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>>41018471
You spend a few minutes scrounging around the Black Company encampment before realising that of course Page #137 is going to be hanging around the Shadow Pit. The thing practically feeds off darkness.

You're just about to enter the deceptively small tent when you feel what appears to be a child's hand on your shoulder. The most disturbing part of that is that you felt that sensation on your skin below your plate armour.

"Dammit #137, I told you no touching." You growl.

"But Corporal you have such... strong meaty shoulders. I can only admire your kind, tormenting and hardening your body for years...and for what? Your armour won't stop old age. Your sword won't stop disease or a failing heart." The voice is that of a childs, but with a shrill steel undertone.

You feel a small amount of sweat run down your back. You know he's Bound, but damn you forgot how unsettling Page #137 could be.
He looks like a child too, a young boy. But you know better. At the Siege of Far Sut Rus, you saw exactly what he is capable of when unleashed.

> "You done?" [DICE MEDIUM]
>Rolled 98 (previous thread) CRIT FAIL

>>41018557
You'll be damned if you have to listen to Page #137's spiel again. Steeling yourself against the unnatural cold, you turn and stare down at the creature heroically.

"Please don't hurt me."

The daemon-child cackles gleefully. He looks entirely like a human child, it's only the red eyes and deep laugh that clues the casual observer onto the fact that something is seriously wrong with this kid.

"My my, Corporal. You struck me as a braver man that that. Rest assured if I was not Bound I'd tear you and this whole miserable encampment limb from limb. But I -am- bound so here you are. Still breathing."

He looks rather put out at that. "Anyway, you know the rules."

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

>"Alright, Daemon. I'll answer one of your questions for three of mine."
>"What is it this time? What do strawberries taste like? Am I real boy? Why doesn't my daemon-daddy love me?"
>"Come on, 137. We've known each other for years now. Maybe not liked or even tolerated each other sure, but we've known each other. What could you possibly ask me?"
>"Okay, -but- if your question is 'Does the Corporal have free food for me' then the answer is yes and Breaks-Left-Arm has a small crate of rats waiting for you at his stall. (-2 SILVER)
>Fek no, what were you thinking? Get out of here before this gets worse

>>41018580
>>"Okay, -but- if your question is 'Does the Corporal have free food for me' then the answer is yes and Breaks-Left-Arm has a small crate of rats waiting for you at his stall. (-2 SILVER)
Just as I'm about to go to sleep

>>41018580
>"Okay, -but- if your question is 'Does the Corporal have free food for me' then the answer is yes and Breaks-Left-Arm has a small crate of rats waiting for you at his stall. (-2 SILVER)

>>41018580
>"Come on, 137. We've known each other for years now. Maybe not liked or even tolerated each other sure, but we've known each other. What could you possibly ask me?"

>>41018580
>"Come on, 137. We've known each other for years now. Maybe not liked or even tolerated each other sure, but we've known each other. What could you possibly ask me

>>41018580
>"Come on, 137. We've known each other for years now. Maybe not liked or even tolerated each other sure, but we've known each other. What could you possibly ask me?"
CHARACTER DEVELOPMENT

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>>41018819
>>41018821
>>41018831

You decide to play it friendly with the daemon-child. Dark Father knows you have enough enemies as it is.

"Come on, 137. We've known each other for years now. Maybe not liked or even tolerated each other sure, but we've known each other. What could you possibly ask me?"

Page #137 grins at that. "What could I possibly ask you? I've always liked questioning you, Corporal. You have that scent of destiny about you."

"Didn't you say the exact same thing to Lance-Corporal Eyesworth before he took an arrow to the throat at Weylan River?"

"...Yes well, as I recall my phrasing to him was more along the lines of 'whiff of fate'. Not the same thing at all."

"Right, so if Eyesworth gets an arrow to the throat for his 'whiff of fate' what do I get for my 'scent of destiny'?
Crossbow to the heart, trebuchet to the balls?"

You see a ghost of a smile dance across the daemon-child's eyes, his sharp-toothed smile turning genuine for a moment.
Good to see that abominations at least have a sense of humour, or perhaps it's merely a reflection of the host's personality.
He, or it, closes his eyes before speaking again.

"So then Corporal, by the Power of the Compact before your questions three you must answer a query from me."

You shuffle uncomfortaably, glancing over your shoulder to check that no one else is around. Page #137 opens its eyes, fixing
you with a hungry stare.

(Cont.)

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>>41019002
"There are few mortals on this plane that are wretched or hopeless enough to be considered irredeemable. Their souls burn like
black furnaces. You alike are tainted, but not of these. Tell me, Corporal, what is your redeeming feature?"

You feel compelled to answer truthfully, like always the words spill out of your mouth before you can stop them.
-----------------------------------------------------------

> CARING
"I Am A Father To My Men. Murderers, thieves and brigands they may be, but they are MY murderers, thieves and brigands."
>+5 to Squad Combat, +10 to diplomacy with Squad members
>Corporal Skill Tree unlocked

>COURAGEOUS
"Death Holds No Fear For Me. I didn't join the Kriegstrom Shock Troops out of a sense of self-preservation. Acts of valour and courage come easily to me."
>+5 to Personal Combat, +10 to Will
>Kriegstrom Skill Tree unlocked
(We can put down the earlier will save to a slight apprehension of things worse than death)

>LOYAL
"I Am His Loyal Servant. Our Gods abandoned us long ago, the Dark Father is the only one -worth- worshipping anymore. The only one that cares."
>+5 Will, +10 to Blackguard rolls in Squad Combat
>Blackguard Skill Tree unlocked

>>41019149
>COURAGEOUS

>>41019149
>COURAGEOUS

>>41019149
CRUNCH TIME

I should point out that you can invest points into whichever class of skill tree later on, this choice affects your first point and the base bonus you receive as a trait.

>Squad Combat
Most of the time you will be fighting alongside at least some of your fellow squadmates, if not all of them.
I will be rolling for these off-screen to speed it up. Personal Combat (between you and one or more foes) is rolled by you.
Squad Combat is decided on higher rolls, personal combat on low rolls.

EXAMPLE
Your squad comes enters combat with a squad of Neumunster troops.

x1 Neumunster Sergeant = d10
x7 Neumunster Trooper =d8 each

x5 BC Kriegstrom Trooper = d10
x2 BC Blackguard = d15

Assuming you face the sergeant in personal combat, the Neumunster would have 7d8 and your squad would have 5d10 + 2d15.

>average rolls
Neumunster = 28
Black Company = 40

The casualty threshold is 5, so the Neumunster would take 2 casualties. Casualty doesn't necessarily mean death but it's definitely possible, so don't be surprised if you find yourself digging a grave for a squaddie later down the track.

>>41019375
How do you choose which squaddie bites it?

>>41019149
>>COURAGEOUS

>>41019375
I assume skills are percent base and adding 10% to our skill means we'll need to be a DC which is 10 higher?

>>41019508
You don't, combat is a chaotic thing. The casualty will be chosen randomly, but the chance of them being instantly killed is very small. Most of the time they will be wounded and have to leave the front for aid (which still carries a chance of death).

>>41019563
Exactly. So for a Blackguard's -30 tradeoff that's really good for most of your personal rolls but absolutely suicidal on your squad rolls.

Rolled 6 + 1 (1d7 + 1)

>>41019508
>>41019614
Sorry, I mean to say I'll choose it. Two rolls on here to ensure that I'm not fluffing the roll.

1: LCPL Marcus
2: Trooper Schuster
3: Trooper Belhamun
4: Trooper Smiles-at-Dice
5: Trooper Durvano
6: Knight-of-the-Line Pietre Verdun
7: Knight-of-the-Line 'Mask' (who would minus one to the severity roll)

Second dice.
>1-2 = Tis but a scratch
Minor enough to be patched up and/or ignored. Casualty will be up and at em at the end of the combat.

>3 - 8 = Wounded
Casualty will need to be taken (or walk) to find aid. Can no longer contribute to any combat. (Further risk of death of left unsupervised)

>9-10 = Death
Exactly what it says on the tin.

>>41019734
Can't roll two dice in the same post. Best to have the players roll it, I imagine.

Rolled 4, 3 = 7 (2d7)

>>41019734
Damn, I'll change that to 2d7 rolls to simplify it.

>1 = Tis but a scratch
>2-6 = Wounded
>7 = Death

Or we could do that >>41019765
, especially if there's a lot of traffic.

Anyway, seems like COURAGEOUS is the choice here. Moving on.

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>>41019191
>>41019207
>>41019542
(Probably should have mentioned, your current HP is 15/15, same as the average Blackguard).

>Kriegstrom Skill Tree unlocked
> Cut Them Down
"Your great blade swings up and down in bloody, crimson arcs."
>If a target is at 50% HP there is a 50% chance your next hit with a Two-Handed Weapon will instantly slay them.
----------------------------------------------------------------


"There's worse things to fear than death out here, Corporal." Page #137 comments, but he seems satisfied with that answer. "So, what do you wish to know?"

---------------------------------------------------------
>The Dark Father
>The New Company Layout
>The other Merc Companies
>The Free Alliance
>The Necromancer

Choose 3.

>>41019926
Dark father, company layout, free alliance

>>41019926
>>The Dark Father
>>The New Company Layout
>>The other Merc Companies

>>41019926
>>The other Merc Companies
>>The Free Alliance
>>The Necromancer

>>41019926
>The New Company Layout
>The other Merc Companies
>The Free Alliance

>>41019926
>Did your father touch you in a bad place?
>Does your mother resent that you're a constant reminder of her rapist?
>Have your testicles dropped yet?

>>41020160
I respect you anon, you are asking the hard hitting questions

>>41019926
>The Necromancer
>The Free Alliance
>The Dark Father

>>41019926
>The Dark Father
>The New Company Layout
>Necromancer

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>>41019981
>>41020023
>>41020216
>>41020302

>DARK FATHER

"Ah, the patron God of the Blackguards. I pay little attention to the silly beleifs you mortals adhere to but I will humour you. As you know there are many 'Gods' worshipped throughout the land, some universal and others unique to races, regions or nations.
There is Caleb, the First Mortal. The Neumunster have their Saints, the Chevalisse their First King and the Wildborn have Dies-From-Dragonfire. I could go on, but the point is that these deities were once mortal, or at best demigods, during their lifetime before their Ascension. Not so for the Dark Father, he is a -true- God, and has been since the making of the world. When the other Elder Gods grew bored of their creation, some sought to destroy it before taking their leave. The Father was not the only one to object, but he -was- the only one to take up arms in this world's defence."

"Why you ask? No idea, the concept of a God risking anything on behalf of this wretched world seems like foolishness to me. They defeated him of course, torturing and tormenting him for eons on a scale that only a God could comprehend. Then they bound him in mighty chains, deep below the earth, and left him to wallow in his misery with only his precious mortals for company."

"Needless to say he went mad. I can't tell you what his intentions are now, if he still holds a grudge against his fellow Gods or instead holds it against you mortals now. If it's the latter, I hope I'm around to see the destruction he visits up your realm."

>>41020160
That's a different kind of Dark Father, I suppose.

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>>41020393
Yup That would be a dark father.

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>>41020216
>>41020076
>>41020052
>>41019981


>THE FREE ALLIANCE
"Ah yes, 'By the blood on our blades and the sweat of our brows, Elf and Man must stand together or die alone.' as the Neumunster Emperor so eloquently put it."

"The Alliance would never have come into being if three things did not occur. First, some insane Skald seeking glory slew the aging Wild King.
His powerful and cunning son took his place, with a much more expansionist approach to his rule of the Forbidden Forest."

"Then, as Albani and Chevalisse had always feared, one southern Warlord conquered the rest, warring tribe and independant city-state alike, to form the Kalgarri Dominion."

"As if that weren't bad enough the Deadlands to the East began to stir again. Any one of these threas would have been formibdable on it's own, but probably not enough for Neumunster land claims to be disregarded, Elven blood fueds forgotten or Chevalisse pride put to one side.
The utter destruction of Albani between the rampaging Wild and Kalgarri put paid to those thoughts. With the expanding Forbidden Forest to the North-West, the Dominion to the South-West and the Deadlands to the East, the Elves and Men stuck in the middle decided it was better to form one whole pie rather than three seperate, easily swallowed, slices."

"The Neumunster Empire to the North and East is without doubt the biggest player in the Free Alliance, the single largest provider of men and arms. Since the formation of the Alliance
you will find at the very least a detachment of them on any front, even if they do not share a border there. Motivated by patriotism and a semi-deification of their Emperor, the Neumunster people view faith as a personal matter, though every good citizen pays their obesience to the Saints."

(Cont)

>>41020476
Oh no you don't. This is already Dark Fantasy enough as it is.

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>>41020570
"Chevalisse to the South is a different matter, worship of the Dark Father and other undesirables is strictly forbidden. A collection of semi-autonomous fiefs, what Chevalisse lacks in its soldiery is more than made up for in zealotry."

"It's less a kingdom with a church and more a church with a kingdom. Their Orders and derivative faiths are as varied as the fiefs themselves, agreeing on little more than 'Dark Bad, Light Good'."

"Though few in number the Orders are warriors without peer, tales abound of lone souls or small bands of brothers holding back endless hordeds and slaying dread beasts."

(Cont. one more)

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>>41020570
>>41020600
>Oh no you don't. This is already Dark Fantasy enough as it is.
Kek you are lucky i deleted my sad folder.
Also here is a video version for the illiterate.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A55EzxUytXc

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>>41020600
"Finally to the West, the Elves. The Democratic Republic of Helenwood, as they call themselves, is the breadbasket of the Alliance. Foodstuffs, medicines and other essentials pour out of their bountiful land. Thanks to them the armies of the Free Alliance never go hungry or untreated. They also provide the best crossbowmen in the land."

"Demo-what of the Republic? The Fek's a Republic..." The name sounds funny on the tongue. You'd always envisioned the typical elf to be armed with a bow, but of course that's silly. They lack the required draw and upper body strength needed to compete with human archers, and the crossbow was an elven invention. Hmm yes, crossbows make much more sense for evles you decide.

"Democratic Republic of Helenwood." Page #137 repeats. "Beats me, the Elves have an odd view of civilizations. Always going on about their 'Rights' and 'God-Given Elven Liberty' whatever that means..."

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>>41019981
>>41020023
>>41020076
>>41020302

>THE NEW COMPANY LAYOUT

"Oh, you mean since the Not-Mutiny at Weylan River?"

You nod. "Yeah. Since that."

"Well we no longer have a Commander and 3 Captains, just the one Lord-Captain and her 13 Lieutenants."

"Her?" You ask icily, you can feel your gut twist. There was only one female Captain at the Battle of Weylan River.

"Lord-Captain Kiranova leads the the Black Company now."

" 'Cutthroat Kiranova? But she was one of the few that voted against taking this new contract. How did she take charge?" You're still trying to wrap your head around it, with Kiranova as Lord-Captain or whatever that... changes things.

"Intruiging, isn't it? Apart from that little has changed, each Lieutenant and his Sergeant overlook a platoon of 2 or 3 Squads each. The 7th, your platoon, and the 8th make up the Kriegstrom Scock Troops.
The 9th, 10th and 11th are Rangers, the 12th and 13th are Cavalry which leaves the rest as Infantry. At any given time the Black Company fields around 250-300 battle ready souls."

Page #137 fixes you with a suspicious stare. "What's the deal between you and the Lord-Captain anyway?"

----------------------------------------------------------
>"We... have a history."
>"I owe her my life, and that's never a good thing with 'Cutthroat' Kiranova."
>"No deal, we just don't see eye to eye is all."
>"Bugger of #137, you've already had your question. No freebies today."

>>41020869
>"We... have a history."
>"I owe her my life, and that's never a good thing with 'Cutthroat' Kiranova."
Both for best waifu, here is hoping she kills pigtails.

>>41020869
>If I answer that, I get three more questions.

>>41020944
>>41020908
Seconded try to squeeze something out of this.

>>41020944
This is also an option. But remember you will be compelled to answer honestly and entirely.

>>41020994
I will not fear my past. Let him ask.

>>41020994
Do it

>>41020994
sure go ahead.

>>41020994
Do it

>>41021153
>>41021160
>>41021207
>>41021251

"If I answer that I want more questions." You always know a bargain when you see one.

"Fine, fine." The daemon-child readily agrees. "I'm interested. But remember, it's impossible for you to lie under the Compact."

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

"Fine." You grunt, again the words flow from your mouth, every one of them the God-given truth in your eyes.

>"It was 2 years ago, under a magical Ajiyimad night-sky. I'd just been accidentally crowned as a Prince (it's really not that interesting a story), and we made love on the palace balcony. She said she loved me and I didn't know what to say. Assassin's attacked before I could respond. She's held it against me ever since."
>"Last year in Albani, when things were at their worst. We'd gotten caught up in a melee between the Wild and Kalgarri Dominion. I took scimitar to the arm and 3 arrows when my back was turned, she ended up carrying me for 8 miles. Hasn't let me live it down."
>"She was Corporal and I was her Lancer 5 years ago, in the Sabari Island. Some of the men had snuck off the encampment for a few drinks at the local inn. She found out, had the rest of the Squad bar the doors and windows, then burnt the place down with everyone inside. We've never really gotten along since then."
>All of the Above (Dark-Father Help You)

>>41021310
>All of the Above (Dark-Father Help You)
Kek lets be the reason she showed her true colours.

>>41021310
>>"It was 2 years ago, under a magical Ajiyimad night-sky. I'd just been accidentally crowned as a Prince (it's really not that interesting a story), and we made love on the palace balcony. She said she loved me and I didn't know what to say. Assassin's attacked before I could respond. She's held it against me ever since."

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>>41021310
>All of the Above (Dark-Father Help You)

>>41021310
>All of the Above
Dark Father, mercy to our soul, but this.

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>>41021310
>All of the Above (Dark-Father Help You)

>>41021310
>All of the Above (Dark-Father Help You)
but like this.
>"She was Corporal and I was her Lancer 5 years ago, in the Sabari Island. Some of the men had snuck off the encampment for a few drinks at the local inn. She found out, had the rest of the Squad bar the doors and windows, then burnt the place down with everyone inside. We've Have been butting heads for some time since then."
we kept clashing
>"It was 2 years ago, under a magical Ajiyimad night-sky. I'd just been accidentally crowned as a Prince (it's really not that interesting a story), and we made love on the palace balcony. She said she loved me and I didn't know what to say. Assassin's attacked before I could respond. She's held it against me ever since."
we became closer since we always fought
>"Last year in Albani, when things were at their worst. We'd gotten caught up in a melee between the Wild and Kalgarri Dominion. I took scimitar to the arm and 3 arrows when my back was turned, she ended up carrying me for 8 miles. Hasn't let me live it down."
While dragging us kept bitching about all we did and she should just kill us there.

Well, I'm glad we've sorted out the OneTrueWaifu early.
Heads off the danger.

>>41021516
seriously.
>There can only be one

>>41021529
Why are you name-fagging, anon?

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>>41021344
>>41021348
>>41021377
>>41021404
>>41021435

Page #137 stares at you for a long time before speaking. "...I swear to the Dark-Father if you mortals have found some way of lying in the Compact I will REND AND TEAR THE FLESH FROM YOUR BO- oh wow, you're serious."

He looks exactly like cat that won tickets to a handicapped mouse-marathon. "Ask your questions, dead man."
-----------------------------------------------------------
I honestly didn't expect you to coax another question out of him so I'll put the Other Merc Companies and The Necromancer down, after that you get a freebie of your own choice.

>FREE QUESTION (write-in)

>>41021586
what is your true name

>>41021586
What is your favorite color?

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>>41021627
"The Compact forbids me from telling you this. If you were to speak my true name, I would released. I would very much like that."

>Choose again

>>41021573
Namefag or no, doesn't bother me.

>>41021690
kek, okay.
Is there anyone i should take note of.

>>41021586
>>41021690
>Who bound you?

>>41021573
ahh no real reason.
>>41021690
What is the best way to increase my power?
either we get something good, or he doesn't care to know much about humans to ever bothered to learn such shit.
but meh

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>>41021586
>THE OTHER MERC COMPANIES

"There's only two here to speak of really. The Yellow Dogs, or 'The Pack' as they call themselves. They're even less picky than us; thieves, rapists and outlaws are the best you can hope for in their company. They number some 500, their training and equipment varying wildly. Not to say that we don't have our own undesirables, but they're undisciplined and disorganized enough to make the Black Company look exemplary by comparison. You've fought alongside them before as I recall."

"And against." You shrug, recalling that unpleasant incident in Albani.

"Then there is the Turncoat Prince, Sabin-Abn-Ibad, and his cohort. Most of them are his own loyal soldiers from distant Ajiyimad, but of late Neumunster deserters and even a few enterprising Skalds have joined his ranks. They don't seem to agree with the Necromancer's methods but rumour has it he and the Turncoat Prince have some sort of agreement. They number less than 200, but they are well-equipped and seasoned veterans all."

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>>41022039
Sabin-Abn-Ibad...another familiar name. One of the Caliph's many sons, his army and the Company fought on different fronts but you met him once. He was the catalyst behind your own accidental coronation as it were, but he probably doesn't even remember that unremarkable event.
----------------------------------------------------
>You didn't like him from the moment you saw him. Another stuck-up Ajiyimad noble trying to prove himself.
>He was alright, always came across as more of a soldier than a prince to you. And the whole coronation thing wasn't -really- his fault.
>Fekking hell, will Ajiyimad never cease to haunt you?

>>41022090
>Fekking hell, will Ajiyimad never cease to haunt you?

>>41022090
>>He was alright, always came across as more of a soldier than a prince to you. And the whole coronation thing wasn't -really- his fault.

>>41022090
He was alright.

>>41022090
>>He was alright, always came across as more of a soldier than a prince to you. And the whole coronation thing wasn't -really- his fault.

>>41022090
>Fekking hell, will Ajiyimad never cease to haunt you?

>>41022090
>Fekking hell, will Ajiyimad never cease to haunt you?

>>41022341
>>41022362
>>41022127
if your going to same fag don't make it so obvious.
please.

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>>41022127
>>41022148
>>41022215
>>41022266
>>41022341
>>41022362

You're not really disturbed by the knowledge the Sabin is here, better him than the rest of those useless Ajiyimad fops. You do wonder what drove him from his homelands though...

Still, you're getting sick of being constantly reminded of the Ajiyimad Campaign. You even carry one of their pistols, for Dark Father's sake.

>THE NECROMANCER

"Our esteemed employer? Not much is known about him to be honest, though we know of his insane Sister Syka and his Vampiric brother Vermillio, he himself is a mystery."

"An educated guess would assume he at least studied at the Isle of Mages for a time, where else would he happen upon such fell knowledge? He doesn't seem to care much for the idea of actually ruling over those he conquers. His sister is heading a cult dedicated to him and his brother is busy debasing himself with his Vampire hangers-on in all sorts of feasts and bloodbaths. Sounds like quite a bit of fun actually."

(Cont, having some connection issues)

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>>41022398
Sometimes, coincidences happen.

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>>41022475
"As for logistics, skeleton warriors make up the majority of the vast Undead Horde. Some half-rotted and some long, long dead, they're fairly weak but as you can see..." Page #137 gestures out across the vast, silent host "...they have the advantage in numbers."

"The skies are patrolled by swarms of bats and gargoyles, I haven't seen anything but a few claim to have witnessed a colossal beast at the heart of the swarm."

"His demented sister Syka and her cultists are the main logistics of the operation, skeletons can't do much about siegecraft without direct supervision. And the Necromancer can't be wasting his time raising -every- corpse that falls before his horde after all."

"The Vampires follow Vermillio's lead. Most of the older ones seem to have known him when he was still mortal, I'm assuming he slaughtered those he didn't like. The young spawn are stuck managing groups of skeletons when a bit more precision than 'March Forward' is required. The older lot, when not getting blood-drunk, form the Shock Infantry and Cavalry units."

"There is talk of the Necromancer employing my ilk as well, it's certainly within his power. And the idea of being let loose in the mortal realm is appealing to any daemon, even with a summoner yanking on the chain."

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>>41021810
>What is the best way to increase my power?

Choosing this because it seemed the most pertinent to you.

"Most your so-called Gods had their Ascension only partly because of their own actions. A major factor of their increased power was how they were viewed by those around them. The same should apply to you."

"Make hard choices, perform great feats and make sure your squad or others -see- you doing such things. As your reputation grows, and the blood on your hands flows more, you'll inevitably either get better at what you do, earn the attention of the Dark Father, or both."

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>>41022790
"That's all for today, #137." You say, standing up to leave.

"Fare you well, Corporal." You can feel the daemon's eyes on your back as you walk away. "I look forward to our next talk. Good luck with the Lord-Captain by the way."

You whip around to give the daemon-child a piece of your mind, but the creature has disappeared...

With that business done with, and you feeling more informed (if not a little tired of talk), you head to 7th Platoon's muster point. It's not much to speak of, just a clearing outside of the Lieutenant Aiden's tent. 7th Platoon is a Kriegstrom unit, hardened warriors in breastplate carrying the great Two-Handed swords abound.

2nd Squad, your squad, comes to attention as you approach. It's not the snappiest of form ups you've seen, there is no crisp salute of fists against chests like 1st Squad, but at least they're all sober and standing to some sort of attention unlike the gaggle of 3rd Squad. Still, you see Lancer 'Jack' Marcus twitch at the lax display. Doubtless the man must be used to a bit more professionalism from his time in the Neumunster army.
---------------------------------------------------------
>Hmm, sloppy. We'll have to whip them into shape when we get the time.
>Who cares? You're paid to kill, not parade about and look good.
-----------------------------------------------
Although you bonded a bit over ale at the Welcome Wagon, this is technically your first official address to your Squad.

>Say something (Write in)
>Just call the roll, you're not one for speeches

>>41022955
>Who cares? You're paid to kill, not parade about and look good.
>Just call the roll, you're not one for speeches

>>41022955
>Who cares? You're paid to kill, not parade about and look good.
>Say something (Write in)
>Soldiers, today's a... oh who gives a fuck. Let's kill some people and try not to die in the process, yeah?

>>41022955
>Hmm, sloppy. We'll have to whip them into shape when we get the time
can't let the first squad show us up. Marcus is probably thinking the same thing

"Alright lads we all met at the wagon but just in case you weren't sober enough to remember last night I'm your corporal and Marcus here is your lancer. Now the squad has just been formed so when I call out names on the roll be sure to remember who answers because these will be the people you're fighting beside"

>Call the roll

>>41022955
>Hmm, sloppy. We'll have to whip them into shape when we get the time.
>Just call the roll, you're not one for speeches

>>41022955
>>Hmm, sloppy. We'll have to whip them into shape when we get the time.
>Just call the roll, you're not one for speeches

>>41023163
I'll second this.

>>41022955
>Hmm, sloppy. We'll have to whip them into shape when we get the time.
>>Just call the roll, you're not one for speeches

Discipline is good, and so is the approval of our 2nd in command.
>Lord-Captain vote
You guys are fucking amazing, did you know that?

>>41022955
>Hmm, sloppy. We'll have to whip them into shape when we get the time.
And >>41023163
This.

>Hmm, sloppy. We'll have to whip them into shape when we get the time
>Soldiers, today's a... oh who gives a fuck. Let's kill some people and try not to die in the process, yeah?

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>>41023163
>>41023241
>>41023301

You make a mental note to spare some time for drill and proper forms of attention, can't have the 1st Squad one-upping you all the time after all.

"Alright lads we all met at the Wagon, but just in case you weren't sober enough to remember, I'm your Corporal and Marcus here is your Lancer. Now this squad has just been formed so when I call out names on the roll be sure to remember who answers because these will be the people you're fighting beside."

The Squad glances at each other, paying a bit more attention now. It's always wise to be familiar with the people that are going to be carrying sharp metal around you all the time.

You take out 2nd Squad's roster and read out the names "Excusing rank and all that, sound off. Marcus?"

"Present." The Neumunster veteran still looking critically at the rest of the squaddies.

"Next is... Verdun."

"At the ready, sirrah." The swordmaster Pietre Verdun responds, even standing still he looks like he's ready to bounce into a stance.

"Mask. ...Mask?" You look up, the Red Warrior standing not two feet away from you. "Oh right. Smiles-at-Dice."

"Here, Corporal." The grey-skinned Wildborn is vacantly looking past you into the distance pondering... something you suppose.

"Belhamun?"

"Yes, Sadiq-Corporal." The dark-skinned man visibly stops himself from waving at you.

"Just Corporal is fine, Trooper. Durvano?

"Arr, hale and hearty, matey." Vendis Durvano shoots you a golden toothy grin.

"You can call me matey when you've paid me back for those drinks." The Sabari (ex)Pirate's grin quickly dissappears. "Schuster?"

"All good, boss!" Carolines cheery grin makes the burn-scar on the left side of her face look all the more out of place.

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>>41023498
That's all of them present on the first afternoon roll-call, which is actually impressive given the Squads you've had before.

"Alright, now that's out of the way I will just make one thing clear. Lance-Corporal Marcus' rank is Lance-Corporal, and you will address him as such. That or Lancer. My rank is Corporal, and you will address me as Corporal until I decide I like you enough for you to call me by something else. In which case you can call me...

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

>"...Corporal." No fekking change there.
>"...Prince." Might as well own that Ajiyimad nightmare. It's -really- not worth the telling, but you roll with it.
>"Ace." You always came out on top in those card-games back in Sabari. And you only had a card up your sleeve -half- the time.
>"Lucky." You've been stuck with it ever since you had that rotten luck in Albani. Yellow Dogs, Kalgarri Riders and The Wild out for your blood at the same time? Yeah, 'Luck'.
>Other (write in)

>NOTE: Being the uncreative fresh-faced trooper you once were, you signed up with the fake name of Trooper Adam Eve. Real original I know, but that's not your real name nor is it what everyone around the Company calls you.

>"...Prince." Might as well own that Ajiyimad nightmare. It's -really- not worth the telling, but you roll with it.

>>41023498
>At the ready, sirrah.
Is he insulting us on purpose?

>>41023585
>"...Prince." Might as well own that Ajiyimad nightmare. It's -really- not worth the telling, but you roll with it.

>>41023585
>Lucky
>Just because tsundere Kiranova

>>41023585
>Lucky

>>41018471
I follow this quest religiously ,but it's fourth of July so I'm at a party I am sorry that I cannot participate.

>>41023632
Probably not, if it makes you feel any better if he thought you were worth insulting he'd probably also think you were worth killing.

>>41023665
Oh yeah, I forgot that was a thing. Have a good one my American friend.

>>41023607
>>41023637
2 for 'Prince'.

>>41023640
>>41023655
2 for Lucky.

Need a tie-breaker here.

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>>41023762
PRINCE

>>41023762
Let's go with Lucky

>>41023762
I'll back prince because we'll never fucking live that down.

>>41023762
Lucky. Prince is dumb.

>>41023762
Lucky, for fuck's sake.

>>41023778
>>41023791
>>41023807
>>41023850

Fek me, another tie. Roll for it 1d20.

Odds = Lucky (and is our lucky number)
Evens = Prince (and was how many days we wore the crown)

>>41023762
Prince, it already haunts us anyways.

Rolled 4 (1d20)

>>41023917
rollin

Rolled 19 (1d20)

>>41023917
Rollan

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>>41023926
Corporal 'Prince' it is!

You were a newly made Corporal at the time, the Black Company was putting down some dissidents or other for the Caliph. Bloody work with no glory, given you were mostly shaking down peasants and executing any slaves or commonfolk that looked a bit uppity.

As the tale goes, the Prince Sabin-Abn-Ibad suspected a plot to assassinate his younger brother during his coronation. Everyone was suspect, even the palace guards.

So you, as the closest bystander who couldn't possibly have been caught up in local intrigue, was 'volunteered' as his double during the coronation. You even looked a bit like him, though obviously paler. They Imam wasn't actually supposed to Crown you if the assassins didn't attack, but he didn't know that. There was no attempt on your life that day, and you got to spend 4 days in the Palace Quarters living easy as a Prince and sort-of enjoying the company of the then-Lieutenant Kiranova. As well as the maids and belly dancers of course, you both enjoyed an 'open' relationship at the time.

It was all ruined when the White Hand Assassins actually did try to kill you though, and you were unceremoniously de-crowned once the threat had passed.

Fun while it lasted though.

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>>41024036
With all the roll-calls and menial stuff out of the way, Sergeant Frowns-at-Children sends you off to the Pits. Apparently Vermillio is having another one of his 'Displays', attendance is mandatory of course. He and the Lieutenant wouldn't be joining you, still busy with the squad paperwork apparently.
It's not a long walk to the Pits, but it looks like it's just 7th and 8th Platoon attending today, can't have all your sellswords in one spot after all. You notice a few Yellow Dogs and some of the Turncoat Prince's band as well, the displays at the Pits basically amount to 'Watch us torture these traitors so you won't be so stupid.'

"So, uh, Corporal." Trooper Caroline Schuster moves up beside you "How long have you been with the Black Company?"

--------------------------------------------
> "5 years. Albani, Ajiyimad and Sabari were the most notable campaigns. I joined just after Far Sut Rus."
> "10 years. Albani, Ajiyimad and Sabari. Far Sut Rus was a long one. Then the Northern Coast campaign..."
> "15 years. Albani, Ajyimad, Sabari, Far Sut Rus, the Northern Coast... Albani -again-, the Helenwood stint, Albani -again-..."
> "All my fekking life. The Black Company raised me. You name a place and I bet you 10 Silver I've fought there."

>>41024153
> "10 years. Albani, Ajiyimad and Sabari. Far Sut Rus was a long one. Then the Northern Coast campaign..."
Fits with the timeframe of 5yrs being Lord-Captain's lancer while another 5yrs of being a grunt I guess.

>>41024153
>"10 years. Albani, Ajiyimad and Sabari. Far Sut Rus was a long one. Then the Northern Coast campaign..."

>>41024153
10 years sound like a reasonable amount of time for us to reach corporal. any longer and we'd just seem unambitious

> "15 years. Albani, Ajyimad, Sabari, Far Sut Rus, the Northern Coast... Albani -again-, the Helenwood stint, Albani -again-..."

Old timer is best timer.

>>41024153
>"10 years. Albani, Ajiyimad and Sabari. Far Sut Rus was a long one. Then the Northern Coast campaign..."

>>41024153
Your life before Black Company seems like it belongs to someone else, but you still remember it clearly. Some sweet, others... well you joined Black Company for a reason.

"10 years. Albani, Ajiyimad and Sabari. Far Sut Rus was a long one. Then the Northern Coast campaign..."

Caroline's eyes widen at that last one "The Northern Coast campaign? Between Neumunster and the Skalds? I'm was born there! You fought against the Skalds? How many did you kill?'

--------------------------------------
>"Ahem...we were with the Skalds actually. They paid better."
>"I'll say this for Neumunster, they always paid on time. And it was 7 or 8 dead Skalds, I'm not sure. Things get confusing when fighting on a ship's deck."
>Other (write in)

>>41024308
>>"I'll say this for Neumunster, they always paid on time. And it was 7 or 8 dead Skalds, I'm not sure. Things get confusing when fighting on a ship's deck."

Even if it's a lie best not get on her bad side

>"Ahem...we were with the Skalds actually. They paid better."

>>41024308
>>"I'll say this for Neumunster, they always paid on time. And it was 7 or 8 dead Skalds, I'm not sure. Things get confusing when fighting on a ship's deck."
>>41024308
>>41024308

>>41024308
>"I'll say this for Neumunster, they always paid on time. And it was 7 or 8 dead Skalds, I'm not sure. Things get confusing when fighting on a ship's deck."

Wow, Black Company thread? One of my favorite fantasy series. I assume we dont get a chance to play as wizard?

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>>41024408
>>41024422
>>41024379
You decide not to mention that the Black Company may or may not have actually fought on both sides at one point or the other during the Campaign. That's what happens when you don't get paid.

"I'll say this for Neumunster, they always paid on time. And it was 7 or 8 dead Skalds, I'm not sure. Things get confusing when fighting on a ship's deck."

"8? Fek yeah, Corporal!" Trooper Schuster positively beams at this, pleased to here her leader has been racking up his dead-Skald tally. "Fek those Skalds, Corporal, you won't belei-"

Her voice trails off as the screams from the Pit become audible.

Looks like it's Vinehounds today. And Vermillio isn't here, that's a plus. The Pits are makeshift burrow where a small pallisade is erected and dangerous beasts are let loose. Aparently it's really easy to corral feral creatures with the undead all around, they're terrified of them and easy work for the cultists to nab when the horde moves on. Minus a casualty or two of course, but the cultists don't seem to care about that. This gig is the closest they've got to entertainment around her.

It's quite simple really, you take a victim, throw them in, and what the beastly carnage ensue. Most of the time these victims are traitors, prisoners, people who have displeased Vermillio, or (if they're really scraping the barrel) unlucky bystanders. From the way this robed cultist is ranting on and on about loyalty and the foolishness of refusing 'Our Dark Lord' it's either traitors or prisoners. Traitor prisoners, maybe? They're busy dragging up the next victim now.


>>41024434
Sorry to say it's merely inspired by the series. Not the same characters or setting at all.

>>41024434
Also, wizards are ridiculously OP in the Black Company series. Fuck those guys.

>>41024512
You do tend to get that when some dude can twist reality around his pinky fingers.

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>>41024501
It's an old man, two robed cultists half-dragging, half-carrying him up to the scaffold. Definitely a prisoner, you think, spotting the ragged remains of the Neumunster uniform. Not a noble, though ransoms mean nothing to the Necromancer, perhaps a Sergeant? ...Too old to be a Corporal like you.

The cultists throw him down on his knees at the scaffolds edge as their leader continues to spout his rhetoric. You're not really listening, you're paying attention to the man about to die in front of you.

He doesn't seem scared, just sad. A hint of defiance maybe. As the demagogue wraps up his little speech, one of the cultists unceremoniously kicks him into the Pit.

---------------------------------------------------------
>Watch.
>Don't Watch.


>Say something to the Squad (write in)
>Say nothing.

>>41024618
>Watch.
>Say nothing.

>>41024641
seconded

>>41024618
Watch and say nothing. Stoically.

>>41024641
>>41024652
>>41024705

It's not quick, and it's definitely not pretty, but you watch every second of it. The Vinehounds don't even wait for him to hit the dirt before they're all over him, his screams going to new levels when the Alpha Vinehound burrows it's snout into his guts.

The Yellow Dogs are cheering and hollering, it is supposed to be entertainment after all. They Turncoat Prince's men though... they're dead silent.

Out of the corner of your eye you can see the your Squad. It's a mixed reaction, some like Nissar and 'Jack' Marcus are visibly horrified. Durvano is laughing heartily while he and Schuster bet how long it will last. The rest just look... bored. This probably doesn't even rank in the top 10 of their 'Bad Ways to Go' list.

The screams are cut off when one of the Vinehounds finally claws the old man's throat out. You hear Durvano curse aloud, looks like Schuster won the bet.

You and several others turn to leave when the Cultist Leader shouts out. "Not yet! There's one more for the Pits today!"

Oh for Feks sake get on with it, you think to yourself. It isn't until you see what's up on the scaffold that you notice your squad's uncomfortable looks.

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>>41024803
"Oh no, by the fekking Saints no!" Lancer 'Jack' Marcus curses. "Not the drummer boy too."

"Sadiq! Please, Fahemnihras-beck, no this!" Trooper Belhamun's common is poor but the meaning is clear enough in his eyes.

Trooper Durvano looks at the them as if they're crazy. "Have ye gone stark ravin' mad? You want the Corporal to be going and sticking his neck out for a boy?! There's at least a dozen of the blighters around here, nevermind the -thousands- out there if this goes sour. And for what? If ye like em young, go to the fekkin Harpy's Nest and they'll suit you up just fine."

"It is a gamble." Smiles-at-Dice nods.

Trooper Schuster just shrugs. Pietre Verdun is busy inspecting his fingernails and Mask is still staring at the corpse of the old man. Trooper Schuster just shrugs. "Whatever you say, boss."

They Squad has all got different feelings on the matter, but none are stepping up by themselves. They're all looking at you...

-------------------------------------------------
>"Whoa, wait why are you looking at me to do something about it? Get someone with fekking rank to do it."
>"Alright, alright. Fek. Suggestions?"
>"Fek no, are we paid to save war-orphans and kiss puppies? No. So shut up, you knew what you were signing up for."
>Other (write in)

>>41024947
We promised to side with Jack, I say we discuss a way to fix it, whether or not we actually believe we can.

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I do offer my apologies for the sporadic spelling mistakes.

>>41024969
That was a promise to back up his tactical decisions, not a moral choice. You won't jeopardise his Companion Quest by refusing to endanger the squad here.

>>41024996
>>41024947

So what's the issue? They don't want the person to die because he's young?

Clearly the insane cultists believe he did something wrong, so unless we can prove he didn't, that's going to be a fight we may not win here.

Can probably say that, too.

>>41024996
Oh, in that case, the drumer dies. Life's shit and he chose the wrong side, don't wanna get on the wrong side of these cultists. But I stick by discussing it, the most we can do is calm down out troops and make ourselves out to be sympathetic, whether or not we care about him.

>>41022475
>>41022672
>Sister Syka
I see that you did there, OP.

>>41025067
I like the Black Company style of "you've been hired by villains, enjoy". Couldn't really handle "The Dominator" from the books though.

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>>41025030
You'd guess his age to be about 11 Summers at the most.

Nissar objection is probably because he's a kind-hearted man who doesn't quite comprehend what's going on most of the time, while Marcus may be hung up on the Rules of War. Or maybe the fact that these prisoners are from his old unit.

>>41025032
Is that a vote for:
>"Alright, alright. Fek. Suggestions?"

It sounds like you're just humouring them, not actually planning on racing in there.

>>41025067
>pic sort of not related

>>41024947
How old is this drummer boy anyway. pic makes me think he's in his teens.

>>41025101
>Is that a vote for

I'd say we should explain that his youth will probably not save him from whatever the cultists believe he's guilty of. Note that it is tactically a losing battle to intervene.

>>41024947
Fek it. I didn't enjoy watching an old man get torn to shreds. Standing aside while some terrified kid gets ripped apart would doubtless haunt our dreams for a while.

suggestions marcus?

>>41024947
>"Fek no, are we paid to save war-orphans and kiss puppies? No. So shut up, you knew what you were signing up for."
>Other (write in)
Explain the cruel reality of the situation and that we are basically helping cut his suffering short.
I wish i had that vinland saga page that perfectly explained this.

>>41025192
>vinland saga

Heh, my fucking nigga. Don't know which page you're talking about though, I may not be up there yet.

>>41025206
It might have been beserk as well, but if it wasn't beserk than it should be during the ealry chapters of when they had him as a kid.

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>>41025206
It is all clear, we must simply carry the boat to the drummer boy!

>>41025149
One vote motivated by guilty conscience.

>>41025259
One vote for... I don't know.

>>41025192
>>41025137
>>41025032
>>41025030

I think that's a general agreement to explain to the squad that

1) Life's harsh.
2) Nothing we do will save the boy.
3) It would just get us killed as well.

Have I got that right?

>>41025289
Yeah that sounds about right, maybe additionally something along the lines of telling the men it's okay for them to turn away, and that no one will think any less of them for it.

>>41025289
don't forget to mention that the boy would be forced to be a killer and would eventually get killed either because of a fight or in the camps.
Also mention a battle field is no place for a child in the first place and he knew what he signed up for.

>>41025289
kill the kid ourselves quickly with as little pain as possible

>>41025395
"What are we, the pink company? Kid's drummed his last tune. Walked into the tarpit. Let him die with honor, ineffectually kicking at a ravenous dogbeast."

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You try to explain the reality of the situation to your squaddies, don't want anyone doing anything stupid.

"You think life is fair? You think anything we do today is going to see that boy still breathing? Will it be any better getting yourself killed trying to stop it? He's dead meat either way."

Trooper Schuster raises her hand sheepishly. "Um, boss. I think he might be a she. They've got like, a ponytail and everything."

"Right. He OR She is dead meat either way. Look, the battlefield is no place for a child. The kid knew what he (or she) was signing up for-"

"Actually, military service in non-combat roles is mandatory for Neumunster state orphans." Lancer 'Jack' butts in.

"...thank you, Lancer." Fek, this is getting painful. "My POINT is that we're going to acheive absolutely nothing other than getting ourselves killed. We're the Black Company damnit, it's in the fekking name."

(Cont)

Looks like we have failed to save White Rose.

>>41025101
if there is a doable suggestions i say lets go for that, if not, then that's is just life.
Also as a moral for the group, if you do good, do it when you have time to actually do it without compromising the company or the squad

>>41025727
Do you want to be the Black Company, or the White Company?!

Working for cliche villains lucrative; and when they inevitably get defeated by some shitty prophecy, there's loot to be had.

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>>41025583
A few of the other nearby mercenaries seem to be listening to your 'talk' with the Squad. The Yellow Dogs are mostly still cheering and placing bets on how long the boy will last, whether the boy is actually a boy, and what his crime was.

"For the Transgression of standing against our Master," spouts the cultist leader, the scared kid being prodded up the stairs "For the crime of providing rhythmic motivation to the foes of Our Lord..." That's a new one, some of the Yellow Dogs groan as they lose their bets. "...and for the crime of damaging His Most Terrible Grace's property..."

"It's okay to look away, lads." You murmur to your squad. It's not like you're affected by this. No, you've seen too much of the same before. What's one more young life in the scheme of things?

Lancer 'Jack' stubbornly shakes his head and watches on. "We could bluff it, Corporal. I mean, just look at the Turncoat's men. There's twelve cultists here, and technically you outrank them..."

Nissar doesn't seem be listening, just saying something over and over again in his language.

The kid is crying as they are thrown at the demagogue's feet.

"For such a slight, for such a BLASPHEMY, there can be no mercy. As the great Superior Syka said-" Fek, he can really drone on. Just get it over with.

You can see the kid shaking with each sob, probably hyperventilating as his mind starts to catch on to the reality of the situation. The men belonging to the Turncoat Prince are visibly sickened, a quick glance tells you that a lot of them are gripping their sword hilts awfully tight. Still, no one steps forward.

(Cont)

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>>41025850

"I won't blame you if you look away. No one will judge." You're only half-talking to the squad now.

No, you're not affected by this at all. Why you, after all? If no one else is going to draw the line at the murder of children, why should you?

"And it is for THIS reason, that we sentence this enemy of our Beloved Leader..."

No. These sorts of things don't haunt your dreams. You're going to sleep like a baby tonight...

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

>Do Nothing (+1 Blackguard Skill)
>Intervene (+1 Corporal Skill)

>>41025878
>>Intervene (+1 Corporal Skill)

Fuckit, time for stupid ideas.

>>41025878
>Do Nothing (+1 Blackguard Skill)

>>41025878
>Intervene (+1 Corporal Skill)
Not because I want to save kid but because it is sounds more fun.

>>41025878
>Intervene
Hardly her fault she got conscripted. Besides I want that bloody cultist to shut up.

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>>41025906
>>41025969
>>41025983

Ah, /tg/ you noble bastards.

> Corporal Skill Gained
>STAND FIRM
Your men steel themselves against the enemy onslaught.
>Your squad forgoes all base bonuses to Squad Combat Rolls, the threshold for friendly casualties is raised from 5 to 10.
------------------------------------------

Fek it, no. You're not sticking your neck out for some kid. Not the Company's problem, not your squad's problem and -definitely- not your problem.

So why are you stepping out from the main press of bodies and stomping towards the scaffold? Dark Father help you, here goes nothing.

----------------------------------------------------
There are about 5 cultists gathered around the scaffold, another 6 in the general area.

The area is swarming with Black Company Kriegstrom, Yellow Dogs and Turncoat men. You don't know if they'll stay neutral if violence breaks out.

>Fire your pistol into the air. That will get their attention.
>Fire your pistol into the cultist demagogue. THAT will get their attention.
>Raise your voice, say something (write in)
>Say nothing until someone stops you
>Other (write in)

>>41026246
>Fire your pistol into the air. That will get their attention.

Stare the lead cultist in the eye as you reload then aim it at him and say. "As the ranking officer here I order you to release the prisoner.Or should I shoot you for insubordination and toss you in with the hounds?"

>>41026246
We technically outrank these guys?
Dispute their charges.
>providing rhythmic motivation to the foes of Our Lord? Never heard of that one before, name precedent for it or I'm having the charges dropped.

>>41026246
>Ah, /tg/ you noble bastards.
One day, I may run a game where /tg/ is forced to play a properly villainous cliche-villain.

ALL of the options will be the most over-the-top bullshit there is, and every good deed will be punished.

>>41026364
>and every good deed will be punished.

Well...

>>41026246
"Yo, we got a use for a drummer girl, better than dead flesh. Give her here."

>>41026246
>"Yo, we got a use for a drummer girl, better than dead flesh. Give her here."

I can get behind this vote, seems pragmatic enough to work for consciences.

>>41026416
Yeah, we basically just commandeer her. No need for violence. They should want to do everything to help their dark masters anyway, and this girl will help us. (Or so we tell them.)

>>41026375
I expected no less when voted to save kid actually.
I wonder if Syka sub or dom, prob a sub since her name.

>>41026517
In before the main necromancer is actually a tiny ultracute massive dominatrix.

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>>41026381
>>41026416
You're a cold-hearted bastard, sure. But even Evil should have standards.

"Yo! You, yes you!" Not the most authoritative way to address the Cultist Leader but he does stop shouting his spiel at least

"We got a use for a drummer girl, better than dead flesh. Give her here."

You're at the bottom of the steps to the scaffold, two Cultists bar your way but they're looking up at their leader for his response.

Lancer 'Jack' is right behind you, hand on hilt. Nissar is on your other side, still murmuring those same foreign words... are his hands glowing? Shit.

Behind them stand the rest of your squad, close enough to be considered 'with you' but far enough away that they can claim innocence if this goes wrong. You're not sure which.

The Yellow Dogs are booing, impatient for the show to go on. The Turncoats however are looking very interested.

"What?!" The Cultist Demagogue splutters "You can just steal condemned prisoners! Examples have to be made!"

-----------------------------------------
>BLUFF: "Oh yeah, what's your rank? Don't have one? Then take it up with my superior. The drummer comes with us." [HARD]
>THREATEN: "Are you disobeying a direct order? I am giving you to the count of three." [MEDIUM] (may have complications)
>FEK IT ALL: Cut down the two cultists, talking was never going to work. [EASY]
>Other

>>41026543
We are doing it Croaker way arent we?

>>41026543
Don't you be giving me ideas.

>>41026576
"You are making an example. Of your support for our troops who fight and die for you. The master takes care of his own."

>>41026576
>THREATEN: "Are you disobeying a direct order? I am giving you to the count of three." [MEDIUM] (may have complications)

>>41026607
And look around to show that we support the provisioning of troops with sweet drummer girls.

Then glare back at him with a THREATEN if he doesn't go along with it.

>>41026576
>THREATEN
"As the ranking officer here I order you to release the prisoner.Or should I shoot you for insubordination and toss you in with the hounds?"

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>>41026661
>the provisioning of troops with sweet drummer girls.

Well, fuck. And here I was thinking you were doing it for altruistic reasons.

>>41026576
>Other
"Who are you to question me? Do you wish to meet my friend Page #137? I am sure he will enjoy your flesh and soul."

>THREATEN: "Are you disobeying a direct order? I am giving you to the count of three." [MEDIUM] (may have complications)

>>41026693
We are. There's no reason both she and the troops can't be pleased.

>>41026611
>>41026661
>>41026663
>>41026704
Alright, roll for it. 1d100, best two of three. Lower the better.

>DC 50

Rolled 80 (1d100)

>>41026730
The Emperor.

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Rolled 24 (1d100)

>>41026730

Rolled 51 (1d100)

>>41026730

Rolled 63 (1d100)

>>41026730

Rolled 83 (1d100)

>>41026730
roland

>>41026753
Well it looks like we got it. Barely.

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>>41026750
>>41026753
>>41026753
>80, 24, 51
>24+51
>Avg = 37.5

>PASS

"Are you disobeying a direct order? You know know that's call insubordination, yes? That's punishable by death. I am giving you to the count of three."

The Cultist Leader "But-"

"One."

Lancer 'Jack' half draws his sword. You think you hear the rasp of a few other blades as well. Your Squad? The Turncoats... some Yellow Dogs even? You don't turn around to check, you just stare down the Demagogue as you count. The cultists in front of you are looking worried, that's a lot of steel being drawn all of the sudden.

The Demagogue doesn't quite get it. "You can't just-"

"TWO."

Trooper Belhamun's hands are definitely glowing blue now. Your pistol makes an audible click as you prime it for firing.

"THR-"

"ALRIGHT! Alright, just...fine. Take the prisoner. But Superior Syka will hear of this!" The Cultist Leader glares at you while his attendants hurriedly grab the drummer and pass him off to your squad.

----------------------------
>"Thank you for your co-operation, sir."
>"Blast, I was just warming up to the idea of you being difficult. Later, scum."
>Other (write in)

>>41026898
>"Blast, I was just warming up to the idea of you being difficult. Later, scum."

>>41026898
"Thank you for your willing contribution to the armed forces."

>>41026935
this

>>41026898
Very well, tell her (insert name of person we don't like here) sends his regards.

>>41026935
Upvoted for classiness.

>>41026898
"Thank you for your willing contribution to the armed forces."

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>>41026935
>>41026990
>>41027105
>>41027004
>>41027090

>NEW ALIGNMENT STATUS: Not A Total Bastard
You've done some dark deeds in the past, no question. And you'd do them again. But your fellow Black Company members figure that deep, down... -real- deep down, you might actually not be -all- bad.
----------------------------------
You offer a few parting words as the mercenaries split up, the fuss all over and done with apparently.

"Thank you for your willing contribution to the armed forces. By the way, tell her Corporal Aeron sends his regards."

Phew. That could've gone bad. Real bad. You notice Trooper Belhamun's hands are still glowing.

"Put the magic away, Trooper. Dark Father, preserve me." He obliges sheepishly. You notice that Trooper Durvano is wearing his gold-toothed grin as Trooper Schuster flicks him a silver piece.

"Durvano... did you just bet whether or not we'd get into a fight?" The man's penchant for gambling is indeed impressive.

"Fight? Gods no, Corporal. Schuster bet we wouldn't live through the next 5 minutes, and I figured I wouldn't have to pay up if I was dead now, ya see?"

Can't argue with that, you suppose.

Lancer 'Jack' gestures to the shivering bundle at his feet. "I respect your stones, Corporal. But what do we do with him now?"

"I'm telling you, boss, it's a girl." Trooper Schuster pipes up.

"Wanna place some coin on that, Schuster?" Durvano's grin positively gleaming in the afternoon light. "Anyway, not our problem. You've risked enough for this pup as is."

-------------------------------
The Drummer
>Boy
>Girl
>Is too traumatized to answer, their gender will remain a mystery for now.

>>41027217
>>41027217

Also, what to do with them?

-----------------------
>I guess I'll cover them out of my own pocket. 5 silver a week is enough for a kid regarding food, right? They're like smaller people, they don't need to eat much.
>He's one of us now, I'll petition the Sergeant to have a Drummer officially added to our roster.
>No, we've done enough. He can come with us, but he's fending for himself.
>Other

>>41027217
>Is too traumatized to answer, their gender will remain a mystery for now.

>>41027217
Clearly a girl. Named Ciri, of course, apparently like seven prophecies about her too.

And now we get to enjoy her... wonderful drumming music!

Really, this was all for the sweet marching trots.

>>41027229
>He's one of us now, I'll petition the Sergeant to have a Drummer officially added to our roster.
gonna have to train him/her

>>41027229
>Is too traumatized to answer, their gender will remain a mystery for now.
>No, we've done enough. He can come with us, but he's fending for himself.

>>41027250
In before turns out to be a spy and the worst mistake of Black Company's entire career.

We can cover the girl for now, maybe add her to the roster if she's not completely insane.

Betting on girl. And on not paying for her survival. Lancer Goody Two-Shoes can pay if he's so desperate to play the white knight.

>>41027217
>>41027229
>He's one of us now, I'll petition the Sergeant to have a Drummer officially added to our roster.

also 5 silver says it's a girl

>>41027229
>>41027217
>Is too traumatized to answer, their gender will remain a mystery for now.
>He's one of us now, I'll petition the Sergeant to have a Drummer officially added to our roster.

>>41027217
>>Is too traumatized to answer, their gender will remain a mystery for now.
>>He's one of us now, I'll petition the Sergeant to have a Drummer officially added to our roster.

>>41027270
>>41027279
We have a girl-to-girl sensor in our squad. She's definitely a girl.

Named Casca. Yes. Casca.

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>>41027232
>>41027250
>>41027279
>>41027326

"Boy or girl, fekked if I know. Maybe when they get over the whole near-eaten-alive shock they'll tell us."

Happened to you once, on your third day on the job as a fresh-faced Trooper. That Northern Coast Campaign was a hell of a way to learn soldiering. You didn't talk to anyone for a week after that Wingshark near took your head off. Gods, those things were awful.

"Either way, they're one of us now. I'll petition the Sergeant to have a Drummer added to our roster. Maybe the kid can play other instruments as well."

"Can we start a band? I'm good with a lute!" Trooper Schuster lights up.

"I'm quite talented with the flute..." Pietre Verdun mentions absently.


---------------------------------------
>"Sure, we'll call it the Wrong-Fekking-Career-Choice-Schuster."
>"Of course! And Mask can be our lead singer."
>"No. Just... no."
>"Actually..." You are pretty good with (name an instrument)

>>41027279
You can't bet on something you're voting for! That's cheating.

It's just meta enough to work. I love it.

>>41027480
We are pretty good with an instrument.

The fucking erhu.

Adding wuxia element to this: Now.

>>41027480
>"Actually..." You are pretty good with... Actually, you don't have much in the way of musical talent, but there's no harm in letting them have a little musical get together now and then, it'll help keep spirits up.

>>41027480
>"No. Just... no."
We tried it once when we were a prince. The assassin got so fed up with our performance that he lunged at us with a knife to make it stop.

>>41027533

We can have musical talent, and a Black Company band is great.
>>41027513 Erhu is... well it could be hilarious... so unless there's something else?

>>41027480
>>41027535
>Bagpipes - it's an acquired taste

>>41027480
"I bet mask can play the xylophone"
>"Actually..." You are pretty good with revelly horn

>>41027513
>>41027563
>>41027569

Either one. It's got to be something really out of place. Something everyone will notice, and appreciate.

And that our enemies will come to loathe the curious tune of.

A tiny harp is also hilarious.

>>41027480
>"Of course! And Mask can be our lead singer."
>"No. Just... no."

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>All this serious talk over consideration

Well, I think it really says something about the Corporal that just as much thought is going into what obscure instrument he plays as there was on whether to let the cultists execute the Drummer boy/girl.

Never change, guys.

>>41027480
In before Syka walks in on our band practice:

"You took the prisoner for this?"
"Yep. Feel the sweet rolls of the calfskin drum that this supple girl's fingers play."

Syka then joins us. Companion +1

>>41027627
>serious consideration over musical instruments

Fek, I'm losing it.

>>41027627
The erhu is not a troll instrument. Such an insulting file name!

This is now set in North Henan province! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7fdFGEg-9R8

Let it be done!

>>41027582
highly relevant
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h03QBNVwX8Q&t=3m46s

There's only one true instrument; the accordion.

>>41027718
The mighty leaf is a much better instrument than an accordion. It comes from nature itself!

>>41027730
What if he plays massive wooden log drums wrapped in softening leaves?

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>>41027653
>>41027563
>>41027513

Fek it, the fekking erhu it is. You're already wuxia enough with your daily morning meditation as it is.
----------------------------------------------

You're about to say something sarcastic and witty to shut your mouthy Trooper up when you stop and realise...

"Actually... I was really good with the erhu. Haven't played it in a while." You remark wistfully. Suddenly the idea of a band doesn't sound so bad, it's not like you're doing much else in your time off now is it?

"...what the hell is an erhu?" Trooper Schuster scrunches her face up.

"I believe that is a name for a female troll." Trooper Smiles-at-Dice deadpans.

"You got in good with a female troll, Corporal? HAH HAR!"

"Shut UP, Durvano. The erhu is a refined instrument. Philistine." You smolder, maybe the band name can be The Dickass Troopers.

All done with your brief consideration of radically changing careers, you decide to get back to work. There's enough light left for a final task before lights-out. Unless you want the Squad up all night doing practice and drill of course.

------------------------
>The Welcome Wagon. After a day like today, you need alcohol.
>The Harpy's Nest. After a day like today, you need a woman.
>The Post. After a day like today, you need to kill something. And get paid for it.
>The Drill Square. After a day like today, you need to shout at someone, like your squad.
>Sergeant Frowns-at-Children. Paperwork, ugh. That and ass-covering if you get the chance.
> ...band practice? (Away ye treacherous thoughts)
>Other (write in)

--------------------------------
Funnily enough, Mask perked up at your mention of the erhu. He seemed less enthused when someone mentioned... >>41027654

COMPANION QUEST UNLOCKED
>'The Song of My People'
For: Knight-of-the-Line 'Mask'
Alone and undisturbed, play the erhu for Mask.

>>41027809
>The Post. After a day like today, you need to kill something. And get paid for it.

>>41027809
>The Drill Square. After a day like today, you need to shout at someone, like your squad.

Never know when we're the fighting's gonna start, so should see what our squad can do.

>>41027809
Playing a female troll is actually a good instrument too. Might have to dabble.

Well, we might want to do some ass covering, and seeing if our new drummer doesn't die.

>>41027809
>> ...band practice? (Away ye treacherous thoughts)

>>41027809
>Sergeant Frowns-at-Children. Paperwork, ugh. That and ass-covering if you get the chance.
Send Marcus at the post

>>41027809
>>The Post. After a day like today, you need to kill something. And get paid for it.

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>>41027809
>The Post. After a day like today, you need to kill something. And get paid for it.
>The Harpy's Nest. After a day like today, you need a woman.
We have the drummer boy/girl for this.

>>41027902
How dare you! We got her for MUSICAL drumming ONLY!

WITH A DRUM.

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>>41027902
>ALIGNMENT CHANGE: Holy Fek, that is Sick.

>>41027809
>Sergeant Frowns-at-Children. Paperwork, ugh. That and ass-covering if you get the chance.

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>>41027963

>>41027994
>>41027902
>>41027885
>>41027872
>>41027838

Looks like it's a toss-up between the Post and the Sergeant. Which one?

>>41028012
The Post.

>>41028012
Paperwork.

Rolled 1 (1d2)

>>41028012
1.Sergeant.
2.Post.

>>41028012
Paperwork.

>>41028040
The dice agree.

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>>41028040
Sergeant it is you decide, seeing off your squad and dragging the still-sniffling Drummer Kid behind you. Much paperwork and ass-covering awaits ye.

You're still pondering band names as you walk...

-----------------------------------------
>The Kriegstrom Rockefellas
>The Black Metal Company
> Prince and the Super Troopers
> Blame the Drummer
> The Dead Don't Lie (But I Do)
>Other (write-in)

===========================

I'll have to end it here, it's been a good run. I've learnt to never try to anticipate what /tg/ will choose because they'll just throw an Erhu in there and turn a would-be domineering officer character into a tsundere ex-lover if given half a chance.

I'll also point out that I really had no idea which way you guys were going with that Execution vote.

That was a blast, I hope you're enjoying the Quest as much as I am so far. Hopefully see you this time next week or a few days after that.

>>41028124
> The Dead Don't Lie (But I Do)

>>41028124
> The Dead Don't Lie (But I Do)

>>41028124
See you next time. Maybe. If I catch the timing.

>>41028124
Thanks for running Mr QM

> Prince and the Super Troopers

>>41028124
>Krieg und Strom

File: That was unexpected.png (1.27 MB, 1920x1080)

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I'm still hanging around for a bit if anyone has any questions regarding the setting, rules (I make half of them up on the fly) or just in general.

I'd also appreciate any feedback, I aim to improve where I can. I know there were a few spelling mistakes.

Taking a good idea and expanding on it is pretty much how all settings are initially made, but you'll probably have to get less spontaneous regarding the rules- there's a decent chance none of this... creative shit you implemented will work the way you wanted.

Still, not many people quest for the crunch, so fuck it. Go simple.

>>41028299
Do we have to reogarnise our tents so taht our squad is sleeping in the same general area or does no one care?

Cause that would seem important to me.
Maybe we already are near each other?
Do Corporals and other officers and a seperate area of the camp to ordinary soldiers?
Will we have to explain to Karanova why we saved a drummer person from the evil cultists?
If we steal a skeleton can we use it as a xylophone in our band?

>>41028299
Only thing I'd recommend would be trying for more rapid updates when the votes are in and/or leaving a "continuing..." on each unfinished segment.

>>41028472
>Tents
Squads sleep together, so the Troopers will all be sleeping in the same tent, along with Lancer' Jack'. Knights-of-the-Line often pitch up separately in the Platoon, as do the Corporals.

Depending on how much you spend per week (decided next thread) will dictate whether you crash with the other 2 Corporals of 7th Platoon or if you have your own spot.

Officers have a separate area entirely.

>Explain to Kiranova
Probably, if the fuss reaches that high. It would have to go through the Sergeant and your Lieutenant Aiden first, and you -did- give a fake name. But if Superior Syka does get involved...

>Skeleton Xylophone
A regular skeleton rather than an animated one might be a better choice.

>>41028521
Noted, I'll try to be more speedy.

>>41028425
Combat is pretty much assured next session, so that'll be a good testing ground.

>>41029007
>But if Superior Syka does get involved...
It's no problem. We've got an erhu now.

All in all, this is going fairly well. Quite an entertaining quest!

>>41029067
Cheers, mate!

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