep it secret. I imagine such a large scale deception is feeding him more power than his ex-champion ever could.

>>15345069
Baashek could just as easily be supporting another plan that stands to give him more power and would be damaged by this plan.

Honestly, I must voice concern over anyone suggesting that a god of "scheming, trickery, gaining power by any means" is certain to support any plan.

>>15345173
It's only meant as a backup, in case that Eago, Jogra, and Raynha don't have enough power yet to ensure the success of the mission and the safe return of Wulf and Daeseu.

Though I am curious if we can get the Divine to call a truce between their pantheons and us while the Loukys are still a threat.

>>15345233
I'm fairly sure we don't have THAT much divine rep at this point.

Maybe after the war.

>back from emergency food shopping, I'm getting abandoned for the week, so I took the free food when it was offered

Sighing, you stretch and head out to speak with Wulf and Janos. When you reach the pair, early morning light glinting off the suit of armor Wulf is experimenting on Janos asks him "And who are you again?"

Wulf sighs, and responds "Tristain Dreloth. My father was a wealthy merchant along the Southern Greyrun, but his ship was destroyed by the Midnight Dragons river-spikes, and he died during Lucretius' fourth sacking of Dyrons Ford. I spent my fathers money to piece together my army, and am set on having a city of my own to rule."

Janos nods "Do you have any siblings?"

Wulf shakes his head "Younger, and all dead."

"Cousins, aunts, uncles, a mother?" Janos presses.

"All dead, and of lower station than my father." Wulf replies, holding up the dark gray suit, and nodding approvingly, before beginning to add crimson to the trim.

"Slaves?" Janos asks, leaning against a tree and rubbing his eyes.

Wulf pauses before replying "No, both myself and my family were all strongly against slavery."

Janos lets the back of his head slam into the tree "Wrong. The Greyrun Lords are all strongly in favor of slavery, and their subjects agree with them. Were you from TruthsHaven, or Gatrisport that story would be believable, but then you would not be in the south. Your father was a slaver, and if your power grab fails, that is what you will tell the lordless knights you hire is your planned profession should your attempt at ceasing nobility fail."

You step forward "And what is your true mission?"
>cont'd

Wulf turns to face you, salutes, and responds "I am to incite war between the Dwemer Duchy and the Kingdom of Uurlanth."

"And after that is done?" you ask, hoping for an intelligent answer.

"I am to find you, and report for duty, it would be... strange, for the Midnight Dragons protege to return to DragonsReach instead of his commander after completing an assignment away from the maniple." Wulf replies evenly, though it is clear that he is assuming that is what you would order, and not fully sure that that is the case.

You let the assumption slide "And if you fail?"

Wulf shakes his head "I wont."

>>15345485
"I want you two to talk to Dasesu and go over what you might need to ensure your mission and extraction is successful. I've also been considering lending you some of our valkyrie's although it would obviosuly be without the repeaters. Would that help Wulf's disguise to have a small number of them with him or hinder it?"

>>15345485
"You can always fail. I can always fail. Remember when I led us right into an ambush of elven archers in the north? No one can predict everything.

If you fail you are to flee quickly and silently with Daeseu. Or separately, whichever you think gives the best chance of both your survival. If you start thinking of heroics or saving the country and making a valiant effort that takes your life... then perhaps you should remember Lena, instead."

>>15345485
"Janos, would it seem out of place if there were to be a small unit of Valkyrie knights with 'Lord Dreloth' as his personal guard? I am unsure if I can get sufficiently tight-lipped men from the Skywings, but I think an additional avenue of escape would be good to have."

>>15345564
The nation of Degnar, however, cannot afford the failure of this plan. Failure could lead to the Duchy siding with Uurlanth and the Guilds, and would spell the end of the Empire.

>>15345580
If the plan fails the plan fails. No amount of bravado is going to change that, all that will be let to do is salvage what we can. That means getting our retinue out fast.

>>15345485
"Wulf, I have total faith in you. You and Daesu are the men for this job, disagreeable though it may be."

Start walking away and then say "OH, and before I forget, I've decided I want you to command the unit of mage-hunters we'll be fielding in the future, so you especially have to come back alive now."

>>15345601
And do what? Retreat to the mountains to wage a guerilla war? Retreat to the west and launch a flotilla of colony ships across the ocean and hope they hit habitable land?

Uurlanth is on a fanatical march of conquest, and they will not stop until all sapient beings come under their rule.

>>15345628
And throwing ourselves blindly into the fire just because isn't going to help the cause, moron. If we can't stop them we can't stop them. We will try everything we can first, though, and preserve as many assets as we can for as long as we can. Including retinue members.

You shake your head "You are entirely capable of failure, as much as I am. And if you do, as bad as that would be fore the Empire, you are to flee. With Janos or seperate, whichever-"

"Togetehr is always the best start to a hast retreat. And two are no harder to hide than one if you are taught properly. I will see that Wulf is capable of hiding _properly_ before we reach our target." Daeseu informs you, causing you to whip around to face the elf, who simply salutes, and inclines his head at you as a response.

You collect yourself, and continue "I will have a small group of Valkerie riders attached to you to serve-"

"No" Janos interrupts you "His false identity will be too poor to afford those. Two dozen lordless knights, and a small army will be the best he is capable of. The rest of the siege force will stem from his convincing other, true up-jumped lords to join him."

You frown "Wouldnt that make it more dangerous, and risk actually conquering the city?"

Janos shakes his head "Either Wulf has learned enough of your charisma for the Lords to willingly and happily follow him to their collective ruin. Or they will see him as a pawn to blame so that they can take Estrok for themselves. Their forces will be similar to his, their scheming will be at best ameturish... and if it comes to blades, Wulfs 'slave'" Janos explains, tilting his head towards DAeseu, both man and elf frown, though they raise no fuss "will put him away and above the rest."

>>15345664
>And throwing ourselves blindly into the fire just because
Where have I said that? Which post, and what words did I use to specifically state or imply in any way that we should throw ourselves into a suicidal gambit that has no chance of success or of producing tangible results?

This operation cannot be allowed to fail because success provides us with a chance at defeating the combined forces of Uurlanth and the Guilds, and failure will result in either the complete collapse of our entire front or with the Duchy siding with Uurlanth and the Guilds.
In order to secure success, I am willing to do whatever is necessary.

>>15345713
I don't really have anything else to say to them, they seem like they have it under control. I would like to go commune with the gods though. Eago and Baashek might be our best bets for help, and seeing how Raynha and Nyetini are feeling about this whole deal can't hurt.

>>15345739
Yeah I can't think of anything else at the moment. I guess tell them if there's something they feel they should get that we haven't given, make it so but I guess it's god talking time.

>>15345713
If the three of them have no further items to discuss with us, then we should check in with the gods and see what we can work out with Eago.

"I would have thought of Daesu more as an... indebted retainer? He doesn't really seem the slave type."

>>15345732
>In order to secure success, I am willing to do whatever is necessary.
Nope.jpg

Some prices are too high to pay.

>>15345850
That's your opinion, and that's fine. But don't use such base tactics as insults when discussing such matters.
And put up a trip like the rest of us.

"Very well. I will leave the three of you to your preparations. If you need my aid for anything else, be sure to ask me." At that you nod, turn, and move to a quiet, unused room in the officers dormitory to commune with the gods.

Before long, you are floating in the dark plane between the divine realms, and even sooner, you are in Eagos realm. The god is once again walking beside you, in ragged travelers cloths, his walking-stick rising and falling at a steady, yet leisurely rate. "You come to speak with me on behalf of my servant Wulf, do you not?"

>>15345915
That is correct. He's embarking on a dangerous journey soon, and I'm trying to do everything in my power to make sure he comes back alive.

>>15345850
Trentz and everything/everyone under his command is naught compared to Degnar.

>>15345915
"Yes. The road I ask him to travel may be the end of him. You do not wish to see him fall to harm, and neither do I. I also do not wish to see him fail in his mission either, for you know what would happen if that comes to pass."

>>15345912
You're clearly not playing "Justinian" or paying attention at all to how the character has developed if you actually think that victory at any price is a viable mode of thought for him.

>>15345850
Also, you have only shown your disagreement with my position on the one point of what lengths I am willing to go to ensure the success of the mission, and thereby secure the future of Degnar.

You have yet to answer my other question, of where I implied that I would be willing to throw lives away on a meaningless gesture.
Unless, of course, you were unable to find such words. If that is the case, then I request that you admit as such. If not, then please quote the specific posts and lines.

>>15345979
Nope, and your implied implications that we shouldn't tell Wulf to escape if things turn horribad are laughable.

>>15345915
"I have. This mission I'm sending him on... I know no matter who among my staff I sent would get this job done, so I chose the two most likely to survive.

Wulf is about to walk a strange road, one I wish sorely I could walk in his stead. All I ask is that you watch over him in this, and when his mission's over, he comes back to me in a timely manner."

yup. it's /tg/

>>15345956
So you claim to know the character better than I do.
And given the position that you are defending, you believe that Justinian would sacrifice the war, and Degnar (given most recent in-setting military projections) for the life of Wulf and Daeseu.
Or are you saying that going into debt with any god willing to grant us this victory and the safe return of Wulf, is too high a price to pay?
And you assume that I would rather have Wulf die in accomplishing his mission, rather than cutting a deal with whatever gods could assure both his safe return and the success of the mission. Why would I stop at asking the gods for divine aid in making the mission succeed, when I said that I am willing to do whatever is necessary?

>>15346071
For someone who supposedly takes offense at strawman arguments you sure like to employ them.

>>15346071
>>15346092
Alright folks, let's just calm down here. I'm sure Wulf is smart enough to do what he has to do to get this mission done. I think no matter what we say, he'd likely get this mission done despite the cost and it's something we can't entirely control anyways. Let's just work on getting him some divine support.

>>15345915
Nothing to add to what has been said.

>>15346013
Really, you perceived my posts as implying that we shouldn't tell Wulf to escape, rather than reinforcing to him that this plan needs to succeed?
If the plan failed but he's still alive, of course he should escape. His death would be meaningless since the plan has already failed.
Also, the plan WAS for him to escape once the battle was joined between our Degnarian forces and the Uurlanthi mercenaries.

Why would I have Wulf waste his life in a foolish and empty gesture that would not further the goal of securing the future of Degnar?

Nothing to add at the moment.

>>15346169
"Now that is a promise I can make easily. I'll make sure to bring spare blankets and provisions for such an occasion."

Also, guys, do you think it's time we equipped Daesu with the ghost strike dagger for this mission?

You nod "Yes, he is about to go on a mission that could very well be the end of him. I would very much like for him to enjoy your protection, and be able to return to my maniple in a timely manner."

The old god raises an eyebrow at you "The... agreement, you are set on working with myself and those like me on, is a strange thing. If I were to ask you to cease defending Degnar, how would you respond?"

You stop, and turn to look at the god "I would laugh in your face. I am a servant of Degnar, and my service is to protect the Empire."

The god stops, turns to face you, and replies "And I am the god of travel. Yet you ask me to shorten this mans journey." At that he begins walking again, though you lag behind him a step and a half, hiding your embarrassment "I do not wish his journey to end any more than you, however."

Finally, you finish collecting yourself, and stride ahead to walk beside the god again "Then, what can you do? And what is your price?"

The god chuckles "I can ensure that he knows when danger is on his path, and that he always knows which will lead him home with the most certainty, as well as the swiftest. How he chooses however... I lack the power to force a mortals actions to those of my choosing. As to your payment, you have already set all but two members of a family on lengthy journeys; so long as you are willing to aid any travelers you may encounter while Wulf is on his journey..."

>>15346213
"Alright, I will do so. Thank you."

And off to see the others.

>>15346213
"That I can do and gladly. Also, it may not be necessary but you have my thanks for assisting Wulf earlier when we were attacked at the temple."

>>15346135
You tell me.

>>15346169
Sounds good. Ask him if it applies to our assassin too or just wulf.

>>15346208
>>15346213
Oh great now TRO is time-traveling...

Helping travelers is an acceptable price in exchange for Eago's aid. We are duty-bound to make exceptions for agents of enemy realms, of course.

Also I second equipping Daeseu with the ghost sword, if he still wants it. We should probably warn him that it's haunted though.

>>15346256
Wait what? When was that blade haunted? Also that might be something we should ask Janos. If he's acting as a slave, you don't often give slaves weapons like that me thinks.

>>15346213
>you have already set all but two members of a family on lengthy journeys

Ouch.

Hmm. Seems innocent enough. And it's already in our character to be helpful to strangers as long as it would not harm Degnar. But it does sound like something that could backfire on us. If the travelers are not Cult members (who we would swiftly nail to a cross on the roadside faster than you can say Jeshua Ben Joseph) I don't see it being an issue.

>>15346268
It's powered by a trapped soul. Neshai said so, and told us it's one of the few exceptions she'll allow for soul-binding.

I say we get an overview of how the gods are feeling at the moment and if there is nothing pressing, we go chat up Raynha.

>>15346268
It's a "ghost sword", literally.

I think we figured it out when Neshai hinted that some of our arcana were already ghost-infested.

>>15346288
Oh yeah, that's when I came up with the idea of ghosts being used for arcana.

>>15346248
>You tell me.
I wouldn't, and I haven't. My first objection was to the emphasis you placed on telling him to escape rather than reinforcing the importance of success.
This was what you posted in >>15345564

Wulf is smart enough to know a lost cause when he sees it.

Are we going to adopt Wulf? I can't help but feel that it would be wonderfully cliche for a god to trick us into blurting out that we see him as a son.

>>15346399
There was discussion of doing so, what with the marriage coming up and all. We could also adopt Lena and Bela and put on our biggest trollface as Wulf and Lena become siblings.

>>15346213
Check to find out if such protections would compromise the chances for success of the plan in favor of keeping Wulf alive.
We might have to strike another deal with another god to balance it out if that's the case.

>>15346399
Should we also arrange a marriage for Wulf and Lena before he goes on his mission as a final hurrah?

>>15346436
Nah, let him do it in his own time.

You make your farewells with Eago, then retreat to the empty plane between the divine realms. Eago is pleased with you, as are Jogra, Garagush, Gaynha and Neshai. Karythria is still annoyed, Lamynus angry, Nyetini curious and welcoming, Danarius still thinks you an amateur, and Baashek his usual shielded self.

With nothing shocking or pressing, you decide to speak with Raynha, as protecting others is her domain. Again you are outside the large wooden building that is the Sunlight Hall. A cool breeze blows, and the surroundings seem to be those of late fall, the trees surrounding the hall a riot of colors. "Justinian, what is it that brings you to the steps of my hall again? Another social call, or do you have business to attend to?"

You smile friendlily before replying "Though you could simply take the knowledge from my mend, you ask... thank you. And yes, this time I come on business, though I also feel that I must thank you for your aid at the end of the siege of Northmont."

The goddess chuckles "Were you not so set on mortals not becoming dependent on the gods, and were not the sort to lead by example, you would already be my greatest paragon, even at that you are one of my greatest sources of power on the mortal plane. And this business you come on?"

You sigh before replying "My protege, Wulf is about to leave my side on a mission that could very well be his death. I have come to see if you would be willing to, help ensure his safe return."
>cont'd

You feel the familiar sense of Raynha taking the details of the mission Wulf is departing on from your head. She frowns, a deep sadness in her eyes "You did well in changing how this would end, however... I cannot offer my protections to one raiding and pillaging, let alone besieging his nations supposed allies to ensure that they enter a war that has already caused so very much pain." She rests a hand on your shoulder "He is dear to you, like all of your command staff, and I truly wish him the best, as we both know that Eago will only ensure that the boy knows what will lead him home, and what will lead him to danger. But I cannot aid him this time. My opposite, or perhaps Baashek would be willing to aid or defend him, but not I, Justinian." for a while there is naught but silence. The goddess' touch giving you strength and courage, even as her words sow your soul with shame at what your nation has sunk to in order to survive, and fear for Wulf.

>>15346499
>>15346505
"I at least needed to make the attempt. Thank you for your honesty."

I say we go to Garagush next. Bringing in a neutral faction to the war, and making this an even bigger conflict, should be something he can get behind.

Let's avoid Baashek for now. Go visit Garagush.

>>15346544
That's highly unfortunate... Was kind of assuming she would go for it and now I'm more worried. Time to go see Garagush.

>>15346505
>we both know that Eago will only ensure that the boy knows what will lead him home, and what will lead him to danger.
Implied by Pax in the IRC, that this hints to what Eago's priorities are: protecting Wulf, even at the cost of the success of the mission.

We need to see if we can get something to ensure the success of the operation from the other gods.

>>15346505
"That meeting with my superior was the only time I have ever felt such shame as a son of Degnar, so I understand your position. I hope to never have to give another order like this."

>>15346586
>>15346544
seconding we say these.

>Eago will keep Wulf alive, but thats about it, and only if Wulf isnt a dumbass in the decisions he makes.

You shrug "I had to try on Wulfs behalf... and this is the only time in my life that I have ever felt shame at being a son of Degnar."

Raynha nods, "I have always preferred Degnar to Uurlanth. As despicable as it is, this act is only a small weight on the larger scale." At that, you both feel the conversation over. The goddess nods, and you allow yourself to retreat to the plane between realms, immediately moving on to Garagush' realm.

Much as last time it takes a while before the great figure approaches from the nearby battlefield. "Ahh, Justinian. Come for another spar? Or do you have some boon to ask?"

You chuckle "I should see to business before play, so I will abstain from answering on your offer until our business is complete." the god, massive even when he is restricting his size to that of a mortal as he is now, nods. "My man, Wulf, is soon to depart on what is assumed by most to be a suicide mission. I came to bargain for his protection and success."

The god rubs his chin through his thick, full beard "What do you have to offer in return for this aid and protection?"

"He will be raiding the countryside of a neutral realm under a false flag, drawing that realm into war on my realm's side."

>>15346757
"what price would be... appropriate?"

>>15346757
"Wulf and Daesu's success would make this war bigger, by bringing the Duchy in. But, if you would like something specific, all you have to do is name it."

>>15346757
"The dedication of a training unit for the...blacker side, of military operations, and continued support in the expansion and deployment of Old Orc tactics, and their return to this world.
"I also offer the formal dedication of my next two victories to you."

Of course, this depends on what other people are willing to offer.
And to be clear, while this is a boon for protecting Wulf it's more importantly to ensure the success of the mission; Eago is already protecting Wulf.

>>15346757
If this succeeds, the Duchy will march to war. What is more, they would do so on our behalf, and thus even the odds against Uurlanth and the Guild making a more even fight.

>>15346757
"I have recently purchased the temple of the ten, which leaves me with the option of purchasing other temples now. I shall put the purchasing of some of your former temples in Dragonsreach on the top of my list when I can. Furthermore, I believe I know someone who may give you more of a challenge in swordsmanship than I can and I will work to convince him to speak to you.

As well, although it's not so much an offer but success means you will see the Duchy join Degnar against the Uurlanth and the Guild in a war that will surely prove to be interesting for you. As a side note, my man Wulf has asked me to join the Loukys hunters that I've been organizing. Losing him will severely hurt our chances to deal with the Loukys before they've regained their former strength."

>>15346872
Seconding Maximus' outline of what Garagush gets simply by virtue of the plan succeeding.
If he wants more than that, then we can get into what other things he will accept as payment.

You smile "This is a mission I think that you will very much like the outcome of, and the execution. It will begin with raiding, and a siege to draw our foes attention, and make it seem that they are assaulting the Duchy. At the end of it, should it succeed, the Dwemer Duchy will fight alongside Degnar, creating a war engulfing all the nations of the world, evenly matched, and bent on the destruction of their opponents." you feel truly sick inside as the implications of that strike home.

Garagush smiles, and growls out "That is a plan I can support. And you want me to lend strength to your mans arm, and logic to his tactics?" You nod "And the war, it will certainly draw more followers to me."

You smile, and deliver the killing blow "Followers, encouraged by the recently restored temples to you, of course. Temples I would have no qualms with restoring were my man successful. Not that Wulf is weak, or without courage..."

Again the god laughs, and finally probes your mind, before laughing again as full realisation of the plan dawns on him "You simply wish for his feign to go off without being discovered. Risky, but with the result, I very much like this plan. Now, as to that spar, I would enjoy learning how much you have improved since we last spoke. Your new armor speaks of a promotion, one no doubt well earned." the god notes, nodding at your armored form.

rolled 6 = 6

>>15347001
Combat roll.

"Well bargained and done."

>>15347030

It's.... it's.... beautiful.

>>15347030
... I think that's a 1 once you factor in our bonuses. o_O

>>15347048
Just fill in the blank.

You grin, and draw your sword, eagerly lunging forward as the god, just over a head taller than the larges man you have ever met, draws his own weapon, a greatsword, this time. The blades clash together, ringing out loudly across the abandoned blood-soaked plain, clearly once host to a great battle. Not hesitating you roll to the side, and strike again, though the god, roaring in surprised joy is able to block this blow as well. You sweep your leg through Garagush' legs, tripping the god, though he is still able to block the follow up blow, and with his own well aimed kick, which you catch on your shield, buy enough time to rise again.

You are careful to never be fully on the defensive. Always utilizing the tactics dictated in the stance of the Wolf to keep at least at even. Never thinking, always striking with your blade, and blocking with shield, you duel the god. Finally, he breaks off the exchange with a mighty stomp of his foot, and a bellowing roar. Then he laughs "You truly have improved. I wont have to hold back nearly as much as I was last time for this to be an amusing fight. Though, I wonder if you know more than one of the Stances..." he wipes the few beads of sweat from his forehead, as you attempt to dry the sweat from your own face.

rolled 9 = 9

ROLLING LIKE THE FIST OF THE NORTH STAR

>>15347133
If we do, take that stance as well, if not
"Not everyone has as many years to perfect them. Though I wonder, all these years, maybe you thought up a new stance."
Resist the mocking, and probably add a compliment on his fighting style

>>15347160
>9 - 5 = 4
We are gonna fuck up the God of War.
I don't know if this is good or bad, only awesome.

>>15347182
didn't we have more bonuses than just that -5?

You smile, before panting out "I haven't had the time, but I feel this may be better for my skill with the blade than any amount of drilling with my companions." The god of war nods, before rushing forwards, his eyes ablaze with joy and aggression. You catch his blade on your own, the force of it pushing you back feet as he attempts to complete the swing. Moments before your arm can take no more, you shift like water, ducking and sidestepping as the blade completes the arc it had initially been set on, cleaving air with a wicked howl. You strike, but the god catches your blow on his black gauntlet, raised to catch your blow in the blink of an eye. Unperturbed you draw back and strike again, and again. A glorious song of steel filling the air, punctuated by the joyous laughter of the god you face. You can tell now that he is still holding back much of his power. Dueling with Collin at his best does not compare to this. You swiftly push the distraction from your mind, and catch a powerful strike from the gods blade on your shield. The impact of it hurls you back, but you somehow manage to turn in the air, and land on your feet. You rush ahead, a wordless battle-cry on your lips, holding back nothing as you strike at the god of war again and again, until, eventually, your blades lock,his face inches from your own as you both press your blades forwards.

>>15347227
Garagush is using a greatsword that has a longer reach than ours, so we don't get the -20 Wolf Stance modifier.

rolled 77 = 77

HERE WE GO

DIVINE MOJO

rolled 66 = 66

FFFFFFFFFFFFFFUUUUUUUUUUU

rolled 63 = 63

>>15347321
Botch time? I think it might be botch time.

rolled 68 = 68

We Made The God Of War Break A Sweat!

>>15347321
>>15347331
>>15347348
>>15347368

And so failed the strength of man against the might of the divine.

rolled 90 = 90

>>15347368
>>15347348
>>15347331
>>15347321
>no roll below a 60
Baashek must be behind this bullshit!

rolled 94 = 94

Let's see what I would have rolled.
>implying that an online dice roller works that way

The look in Garagush eyes' begins to shift before you, more control being shed, ever closer to the depths of madness and hatred that the most blood-broken of soldiers fall into, and deeper yet. He roars, and pushes harder still. Again you fly cbakc, impacting against a great steel tower shield lodged into the ground. You roll to your right as the god comes down with a massively pwerful strike, having closed the massive gap between where you were and where he had been in a single massive leap. You are barely able to stand in enough time to have your shield shattered as you move to block. The strike spins you around, and a swift kick sends you to the ground. You twist to your back, and raise your sword in time to have it smashed away by another blow.

Refusing to give in, you put every last ounce of strength into leaping up, and attempting to tackle the god. He responds with a swift backhanded blow, his gauntleted hand smashing your face and again sending you to the ground. You attempt to rise again, but a kick to the side makes it all so very... blurry.

-----CQ-----

When you awaken, you see a blood-stained gauntleted hand in your face, open and inviting. You do not know what is more terrifying as you accept the gods outstretched hand, the bloodlust in his eyes you saw just before you were beaten, so deep, even when he was still controlling himself. Or the perfectly normally, friendly and accepting demeanor the god now wears, helping you as a friend, and with respect after a hard fought round of sparring. "You truly are one of the paragons of your nation in this new age." he compliments you as you move to wipe the sweat from your brow. "However, you have much to learn, and, more business with the other gods I suspect. Though you are likely too tiered to bounce to and from their realms in a timely manner of your own violation now. Would you like me to send you to the next you plan to meet with?"

rolled 19 = 19

Time for some Nyetini
Maybe another soak in pool to relax our bruised essence.

>>15347427
We currently have increased safety for Wulf, and increased chance of success for the operation. I don't think we need to risk things further by going to Baashek with this, at least, not right now. Right now he might be more likely to ally with Uurlanth than with Degnar.

We still needed to speak with Nyetini about Vi and what we should do with her.

Let's go to see Nyetini next. I'd like to ask her what we should do about Vi.

You force a chuckle as your nerves ease themselves "I have business with Nyetini, if you would."

Garagush chuckles, a hint of bitterness in it, though his voice betrays more irony than hurt when he replies "The succor of a woman over a cup of ale or beer every time. Though, I have heard that Danarius' brews have improved much since we last drank together." you do not add, though you so stoke your chin thoughtfully. Again, the god of war sighs, and in the blink of an eye, you are gone from his realm.

-----CQ-----

The forest glade that is Nyetinis realm is as verdant and lush as ever, and its sole inhabitant as stunning, and tortuously close to nude as you remember her from your last visit. She giggles "Ah, Justinian. I have missed you since your last visit." you fight back the warmth rising to your face. You do have actual work to see to before you can truly rest. "Did you come to rest and visit, or do you want to talk about something first?"

The goddess of love pouts deeply when you sit on a thick, low treebranch, instead of moving immediately to join her in the crisp, clean pool she is lounging in. "I do need your council on Vi, before I can let you distract me too greatly." you reply, glad that she has yet to delve into your mind, you will need to surprise her if you are to gain any ground in this flirtatious battle of wits you have been in with the goddess.

"And what advice would that be?" she playfully coos, leaning back a little lower in the pool.

"I am at a loss of what to do with her. I feel responsible for her. I just... I'm not sure forcing her into the life of the maniple is what she needs. I've been considering all sorts of things. A healer maybe. I had a stray thought that she could become a singer with that unique voice of hers. I was wanting to know your opinion on the matter."

rolled 11 = 11

We could also allow her to probe our mind, to catch her up on everything happening.

Also, press that that one thing with her and the emperor's throne was just a dream.

>>15347679
Sounds good to me. I've got nothing to add.
Last post from me for the night.

You sigh, befroe replying "I seem to be at a loss for what to do with her. The life of a soldier is clearly not for her, yet I cannot, in good conscience, allow one as... innocent, as her to the world without aid and protection. And if she were to leave my maniple..."

Nyetini gigles "You think that I would abandon someone I made, someone created for the reasons she was? As she is, not as she was?"

You pause "You would take her as a priestess?" Nyetini nods, running her hand idly through the water.

"Will you join me now, I know how tired you are..." the goddess asks, your mind is engulfed in a warm, soft sensation for a second, as the goddess enters it to learn what you have been doing of late.

>>15347748
If we're going to troll her with crazy dreams, go with one about the wives helping us "converse" with her.

>>15347801
rollan for trollan

rolled 20 = 20

>>15347870
sorry, captcha....

>>15347870
i already rolled an 11 for trolling.

"A little dip sounds wonderful. I think I've worked hard enough for the last few days."

>>15347896

We only went 2 rounds with the war god. At best 2.5

You finally relent, grinning devilishly as you join the goddess in the springfed pool "Those, ahh, dreams, you may have found..."

The goddess grins impishly "But they already do that with each other, why dont you just wake them?" she asks, immediately throwing you off, as you remember the last time your wives had unknowingly acted out one of your more, lust-filled dreams. Laelith and Jayne had been quite the match before you intervened.

You shake your head to clear it "No, the ones that... you were in. The Dragonbone throne, you, my wives..."

She laughs and sloshes over next to you, her impossibly smooth skin rubbing up against yours as she positions herself so as to still be comfortable as you relax in the water, though her presence is making it difficult, as you have to concentrate to keep control of yourself "Oh, but you know that it would be FAAAR better than in any dreams you could possibly have. And soon, I wont need to use your wives bodies to 'commune' with you. Though it may be a fun experience." her voice silky smooth and lusty as she teases you, her hand brushing your face, and turning it to face hers.

Control, you have to keep your body under control. The waters are quite soothing however, and you think that it is helping to keep anything, unseemly from rising "I'm certain they would enjoy that as much as we would." you reply, too distracted to come up with anything better.
>cont'd

The goddess smiles, and plants a light kiss on your lips, pulling back before you can pull her in deeper. her scent, her taste, the pool... it is far too much to bear, and you feel yourself slip into the most restful trance you have ever been in, though you never do fall asleep. It almost is enough to break the trance when the lithe goddess removes herself from your lap, hand trailing along your skin as she leaves the pool. You can see how slowly the vines are moving to protect her modesty after she slips from the water. But so deep is the restive state your mind is in, that you cannot bring yourself to get a better look at the goddess in her full glory.

>well we seem to be dying down, so I'll grudgingly call it here. We were one encounter away from ending the downtime too.
>I'll be back thursday at 9pm server time
>someone archive please
>If you have any setting/CQ questions just email me at paxcomquest@yahoo.com

When, oh, when will we get a writefag to make us CQ fapfiction?

Archiving is done. Don't forget to vote!