>>33496075
loot the scales, they may make for some good armor

>>33496180
You get to your feet, slightly unstable, and approach the smoking corpse. Maurice falls in behind you shortly, and together the two of you begin ripping scales from the drake's hide. It isn't easy, as the scales have the same texture and hardness of stone, but the gaping wounds make it possible to slip your fingers beneath loose scales to pull them out. After collecting about two dozen of the fist sized things, you notice townfolk begin to gather around you, curiously observing your behavior.

>

>>33496319
"I don't suppose you guys have more of these things around?"

>>33496397
You turn to the townsfolk, leaving Maurice to continue prying scales from the beast, and ask if they've seen more of it's kind. They are silent, and seem to shy away from you when you speak. That is, until one woman steps forward with a small boy hiding behind her apron.

"This creature came to warn us, months and months ago. It bore a message, that we must swear fealty to it's master or be burned. Not even our greatest knights were a match in single combat..."

>

>>33496771
"What was the master's name?"

"Are there any other villages that have these things terrorizing them?"

>>33496799
"It's master is Dordak Khan. A terrible behemoth who's wings blot out the sun." You scratch your chin. It's the same name the other northerners gave you when you questioned them.

"All the small villages have been conscripted by force to serve Dordak Khan. He forces them to prepare his meals, clean his lair, wait on him hand a foot, everything. The five great cities only stand so that we may toil in his name, and larger towns remain safe only until he has want of their people."

>

>>33496942
ask where the lair is located

>>33496975
"Dordak Khan's lair is to the far east, beneath the Godly Falls. He corrupts that sacred place with his evil taint, but none are powerful enough to challenge such an ancient and powerful abomination." Their stories match up with those you heard before. Perhaps this Dordak is truly the threat they make him out to be. Then again, you've still met no one who's actually laid eyes on him.

>

>>33497110
try and find our merchant friend to see how he's doing

>>33497159
You take the scales you've collected and slip them into your bag. Rather than stick around to talk to a crowd of rubberneckers, you decide to move on and see if you can't locate your chum.

The market is empty when you arrive, with stands clearly having been looted and overturned in the chaos of the attack. There is no sign of anyone at the moment, but there are eyes peeking down from the windows. You look around at them, but they do not reveal themselves. Finally, the great horn from earlier sounds again, and in mere moments people begin filing out of the buildings all around to return to their business. Though they try to get things back on track, it's clear as day that all of them are shaken and excited by the events of just a few minutes ago.

Maurice taps your shoulder, and points you to something. In the distance you spot your man as he tries to scoop up what remains of his wares and put them back into the baskets for display. He seems quite distraught.

>

>>33497350
"So, I see you're still alive."

>>33497445
"Yes, well, I wish I could say that my products had fared as well as I. Still, no use crying over spilled milk, eh? One bad harvest won't sink our farm, no sir. How did you manage to survive that monstrosity?"

>

>>33497695
"By caving it's head in."

>>33497766
He looks at you with a humorous smile at first, then disbelief, then outright skepticism.

"As mighty a stature as you sport, sir, you can't truly expect me to believe you bested such a terrible beast alone! Ha! What rubbish!"

>

>>33497985
"Hey, how much to drake scales sell for?"

Pull out some

>>33498081
You reach into your bag and produce an armful of scales. At first, he only scoffs, then slowly he comes to understand the truth. He steps closer and scoops one up, examining it.

"I'd call you a liar if you didn't have so many, but truly you did slay the beast. I say, kudos. Sadly, I fear no merchant would take these unless he were a collector. No use for them, as far as I know."

>

>>33498167
Well, I'll think of something. Where are you headed now?

>>33498167
"that's a shame"

treat him to a meal for his troubles.

talk to maurice. how long should we wait for the girls to arrive?

>>33498194
>>33498236
You put the scales away, and ask where he's going now.

"Well, as my produce is all but totalled, I suspect I'll rest for the night and head home in the morning." You offer him a meal for his comfort. "I appreciate the though, but I'd rather rest today and get an early start. Ancient beasts do wear out a man, eh?"

You turn to Maurice and ask about Pietra and Kor. He informs you that by now they'll be three or four days off by horse, and likely speaking to the representatives of the Holy City of Ice.

>

>>33498354
might as well hunker down.

practice using the shield and the hammer

ask Maurice what we can do to study the hammer and it's markings

>>33498399
You and Maurice decide to rest for the night. With what gold you each have you find a decent inn and get a room together. As you peel off your dented mail and kick off your boots, you take up the shield and hammer and begin playing with them a bit, to grow used to their weight. After a few minutes, you find it incredibly difficult to properly swing the hammers weight and heft while also holding onto your shield. It seems using both in combat will be quite a gamble on your own safety. After a bit of practice, you sit on the bed and turn to Maurice, who is busy flipping through a small note. You ask him about the hammers markings.

"You forget sir, my specialty is the magic of the great swamp. These northern markings are as alien to me as they are to you. The two arts do not even share a common ancestor. The best I could do is place my own runes on the weapon to assist you, and even then it would do little more than make the weight more bearable."

>

>>33498522
wake up next morning, talk to the guards or whoever is in charge of the town. See what can be done about the drake's body.

Maybe prepare defenses as well? Another drake may come by again.

>>33498522
Nah. There's alway the risk that it'll affect the enchantments already in place.
All we can do is keep training with it, possibly look into other sources of information on northern runic magics.

>>33498606
>>33498629
You tell Maurice not to worry about it, and he seems content. The two of you have a small meal and turn in for the night later.

The next morning you wake, strap on your equipment, and head out together. Already people are gathering around the corpse of the drake, kicking and spitting at it even as civil servants attempt to clear it away. You think it best to try and lend a hand to the town and seek out the person in charge. You spot what is clearly the foreman, judging by her fine dress and mass of scrolls and writing tools, as well as a man in decorated armor who is ordering less well chiseled men to hold the crowd at bay.

>

>>33498708
Greet them and ask for their names.
Ask what they intend to do in the dead beast's wake

>>33498741
You approach both of them and greet them warmly. Neither look very happy to see you. You ask what they mean to do with the corpse of the drake. The woman is first to respond.

"This monster is property of the city of Ferris, and what the government decides to do with him is not the business of southerners. I suggest you be on your way."

>

>>33498816
"just out of curiosity, won't their master send more drakes this way when he's found out one of them has died?"

>>33498863
You ask about the possibility of another drake coming to avenge this one, and the woman does seem troubled. She swallows her tension and responds, quite professionally.

"We have no reason to believe there will be any more attacks. What's more important is that we locate the man responsible for slaying this creature, as he is wanted by the police. If you see anything suspicious, please let us know."

>

>>33498982
nod and leave. But keep an eye on them from a distance and see what they're doing to the body and/or where they're taking it.

>>33498982
>>33499021
Yup.

>>33499021
>>33499074
You agree, and begin moving away. The two of them turn back to their work, and you reach a safe distance before beginning to observe them. After a few minutes of watching you determine that the chunks are divided into bones and other viscera. The bones are carted away and toward a large tower near the center of the city, whereas everything else is taken to what appears to be a large bonfire in the distance.

>

>>33499125
probably there to burn the evidence.

Maurice knows necromancy, right? Let's ask him if he can resurrect the thing in our service? Hypothetically.

>>33499125
Investigate the bonfire. The tower is a less immediate concern.

>>33499166
You turn to ask Maurice if he might be able to raise the drake and have it do your bidding. He turns to you slowly, mouth slightly agape, and you can see the twinkle of childlike wonder in his eyes.

"S-sir, I...I never thought you'd... It will take some preparation but I... oh my I am feeling a tad woozy."

>

>>33499225
tell him to calm down and get on with it

>>33499225
wait for it.. Let's just see what they're doing with the body. If another drake comes, then resurrect it to do battle. But make some preparations all the same

>>33499225
...oh dear. This sounds like it could backfire horribly.
Lets look into things first, before we consider... this.

>>33499303
yeah, let's hold off for a bit and think it through. The idea was hypothetical, afterall

>>33499335
but.. on the other hand having an undead Drake doing your bidding now that.. that would be quite something...

>>33499363
there'll be others to kill

>>33499376
Very well, lets see how this plays out..

>>33499253
You give Maurice the go ahead, and he begins to rock back and forth excitedly. He reaches deep into his robes and begins extracting several items with which you are not familiar. There are several vials of white powder, chalk, some black ash, and a single green gem. He hurriedly arranges the gem in the center of a large chalk circle, and townspeople begin gathering to watch as he does.

"Raise it... yes yes I can raise it... oh mother if you could see you baby boy now, living as few men dare to dream. AS FEW MEN DARE TO DREAM!" This scream alerts the police, and they approach to investigate. Fortunately for you, they cannot penetrate the crowd and have no real reason to force their way through.

Soon Maurice has completed the circle and begins speaking over it as the gem in the center spins slowly in place. His words are alien and meaningless to you, but you can see his hair beginning to stand on end, and the chalk circle beginning to glow dully. He pours the white vials into five points on the circle, and continues chanting. The people around join in, speaking no words but matching his tones and inflection. The police seem dazzled by the spectacle.

"Oh, Tartarus who's belly consumes the damned, I beg the for a glimpse into your ancient maw, so that I may scrape thy tooth and bring this beast back from your mighty jaws! Deliver him to me!"

The gem glows bright red, and spins out of control, bouncing around the chalk circle at lighting speeds. Maurice laughs maniacally and the crowd backs away. Suddenly the gem reaches the center again and stops. The circle ceases glowing, and the white dust is all spent. Maurice picks the gem out and uses his foot to wipe away a bit of the circle.

"For you, sir."

>

>>33499487
Hm.. have him hold off for a moment... first, ask what's with the gem.

>>33499584
seconded i wanna find out what that is.

>>33499584
>>33499609
You examine the gem in his hand and ask what it's purpose is.

"I had to dowse for the drake's soul, sir. I wasn't entirely sure it had one, but here it is. With a little coaxing and a great deal of necromantic power, I was able to seal it and bend it to my whims. Or rather, your whims. We only need reunite this with the beast's remains. Once we've done that, it will be unable to disobey us. Not even fear of death will be enough to dissuade it."

>

>>33499672
"Would it's ashes be usable for this purpose?"

I was thinking of storing the soul and remains separately for future use, if necessary. I don't want to create an abomination of nature right away.

>>33499704
"Any of its remains will serve, no matter the state. Naturally, the better condition they're in and the more we have, the less time it will take. If it were up to me, I'd use it now."

>

>>33499781
"I know, but I'm looking to keep this thing in reserve. You know, keep it in holding until we find the right time to use it. Besides, I'd rather not piss off the missus right now."

>>33499781
take a couple of it's fangs, scales and claws

>>33499852
>>33499867
You tell Maurice that you want to have this in your back pocket for an emergency. He doesn't seem to understand, but you know what you're doing. You think about trying to sneak over to grab a piece, but you recall the ten pounds of scales you already have with you. As Maurice said, any remains will serve, so it might be better to stick with what you've got. Then again, he did say more is better.

>

>>33500028
Go to the bonfire and see what you can pilfer. If it's too risky to pilfer stuff, wait until it's ash and take some in a bowl or some other container

>>33500115
You tell Maurice to follow you, and together you follow the plume if grey smoke in the distance to reach a great and empty square. When you enter, you are surprised by how badly the place has been damaged. Judging my the terrible black scorches covering every stone building, not to mention the shattered windows and still black charred bits of wood, this is the place the drake struck as a warning long ago. In the center of the square, where once stood what was likely a statue above a shimmering pool, is now a brick pit with burning skin and muscle, as well as mushed organs. You get as close as you can, but the town guard appears to stop you. They warn you that this place is dangerous for civilians, and only those with clearance by the city may approach.

>

>>33500285
ok, back off, let's wait it out until the fire dies

>>33500285
lets back off, we don't want to piss off the city guard. At least, not yet...

>>33500308
>>33500343
You decide to leave the scene alone for now. You take Maurice and find a spot nearby to sit and wait.

Several hours later, civil servants are still bringing fresh bits of drake to burn. It doesn't seem like they'll be stopping until after dark.

>

>>33500425
might as well do something else. See if there's a play in town. maybe it'll give some insight into the North's mythology and stuff.

also, ask maurice if there are ways to dispose of the gem and destroy the soul, just in case.

>>33500463
You decide to kill time until nightfall. You beckon Maurice and the two of you begin walking aimlessly, looking for something to eat the hours. Along the way, you question Maurice a bit on the properties of the stone.

"The stone is indestructible so long as the soul is contained within. Souls cannot be destroyed. Once it's been spent, it becomes brittle. Until then, no mortal magic could sunder it."

>

>>33500717
So that means we have to use it in order to break it ?

>>33500717
"is there a way to extract the soul and just send it back to the afterlife?"

>>33500737
>>33500744
"No, sir. I spent most of my life making sure my magic was foolproof in that regard. Years of study to create a perfect container for a living soul. The only way to release that soul again is to completely annihilate the drake's body, and mundane fire wouldn't serve thankfully, as it's a magical creature. Were it any other beast, the ashes would be useless."

>

>>33500855
right, good to know.

so, what's the play about?

>>33500894
The two of you find a small theater, and are able to get in at a cut rate due to the town being all but choked by the attack. The seats are nearly empty, save for a dozen or so other patrons, most of them children. You and Maurice take seats near the front and wait for it to begin.

It starts out with a boy tending a farm. Soon, a black clad marauder appears and burns down his home. The boy runs away, and discovers a mountain with a lode of ore jutting from the side. He uses stones to break off the ore, and spends ages melting it and forging it into a hammer. When he's finished, a stout man with a great beard enters, riding a chariot pulled by a bull. He says something to the boy, and the boy raises the hammer up. Then, he goes back to find the marauder and strikes him down with the hammer, causing lightning and thunder to erupt in the sky.

At the end of the story, the boy uses his hammer to mine more of the ore from the mountain where he hid, and eventually he makes a crown from it, and presumably becomes a king. This is all you can tell, since the singing is in northern tongue.

>

>>33501101
nice.

now we have the hammer's back story

let's go check up on the bonfire.

>>33501101
Jeer at the actors when they come out to bow

>>33501183
>>33501198
As the actors come out, presumably to thank the audience for watching, you proceed to boo them. They take it in stride, surprisingly, but it doesn't help that nobody else joins in. Still, you got your point across. With that out of the way, you and Maurice go back to check on the bonfire.

Sure enough, the square has cleared out. All that remains is the fire pit, and a mix of black and white ash.

>

>>33501370
jump into the ash and do snow angels

>>33501370
take the ash in a container. a bag or a bowl or a canteen of sorts.

>>33501406
>>33501440
You and Maurice approach the pool of ash. You order Maurice to begin gathering some of it, and he complies. Meanwhile, you step in yourself and roll around a bit. Maurice joins you shortly, and soon the two of you are covered in white powder.

"Who's there?" You pop up and see an orange light approaching. Someone has come to investigate the ash pool.

>

>>33501772
slink away. no need to cause any further trouble

>>33501772
make the most horrifying faces you can and tilt your head to the side making the same sound the girl in the grudge makes

>>33501794
You and Maurice hop out and make a beeline for the nearest exit. Unfortunately, there is no nearest exit, as all roads beside the one you came from are sealed by wood and brick barriers denoting the danger of structural collapse beyond.

>

>>33501914
does maurice have anything that can act as a distraction? Use it to lure away any pursuers down a different path

>>33501937
This

>>33501937
>>33502001
You ask Maurice for a distraction. He begins hastily digging through his robes, and eventually pulls out a bulb-shaped bottle of red liquid.

"This is all I have, I'm afraid. It may not be a good idea."

>

>>33502036
ok, then let's just break or hop over a wall.

>>33502036
don't use it and prepare yourself for a scuffle

>>33502036
"Why not?"

>>33502069
>>33502076
You try to climb the wall instead, but it being quite high and smooth, and you being weighed down by nearly fifty pounds of steel, you are unable to reach the top. By the time you turn back to Maurice, it's too late, and the lantern bearer has rounded the corner. He holds the light up to you, blinding you to his face.

"Eh? Who goes there? What are you doing in this place?"

>

>>33502191
act drunk

>>33502191
punch him in the throat break the lantern and then run

>>33502226
Voting for this

>>33502210
>>33502226
You begin to sway on your feet a bit, hoping to feign intoxication and avoid being pinned for a crime higher than being drunk in public. The lantern bearer approaches.

"Alright you, come with me and-" As he draws within arm's reach, you lash out with a closed fist and strike him in the throat. He coughs and falls over, affording you a chance to escape.

>

>>33502306
run

>>33502320
Seconded

>>33502306
and now we haul it like a black man who just stole KFC's secret recipe

>>33502320
>>33502336
You and Maurice leap over the collapsed form of the lantern bearer and rush back the way you entered the square. You continue to run, not looking back, until you have taken a sufficient number of turns and sidestreets to feel you have no chance of being tracked.

You find a bench and sit, catching your breath. Maurice plops down beside you. The night is dark and chill, and the two of you are still covered in white ash. No doubt you'll be reported soon, as well. You might try leaving the city, but there is something that compels you to stay, though you've no sure idea what.

>

>>33502411
move to the outskirts and get rid of the ash on you

>>33502429
You and Maurice rest a while, then rise up again and begin taking the backstreets toward the town exit. You do your best to be spotted by any guards on patrol, and besides a few wayward looks nobody seems to notice you in the dark.

You make it to the town limits and run out, heading for the stretch of trees a quarter mile away. Once safely hidden from view, you and Maurice both begin shaking and dusting your clothes. You can't get all the ash off, but you do get enough to make it look like you only got caught cleaning a flue.

>

>>33502600
try to make our way back into town. we did have a place to stay, right?

>>33502628
The two of you begin making your way back again, trying to act as nonchalant as possible. Unfortunately when you arrive, most shops are long since closed, and even the innkeepers have turned in. You've no place to stay, but plenty of coin.

>

>>33502880
Do we know where the merchant was staying? Let's go there and see if he'll be hospitable

>>33502909
seconded

>>33502909
>>33502992
He left this morning

>>33503039
alright, then, just start up a fire in a reclusive place and take turns at watch until morning.

>>33503057
seconded

>>33503057
>>33503076
You and Maurice travel together and find a suitable alley to camp out in. With the help of his magic, you're able to make a fire that burns on very little fuel, and set up a single watch rotation.

At dawn, you both rouse and prepare for the day.

>

>>33503298
find an inn to check into

>>33503310
You go together to find a decent inn for the day. You are forced to wait until a bit later in the morning, but once you do you put down coin for a room.

>

ask the Innkeep where you can find a weapons
merchant
>>33503333

>>33503333
stay in the room and just rest.

How many days before the girls get here?

>>33503360
I don't understand why you think they're coming

>>33503360
oh, well, then we should just get the hell out of this bloody little town.

my mistake. I thought they were coming to us. Let's go to them.

>>33503447
sorry, was referring to you>>33503426

>>33503447
You decide it's time to skip town and find somewhere else to stay. Maurice releases a sigh of deep relief, expressing his exasperation at having been forced to remain here even this long. You will not however be getting your deposit back.

You exit the inn and look around. The town seems to be returning to normal. People are walking, talking, shopping and working. Across the road you spot a guard talking to a young woman holding a basket of flowers. You can't make out their words, but he seems to be holding something for her to look at, seemingly a sheet of paper, and after nodding for a bit she speaks, and points over toward you.

>

>>33503572
try to find a crowd to blend into

>>33503572
Book it like a Negro getting profiled by a cop

>>33503594
I retract my statement lets do this instead

>>33503594
>>33503625
You turn away from them and start turning into the flow of the people. Maurice follows your example, although neither of you are particular talented at this sort of thing. You continue down the street, trying to ignore the fact that you're an enormous man in plate armor.

"You! Stop! That man is wanted!"

>

>>33503698
book it.

if you see anything that you can push or shove into their path, do so. If it's an oil barrel or something, even better to spill the contents

>>33503712
You break into a run, shoving aside innocent men and women as you try to make your way through the crowded street. You look back just long enough to make sure Maurice is on you, and keep going.

You round a corner and use all your strength to knock over a cart peddling melons, which make for excellent deterrent. This short pause costs you, however, as three guards spot you and shout at you to halt and face arrest.

>

>>33503787
just keep running and delaying them.

see if you can commandeer a wagon or some horses

>>33503804
seconded grand theft horse and/or cart may be your only way out of this

>>33503804
>>33503854
You continue running and weaving through the people in the street, desperately searching for a faster mode of transport. You spot two horses tied in front of a shop, and they may be your best bet. You turn back and see that the number of guards has risen to nearly ten.

>

>>33503958
cut ties with this town and bolt on the horses

>>33503958
quickly unhitch the horses get on them and then shout "Ride like the wind Bullseye!" and ride out of town as fast as you can

>>33503974
>>33503988
You make a mad dash for the horses and with one mighty swing of your bastard sword, you slice the tethers free. You give Maurice a quick boost and then mount your own horse before kicking into its sides and taking off. The guards begin falling behind soon, huffing and puffing and throwing their heavy spears out of desperation. In little more than a minute, they are out of site.

Suddenly there is the sound of the horn blasting again, ringing out for all the town to hear. This time however, it sounds different.

Maurice seems to spy the curious look on your face, and advises strongly that you not slow down.

>

>>33504049
then don't slow down

>>33504049
>>33504066
seconded don't slow down at all and making a small of a target as you can of yourself while hauling ass

>>33504066
>>33504096
You kick your horses into top speed and make for the city limits. People dive out of the way as you streak past them, and soon enough you spy the open road. You're almost home free.

"That's far enough!" Before you emerges a man in black and gold armor with a regal but impractical helmet and cloak. He holds before him two sword, one long and thin and the other curved and heavy. He places himself right in the middle of the road, and braces for you.

>

>>33504217
kick him in the helmet as you pass by

>>33504217
Have Maurice split off and go around him while we act as if we're charging the guy. we jump off the horse in a feint

>>33504267
You ride on without slowing, and just as you are about to reach him, you extend your leg. This proves to be a mistake, as he lashes out with the hooked blade and sinks it into your leg, dragging you from the horse. You hit the ground with a great clatter, bashing your head on the cobblestones. You try to recover and get back on your feet, but he is upon you rapidly, grabbing you from behind and holding his blade up to your throat. He is incredibly strong, but you aren't as powerful as you once were either.

>

>>33504414
signal to Maurice to hit him with something, so we can escape

>>33504447
seconded this is all my fault >.<

>>33504447
>>33504489
You attempt to summon Maurice, thought it's unclear how efficient you can be while your trachea is being crushed. Suddenly you are spun around and hit directly on the chest with a burst of intense flame. You hear Maurice's apology as you are blown backward and on top of the gold and black clad man. You feel your chestplate burning you even through the padding as you are wrestled into your stomach and have your face shoved into the floor.

>

>>33504731
shout out to Maurice to fire off a spell. meanwhile, we try to wrestle the guy off of us. If we can, use the dagger and blast him

>>33504780
>>33504780
use said dagger to stab into the gaps of the guys armor

>>33504810
>>33504780
>>33504731
no, use the dagger to wing blast him off

>>33504845
wing blast?

>>33504933
wind blast

>>33504986
Our dagger does that? Shit, wind blast the fuck out of him then

>>33504780
You ask Maurice to fire another spell, but it's uncertain whether he can. In the meantime, you reach behind your back for your dagger, somehow assuming it wouldn't be grabbed and pinned between your shoulderblades, causing you terrible pain in your shoulder. You grit your teeth as the heavy man sets a knee in the small of your back and punches the back of your head, forcing you to taste dirt.

"Got you right where I want you, punk! You're coming with me!" You try to break free but his weight and strength are just above your ability to overcome. Just then, you see something streak by. A card, burning with blue fire rests on the ground before you, just out of reach.

>

>>33505018
cover our head or something, I think it's going to do something

>>33505018
>>33505052
ditto

>>33505052
>>33505066
You shut your eyes and look away, that being the best defense you have with both arms occupied, and wait for the card to take effect. After a few moments of waiting, nothing happens, and the flame fizzles out. You are then hoisted up and to your feet, and shoved into a group of four guardsmen who begin manhandling you and trying to restrain you. They are significantly weaker than the man who brought you down, but together they still prove too much. You struggle as they grab Maurice and bind his hands and gag him, cutting him off from his magic. The gold and black knight approaches you, spitting on the ground as he grabs you by the nose and forces you to look him in the eye.

"Damned be it all, I've been trying to get my hands on you for days. Well there'll be no running now, you bastard."

>

>>33505262
remind me, do we have any spells of our own?

>>33505262
Hawk a big ass loogie and spit right into his eye

>>33505262
should probably make a pastebin of what items we have and what abilities we can use. it's kind of hard to remember everything

>>33505303
There was a time when you had spells. As of now you've got a backpack full of random junk, a bastard sword, the magic shield, the hammer, the dagger, and some cash.

>>33505356
seconded I have absolutely no freakin clue what we got other than the Drake's soul gem and scales...

>>33505382
Honestly? I can't think of a way out of this, because I was hoping we'd just coast on as being drunkards that they wouldn't pay much heed to. Now we're probably going to be charged with assault amongst other things

>>33505382
well, we've called on our god before. Let's see if Ross is feeling generous today

>>33505438
yeah, same here.. and i believe it's my fault we're in this situation...>>33505262
smile pleasenty and stare at him straight in the eyes

>>33505487
>>33505491
You stand smiling, clearly annoying the knight, but he does not attempt to harm you further. As the guards talk amongst themselves, you shut your eyes and try to make some sort of contact with Ross.

"It's a pleasure to meet you, sir. My name is Viviana, and I've been sent by the city's governing council to escort you into our hospitality." You open your eyes and behold a tall, buxom woman in a dress that is far too tight not to be tailored. She wears glasses and carries a large writing pad under one arm, extending the other in greeting. Your right arm is released by the guards, slightly numb but fully functional.

>

>>33505560
shake your arm and flex your fingers making sure they all work and then say "Pleasure to meet you Viviana I wish we could have met under different circumstances."

>>33505560
I'd refrain from shaking. First, ask what we're here about.

also, how's contacting Ross going?

>>33505595
>>33505609
You test your hand for damage. It it a bit numb, and the joints in your shoulder and elbow are sore, but the responsiveness seems fine. You extend your free hand and grasp Viviana's, shaking briefly before pulling it away. You try to pour on a little charm, but in the back of your head you are focused on connecting with Ross, which doesn't seem to be going so well at the moment.

"I understand you were the man who slew the drake two days ago. I must say that's quite impressive. If you'll just follow me, we have much to discuss."

>

>>33505772
"Follow you where?"

>>33505786
seconded. try to find out where and if you're in trouble and if you are in trouble how much shit you're in but do it suavely...

>>33505786
>>33505817
You ask where exactly you're being taken. Viviana adjusts her glasses, and you think you detect a hint of annoyance.

"I have been ordered to see you to the municipal office to speak to you about signing a private contract. Rest assured you will be treated as a valued guest."

>

>>33505896
"as long as we get our stuff back and can get back to our travels, I'll play along."

>>33505955
this

>>33505955
>>33506010
You agree to go along with her, so long as your possessions will be returned and your freedom maintained. She nods, and snaps her fingers. You are released by the guards, and so is Maurice.

You follow Viviana, escorted by the guards and the gold-black knight down the city streets and past hundreds of curious citizens. Eventually you reach a large building made of marble, or something like it. Viviana leads you inside, down a few halls, up some stairs, and to a large wooden door.

"This is the office of our current leader. He has secluded himself inside since the first drake attack, but has made it a point to speak to you. Your friend will have to wait out here, with the escort, I'm afraid."

>

>>33506135
"He and I are a package deal."

>>33506149
>>33506135
"anything he says to me can be said to my friend here."

>>33506149
>>33506204
You assert that you will not leave Maurice out of your sight. You look back and see a warm smile on his face. When you turn back to Viviana, she seems less than pleased.

"Very well then. Please follow me." Viviana grasps the knob and enters, and the two of you follow. "Please take the seats before you." You spot two chairs set before a large wooden desk. Behind the desk is a tall chair turned to face a rear window that overlooks the outside. Bookshelves line every other wall, as well as paintings of noble looking men. You each sit as Viviana approaches the tall chair. You begin to ask what the meeting is about when suddenly Viviana swivels the chair around to reveal that it is empty. You and Maurice both rise up in an instant, but with a snap of Viviana's fingers Maurice collapses onto the floor. Another snap and the door behind you locks tight. Viviana herself gracefully sits herself in the tall chair, setting down her writing pad and crossing her legs slowly. She adjusts her glasses and folds her arms in her lap.

"Now, let's begin."

>

>>33506297
"What did you do to him and what do you want?"

>>33506297
also, the writin stuff is nice at times, but I've come to feel that not having prewritten choices has made me somewhat aimless. They did provide a sense of direction at times.

>>33506343
True. It's rather enjoyable though, seeing as how you have no clue what other people are going to do.

>>33506383
the problem is that we're technically on a mission, and some reminders every now and then about things relating to the main objective kind of help

>>33506412
Yeah, I definitely agree with you on that when theres no reminders you kinda get caught up in whatever you feel like doing next..

>>33506324
"Please relax, sir. I assure you I have no intention of harming you or your friends. In fact it was one of your companions who told me of your arrival. I believe her name was Pietra, your spouse. She arranged a contract with us, where we would provide our city's most prized relic in exchange for your services. I wouldn't have agreed, but my predecessor was a slave to the dice. He bet on the deal and lost. As you can see he is no longer in power. Now initially I was going to arrest you and confiscate the relic, but seeing as how you did in fact render services by slaying the beast that threatened to destroy our city, I suppose I cannot back down now. Still, I would like to ask you a few questions."

A) Fuck off
B) Fine
C) I need the hammer
D) Pietra doesn't speak for me
E) Other

>>33506454
>B) Fine

>>33506454
thanks, rags

>>33506454
>B)fine

>>33506482
>>33506530
You agree to answer the questions, sensing no immediate danger.

"First, why do you desire our relic?"

A) To slay Dordak Khan
B) None of your concern
C) To hang some portraits
D) Other

>>33506502
Love you, Wren

>>33506555
>A) To slay Dordak Khan

>>33506555

>A) To slay Dordak Khan

>>33506568
>>33506610
You answer honestly. Her face is as surprised as everyone else's upon hearing this response.

"That is... a strange response. Though I do recall reading on the necessity of magical weapons to slay a beast of such magnitude. And if I recall correctly, your spouse also asked that we consider joining our armed forces to your cause? Do you really intend to take the north by force in order to combat Dordak Khan?"

A) I do. It's the only way
B) I won't force anyone to fight
C) I had no such intention
D) Other

>>33506682
>B) I won't force anyone to fight

>>33506682
also,

We have no intention of conquering the North

>>33506682
>B) You won't force anyone to fight if they don't want to

>>33506704
>>33506735
You assure her that you have no intention of forcing anyone to fight against their will, but you do wish to ask. The more against Dordak Khan, the better the odds. You also mention that you have no intention of making the north yours.

"I see. I'm afraid that isn't what your spouse said. I believe her words were, oh yes I wrote them down. Ahem, 'When my love arrives, he will bend the monster's neck and tear away it's head. While it's blood is still hot, he will mount the north as he mounts me in our bed, and make it his as he made me his all those nights ago. Then you too will know his firm but gentle hand, as well as peace and happiness.' Yes those were her words. You're saying she spoke false?"

A) She did
B) That's not completely true
C) Well I can't argue with that
D) Other

>>33506846
facepalm
b

File: 8j29h.jpg (38 KB, 480x337)

38 KB JPG

>>33506846
also, I believe this expression is appropriate.

>>33506878
You explain that her words were merely hyperbole and exaggeration. Viviana's face builds a little color, but she clears it away by adjusting her glasses once more.

"Very well. So, since you've got the relic, I suppose you'll be wanting access to our ores and foundries then, to equip your own troops?"

A) That's correct
B) That's not necessary
C) About the mounting
D) Other

>>33506846
>>33506878
Yeah...
>B) facepalm...

>>33506952
D
If you can spare them.

>>33506952
>D) Other "Well whilst I would prefer that it is not completely necessary however it would be an immense help towards this campaign."

>>33506952
remind us to discipline Pietra for this crass behavior. While in bed.

>>33506995
agreed no wife of ours will behave like this towards others and ruin our reputation.

>>33506974
>>33506982
You explain that you will not force this plan upon the city, but that it would greatly aid the mission. Viviana sighs.

"I see. Well, as much as I would like to support your cause, and while I do think you might have the might to defeat Dordak Khan, I'm afraid I need more insurance if I am to invest the resources of this town to you. That is, if you're willing to hear my terms." A sly smile comes across her face now. It's a bit unsettling.

A) That's quite alright
B) Go ahead
C) Other

>>33507074
let's hear it.

>>33507074
>B) go ahead

>>33507086
>>33507094
You cross your arms and agree to listen.

"As you can plainly see, what our men lack in fitness and skill, they make up for in quality of tools. We have the greatest industry in the north. That being the case, our help is a great boon to you. And while I am willing to do business with you, there may be a better option. I will agree to provide you as many men, weapons, and as much armor as you require so long as you agree to one thing." Viviana stands and rests a hand on her hip. Something about her posture seems off. "When you conquer the north, make me indisputable queen ruler of Ferris."

A) I can't do that
B) Fine
C) I refuse
D) Other

>>33507184
A) I can't do that
1. Because I'm not conquering the north
2. I don't think I'm qualified to designate people rulers of countries.

>>33507243
ditto. We're not out to conquer we're here to kill the largest threat to the land

>>33507243
>>33507268
You refuse on the grounds that you have no intention of conquering the north in the first place. Viviana seems to grow upset at this.

"I'm sorry to say, sir, that your spouse and I had an agreement. I let her go, and I collect payment upon your arrival. So far I've rendered nearly all the services I can, and yet I have yet to receive anything in return. I am more than willing to pledge the power of this city, and all I ask is that my rule be made official. Surely you can agree? I can even help you take the other great cities." Viviana continues to grow upset.

A) Pietra does not speak for me
B) I'll consider it
C) Fine, if I have your word
D) I will pay you some other way
E) Other

>>33507337
>B) I'll consider it

>>33507337
unfortunately i'm going to have to go with
>A) Pietra does not speak for me

>>33507337
You know what I retract my statement
>B
lets not close any doors that might come in handy

>>33507356
>>33507439
You agree to consider her proposition. However when you look back up at her you find she is still not satisfied.

"Very well. I am no stranger to bargaining. Of course you wouldn't split your domain into pieces so soon after conquering it, especially for someone with whom you hold no bond. I was hoping to save this card for an emergency, but you drive too hard." Viviana moves around the desk and approaches you, coming uncomfortably close. "Your spouse spoke of your... unusual relationship. I understand that polygamy is one of the old practices of your homeland, and I am willing to accommodate your tastes if it means securing my seat." Viviana begins puling free the strings that secure her gown. This reveals her undergarments as her collar and torso coverings fall away. "I will allow you the... use of my form and... and my feminine traits. In exchange for this and my hand, as well as the cities resources, you will make me regent of Ferris. This is fair, I trust?"

At this point you are face first in her bust. Maurice could not be incapacitated at a worse time, as now would be the perfect moment for an explosive escape.

A) Refuse
B) Accept
C) Other

>>33507569
>C) Other
What you do with your town is up to you. If I feel like your resources are worth investing in, you'll hear from me.

If you require payment, I'm sure I'll find something in the dragon's lair that'll satisfy you.

Now, if you don't mind, I have a dragon to slay.

>>33507356
I really want to say yes because those resources would be useful.. on the other hand I kinda wanna do the daring escape just to see how it will play out...

>>33507598
>>33507614
You outright refuse. This time, she is visibly angered. You prepare for the worst.

"Hm. If this is a question of my faith, or my purity then I assure you I do not go back on my word, nor have I ever seen fit to take another man to my bed. Until today I have been able to get by on wit and grace, but clearly you are too well worn to be swayed by mere words. Very well." Viviana turns and faces the desk, standing up against it. "I will... allow you to consummate our union and the closing of our exchange. Your spouse spoke very highly of your... capabilities and appetites. I am prepared to surrender myself for what I desire. Please begin."

The door is locked, and Maurice is still incapacitated by whatever magic she used. You should be able to grab him and make a break for it, but you aren't sure how sturdy the door is, and you can't be certain you'll survive the fall if you take the window.

A) Door
B) Window
C) Accept
D) Other

>>33507696
>A) Door
walk on out

"You'll get a portion of what we find in the lair. Maybe you can use whatever wealth there is to gain an advantage, but that's all the help I'll be giving you if you keep acting like this."

>>33507747
>>33507696
and grab Maurice

>>33507747
>>33507764
You stand and scoop up Maurice, tossing him over your shoulder. You make your way to the door, offering a portion of what the dragon's lair holds but nothing more in exchange for the cities power. As you reach the door, you of course find it locked. You attempt to unlock it, as one should be able to from the inside of a room, but no matter which direction you turn the lever the door refuses to budge.

"Of course I wouldn't create a lock that could simply be forced open." You turn to see Viviana sat on her desk, legs crossed. "Money is something I have. Authority as well. But every day that goes by I risk my coup being discovered. This is why I need you. I tried reasoning, and I tried bargaining, but neither has worked. I'll ask you to reconsider my offers once more before I am forced to take what I need from you." Viviana reaches into her dress and produces a wooden dowel that you take to be some sort of wand.

A) Accept
B) Draw steel
C) Other

>>33507837
>C) Other
make as if we are to put Maurice down on a chair, by coming in close to her. If we still have that bag of blue powder, consider loosening it while it's out of her view and then tossing it her way.

as she's distracted, knock her out

>>33507837
charge her and flip the desk on top of her

>>33507899
You come up with a plan. You slump your shoulders and approach the desk again. Viviana presses the dowel to her lips, enjoying your slow trot over to her. You begin setting Maurice in the chair, while stealthily reaching for your belt. The powder meant to banish spirits is still there, and you are able to quietly pull it loose. When you finally get Maurice settled, you turn to face Viviana.

"See? Now, let's talk numbers. Three children for three companies seems fair, but-" at that moment, you bring your arm back and toss the pouch at her face. It collides spilling blue powder all around the room and knocking her over. She begins spitting and trying to rub the dust from her eyes, giving you precious few moments to act.

A) Pin her and take her wand
B) Break the window with a chair
C) Other

>>33508041
>A) Pin her and take her wand
knock her out as well.

>>33508041
>A) Pin her and take her wand

>>33508069
>>33508076
You spring into action, falling on Viviana and pinning her with your immense strength. She struggles to keep the wand from you, but you slide your hand from her shoulder to her wrist and grab a hold of it. She begins trying to knee you away, but your armor protects from such feeble blows.

Suddenly there is a great bang behind you. You turn back and see the door. It seems normal, but something on the other side seems to be trying to force it open. You try to get back up, but releasing Viviana now would mean giving her time to cast something. The door shakes again, and just when it seems to be done, something slices it diagonally, burning the wood. Another slash, and the door falls apart.

Standing on the other side of the frame is a slender but well filled girl with red hair tied up on her head, green eyes, and white robes over chainmail. In her right hand she holds a longsword that burns with golden flame. She looks upon you, wrestling a half nude woman on the ground of a locked office. The flames on the blade grow wild and large as she grits her teeth and narrows her brow to the point of taking on the facade of a demon.

>>33508182
Wrapping here, same time next week, love you guys.

Tune in next time for the Rags to Riches equivalent of an episode of COPS

It's archived so don't worry.

>>33508219
yay! I'm glad I stuck around that was awesome! what time next week and what day?

>>33508219
night

>>33508234
Same time and day this thread started.

>>33508264
thank's! I really look forward to it!