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>>27332710

Sunlight. Blessed, golden sunlight shines into your eyes. But right after it comes the weeping and crying, the laments that you are all about to be dead.

You sit up to look, but even without looking you know it wouldn't be your warband doing all the blubbering. A steppe-son who doesn't expect to die on a raid has no business going on it in the first place. Ferho hurries to you, as much as he can with his arms and knees bound, settling in on your right as he helps you lean against a rock. It's hard and cold, but then so's everything.

'Brother. How do you fare? That weeping is driving me mad.'

Those Imperials are all huddled together now - even the men, even the young and middle aged men. Indeed, the Lapwings don't even bother tying them up. But then you quickly feel that your left shoulder does not hurt as much as it ought to. Neither can it move, which is the way it's supposed to be. You turn to your left to see Kimo, who bows when she catches your glance.

'Brother,' Ferho says. 'What should we do now? It's a good eight foot drop into this cave. We'll have the devil's own job trying to clamber out, even with two arms.'

'The envoy...' you mutter.

'They'll be here in a few days, or so I overheard.'

> We'll have to escape nonetheless, before the envoy comes.
> We wait calmly and explain ourselves to the envoy. Those in the right have nothing to fear.
> Perhaps we should ask the Imperials what to do.
> Other.

Character and Warband information below:

> http://pastebin.com/rbDTeur3

>>27332875
> Perhaps we should ask the Imperials what to do.
They may know how these envoys actually operate.

>>27332875
leave the imperials to imperials. we get out of here with our band. thats what i would like to vote but we cant climb with 1 hand so,
> We wait calmly and explain ourselves to the envoy. Those in the right have nothing to fear.

>>27332875
Ask the Imperials about these "envoys". What they do and how likely would they be to actully listen to the truth.

>>27332983

This.

>>27332983
>>27332987
>>27333011
>>27333035

> Good even, the lot of you!

You sigh and look upwards at the entrance of the cave right above your head. There are ways this could be done - you could begin thinking of plans, but nothing very easy comes to mind now. Just then one of the guards bends over the edge.

'Oh for the love of Tengari, we're not about to cook you! Quit squealing like pigs!'

From the reaction of the Imperials, the only bit they seem to have heard is 'cook you'. You wince as the sound penetrates into your skull, and get Kimo to bring over one of the leaders. It's the older of the two men with whom you've been working. You still don't know his name - it hasn't been very necessary - but he also seems like the most reasonable person. For one, he isn't crying, and seems just as composed as your people sitting against the wall, eyes half closed.

'Yes, sir, you called?'

'Tell me about the envoys. What do they do? Would they be willing to listen to the truth?' You look directly at him. 'After all, you will tell him the truth, won't you?'

> cont'd.

>>27333267
> What is this 60s sorcery?

'I will, naturally, sir.' He strokes his thin beard. 'If it is an envoy to a barba- I mean, a steppe-son tribe, then he will probably be a court official of some rank with a bodyguard. They go off to inspect the tribes, ensure there is no trouble between them and the Empire. May I say something?'

'Go on.'

'It seems, from the way we were arrested, that they knew of our arrival even before we headed to their camp. How might that be?'

Damn, he's right. And since you were in the tent having 'duty' recited to you, you know that even more firmly. Someone's betrayed you, and even maligned you. Could it be Savas, even?

'So will they listen to us?' You continue, driving that terrible thought from your mind.

'Depends. Often the only thing that speaks to an envoy is not a human tongue, but...'

Gold. Of course. You're hungry, and from Ferho's look you can tell he is as well. The guards above seem to be distracted.

> Endure and tolerate.
> Demand food and water.
> Demand to see someone.
> Say something to your men.
> Ask another question of the old Imperial.
> Other.

>>27333289
> Demand food and water.
they keep us in this hole, they should at least feed us.

>Scan through page
>Warlord title
>Reference to imperials
For a split second i thought this was Star Wars, Imperial Civil War quest.
Time to read up on this. Pseudo china and pseudo mongorrians?

>>27333289
> Demand food and water.

>>27333289
Demand food and water

>>27333481
>>27333433
>>27333377
>>27333445

> Pretty quick on the uptake. Welcome!

You struggle to your feet and, with Ferho helping you along, hobble to the centre of the cave where you can see the guards. Only three of them, to guard nearly 50 of you! That somehow seems even more insulting. Just as you're about to speak, you notice something.

Sentar. He's lying on the ground and not moving. 'He's still alive, brother,' Ferho says softly. 'They hit him very hard in the head. It might also be heatstroke.'

Spurred by this, you do not just speak, but yell. 'You! Hey! Even prisoners must have food and water! Give us food and water now!'

'You cur!' One of the guards says, and the other two laugh as he points his index finger directly at you as if you were a servant. 'Who're you to make demands like you're the lord of some sort?'

'How dare you call my Brother a cur!' Ferho struggles to break free but nearly falls over, which only brings more laughter.

'I dare! I call you a cur, and a plagued marmot, and a jackal!' He then spits at you, the gob flying right onto Sentar's tunic. 'And what will you do to me?'

> Roll d20, with penalty due to fatigue and anger (-2), for perception.

> Insult him! (Write in.)
> Be diplomatic and reason with him.
> Other.

Rolled 16

>>27333589
Diplomance

Rolled 7

>>27333589
these will not simply die. we'll make sure they live a miserable life.

>>27333589
"Me? I won't do nothing."
"It's your business if you want to sour your tribe's relations with the empire"
"Think about it, the envoy arrives and what does he find? He finds corpses of a robbed imperial caravan in your camp that conviniently starved to death."
"What would that look like to the outsider?"
"They were already starving when we reached the camp, do you think they'll last much longer?"

Rolled 6

>>27333589
> Be diplomatic and reason with him.

Rolled 18 - 2

>>27333589
> Be diplomatic and reason with him.

Rolled 17

>>27333589
DIPLOMACY HO!

This is not a good situation.

After we finish talking to the guard, have the imperials untie us and then we'll work on escaping.

I have doubts that an envoy is coming and even if so, the imperial envoy will probably just have them release the imperials and let us rot

>>27333767
>>27333750
>>27333640

> 16 - 2 = 14: success!

You are just about to curse the guard's grandmother - actually all his grandparents while you're at it - but then you notice something, or rather someone, behind the guards, standing some distance off so he is almost hidden. Almost.

He's watching. You have to calm yourself down, Esalar!

'I won't do anything, guard,' you say, swallowing hard, trying to keep your balance while nodding at the Imperials. 'I could sit here and starve to death. And they, they too could sit here and starve to death.'

'What-'

'And the envoy will come,' you straighten yourself a little, 'and see thirty of his dead countrymen. And that will earn you credit with the Empire, won't it? They would love to know how you treated the subjects of the Emperor himself, won't they?'

The guards glance at each other, then just as the designated insulter steps up to reply, the man who's been watching all along comes up and clamps a hand on his shoulder, pulling him bodily backwards. Only now do you get a good look of the intruder, with the sun shining to his left. He's a tall, rather thinly built fellow, handsome in an odd way, with narrow eyes and a prominent nose - the same features as the chief. Wait, was this the madman who tried to lash you yesterday? You didn't get a good look in...

But his voice tells you he isn't. 'Good man! Esalar, is it?' The next thing you know, he's thrown down a rope harness - just one. 'Come. You of all people should not be rotting in the pit. I would be glad to have you as a guest.'

Ferho glances at the harness, then you. 'You ought to go, brother.'

'I'll feed the rest of them, don't you worry! I know you care for them. On your account I shall too.' Well, that's a twist.

> Accept.
> Reject.
> Other.

>>27333867
>>27333849

> Apologies for not seeing your rolls. Still, since 16 was sufficient for success, no matter eh?

>>27333906
Accept.

>>27333906
>Accept

>>27333906
>Accept

>>27333906
>Accept.

>>27334126
>>27333973
>>27333990
>>27334110

> Accept

You hop towards the rope, and then the man suddenly pushes one of the guards down. 'Untie him, damn you!'

It's the same man who insulted you, and his breath stinks as he undoes your knots. You fight the temptation to sock him right there, but as you hobble and take up the harness, the weeping behind you is replaced with other sounds.

'Wait, he's leaving us!'

'Traitor! How could you!'

'You're abandoning us to the barbarians?'

Lifted up to the cave, you look at the thin man again, and he gives you a brief greeting embrace. 'I am Dokas. And you may recognise Hucan, who brought you into the camp.'

Hucan stands behind, hanging his head, and only nods when you greet him. Only now, outside the cave, do you realise something - you're actually outside the Lapwing camp, and indeed in a dominating position over it. The scenery from here is beautiful - the Hurulun winding left to right, the land green and lushly forested. Dokas beckons you to follow, and you do, until you reach a small wooden fortress.

Most of the steppe-son tribes have these little forts built here and there, in the hills, in case the refuge of horse and arrow prove insufficient. This fort looks pretty strong, and the few men in it greet Dokas enthusiastically. Before long, you are sat at a table, but your eyes are slightly glazed because all you can smell is the roast mutton.

'Dig in then, Esalar,' Dokas says, and gestures to the others to start as well. 'Before my wolfhounds eat the lot.'

Laughter. You look at the dishes. Damn.

> Eat. JUST EAT.
> Why are you doing this?
> Ask something else of Dokas. (Write in)
> Ask something of Hucan. (Write in)
> Other.

>>27334245

> Oh, before you consider - eating someone's food means, of course, that you accept their hospitality and are obliged to them.

> This need not mean anything... perhaps. But it's the reason why you're hesitating.

>>27334245
Ask why is he doing this and proceed to eat.

>>27334245
> Why are you doing this?
Considering every other person of tribe so far are dicks, it's a fair question to ask

Before I do, would you mind me asking why offer food to me of all people?
After the way the conversation went with the chief, I expected to be singled out yes, but for punishment not for a dinner invitation.

>>27334245
>>27334265
>Eat
eating their food and accepting their hospitality should mean we'll not be harmed under their roof and we dont intend to harm him for now(we couldnt do it even if we wanted to anyways)

>>27334274
>>27334337
>>27334450
>>27334453

You look at the food even as the 'wolfhounds' hack away at it with their daggers. There was once when you knew the Lapwings to be a virtuous, honest tribe; indeed, your father often sang their praises, and you visited their tent camp several times until his death. You've always been treated to a meal like this.

The chief must even be the same man! What happened?

'Not to your taste?' Dokas throws a bone on the ground.

'Why do you offer food and hospitality to me? Who are you?'

'I command the fort, of course. I'm the chief's older son.'

'I did not see you last evening.'

'As I said,' his voice becomes slower, 'I was commanding the fort. I only knew about all that when they dragged your lot up. You were fighting like a bound wolf, I assure you. And I thought, here is a man who knows not to relinquish his bones and his spirit.' He raises a toast to you. 'To bones, and to spirit.'

You hesitate, and then accept the toast and eat. By Tengari, this lamb is good - the juices oozing out as you slice, steam rising in the air smelling of cumin. You dip it in the herbs and seeds and chew it, tasting the gameyness, the blood and tender, chewy flesh. Before long you are savaging the hunk of meat just like everyone else.

> cont'd.

>>27334642

The lunch is just about over, the meat reduced to a portion of gristle that everyone agrees is better for the dogs than for them, when Dokas waves at you. You watch him reach for something under the table, tensing, but then he takes out Mara's kishabra - your kishabra - and pushes it across the table at you.

'A man of honour does not go unarmed,' he says. 'Honour is yours.'

Before you can reply, a rider runs in through the wide open front door. 'The younger lord is coming!'

The immediate response is a hubbub of activity. You turn around to see the man, with the same features but a square, powerful jaw, entering; he is well dressed, again holding a riding crop - but the other hand holds someone else whom he throws to the ground.

'Older brother!' He laughs, as what appears to be a young woman curls up on the ground. 'I brought you back the bitch who ran away.'

'Very much obliged,' Dokas smiles. 'Come.'

'And what's this mongrel doing here? My brother's senior guest, is he?'

Oh, damn, you are sitting in the guest's chair. Had Dokas manoeuvred you into this? You look up at Hucan, who is apparently Dokas' guard and who looks deeply ashamed this is happening, looking down and away.

> Wait to be told what to do.
> If he wants the seat, he should bloody well come and get it! You're armed now after all.
> Relinquish the seat of your own accord. It's rightfully his.
> Other.

>>27334711
>Sit and stare at the man.

>>27334711
>Relinquish the seat of your own accord. It's rightfully his.

>>27334711
> Relinquish the seat of your own accord. It's rightfully his.

>>27334760
I like this

>>27334901
>>27334760
>>27334774
>>27334821

He smirks, regarding you while stroking his riding crop. 'You know what they say about dogs, it's the runts who never know manners.'

For a few moments you stare right at the man who punched you in the shoulder, making your calculations. Surely it would be a matter of pride to remain here, and surely you were placed here - you have not usurped a place yourself.

You continue staring as the younger son advances on you, and Hucan steps up, already sensing trouble. 'So are you going to step aside, runt? Or should I make my point again because the last time I didn't actually stroke you with this?'

> Stand and walk away.
> Stand and stand your ground.
> Other.

>>27334774
>>27334821
doing that would be the same as relinquishing the guest right he has so recently offered, stay in the seat.

>>27334964

> Stand and stand your ground.

Well, what's he gonna do to us?

>>27334964
>Stand and stand your ground, talk to older brother
"hospitality rules will not be bounding me the moment he strikes me."

>>27334964
Stand and stand your ground, we are a guest, Dokas said so himself,betraying guestright is an absolutely enormous offense, and we're armed to do something about it.

Rolled 12, 7 = 19

>>27334964
Keep your seat, but be prepared for the strike

>>27335105
actually they will, we'll be within our guestrights to cut him down if he strikes us first, this is why we were armed.

>>27334964
Sit and keep staring

>>27335131
you obviously didnt comprehend that post you are quoting.

>>27334964
>Stand and stand your ground.

YOU SHALL NOT PASS!
>Stand thy ground

>>27335153
yes I did, the post I quoted said that he was releasinghimself from the rules of being a guest. whihc means he is declaring himself a non-guest.

Non-guests get killed when they fight back against the tribe they're in the middle of.

>>27335157
>>27335171
>>27335239
>>27335119
>>27335035
>>27335105
>>27335113
>>27335131
>>27335134
>>27335153

There's no need to say anything to the likes of this man. You continue staring at him, glancing at the tassels of the riding crop. Then you notice that those tassels are tipped with little bronze bits, gleaming as they swing.

What a nasty little cunt. Finally, you stand up from your seat, but simply stand there, keeping your stare. 'Lord Dokas, will you hold it against me if I defend my guest-right?'

'By Tengari, the two of you-'

The next thing you know your head is turned, and you can see the ground, then the sobbing woman, then the chairs before you topple over, breaking your fall just in time with your good arm so your head misses the stool.

'HUVALAS!' Dokas shoots to his feet. 'How dare you! He is my guest in my abode!'

'And how dare *you*, brother? Are you deaf, or are you simply being disobedient for the fun of it? Father said confine this man, not make him your fucking guest!'

And then the pain in your cheek comes. You haven't been slapped this hard - you haven't been slapped *at all* - since your father died when you were eleven.

'You are in my fort, Huvalas, and since Father has given me the right to this place-'

'Bollocks, you haven't the fucking right! You're simply a tenant, not a landlord! To think I brought the little whore back to you! I had half a mind to play her properly and whip her to death!'

You glance at the woman on the ground, looking at you with tear-stained eyes. Be slow to rage, Esalar. Be slow to rage. Be slow to rage. The eagle rages not. Be slow to rage...

> Remember the saying, dust yourself off and walk.
> Fight back.
> Remain supine and listen. Their conversation is... intriguing.
> Other.

>>27335299
>Remember the saying, dust yourself off and walk.

>>27335299
> Fight back.
Spoiled little cunt.

>>27335299
Stand up and listen. It is unbecoming to stay down after being smacked by a whelp.

>>27335299
>Fight back.

>>27335299
Let them finish talking first, then punch the fucker

>>27335370
Second.

>>27335299
Stand up. Do not rage. Patience.

>>27335370
This.

>>27335370
Third

>>27335370
>>27335388
>>27335417
>>27335418
>>27335407

>>27335386
>>27335358
>>27335352

Hucan runs over to your side, but you wave him away. He bows his head. 'Sorry.'

'You did nothing.' You lever yourself to your knees, then your feet, all the while making sure to mind the conversation between the brothers.

'By Tengari, Huvalas, do you know no restraint any longer? I was ready to welcome you both, and you have to turn this into a fist-fight. And last night? Did you think I have not heard of what you did?'

Rather unmindful of your continued presence, Huvalas folds his arms. 'And who gives a horse's tail bristle of what you have or have not heard? Does that dog deserve any better? He did give us a convenient excuse, though.'

'Arresting someone on rumours and hearsay is no way to run the tribe's affairs.'

'Well, you needn't fucking worry, because you won't be running the tribe! It's a damned good thing I didn't bring them up to yours, or you'd be using them as your army or something, wouldn't you? You really think I don't know what you're up to? To think I came up here to have lunch and maybe talk to you. I'm done here.'

Dokas says nothing to that. The younger brother turns around, goes up to the woman, and aims his foot squarely for her gut, eliciting a loud cry, before walking off. Only when the guards have closed the door does Dokas turn to you.

'I apologise for that. Hucan can show you your room. Or we could chat on the ramparts.'

> Go rest. This is a bit too much.
> Chat on the ramparts. There's things to find out.
> What about the woman?
> Other.

>>27335622
>Chat on the ramparts. There's things to find out.
This guy seems respectable. Let's talk.

Rolled 18, 11 = 29

>>27335622
Check on the woman, we are men of honor

>>27335622
>Chat on the ramparts. There's things to find out.
Need to talk about our men and food.

>>27335622
>> Chat on the ramparts. There's things to find out.

>>27335622
>What about the woman?

>>27335622
> Chat on the ramparts. There's things to find out.
We can ask about the woman too.

>>27335678
Why not both? Check on the women and then go have a chat on the ramparts?

"I think we have many things to talk about."
"But first, this woman needs help."

>>27335777
This

>>27335812
>>27335825
>>27335662
>>27335678
>>27335696
>>27335743
>>27335752
>>27335777
>>27335706

You turn around to look at the woman, who quickly raises a hand - a bleeding hand, you notice - to her face. Then you look back at Dokas. Who exactly is this woman to him?

'I would prefer to talk, good host, if you do not mind.'

'And why should I? Hucan, take care of Bena and ready the guest's room.'

He beckons to you, and soon the two of you are ascending the steps to the only tower of the fort, looking out over that same scenery. You make your first priority clear. 'Will you take care of my men as well? Now that I have offended your younger brother, he will surely-'

'I cannot take them out of the cave, if that's what you mean. But I can post my own guards there to watch them. And I can provide food and water for them. There's a clean spring that runs just within the walls, so we don't lack for water. Will that satisfy you?'

A single betrayal lasts in the mind. Having had your honesty rewarded so well last evening, it seems strange now that Dokas would be so... proper to you. But now that you have his word, why not? 'That is too kind of you, dear host.'

'Mm. Don't mention it. You were going to ask me things, I bet.'

He's sharp. And while you're blunt, you have been mulling for some time. There's quite a few things you can ask...

> Choose up to two of the below.

> Ask about the woman. Bena, is it?
> Ask about the 'rumour and hearsay'.
> Ask about the old chief of the Lapwings.
> Ask about why he's stationed here and the tribe is camped in the woods.
> Ask about the Imperial situation.
> Write in.

>>27335933
Ask about the woman and why he is here with the tribe in the woods.

>>27335933
>Ask about the woman. Bena, is it?
>Ask about the 'rumour and hearsay'.
>Ask about why he's stationed here and the tribe is camped in the woods

>>27335933
>Ask about the 'rumour and hearsay'.
That is important. Someone has been spreading lies.
>> Ask about why he's stationed here and the tribe is camped in the woods.

>>27332710
I just read the previous threads and all I have to say is goddammit, /tg/ did you really have to try and LG up a lowborn steppe nomad?

Really?

>>27336008
Ah whoops, didn't see the two question limit. Just take Ask about woman off mine then

>>27336037

What's LG?

Also, woman and rumour.

>>27336037
hey it worked for Conan

>Ask about why he's stationed here and the tribe is camped in the woods.

>Ask about the old chief of the lapwings

>>27335933
>Ask about the woman. Bena, is it?
> Ask about the 'rumour and hearsay'.

>>27336065
Lawful good, I assume

>>27335933
> Ask about the woman. Bena, is it?
> Ask about the old chief of the Lapwings.
> Ask about the Imperial situation.

>>27335933
The woman is none of our concern.
> Ask about the 'rumour and hearsay'.
> Ask about the Imperial situation.

>>27336067
I saw the pic and the name the first time, and I thought 'Oh hey cool, Cao Cao Quest.' Then I saw that /tg/ made a steppe nomad and I thought 'Oh hey, Genghis Khan Quest.' Then I read thread 2 and I thought 'Oh great, Shirou Emiya quest...'

Going Full Paladin sounds like something odd in something called 'Warlord Quest.'

>>27336158
Don't worry. We'll do some killing soon. Honor =/= justice.

File: 1379723667512.jpg-(122 KB, 550x413, scenery-along-the-yellows(...).jpg)

122 KB JPG

>>27335933

> Rumours, Wood, Woman (draw for the second)

'It's... not usual for someone to be permanently stationed at a fort,' you begin, softly, looking away from him. 'Nor is it, really, to be camped in the woods.'

'We're at war, Esalar, that's why.' Dokas smiles. 'And a lot of it is because of Huvalas, too. The favour of a father ruins a child like nothing else.'

'Whom with?'

'The Sparrows.' That's the other tribe across the Hurulun river; the assumption that they were friendly to each other was why you decided to try the Hurulun route in the first place. 'It was a dispute over herds, women, and a title. The Imperials, mind you, are pretty desperate to give away titles now. Titles cost nothing; the Empire is their everything. So there was no need to fight over that. But you know how we steppe-sons are.'

'Would that be the woman - Bena - that he brought in? One of those?' But as you ask it you're already pretty sure it's not. Bena isn't a very typical steppe-daughter name. 'As for the rumours and hearsay you were talking about, what was that?'

> cont'd.

>>27336158

> Let us not forget that Cao Cao's greatest enemy was Liu Bei. Who played most things pretty straight but was also intelligent and calm. A Paladin need not be a Fool.

'The rumours happened just two or three days ago, actually. There was a... come think of it, has the Empire levied your tribe's riders?'

'Of course it has. Haven't they gone all over? You could hear the desperation in their recruiter's voice when he asked us to fulfil our duty.'

Dokas frowns at that, but then nods in understanding. 'I see. So it was indeed them, then. Well, they passed by via the Hurulun route as well, and came by our camp. And it was then that one of the troops they levied, a noble, gave the chief and us some news.'

'Do you know who it was?'

'Gotaras. That's his name.' Son of a bitch! So he had left Savas' warband and joined the Imperials, and now...

'And what did he say? What is this rumour you were talking about?'

'Well, he pointed out that there were two other bands setting off from his tribe who would take the same route into the Empire, but that they were both rebels, and should be arrested and turned over to the Empire for execution forthwith. Huvalas and father have been waiting.'

The two bands - Savas, and you. You feel slightly lightheaded now, between the wind and that. 'And... what happened?'

'Well, you were the only band that came down. Who was in the other band? You look a little shaken.'

> Treat Dokas with honesty.
> Say something otherwise. (Write in.)
> Deflect the subject.
> Other.

>>27336386
"A brother."

>>27336386
>Say something otherwise. (Write in.)
Just tell him it was a friend of ours in the other warband, but explain that neither of us our rebels.

>>27336386
> Let us not forget that Cao Cao's greatest enemy was Liu Bei. Who played most things pretty straight but was also intelligent and calm. A Paladin need not be a Fool.

Liu Bei also spent most of the time wandering landless because of his LG adherence, not to mention his driving Shu to ruin when he found out that Wu killed Guan Yu...

>>27336386
> Treat Dokas with honesty.

>>27336526

Well at least we'd be used to wandering.

Treat Dokas with honesty.

>>27336428
>>27336431
>>27336552
>>27336575

'He is a friend of mine,' you say. Then, on second thought, 'rather more than a friend, in fact. A brother, I would say. And I must say that neither of us intended to join the rebels.'

'I guessed as much. Ah, those. Very much treasured. I take it all your men are the same, your brothers?'

You nod, and then another question you neglected to consider comes to you. What did that little monster mean when he said Dokas was up to something? You wonder if it would be worthwhile to ask Dokas.

He sees your hesitation, meanwhile, but he seems not to have caught the correct drift. 'Are you thinking again about Bena? Don't worry, she's not my wife or concubine or any of the sort. A servant of mine who ran away. Would you like her to take care of you instead?'

That, and the smile that accompanies it...

> Yeah, sure. Only taking care, of course.
> I am fine, thank you.
> Other.

Also:

> Ask the question.
> Keep it to yourself, man. Why ask if someone's plotting something? Who'd say yes?
> Other.

>>27336718
>I am fine, thank you.
>Ask the question.

>>27336718

Accept.

And don't ask.

>>27336718
>I am fine, thank you

>Ask the question

>>27336718
> I am fine, thank you.
> Ask the question.

>>27336718
>Other
She is not what weighs on my mind
>Ask the question

If he is planning something, we would like to help.

Rolled 16, 2 = 18

>>27336738
This

>>27336718
> I am fine, thank you
> Ask the question.

>>27336843
>>27336836
>>27336828
>>27336825
>>27336738
>>27336829

'I am fine, host.'

'Are you sure? It is a strange man who desires no companionship.' Mara does flash in your mind briefly. But then Mara is about six days away, and doing fine. They better bloody well be doing fine.

'I'm afraid other things weigh more on my mind at present,' you flash a smile.

'You should smile more. It makes you more like the amicable person you truly are. And you really are amicable after all, aren't you?'

'When Huvalas said you were up to something...' you stop as Dokas glances at you sideways. 'Pardon my rudeness.'

'No, not at all. I was just going to ask if you would be willing to help. Or indeed, if your warband was willing to help.' He beckons, and you follow him towards the gatehouse once more.

> cont'd.

>>27336962

As you walk, farther away from the guards, into the single room on top of the gates, Dokas begins talking, softly and slowly unless his previous voice. Previously, perhaps, he was saying and answering things truthfully; now he is speaking of thought, of plans.

And because of that, you are listening.

'My father has been doting on his concubines, and on Huvalas, far too much. He says he will split the herds when he dies, but I know he has other ideas from all those Imperial trappings he has been gathering. He is going to do what they do and designate an heir. And it won't be me.'

Ah. That is pretty much enough for you to see what is happening. 'And you, host, will... demand your inheritance, so to speak?'

'That and no more. Father has two sons; one or the other of us may be the leader, but the herds must be split the right way. I intend to use what men I have to attempt to ask that when the envoy comes along, but I only have about 50 to 60 at my disposal. If I had even your few men - tough as they are - it would be of great aid to me.'

Huh. Imperial inheritance - actually, you can see its advantages. But then if the inheritance of the Lapwings was to go solely to Huvalas... just the thought of that makes you uneasy.

> What say to this request?
> Naturally, what you say will determine Dokas' response. Though since he's already taken you as a guest, he will not harm you.

>>27337075
"k"

>>27337075
Anything to ensure Huvalas doesn't attain too much power.

>>27337075
Our men will stand with his and if we're really fortunate the whole thing will go down without bloodshed

>>27337075
join him in his cause

>>27337075
Tell him that our men follow us and that we would be glad to aid him. Also, tell him that there may be those who support him but are afraid to speak out.

This will most likely end in bloodshed. There are only two heirs and only want can inherit.

>>27337225
>>27337142
>>27337127
>>27337103

You turn to look at Dokas. A strange man, actually - slight stoop in his figure, thin arms. He certainly does not look like much of a warrior.

Which would be a good thing. If he decides to use diplomacy to resolve his little feud, and merely needs you and your men to puff up the numbers, then you could earn credit for little effort. Certainly, were he to attempt combat with his brother, you know who would win, worse luck.

'So what say you, my new guest?'

'I will do what I can, host,' you say, placing right hand over heart and bowing slightly. 'After all, this endeavour is a worthy one, considering Huvalas' kind.'

'Excellent!' Dokas laughs and claps you on your shoulder. 'Now, if you will excuse me. I have to go soon, but you know how to go to the rooms.' He gestures to a wooden building on the other side of the fort. It is now afternoon, and as you descend the stairs, you can see people carrying back empty plates.

'These were for the prisoners,' they tell you. The plates are certainly clean and greasy. That's good. That's good to know. You wonder where Hucan is, or Bena.

> Retire to your room for the evening and make plans.
> Do something else before night falls and you retire. (Write-in)

>>27337310
>Retire to your room for the evening and make plans.

>>27337310
>Sneak out to make sure our men really got fed, just in case Dokas is playing us for a fool.

>>27337310
>> Retire to your room for the evening and make plans.

Rolled 10, 5 = 15

>>27337310
Check on your men before retiring, remind them this is not betrayal

>>27337361

Oh this is good, second

>>27337392
This.

>>27337504
>>27337345
>>27337361
>>27337363
>>27337392
>>27337405

You leave the fort, and in the chill, crisp afternoon air - the stones and earth mottled with sunlight through leaves - you make your way back to the cave where you were just this morning. It is there that you run into Hucan, just as you're thinking of where he's gone.

He nods when he sees you, and despite the glares of the other guards, you are allowed to look into the pit. What you see is encouraging. Ferho and the others still have bound legs, but their hands are now untied.

Also, Sentar is awake! He looks at you with slight discomfort, wincing as he turns his head. 'B... brother.'

'Sentar! Have you had food? All of you?'

They nod. You look especially at the two underfolk, and Kimo nods, large eyes fixed on you. That's good. 'Brother, where are you now?'

'I am trying to ensure you are properly treated,' you say, omitting the whole thing about envoys and swift executions. Or indeed of puffing up numbers and what basically amounts to a coup d'etat. 'I shall leave here with you. Not alone. Do you understand?'

'Yes, sir!' They reply, so loud the tribal guards jump.

> Talk to Hucan.
> Talk to Huvalas' guards.
> Back to the room. It's getting nippy, but all the prisoners now have proper clothes.

>>27337564
>Back to the room. It's getting nippy, but all the prisoners now have proper clothes.

>>27337564
> Talk to Hucan.

For time reason I find him to be prime recruitment material.

>>27337605

I'm going with this, actually.

>>27337739
>>27337605

You go to Hucan, who leads you away. 'You should not be here, that would be seen as taunting the younger lord and his men.'

'With respect, Hucan, I could not care less what they think of me. But my men, those I care about.'

That makes him step back and look at you with a little skepticism. 'Are you truly that attached to them? In a warband?'

> Of course. Would you like to be in such a band?
> They are the base of an enterprise. It is merely prudent to treat them thus.
> Will it hurt if I seem like I am attached to them?
> Other.

>>27337787
Would you fight alongside those you didn't love? Trust strangers to keep you alive? Of course I am attached to them.

>>27337787

We're trying to recruit him aren't we?

> Of course. Would you like to be in such a band?

Should we be recruiting? He's our ally's man now.

>>27337787
Is it not the same among your bands?

>>27337852
>>27337882
These. Just plant the seed of dissatisfaction.

>>27337787
To me each and everyone of them are my brothers so I would do anything to ensure they are safe.

I am always on the lookout for people with potential though and if you find such a thing interesting you might also become a brother of our band

>>27337950
Comin' on a little strong, gotta buy him dinner first

>>27337901
I agree

>>27337852
>>27337869
>>27337882
>>27337901
>>27337950

You return the look directly, considering your words for a few moments before letting them out.

'When you fight with someone, you trust them with your life, and theirs with you. If one is not attached to his men, then what is the point of a band?'

'What is the point indeed,' is his reply, immediate and almost a little sad. Huh! Hucan looks down at his hands and up. 'You are fortunate, then, to have a band like this.'

'And you don't? I find that hard to believe.'

'I would protect the Elder lord against all comers. But I am not sure if that will last. Will you fight alongside your brothers even if all of you fought for someone unsavoury?'

'Do you fight for someone unsavoury then?' Dokas is the only person he could be referring to, right? Or perhaps he meant the chief and Huvalas. Those two are definitely the opposite of savoury. 'Well. I wish to enter the Empire eventually. So if you would join me...'

'The envoy is coming the day after tomorrow, I hear.' Hucan smiles, but it is a faint one. 'So we may know better then. But for these two days, best of luck to you.'

You're not sure if that was a yes, a maybe, or a no; slightly confused, you go back and are led to your room. Opening it makes you even more confused, since Bena is there, sitting in the Imperial style on her calves and ankles and preparing something which smells... very nice. It turns out to be a copper pot.

'Oh, sir!' She turns and bows. 'Your foot-water was just ready.'

'I remember saying I am find with being taken care of. I was not trying to be coy with Dokas when I said that.'

'But Lord Dokas has sent me anyway,' she said. 'Please, sit down. You are the guest, sir.'

> Accept the kind treatment. (You haven't ever had a foot wash before. Not a herbal one.)
> Insist on not being served.
> Have her out of the bloody room.
> Other.

>>27338146
>Accept the kind treatment. (You haven't ever had a foot wash before. Not a herbal one.)
Why not?

>>27338146
Herbal foot wash is fine but no happy endings

>>27338146
>Insist on not being served
Comfort makes men weak. Full ascetic.

>>27338146
As long as it stay a herbal food wash I don't see a problem.

File: 1379731627041.jpg-(197 KB, 760x596, feralchic.jpg)

197 KB JPG

>>27338217

>>27338146
> Insist on not being served.

>>27338146
> Insist on not being served.

>>27338146
>Accept the kind treatment.

>>27338146

Accept.

>>27338434
>>27338396
>>27338263
>>27338190
>>27338172

Well... the pot's ready, and so is the hot water, right? You scratch your head. You might as well. Even you can smell the stench of your feet as the boots and wrappings are removed - and you just changed those wrappings, too - but Bena does not seem to mind as she dips your feet in the warm water.

Soon her fingers are working over your left foot, the thumbs running along the soles, and being unused to this you tense and twist as the sensations - pain, then tickles, then pleasure, then pain - shoot up your leg. 'Hold steady, sir.'

'Ah. I'll try.' You don't succeed. A bolt of pain kicks you in the foot, and you gasp. 'Tengari that hurt! Why are you laughing?'

'Oh! I beg your pardon.' Bena smiles. 'Sir, do you occasionally get indigestion and stomach issues?'

'Now and again. How do you know?'

'Here,' she presses, and again the pressing, blunt pain wracks you. 'That's the stomach. It's weak. You must take care, sir!'

'I will *kick* you if you do that again,' you growl, but then you remember what happened to Bena this morning. That might not be the best choice of works. She falls silent, and you look down at her arms; the rolled up sleeves expose skin crossed with welts, and in some places wounds where the whip had bitten into skin.

> Ask about her running away.
> Ask about her origins; she's clearly not a steppe-daughter.
> Talk about something else (write in).
> Just enjoy in silence the OW OWWW ahhh OWWW

>>27338520
>Ask about her origins; she's clearly not a steppe-daughter.

>>27338520
>Ask about her origins; she's clearly not a steppe-daughter.
>Ask her about Dokas

>>27338520
>Ask about her origins; she's clearly not a steppe-daughter.

>>27338520
>> Ask about her origins; she's clearly not a steppe-daughter.

We need to ask about the two brothers.

>>27338520

> Writing.

>>27338789
>>27338763
>>27338713
>>27338622
>>27338590

You look at her face, which thankfully seems unharmed by the whip. A moment later she glances up as well. 'Yes?'

How do they tell? 'I was just wondering where you came from. With a name like Bena, you're not from the steppe evidently. Don't press THERE.'

She presses regardless. 'It will get better, sir. I came from the southwest of the Empire, the Four Rivers Province. I was... well, my father used to be the prefect who ran the North Rivers Prefecture.'

You try to remember what little you know about the Empire's structure. What was it they used to say? A clan is a hamlet, and a tribe is a county. And a prefecture is, what, 10 counties? That's *huge*. 'Then what happened?'

'When I was 11, he was accused of crimes by a faction at court and exiled. The rest of us were arrested and then auctioned.' She says it as if talking about another person's life, but her hands have stopped on your feet. 'The swallow grieves over the cold nest, and its chick is trapped in the barn in winter. That would be me.'

> What say to that?

>>27338925
She's a slave huh?

Tell her that her father was a fool, and weak.

Tell her that if such a thing had happened on the steppes their fate would have been far worse.

>>27339044
>Being cruel for no reason.

No, don't offer pity or feel sorry for her, but unnecessary cruelty is stupid.

>>27338925
Stare sternly into the middle distance like a proper stoic steppe-son

>>27339068
> No, don't offer pity or feel sorry for her, but unnecessary cruelty is stupid.

I don't see how it is unnecessary or cruel.

She's weak if she thinks her lot in life is harsh. Knowing that things could be worse is the only comfort she should be given.

>>27339044
Don't do this.
>>27339081
Second. After staring for a bit ask who owns her, then we can segue the conversation towards Dokas and Huvalas.

>>27339119
Sounds like a plan

>>27339106
Dude her lot is harsh, we don't need to rub it in when we can just be large and silent like usual

We all need to read The Art of War to do this right.
http://classics.mit.edu/Tzu/artwar.html

>>27339133
>>27339119
>>27339081
>>27339044
>>27339106
>>27339134

You do have to try very hard not to show too much emotion, whether pity for Bena or disgust. It is a harsh outcome. Of course, there are power struggles in the steppes; and of course bad things happen to the losers. But it is one thing to die fighting for one's share with a sword in hand, and the knowledge that familial obligations will be honoured.

It's another thing when someone writes a warrant for your head, and takes out your entire house while you're at it. You stare at the door of the room for a few moments before looking down. Perhaps you were expecting her to be crying? But Bena isn't; she continues rubbing your feet.

'So who is your owner?'

'The chief of the tribe, naturally. But for now I work with Lord Dokas.'

'And you attempted to escape Dokas?'

'It-' she looks down. 'It isn't like that. One day, and soon, the chief... and if all his property go to a single heir, I will be serving Lord Huvalas instead.' She shudders. 'He... he enjoys women. And he enjoys lashing. As you can see.'

Now *that* is a bit harsher still.

> What was it exactly that you wanted to ask about Dokas and/or Huvalas?
> Or you can stop the massage and go to bed. It's late, and your feet are comfortably... comfortable.
> Or do what you want.

>>27339260
I think we know most of what we have to at this point. Let's get some sleep

>>27339260
Time to sleep.

>>27339260
Sleep, but make sure to dismiss her.

>>27339260
Why are we such a soft-hearted pussy?

Even Liu Bei wasn't that soft.

Send her away and sleep.

>>27339260
>What was it exactly that you wanted to ask about Dokas and/or Huvalas?

>>27339346
>>27339340
>>27339324
>>27339312

'Lord Dokas told me to stay with you,' Bena says, when you ask her to leave. As a compromise she moves to the far end of the room, near the entrance, where she puts up her bedroll. Well, if she has to be in the same room...

It is a sound sleep that you have, and by the time you wake up Bena's gone and Hucan is knocking at the door. 'It's Lord Dokas. He is about to free your men.'

Wait, what? You follow him across the square. He is saying nothing, and you wonder if you should ask him about what's going on, as well as the offer you made last evening. But then a noise - a loud *kuaaaang* - comes from the gate, and you look over to see people moving a load of heavy instruments - gongs, mostly, and drums - onto a horse cart.

> Ask about what's happening.
> Ask about Dokas' plan. So quick?
> Ask about your offer of employment.
> Other.

>>27339497
"So, its all coming to a head today is it?"

>>27339497
>Ask about your offer of employment.

>>27339577
Second.

>>27339606
>>27339577
>>27339551

> 2 or 3 more posts, then I shall sleep. It's like 5am here now.
> Thank you all for playing! @Stratocumulus1 for next quest time. I probably will run over the weekend, but it'll depend on life.

'So,' you look over to him, feeling the gravel crunching underfoot. 'Is it all coming to a head now?'

'Soon, sir.'

'And are those instruments being shipped down for the envoy then? Tomorrow, you mentioned?'

'Yes. The envoy's arrival will be the best time for Lord Dokas to lay out his plan, and to demand a proper succession in our tradition. In fact, later this afternoon, there will be a proper festival in the tribal camp; and there will be some competitions here to choose those who will go and escort the envoy back here.'

All very well planned - though how many people are planning, and whether their plans are the same, there is no telling. You turn to Hucan. 'About last evening's little chat. If things will come to a head soon, then perhaps you should decide soon as well?'

Hucan pauses. You are about fifteen paces from the door, and he closes his eyes briefly, considering his options.

> Roll d20. If you can come up with persuasive arguments, bonuses will be added. If not, your natural persuasion skill is 0 (neutral).

Rolled 10

>>27339794
It's clear for anyone to see he's unhappy with his lot in life. He yearns for real brotherhood. We should appeal to that yearning, promising him that even though he's not of our tribe, if he joins with us he'll be as close as any of our brothers.

Rolled 17

>>27339794

Use that line that our man told us. No amount of money buys a brother. And if he's willing to be a brother, then that's it.

Rolled 11

>>27339794
Appeal to freedom also. His tribe has become a servant of the empire, and the empire does not care for the steppe-sons.

Rolled 20

>>27339794
Hucan clearly is a warrior, yearning to ride out and live the life of real steppe nomads. Sitting around in castles is a thing to do for weak, sobbing Imperials. Remind him of the good old days of raiding, and of the feeling of a strong Horse between your legs.

>>27339952
>>27339931
>>27339913
>>27339863

> 20 + 3 (owing to Hucan's personality) = success!

'Is there a reason I should join you?' Hucan says.

'Or rather, Hucan, is there a reason you should remain here? If Dokas' plan should not work, who will you be left to support?' As you say this, Ferho's words to you when you asked him to join suddenly spring to mind, and you smile. He sees you smile and raises an eyebrow.

'What are you considering, sir?'

'Nothing, except the price of my brothers.' You nod. 'And again I realise I cannot buy them. I cannot buy the life of war with them - nor the danger - nor the freedom. Those are not bought, but chose are chosen. And I am offering you this choice because I think you make a good brother.'

Hucan's eyes open, and are moist. He dabs at them with his hand, and then turns to you. 'Once Lord Dokas has his inheritance, you will have yours. Not before. But directly after.'

Well done, you.

> You gain great experience in persuasion.
> Cont'd.

Rolled 20

"Assuming things go well, I'm sure lord Dokas would happily oblige me a soldier or two if just asked. There's honor in duty, but there's no shame in freedom, least of all for a steppe-son. All I ask is you don't regret your decision."

>>27340041

> Damned typos, I *am* exhausted. Pardon me.
> Last post today. Choices will be considered at next session. Thanks once again for playing!

After Hucan makes his decision, he smiles slightly as he shows you into Dokas' log cabin. It is a large, airy space - mattress on one side, arms and tools scattered around. And right in the middle of it, next to a pile of embers, is the man himself. Hucan retreats as he greets you.

'Esalar, you are a good and punctual man. So. How was Bena?'

'Her foot massage was very skilled. And I slept immediately and soundly afterwards,' you say.

'A man of restraint, too. Now let me show you my plan. You know that today, many of the military men in the tribe will be gathering here to test their archery, swordsmanship and other skills, to be selected for the envoy's escort. It is an honour, so many will come to fight.'

'I see.'

'And down at the Lapwing camp, they will be celebrating and getting ready to receive the envoy tomorrow. Food, drinks, the lot.' Dokas waves. 'Clearly, you will have no part in that. What you will have a part in - will be either one of two actions.'

You nod, without speaking, feeling a certain tension in your gut.

'Once the gathering of warriors is underway, you will go to the cave, disable the guards, and free your men. Then you will have a choice of where to go. You could either assist us by staying in the fort to contain the warriors, or moving down to the Hurulun to patrol it and keep an eye out for the envoy, or for the Sparrows. Or, indeed, you could join the envoy's long-range escort. What say you?'

You consider the two options, but honestly you are unsure that the advantages and disadvantages are clear at all. Damn. There's nothing to go on.

> Join the fort garrison, contain any possible trouble
> Join the patrols of the Hurulun, watching for the Sparrows.
> Join the envoy's escort, shadowing their entourage.
> Give a suggestion.

>>27340237
The envoy.

>>27340237
> Join the fort garrison, contain any possible trouble
we dont want to take part in their fight against another tribe. andif we jon the envoy, there is a high chance someone will see people who should be prisoned escorting the envoy.

>>27340237

Seconding the fort. Make sure not to get into fights.

>>27340237
> Join the fort garrison, contain any possible trouble

>>27340237
Go to the envoy, if we can get to him first, we could perhaps get him to see our side of the dispute before he meets the chief and his little shit of a son.