Whoo! He has returned!

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Events Summary:

You stopped the plague and saved Abigail from wrongful imprisonment, but the town was attacked by an invading force from Kan-Abar. After a long, difficult battle, you managed to make enough of a difference to save the majority of the town - though barely.

The retreating flotilla of Jacob's Field has reached Evinbrook, the capital of Kelvere. You've promised Sir Flint to help him remove a curse on his soul - some sort of dark, parasitic creature. You've convinced him to join you in tracking down Adavan and Abigail, the lich being a specialist in spirit magic.

You met with the ambitious and brilliant Duke Vellik - a man with aims to reshape the political landscape of the world. He's asked for your allegiance, in return for a home and protection for yourself and your friends. You asked for some time to think about the offer.

You explored Evinbrook's castle and read a few books in the library, and now, you're soon to meet with Duke Vellik for dinner and a game of stones.

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Ability Tree

GREEN abilities have been unlocked and learned.

BLUE abilties are unlocked, but are not yet purchased.

RED abilities are revealed, but locked due to prerequisites.

UNDERLINED abilities are active-use, as opposed to passive.

Unlocked Ability Descriptions Located in the following Pastebin link:

http://pastebin.com/7fSeQRW6

Books the Main Character has read can be found here: (in-progress)

http://pastebin.com/i0zjDPpS

>shadow quest on the weekend
God be praised!

>>24366630
lets see if Flint is up and ask him some questions about what we saw, also if he knows how to play stones

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Current Statistics:

HP: 5/21
Mana: 2/4
EXP: 0
Humanity: 16
Temerity: 10

Basic Battle Options to keep in mind during fights (it would get tedious to list all of them every time):

-Physical Attack
-Shadow Attack (requires light source!)
-Magic Attack
-Defend
-Dodge and Counter
-specific ability (Battle-specific abilities activate same-turn; others burn a turn to activate)
-Flee (dodge check if enemy attacks)

Inventory:

Shadow Sword Shard
Spirit Sword
Fancy Sun-Moon Key

Current Location:

Kelvere - Evinbrook

>>24366615
Did someone say SHADOW QUEST?!?

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Yeah!

>>24366656

Shorter thread tonight, though, sorry. Will be more tomorrow!

>LAST TIME ON DAYS OF OUR LIVES

You just finished reading in the library and returned to your suite.

The room is plush and ornate. Flint is in the next room over.

What do you do?

>See if Flint's awake, ask him somthing
>hang out until you're summoned by Lord Vellik
>something else

>>24366725
Check Flint.

>>24366725
Enjoy the cushy suite. I don't think we've ever had a bed before.

>>24366725
Check to see if Flint is awake.

>>24366725
this>>24366662

shouldn't we look up how to actually play this game we've been invited to?

>>24366725

You bob your way over to Flint's room and open the door. It's unlocked. You enter...

...but Flint is gone.

Well, it's been several hours. He probably wanted to get his armor tended to or something...

You hear a sharp rap on the door.

"Pardon, m'lord...Shadow. Dinner is served, if it is your pleasure."

What do you do?

>blow off the Duke and look for Flint
>Black Shadow needs food badly.
>something else

>>24366725


chill and relax, no need to go waking up Flint you assholes

>Black Shadow needs food badly.
5 hp is making me very nervous

>>24366814
Black boy need food.

>>24366814

Black shadow needs food badly

Dinner time hope our health can recover.

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>something I made for visual ease

>>24366814
Om nom nom. The food, that is, not the waiter.

>>24366814

because we don't really need the food I say we look for Flint

>>24366814
we need food, but spread magic detect and try to find his Light

>>24366814
Well, let's see the man. We cannot keep an eye on Flint forever...

>if this doesn't work we should ask if there are any bandits or thieves around he wouldn't mind disapearing.

>>24366842


this is me nevermind forgot we only had 5hp


eat all the food

>>24366814
Dinner with the Duke sounds more interesting than spying on Flint.

>>24366814
can we magic detect to try and find hi?> he could just be in the dining hall

on second thought, >>24366852. Keep magic sensing while we go through the halls to find him.

>>24366840
This table is confusing me, is shadow beating light or is light beating shadow? Are they neutral and beat each other equally?

>>24366814

What do we know in the way of table manners?

>>24366852
really, lets just see if we can sense him
>he's in the bathroom

Briefly concerned for Flint's whereabouts, you focus your senses...

...his distinctive flare of white Light prods your mind. It seems he's out on the grounds below the castle, in the town...hmm.

You assume use mimic to assume your more humanoid form before opening the door with your shadowy 'hand'. The primly-dressed manservant is there again - apparently he's been assigned to you.

He guides you down the hall toward Duke Vellik's side of the quarters.

What do you do?

>ask your guide a question (write-in, the one that gets a landslide of votes [failing that, the one I like best] gets chosen)
>remain silent

>>24366936
they are opposites. neither really 'beats' the other

>>24366957
>ask your guide a question (write-in, the one that gets a landslide of votes [failing that, the one I like best] gets chosen)

"How does Duke Vellik treat you?"

>>24366936

They're both super-effective against the other. Though, powerful creatures of either element will have shored up that weakness somewhat.

>>24366966
Guess I'm to used to the pokemon system. Thank you.

>>24366957

sit in his shadow and see if he notices...

>>24366957
Ask him what the punishments are in the city for various infringements. Or ask them if there is a mage's guild here, and if they are policed regularly or watch over themselves.

>>24366957

"so how many times have you talked with a sentient shadow?"

>>24366999
*too

>>24366814
Ask if he likes working for the Duke? How is life in the castle? Getting information.

>>24366615
Pastebin Compiler Guy here!
All done with 1-9, and i'll keep it updated as the quest progresses.
http://pastebin.com/6RzLX9Yp

>>24366957
<So, since it seems we're gonna be best buddies now shouldn't I know how the Duke treats my buddy?>
>caption was CONSUME

>>24367014
I'll second this because it relates to how he'd handle Abigail/Avadoodieheads presence.

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>>24367018

Bitchin'.

>>24367019
>HA
also lets not forget to ask how he himself feels about being assigned to a Shadow

>>24367014
I like the Mage's guild one. Adavan might appreciate being out in a more cosmopolitan area.

>>24366957
Ask him if he's ever seen a creature like us before.

Are their elements other than spirit that are generally frowned upon? What does a spirit elemental look like?

>>24366840
Lets see....fire...earth...wind...water.....Shadow Master I think you are missing one for I see no Heart element.

>>24367048
Glad I could be of help :)
If anyone reads through it and notices any mistakes, just mention it in one of the threads and i'll make the change as soon as possible.

>>24367103
That was just terrible, cap'tn...

>>24367090
This is a question for the quest master, not the butler.

>>24367129
Why thank you, I try.

>>24367154
You're welcome!

<I have a question.>

The manservant stutters a step, but nods. "Of course, m'lord."

<How are mages treated here? Do they have an important presence?>

The manservant nods. "Of course. The duke is an accomplished mage himself...nothing on the order of Li Fang, but certainly formidable by any stretch."

<Who's Li Fang?>

"Ah. That would be the ruler of Archon. He's one of the most powerful mages in the world - and a lich, if the rumors are true. Though, considering how long he's been alive, seems unlikely elsewise..." The servant takes a breath. "But to your original question. The duke treats his mages very well, and accepts all who live and work for his people in benevolence as citizens of Kelvere. Though...even he hesitates to accept Shadow magic, with the Black Lady's forces constantly antagonizing the Ring City." The manservant purses his lips. "Though it seems he's decided on a change of policy."

He bows out in front of a door, and opens it for you. You walk in.

You're in a small dining chamber. A bright chandelier illuminates a wide table that is absolutely bursting with food enough to feed half of Jacob's Field. Duke Vellik leans casually at one end, his back to the window displaying a rather magnificent sunset. "Wasn't sure how hungry you'd be. Will this suffice?"

What do you do?

>eat
>EAT
>EAT MORE
>greet the Duke
>something else

>>24367154
I just realized you made the name change from last thread. You are an amazing person.

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>>24367103
>heart
>not liver
Livermancer master race.

>>24367176
Greet the duke first, then EAT.

>>24367176
Ask if anything has been done to help feed the survivors from Jacob's Field. If so, eat as much as we want, if not, ask if a majority of the food can be delivered to them.

>>24367176
>greet the Duke
>Pardon yourself
>CONSUME

>>24367220
I see you are following both Tavern Quest and Shadow Quest Barman Andrews?
Tavern Quest is moving quite slowly...

>>24367227
OOH, nice!

>>24367235
yes

>>24367227

This seems out of character, but I'll bend if it gets the majority vote.

>>24367176
Greet the duke, hope to god there's no such thing as time bomb shadow elemental destroying poisons, and eat.

But eat... dignified? Don't swarm the entire table in 1/4 second anyways.

>>24367176
Greet the Duke, sit down, ask him to pardon us for a moment and prepare to CONSUME the food until we are fully healed.
>>24367179
Well I "did" say it was my middle name.

>>24367235
sure, but lets ask him about Flint and see how he reacts

>>24367227
That's bad and you should feel bad.

Those villagers are lucky they aren't on the menu themselves.

>>24367262
True. I'll change it to "Greet the Duke, ask if Flint will be joining us"

>>24367250
Yes, I admit it. I have a thing for quest threads, as I cannot find any normal tabletop games around my area...

>>24367227
This seems like a softie thing to do. I wanna see how the Duke reacts to it. Seconding.

>>24367235

seconded

>>24367262
I can dig greeting the duke first, followed by >>24367227, then eating.

>>24367176
Greet the Duke, but as soon as it would be polite to do so, feast upon the food.

At some point, ask if Flint was invited to join us.

>>24367292
seconding

>>24367187
>Livermancer
you misspelled Alcoholmancer there...

>>24367285
This. We've already done too much for the people of Jacob's Field.

Now's the time for a nice meal, not philanthropy.

>>24367373
B-but... my Humanities!

>>24367373
BEING A GOOD PERSON IS A GOOD THING!

>>24367176

<Greetings, your excellency. I appreciate the table...I'm quite hungry. Starving, in fact.>

"Oh, don't mind me." The duke stabs his finger through the air. "Have at it!"

You dive into the food and CONSUME it. Chicken, beef, and pork dissolve into you, along with a balanced diet of vegetables and occasional fruit. You find it rather delicious.

When you withdraw, the plates are shining clean. You feel extremely satisfied.

>HP: 21/21

"Well," the duke says. "That's not something you see every day. You do seem to have perked up slightly, if I may say so." He thumps the table near him. "Come, sit! Stones!" He raises a finger.

A shock of yellow lightning crackles on the table to your left. A metallic board with metal pieces flies over and arranges itself on the table. It's a long flat piece with several large indents. The pieces are all uniform stones sitting in the indents, arranged in a uniform pattern. A longer indentation perpendicular to the others marks either end of the board.

<I'm afraid I haven't played before,> you say.

"Simple. Each turn, you can move one of the eight pools. See how one has four stones, while another has but three?"

<Yes.>

"You draw all the stones from your chosen pool. For each pool you pass, you deposit a stone. When you pass your goal-pool-" He indicates the too longer indents at either end. "-you deposit one, there, earning a point. But if you pass your opponent's pool, you skip it. The player with the most stones in their goal-pool when all the stones have been deposited is the victor."

<I see.>

"Don't worry, practice makes perfect. I'll go easy on you..."

Roll 1d100 for your first few moves.

Do you have any questions for the duke as you play?

>running conversation mode

Rolled 65

>>24367475
Rollin

>>24367441
But we're not a person, we're a goddamn shadow monster who eats people on a regular basis.

Not that we should be chaotic evil but I see no need to go out of our way to be nice.

Rolled 92

>>24367475
not sure about questions. i will default to other players

Rolled 23

>>24367475
tell me about your city. i have see so little of the world

>>24367475
Ah, Mancala, fun game.

Ask him about the city, what it's like here, the people of it, the politics of the region, the state of the populace.

>>24367475
<So Duke, I've come to learn a few things since we last met. Tell me, why would someone in your position wish to go against the order in place?>

>>24367475
>Conversation

I took a look at a few parts of your castle while Sir Flint was resting. I do like what accounts for justice within your city. If I may make a suggestion though, I think that you may need to hire someone for some spring cleaning within. A man named Howard comes to mind...

Rolled 79

>>24367475
<Your honest opinion, what do you stand to gain by siding with Shadow? Your people seem open and understanding, but what of you?>

>>24367528

<Tell me about Evinbrook.>

"Originally a garrison under Rajin, before the Elementomachy," the duke says. "I still carry that old bloodline."

As you each pick and move the stones, they clink and clatter across the board. It's a simple game, but it feels as though thinking very far ahead is difficult - there's too many moves for each player.

"The castle was built a hundred years ago, as an offensive base against Archon - that was before Arland was established, and Archon was a much larger threat to the empire. The borders have grown far from here since then, but it remained an important trade hub for the whole of the country, and now, its capital."

Rolled 58

>>24367475
<Will Sir Flint not be joining us?> Check if he knows where he is, will he lie
<what would you ask of us in this war?>
<Why should I trust YOU?>

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>>24367546
>Mancala

>>24367574
>>24367631
these, whats this guy after

>>24367618
"Speaking of Arland, what do you make of them? Would you say that Sir Flint is a good representative of his people, or would I find a less warm welcome in his lands than I have in yours?"

<Will Sir Flint be joining us?>

"He was already here, in fact," the duke said. "Dropped in for a quick bite and then was off to see to the latest refugees..." The duke sighs. "I understand his concerns. Being concerned is important. But if you're too concerned, you'll just end up killing yourself trying to please everyone. A good man, though. None other I'd pick to restore a knighthood to its former glory. Better than that brother of his by a far sight." Vellik grins. "I can just imagine the look on Gerald's face when he sees his brother has been consorting with Duke Vellik."

More clattering. After a few minutes of play, the duke is winning, 15-12.

>more rolls are required

<Tell me honestly," you ask. <What do you stand to gain by siding with me? From what I understand, the Black Lady is the prevailing force of shadow in the world.>

"And so much to gain by stealing her power away from her," Vellik replies. "Why should she have a monopoly on the shadow? I'd co-opt the strength she uses to keep the angels at bay and use it for myself. I'll beat her and them at their own game, and make a place...a new place, Shadow. Where people don't give a damn about this element or that type of magic. That's my goal." He looks up from the game and looks at you. "Do you understand what it means to be a ruler? To weigh 50 lives against 5,000 and make the call that 50 must die so 5,000 can win? Because that is what it means to rule. It means you must put a price on life.

"I seek a world in which my successors no longer have to make those choices. In the meantime...if I have to break a few eggs for my omelet, so be it."

Rolled 26

>>24367753

Rolled 84

>>24367753
More rolls you say?

Rolled 52

>>24367753

Rolled 45

>>24367753

Rolled 9

>>24367753
I gotta say, I'm really starting to like this Duke.

Rolled 19

>>24367753

>>24367745

<Concerning Arland...what do you make of them? Would you say that Sir Flint is a good representative of his people, or would I find a less warm welcome in his lands than I have in yours?>

"Ah, Arland. A glorious bastion of wind and light. Defenders of the empire, thorn of Archon, and annoyance of Kelvere and Felnoir." The duke looks at you. "Arland is a puppet state of the empire. Sir Flint's father was a just man, and did much to reduce conflict in the world. But Gerald, the de factor ruler, and Flint's eldest brother, is not as he was."

Rolled 75

>>24367791
same

>>24367753
providing my late roll

Rolled 37

>>24367753
noble goal. i would think the eggs would feel different, but i have no place to judge. i eat people. so explain to me your enemies. those who would stop your goal

Rolled 72

>>24367807
<I understand what you have in this fight, but what of me and mine? Abigail, Flint, Adavan, people of Jacobs field if you want>

Play has gone on for about fifteen minutes now. As the number of available stones dwindle, your moves both become slower and more measured. However, the duke has maintained the upper hand.

Score: 24-16

>>24367841
this

>>24367807
<If something were to happen, that either turned me against you or you against me, would you attempt to strike me down?>

>>24367905
I think we already know the answer to that question is yes, considering how we met and negotiated to consider his offer.

Rolled 75

>>24367807

<let us say that all goes well and all factions fold into yours. What then? Will you stay in power and rule over all, or will this Change continue beyond the conflicts of beliefs?>

the hardest part of having power, is letting go of it. It will be that moment that we shall see if the Duke is a champion of good, or has fallen on his quest. Many a good man has succumb to the allure of power, becoming the tyrants they sought to usurp.

>>24367926
yes, but now that he knows we come as no threat, even a boon to his cause would he break us like an egg?

>>24367841

<I understand your goals better...but what purpose would I have in your fight?>

"The king rules the chessboard, but he can only move but 1 space," the duke says. "Pawns are important, but he needs rooks, knights, bishops, a queen. He needs his power-pieces. Pieces such as yourself." The duke meets your gaze squarely. "A powerful fighter to turn the tide of a crucial battle. An assassin to remove a particular obstacle from the field. A being capable of treading where other men fear to go to strengthen Kelvere's hold over magic. That would be the roles I would ask of you."

<Committing myself is one matter, but what of my companions?>

"They are their own people, of course," the duke says. "I've already had more than my fair share of Sir Flint simply by talking to him. Gerald will be having fits once he hears about it. If you have an obligation to the good knight before you can take more formal tasks under my direction, that is perfectly acceptable. I have many resources, and Sir Flint owing me a debt would be...advantageous. As for the girl, my mages will be happy to shelter and educate her."

He pauses, then squints. "The lich is...a more complicated matter. A fellow from the Elementomachy...a fine scalpel of great power. I'd shelter him as well, of course. He'd prove a fine companion for your undertakings, should that be his wish. Though I'd have to keep him a closely-guarded secret. That kind of concentrated knowledge is something many people would wish to use...or destroy."

>>24367992
<What of the people how will they see all this? Am I too be a guarded secret, or a leashed pet at your beck and call?>

>>24367983
Given everything he's said so far, yes. I think that's one of the things we should be most careful with if we get mixed up with him.
If a situation comes along that he could gain much more by sacrificing us or putting us into a bad position then he could do it. This is a normal paranoia to have towards politicians.
At least my DM always makes them skeevy.

Rolled 36

>>24367992
<Hypothetically, what could you offer me? I have many questions of myself and the world.>

>>24367932
<Let us say that all goes well and all factions fold into yours. What then? Will you stay in power and rule over all, or will this change continue beyond the conflicts of beliefs?>

"Of course it will continue," the duke says. "If you have any need for evidence of the fact that men are unable to live in peace without the rule of law and society, well - you need merely look at the world around you. We are divided. We hate subgroups of ourselves. Many of us are wary of elves, for all the difference they have with us, pointed ears and better balance..." He waves a hand vaguely. "Nonsense, all of it. Though, I suppose making friends with orcs will take some doing." He nods. "A great union will bring the end of war - stability through acceptance and tolerance of all those that live by their fellows in peace. Though, I have no wish to rule over such a place - it sounds rather boring. But in any case, I've no delusion that I'll live to see it. But perhaps, if I'm lucky, I shall place its foundation."

>more rolls

Rolled 91

>>24368131
>>24368078
this, we won't be a toy

Rolled 43

>>24368131
rolling.

and remember we agreed to not make a discision about this today

Rolled 40

>>24368131
><Hypothetically, what could you offer me? I have many questions of myself and the world.>

Rolled 82

>>24368131

Rolled 97

>>24368131
Idealistic. Very idealistic.

Rolled 98

>>24368131

<Might I query your knowledge of the history of Jacobs Field? Prior to our departure, something strong in Spirit called to me for help. To free it, four 'keys' are required. If you wish to find further allies to your cause, you may see fit to 'Invest' in my 'quest' to free this being.>

>>24368078

<How will the people see all this? Am I too be a guarded secret, or a leashed pet at your beck and call?>

"For now, a secret." The duke raises an eyebrow. "I'd be a fool to leash you. Much better to give you reasons to follow me and let you accomplish things as you would."

He leans back. "But you wouldn't be secret forever. Why should you be? Secrets are at their most powerful in the moment in which they are revealed." The duke smiles. "How did you feel when I revealed my ambition to you, so suddenly, so dramatically? How did you feel when I stepped from the corner and revealed that I was the true duke, and was merely speaking through a double until then? You felt suitably impressed - otherwise we wouldn't be having this conversation, would we? The revealing of a secret is a stage act that captures the heart of a man and sweeps him up into your hand. Your reveal - it's time will come. And I can guarantee you it will be one of my finest acts." The duke smirks. "Though, strangely enough, it seems the rules of men apply to you, as well. You're rather like us, it seems."

>>24368124

<I have many questions about myself and the world. What could you offer me on that front?>

"Of knowledge, I have plenty." The duke nods thoughtfully. "I will have my best men look into the war of the elements, into the elementals themselves. Surely we can find some reference, some clue that relates to your existence."

You think back to the time when you appeared...a few fleeting images. The strange altar...the elf noblewoman...the shadow dragon...the flash of green light.

Perhaps he might be able to make sense of these clues...

Rolled 66

>>24368281
do you know anything about a dragon of shadow?

>>24368271
>>24368201
>>24368191
>>24368145

>damn

You've managed to turn the tide of the game. The duke furrows his brow and smirks as you bring your score back to even, and even gain a few points on him.

32-35, you

>>24368319
We won't lose without a fight.

Rolled 36

>>24368281
<I will defer to him on final decisions, but what do you think is on Flint?>

Rolled 97

>>24368281
<What do you really think my existence means, honestly?>

>>24368314
Might as well ask about the elf noblewoman as well and the stange altar.

Rolled 1

>>24368455
yeah i was avoiding those because they sound less iconic, and more general. but might as well ask away. maybe give a physical description of the elf noblewoman

Rolled 34

>>24368281
<What do you think you could do for Flint?>
also ask about Rajin (lightning elemental)

>>24368314

<Wars between the elements...the angels losing control of stability. Tell me. What do you really think my existence means?>

The duke raises his palms and shrugs. "I've no idea, Shadow. It could mean any number of things. Tomorrow, the elementals could rise again. You may be a harbinger of chaos. Or, perhaps, you're just a random fluctuation, spawn of a mana pool in some dark place in the world, lucky enough to have a will of your own...I doubt anyone could truly answer that with perfect certainty."

<An odd question.>

"Try me," the duke says.

<Do you know anything of a dragon of shadow?>

"...you likely refer to Do'Vak, the Terrible."

<...what can you tell me about him?>

"A thing that lived in the caverns under the Frozen Hand, far to the north, where the sea turns to ice," the duke says. "A pet of the Black Lady. The elves and the empire are technically involved their own unsettled conflict, but even they pull aside to point their swords at the vampires. I'd heard rumors he was slain by Queen Kalladar, though at great personal cost...I suspect she's either invalid or dead, though the elves won't tell, of course." He looks at you. "Do you know something of the matter?"

Rolled 74

>>24368522
<It depends, I only share secrets with friends>

>>24368489
>>24368510

As the number of stones dwindles down, the duke's play becomes sharp as a knife. You quickly lose ground...

...you realize there aren't enough stones left to make a comeback.

<I'm afraid I must yield.>

"So it is."

You've lost to the duke, but he seems pleasantly surprised by your performance.

Final score: 42-37

>>24368489
I guess we lost.

>>24368522

<a fleeting image, a grain of sand in things long forgotten...>

>>24368522

What is your response?

>give the duke the full details of what you know of your origin
>give only a few details (specify)
>don't reveal anything; change the subject to Flint's current condition

>>24368586
>We were at five hitpoints when we met the duke
>We lost the game of Stones by five

>>24368522
AHHHH SHIT.

<Of course, I witnessed his demise though it was strange...he acted like he knew me...>

I think we should be straight up and reveal one secret of our own.

>>24368641

I'll use that line to change the subject if you so choose.

Rolled 15

>>24368666
i like this. but do not elaborate, saying that we have much to think through on this

>>24368641

I like it

seconded

Rolled 98

>>24368668
yes this, lets ask about flint's snake
>lets keep the dragon secret for now

>>24368700
>>24368688
>>24368641

3 for no reveal

>>24368666
>>24368687

2 for reveal single detail
...of which the duke would inevitably ask more

Rolled 69

>>24368768
switch me>>24368687
to not reveal

>>24368768

no reveal

a shadow has his secrets

>>24368768
welp, time for a smooth transition

>>24368768
One more for no reveal.

Lets play his game of secrets.

<...a fleeting image. A grain of sand in things long forgotten.>

The duke, for the first time, has no immediate reply.

<What do you know about Flint's condition?>

"What makes you think I know anything?"

<...you implied you did, earlier.>

"Now, now," the duke says. He smiles. "I'll trade secrets for secrets, but nothing less."

How do you respond?

>tell him more about your memories in exchange for into about Flint's curse/parasite
>end the conversation. You've always got Adavan, anyway...if you can find him.

>>24368896
A secret for a secret then.

Rolled 37

>>24368896
i wish to get his knowledge. tell him of our first memories. of a dark temple and an altar, an elvin woman and a dragon

>>24368896
<A memory, a dragon of shadow and an elf. Some altar I've never seen but they all seem familiar...>

>>24368896

<what good is a fleeting image to anyone? though if you can provide information on Flints little 'friend', i shall tell you that the dragon did not harm the elven woman...>

>>24368896
Then lets trade.

Would the ability replicate make us the equivalent of ditto?

>>24368896

<...my memory...> You stop, then start again. <I remember an altar. Darkness. Then an elf woman...a shadow dragon that attacked her and...two...three others? I can't remember.> You shake your head. <There was a flash of green light. I remember she was responsible...I felt as though I was on the verge of something, and then when I woke from the spell, I was on the edge of Jacob's field. And my memory is now blocked.>

Vellik frowns deeply. "...this is disturbing information. I know not what to make of it. And I'm like to be very cautious about things I can't understand."

<Can you tell me anything about Flint?>

"Honestly, all I caught was a glimpse when we were speaking. Give me time, and I'll see what I can tell you."

You feel somewhat cheated, but are mollified by his promise to help in the future.

"A good game, Shadow," he says. "We should play again." He glances out the window. The sun has fallen low. "I've matters to attend to. By the way, you don't need to jump around my mages. They've been told I've been working with various familiars lately...and to expect and ignore a shadow such as yourself." He stands. "Feel free to do as you wish until tomorrow. I'll take your answer at midday, or sooner, if you would."

You walk out of the room together. The manservant bows to you, and he an Vellik are about to leave...

What do you do now?

>inquire if you may interrogate the prisoner from Jacob's Field
>ask about the ongoing war effort
>ask about permission to do something else
>sleep/mediate to pass the night

>>24369140

Exactly.

However, people with strong magical detection abilities can tell something is off, or outright tell that you're not really what you appear to be.

>>24369225

And by "strong magical abilities" I mean you're not going to fool a boss-level monster.

>>24369225
So, since we would be ditto, we would get what we replicated abilities, but only be able to use them four times per transform, right?

>>24369208
Ask if we can interrogate the prisoner and if we can look deeper into his dungeon.

>>24369208
>inquire about interrogation

>>24369208
Interrogation, try to see if we can get information.

>>24369273

No, you don't get the powers or abilities of what you replicate, just the appearance. You still have all your own powers, though using them blatantly would give you away.

>>24369208
inquire about prisoner, and what is being done about the refugees

<I have a word or two for the prisoner I captured at Jacob's Field.>

"Oh, that fool?" the duke asks. "I already interrogated him myself."

<And?>

"He's dead," the duke says flatly. "I don't take kindly to men that attack my defenseless villages. I'd planned on sending a force in a few days, but..." He frowns. "They moved faster than I predicted. What happened to Jacob's Field is my fault."

<...honestly, your excellency, you don't seem a man to make that kind of mistake.>

"No? Good." The duke's frown doesn't leave his face. "...I try very hard not to underestimate my opponents. But I was wrong. This time. It won't happen again. Our counter-stroke will be swift and brutal." Vellik looks at you again. "He didn't know much of any importance, but he did tell me one thing - they're unabashedly using demons, summoned from the Nether. Did you see any at Jacob's field?"

<No. Nothing that could be described as such.>

Vellik nods. "Good. Perhaps it's on a limited scale, then. That sort of thing will draw the attention of the angels. And that is something neither you nor I want. A fair night, Shadow."

They walk off.

What do you do now?

>see if you can locate Flint
>go check out the airship!
>look into Vellik's forces. You remember seeing tents out behind the castle when you were exploring...
>go back to the dungeons and investigate the magic under the castle
>see if you can locate Joey (God knows why)
>sleep/mediate through the night
>something else

>>24369528
>go check out the airship!
Because airships are extremely relevant to my interests.

>>24369528
>>see if you can locate Flint
>go back to the dungeons and investigate the magic under the castle

>>24369528
>go back to the dungeons and investigate the magic under the castle

>>24369528

TO THE AIRSHIP!!!
we must study this 'Dynamo' to unlock it's secrets. Maybe they share some kind of link which may allow us to find a shadow one...

>>24369528
Find Joey, I don't think we got that shard back from him. Could intrigue the duke.

Rolled 3

>>24369600
flint had it

>>24369615
Ah. Then find Flint and get the shard.

We're very tied right now.

>>24369685
Then I'll change my airship vote to go check out the magic under the castle.

>>24369685
Flint

>>24369685
airship
It sounds cool!

>>24369685
I hear the dungeons secrets call to me~

You make your way through the castle back to the dungeons.

You're soon at the part you were before - nice rooms, carpeted flooring. A stairwell leading down awaits at the far corner.

You creep down, down...

...the dungeons shift back into cold, wet stone. It smells earthy and dank. Old air, poor ventilation. The torches grow more and more infrequent.

The stairwell ends in a simple storeroom piled with old furniture. There's dust and cobwebs everywhere.

The source of magic picking at your senses is further down, but you're closer than you were. You'd estimate perhaps 1 or 2 stories deeper.

What do you do? It seems you're at some sort of dead end...

>>24369810
Ink and try to look for a crack or hole downward

>>24369810
>>24369840
This and maybe try to find a hidden passage of some kind.

>>24369879

i think we need 'Compress' before we can get that thin...

still thinking that the airship needs exploring before it leaves...

>>24369840
>>24369879

Roll 1d100.

Rolled 71

>>24369924
BAM

Rolled 13

>>24369924

Rolled 85

>>24369924
here goes. sorry i have been rolling low all night

Rolled 47

>>24369924

>>24369924
>>24369810

You move about the room, shifting furniture and brushing aside cobwebs.

Maybe there's a lever for a door? You try moving all the furniture...but nothing.

You flatten yourself to the stone and feel along the seems...

...you stop.

There's a stone that's looser than the others. You pick yourself up and look at it.

You can see it now that you've picked it out. Slightly less dusty than the ones around it - and the grout around it is very thin. This is the way forward, you can feel it.

But you can't wedge yourself around it, and there's no real crack to Ink through...

...maybe it would be better to simply ask the duke as a condition of your alliance?

Then again, maybe you shouldn't give away that you know about this place...who knows what's down there. It could be as simple as a vault, or...something worse.

What do you do?

>give up for now and do something else (specify)
>keep looking. There has to be a way down somewhere...
>other (write-in)

>>24370007

*seams

>>24369810
Got an idea, we're in relative darkness right? Expand our body to encompass the room, grab all the dust and debris and spit it back out into the hallway. Maybe there's hidden markings or mechanisms under all the mess?

>>24370007
lets find Flint/explore town

>>24370007
If the stone is looser than the others why not just pick it up?

>>24370091
Never mind, I reread and saw that we couldn't fit around it.

>>24370091
Or also try pushing it down.

>>24370091
>But you can't wedge yourself around it

>>24370148

You try pushing the stone down.

You grunt and strain, but to no avail.

You glance back at the entrance to the stairs. Getting caught down here is probably not a good idea...

>>24370181
Okay, lets leave this for now and look to the airship. Unless we see someone coming down here that is.

>>24370181
Meh. We can try again some other time.

Let's go have a look at that airship.

>>24370213
>>24370230

Feeling a bit put out, you leave the room. Perhaps you could tail someone down there later...

...you decide to investigate the airship.

The sun has set. The moon isn't out tonight, and it's quite dark. Perfect.

You move toward the airship. Despite the hour, torches keep the area brightly lit, and it's still a hive of activity. You stay in the shadows.

Two men nearby are talking. One is holding a clipboard - and you recognize the second. It's the primly-dressed manservant.

The airship itself is a hulking craft. While the body somewhat resembles a sea-ship, the underside houses a cylindrical engine almost as big as the rest of it. The entire thing is ribbed with bars and plates of a gleaming, turquoise metal. You remember reading that airships have to be reinforced with adamantium to survive the trip through the sky...how strong is that stuff?

You can feel a throbbing pulse of magic from inside the engine. It's the airship's dynamo. Comparing it to the magic under the castle is like comparing a sun to a candle.

What do you do?

>listen in on the conversation
>investigate the airship's cargo
>investigate the engine interior
>something else

>>24370401
Investigate the engine

>>24370442
Seconding.

But have a look around to make sure the airship isn't about to leave port. Wouldn't want to be stuck on board.

>>24370401
Investigate that engine after listening to the men talk.

>>24370401
listen to men, check ship, on the way to engine

>>24370524

seconding this motion

I made it in time for this it appears.

>>24370401

You creep closer to the two men.

"...on schedule?"

"Yessir. About a quarter ton more adamantium, 3 tons steel...1 of coal left. Should be good for takeoff just past noon."

"I'll inform the duke. Keep up the good work."

"Yessir."

The man walks off. The man with the paper makes a few notes with a pen, then holsters it in a small portable inkwell he has attached to his belt.

Looks useful.

All these people with pockets and bags...something to carry things with would be helpful.

You wait for a group of men to march off the airship with crates, then duck inside.

Energy thrums under your heels, restrained, but waiting to be unleashed again. You make your way through tight wood and steel passages, deep into the engine room. The thrumming turns into a buzz you can feel inside your chest...

You pass into the innermost room.

The machine churns with steam and smoke. You can see a few men sitting in a corner nearby. They were thick ear coverings, smoky goggles, and thick leathers. They're playing a card game.

In the center of the pistoning, rotating machine is an orb of blue fire. It wavers lazily, but screams with magic.

...you feel a deep urge to consume it...

...the duke probably wouldn't like that, though.

What do you do?

>consume the dynamo
>you've seen the ship. Let's find Flint

>>24370705
The last time we consumed an orb great things happened. Great, great things.
I dunno guys. We never really agreeded to side with the Duke yet...

>>24370705
Cam we consume the aura it is probably creating?

>>24370705

look at it some more.
try and figure out how they are using it to power the ship. try and make a little ball of shadow.

>>24370705
don't consume, maybe try to touch or absorb aura, then find flint in town

>>24370766
One does not just consume auras.

Do not consume

>>24370705
Don't consume it.

As tasty as it may look, we really don't need the Duke seeking revenge against us.

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>>24370766

It's a self-contained magic sphere.

>>24370736

>making an enemy of the duke

Your call...

...huehuehue...

>>24370769
Supporting this.

>>24370769
do not consume, but this

>>24370794
The Duke could completely fuck us.

If we can replace it then I think it'd be alright. Maybe.

>>24370769
This, maybe go toward the cargo hold and see what it holds.

let's do anything but CONSUME

>>24370794
Can we use ink to hide/hold things in our "body"?

>>24370769

You try to move closer...

...the power it exudes pushes against you. It's certainly Fire. Though you can tell that if you could take hold of it, it's energy could be yours.

The flame almost seems to spin...diodes attacked to the surface of the sphere pulse in time with the motion, sparking, almost igniting themselves. The energy seems transferred to the motion of the steel...which conduct magical energy to the rest of the ship. You're not sure what the moving parts have to do with that.

You move closer, and it pushes harder. It's like walking through water...you're slowed down, somehow.

You think that, with effort, you could get close enough to touch it, but there's no real reason to push things. You slip out of the airship and wander down to a darker spot on the cliffs.

The dynamo inspires you with an idea. You recall the smaller orb that was in the golem back in the Old Forest Keep. Having something like that around of your own element might be quite handy. You try to gather your shadow together in a ball...

...but it unravels. You try again, pushing harder. But as soon as you release your efforts, it just falls apart. How does the dynamo stay in one piece?

...hmm. Perhaps that's exactly why they can't make any more. But if you were an elemental, shouldn't you be able to do so?

You sigh. More questions than answers...

What do you do now?

Ink can only be maintained for a short time. You could carry things with you by hand, but that's not very practical.

FYI: having a pack or other container wouldn't impact your physical stealth much, and your magical stealth wouldn't be affected.

>>24370900
It's an extremely potent magical device, they could sense us hiding it. Just leave it alone for now. If things go south with the duke we can always attempt to eat it later.

>>24370919
try to copy the spin of the sphere, then lets find flint

>>24370950
>check a storage area/equipment room for a suitable pack

>>24370950
What I was trying to get at would be to hold the Shadow Sword Shard inside our body. Not consume it, but like, for example, if we placed it inside our arm or head or chest, would it stay there?
>>24370959
I didn't mean the dynamo

>>24370973

If you had fingers, you'd snap them. Motion. Spinning. Perhaps that's the key to the stability?

You push your shadows together, and this time you twist them, spin them over and over in a little cyclone.

Delicately, like a child releasing a top, you let your arms drop from your creation...

...and like a top, it spins for a short time, then falls. Your shadows unravel. But it definitely lasted longer.

Perhaps you're on to something...you file your little experiment away for later.

>>24370919
To the cargo hold.
See what they have and look into nicking a pack or something from them.

>>24371035
Maybe it's a super fast spinning orb contained in glass?

>>24371010

I wasn't talking about the dynamo either. Holding any object inside your body would imply you're Inking to bend yourself like a pocket, but Ink is temporary. You're more jello than water, I suppose. Smoky, wavering, mysterious jello.

>>24371094
I wonder if there's an ability to do such a thing...

>>24371094
Haha ok. So if we wanted to we could make a pocket to keep an object of importance safe during a battle or something of a similar nature, for a short period of time. Will keep in mind.

>>24371035
explore town/find Flint

>>24371148
seconded

>>24371049
>>24370999

You move to the cargo.

There's a small encampment positioned on the dock where the goods are being unloaded. A few men with more pens scurry around, checking things in. Most of it's raw ore, but there are a few odds and ends.

You find a small section that seems dedicated to leather and cloth goods. A quick glance reveals a few choice containers...

Which one do you pick?

>small waist-satchel
>a utility belt with a large purse
>shoulder pack

>>24371158
>a utility belt with a large purse
We are the night!

>>24371158
either small satchel or shoulder pack, do we want small and concealable or more capacity

File: 1366524494602.jpg-(3 KB, 123x126, 1272844074782s.jpg)

3 KB JPG

>>24371197
>obligatory

>>24371158

I really have to get to sleep, so roll 1d100 to determine what Shadow thinks is the best choice.

Rolled 67

>>24371158
GOGOGO

File: 1366524604949.jpg-(64 KB, 628x479, nice.jpg)

64 KB JPG

>>24371235

Rolled 97

>>24371264
roll

Rolled 11

>>24371264

Rolled 12

>>24371264
ROLLING

>>24371287
>>24371284
>>24371272

The utility belt really draws your eye. All those different-sized compartments...and the large purse looks big enough to hold keys and the shard of the sword you found. You snatch it from the pile and clip it around yourself. It fits snug and concealed against your side.

>dunununununununuunu SHA-DOW

You decide you really ought to find out what Flint's been up to all day.

-----------------
-----------------

And you will, next time.

Tomorrow, at 8pm EST.

Tonight's thread was rather slow, but informative.

Tomorrow's thread...

...will be different.

Ask a question while I brush my teeth or forever hold your peace.

Rolled 73

>>24371386
Sorry I was so late.
Was I on the right track with the spinning orb contained in glass or something else?
Have a wonderful night by the way.

Rolled 90

>>24371386
Was >>24371142 correct?

>>24371386
Thanks as always for running this Shadow Master.
Should we be concerned that after spending so much time here and hearing of the dukes plans...that we might not be able to turn his offer down even if we wanted to?

>>24371399
>Was I on the right track with the spinning orb contained in glass or something else?

That would be telling.

>>24371418

Yes, for about 10 seconds if you really needed to conceal something briefly.

File: 1366525358723.jpg-(609 KB, 839x1244, Duke Vellik (3).jpg)

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>>24371490

>Should we be concerned that after spending so much time here and hearing of the dukes plans...that we might not be able to turn his offer down even if we wanted to?

Actions have consequences.

>>24371492
Cool!
Thanks for the thread tonight
Goodnight

>>24371523
>implying we weren't already going to accept

>>24371490
What reason do we have to turn it down thouh?

>>24371532

You're very welcome.

To all a good night.

>>24371537

Don't worry, I've got backup factions.

>>24371579

>just in case you all get a case of insanity and give the Duke the finger or something

Also, thread is archived, and that concludes our broadcast day.

>>24371523
I had a feeling it would be something like that. Clearly this will be one dangerous alley to have.

Why would we turn down the duke's offer?
He seems like a good person, idealistic, wise. And his plans and ideals are IDENTICAL to what we wanted to achieve (a 3rd side for peace between the elements)
Furthermore, he brought it up himself rather then us bringing it up and him agreeing. So either he read our mind or he is exactly what we need and want.

>>24371712
Oh I think we are going to join as well, but if we "don't" join up bad things will no doubt happen to us.
I'm hoping that if/when we join we can have freedom to do what we want. Like if we have an objective we have the freedom to go about finishing it as we please.

>>24371712
Or the third option, he carefully examined the little he knew about our actions and staged every bit of speech to engender us to his goals and ideas. He knew about the Lich and Abigail, and he knows about our relationship with Flint. Both before espousing his personal ideas to us.
He would have to extrapolate a lot to come to that conclusion, but he is apparently a successful politician AND a lightning wiz-wiz. So there's that.
Caution is our friend, I believe. And caution I will recommend when the next thread gets rolling.