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You turn to see that Chryssa is blowing some of the stone dust off of Profectus' arm. She's shaved quite a bit of the excess off, to the point you can actually see the glow of whatever his arm is made up of roiling underneath. He can obviously move his arm much easier now. You also note fault lines carved loosely in the same places muscles would be tensed. It would look much more natural, had Chryssa not included more muscles than actually exist in any arm you've ever seen. Seemingly satisfied with her handiwork, she nods her head and slides her dagger back into the voluminous sleeves of her robes.

You pass Chryssa the mace as your little band starts to pack and mount up. “I'll teach you a little Earth magic so you can use it, that's what we'll start off with when we begin your training.” You assure her, and she nods. “Good, I was planning on approaching you once we reached the city, but I am glad you remembered.” She sounds more natural, less monotone, than than she usually does. Perhaps she's warmed up to you? Then again, maybe she's just more comfortable wearing a mask. It would be hard to say exactly.

Profectus claps you on the arm in a comradely fashion. “Listen, you can consider the falcata my portion of the loot. It probably would've cost more than my share after we sold everything anyway. Besides, you've been alright guy to work with so far. Hope you wouldn't be just violently opposed if I tagged along a bit further?” You shake your head. “Of course not, Profectus! You've been a great help, I would never have gotten past that generator had you not shown me how to use this armor. Travel with us as long as you like.” He nods, and starts the arduous process of wedging himself between the command construct and Fulvia's head. You and Chryssa mount your respective guar and wait for him to situate himself before setting off.
>(1/2)
>Also, map. Might (probably will) change at a later date, but for now this is it.

File: 1394825263264.jpg-(3.41 MB, 3000x3967, Anthus.jpg)

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It isn't long before you reach Anthus, Sadik must have just been leaving to have met you only a few miles from the city gates. The guards, understandably, stop you to ask what the hell the giant, vaguely dog-shaped golem with blades protruding from its forearms is and whether or not it was going to hurt anybody. You explain that it's merely salvage from an old ruin and you intend to take it to the Academy to have it assessed. They accept your explanation, but recommend you hurry on to the Academy, lest you disturb the populace.

>Well, lets follow their suggestion then. No sense in causing a panic.
>Lets find a nice cushy inn, relax a little bit, then head up to the academy.
>Lets shop, what could possibly go wrong?
>Write-in

>>30834219
>>Well, lets follow their suggestion then. No sense in causing a panic.

this

Also, you never offered the magic books we finished to Sadik to see if we get better price then the Academy.

>>30834219
>>Well, lets follow their suggestion then. No sense in causing a panic.

>>30834219
>Lets find a nice cushy inn, relax a little bit, then head up to the academy.

>>30834253
Didn't seem all that popular a suggestion, if I recall correctly. Got mentioned a few times in passing.

>>30834219
>Writin' for to the academy.

>>30834322
>Didn't seem all that popular a suggestion, if I recall correctly. Got mentioned a few times in passing.

fair enough, though I don't see why few simple lines of offering the thing and getting a price would be hard to include even if the suggestion wasn't that popular.
Unless you dreaded a lengthy haggling session.

Speaking of haggling. I would be the first person to advocate to grab all the opportunities we can but, seriously, the thing we did with Sadik was downright criminal.
I think it is better to keep a good relation with him, we shouldn't have haggled /that/ much.

>>30834431
Not our fault we rolled critical successes.

>>30834431
It was fun, tough. we shouldn't haggle for everything because that would be boring quick, but a good session of hilarious haggle after a dungeon run seems like the icing on the cake to me.

>>30834502
True, but didn't we use like 8 vys to turn a regualr success into crit one?

>>30834507
I just hope it will not affect our future dealings in any way.


Also, I'm disappointed that the players took the quest he offered. I thought this was dungeon delving, tomb raiding type of quest. We are probably going to spend like half a dozen of threads doing social shit and in the worst case scenario we will have to resort to thievery.

File: 1394826717154.jpg-(367 KB, 1110x1366, The Academy of Anthus.jpg)

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You turn Al Gasreed towards the nearest street that seems to lead up to the high towers and imposing walls of the Upper Quarter. You're not terribly familiar with the layout of this city quite yet, but logically speaking as long as you keep heading up you'll eventually reach the walls. It takes some cutting through alleyways and swerving through choked thoroughfares, lots of staring, gasp, and the occasional shocked scream too, but eventually you make it to the great iron portcullis and the two, vaguely annoyed looking, men standing guard.

It takes some digging around in your saddlebags, but eventually you pull out the pass they'd given you on your previous trip to the Academy. They look it over, and tear it in half. You're about to ask them what the hell they think they're doing when instead they hand you a new pass, this one a slightly different shade of red than your previous pass. You're somewhat wary, but they just motion you forwards.

Well, no sense being paranoid about it. You spur your mount through the arched gateway and your companions follow. This particular gate seems to have left you only a few blocks away from the great domed profile of the Academy. As you pull up to the gates, the two guards lower their pikes in front of the ornate iron entrance. They must not be the same two you saw previously.

“State your business here.” They demand brusquely.

>You just want to see about bartering for some books and magical items, perhaps getting a consultation on artifacts.
>You were hoping to find quarter in the academy for the next few days, as a foreign Vatis.
>Tell them you're a friend of the Archmagos.
>Write-in

>>30834575
well if I remember correctly, we will pass as dungeon crawler so we will probably go questing to gain his approval.

>>30834431
It wasn't that bad, no merchant will fault a guy for haggleing

>>30834601
>>You just want to see about bartering for some books and magical items, perhaps getting a consultation on artifacts.
>>You were hoping to find quarter in the academy for the next few days, as a foreign Vatis.
>>Tell them you're a friend of the Archmagos.
all three

Was their w change in management?

>>30834601
>>You were hoping to find quarter in the academy for the next few days, as a foreign Vatis.
then
>>You just want to see about bartering for some books and magical items, perhaps getting a consultation on artifacts.

Hopefully being in Academy among students and teachers will make teaching Chryssa even more effective

>>30834601
>>You just want to see about bartering for some books and magical items, perhaps getting a consultation on artifacts.
>>You were hoping to find quarter in the academy for the next few days, as a foreign Vatis.
>>Tell them you're a friend of the Archmagos.

>All of the above
Writin'

>>30834601
>>You just want to see about bartering for some books and magical items, perhaps getting a consultation on artifacts.
>>You were hoping to find quarter in the academy for the next few days, as a foreign Vatis.

>>30834601
Show them our pass?

>>30834659

Agh, somehow you reminded me of how we went for Small Unit Tactics instead of Strategy.

Such a waste... valuable, yes, but the military secrets that forged an empire are priceless.

Ah well, being an adventurer is more fun.

>>30834704
Small unit tactics fit us better than large scale.

But we shouldn't even have chosen that book, we should have done Earth or Fire.

>>30834704
>>30834726

Personally, I think it was stupid to choose magic training options at all.
We are primarily a Vatis, we would have gotten those skill anyway. Hell, getting novice rank in any category is a piece of cake for us. Getting to the next level is also easy.
But becoming better at combat? That is much harder because we never spend time training for it (and why should we when we can use that time to improve our magic?) and because we are not trained for it.

I think it was a missed opportunity to remove some of the weaknesses we had.

You hold up a hand placatingly, while reaching into your bag to flash the pass those guards gave you. They seem nonplussed, which at least means your pass doesn't label you some filthy lowlife or something. “Relax! I'm a friend of Sur-er, Archmagos Megalos. I'm a Vatis from Pidjata; just here to sell some books, do some research, and perhaps stay for a few days while I'm in town.”

The guards promptly jerk their pikes away from the entrance, which slowly swings itself open. The grounds beyond are as lush and green as you remember them, with apprentices sheltered in the shade of trees reading or talking amongst themselves, while Vatis in proper robes rush to and fro. You're about to spur your guar when the guards once more interrupt you. “The construct will need to be confiscated and put into containment, it will be released to you when you leave, and you can use our facilities to examine it.”

>Agree, you figure an Academy run by one of your own is one of the few places you can trust with this.
>Agree, but snatch Fulvia before you let them have it. You have no idea just how they intend to deactivate it, and you're not risking an AI.
>This is unacceptable! You're not going to trust two strangers with a valuable artifact!

>>30834837
>>Agree, you figure an Academy run by one of your own is one of the few places you can trust with this.

>>30834837
>Agree, but snatch Fulvia before you let them have it. You have no idea just how they intend to deactivate it, and you're not risking an AI.

Trust is great, but there's no need to put her in danger.

>>30834837
>>Agree, but snatch Fulvia before you let them have it. You have no idea just how they intend to deactivate it, and you're not risking an AI.

I'm starting to really hate these guys.

>>30834837
>>Agree, but snatch Fulvia before you let them have it. You have no idea just how they intend to deactivate it, and you're not risking an AI.

we'll put it back when examining it or something

>>30834837
>>Agree, but snatch Fulvia before you let them have it. You have no idea just how they intend to deactivate it, and you're not risking an AI.

>>30834837
>Agree, but snatch Fulvia before you let them have it. You have no idea just how they intend to deactivate it, and you're not risking an AI.

I hope they have a voice box lying around somewhere which we can buy and install into the dog construct. It feels weird to not have her voice anything. Fulvia is not just a simple mule/hound

>Agree, snatch Fulvia.
Writin'

You know, I'm suddenly not sure it was a good idea to agree with this.
Why are there two sets of guards where the second set of guards keep hassling the visitors when they already went through a checkpoint just before?

Do we get to see them take it into the Academy? Otherwise don't just leave it with them and go away.

>>30835020
They are different checkpoints. this is the gates of the academy.

>>30834927
considering she doesn't have much power at the moment thats basically all she is.. she was helpfull about a place she was stationed at for 1000 years.
and after she lost power she was not as usefull and we would have liked her to be.
and now on the out side.. i'd rather we have simple coomands like charge and carry our shit, so our guar has less shit on him.

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You stare at the two guards, then sigh and dismount your guar. Approaching Fulvia, the panel slides open to reveal the Core glowing brightly in its receptacle. You motion for Profectus to dismount while gently prying the roughly egg-shaped crystal out of the groove carved into the constructs head, and the construct promptly collapses to the ground. You stuff the gem into your courier's bag and remount your guar, pulling Profectus onto the animal behind you.

“There you are, men. Have at it.” Leaving them to haul the giant heap of twisted metal, pistons, and gears you spur your guar and Chryssa follows suit. Perhaps a bit petty to make them do all that work, but they were being awful annoying. Maybe they'll learn a lesson while they struggle to drag several hundred pounds of metal across the grounds, and indeed turning back to make sure they're not running off with your stuff they're having quite the difficult time of it.

It isn't long before you're pulling up on the reins in front of the great oaken doors that lead into the Academy proper. Dismounting, a young apprentice hurries to take Al Gasreed's reins and lead him over to a trough filled with what you think is oats mixed and water, but it looks like an unappetizing off-white mush. He follows suit with Chryssa's guar, at least the animals seem to enjoy whatever it is.

Chryssa pushes the door open and the three of you enter the Great Hall. It's as opulent as you remember it, each pillar carved with magnificent detail depicting scenes of battle, or life sized carvings of old men you assume are former Archmagi. To your right, along a narrow pathway that weaves its way through a fish pond, would be the Library. To your left... well, you're not really sure what's to your left. Straight ahead is the Archmagos' Quarters and the interns manning the desk.

>Straight ahead! Go speak with the Archmagos.
>Right! To the Library.
>Left! Explore!

>>30835099
Hmm, that's true.

But she did mention that prior to the facility being abandoned they were working on more portable energy sources. We got the research data from the facility, maybe with the help of the Academy, we will be able to complete it and upgrade the construct. Then, perhaps, she will be at her full capacity.

>>30835144
>>Right! To the Library.

we can explore later
besides, it would be rude

>>30835144
>>Straight ahead! Go speak with the Archmagos.

Let's greet our friend and get clearance to do the stuff we want to do here.

>>30835144
>>Straight ahead! Go speak with the Archmagos.
it wouldn't be polite otherwise, time to exchange story!

>>30835144
>>Right! To the Library.
There seems to be no rush.

>>30835193
FUCK.
I wanted to choose this:
>Straight ahead! Go speak with the Archmagos.

>>30835144
>Right! To the Library.
i feel like a plot hook will come with talking to archmagos so lets have at the books first.

>>30835207
>>30835203
>>30835200
>Straight ahead!

>>30835235
>>30835205
>Right!

Writin'

>>30835235
Archmagos may give us permission to access the library while we are staying here, effectively letting us read those expensive books for free.
Why go to the library, buy the books and then get free access anyway?

>>30835144
>>Straight ahead! Go speak with the Archmagos.

Well, it's only polite you inform the Archmagos of your presence, even if he probably already knows you're here. You start forward, and hear Profectus whistle loudly as you pass by the various pillars, paintings, and frescoes. “Hard to believe this place was basically a backwater fishing village when they put me under... Then again, guess a lot can happen in a thousand years.”

You're somewhat surprised he remembers a detail like that. “Have your memories been coming back to you?” You ask, and he shrugs. “A little, it's a contextual thing, I think. I remember Anthus, the name of the city, and sorta vaguely that it was a fishing village out in the boonies. They supplied the base with a lot of its garum-” Something at the back of your mind tells you that garum is delicious, and good on everything. It doesn't tell you what garum is though... “-and fish, so they were kind of important for our continued existence.”

As Profectus wraps up his brief history lesson, the three of you arrive at the front desk. You nod politely to one of the young women busily writing out... something or other. “We're here to see the Archmagos, is he available?” The woman looks away from whatever it is she's working on and checks another document. “He should be available, it's a few hours until his next appointment. You can head on up, he'll know you're coming.”

You nod, and set off towards the long, curving stairway behind the desk. The potted plants placed strategically every few feet are probably the reason he knows to expect you. Nature Vatis tend to be able to extend their senses through near-by plantlife. It isn't long before you're knocking on the simple wooden door that leads to his office.

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Rather than a call to enter, the door is pulled open by a gnarled root, which promptly crawls its way back into the soil. Three chairs weave themselves from the ground, along with a small table between them. You hear a pen scratching against paper from the raised platform above. “Have a seat! I'll be just a minute!”

You take a seat without much complaint, Chryssa seems wary, while Profectus is just confused. You can see him mouth 'How did he do that?' towards you. You respond simply by mouthing 'Magic' back to him. He shrugs and takes a seat. Not long after that Suresh makes his way down the staircase and bows to the three of you. “I see you've gained another companion since we last met! Tell me, how have you been the last few days?”

>Tell him about delving the ruin in detail, explain you found Profectus in a pod.
>Tell him in detail, leave out the bit about Profectus.
>Give him the gist of it, then get straight to business.

>>30835549
>Tell him in detail, leave out the bit about Profectus.

Objection?

>>30835549
>>Tell him about delving the ruin in detail, explain you found Profectus in a pod.

I'm sure a chance to discuss things with a thousand year old guy will earn us a lot of free stuff.

>>30835577

Nope - it's up to Profectus to share that methinks.

[X] Tell him in detail, leave out the bit about Profectus.

>>30835549
>>Tell him about delving the ruin in detail, explain you found Profectus in a pod.

don't see any reason not to and I think he would be excited to meet someone from an ancient empire

Maybe we should also put Fulvia into that portable media thingamajig and show her to him?

>>30835549
>Tell him in detail, leave out the bit about Profectus.

>>30835549
>>Tell him about delving the ruin in detail, explain you found Profectus in a pod.
leave out fulvia

>>30835549
>>Tell him about delving the ruin in detail, explain you found Profectus in a pod.

Specially Fulvia, he will most likely interested in a fully functional AI.

>>30835530
>Garum
Isn't that like... fish intestines salted and fermented in the sun for a few months?

>>30835577
>>30835606
>>30835661
>Leave out the Profectus bit

>>30835697
>>30835684
>>30835620
>>30835599
>Unabridged version

>>30835699
Technically, it's the liquid that they scrape off the top of salted fish intestines after they've been fermented for a few months in the sun. Often diluted with wine, olive oil, or water.

>>30835699
>>30835730
Who thinks to eat this stuff? Is it just drunken bets gone right?

Rolled 54

>>30835765
Its a acquired taste that cert ion people have.

>>30835765
>hating on ancient fish ketchup

>>30835684

Why? This guy is friendly to us and probably knows most that anyone about the old empire and he is the most likely to reward us for her or for the chance to study her even on temporal basis. If we don't tell him, we might as well never tell anyone else and basically reduce Fulvia to a glorify packing guar.

>>30835765
it is a great sauce and makes pretty much anything better.

>>30835802
Because I dont trust him.

>>30835802

Mostly because these are not our secrets to share.

Profectus should decide if he wants to speak about himself.

>>30835834

Now that's just stupid paranoia. He help us a lot and didn't have any clue we could get rich or acquire lots of ancient loot before doing so. He even offer us a teaching job. There is literally nothing that makes him untrustworthy.

>>30835941
this, he has been incredibly friendly and never asked anything in return
for all he knew, we could have taken advantage of his hospitality and fucked off once it stopped being useful to us

>>30835941
The thing that sticks out the most is how he got, you know, banished.
>>30835974
He could simply be playing a long con here.

>>30835925

I was talking about Fulvia specially, but trying to hide Profectus is a little hard considering his rock arm. I mean he is likely to ask about him or most likely identifying immediately like he did with Chryssa. Which he did by just looking at her the first time.

>>30835997

Just like us. Are we untrustworthy because of that?

>>30835941
>>30835974
I'm glad you guys clung to reason while i was gone.

>>30835997
For being a rapist, no less. I mean, just tossing that out there.

>>30836036
Yes, yes we are.

>>30835974
>never asked anything in return
i dont know, i never trust a man doesnt ask for anything in return.

>>30836044
that's not what happened, you're jumping to conclusions to validate your point

>>30835997
he got banished for fucking some chick. Quit being overly paranoid, he gave us hundreds of silver worth of books and discounts too.

>>30836044
Technically, the brand on his cheek is Scourge. That means he either raped someone OR had a kid with a foreigner.

>>30835997
he either raped someone or slept with someone 'wrong'

we, on the other hand, were banished for slander which is much more untrustworthy in my opinion.

>>30836053
I would be wary if he gave away his personal shit, but it's like giving your employee discount to a friend, nice to do but it doesn't personally hurt you.

>>30836062
No doubt so we would come back to him with sweet loot to steal.

>>30836079
OR he slept with the wrong person and got kicked out for it.

>>30836096
We have no IC reason to distrust him so we won't. Quit being an overly paranoid fuck.

>>30836134
A: What does IC stand for?
B: You really should not trust everyone you meet, or the quest will end with some great haste.

>>30836161
In Character.

Roleplay, don't Rollplay.

Our character has every reason to trust him and no reason to not trust him. So we trust him.

>>30836096
we specifically came to academy with all these ancient shit because they are the most likely people to gather something useful from them as opposed, to say, some rich bored fuck who collects old artifacts and offers insane prices for them.

Have you forgotten that we got research data from the facility? Most likely the research on portable energy sources? How do you think we can make use of this on our own?
The best bet is to have the academy go at it and hope for the best. The more info we divulge the better the chances.


>>30836161
In character.

It is a risk (albeit pretty much non-existent) that we should take.

>>30836161
In character.

And it's not like we're trusting some random bandit or a shifty guy like the executioner king, this guy has been nothing but cool with us.

>>30836161
There's healthy paranoia and then there's you. What could he possibly have to gain from dicking us over when he's already established a healthy relationship with us? Us, an adventurer that's come to him to sell loot and buy from his academy. That's his angle, a business relationship and possibly a friend.

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>>30836161
You are so fucking stupid

“Ah, my friend! It has been an eventful two days, let me tell you! I went to explore that old Rhynian ruin they'd opened up to the north of Licae-” You launch into your story, starting with the exploration of the darkened hallway and what lied beyond. You go into detail about the odd flesh covered growth that had crept its way across those strange statues, then about the strange abominations and the heart at the center of it all. You describe finding Profectus trapped in that pod, and show him the book you found in the rather barren library.

Then you launch into a description of the strange array you found off to the left of the entrance. You describe the beam of light fired into the chandelier, and the way the beam almost seem to stutter purposefully. Then you describe in as much detail as you can the image it displayed later, of the spheres orbiting other spheres and Profectus' explanation that the Rhynians believed that to be the model of the planets orbiting the sun.

Finally, you launch into your efforts to bypass the generator's field of pull and what came afterward. You describe finding Fulvia sobbing after you broke into the cafeteria, and then convincing her you were the new commander of the facility a thousand years delayed. You describe the constructs you found, and also mention you brought two of your finds back to the Academy with you. Then you talk about the collapse of the armory roof, and your experiences in the core. Finally you finish by going over your experience in the Vys Array, emphasizing how intensely unpleasant getting stabbed in the chest proved to be.

(1/2 or 3)

You sit back after you've finished your story, and there's a few moments of silence before Suresh speaks up. “Well, you certainly get up to a lot in two days time! I can see why you weren't eager to take that teaching job.” He looks to Profectus after that. “Tell me, he found you in a pod? What was it? Why were you trapped inside? And, well, if you don't mind me asking... why is your arm made of stone?”

Profectus smiles and holds out his stone arm, the roiling substance beneath shining softly through the cracks. “Ah, well. Can't say I'm surprised this thing draws attention. I... don't really remember the circumstances of how I got the arm. I remember that I was a soldier before I got the arm, joined up and turned out to be a passable fire vatis. Then after I got the arm I was some sorta officer, I think. Special status, maybe. It gets hazy the further back I go or the closer it gets to me getting stuffed in that pod. Oh, and the pod is just a stasis chamber. Keeps someone alive indefinitely, like a bear hibernating sorta. I think I was shoved in there because I was a 'successful experiment'.”

Suresh rubs his chin, and leans back. “Well, that would explain why your name means Progress.” Profectus seems taken aback. “Wait, really?” Suresh looks confused. “Yes, I figured you knew. You certainly speak better Rhynian than I at least.” Profectus sighs. “Gods above, I've been walking around calling myself 'Success'? I must sound like a complete narcissist...”

You pat him consolingly on the shoulder. "If it's any consolation, you don't seem like a -complete- narcissist." He chuckles, and shrugs his shoulders. "Well... I'll go by a nickname or something. Prof, maybe?" You gently suggest. "Rocky might work." Which earns you a glare. "Har har, no. Anyway, the best nicknames are the ones you earn anyway. I'll just wait and see what happens."

(2/3)

>>30836379
Lets call him Cactus

>>30836473
Nah hes obvioudly Geodude

After that, Suresh returns his attention to you. “So, you mentioned that you brought back two constructs, and the core right? I assume the guards are taking those to our storage facilities?” You nod. “Everything except the Core, I have that with me.” You say, patting your bag. “Ah, well. In that case feel free to use our facilities to study your finds if you'd like, however I must insist any breakthroughs you might have be credited at least partially to the Academy. Good for our reputation, after all. Other than that, what you've told us will prove invaluable. I'll start getting an expedition together to go investigate whatever is left of the ruin and work on moving that generator. Is there anything else you need?”

You shrug your shoulders. “A place to stay might be nice, and access to the library. I believe I still have five days to finish those books I bought and return them for a portion of my money back.” He chuckles, and waves a hand. “Of course, of course. You can stay in one of the vatis suites. They're...” He looks up and away, probably trying to puzzle out a mental map of the building. “To your right, after you exit my office. Up the second flight of stares you come across. They're a fair bit nicer than the closets we stuff apprentices into.”

>Ask the Archmagos what is up with all the guards in the area.
>Ask the Archmagos what he intends to do with the Generator.
>Ask the Archmagos something else. (Write-in)
>That's it for now, go inspect your rooms.
>To the library! There is reading to do.

Rolled 92

>>30836520
>>Ask the Archmagos what is up with all the guards in the area.
>>Ask the Archmagos what he intends to do with the Generator.

Can we ask both of these

>>30836520
>Ask the Archmagos what he intends to do with the Generator.

>>30836520
>>Ask the Archmagos what is up with all the guards in the area.
>>Ask the Archmagos something else.

Ask him if there are any artifacts for sale in the academy and if we can get a discount for those too.

>>30836520
>>Ask the Archmagos what is up with all the guards in the area.
>>30836520
>>Ask the Archmagos what he intends to do with the Generator.
do both

>>30836520
>>To the library! There is reading to do.
enough chitchat

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>>30836473
>>30836488

>>30836563
ASH LAVALAMP

>>30836520
>Ask the Archmagos something else. (Write-in)

"I have to say im quite curios about the origin of your mark if you dont mind me asking, how'd you get it?"

>>30836520
>>Ask the Archmagos something else. (Write-in)
Ask him how they intent to move the generator. Without the suit we have it would be impossible to get close to it and we have pretty much complete access to all the facilities that work.

>>30836563
>MST3K
Maaah nigga

Writin' for
>What's with all the cops?
>What're you gonna do with the generator?
>You got any artifacts to sell?
>How'd you get your mark?

>>30836615
Mainpulate + Range should be able to operate the controls.

“I appreciate the help, Archmagos. Though, if you don't mind, can I ask a few questions before we leave?” He nods his assent. “Just what do you intend to do with the generator, and how on earth do you intend to move the thing?” He rubs his chin contemplatively. “Well, we'll probably try to get it running somewhere on the Academy grounds. Then maybe try to puzzle out just how it works. Perhaps disassemble it and try to reassemble it.” He shrugs. “As for how we'll move it, we have some of those one-piece armored uniforms with the padded feet. They'll protect against the generator's pull until we manage to disconnect it. Plus we can always manipulate the controls at a distance with a little bit of experimentation.”

He pauses. “Even failing that though, usually the generators are on a raised platform with nothing underneath. You can actually just walk across the bottom of the platform if the pull is strong enough, then cut all the cords running from the generator. That will drop the input to zero and the output will lower accordingly. Of course, then you go falling off the bottom of the platform.”

Huh, you hadn't thought of that. Probably because it seems suicidal. “That reminds me, I have a few artifacts the university might be interested in. Among them a suit of technician's armor, the stuff you use to survive the generator's pull.” Suresh nods. “Speak with our Artificer, he manages the study of artifacts. You should be able to follow the signs to his workshop, but if you get lost just ask a student to guide you there. He also manages our stock of enchanted items, if you had thousands of silver you wanted to donate to the Academy.”

(1/2 or 3)

You take all that in. “Okay, that's easy enough to remember. One more thing I've been curious about though... what's with all the guards? It seems like in the lower portions of the city I can wander around heavily armed hauling around a construct with blades longer than a man on its arms no problem, but in these upper reaches I get stopped every few feet at a checkpoint.” Suresh laughs. “Yes, well. I'm afraid that's a symptom of the city's internal strife. All the power players live in the Upper Quarter, you see. So they all have their own guards at the gates they control. The Academy is an independent entity so I have to man my own guards to make sure nobody tries to break in and rob the place.”

That's... somewhat concerning. A bunch of people keeping private militaries in an enclosed space probably isn't the most stable of situations. You stand, and bow to Suresh respectfully. Profectus and Chryssa follow suit and he waves a hand dismissively. “No need to be so formal! I consider you friends or at least acquaintances. If there is anything you need, just come by. As long as I'm not already in a meeting I'd be happy to discuss... well, anything really.” He shrugs, and then gets up to show the three of you out.

As you make your way towards the door you turn to him and ask. “One more thing, Brother, I have to say I'm curious how exactly you got your brand.” He grins nostalgically. “Ah, well... maybe another time. I'm afraid it's a bit... well, personal to discuss in front of the foreigners.” He nods his head towards Profectus and Chryssa. “Perhaps I'll see you in the library sometime, I often stop by there to read or do some research.”

With that, he escorts the three of you out the door and sends you off with a friendly wave. Seems that leaves you free for the rest of the day.

>Go check out your suite of rooms.
>Go read in the library.
>Go explore the Academy grounds.
>Write-in

>>30836956

>Go check out your suite of rooms.

>>30836956
>>Go check out your suite of rooms.

Let's make ourselves comfortable and then get to that workshop. We can hang out in the library afterwards.

>Check out your suite
Writin'

>>30836956
>Go check out your suite of rooms.
let use this time to teach chryssa some basic magic, after that everyone will be able to expand magical knowledge at the academy.

>>30837073
we should focus on reading the books while we can

>>30837313
Let's handle the workshop first, if we place an order we might want to place it asap to avoid being stuck here while waiting.

File: 1394836524084.jpg-(355 KB, 1000x411, Academy Suite.jpg)

355 KB JPG

You decide to go check out the suite the Archmagos so kindly provided you. Hopefully it has more than enough room to house three people. As exit the stairwell you head right, as you were directed, and find yourself in a hallway with a long row of windows to let in sunlight and the sea breeze. You see apprentices scattered about in corners and alcoves attending to whatever it is apprentices in this place attend to. Honestly, you don't know how they learn without some crazy old man spraying them with water at odd hours.

You pass one stairway labeled 'Men's Dorm', and then the second stairway is labeled 'Faculty & Guest'. That checks out with the directions you were given, so you make your way up the winding staircase. This place is pretty fond of winding staircases, come to think of it. Fortunately this one isn't nearly as long as the stairway to the Archmagos' Chambers. You find yourself exiting into a long hallway with doors ever few feet on either side. They're labeled with the names of the occupant written on brass plaques, so you start looking for one that is unmarked. Before you find one though Chryssa taps you on the shoulder and points to a door labeled 'Mikhael et al.'

“Huh, that's convenient.” You comment absentmindedly before pushing the door open. Profectus throws in his two cents. “Kind of creepy they already had a plaque made.” To which Chryssa nods in agreement. You just shrug. “Magic can do some interesting things, friends. Believe me, this barely registers on my scale of what is and is not strange.” That at least seems to put them somewhat at ease, momentarily at least.

(1/2)

>>30837346
What do you mean place an order? They don't make magic items.

The rooms you've been given are very open and airy. There are no doors once you enter the suite, all the rooms just flow into one another. The wall that faces out towards the sea is hardly a wall at all, really just archways granting access to a long balcony. Even the bedrooms are only separated by a curtain. Of course, this is fairly standard for buildings in your homeland. Rather unusual in this region, you imagine.

The room has a full kitchen and a bath in the Rhynian style, four faucets at each corner of a rectangular pool. You also note that two big jars of wine and a tray of cups has been left on the kitchen counter. How on earth they think three people are intended to drink two of those giant jars in a few days is beyond you. Do they think you're some kind of alcoholic?

Overall the suite seems more than comfortable.

Chryssa and Profectus have gone off to claim their beds, so you figure you may as well follow suit. You pick the bedroom with a view of the sea, and take the time to remove your armor and put away some of the gear you don't think you'll need, like lantern, Oud, and various other bits and bobs. You need to make a trip to a general store and sell some of the more mundane stuff you've collected sometime soon.

>Relax, have a cup of wine, settle in to read. It's been a long two days.
>No rest for the banished. Go see about meeting the Artificer.
>Go to the library and see about selling some of your finished books.
>Write-in

>>30837443
Modifying a power unit to suit Fulvia's needs, calibrating the mask and armors etc.

>>30837460
>>No rest for the banished. Go see about meeting the Artificer.

>>30837313
we can read our own book on travel time, and we have time to study academic book. if we teach chryssa now, she can start studying alongside.

>>30837460
>No rest for the banished. Go see about meeting the Artificer

>>30837470
Teaching isn't a full time thing. More like telling them to do something and answering questions and helping with problems. We can read while she meditates or does whatever she needs to.

>>30837467
Those second 2 are bullshit.

If you mean Chryssas integration idea then we should ask her about it.

>Go meet the Artificer
Writin'

You set off to see the Artificer, it shouldn't be too hard to find their workshop if there really are signs posted up telling you where to go. You sigh, forcing yourself out of the comforting embrace of the bed, and collect the artifacts you want to show her. You grab the officer's pistol, the strange sword, and your armor. You also grab the spice vial you bought off of Sadik, and the case of brooches you also bought off Sadik that are supposed to help you communicate over long distances.

Unfortunately the two constructs you brought with you are in 'the facilities' wherever those are, logic would dictate they'd be in or near the Artificer's Workshop. Chryssa has the Elaudian Death Mask and the Technician's Armor, while Profectus has the falcata. You're about to call out for the two of them when Chryssa pulls aside the curtain that separates your room from the kitchen.

“Profectus says he intends to cook dinner, although judging by the rate at which he is drinking wine I doubt he will be sober enough to follow through on that promise. I was hoping to get started on my training.” She politely explains. You frown slightly. “I hate to be the one to ruin the fun, but I was actually thinking about going to that Artificer to see about having them look over our weapons and armor. After all, no time like the present.” You quickly tack on. “I'll start your training as soon as we get back, the basic stuff isn't that hard, really, and I'm going to be reading anyway.” She nods. “That is acceptable, I will go fetch my things.”
(1/2)

>>30837781
Don't forget the falcata, and mace, and ring, and everything

File: 1394838416042.jpg-(142 KB, 680x1052, Crazy Hayes.jpg)

142 KB JPG

With that she turns promptly on her heel and wanders out of the room. You go find Profectus before he gets just completely sozzled and can't be of any use anymore. He has just grabbed an entire jar and is sitting on the counter pouring wine down his gullet. Gambling, drinking, is there a vice this guy doesn't have? After you've gotten him to put the jar down and go fetch his things, the three of you set out once more onto the Academy grounds.

Exiting the stairwell once more into the wide, sunny hallway you see a sign hanging against the wall that seems to have the major locations labeled. You skip over the dorms, offices, and various storage facilities to the Artificer's Workshop near the bottom of the list. It indicates with an arrow that you should proceed further along the hallway.

The hallway takes a sharp turn a few hundred feet past the stairwell to your suite, and becomes notably more enclosed. Torches line the walls now, smoke curling up towards the cavernous ceiling and giving the whole place the vague scent of burning wood and oil, not unpleasant really, but certainly a change from the sea air and sunlight.

Eventually you come to a set of wooden double doors with iron bands reinforcing them, a sign above reading simply “Artifice”. You push gently on the door, finding it unlocked. Inside all array of machinery, tools, and other bits and bobs you can't quite identify line the walls, the floor, even dangle from the ceiling. At the center of it all is a man wearing thick goggles over his eyes bent over what you think is a gauntlet of some sort, sparks flying where his finger touches the metal of the gauntlet. When the door opens he looks towards you briefly before returning to his work, seemingly disinterested.

>Take the opportunity to look around while you wait.
>Just wait patiently.
>Politely interrupt, maybe flash the artifacts you have to get his interest.
>Write-in

>>30837804
>Signet Ring
>Officer's Pistol
>Strange Sword
>Centurion Armor
>Elaudian Death Mask
>Earth Shattering Mace
>Falcata

This is what I have listed as the items you brought. Anybody think I'm missing something?

>>30837967
Nope, remember to inquire about a power source.

>>30837967
Oh, that crazy little sphere we found, I guess

>>30837946
>>Take the opportunity to look around while you wait.

can't interrupt an artist

>>30837994
Ah, right. The Archeota. Added to the notes.

Also, I'm gonna run and grab some din-din real quick. Estimated 15 minute wait, but I'm bad at estimating things.

>>30837946
>>Take the opportunity to look around while you wait.

>>30837946
>>Take the opportunity to look around while you wait

>>30837946
>Take the opportunity to look around while you wait.

Lets see what we can possibly get before we sell him some dirty draws in exchange for his life

>>30837946
>>30837967
Don't forget the Spice

>>30838155
We could have him take a look at Profectuses arm while we're here.

>>30837946

>Look but don't touch

>>30838155
I expect a herbalist or alchemist to know if this is magical cocaine

>>30838292
We probably should have asked the Archmagus. Nature Mage + Samjan is best combination for this item.

>>30837967
Don't forget about the brooches.

>>30837967
Bring the couriers bag too, since it has 'hidden effects'

Back, only took about twice as long as I thought it would.
So final list seems to be
>Signet Ring
>Officer's Pistol
>Strange Sword
>Centurion Armor
>Comm Brooches
>Spice Vial
>Courier's Bag

>Elaudian Death Mask
>Earth Shattering Mace

>Falcata
>Archeota

And y'all want to
>look around a bit
Writin'

Well, one should never interrupt an artist at work. Besides, not like you're pressed for time or anything. You deposit some of your more unwieldy items, namely the Centurion Armor, next to the door and then take a short stroll around the room to see just what it is he seems to have in this place.

Many of the artifacts he's working on, though old, seem perfectly mundane. He's got the leg of a dog construct laid out and... well, dissected would be the best word to describe it. He's taken out the pistons and the gears that allow it movement, and separated those into their component parts. He's also got an entire box, about three feet wide and perhaps four feet tall, entirely filled with old gold coins. Most of them are tarnished, bent, or worn in some way but still, that's a lot of money. Probably millions of silver, just sitting in the open.

You find a great stone slab standing in one corner, perhaps ten feet tall and covered from top to bottom in some ancient form of writing. It doesn't even vaguely resemble anything you're familiar with, and much of it has been worn away besides. A sheaf of notes next to it seems to be a transcription of the tablet onto paper.

Some of the more obviously magical artifacts hold your attention a little better. They sit in display cases, a small plaque at the bottom listing a number you can only assume represents the price. They actually seem... pretty ridiculously cheap. The most expensive you could find were a pair of glove going for '300'. Then again, it's not listed as gold or silver, just the flat number. Still, surely those gloves couldn't cost 4500 silver, right? They looked practically normal, besides the glowing!

(1/2 or 3)

The second most expensive looked far more interesting. Power boiled away from the lone gauntlet inside like it was roiling with barely contained energy. You could feel the heat given off through the glass panel. Whatever it did, it was probably destructive, and going for the low, low price of only '280', however much that is.

You notice a few other items of interest, items that catch your attention for reasons other than being expensive. A golden helm wrought with intricate designs with only barely a slit for a visor. A vaguely feminine construct with a large... something strapped to its back, or perhaps merely joined to its back. A long staff, crowned at the hilt with a red gem and at the tip with a intricate carving of a dragon breathing blue flame. An unsettling mask with eyes that seem as if burnt holes in shattered metal, ominous would be the best word to describe it. Others as well, though they don't look all that impressive. The cheapest you can find is only '100', so either a hundred silver or fifteen hundred silver, depending on the units.

About that time, you hear the sparking stop and the man clears his throat loudly. “Well then! Come to visit Ol' Man Hayes I see!” Old? This guy doesn't look more than thirty... “Well he's sure happy to see you, I tell yah what! What can Hayes do for you three?”

Is he talking about himself in the third person? The insanity must've taken this one at a young age.

>Just mention we'd like to have some artifacts looked at.
>Mention we might also be interested in buying or trading for some artifacts.
>Ask him about an artifact
>Write-in

(Sorry about the wait, internet is spotty for some reason.)

>>30839282
>>Just mention we'd like to have some artifacts looked at.
>>Mention we might also be interested in buying or trading for some artifacts
First then second.

>>30839282
>Just mention we'd like to have some artifacts looked at.
>Mention we might also be interested in buying or trading for some artifacts

>>30839339
Aye

>>30839282
>>Just mention we'd like to have some artifacts looked at.
>>Mention we might also be interested in buying or trading for some artifacts.

>Ask him about the construct

>>30839282
>Just mention we'd like to have some artifacts looked at.
>Mention we might also be interested in buying or trading for some artifacts

>Get stuff looked at
>See about buying/bartering for artifacts
Writin', starting with get stuff looked at. I'll try to knock most of it out in one long post so bear with me here.

We should see if we could get the orb to work with the feminine artifact to get her an actual working body.

>>30839948
we could do a trade.

“Well, I was hoping you might be able to take a look at some of the artifacts I found in an old Rhynian facility.” He looks between the three of you, focusing for a moment each on Profectus' arm and Chryssa's horns. “Well sure thing, Hayes can do that for yah! Whaddya want Hayes to look at?” His accent is atrocious, and seems to be getting worse the longer you talk with him. Profectus seems almost physically pained listening to the man talk.

You pull the pistol out of where you'd secured it with your sash. “Care to illuminate what this is, exactly? I know it's a firearm, a pistol, but I was hoping you might give me a few more specifics.” He gently takes it from your hands and looks it over. “Alright, this is simple enough then. This'un here-” He points to a line of gold filigree. “-Is the start of a spell amplification enchantment. Y'can kinda tell what cause all the energy flowin' through the designs. That ain't normal, y'see. If Hayes had to take a guess, he'd say fire magic is amplified when channeled through this 'ere gun.”

He tosses it back to you haphazardly, and you catch it after experiencing only minor panic. You stuff it back into your sash and pull out the strange sword, presenting it to him hilt-first. “What about this? I wouldn't really recommend testing it out in here, but it projects a wave of-” You're forced to duck as a wave of violent blue energy shoots by just a few inches above your head. It slices through a few of the ropes attaching tools and machinery to the ceiling and leaves a deep gouge in the wall.

(1/3 or 4)

“Ahhh! Hayes has used one of these before. Really, this'un here is malfunctional. Probably got some tiny crack in the charging gem somewhere. Usually the energy is only released after the sword makes contact with something. That ain't that bad though! A lot of the time soldiers would sabotage their weapons so they could attack at range. This here is a damn dangerous weapon though. Wouldn't recommend using it around friends.” He flips it through the air and catches it by the blunt edge, offering the hilt to you. You take it and stuff it back into its sheathe.

The next few items go quickly. The brooches work with a theoretically infinite number of people on the same 'network' as he referred to it. As long as everyone has pricked their finger on each of the brooches everyone should be able to hear everyone. The signet ring is apparently supposed to serve as a receptacle for a 'mark' spell. Thus, one could cast a 'mark' spell through the ring and give it to someone else, they would benefit from the effects of the spell just like you would. It also serves as a nifty official symbol, in his opinion. He had no idea what the hell the spice vial was, but recommended huffing it all at once to find out if it has a lethal dosage. You're not really sure whether to be offended or amused.

(2/3)

The mace, according to him, will become exponentially stronger as one's knowledge of earth magic increases, until someone can shatter buildings with a single blow. The falcata on the other hand send out a wave of force with a sharp edge in front of the blade, effectively amplifying the force of a blow and making it immensely harder to dodge or block a blow. He wasn't entirely sure what in the gods' names to make of the Death Mask, but said anything called 'Death Mask' is probably a pretty darn cool item. The archeota, he explained, was pretty mundane by magic standards. Just a simple enchantment to transfer visuals and sounds to or from a gem. Granted, still far beyond anything modern Vatis can do.

Finally he gets to the Centurion Armor. He grins as he spots it sitting by the door. “Ahhh, a real beut, that is right there. This'un... this'un is centurion armor. Looks to have already been calibrated...” He channels a little vys into the armor's gauntlet and instead of activating, fire shoots out of the palm and scorches Haye's leg pretty badly. He seems nonplussed. “Yup, definitely already calibrated. Afraid Hayescan't tell you just too terribly much about this 'ere armor! It's pretty darn resistant to spells, has all kinda whatnot packed into it, makes sure its owner ain't goin' off and dyin in a ditch nowhere. Makes you feel better, fight harder, march longer. Generally increases your stamina the longer you wear it. Also heard it might have some sorta receptacle in the helmet to shove an assistant, but Hayes ain't never seen someone shove a person into this tiny helmet.

>Ask about something specific
>Ask for tips on how to better figure out these artifacts.
>Remind me of some artifact I forgot about.
>Write-in

>>30840195
Uhh, sellingish things

>>30840246
Want to make sure I got everything looked at before I move on to shopping/haggling.

>>30840264
Oh, then the engi armor as well as the couriers bag

>>30840195
>Remind me of some artifact I forgot about.
The Archeota is one

>>30840195
>Also heard it might have some sorta receptacle in the helmet to shove an assistant, but Hayes ain't never seen someone shove a person into this tiny helmet.
I guess we know where the gem goes now.

>>30840195
>>Ask for tips on how to better figure out these artifacts.

>>30840337
>The archeota, he explained, was pretty mundane by magic standards. Just a simple enchantment to transfer visuals and sounds to or from a gem. Granted, still far beyond anything modern Vatis can do.
It's in there.

>>30840289
>Tech armor et couriers bag.

>>30840358
I would like her to have the female construct and see if we can buy another crystal for our selves here.

>>30840195

The constructs see if he or the academy could interested into buy them.

>>30840399
Yeah, she'll be a lot more useful in a construct body.

Speaking of which we still have a couple of constructs ourselves, let's see if we can trade them for the female one.

File: 1394846030405.png-(416 KB, 503x375, file.png)

416 KB PNG

>>30840452
nah we gonna maximum jew here, and haggle.

>>30840513
Well hey, that goes without saying

So we CAN have a Cortana.

Let's ask what the expensive gloves do.

You have Chryssa show him the tech armor, and he only needs to take a brief look at it to know what it is. “Ahh, that there is Technician's armor! Right useful, that is. Bit of a shame it ain't armored like that there Centurion Armor, but damn useful all the same. Has most of the same basic functionality as the Centurion Armor, makes yah healthier, keeps yah from dyin', gives yah more energy, makes yah happier in general. Also comes with a whole array of tools though, like in those gloves. Y'press a button and bam, outta nowhere a lockpick creates itself. Same thing for wrenches, screwdrivers, all sortsa shit.”

Well, only thing left you can really think of is your courier's bag. “Don't suppose there's anything special about this?” You ask the somewhat insane man. He glances at it, then shrugs his shoulders. “Nope! Sure is a nice bag though.”

Well, that's somewhat disappointing. “Hey, you wouldn't happen to know if two constructs got placed into storage near hear recently, would you?” He rubs his chin. “Well, yeah actually. Hayes happens to have the...happenings of... Hayes knows where them constructs are, sure.” You give him a strained smile. “Well, I happen to own those constructs, and I was hoping we might be able to negotiate a trade of some sort. Constructs and artifacts for some of the things you've got on display over there.”

He hems and haws for a moment before clapping his hands together. “Well that sounds just dandy! Whattya interested in stranger?”

>Ask about the feminine construct
>Ask about the boiling gauntlet
>Ask about the mundane-looking gloves
>Ask about the golden helmet
>Ask about the ominous mask
>Ask about the staff
>Write-in

(You can find a brief description of each item here:
>>30839258
>>30839282 )

I wanna check out Some of his items.

Let's ask him what he's willing to sell.

>>30840702
>Ask about the boiling gauntlet
>Ask about the mundane-looking gloves

Does the centurion armor leave room for gloves or the gauntlet?

>>30840702
>>Ask about the feminine construct
>>Ask about the boiling gauntlet
>>Ask about the mundane-looking gloves
>>Ask about the golden helmet
>>Ask about the ominous mask
>>Ask about the staff
Ask him about all of them.

>>30840702
>>Ask about the feminine construct
>>Ask about the boiling gauntlet
>>Ask about the mundane-looking gloves
>>Ask about the golden helmet
>>Ask about the ominous mask
>>Ask about the staff
to explain what everything does first.

>>30840702
>>Ask about the feminine construct
>>Ask about the boiling gauntlet

These would probably be good for Fulvia and Rocky.

I kinda want to know what all of them do though and how much they cost. Except the staff, it seems a bit useless to us, unless Fulvia could use it.

>>30840702
EVERYTHING!!!!!

>>30840767
Sadly no, one of the (few) drawbacks is it takes up a lot of magical item slots.

>>30840702
Can we have him look at Rockys arm?

>All of the above
My poor fingers. Writin'!

>>30840768
>>30840770
12 threads later

>>30840788

No room for the mask either? Ask anyway, we may want to equip Chryssa with some better than the Technician's armor.

>>30840702

>Ask about the feminine construct
>Ask about the boiling gauntlet
>Ask about the mundane-looking gloves
>Ask about the golden helmet
>Ask about the ominous mask
>Ask about the staff
You can't buy shit without knowing what it does. Or pass something up because the effects aren't obvious.

>>30840819
the armour is pretty good, he siad that its not as protective, plus we did buy armour for her so she can just put that over her technicians.

>>30840819
well she does have some leather armor at the tannery////I think she was going to try to combine them

>>30840702
Can it'd be cool to know about the vats robe as well?
Ask about gloves

>>30840819
She's going to be integrating it with some custom made Light armor so she's fine.

Let's look for something for Profectus, maybe that pair of gloves or some better armor or something.

>>30840865
Vatis robes are mundane, their hidden effects relate to how NPCs interact with you. For instance, the guards in the Upper Quarter would be even more annoying if you didn't wear your Vatis robes.

>>30840892
Are we always wearing them over our armor?

>>30840914
Usually, though I tend to gloss over that in situations like combat. Otherwise you'd need to be running to the tailor every other session to buy more clothes.

>>30840943
No problem, it's fine as is.

>>30840892

On that note we should probably improve our wardrobe. Nice clothes, travel clothes and cold weather clothes if we are go somewhere cold. Look good, feel good.

>>30840981
Our armor protects from the elements better than clothes ever could.

It also looks and feels better than just about all other clothes.

>>30840981
i like the robes, maybe we should upgrade them to master robes.

>>30841008
Actually, you're usually wearing a light robe and a pair of cotton pants underneath your armor. The fabric the armor lining is made of isn't just terribly uncomfortable, but it's not something you'd want to wear for several hours at a time.

It protects decently against the elements, especially fire and ice, but if you go tromping through the mountains bundling up might be wise.

>>30841082
>mountains bundling up might be wise.
wait can't we keep warm with fire, and doesn't our near mastery of water help stifle the affects of the cold?

>>30841140
Oh yeah, but you only have 20 vys. If you're constantly expending it to warm yourself with fire and stave off the cold with water you'll run out pretty quickly. Either that, or you'd have to stop and start every few hours to sleep/meditate. Not an efficient way to travel when cold weather clothes are 6 silver pieces.

>>30841140
Yeah, he's saying if we didn't have magic.

Still probably a good idea to get a nice cloak.

File: 1394848965151.jpg-(193 KB, 1000x874, Profectus' Arm.jpg)

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(This'll be a long series of fairly short post, each accompanied by an image. My apologies)

Well, you might as well ask since you're here. “Any idea what the deal with Roc-I mean Profectus' arm is?” He looks at it, leans in, pokes it and prods the thing for a while. Eventually he digs a small hole punch and a hammer out of his apron and knicks a hole through the stone covering into the roiling insides. Immediately flame starts to lick up the stone arm, some sort of liquid, magma you'd think, spilling out of the wound. Chryssa looks annoyed he just sullied her handiwork. Finally he speaks up. “This 'ere is one of them Rhynian experiments. My guess is they dragged some slave with only the barest grasp of what it is to be a Vatis out into the provinces and chopped off his arm, slapped this thing 'ere on him to see if they'd found a shortcut to making powerful magic users. Seems to have at least partially been a success, but I'm frankly surprised this thing hasn't blown up.”

File: 1394849033151.jpg-(616 KB, 1600x1000, Feminine Construct.jpg)

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Well, that's unsettling. Still, moving right along. You gesture broadly to the rows of display cases and the artifacts they contain. “Would you mind giving me a brief explanation of what these do?” Hayes looks at you for a moment. “You don't leave things half done, do yah boy? Well okay then! Lets start with...”

He points to the construct. “This'un! Hayes never quite figured out what in the gods blessed names this thing does. It was deactivated when Hayes found it, but Hayes thinks this thing on its back is a power source. Obviously, y'plug a gem into the thing and it kicks itself into gear. Only ever found a few gems though and not a one of them ever worked.” He shrugs.

File: 1394849095300.jpg-(29 KB, 600x833, Strange Gauntlet.jpg)

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After that he points to the gauntlet that is boiling red energy skyward. “Now this'un, this'un is dangerous. Volatile. Shoots out a ray of fire that gets out towards a hundred feet long. Damn near lit Hayes' notes on fire the first time Hayes used it. Not much utility, but truly frightening destructive power.”

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He moves on, pointing to the mundane gloves. “These on the other hand are all about utility. Basically, they give the user the effects of a constant manipulate spell, at the cost of a little vys for whatever it is they're tryin' to do. Grab something far away? Easy. Slap people in public without revealing yourself? No problem. Stop the vile poison spreading through your body? Can do! Really useful little buggers.”

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He gestures to the golden helmet. “This thing here is really quite neat. Basically, shove this'un on your head and all your senses get a little bit better. Smell a dog fart a mile away. Hear the beating of a fly's wings. That sorta thing. Can be dangerous for the wearer though, cause it means loud noises might make your ears bleed.”

>>30841516
well this is good.

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Next is the mask. “This'un is... well, I never tried it on quite frankly. I ain't stupid. If you'd be willing to shove it on your face you can have it at a discount.”

>>30841500
>>30841516
I'LL TAKE EM

>>30841563
>>30841541
>>30841516
Gets my vote.

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Then he comes to the staff. “This basically makes casting nature spells a little bit easier. Cost about half the normal amount of vys to cast any nature spells. Also allows you to manipulate plant growth without casting anything. Do all that fancy chair weaving what not the Archmagos does.”
>Make an offer on anything?

>>30841563
>>30841500
>>30841541
Voting

>>30841588
>>30841563
>>30841541
>>30841516
>>30841472
Offer our sword mage, and some gold.

>>30841451
>>30841472
>>30841500
>>30841516
>>30841541
>>30841563
>>30841588
TAKE EVERYTHING. BARTER. SCAM. JEW THIS FUCKING GUY

>>30841472
I'd offer to trade our constructs for this one.

>>30841472
Might be pretty neat.

>>30841500
I wonder if Profectus want two fire hands? Probably just pass it.

>>30841516
These. We're getting these and putting them on Chryssa.

>>30841541
Eh, doesn't seem that good. Especially since we do some dumb shit that tends to be excessively loud.

>>30841563
Neat. Let's do it.

>>30841588
Eeehh. No.

>>30841601
>>30841578
>>30841566
No one wants this?
>>30841472

>>30841563
Is there any IC reason NOT to do this? Because we should totally try it on.

>>30841643
>Eh, doesn't seem that good. Especially since we do some dumb shit that tends to be excessively loud.
not wear all the time, plus it can be useful.

>>30841672
>Any IC reason
The insane dude who talks about himself in the third person said not even he was willing to put it on.

>>30841672
it is ominous andthe expert is too nervous to do it himself>>30841654
they want to put her in the armor

>>30841472
Only thing I really want

>>30841500
>>30841563
Take or leave anything else really.

>>30841472
Get this for Fulvia

>>30841516
This seems neat as well.

>>30841694
>>30841699
Yeah, well he's crazy, so his opinions are instantly trashed. Let's put on this mask.

So, sorta looking through these votes the only things people have no interest in seem to be the staff. I'll write up a brief blurb, shouldn't take too long.

Anything but the mask, let's not have this quest go fullrandumb.

>>30841588
>>30841516
>>30841500

Big yes!

>>30841563

I don't like the look of it.

>>30841541
No thanks.

>>30841472
Maybe we could get it for the AI, but secure the deal for previews artifacts later.

Let's ask our allies if there's anything they want.

>>30841818
this works

Who would wear the fire gauntlet? Seems redundant on Profectus, we can't with our armour, so that just leaves Chryssa. I don't think she can use it if we give her the mundane gloves, something only she can wear again.

>>30841472
Yes

>>30841500
Maybe

>>30841516
Yes

>>30841541
Yes

>>30841563
Heeeeeellllllllllll fucking no.

>>30841588
Nah

>>30841864
Maybe it will help Profectus not go limp after 3 shots.

Is this his entire stock?

>>30841864

Yeah, fire gauntlet is a little redundant with redundant and we cant wear it with our armor.

>>30841472
Fulvia

>>30841500
Nope

>>30841516
Chryssa or Rocky?

>>30841541
Rocky

>>30841563
Nopenopenopenopenope

>>30841588
Mite be useful for nature mage training
Get it for us if it's cheap.

“Well, I'm not too interested in the staff, but tell me a bit more about these other items. What kind of price do you want for each of them?” He eyes you a bit, and starts listing off prices. “The Puppet Master's Gloves are three hundred gold, the Furnace Gauntlet is two hundred eighty gold, the Watchman's Helmet is two hundred twenty five gold, the mask is a ninety gold after your discount, and I'll trade you the construct for that there command unit I heard you brought in.”

>Total Cost: 13,425 silver and 1x Command Unit
>Total Wealth: 3,839 silver and 1x Command Unit

Since not even the Gods themselves could shave almost ten thousand silver off of a deal like this, you'll need to think about ditching some things until you're more within your price range.

>Drop the Mask
>Drop the Puppet Master's Gloves
>Drop the Furnace Gauntlet
>Drop the Watchman's Helmet

>>30841563
>>30841500
>>30841472
Buy

>>30841981
>Drop the Furnace Gauntlet

>>30841981
>>Drop the Furnace Gauntlet
>>Drop the Watchman's Helmet
>>Drop the Mask

>>30841981
Drop Watchman's Helmet
Drop Puppet Master's Gloves

>>30841981
Drop the mask and drop the furnace glove.

>>30841541
>Drop the Furnace Gauntlet
>Drop the Watchman's Helmet

>>30841981
>Drop the Furnace Gauntlet
>Drop the Watchman's Helmet

>>30841981
>>Drop the Puppet Master's Gloves
>>Drop the Furnace Gauntlet

Can we at least try the spooky mask on before deciding to buy it, see what it does?

>>30841981
>The Puppet Master's Gloves will still be out of our price range if we drop literally everything else.
Ffffffuuuuuuck!

>>30841981
Drop the death mask and fire gauntlet

>>30841981
Drop Puppet Master's Gloves
Drop Watchman's Helmet
Drop Mask

>>30842000
I agree

>>30841981

We should at least try the mask to see what it does.

>>30841981
>>Drop the Mask
>>Drop the Furnace Gauntlet

>>30841981
Can we sell him our sword mage?
>Drop the Puppet Master's Gloves
>Drop the Furnace Gauntlet

>>30841981
DROP THE FUCKING MASK

>>30842043
He wants the swordmage in exchange for the feminine construct.

>>30842025
I'm sure we can shave 700 silver with haggling if the dice gods are with us.

>>30841981
Drop Puppet Gloves since we can't afford them anyways.
Drop Watchman's Helm.
Keep mask since it'll cost nothing after we try it out.

>>30841981
>>Drop the Puppet Master's Gloves
>>Drop the Furnace Gauntlet
>>Drop the Watchman's Helmet
lets try the mask out.

IF we wanted to we could try to trade our pistol for the fire gauntlet, as the pistol has limited shots and the gauntlet does not, but they both do pretty similar things.

>>30842024
>>30842029
You don't know how these things work do you?

These things are permanent and it wouldn't surprise me if this one doesn't come off.

Besides he wouldn't let us even if we wanted to.

Calling votes so I can count all this. Seems the furnace gauntlet is out of here, but other things seem contentious.

>>30842051
I think he was talking about the dog.

rip in piece furnace guantlet. too good for us.

>>30842071
>These things are permanent
Where'd you get that idea?
>Besides he wouldn't let us even if we wanted to.
He very clearly said we could

>>30842072
does this include the costs on completion of the armor and the spear? or did we pay up front...I thought we only paid half already....

>>30842024
>>30842029
>>30842060
>>30842061
You guys are dumb, even the crazy person wouldn't put it on, it's obviously permanent and evil as fuck, we won't be able to take it off, which means our centurion armor will be pointless.

Please don't let this go lolrandumb

>>30842107
armor and death mask from before

>>30842116
We are adventurer anon.

>>30842116
>it's obviously permanent and evil as fuck, we won't be able to take it off, which means our centurion armor will be pointless.
Nice job pulling shit out of your ass.

>>30842132
you call it pulling out the ass I call it using context clues

>>30842116

If it doesn't come off then how come the skull of the last user isn't attach to it? Check Mate.

>>30842110
we only paid some up front so yeah we will need cash afterwards o pay for the leather and the custom weapon.
But we will be selling back some books remember. + I am sure we can sell the dog construct, being that he has one dissected leg im sure he'd be happy to see the rest and mess with it.
being how filthy rich this fucker is im sure we can make a profit.
he is not a merchant by trade.. we on the other hand, could sell salt to a slug.

>>30842107
Because every magical item we've seen is permanent.

Hee saidd he would give us a discount not let us try before wee buy

>>30842116
Why don't we whip out Fulvia and ask her if she has any information on it?

>>30842171

Oh wait, I thought of something. Maybe IT IS the face of the of the last user.

>>30842183
just like the mask we currently have right.. cause that's permanent.
Anyway I only really want the utility gloves for us. should go nicely.
But we need an explanation on all it's uses or a manual of some sort im sure this old fart has at minimum some logs of what it is capable of if he hasn't figured it all yet.

>>30842225
That's stupid, a much more likely scenario would be the head of the last user was incinerated or no one has yet to use it.
Now let's put it on.

>>30841995
>>30842000
>>30842007
>>30842009
>>30842016
>>30842020
>>30842026
>>30842043
>>30842035
>>30842061
>Drop Furnace Gloves

>>30842000
>>30842005
>>30842009
>>30842016
>>30842027
>>30842060
>>30842061
>Drop Watchman's Helmet

>>30842000
>>30842007
>>30842026
>>30842027
>>30842035
>>30842045
>Drop Mask

>>30842005
>>30842020
>>30842027
>>30842043
>>30842060
>>30842061
>Drop Puppet Master's Gloves

So it seems like dropping the Watchman's Helm and the Furnace Gauntlets is the popular choice.

>Total Cost: 5,850
>Total Wealth: 3,839

>You could attempt to haggle, but the artificer will get massive bonuses due to the price difference.

As someone noted, you also owe the blacksmith 10 gold for your spear after he finishes it, and the tanner 100 silver once he completes Chryssa's armor.

After taking obligations into account, you have 3,589 silver to spend.

>Try the mask on before you decide to buy it.
>Drop the mask, haggle for the gloves.
>Screw both these options, write-in

>>30842291
>>Drop the mask, haggle for the gloves.

>>30842291
>>Screw both these options, write-in
Leave

>>30842291
>Try the mask on before you decide to buy it.

>>30842291
>Drop Puppet Master's Gloves

May I add my vote to drop the Gloves? Shit is expensive and I don't think they are worth it.

I never should have advertised this quest in the qtg, it attracted the worst fucking players.

Learn context clues.

>>30842291
>Try the mask on before you decide to buy it.

If this thing's a bust, I'd rather not buy anything until we can afford the gloves.

>>30842291
>Try the mask on before you decide to buy it.

>>30842291
>Drop the mask, haggle for the gloves.

>>30842291
>Try the mask on before you decide to buy it.
screw the gloves, buts let try the mask.

>>30842291
>>Try the mask on before you decide to buy it.
>>30842325
Learn my dick in your ass, faggot.

>>30842291
Drop the mask

>>30842325
Its your fualt dumb ass.
>>30842291
>Try the mask on before you decide to buy it
We tried to put on a death mask.

>>30842325
>implying I haven't been here form the beginning and I still want to try this mask on
also
>advertising in the /qtg/
What the hell is wrong with you?

>>30842291
>Drop the mask, haggle for the gloves

>>30842291
>Try the mask on before you decide to buy it.
the gloves are way too fucking expensive and can easily replaced by using 1vys.

File: 1394851728773.jpg-(32 KB, 480x360, Satan.jpg)

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>Try the mask on before you buy it.
Writin'

>>30842291
>>Drop the mask, haggle for the gloves

>>30842388
What happened to the good idea of asking Fulvia first?

>>30842291
>Drop the mask, haggle for the gloves

>>30842350
>>30842368
>>30842371
I rest my case that you're all retarded, shitty players.