>>27242257
Obviously we're a steppe nomad.

>>27242257

> Guesthouse.

Let's head up social ladder.

> In your hut in a village.

>>27242275
supporting this.

and if we are a fighter, we should be a skilled horse-rider who wields a glaive.

> In the guesthouse of a great lord.

>>27242275
>>27242415
On the steppes, with a hawk at our wrist, and the fields before us.

> In the guesthouse of a great lord.

Sounds like quite an intresting start

>>27242257
>Other
let's start in a bathhouse

>>27242257
In the guesthouse of a great lord.

> I'm taking the hut answer to be a vote for the nomads, so now there's 4 for each option.

> Will write once a greater consensus is achieved.

>>27242415
We Jaghatai now

>>27242679
Hut/Nomad/Steppes

>>27242679
The guest of a great lord

>>27242691
>>27242683
>>27242438
>>27242415
>>27242391
>>27242275

> Well, let it be a village of the nomads then!

You sit up on your sheepskin mat in the tent, and dash to open the flaps and look eastwards. Sure enough, on the distant, green fields where a circle of round tents marks your hometown, you can see a thick smear of black smoke rising into the air from the large, central tent.

The gongs, the smoke - it's the tribal leader summoning all the far-flung members of the clans!

Quickly you clamber on your short, stout pony and canter down a gentle green slope, passing small clusters of other horses, as well as herds of grazing sheep and cows. It's been a pretty good year for your tribe, this - mild weather, not too much infighting, and good grazing.

Which makes it strange that you're being summoned as if to an emergency. Dismounting at the fence, you quickly find yourself with a big crowd of people - your friends, enemies, tribe-mates. You can spot some of your friends, grouped together near a banner.

Near the entrance to the chief's tent, you spot three or four girls, among whom is Mara, the chief's niece. Just as your eyes fall on her, though, you hear someone calling behind you.

'Oi, if it isn't the orphan! Missing your old mare and stallion?'

Well, you couldn't go too many days without that taunt.

> Go talk to your friends.
> Approach Mara.
> Turn around to your taunter.
> Ignore everything, stand and watch.
> Other.

> Chargen question to follow.

> Steppe.

We can always become the quest of a great lord later. From the steppe.

>>27242706
> Ignore everything, stand and watch.
Silent Badass.

>>27242706
> Ignore everything, stand and watch.

>>27242706
> Ignore everything, stand and watch.

>>27242706
stand and watch but make note of who's mocking us we will deal with them later

>>27242706

> Upbringing: Steppe

As someone born in the steppes, you live three-quarters of your waking hours atop a horse, and horsemanship comes to you naturally.

On the minus side, having never had occasion to learn how to read or write, the many documents that settled people use might as well be firewood to you.

What are your other aptitudes, however?

> You are skilled at the bow.
> You are skilled at the ferocious curved kishabra sword that your people wield.
> You are a natural at navigation and tracking.
> You are naturally knowledgeable in music and poetry, and the memory of your tribe.
> You have an understanding of tactics and organising small groups.
> Others (appropriate skills will receive due consideration)

File: 1379273195142.gif-(793 KB, 360x203, euphoric.gif)

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>>27242706
>Tell him to go fuck a goat.

>>27242780
they are the obviously idiots who'll get themselves killed or shit themselves in the first fight. no need to trouble ourselves with them.

>>27242863
> You are skilled at the ferocious curved kishabra sword that your people wield.
Just choose one?

>>27242863
> You are skilled at the ferocious curved kishabra sword that your people wield.
and as a secondary
> You have an understanding of tactics and organising small groups.

>>27242863
>You are skilled with firearms that the russians bring in.

>>27242863
>Skilled with glaive
> You have an understanding of tactics and organising small groups.

>>27242863

Damn. To clarify, pick a primary and a secondary skill.

> Also, writing.

>>27242863
Tactics and the bow.

>>27242863
> You have an understanding of tactics and organising small groups.

This is not going to be Great Warrior Quest, although we will be a great warrior. This is Warlord Quest, and we will crush our enemies with strategy and tactics.

>>27242763
> Ignore everything, stand and watch.

This idiot isn't worth our time.

>>27242912
Going with this.

>>27242877
well we'll just make sure he gets himself killed

>>27242863
Primary: Kishabra sword
Secondary: Tactics

>>27242955
If we are a warrior first and a leader second, we will never be able to unite the tribes.

>>27242863
> You are skilled at the ferocious curved kishabra sword that your people wield.

>>27242863
> You have an understanding of tactics and organising small groups.

>>27242863

Primary skill: Tactics
Secondary skill: Persuasion. The gift of gab is a useful one for a leader less on the battlefield.

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>>27242733
>>27242745
>>27242763
>>27242780
>>27242929

Your father, before he was killed, once told you something about the eagle. For every swoop it makes, it spends half a day watching for the chance to swoop. The genius of the eagle is not in its swoop, but its vigilance.

Keeping that in mind, you ignore the people behind you. You know who they are anyway, Andar and Shuma; they have never liked you, and the feeling is mutual. Instead, you move slightly to keep out of the way and watch.

It doesn't take long before you think you can piece together what's happening. You spot a strange vehicle, a four-horse cart that only the Imperials to your south ever use, kept quite near the chief's tent. You also see a brace of guards around the tent entrance, wearing the heavy armour that their foot soldiers wear. Most importantly, you spot the blue flag with a yellow-red sun which is flying near where Mara is standing.

An Imperial delegation? But what for?

Your question is soon answered when the Chief himself, dressed in full battle regalia, emerges from the tent, with a rather scrawny looking man in a black and red robe beside him. Silk robes, and a silk headdress. The crowd quickly presses forward to listen to the scrawny man, who turns out to speak your language quite well, though he stumbles here and there.

> cont'd

Rolled 46

>>27242863
Bow and Tactics. If we're going to be steppe raiders we NEED to have the necessary skills to live up to the reputation. Sword or Lance/Glaive skills can be secondary as i'm sure we have basic knowledge of them already being part of the tribe's levy.

>>27243147
I agree, but with the order switched around.

>>27243145

'Brave people! The Empire, your ally and overlord, is in peril! Evil people in the frontiers have dared to rise against His Imperial and Celestial Majesty! Thieves and bandits criss-cross the land! The Four Seas are boiling, the Five Mountains quake, and the drums and trumpets sound throughout the land!

'We hereby command thee, as the subjects and allies of the Empire, to come forth and volunteer for service, to restore peace and light to the Imperial Realm! It is your duty, and the Empire rewards with munificence those who fulfil their duty!'

Ah. A call to service! You hear something more about how the men will be gathered and moved out tomorrow, and there will be a feast this evening, but your thoughts drown those out already.

> You will serve with them!
> There are other ways to profit from the Empire's troubles.
> Who are they to draft you, a free steppe-son? You will join on your terms.
> This is... this isn't for you, really. Hehe, heh.

Also, skill consensus appears to be:

> Kishabra sword
> Tactics and Coordination

> Unless there are vehement objections, sword skill is primary and tactics secondary.

>>27242863
>Tactics: primary
>The sword: secondary

Gotta be able to lead and deal with champion warfare maybe.

>>27243203

If we're exceptional on horseback, sword use doesn't make much sense. It should be Tactics then Bows.

>>27243203
There are vhemnent objections to having our tactics skill be secondary unless we can improve it over time. Are skills fixed? Can we have more than two?

>>27243243
The fucking bow isn't important for US, it's important for all the rank and file motherfuckers.

We're going to need to excel in single combat and shit like that, not to mention there'll be dudes looking to come over to the command post and fuck us up with melee.

Sword is fine, believe me, especially if there are honor duels and so forth.

>>27243219
Yeah, tactics needs to be first if we're going to be a warlord. Sword and Board ought to serve us pretty well in regular and champion combat, but it shouldn't be our primary.

>>27243203
men respect strength I say we keep our skills as is and on our down time study tactics so that way we are both a good swordsmen and leader

>>27243286
>>27243264
>>27243246
>>27243243
>>27243219

Skills can be improved with experience, luck and practice. The more occasion you have to use your weapons - and you probably will have occasion - the more likely you are to hone your skills.

Also, I will note that even if you have 'normal' bow skill for a steppe nomad, you are a pretty fine shooter by Imperial standards. Somewhat the same with sword skill - you sons of the plains are just better fighters by nature.

> So how react to the call?
> Other questions welcome.

>>27243203
I support this skill set.
> ho are they to draft you, a free steppe-son? You will join on your terms.

>>27243264
At the moment, we ARE rank and file and it is what was taught to ALL steppe-sons. Weapon skill can build with time and I dare you to feed yourself on the plains with that sword.

>>27243203
So guise, do we want to try and work up the ranks of this empire as a loyal servant and end up navigating court politics and probably fighting a civil war, or do we want to come in with a shitload of rebellious troops and foreign invaders and carve out our own realm?

Column A nets us the benefits of civility, but column B means plenty of hijinks like taking over an imperial rocket manufactory or something and ultimately means having control over our state but needing to figure out government ourselves.

Either way people will probably hate us for invading SOMETHING. We're gonna warlord, after all.

>>27243203
Yes I like this skills.
> Who are they to draft you, a free steppe-son? You will join on your terms.
It's just the principle of the matter. We may choose to fight with them or not. The important thing is that it is our choice.

>>27243318
>feed yourself on the plains with that sword
You drink mare's milk like a proper mongol, durr.

>>27243264
That's absolutely retarded. The bow is far more important than the sword, given that that's what our entire system of warfare is based around. And if some dudes are coming to our command post, they'll be unpleasantly surprised by our army and bodyguard of elite soldiers who don't really need to concern themselves with anything but keeping us from having to deal with idiots trying to cut us up.

>>27243203
>> Unless there are vehement objections, sword skill is primary and tactics secondary.
I'd like it to be vice-verse

> You will serve with them!
lets do this

>>27243327

I say we do both. Namely, we do A, gain status and wealth, until the empire is tottering on the brink, then switch to B and slaughter the lot.

So to do that,

> You will serve with them!

also, if we are pretty good with bow anyway, then let's go for sword.

>>27243344
Yeah, because we're never going to be engaging in melee combat with other champions, dealing with disloyalty within the ranks of our elite bodyguard, or anything else, ever.

I need you to do me a favor and shush, the wuxia's about to start. There's some motherfucker out of Crouching Tiger coming at us with an artifact blade from some other dynasty. I HOPE THE BOW'S READY.

>>27243302
who are they to draft us the free sons of the steppe

>>27243302
I guess we have normal bow skill? Okay then, keep the skills as they are.

>>27243203
Yes I like these skills. Don't change.

>>27243412
>Implying we don't already have some skill with the sword/spear being part of the levy.

>>27243332
>>27243303
I'm going to support this and suggest we ask the emissary what we have to demonstrate to be worthy of joining as an officer, as we have some small skill we thing the ancestors may find us worthy of wielding in that capacity.

Or maybe the chief picks his underlings in this situation, in which case we should try to join in some contest.

Maybe we've demonstrated leadership skills when hunting or some nonsense? Patrolling for motherfuckers?

>>27243467
Leave it alone, anon, we'll just have to practice the bow soon.

>>27243501
fund it

if they won't recognize our talents, it's time to find another group to lead

>>27243332
>>27243351
>>27243406
>>27243501
>>27243303

> To clarify on the bow skill problem - yes, your skills with a bow are nothing special. Among the steppe-sons. You suspect it will not be so unremarkable if you head into the Empire.
> So your skills: Sword, Tactics, Horsemanship
> Your weakness: Illiteracy

For a while you stand there, wondering what to do, but then very quickly there is a commotion at the chief's tent. Someone starts yelling for people to stop, others yell at the yellers to stop yelling, and the chaos continues as people are shoving around.

As far as you can see, it seems people are signing up to join. You are tempted to do that too, actually. The Empire - you know what that's about. Wealth. Power. Beautiful women. Awe-inspiring cities. And gold. Gold, gold, silver, silver, gold.

And yet - what are the chances of you getting very much of that if you just throw on your coat and become one of their bowman? It is a dilemma that no one else seems to be getting. Your tormentors and your friends alike are joining the scrum, trying to get to the front and sign up.

Or at least most of them are. You turn and see Savas, one of your childhood friends who is a distant nephew of the Chief, coming towards you as he calls your name. Enthusiastically, you respond with an embrace.

'What do you think about all this, brother?' He says, pointing at the scrum. 'They're holding a really big feast this evening - I saw them leading sixty sheep and thirty cows off to the stream.'

That's a lot of meat! A nice little signing bonus, no doubt.

> Maybe I will go to the feast.
> We should knock up a band and volunteer, not line up to be conscripts.
> I need to find out more, Savas.
> Why are we fighting for the Empire? What's wrong with a little rebellion?
> Other.

Also, what are you named after?

> Tiger
> Wolf
> Eagle
> Ram
> Stallion
> Cloud
> Other.

>>27243760
> Eagle

> We should knock up a band and volunteer, not line up to be conscripts.

With #1 as the leader, of course.

>>27243760
Eagle.
> We should knock up a band and volunteer, not line up to be conscripts.

>>27243760
> I need to find out more, Savas.
While uneducated we are no fool.
>Eagle
Sharp

>>27243760
> Eagle

> We should knock up a band and volunteer, not line up to be conscripts.

With #1 as the leader, of course.

Also, earlier we were very quiet. I think our character should think a long while before he speaks (in general) but when he does, he's got something worth listening to.

Rolled 15 + 3

>I need to find out more, Savas.
> Why are we fighting for the Empire? What's wrong with a little rebellion?

>Wolf

I want to start a technological revolution!

>>27243760
Wolf
we should gather a band and volunteer

>>27243760
> Tiger
> We should knock up a band and volunteer, not line up to be conscripts.

>>27243760
>> We should knock up a band and volunteer, not line up to be conscripts.
>> I need to find out more, Savas.

> Eagle

>>27243760
>> We should knock up a band and volunteer, not line up to be conscripts.
>> I need to find out more, Savas.
These, basically.

"My friend, it is good that there is work that will not stain us with dishonor, work that our ancestors will smile on from Heaven - but why waste our talents and be conscripts if we think we can extend the lives of those around us by leading them into battle well, instead of allowing some Empire-born soft-handed foreigner to throw away their chance to gain glory? We are little but another village to these people, for all the pretty and exciting words and all the supposed honors they show us as loyal subjects."

"Let us go and safeguard the lives of our fellows if we can, Savas. Let us find a way to lead them."

>Name
Red Cloud. We will be a thousand cuts to the enemy, and their blood will be flung up by the wind until they are lost in the fog of it.

>>27243760
> We should knock up a band and volunteer, not line up to be conscripts.
With a bit of
>I need to find out more, Savas
>Eagle
>>27243817
I agree with that.

>>27243891
...changing my vote to this.

Can you please refrain from directly quoting dialogue from players? They always try to be overly eloquent.

>>27243909
>overly eloquent
wat
good writing is good writing. what's your problem?

Can you please DO NOT refrain from directly quoting dialogue from players? They always try to be eloquent.

>>27243925
More like delusionally eloquent.

>>27243925

Dialogue written with the intent to impress others tends to be flighty and self indulgent. Besides, in a quest thread like this with one character, it's bad form for one person to try and act as the voice of the character.

>>27243817
>Also, earlier we were very quiet. I think our character should think a long while before he speaks (in general) but when he does, he's got something worth listening to.
I agree. Terse. Short and to the point.

>>27243909
I agree. It is always better to rephrase the lines to fit better the character and the writing.

Writing.

Also, sure about the style. You are a steppe-son, not a rhetorician, so flowery speech is not his way. But if something is elegantly phrased by a poster, I see no reason not to honour them by quoting.

>>27243970
That's bullshit, everyone can make suggestions and offer their own dialogue and, y'know, second offered content or speak out against it just like we're doing now.

People have been supplying dialogue for group approval in single-character quests for years, it's quite accepted and hardly delusional if the writer is any good. Judge by the content, not by your prejudices.

>>27244015
There is a reason. The MC is going to seem overly schizophrenic if you take dialogue from posters. It will be a different poster each time and will ruin the 'canon' perception of the character for other players. It's best for the QM to just come up with it.

It also basically takes a chance to characterize the MC from other players. Let's take a look at this quote.

"My friend, it is good that there is work that will not stain us with dishonor, work that our ancestors will smile on from Heaven - but why waste our talents and be conscripts if we think we can extend the lives of those around us by leading them into battle well, instead of allowing some Empire-born soft-handed foreigner to throw away their chance to gain glory? We are little but another village to these people, for all the pretty and exciting words and all the supposed honors they show us as loyal subjects."

"My friend, it is good that there is work that will not stain us with dishonor"
>Implying the MC cares about honor. We could be playing as a petty thief.

>>27244079
...Yeah, because the QM can't exercise some degree of editorial initiative to maintain consistency. Which the good QMs do.

>implying the character is serious
>implying the character has no honor in a steppe culture where he's still welcome in society and a friend to the chief's kinsman
>implying you get to decide this any more than anyone else, and should do anything but approve or disapprove of the supplied quote with editorial suggestions of your own

>>27243909
>>27243958
>>27243970
>>27244065
>>27244079
>>27244136

all of you summerfags can stop this bullshit now and go back to the quest, you are why we can't have nice things

>>27244079
>Implying the MC cares about honor. We could be playing as a petty thief.
and we could be playing as grand general of our era. whats your point? you dont make any sense with your assumptions and prejudice.

>>27244079
or you know the MC could just be saying it to gain followers never says we care for honour
besides the fact we're a son of the steppes we believe in honour as part of our culture

>>27243892
>>27243799
>>27243810
>>27243815
>>27243817
>>27243832
>>27243859
>>27243861
>>27243874

> Your name means 'eagle' in your tongue, and it is Esalar.

'That's a lot of meat,' you think aloud, and Savas - who knows the way you are with thinking - waits a few moments for you to continue. 'I am considering joining.'

'I don't see you doing that, Esalar.'

'Yes, Savas, I don't mean joining like that. Those people... are lining up to be sheep. Conscripts. If we join the war, we should get to choose which side we are on. Also, I need to know more about what's going on down south.'

Savas grins. Clearly he's heard some things, which doesn't surprise you; he's pretty good at gossiping, and one of the few youngsters in the tribe who has a rudimentary understanding of those Imperial squiggles. 'Well, what's happened down south is, there is a powerful general who has revolted against the court and seized about a quarter of their empire. And the Emperor has summoned many generals to fight him, but those generals are themselves leading armies by their own initiative. I know that's not much to go on, but it's what I know.'

> cont'd.

>>27244190

'It sounds like… a stampeding herd, doesn't it?' You turn to Savas, and then see that there is a glint in his eye. He clearly intends to join as well, and on the same terms as you. Given his higher status as a relative of the chief, and your rather low status as an orphan (albeit of an honourably killed father), there is no question of who will be the leader if the two of you start a war band…

'A stampeding herd, yes,' Savas says, and then confirms your suspicions. 'I've already got three or four people who say they will go with me. And hopefully more will say yes if I ask them later at the feast. Will you be going? And what say you?'

You look at your friend, the man who gifted you a third of his animals when your parents died, the better to keep you alive. A friend. But a master...?

> Let's go terrify our foes together, Savas.
> I will consider your offer, friend.
> Keep quiet. (This might be interpreted any way.)
> Other.

> Also, do anything before you head to the feast? If not I'll time-skip. If so I'll process before you go stuff your face with some ROAST MUTTON.

>>27244164
>>27244178
These anons are right.

Quests have given players the option to write in quest content forever. I don't know where you get this idea that players shouldn't write anything in.

But it should be remembered that Sun Tzu was a steppe nomad by some estimations. The Art of War is written in a somewhat laconic style for a reason.

>>27244216
> Keep quiet.

> Also, we will talk dialogue over as fellows and players. I love when dialogue is submitted, and can assure you that even if it is not used or quoted, it will not be ignored.

>>27244260
You just got yourself a loyal player, OP.

>>27244216
>Keep quiet.
for now. it fits the character and gives us more time to assess the situation.

>>27244216
> Let's go terrify our foes together, Savas.

>>27244216
> Let's go terrify our foes together, Savas.
We'll follow him. He's smart. If we can earn glory with him, we will be able to create a warband of our own.

> Also, do anything before you head to the feast? If not I'll time-skip. If so I'll process before you go stuff your face with some ROAST MUTTON.

Go to our friends and those we respect, ask them if they would be willing to join us.

>>27244216
>Other
"My skill in leading the hunt, friend. Will it be used if we go together?"

>>27244216
we shall make our foes quake in fear at our coming

>>27244216
> Let's go terrify our foes together, Savas.

Rolled 15 + 3

>>27244216
Go to the feast

>>27244321
This, actually. Pause to think, then say this. We can make a lot of allies by being honest.

>>27244321
this

>>27244321
>>27244366
Seconding.

Then do >>27244315
>Go to our friends and those we respect, ask them if they would be willing to join us.

>>27244321

Agree with this.

Think we should join, but let's ask. Honesty among friends.

>>27244325
this guy here changing vote to >>27244321

>>27244321
This.

You pause for a long while, and soon you can see Savas' face begin to change - confidence turning into doubt, or maybe suspicion. To be honest, you are unsure about Savas' ability to lead an army. He is a clever man, and he might be a good rider and archer, but he does have a bit... too much confidence at times.

'Well, Esalar?'

'I was just thinking of what we normally do while hunting, and wondering if we will do the same in war.' Normally, whenever Savas and his band of companions went hunting - that includes you - you have tended to be the man to lead the round-up, the all-important manoeuvre to get the animals in position for the shooters. You don't think you could ever ask to be the official leader of a war-band; that is simply not yours, not now. But if you could lead...

Savas, unlike you, does not hesitate. Instead he slaps his hand on your shoulder. 'Is *that* your worry, Esalar? Perish the thought. You will be the vanguard, because you have always been the vanguard.'

And with that, he parts, ordering you to go to the feast. Well, if you will become part of his warband (and it will be *his*), you might as well help raise that warband as well. The crowd of sign-ups is beginning to organise itself a bit, though people are still milling around and you can spot your friends. You will need to consider what you want in your war-comrades.

Meanwhile, surprisingly, those idiots who taunted you - they and their entire group of friends have disappeared from the area. Could they be thinking what Savas is thinking, too?

> Whatever you choose, roll d20.
> Focus on skill in fighting.
> Focus on intelligence and cunning.
> Focus on loyalty to you.
> Focus on something else. (Write in)

>>27244321
Definitely this.

>>27244576
>Focus on intelligence and cunning.
With a secondary
>Focus on loyalty to you.
They can learn to fight, but you can't fix stupid.

Rolled 11

>>27244576
> Focus on intelligence and cunning.

Rolled 6

>>27244576

Loyalty.

Rolled 19

>>27244609
Forgot my roll.

Rolled 4

>>27244576
> Focus on intelligence and cunning.

>>27244609
Gonna go with this.

Rolled 7

>>27244576
> Focus on skill in fighting.
> Focus on loyalty to you.

about equal parts these.as the vanguard we need the most skillfull and loyal fighters we can find.

>>27244576
>Other
>Focus on a balance of cunning and skill.

True loyalty is earned in the end.

We can get bodies to fill the ranks anywhere, but these are going th be men from our own village, and their loyalty is halfway-earned already if they're willing to sign up with a band of their fellows going to foreign parts.

Rolled 15

>>27244641
rolld 1d10 by accident.

Rolled 17

>>27244642
Rollan.

Rolled 12

>>27244576
loyalty to us
with cunning as as a second

Rolled 13

>>27244576
> Focus on skill in fighting.

>>27244609
>>27244630
Gonna support this, 'cause dice.

>>27244642
>>27244654
This isn't bad either, if the first one's unavailable.

>>27244576
OP, I think it's usually best to wait for consensus and then tell everyone to roll.

>>27244781
i agree. it becomes chaotic if everyone rolls before we decide on an action.

>>27244781
Don't let these uncultured swine push you around on mechanics, OP. Consensus with this many players is a drag this early anyway, and tell people to roll whenever you want. We'll have momentum for consensus later when the naysayers and the day-trippers have all peeled off.

>>27244781
>>27244805

> I see your point; will keep it in mind next time. Thankfully we're not rolling for a battle manoeuvre now, eh?

>>27244654
>>27244630

> Since both rolls are pretty high, I'll go with a mix of these two. There's an overlap after all.
> Also, I'll have a name now.

After some consideration, during which you mill around with the boys, you decide that you will need to emphasise on the people who can carry out orders properly as well as being able to fight, and one group comes to mind.

Your hunting buddies. People who can ride hard, do the round-up properly, divide fleeing deer and separate the stags from the useless hinds, and then run in for the kill. Definitely those. With that in mind, you go among them and ask, privately and discreetly.

To your delight, many of them approve over the course of the afternoon.

> You have recruited 6 men, all your fellow rounders-up in the hunt. They will gain names as they become prominent; I don't want to choke us with names.

The main prize, however, is the one you go for last - Ferho, your deputy in many hunts, a rider of consummate skill who uses a lasso like it is his own hand. Unfortunately, when you manage to find the short, stocky man, he is already deep in conversation with an Imperial, not the official himself but a colleague.

'Think about it, Fero,' the Imperial mangles your friend's name, 'if you will but march with us, and the thousands who are already with us, then we will reward you heavily. You will get to fight with your fellows, and we will accord the spoils of war as is honourable.'

Ferho turns and notices you.

> Cut in and debate the attendant.
> Stand there, pressure silently.
> Leave it. You'll talk to him while eating ROAST MUTTON.
> Other.

Also, your suspicions are further aroused when you glance over Ferho's shoulder and see Shuma, your rival, walking with a group of people. Among them is another nephew of the chief's - and a rival of Savas.

>>27244900
>Cut in and debate the attendant.

>>27244900

> Stand there, pressure silently.

It's what we do.

>>27244900
politely cut in and debate the imperial

>>27244900
don't draw to many attention. just pressure silently

>>27244900

Stand there, pressure silently. I'm feeling a strong but silent vibe for our future Warlord.

>>27244900
>Stand there, pressure silently.
Let him decide. We will judge him accordingly.

>>27244947
>>27244952
>>27244955
>>27244972
>>27244973
>>27245014

You consider cutting in to talk straightaway, but realise it would give away your hand far too quickly. If you were not trying to recruit him, then why would you be debating the attendant? And if you were trying to recruit him, then would that not be suspicious?

The eagle watches, you remind yourself. You stand, catching Ferho's eye once, then again, and then to your joy, he interrupts the attendant mid-flow.

'Well, we are certain to make sure that the provisions-'

'If you will excuse me, sir. I think someone...' Ferho looks away from you consciously, the clever man, 'needs my company to help. But say more at the feast, certainly.'

And before long he is with you. 'What news, Esalar?'

When you tell him, you are only halfway through when you see his eyes light up. He puts a hand on your shoulder to stop you.

'Is this what I think it means, Cloud?' That's what Ferho means to your people.

'We shall go to the feast together,' he says, 'and tell the attendants to bugger off. I can get all the loot and women and pay I want, but they will never give me my brothers.'

Well said, Ferho, well said! With that you head with him for the feast.

> cont'd.

>>27245163

By now the sun is almost setting, and the smell of meat is drawing all the people, steppe-sons and Imperials alike, towards the great open-air fires and the many tables and mats laid out outside the camp on the north. You arrive just in time for the officiation of the feast, where the Imperial recruiter - who looks very, very uncomfortable with this task - takes a severed cow's head and heaves it into a fierce fire, letting the smoke waft up to Tengari Himself, the Blue and Limitless Sky.

Right! Tengari is appeased, and it's time to eat! You sit down with Ferho at a table in the corner, both of you watching the proceedings as people run around finding seats and serving the hot, steaming meat. The aroma in the air is terribly appealing.

'So, Esalar, this isn't something just the two of us are doing, is it?'

'No, not just the two of us...' you trail off, just as a servant girl comes up, struggling under the weight of plenty of mutton and a large flagon of wine. You could sit here and eat, or... there is no end of things to do, actually. Surely you have some options alive in your head.

You can see Savas, and the men he has gathered; he has not spotted you. Again you see the many pretty ladies of the tribe clustered near the chief's table, taking the opportunity to flirt or not-flirt with the men.

> Go and look for the men you recruited and sit together.
> Go gather everyone to Savas and sit with him.
> Sit here and just eat the bloody mutton already.
> Go look for someone or something else (write-in).
> Other.

>>27245301
>> Go and look for the men you recruited and sit together.

>>27245301
>Other
>Bring more to our cause, even if not directly asking them to join, plant the seed of forming your own band among the tribe

>>27245301

> Go look for someone or something else (write-in).

That girl we mentioned before. Then,

> Go and look for the men you recruited and sit together.

>>27245301
>>27245301
Go look for the men you recruited, sit together, maybe chat up even more suitable people to recruit or call them over, maybe try to consolidate with other groups.

>>27245353
So basically this. Though not exactly 'our own' band insofar as that of us and our friends including the chief's kinsman.

>>27245301
Go gather your recruits and then meet Savas and eat together as brothers in arms

>>27245388
>>27245353
I suggest a mix of these two

>>27245301
> Go gather everyone to Savas and sit with him.

>>27245328
>>27245353
>>27245369
>>27245387

We traitors so quickly?

But I second.

>>27245301
> Go gather everyone to Savas and sit with him.
We can form our own band later. They'll join us when they see our skill in battle.

>>27245301
> Go gather everyone to Savas and sit with him.
We're a man of honor.

>>27245439
Not traitors, no. I meant we gather mor men to Savas' banner.

Though recruiting too many people for Savas to easily lead would probably make it more tempting for him to tell us he's splitting the warband.

NEW STRATEGY: Get so many recruits that Savas doesn't want to deal with them, offer to be an ally to him and run secondary warband yourself so you can both manage more power collectively, get own warband faster.

>>27245369
Second this.

Our prestige would be increased if we can bag the Chief's neice, helping us form our own warband when the time comes.

>>27245439
We're not traitors if we're gathering those we feel best compliment our status as vanguard.

We're going to be the eyes, the ears, and most importantly, the tip of the spear. Those Savas gathers don't necessarily need the same skillset that our position requires.

Also, vote for gathering our men and joining Savas.

>>27245583
We're not traitors...yet. Men of skill are just as desirable to us as men of their word. We lead the tip of the spear, all should know and respect that.

>>27245583
>>27245579
>>27245571
>>27245505
>>27245439
>>27245436
>>27245432
>>27245388
>>27245387
>>27245369
>>27245353
>>27245328

You refuse the food and drink for now, and then head off to find some of those people you recruited. Before long you are walking around at the head of about ten people, with whom you go to Savas, who looks up at you.

'My my, Esalar, what's this?' He stands up with a grin, and then you realise what's happened. He's still got just four or five people recruited, it seems; but they are all the relatives of the chiefs and the nobility of the tribe. Each one of them could probably order you lashed if you transgressed against them - or at least if you did so right now, anyway.

'I asked some of your hunters if they'd like to hunt for you elsewhere,' you say, and that draws laughter from those seated. Savas quickly gives you a short, quick hug.

'That's my man! That's Esalar! Come, sit down! We were just talking about what plans we have for this band.'

You do as you're told, and listen for a while, along with your men. The divide in status is clear - nobles on one side; hunters on the other. The nobles hold forth on strategy, and Savas seems to be answering smoothly while drinking hard at the same time.

'So, Brother, when do we set off and where do we head?'

'We ought to head west, then southwest,' another one says, and Savas points to him.

'That's good. We can go to this Imperial fort, where they used to have a battalion of men. Wushen, I think it's called!'

You're... not sure if you should be getting a few nomads to rush an Imperial fort... also, it turns out some of the nobles are advocating a delay to departure, so they can gather *their* own men. Savas seems tempted by the idea.

> Raise your objections. (To what, and what do you propose?)
> Keep your own counsel.
> Ask a question of your own to deflect those dubious plans. (What do you ask?)
> Do something else - it might be your last evening in the tribe. Ever.
> Other.

>>27245663

> Ask a question of your own to deflect those dubious plans. (What do you ask?)

Question whether we go for Imperials at all. Why not just raid for now?

>>27245663
Agree with the prospect of waiting to gather more men, but suggest that we harass enemy supply lines instead of attack forts with no siege equipment.

Then:
> Do something else - it might be your last evening in the tribe. Ever.
Chiefs niece, we know we want to.

>>27245663
We need first supplies and weapons. Charging into a fort seems like a good way to get our entire band slaughtered before it began. We should first ambush some supply route, steal gold, armor, horses, and weapons before we charge into any real combat. We should stage our little ambush, then let the worthy recruits come to us.

>>27245663
rushing a fort, even if it is a skeleton crew? NOPE NOPE NOPE

Advocate following the imperials back and join as mercenaries rather than conscripts. Better pay and the option to get the hell out of dodge quick, fast, and in a hurry if things go south.

>>27245301
>Go and look for the men you recruited and sit together.

>>27245808
>>27245787
>>27245762
So we bandit now? All according to plan...

>>27245851
No. No banditry.

>>27245663
Agree with gather more man for a few days and when we have free time woo the chiefs niece

>>27245663
> Ask a question of your own to deflect those dubious plans. (What do you ask?)

"Honored chieftain's-kin, share your wisdom with a simple hunter - what is our purpose at this fort with fifteen men - or even fifty - without gold to buy better arms abandoned or unneeded, or great Imperial machinery to wreck its walls? We are eager to clearly understand our purpose, the better to fulfill it."

>>27245946
This.

Add "Perhaps we are merely stopping by to learn more news of this war, to know well our enemies and allies?"

>>27245946
>>27245851
>>27245810
>>27245808
>>27245787
>>27245762

After a long while, and after looking at the people you recruited, you finally decide to put down the shoulder of lamb you've been enjoying in silence and stand up. The nobles glance at you as you do, slightly surprised.

To be sure, you understand that Savas isn't meaning to *storm* Wushen fort. That would be insane. He meant to approach it and offer to join them. But still...

'Brother, I think it might not be a good idea to head for an Imperial fort, whether or not we go in peace or in war. They are long accustomed to us as raiders, and will assume that if we approach and treat us accordingly. So perhaps-'

'Did you hear that, Brother Savas?' Someone cuts you off. 'He's calling you Brother!'

Oh fuck, you forgot. You do address him as that, but almost never before other nobles, where the hierarchy is a lot stricter than friendship. To be honest, given you are childhood friends, they ought not to have a say at all. Thankfully Savas shoots the man a glare.

'Gotaras, he *is* my brother. He has rounded up forty of my hunts, shot tigers advancing on me, and wrestled wolves so I could land the killing blow. One who does that for me is a brother. If you wish to doubt that, do as he has done, then complain about Esalar's etiquette.'

Gotaras' eyes are as round as marbles as he turns back to his liquor, the others smirking at him. Then he gives you a glare like a kishabra blade, and tears into a hunk of beef. Savas turns back to you.

'Well, Brother, so what do you suggest? I have been told that both the Imperial armies and the rebels are within striking distance of us - Imperials to the southwest, rebels on the southeast.'

'We will have to do what we do best. That will give us supplies we need...'

Raiding, of course. You all know raiding. But raid what?

> We should take care to attack the Rebels first.
> We should take care to attack the Imperials.
> We are wolves. Flesh is flesh!
> Other.

Rolled 3 + 3

>>27246070
>We are wolves. Flesh is flesh!

>>27246070

Also, given the frostiness of the atmosphere after Savas' rebuke, you have the feeling you ought to retire from this table for a while. Thinking forward is a good thing to do, so you consider your options.

> Go talk to Mara. Who knows when you might see the likes of her again?
> Go and look for Savas' rivals, to sound them out.
> Go do some more recruiting. More hands and hooves never hurt.
> Go sound out the Imperials. They're at the chief's table; what are *they* planning?
> Fuck backing down. We'll stay here and continue talking!
> Other.

>>27246070
> We are wolves. Flesh is flesh!

>>27246145
>We are wolves. Flesh is flesh!
>Go do some more recruiting. More hands and hooves never hurt.

>>27246070
>Other

"The simplest source of loot may well be troublemakers - attacking those who have themselves attacked provisioners working for either side will keep us from the ill-will of rebel or Imperial."

"I would beg you to consider that we find the dishonorable sort that preys on the fat merchants and their ilk, and prey on them ourselves. The loot may well be richer, but even if it is not we will not become foes of the warring sides quickly."

>>27246070
Rebels. They're weaker and have less land. We'll raid them while the imperials take the delightful route of bashing themselves against them in open combat. We'll come out of this with plunder and supplies and with far less losses.

With wins like that under our belt, we'll be able to expand the warband far larger.

>>27246145
>> Go talk to Mara. Who knows when you might see the likes of her again?
Yeah yeah! Attractive woman and political ally all in one!

>>27246178
gonna go with this
>>27246145
talk to mara, if savas decides to leave tonight this is our last chance

>>27246070
we should raid the rebels for now that way we can raid without the imperials trying to stop us and maybe evening rewarding us
>>27246145
recruit more men and visit Mara

>>27246178
Voting this. Consume bandit tribes. Absorb those who are weak into our band, destroy the stronger. Of course that's a bit more long term but still.

>>27246070

We should take out the rebels first, it'll warm us up to the Imperials. It's not a stretch to imagine that rebels may not be as combt ready as the alternative.

>>27246145

Talk to Mara. Could use to get a little more sway in the village social hierarchy while that still kinda matters.

>>27246194

Going for this.

>>27246179
>>27246178

And these.

>>27246070
> We should take care to attack the Rebels first.
Rebels shatter the people's faith in their government. They must be destroyed quickly so your nation regains prestige.
>>27246145
>>27246145
>Fuck backing down. We'll stay here and continue talking!

>>27246228

Ignore my first part. Fuck rebels, let's raid the raiders.

>>27246162
>>27246177
Even Genghis Khan considered political consequences before he started shit. Come on, guise.
>>27246202
>>27246179
The rebels are lead by arguably the best general around, I dunno about siding against them before we know anything about their shit.

>>27246145
> Fuck backing down. We'll stay here and continue talking!

>>27246070
>>27246145
>We should take care to attack the Rebels first.
>Fuck backing down. We'll stay here and continue talking!

>>27246178

Fund it. That's some Sun Tsu shit right there.

>>27246178
This, a hundred times this.

>>27246250
>>27246243
>>27246239
>>27246228
>>27246202
>>27246179
Why chose a side so early in the war? Let the banners kill one and another, while we gain power and swords to our name.
>>27246178
>This

>>27246145
>>27246178
This
and
>Go do some more recruiting. More hands and hooves never hurt.
We'll be leading the vanguard, so I want to have just as much power as any of the nobles.

>>27246286
Agreed.
My vote here >>27246179 is switched to attacking the bandits.

>>27246178
This

>>27246178
This and
>Fuck backing down

Rolled 9 + 3

>>27246145
>Go talk to Mara. Who knows when you might see the likes of her again?

You pause to think about this. If you attack either side, you foreclose your options. And if you attack both sides, that would be insanely unwise.

And then it comes to you, one option. 'In my opinion, if both sides are in a ferocious war now, there must be plenty of bandits, highwaymen and criminals who are preying on their supply lines, not to mention the many common folk living in the war-torn areas. Besides, those men would be rough Imperials, too undisciplined to join their armies, but too soft compared to us.'

Savas nods. 'We could take them. Easily. And we would gain credit from every side while doing so as well.'

'That is my consideration too, Brother.' Gotaras glares at you when you say that, but Savas laughs and claps his hands.

'Well! Looks like I not only got myself a hunter, but also a strategist! But I am... slightly drunk now, to be honest, and I think we should talk about this in more detail later.'

'When will we be setting off then... my lords?' You glance at the others.

'Whenever we gather our men, fine eagle,' one of them says dismissively. 'You should begin preparing your scouts as well. If our men run into an ambush, it will be on your head.'

'No one talks to Esalar like that,' Savas says sharply, but you decide you really should fuck off before there's another argument on your account. Working with this lot might be... difficult...

> cont'd.

>>27246474
It's hard to want to overthrow Savas, he seems like a real fuckin' bro.

>>27246531
We won't overthrow him. We will just lead and rise through the ranks because we're insanely competent.

>>27246474
>>27246531
Yeah, I'm going with the 'recruit qualified soldiers, break off and form our own band based on merit over noble birth with Sarvas at the head' plan.

After that we can recruit even more and run a band ourselves, allied with him.

>>27246567
not like Savas is going to want to deal with these inbred assholes' stupidity forever.

>yfw Savas means War in Turkish

polite sage

>>27246474

> Mara wins, 6:4. And why not?

You stand up and take your leave, and to your slight disappointment only about half of your men also stand up and ask to follow you. Ferho is among them, though, and one of him on a horse is worth at least three others.

Still, you politely decline their company, and head off towards the chief's dais, knowing where you want to go. Even despite your previous preparation, you feel a little bone in your throat when you see Mara laughing at a joke from one of the slightly drunk young men who's joining in the flirting party.

As you approach, however, Mara notices you and immediately turns her attention to you. This isn't purely because of your looks or stature; you are not quite the most beautiful of the youths. But once, when Mara was out trying to look for a mare she lost, she got set on by a few loose wolfhounds from a neighbouring tribe, and you were the one who cut them down and helped her find her mare. Other men have done good things for her too, naturally, but you are fortunate here.

'Esalar!' She takes her leave and weaves through the crowds to you, before gesturing to a quiet corner. Once you are there she lowers her voice. 'What's this I hear? About you and Savas setting up a raiding party? Is this true?'

'It... is, yes, Mara.'

'Is it merely a raid?' She gives you one of her stern looks, eyes narrowed. 'Or what?'

> Merely a raid, Mara.
> We are leaving for war. Which might take a while.
> Say something else. (Write in)
> Do something else. (No, not that. Write in.)

>>27246663
>We are leaving for war. Which might take a while.

Rolled 10 + 3

>>27246663
>Merely a raid, Mara.

it is one but it may grow into something more

>>27246663
> We are leaving for war. Which might take a while.

>>27246663
>We are leaving for war. Which might take a while.

>>27246653

Does it?! I modelled it after the word for 'Stag' in Hungarian, Szarvas.

>>27246663

"It may start as a raid, but with luck shall grow to more. It will be some time before we return."

>>27246663
We ride to put a stop to bandits attacking the innocents and we may be gone for a time but I hope to return with a trophy worthy of you

>>27246663
>We are leaving for war. Which might take a while.
Waifu in the first thread. Sigh internally.

>>27246736
I don't believe its a direct translation but it is of that origin.

>>27246772
Can't be a warlord without descendants. Gotta start early so they can join in on the fun of building it, so that they can appreciate the effort it took to make it. Few things worse than a spoiled child-king.

>>27246663
>Other
"We go to make names for ourselves and take loot for the tribe. We hunt outlaw and raider. But if it goes well we shall seek to gather enough for a proper warband. Why, did you fancy a change of scenery? I am sure it will be quieter here with less drunken young troublemakers like myself." And then grin slyly.

>>27246663
> We are leaving for war. Which might take a while.
I like the matter of fact way in which we state things. Let's not change.

>>27246833
gotta admit, i'm really liking the write-in options in this thread so far
>>27246772
why have a waifu when we could get a warrior woman?

>>27246833
Some nigga(s) in this thread make real good suggestions.

File: 1379286053828.png-(93 KB, 715x692, internet high five.png)

93 KB PNG

>>27246833
You. I like you.

This option please.

>>27246833
Don't say this. Too many words.

>>27246833
Not this option please.

>>27246891
>>27246907
angry samefag detected
you realize the sentences are short and to the point? it is phrased appropriately, you wordcount nazi

>>27246833
I like this option

>>27246891
>>27246907
Words for women are different from words for men. I can see this working for our character, plus it gives us another inroad to the chief. (she is the chief's niece right?)

File: 1379286277508.jpg-(15 KB, 640x427, ph-0.jpg)

15 KB JPG

>>27246772
>>27246742
>>27246741
>>27246727
>>27246711
>>27246695
>>27246686

You pause, taking a step back before her look, and then sigh.

'Yes, Mara. We are planning a raid - at first. But if the raid goes well...'

'Then you will continue raiding until it goes badly, I suppose?' She folds her arms.

'No. Then we will consider what else ought to be done. Raiding alone will not do, but it must do for a start. We might be a while yet within the Empire.'

There's a long pause, before she sighs. You didn't quite expect her reply, and perhaps it's a little disappointing she isn't more put off by your departure. 'It's for the best that you go with Savas, then. Tengari Himself knows what a pickle he might get himself into.'

'You look worried about other things as well,' you say, not knowing if you're being a little hopeful. But if you are, it doesn't really work either. Mara nods.

'I'm worried about what we will do if all the menfolk go to fight the Empire's wars, and the neighbouring tribes come after us. This is our first mostly peaceful year in six, Esalar, and you know there are not likely to be many more. Also, what will you do with your herds?'

Damn, you hadn't considered that! But at least there will be time. Taking your hesitation, Mara taps your shoulder and gestures to a yet quieter area - a copse of trees, near the stream which is feeding your tribe now. You walk into the deep, starlit night, and then she stops you and you feel something hard and cold pressed into your hand.

'It is dangerous for you to go to war, even if you are not alone,' Mara says, softly. 'You ought to take this.'

You look down. It's a kishabra - it's a kishabra you once said you liked, when you saw Mara playing with it. Her personal sidearm.

> Take it with thanks.
> No. Protect yourself with it.
> Other.

Also, you hear something from the copse of trees. Knowing feast behaviour, you think you know what it might be, but...

> Investigate?

>>27246833
>>27246849
>>27246856
>>27246878
>>27246890

> Agreed, and damn I didn't see this before posting. But keep it up, everyone.

>>27246969
>No. Protect yourself with it.

>>27246969
Hand her your own, a woman should never be defenseless, and that way we can help protect her and the tribe at least in spirit while we are away.

An exchange of favors if you will.

>>27247057
This

>>27247057
I like this its simple but meaningful

>>27246969
>No. Protect yourself with it.

Kind a gesture as it is, she raises a fine point about the villages safety. We ought to think about that, unless we plan on abandoning the village once our star shines bright enough to break off on our own.

>>27247095

Also, this
>>27247057

>>27247057
this seems to be the best option

>>27247057
Too sentimental, but I'm outvoted.

>>27246969
"I will offer you a trade, Mara." Unsling your blade and offer it for hers. "Or else keep it at your side for the tumult ahead. And a thought besides - why not consider a change of scenery? I am sure it will be quieter with less drunken young troublemakers like myself about." And then grin slyly.

"As for herds, there are still trustworthy families and traders about, and those making a new start I might gift them to. Herding is not the only way to live with honor, you know. Neither is staying in the village as a bride for whatever suitors don't leave for the war." She should be able to grasp that things might get sticky if all the good options take off and an arranged marriage becomes that much more attractive.

"But enough, your life is your own and there are things to attend to...I admit I am not sorely in need of company this evening, but yours would be more than welcome...what is that sound in the trees?"

>>27247057
Some dialogue to go with it.

"A woman should never be defenseless, take this, keep it safe, know that I will be back for it so keep yourself and our people safe as well so I can find it".

>>27246969
>>27246856
>why have a waifu when we could get a warrior woman?

and then I saw >>27247190

Yeah, okay, let's take her along if she doesn't want to stay home and marry the retarded young noble that stayed home because he wasn't fit to go to war for the sake of tribe politics.

>>27246969
"Everyone should have a blade. Take mine."

>>27246969
Can we leave and do more interesting things like speaking to the leaders of the tribe or planning our next move? This romance is boring.

>>27247262
this

>>27247190

> Well, well. An exchange of weapons, eh.

For a long while you hold the weapon in your hand, before Mara encourages you to draw it. It is a little... light for your tastes, but it is a well balanced blade indeed. And yet... giving a sidearm to someone is no small matter.

It takes you some moments to gather your courage, before you unhook your own kishabra from your belt and hold it out to her. She looks at it, then at you, and laughs.

'What, are we becoming sworn siblings? Ever two wolves, and ever two eagles, ever supporting the other, and ever-' she pauses. The rest of the oath is pretty much the marriage oath, actually.

'Or, oaths aside, something by your side for any tumult that lies ahead. And if you're holding it I trust I can find it when I return. What say you?'

She takes the sword from you, and then you ask what *she* is thinking of doing. 'If all the men are leaving...'

'Not a bad thing, in some cases,' she interjects.

'No, but quite bad in others I hope, then what shall you do? Why not consider, perhaps, riding somewhere? I know you can ride a horse, certainly.'

'Is this an offer for me to join you in war?' She grins. 'I... don't know. The tribe needs me. Uncle needs me as well. He is becoming a little forgetful these days, of small things.'

> Press the point.
> Go look at the trees.
> Take her back to the party like an upright nomad.
> Other.

> Also, state any plans for the rest of the evening. You can hear the music getting slower from the feast, which means things are slowly winding down. If there are no particular plans, you are going back to your tent to sleep.
> Next morning will be busy.

>>27247280
We are a peasant nothing in our tribe, even if we are the best warrior the tribe has ever seen, we won't be nobility. Marrying a relative of the chief gives us some of that noble status, and it should make working with the other noble leaders easier.

>>27247363

Makes sense. This, along with our friendship with Savars, gives us the status we need.

That said,

> Take her back to the party like an upright nomad.

For now. Then we go and recruit more.

>>27247359
Ask her to think about it for the night
As for the rest of the night spend it talking to Mara

>>27247359
Not sure we should take her along. If she gets injured or killed, we're going to be in a hell of a lot of trouble.

>>27247359
Look at those trees, this stupid ho, distracting us and shit

>>27247359
Trees

>>27247450
This, but investigate the sounds before talking to her anymore.

>>27247359
>Press the point, but not inconsiderately.

"Is there no-one else you would trust in your place to mind your uncle's affairs? I will not deny your skills are of help to him, but are they of no help to yourself? We have a duty to our tribe that goes beyond its affairs today. I see many ways to fulfill it. But there is time - tell me your thoughts in the morning, if you like."

What the hell is in those trees?

> Go look at the trees.

>>27247464
>>27247484
>>27247502
>>27247511
>>27247513

Now that Mara's made her concerns clear, you begin to wonder yourself if it would be a good idea to take her along. She can wave a sword in a dance, yes - and a mesmerising dance, too - but what good does that do in an actual fight?

'I am not sure that the chief has no one else he can trust to handle his affairs, Mara,' you say. 'Besides, considering the state of the Empire-'

'It's not *our* Empire, Esalar, no matter what they say.' Mara sighs. 'What they have may be in flames, and great big flames they are. But what we have is here. Most of it. All of it, even.'

'I understand. Perhaps if you'd consider it, still?' But then you point towards the trees, and Mara nods silently, knowing what you mean. You know what the act sounds like, of course, grunting and yelping; but that doesn't seem to be what's emanating from the copse of trees.

You steal closer to the copse, bending to hide among the long grass, and soon you are close enough to hear... words? What's this, pillow talk?

> Roll d20.

Rolled 6

>>27247649

Rolled 3

>>27247649

Rolled 12

>>27247649

Rolled 1

>>27247649

Rolled 3

>>27247666

>>27247649

Rolled 13

rollan

Rolled 10

>>27247649

>>27247723
Crit fail.
Whelp Mara's ded.

Rolled 79

>>27247754
Nah, we just get a boner from what we see in there and she gets disgusted with us, then she demands our execution. Such is Steppe life.

>>27247723

> Fuck!
> Also, the first five rolls are considered. Well done!

When you are about twenty paces, and still apparently unnoticed, you turn to see Mara getting on her hands and knees, and decide to do so as well. As you crouch, however, your hand descends right onto something scaly and hard.

The next thing you hear is a hiss, and knowing the kinds of snakes that can frequent a stream in summer - including the Green Hundred-Pace, named after how long you can run before you drop dead - you flinch violently, trying your best not to disturb the snake or your prey. Mara, however, doesn't see your move, which means you back straight into her.

'Wait, someone's there!'

Well, shit! You quickly throw yourself on the ground, just in time to avoid an arrow which whistles over your head and into the night. The second arrow that whistles, however, finds a mark, and you listen in horror as Mara gives a loud cry of pain and flops into the grass loudly.

'We got someone! We got him!'

'Go finish him off!'

'No, no!'

You can hear that there are maybe three or four voices from the trees. But - oh, fuck!

> Look to Mara!
> Look to the intruders!
> Run for help!
> Other!

>>27247895
Well fuck!
>Grab Mara and run, fuck this shit. Shout the alarm.

Rolled 18

>>27247895
Lift pretty princess
Do something that takes less then three secounds to help with arrow wounds
FUCKING BOOK IT

>>27247895
Look to Mara, and be ready to defend her. If she looks like she's dying and needs immediate help from a healer, we grab her and run. It's time for those sword and tactics skills to get put to use.

If we gotta kill a snake, we'll do that too.

And if they don't indicate who the fuck they are rather quickly we'll shout about being tribesmen, and not to start anything they won't want avenged by the tribe.

Rolled 6

>>27247895
shout the alarm and protect Mara

>>27247962
seconding
this covers everything neatly

>>27247895
Look to Marra, if she's mortally wounded give a terrifying war cry, then charge in and kill them all with a kishabra in each hand.

>>27248081
>>27247930
>>27247949
>>27247962
>>27247987
>>27248004

> Mara!

You quickly turn around, crawling, listening to the people in the copse talking to each other as you quickly make your way to Mara. Oh Tengari, oh Tengari Himself please do preserve her, partly because it would preserve you as well...

As you hook your arm around hers and begin dragging her along on your crawl, though, she turns to you. 'Esalar, what are you doing?'

'Well, you're wounded, I'm-' wait, she's speaking in a normal voice, without any indication of pain. You turn around and glance at her body, lying on her back. There isn't an arrow sticking out of her anywhere. 'Wait, what?'

She unhooks her arm and gets on her hands and knees, ready to crawl. 'You are a fool too! I'm off to raise the alarm. Keep them there.'

Panic over, you sit up a little and reach for your new kishabra. Well, as good a time to proof it as any, if you intend to proof it... a few options seem available.

> Direct assault.
> Resort to a subterfuge. (Of what sort?)
> Go raise the bloody alarm as well, there's four of them.
> Other.

>>27248174
Creep closer and see what we can hear. If Mara is unharmed AND raising the alarm, we should make the best use of our time and gather what we can from these unknown enemies. It may make all the difference for our future decision to charge in or wait for reinforcements.

>>27248174
Ruffle bushes that are spaced apart, move quickly and don't let them see us, throw stones. Make them think there are many more than just us.

>>27248174

> Resort to a subterfuge. (Of what sort?)

Pretend to be wounded as well. Yell that we should raise the alarm.

That would lure them to us.

>>27248174
But if you didn't catch the other arrow...

>>27248174
We've still got some light left. We should make use of mobility and cover, circle quickly if we can so we can figure out their position, maybe fuck up their line of sight for more arrows so they have to shift or risk hitting each other.

And then we strike. Preferably to wound, so THEY can be fucking around dealing with wounded comrades instead of us. Not to mention if we drag these assholes before the chief we'll be rewarded if they were spies or traitors.

>>27248256
It flew off into the night.
>>27248265
>light left
What, moonlight? Whatever.

>>27248242
>>27248244
>>27248253
>>27248265
>>27248294

You turn to make sure Mara's making progress towards the camp, and then begin crawling towards the river instead, wondering if they can see you. But from what they're saying to each other, quite loudly, it seems clear they're not keeping a lookout.

Their dialect of your language is a pretty rough one; it sounds like they're from the tribes to your south, closer to the Empire itself. By the time you reach another clump of bushes, almost within striking distance if you only knew where they were precisely, you come to realise what they're after.

'If we stay around the Imperial official runs!'

'That's even better! We can attack while they are running and drunk!'

Bloody amateurs, you think. It sounds, from what they're saying and from their panic, that they're likely to fuck off the moment Mara raises the alarm. That's... that's not a bad thing, except if you could perhaps capture one of them...

> Wait for the alarm to sound. Mara's well on her way, you can see her getting ready to up and run.
> Charge the bandits.
> Other.

>>27248483
>Charge the bandits.
No guts no glory.

>>27248483
Charge the bastards

>>27248483
Proof our most precious sword

>>27248483
Get the fuck in there and use those sword skills.

>>27248483
charge them bastards as soon as mara runs

>>27248483
The eagle spots a rat and dives.

>>27248587
>>27248504
>>27248516
>>27248544
>>27248563

Mara begins running, dashing from side to side very cleverly. It turns out to be required, since there's a cry of 'Oh wait, he's running!' and you hear the sound of another arrow being loosed, thankfully deep into the night.

Well, there's no risking another! If Mara gets hit in earnest... you draw your sword and emerge from the bushes.

> Roll 2d20. First five rolls are counted.

Rolled 2, 20 = 22

>>27248637

ATTACK

Rolled 3, 8 = 11

>>27248637

Rolled 9, 15 = 24

>>27248637

>>27248693
oh god no...

Rolled 7, 5 = 12

Rollan.

Rolled 14, 7 = 21

>>27248712
Actually roll some more dice instead of panicking.