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File: Totemist Quest.jpg (222 KB, 619x950)
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You squeeze, and as you do the ground beneath the splits opens wide. A yawning chasm of fiery red and gold sends cracks spiderwebbing through the ruined streets. You hold him a moment longer, then release him. Your free arm comes up in a vicious uppercut, and as you make contact a plume of molten rock erupts from the depths of the earth, a wave of molten magma that washes over your foe as he curves through the air away from you.

The blasts retreats into the earth as quickly as it came, and the crack before you seals with only a splatter of black to mark its passage. For a moment you can see the shadows and magics stripped away. A very human skeleton fails in the air, one bony hand still outstretched.

The Magus hits the ground in front of you as a solid black skeleton. The impact with the ruined street shatters him to dust.

You exhale slowly, unclenching your fists. The eyes that dot your arms close one by one, and you can feel the heat recede from your palms. The air suddenly strikes you as very cold.

The fires in the Garden Plaza are extinguished.

“Osyki?” the Hawk calls.

“Tybald.."

You run a shaky hand through your hair, likely leaving streaks of soot in perfect finger-wide stripes. "Thank you for the assist. And, uh, sorry about the mess."

"It would have been much messier without your aid," he tells you with a shrug. The plates on his shoulders clank noisily with the motion, piercing the post-combat whine that lives in your ears. "What -was- that thing?"

"Later," you tell him. "I'll explain to you later. For now..."

> I ought to help you clean the place up some.
> I probably ought to get home. I hurt everywhere.
> We have a party to return to. Where's Jun?
> Write in
>>
–--
You are Osyki, journeyman Totemist and first line of defense for your village against the rabid Behemoths wandering the land. Your master, the previous Totemist, fell in a battle against a terrible Behemoth, leaving the duty of defending your settlement to you. The long-awaited missive from the nation to the southwest has finally arrived. Your meeting with the highborn of Eluneia, and the negotiation therein, begins tomorrow. Another splinter of the Magus lies in pieces at your feet.

[[Previous Threads: http://suptg.thisisnotatrueending.com/archive.html?tags=totem

Plot Summary: http://pastebin.com/dqBSNUTM (Current up to thread 58.)

The Cast Thus Far / Binder's Log: http://pastebin.com/VsJpEUx3

Ask: ask.fm/DiarcaEXE

Wiki in progess: http://totemistquest.pbworks.com

Quest Twitter: @TotemistQuest]]
>>
>>42719406
>> I ought to help you clean the place up some.
We broke at least three ribs and probably have serious internal bleeding, I think we need an actual healer.
>>
>>42719406
>[x] I ought to help you clean the place up some.
>[x] But I also need healing, probably.
>>
> I ought to help you clean the place up some.

Also poor party people
>>
>>42719406
>I ought to help you clean the place up some.
>"After I lie down for a bit...."
>>
>>42719406
Welcome back Diarca!
>>
>>42719406
>I ought to help clean up the place some
>>
>>42719488
We should probably bind something good at regenerating at some point. Like a salamander or a jellyfish or something.
>>
>>42719406
> We have a party to return to. Where's Jun?
>>
>>42719406
>We have a party to return to. Where's Jun?
>>
You open your mouth to speak, but a sudden sharp twinge in your chest sees you doubled over coughing in short order. When you pull your gauntlet away from your mouth, the tinges of red in your palm have nothing to do with the Deep Siren gused into your gloves.

Shit.

“I would love to stick around and help clean up,” you tell Tybald. “But it looks like I may very seriously need a healer in short order. I've got at least one rib broken. Any heavy lifting is likely to complicate that.”

The Hawk winces. “Say no more. You return home for now. I'll see if I can't find a proper medical officer and send them after you. For the moment, it's best if you lie down and remain as still as possible to avoid--”

“Stop right there!”

The shout rings out over the rime-rimmed courtyard. You turn to see a regiment of Argent Knights moving to surround you, broadswords drawn, shields locked in a phalanx. Their captain (whom you recognize by his decorative emblems) points his blade at you.

“What manner of atrocity is this? The Gardens! By the goddess!” The man's eyes grow wide, and his mouth contorts into a snarl. “Seize these terrorists!”

“Shit,” Tybald mutters, drawing his spear from the earth. “Gentlemen!” he says, spreading his arms wide with his best booming Hawk laugh. “This man is not your enemy! Why, he has--”

“Enough, Hawk! Save your silvered tongue for your gallows confessions!”

The Hawk winces, momentarily stymied.

Not as popular as you had hoped, your newfound ally.

> Talk the men down. (1d100)
> Disappear into the night. (1d100)
> You've had a long night. Put this captain through the wall and rout the guard. (1d100)
> Write-in.
>>
>>42719406
>I ought to help you clean the place up some.
>>
Rolled 34 (1d100)

>>42719837
> You've had a long night. Tell him if he doesn't shut his mouth and listen you are going to put him through the wall.
>>
Rolled 8 (1d100)

>>42719837
>Disappear into the night. (1d100)
>>
Rolled 52 (1d100)

>>42719837
>Talk the men down. (1d100)
I mean we put the fires out, and I'm still pretty sure that another attempt to kill us was just a side benefit for the Magus, and he was here for another reason.
>>
Rolled 24 (1d100)

>>42719837
>Talk the men down. (1d100)
>>
>>42719837
>Talk the man down
>>
Rolled 61 (1d100)

>>42719837
> Disappear into the night. (1d100)
THE DICE GODS HAVE ABANDONED US! EVERYONE PANIC!
>>
>>42719777
That is a really good idea. Our wounds are supernatural so we should get a supernatural fix.
>>
Rolled 67 (1d100)

>>42719837
Whatever we do, this has become one huge clusterfuck of a diplomacy visit...

> Talk the men down. (1d100)
>>
>>42719919
The less time we spend healing the more time we have for science.
>>
Rolled 62 (1d100)

>six rolls
>not a single one above 70
Ouch
>>
The primordial spirit is sabotaging our dice! Its will is absolute! The old ones shall rise! Abandon all hope for they are coming!
>>
>>42719837
> Talk the men down. (1d100)

We just put out the fire that was here, and murdered the thing that did this. If they have any doubts they can ask Corporal Rime to confirm out identity, and anyone who was at the party can confirm that we were there before the fire broke out.

Also, we might still have the Ring of Reverberation on, maybe we can prove our innocence in this by replaying the sounds of us facewrecking the Magus, or an earlier conversation, like our chat with Jun around when the fire was noticed.
>>
>>42719979
We should get our cotemist on that. That binding (if it works) should be mandatory for all three if us since this is a dangerous business. Though maybe not the jellyfish. I'm scared of what we might find in the ocean.
>>
>>42720056
What? Naaaaaaah. It's not like we intentionally sacrificed our knowledge of the ocean to a spirit of mysteries in exchange for a glorified dousing rod.

BEACH EPISOOOOODE.
>>
>>42720085
Beach epsiode with Quinn? I am so down for this.
>>
>>42719837
Guys, I think we just started a war.
>>
>>42719871
>>42719875
>>42719881
Well, whatever we're doing, we're not doing it well.
>>
>>42720155
I don't think any of them really want to start on us. No one smart or in charge anyway.
>>
You put your hands up as nonthreateningly as you can possibly manage whilst wearing spiked gauntlets of chitin and ethereal flame. As the foot soldiers advance on you, you clear your throat. It sends a twinge of pain down your esophagus. You really don't have time for this.

>52

“Please,” you say, “Give me a moment to explain what has happened. I am not the one who committed these acts of senseless destruction.”

The men do not pause, but they do slow.

“Ask any who bore witness to this. They will tell you that I was attacked. I have come to Eluneia on a mission of peace.”

The captain breaks ranks, striding forward. His blade is naked in his grasp.

“I have wandered the Gardens of the Moon and reveled in their beauty. I would -never- lay harm to this fair city, and any damage I have inflicted on it was purely in the pursuit of the defense of its people.”

You wonder if he's listening at all. There's an ugly expression plastered over his face that reminds you uncomfortably of Walther's usual glower, and though his men have stopped after forming a rough half-circle before you, he continues to stride toward you.

-It is not within the capability of men to listen to reason. Assert your strength. Then they will take note of your words.-

(cont.)
>>
>>42720473

Modi's voice is a high-pitched whine in the back of your skull. You had almost forgotten that he was merged with you. That by itself is enough to unnerve you slightly.

“I submit to your capture, if that is what you wish,” you continue, “but I will not accused of terrorism!”

“Nor should he be!” the Hawk says, moving to stand beside you. “Captain Blaise, cease your advance, man! This fellow needs a physician, not your manacles!”

“I don't take orders from you!” the Captain hisses, though he does mark his pace. “The two of you will come with me for detainment. Willingly, should you wish to keep your limbs wholly attached. Once we have ascertained the nature of what occurred here, you will be released. Until then, and should you fail to comply, you are enemies of this kingdom.”

> Comply
> Negotiate (1d100)
> -Put the man down. He is a menace.-
> Write-in.
>>
Rolled 54 (1d100)

>>42720499
>Negotiate
>>
>>42720499
>Write-in
Run away into the Gardens of the Moon. If he even follows us he likely won't be able to find us.
>>
>>42720499
>Comply
>>
>>42720499
>> Write-in.
use the cloud walkers to run
>>
Rolled 8 (1d100)

>>42720499
> Negotiate (1d100)
>>
Rolled 44 (1d100)

>>42720499
> Negotiate
If I pass out my gear might run amok. Do you really want that?
>>
>>42720499
>Comply
Talking isn't working and we're severely injured.
>>
>>42720499
> Comply
>>
>>42720499
>Comply
>>
>>42720499
>Comply
>>
Rolled 58 (1d100)

>>42720499
> Comply

Try not to laugh too hard at his threats, fail and have a painful giggle fit, even with broken ribs we could smack them around like a gaggle of children.

Politely ask who Blaise's commanding officer is, so we know who ought to be informed of his treatment of dignitaries.

Lady Jun should be around nearby so try and find her as well, it can't exactly hurt our case.
>>
Rolled 72 (1d100)

>>42720499
>> Negotiate (1d100)
We'll comply if and only if we get actual medical attention, we're pretty fucked up.

IT IS INEVITABLE. ALL THAT SHALL BE HAS ALREADY BEEN DICTATED. ONLY YOUR SURVIVAL IS NOT ABSOLUTE.
>>
>>42720755
Hey look, the first 70+ roll of the day!
>>
I've just finished reading the archives and now i can take part in a live quest this is agreat eid
>>
>>42720755
Yeah if we can get a guarantee of not bleeding out in a cell while paperwork happens then sure. If not, well, go home until we dont feel like dying anymore. The crown knows exactly where we live atm, they can come find us.
>>
>>42720857
Also, mentioning we have a greater avatar of wraith and an avatar of hunger bound to us and us dying would likely cause both to be released, which would be bad for everyone in the immediate area.
>>
Rolled 9 (1d100)

>>42720499
>>
>>42720499
>Negotiate (1d100)
Have him bring that captain we talked with while we get medical treatment we need.
He is our main contact here in this city/country so it makes sense that he takes part in this.
>>
>>42720853
>this is agreat eid
it sure is.
What?
>>
>>42721101
THE END TIMES ARE UPON US! AS HAS BEEN FORTOLD
>>
If there was one mistake you refuse to make following in your master's footsteps, it is an inability to pick your battles. With a resigned sigh you lower your hand, placing them on your hips.

“Fine,” you tell the Captain. “Lead the way. But I warn you, should I pass out or succumb to my wounds while we're in transit, the spirits bound to me are going to make the remainder of your life very interesting.”

The man narrows his eyes in response.

“Well, you'll have to accept my apologies, captain.” The Hawk bows beside you. “I'm not nearly so accomadating as my new friend here. I must away!”

A torrent of silver feathers explodes beside you, a howling wall of argent-laced wind that pushes you a step away. Covering your face with your hand, you can make out the barest glimpse of the Hawk erupting skyward on a plume of ethereal light. There is a general cry of alarm as the soliders around you are forced back.

When the smokescreen clears, you are alone in a circle of armed hostiles.

-This is ludicrous. These weaklings owe you their lives.-

You allow the captain to escort you, his blade trained on you as you walk.
>>
>>42721134

“I would request Corporal Rime be brought to see me wherever I am to be detained,” you tell the captain, “So I might give my full report to him on my treatment thus far in the city.”

Captain Blaise grunts in response.

“And I am quite serious about that healer. I'm getting pretty light-headed.”

“Osyki!”

You turn to see Jun rushing toward you. Her hair whips wildly behind her as she sprints over the ruined cobblestones, and her face is a mask of fury.

“What the -hell- do you think you're doing, Blaise?” she demands, shouldering her way past two men in full kit and plate. “This is a foreign dignitary!”

“Your dignitary laid waste to a national treasure!” the captain seethes in response. “He's to be imprisoned and tried for his crimes!”

“You have no evidence to suggest that this was his doing!” Jun argues. “Release him! I will--”

“You will be silent if you're not keen on being charged with high treason and conspiracy to commit sedition!”

“Why you loathesome little--”

“Watch your tongue, girl, or see if I don't have it cut out!”

“How dare you! Do you know who my father--”

“Excuse me,” you mutter, feeling a little woozy on your feet. “Healer. Please.”

>1d100

> Sit down. Just for a moment.
> Maybe you can let -him- handle this while you focus on not passing out.
> Does anyone else hear that?
>>
>>42721153
>Does anyone else hear that?
>>
Rolled 8 (1d100)

>>42721153
> Does anyone else hear that?
THE MASTERS SHALL RISE UNTO THIS WORLD ONCE MORE!
>>
Rolled 50 (1d100)

>>42721153
>Does anyone else hear that?
>>
>>42721174
Dice gods why?
>>
Rolled 92 (1d100)

>>42721153
I think Jun seems pretty good so far, but I'm not sure if "Do you know who my father is" has ever produced desirable results.
>>
>>42721153
> Does anyone else hear that?
>>
Rolled 53 (1d100)

>>42721153
> Does anyone else hear that?
>>
Rolled 60 (1d100)

>>42721153
Stand strong Ösyki.
>>
>>42721198
Our hero!
>>
Rolled 68 (1d100)

>>42721153
Does anyone else hear that
>>
>>42721153
>> Does anyone else hear that?
>>
>>42720085
[spoilers]Beach paaaaaaartyyyyyy![/spoilers]
>>
Time for symbols?
>>
You stagger back a step, and all eyes slowly move to watch you. You can hear something -ringing-. It started low, small enough that you could hardly hear it over the argument, the clank of metal plates, the subtle metal shriek slowly gaining volume in the back of your psyche. A ringing noise, like a crystal plate tapped by a metal rod. At first you had chalked it up to the usual dying roar that fills your ears as your blood pressure slowly levels after a pitched fight, but this sound has persisted.

“Does anyone else hear that ringing sound?”

It takes you a moment to realize that the conversation around you has died.

“Osyki,” Jun says quietly, “What are you doing?”

“Bleeding,” you tell her as though it should be plainly obvious. “Quite a lot.”

“Put the spear down, Osyki.”

Spear?

You glance down. Magni's spear is wrapped tight in your grasp, metal teeth shredding the air.

What -is- that noise?

The guard captain whistles low under his breath, and it almost harmonizes with the tinnitus-esque tone that echoes inside your skull. The soldiers around you draw their swords once more.

“Does anyone else hear that noise?” you ask again.

> 92

Modi's spear sags heavy in your grasp, dragging you down. You collapse to your knees, feeling warmth pool beneath your tunic as your actions break bruised and ragged flesh. Fortunately for your fingers and knees, the tearing teeth of the spear recede into the weapon's surface as you collapse atop it.

The world is spinning violently now. Jun's face blends with the captains in a sickening swirl.

What is that NOISE?

And why does everything smell like flowers?

(cont.)
>>
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408 KB
408 KB JPG
The world comes together in the time it takes you to draw breath.

You find yourself staring up at a massive stone pillar. It reaches into the sky, but the sun overhead is too far away to be touched. Carved into its length are several stories, written in pictographic script. They are stories you have read before.

You turn to find yourself in the sky. The ground beneath your feet feels hard, and unyielding. Behind you, past the pillar, a grand temple awaits. Pale fire flickers on its steps. To your left, a blooming garden wafts floral scents your way from a few islands over. To your right, a shining crystal impales another island, which rotates in place. Long cracks of the darkest black devour the light that spills from the crystalline depths before they can breach the crystal's surface. In front of you is the expanse of emptiness, and a long, long drop.

The sky overhead is dark. The sky below is copper.

> Approach the Temple.
> Inspect the Pillar
> Investigate the Crystal
> Examine the Garden
> Jump
>>
>>42722107
>> Investigate the Crystal
i forgot which one dose what
>>
>>42722107
>Approach the Temple.
>>
>>42722107
Crystal, since it is blackening.

If we get time, we should visit temple next.
>>
>>42722107
>Fall
>>
>>42722161
That's just waking up
>>
>>42722107
> Investigate the Crystal
>>
>>42722107
>> Investigate the Crystal
>>
>>42722107
> Investigate the Crystal
>>
>>42722107
>Investigate the Crystal
Looks like shit is going down.
>>
Anyone remember what happened the last time we were here?
>>
>>42722244
Didn't we talk to the Earth guy?
>>
>>42722107
>Investigate the Crystal
>>
>>42722107
> Investigate the Crystal

It's been a while since we were last here, but I think the crystal could use some attention.

After that I think the garden would be nice to visit, we should check how it's been growing since we convinced the flowers to get along with the steel.

>>42722244
We got the Core of the Temple to stabilize and behave, mended the cracks in the crystal, and nurtured the blooming flowers so they were supported by the steel, rather than at odds with each other.
>>
>>42722107
Temple core is proly fucked again
>>
>>42722305
Well, a while from our perspective. From Osyki's it was last week. Dude dives into his inner world all the damn time.
>>
>>42722107
> Investigate the Crystal
So looks like that primal spirit's influence is making itself known. Let's try to cleanse as much of it as we can.
>>
>>42722107
>> Examine the Garden
UNPOPULAR CHOICE GO!
>>
>>42722244
Here's the last time we did this
>http://suptg.thisisnotatrueending.com/archive/25661185/
I don't remember what thread we first did this most esoteric of level-ups.
>>
>>42722606
Note that last time we were able to beat the DC every time, but this thread has had the dice gods frown upon us quite a bit.
>>
>>42722606
http://suptg.thisisnotatrueending.com/archive/25178914/

It was only a couple of threads between our first and second visit to the World Within.
>>
>>42722660
That's definitely not the right thread you just posted, it's this one:
http://suptg.thisisnotatrueending.com/archive/20655039/
>>
You head to your right. The silver-green crystal that impales the island has fractured again. The air here is thin. You feel dizzy. Your senses are dulled. The world around you wavers.

-A modicum of self awareness in this misty plane for the first time. A sense of self separate from the whole. Curious.-

The land peels away from the crystal in rough gouges. The darkness that radiates from the cracks seems to actively repel the earth of the island. The cracks sit not on the surface of the crystal (-for how impossible would that be?-), but in the air around it. Something moves in the space beyond the broken air.

-The crystal. Not the source of your power, but the place where it is refined. The seat of finesse and control.-

You are being watched.

> Peer beyond. What lies beneath the surface?
> Seal the cracks. Back to before.
> Root out the crystal. Remember what's underneath?
>>
>>42722844
> Peer beyond. What lies beneath the surface?
>>
>>42722844
> Seal the cracks. Back to before.

Get fucked herald, or Modi.
>>
>>42722844
> Peer beyond. What lies beneath the surface?
>>
>>42722844
> Root out the crystal. Remember what's underneath?
>>
>>42722844
>> Seal the cracks. Back to before.
Fuck that little bitch
>>
>>42722844
> Root out the crystal. Remember what's underneath?
Or
> Peer beyond. What lies beneath the surface?
>>
>>42722844
>Seal the cracks. Back to before.
>>
>>42722844
>Root out the crystal. Remember what's underneath?
>>
>>42722844
>> Seal the cracks. Back to before.
>>
>>42722844
> Peer beyond. What lies beneath the surface?
>>
>>42722844
> Peer beyond. What lies beneath the surface?
I'm hoping we can see what's watching us and deal with that directly, keep it from using what it's learning against us later.
>>
>>42722844
Huh, I do -not- remember what is underneath, it doesn't seem like it was specified, beyond maybe a green light?

But if it is the place where our power is refined and controlled, I don't really see how uprooting it is a good idea? Unless that's a way to purge the elemental corruption, but even then I don't know where we'd get a replacement.
>>
>>42722844
>Root out the crystal. Remember what's underneath?
>>
>>42722844
>> Peer beyond. What lies beneath the surface?
>>
>>42722844
Previous encounters with the crystal: Round 1:
>To your right, a shining crystal impales another island, which wobbles unsteadily.

>You head to your right. The crystal that impales the island sends pulses of energy rocketing outward every so often, destabilizing the island's ordinarily level flight.

>The land seems to be breaking up here, fragmenting. It may be dangerous to walk.

>You can't help but feel a little rushed. You walk quickly across the fragmenting ground, feeling the earth dissolve at your heels.

>That's okay. You can't move down if you've already moved forward.

>The ground seems to hold for just long enough. You step onto the circle of light surrounding the crystal. The ground is strange here, soft like sand, but at least it isn't falling. The crystal is humming. You've heard that melody before.

>You sing with the crystal.

>At least, you try.

>It's got a difficult pitch, and the melody's old. But you think, maybe, if you try hard and open yourself up to the melody, you can make a beautiful harmony.

>The hum starts low in your throat, but soon it vibrates throughout your being. You can feel the resonance, but you're not there. Not just yet.

>You need a little connection.

>You hum and you hum, but you can't seem to find the right pitch, the right tone. It's so close, the resonance, the perfect alignment. You hum for what seems like hours before you realize what you've done wrong, and you feel a little silly.

>You fall silent, and so does the crystal. And in doing so, you harmonize perfectly. The ground ceases crumbling behind you, and a pair of green circles burn on your wrists. You feel a little more connected. The sand beneath your feet feels like home.

>To your right the green crystal has stabilized, and the small ring of sand has expanded outward into a cloud of shining diamond dust.
>>
>>42723185
As for the second time around:
>To your right, a shining crystal impales another island, which rotates in place.

>You head to your right. The crystal that impales the island glows with green light. The air seems thick here, heavy to breathe and difficult to walk through. Your reflexes are dulled. The world is stagnant.

>The land seems to be breaking up here, fragmenting. Boulders occasionally break away from one another and collide in slow-moving avalanches. It may be dangerous to walk.

>You feel a bit rushed.

>You defy the feeling of being rushed. Taking your time, you respect the laws of this place. In doing so, they respect you. Though it takes you a long time, you manage to walk in a straight line through the rocky debris.

>You step onto the circle of light surrounding the crystal. The ground is strange here, hard and smooth like glass. The crystal is silent. You can see cracks lining its surface, and a deep emerald radiance shining from within.

>Your skin burns in its presence.

>You fix the crystal.

>At least, you try.

>The cracks are deep, and hot to the touch. Your senses are fogged, and your chest hurts from the effort of drawing breath.

>But maybe, just maybe, you can remember the old tune.

>Now, how did that first note sound?

>You start from nothing, and work your way up. A hum here, a whistle there. All at once, a harp is in your hands, and the crystal knows the tune. Each note seals a crack, each chord a rift. Eventually the green fire is sealed inside again, and you can see yourself smiling in the mirror-like surface of the shard.

>Your wrists feel unshackled. The glass beneath your feet cracks twice.

>To your right, a shining crystal impales another island, which pulses with a gentle silvery light. The cloud that envelops it shines like the night sky.
>>
>>42723185
>>42723272
In conclusion it... kind of seems like even though we did something similar both times, we got different results? Like first we turned the crystal green and got those shackles on our wrists, then we turned it silver again and unshackled our wrists? Yeah I don't know.
>>
The crystal is whole. You must learn what lies behind the prison that restrains its light.

You step across the retreating earth of the island below. The broken web that sits flush on the plane of the air is an abyss. Shades of black ripple over one another in the thin veins of nothing.

You place your eye close and peer beyond.

Your senses are confused. Staring at that which cannot be seen is an exercise in frustration.

You stare at everything around it, instead.

The vault of heaven glitters within the fissure. Far away, you can see stars racing to burn themselves out with cataclysmic force.

But what lurks in the spaces in between?

> 1d100. One of the first five rolls must beat 70.
>>
Rolled 48 (1d100)

>>42723411
>>
Rolled 75 (1d100)

>>42723411
dice save us!
>>
Rolled 95 (1d100)

>>42723411
>>
Rolled 17 (1d100)

>>42723411
>>
Rolled 85 (1d100)

>>42723411
The dice pool must be completed, even if it means snatching defeat from the jaws of victory.
>>
>>42723425
>>42723435
>>42723458
3/5 not bad.
>>
You guys think this time we can go somewhere in the Temple that isn't the Core? Just for funsies?
>>
>>42723458
The dice gods reward your honesty.
>>
>>42723425
>>42723435
>>42723458
The 5's are with us.
>>
>>42723476
We've been to the garden and the pillar. Not as often, though, I admit. So yeah, let's try to investigate them. I don't trust the garden after that spirit hit us with the whammy. It's probably full of lilac now.
>>
>>42723476
Core is a vital thing though, we need to maintain it
>>
>95

You can feel the cold of the void numbing your face, even through the pane of force that separates you from the howling abyss. You unfocus your gaze. You must allow the whole of the picture to come to you. Unfiltered.

The thing that floats between the stars is massive beyond thought. There are no words to describe the scope of it in your tongue. The tomb that sits open is the antithesis of sight, and so you can only describe it by what you know it is not.

It is not awake. Within, it slumbers fitfully. Where it stirs, a star collapses inward unto itself.

It is not aware. The silence of the void around it forbids the transmission of light or sound.

It is not alone. You can see shuddering movements in the place that is not around the monolith. Shuddering, flickering twitches.

You are not alone. A single eye, white as the heart of the stars fills your vision.

-Time to go.-

You peel yourself away from the cracks. The color has gone from your face, your hands. You do not know where it went.

-This cannot stay here.-

The cracks cannot stay, but this is still your island. If they will not leave, you will move the world around them.

The crystal, once bound by darkness, now is not.

You feel a little wiser, but a little more afraid.
>>
>>42723655
well shit.
>>
You find yourself staring up at a massive stone pillar. It reaches into the sky, but the sun overhead is too far away to be touched. Carved into its length are several stories, written in pictographic script. They are stories you have read before.

You turn to find yourself in the sky. The ground beneath your feet feels hard, and unyielding. Behind you, past the pillar, a grand temple awaits. Pale fire flickers on its steps. To your left, a blooming garden wafts floral scents your way from a few islands over. To your right, the cracks in the open air hum without noise. The crystal is free from its cage. It hovers above the island, shedding radiance like a second sun. In front of you is the expanse of emptiness, and a long, long drop.

The sky overhead is filled with silver stars. The sky below is copper.

> Approach the Temple.
> Investigate the Crystal
> Examine the Garden
> Jump
>>
>>42723697
> Approach the Temple.
>>
>>42723697
> Examine the Garden

Let's check out how our cute little hanging garden is doing.
>>
>>42723697
> Examine the Garden
>>
>>42723697

[[Sorry, deleted the wrong line.

Options:


> Approach the Temple.
> Inspect the Pillar
> Examine the Garden
> Jump ]]
>>
>>42723697
>> Approach the Temple.
>>
>>42723655
See, now that sounds like the primal spirit trying to be resurrected through us, to me. So then the thing watching us isn't its herald's influence. What is it, then?

>>42723697
> Inspect the Pillar
>>
>>42723697
>Examine the Garden
>>
>>42723736
>> Examine the Garden
>>
>>42723736
> Approach the Temple.
>>
You walk to the left, following the vined-limned path to the Garden. As you walk, the floral aroma intensifies. You climb down a curling trunk of dark bark, landing in the garden.

My, how it has blossomed.

Steel beams support climbers and sprouts of dazzling color. Trees climb high into the air, trunks questing toward parts unknown, branches as fingers laden with verdance. The steel cage that was once the floor is a woven mat of grass and creepers, tiny insects and lizards of pure light scurrying to and fro just out of reach.

-Ah, the garden. I must admit, I was never quite sure what purpose this place served-.

The stream at your feet flows uphill. High above the branches, a strange light flickers fitfully.

-That isn't right.-

You hear soft strains of music floating through the boughs.

> Investigate the wayward notes.
> Follow the unlikely water.
> Upward. Ever upward.
>>
>>42724104
> Investigate the wayward notes.
>>
>>42724104
> Follow the unlikely water.
>>
>>42724104
>Investigate the wayward notes.
>>
>>42724104
Is that Modi talking to us or ourself?
>>
>>42724104
>> Follow the unlikely water.

did the garden get fucked up as well
>>
>>42724202
>> Follow the unlikely water.
Probably, hes been too polite and straight forward to be the primal spirit, which says something.
>>
>>42724104
>Follow the unlikely water.
>>
The stream follows backwards, and so must you. You walk carefully, placing one foot behind the other in as straight a line as you can manage. Where the water meanders, so do you. It's not as difficult as it may sound. You carved the path yourself, once upon a time.

At the end of the stream is a pool, and within the pool is an island. You recognize the shrine at the island's center, a tall sea-shell bound in stone and arcane designs.

But where is its owner?

One by one, you become aware of the denizens of this place. By your count, a dozen shapes in all climb, slither, and drift through the woodlands that ring this place. You feel secure here. This is a place of power.

The music did not follow you.

You wander across the surface of the water,k stepping lightly over the waves. Each step sends ripples flowing outward beneath your feet. You catch glimpses of half-remembered writings in the reflections of every wave.

Soon, you stand before the shrine.

Who will you reach out to?

>1d100. One of the first five rolls must beat a 60.

> The denizens of the wood. They are your protectors.
> The one who owns the shrine. You long for guidance.
> The one who stalks you, even now.
> Anyone who will listen. Anyone at all.
>>
>>42724217
Quick refresher on who or what is the Primal Spirit?
>>
Rolled 18 (1d100)

>>42724453
> The denizens of the wood. They are your protectors.
>>
Rolled 8 (1d100)

>>42724453
>The one who stalks you, even now.
>>
Rolled 43 (1d100)

>>42724453
> The one who stalks you, even now.
>>
Rolled 4 (1d100)

>>42724453
> The denizens of the wood. They are your protectors.
>>
Rolled 24 (1d100)

>>42724453
>>
>>42724491
>>42724501
>>42724506
>>42724507
>>42724508

Well shit.
>>
>>42724491
>>42724501
>>42724506
>>42724507
>>42724508
These rolls are fuckin pathetic...
>>
Rolled 94 (1d100)

just for the hell of it
>>
>>42724540
>>42724536
It'd have to have happened eventually. I think this is the first time we've failed one of these Inner World DCs. Unfortuantely I'm pretty sure that means we just dealt ourselves irreversible damage.
>>
>>42724580
Oh, fuck you.
>>
>>42724580
well fuck you dude
>>
>>42724580
everytime.
>>
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>>42724580
>>
Rolled 69 (1d100)

>>42724476
The thing that will be staring at us when the world ends. The thing that will kill all that we value, and ruin everything we have strived for.
>>
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>>42724580
Haha goddamnit.
>>
>>42724580
Yeah that's about right. The last two rolls lulled us into a false sense of security.
>>
>>42724613
That isn't really an answer. Like is it that weird mirror-thing we met before?
>>
Rolled 72 (1d100)

>>42724648
It is a mirror to the very essence of the universe, of the world as it once was, and as it shall be again, it is a herald to the new age, or to the old one. It masters are coming, and they hunger.

THEY ARE COMING THEY ARE COMING THEY ARE COMING THEY ARE COMING THEY ARE COMING THEY ARE COMING THEY ARE COMING THEY ARE COMING
>>
>>42724648
It's a strange spirit that seems to be stalking us. We can't ever seem to look right at it and it ambushed us on the way to the moon kingdom.
>>
>>42724588
Hopefully it just means nothing changes since it doesn't seem like we were doing anything really delicate this time around, but I am a bit concerned nonetheless. Unless it's nearing meltdown I feel like we should avoid the Core for somewhere safer, for now at least.
>>
You place your hands on either side of the shrine, opening your mind and reaching out to whomever is listening. Lines of silver dance in the air.







You are alone.

You are utterly alone.

You can feel the darkness that teems at the edges of the clearing. The lines of light that connect you shatter, raining slivers of glass down on you. You dare not turn around.

You must move forward. Perhaps next time.

You fervently hope there is a next time.
>>
>>42724476
The servant of a creature that dwells outside linear time. It claims that we will set its master free, that this is inevitable, and the only choice we have in the matter is whether we survive the process or not. Though since "surviving the process" involves it hollowing us out and using us as a vessel for its dark power, it's not really a choice that matters.
>>
You find yourself staring up at a massive stone pillar. It reaches into the sky, but the sun overhead is too far away to be touched. Carved into its length are several stories, written in pictographic script. They are stories you have read before.

You turn to find yourself in the sky. The ground beneath your feet feels hard, and unyielding. Behind you, past the pillar, a grand temple awaits. Pale fire flickers on its steps. To your left, a blooming garden wafts floral scents your way from a few islands over. Night has fallen over those woods; they are not safe to tread. To your right, the cracks in the open air hum without noise. The crystal is free from its cage. It hovers above the island, shedding radiance like a second sun. In front of you is the expanse of emptiness, and a long, long drop.

The sky overhead is filled with silver stars. The sky below is absent.

You are nearly out of time.

> Approach the Temple.
> Investigate the Crystal
> Jump
>>
>>42724750
> Approach the Temple.
>>
>>42724750
> Approach the Temple.
>>
>>42724750
> Approach the Temple.
>>
>>42724750
>> Approach the Temple.
>>
>>42724750
>The sky below is absent.
Oh dear.
>>
>>42724750
> Jump
>>
>>42724750
>Approach the Temple.
>>
>>42724723
Is there a lesson we can learn from this? I mean everything is so abstract here that it's really hard to understand what action might be more difficult than the other, and thus have a lower dc/one we might have a modifier in. I mean clearly failing is very bad, but I'm not sure how arbitrary it is or isn't.
>>
>>42724845
Are you trying to make sense of a vision quest anon?
>>
>>42724845
Yeah I've never really liked how abstract it is
>>
>>42724845
Vision quest stuff isn't supposed to be an exact science. You just come out of the fugue and feel better or worse about something. That's it.
>>
>>42724867
A little? I think the water and shrine was meant to be tied to Boand so I'm pretty sure we can understand it if we try.
>>42724878
I don't know, I like how dreamlike it is. I kind of wish we could talk more instead of just doing the prompts and dice rolling. Like discourse might be helpful in this instance.
>>
>>42724929
I don't see why we couldn't request to delay a vote if you want to introduce a discussion on one of the choices. You just have to speak up.
>>
>>42724908
Yeah but normally it seems like it's not entered through heavy blood loss.
>>
>>42724982
Heavy blood loss, meditation, drugs, more or less anything to induce lightheadedness or a sense of spirituality seems to function
>>
>>42723552
Yeah but we have no idea what the library or reflecting pool even do.
>>
>>42725001
Welcome to dreams motherfucker. The reflecting pool influences our ability to perceive the spirit world and the library keeps our kidneys functioning. Who the hell knows?
>>
>>42725041
I'm just saying I'd like to see them instead of always going to the core. By now I wouldn't be surprised if the library is dusty and the pool filled with algae
>>
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You walk past the monolithic pillar, paying its runes and inscriptions no mind. The temple is where you spend most of your time here, and with good reason. Its oracles are sound, and its pools refreshing.

The silver spirit-fire that flickers along the walls does not frighten you. Though it is uncommon to see the temple's defenses so active, you know that within its walls you will be safe. Lines of green trace a path for you to follow on the stones below.

You climb the ascending steps to the entrance carved into the temple's side, about halfway up its height. The cool, damp air soothes your frayed nerves. The smell here is that of aged parchment and silence. The hallway splits into two familiar paths, and you know that they will split again. Though time is short, you believe you have time to visit two destinations if you marshal yourself wisely.

>[ ]Visit the Library. A flash of insight is required.
>[ ]The Wading Pools may hold an unexpected visitor.
>[ ]Peruse the Hall of Vision. You have need of introspection.
>[ ]Descend into the Core. (Consumes both destinations)
>>
>>42725162
>>[ ]Visit the Library. A flash of insight is required.
>>
>>42725162
>>[ ]Peruse the Hall of Vision. You have need of introspection.
>>
>>42725162
>[ ]Visit the Library. A flash of insight is required.
>[ ]Peruse the Hall of Vision. You have need of introspection.
>>
>>42725162
>[ ]Visit the Library. A flash of insight is required.
>>
>>42725162
>[ ]Visit the Library. A flash of insight is required.
>>
>>42725162
>>[ ]Descend into the Core. (Consumes both destinations)
>>
>>42725162
>[ ]Visit the Library. A flash of insight is required.
>>
>>42725162
Peruse vision Hall.
>>
>>42725162
>[ ]Descend into the Core. (Consumes both destinations
>>
You take the left branch, tracing your hand over the arcane inscriptions that line the walls. You ascend toward the highest level of the temple, though you don't climb to the peak.

-Ah, the temple. The core of your being. Your heart and mind lie behind these walls, you know.-

It's been a long time since you visited the library. The doors loom before you. Set into the double doors are a pair of complex stone seals. You place your hands atop them, and the seals shift and rotate beneath your fingers.

You struggle to remember the combination required to enter. It has been a long time.

After a time, though, the doors slide open. Some things are ingrained.

The library stretches out before you. Bookshelves lined with scrolls and stone tablets hang in equal place of glory and importance alongside one another.

-The seat of knowledge. A good choice.-

All you know lies arrayed before you.

> 1d100. One of the first five rolls must beat...

> Tell me more about my Foci. (45)
> Tell me more about my enemy. (60)
> Tell me more about my allies. (65)
> Tell me more about the world. (70)
>>
Rolled 1 (1d100)

>>42725694
>Tell me more about the world. (70)
>>
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>>42725718
Hooboy.
>>
>>42725718
>>
>>42725718
Are you fucking serious.
>>
Rolled 34 (1d100)

>>42725694
>> Tell me more about my enemy. (60)
specifically, the creepy dark stalker and what it did to me. Not our cloak spirit, the slenderman guy
>>
Rolled 6 (1d100)

>>42725694
>> Tell me more about my enemy. (60)
fuck it might as well try regardless of captain 1
>>
Rolled 49 (1d100)

>>42725694
> Tell me more about my enemy. (60)

>>42725718
PRAISE CRITICUS!
>>
Rolled 93 (1d100)

>>42725694
>> Tell me more about my allies. (65)
>>
>>42725694
>Tell me more about my enemy. (60)
>>
>>42725718
How do you check dice again?
>>
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>>42725718
>>
>>42725772
it's legit, you're in denial
>>
this is why i hate roll and chose.
>>
>>42725788
Well back when shadow quest was running I briefly discovered how to roll a 1 on a 1d100 at will. Forgot how to do it or it might have been fixed but it would be nice to know.
>>
>>42725694
>Tell me more about the dice gods and why they hate me
>>
>>42725825
and also during the course of shadow quest it was established that it got fixed
nice memory
>>
>>42725823
Technically our choice doesn't matter anymore, but yeah, decision and then dice seems like a better system, but it takes a bit more time.
>>
>>42725825
that got removed during SQs run though
>>
Rolled 22 (1d100)

>>42725694
hay, that 93 still passes, don't see what you all are freaking out over.
>>
>>42725867
Critfails have taken precedence in the past.
>>
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>>42725867
m8, are you new, trolling or just dense? crits take precedence
>>
>>42725859
I did say I forgot.
>>42725866
I should have said nothing. I could have been a terror on all quests I didn't like. Or at least I could have freaked people out by saying something like what could possibly go wrong and rolling a 1.
>>
>>42725892
what a disgusting way to handle dice, especially when you roll more that one.
>>
>>42725896
what do you mean "no candy?"
>>
>>42725901
buddy, there were a dozen ways to roll a purposeful 1, they all got removed at once. I'm sure someone else also knew how to do your method
>>42725926
The candy is called Rohypnol
>>
>>42725945
Let me have this. The panic I briefly induced was wonderful and totally accidental.
>>
[[You are all incredibly lucky this isn't a roll where critical failure makes a difference. The dice gods do love you. It's just tough love.

When I ask for the first out of X must pass, it's strictly numerical. No critical successes or failures.

Writing.]]
>>
>>42725988
i still say rolling and choosing is bad since crits can decide what we vote
>>
Jesus christ what is wrong with these dice
>>
>>42725988
oh lordy lordy lordy you saved mah life
>>
>>42726032

[[ The roll doesn't effect the vote it is attached to. I take the first five rolls regardless, then tally the votes.

That said, and in hindsight, I can see how that system might be abused. In the future, we'll stick to choose then roll.]]
>>
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>>42725988
Praise OP
>>
>>42725945
it sounds delicious! let me have some!
>>
>>42725988
I suppose we just don't get any special insight out of the action. That's what normally happens, right? Eh, whatever.

>>42726044
Need to remember we were wrecking shit last few threads in the fight with magusman the living shadow of shit.
>>
>>42726032
I wouldn't say crits matter, but I would agree with your lesser point that, since we got a 93, there's no reason not to vote one for learning more about the world since that has the highest DC, but it seems like everyone is good with learning about the enemy for now.
>>
>>42726067
welp, Diarca proved me wrong, i guess im the one who takes the roofies
>>
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You have been laid low for the third time in as many...months? Weeks? It's difficult to keep track of time in this place. It doesn't matter.

You must return to basics.

You must be prepared.

You pore over the sum total of your knowledge. The books and scrolls erupt from the shelves, swirling around you in a maelstrom until you float in the center of a perfect sphere of knowledge.

Your eyes scan the world around you, and from it, an epiphany is born.

>93

> The Magus' splinters are vulnerable to emotional manipulation. His latest splinter recognized you, implying that all of his projections feed information back to him, either in real time or once destroyed. He may still know your location. If he does not already, he will soon.

> The Herald has approached you physically, but it was unable to confront you or interact with you physically until you entered the space between worlds. It seems to be unable to project itself fully into the material plane, meaning as long as you can avoid attracting notice from its ilk while you walk the space between worlds, you will be safe. Furthermore, short jaunts don't seem to have drawn its attention. Only your lengthy journeys have attracted notice.

> You seem to have lost stability in your inner world since the Herald marked you. In exchange, you have grown in understanding of the void. It's clear this thing's master—whatever it is heralding—exists in that place. You may be able to gain information from something that exists close to the stars. The obvious choice presents itself at your current location. Otherwise, you may be able to tap that connection through extended meditation to glean the knowledge for yourself.

(cont.)
>>
>>42726285

> Though you have had a run-in with the Basilisk Wyrm's brood, you have yet to encounter anything that could be classified as a true behemoth. Nature abhors a vacuum, and with Pointsmar due to move across the mountains soon, the environmental upheaval may attract notice. A half-glimpsed memory of a note in one of Ayren's larger books yields two names for further investigation: The Tyrant Wyrm and the Allmother Mud. You will need to be prepared.

> The ocean is not a place for mortals.

You slump to your hands and knees as the sphere of knowledge you have formed disgorges you. Papers and ink are scattered like the remains of a slaughter around the room. You will need to give the library time to recover. As you turn to leave, though, one final scrap catches your eye. You pocket it on your way out the door.

Where to?

>The Wading Pools may hold an unexpected visitor.
>Peruse the Hall of Vision. You have need of introspection.
> Leave the temple. You're finished here now.
>>
>>42726305
>>The Wading Pools may hold an unexpected visitor.
>>
>>42726305
>>The Wading Pools may hold an unexpected visitor.
I want to see this visitor.

Also
>The Wading Pools may hold an unexpected visitor.

Cthulhu slumbers.
>>
>>42726305
>The ocean is not a place for mortals.

Really didn't need a vision quest to figure that out.
>>
>>42726305

>The Wading Pools may hold an unexpected visitor.
>>
>>42726305
Wadomg pool.

Naiad lady is there, duh.
>>
>>42726305
>>The Wading Pools may hold an unexpected visitor.
>>
>>42726305
>The Wading Pools may hold an unexpected visitor.
>>
>>42726305
>Peruse the Hall of Vision. You have need of introspection.
That's some good information. Let's see what else we can get.
>>
>>42726305
>>The Wading Pools may hold an unexpected visitor.
>>
>>42726305
So no beach episodes then?
>>
>>42726509
maybe by thread 450 we might be able to knock Old Man Ocean back to his depths
>>
>>42726305
>Peruse the Hall of Vision. You have need of introspection.
>Tyrant Wyrm and the Allmother Mud
Who names these things?
>>
>>42726305
>>The Wading Pools may hold an unexpected visitor.
>>
>>42726305
>The Wading Pools may hold an unexpected visitor.
>>
>>42726509
It makes me wonder how trade and long-distance travel works. Is it safe enough near the coasts that you can travel by ship so long as you don't try to cross the sea, or is it completely forbidden? Maybe that's why the civilization that founded our village collapsed, because having no naval transport ruined their ability to keep in touch with their colonies.
>>
>>42726708
Whoever see them and makes it back alive first.
>>
>>42726708
Ayren, probably. No one ever accused him of being clever with words.
>>
>>42726530
We're only 13 years away from that.
>>
>>42726745
Your optimism is astounding.
>>
>>42726738
>It makes me wonder how trade and long-distance travel works.
Motherfucker you walk. There are giant snakes and velociraptors in the woods, what do you think is in the water? Why would anyone ever live near something like that?
>>
>>42726768
Real time.
>>42726738
>>42726778
Apart from that do we even live anywhere near the coast? Not being able to ride boats is hardly why things fell apart.
>>
>>42726708
I don't know, they have an appropriately mythic feel to them, in my opinion. How many names of mythological monsters, in their native language, are just things like "Mother of Demons" or "Crusher of Skulls"?
>>
-Going up?-

You spiral up the final flight of stairs, emerging onto a basin set into the roof. The mists cling tightly to the temple's peak, shrouding your view of the islands around.

You stand in a cloud of empty white.

The pool is perfectly still. The breeze that blows at this height does not touch the surface of the perfectly placid water.

You come to the wading pool to clear your mind and focus your spirit. The water is just deep enough to cover your head at the very lowest point of the pool. With all outside distractions removed, only you remain.

-A clever idea. The regenerative powers of this place will speed your recovery.-

The focusing effect utter solitude has, when self-inflicted and prepared for, is something you have found to your liking.

As you stride into the pool the simple tunic and slacks that clothe you melt away. The water is very slightly warmer than your body. You can feel the movement of the pool around you, but no sensation besides.

You had a feeling someone would meet you here. Where are they hiding?

> Beneath the water.
> On the far side of the pool.
> Behind you.
>>
>>42726834
> On the far side of the pool.
>>
>>42726834
> Beneath the water.
>>
>>42726834
>> On the far side of the pool.
>>
>>42726778
Well, sure, but that's a lot slower, much harder to coordinate an empire that way.

>>42726815
It wouldn't apply directly to us, no. It's been stated that it's the expansion of the swamp and the Basilisk Wyrm moving in that cut us off. But it would impede the civilization as a whole, make it harder for them to hold land, cause them to contract and shrink as they go into decline after over-extending themselves.
>>
>>42726834
>On the far side of the pool
Other two are obvious, who is this?
>>
>>42726834
>> Beneath the water.
Hello thar Old One
>>
>>42726834
> Beneath the water.
>>
>>42726864
>Well, sure, but that's a lot slower, much harder to coordinate an empire that way.
Its a lot easier and faster than from inside a sea monsters belly.
>>
>>42726285
This is pretty neat in that this is all connections Osyki has subconsciously made. Though I'm not sure how we can tell the Moon that we've been marked by the Herald without her immediately trying to destroy us.
>>
>>42726834
>Behind you.
>>
>>42726834
>Beneath the water.
>>
>>42726834
>On the far side of the pool.
>>
>>42726834
>Under the water
>>
>>42726834
> Behind you.

>>42726891
Not arguing that. I'm saying that compared to our world, where countries could use high-speed travel by ship, they're at a disadvantage when it comes to expanding their territory.
>>
>>42726834
> Behind you.
>>
>>42726935
Well they might be able to ride giant birds or something so who knows?
>>
>>42726834
>> Behind you.
Forcing a 3 way tie because hail satan.
>>
>>42726834
Could it be?

Boand?
>>
>>42726834
>Behind you.
>>
>>42726834
> Behind you
>>
>>42726834
>On the far side of the pool.
>>
>>42726778
Yeah I mean... we've heard a lot about how awful Behemoths are, can you even imagine what it would be like to deal with a Leviathan?
>>
>>42727112
Box jellyfish a mile wide. Think about it.
>>
>>42727112
well, as long as you stayed near the shoreline, some of the larger ones would probably leave you alone, not much point wasting energy on something too small to sustain you. assuming they need to eat.
>>
>>42727155
They are explicitly magic. Also giant enemy crabs.
>>
>>42726898
Agreed. At first it felt a little like cheating but I realized this is all stuff the character himself has been piecing together.
>>
>>42727112
I'm more worried about finding a Ziz.
>>
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>>42727131
I was thinking something like this, although that's a cool thought too

Captcha: adorf rd
No, captcha. Genocide comes later.
>>
>>42727185
/fit/ pls, he's as dead as elvis
>>
>>42727219
Literally anything from the sea made bigger. 40 foot tall sea cucumber. Most horrifying thing ever.
>>
>>42727219
Yeah, a gulper eel the size of...well, just the size of a killer whale would be able to swallow a ship whole. Make them much bigger and they could eat the world.
>>
>>42727170
Giant crabs would be both great and horrifying.
Though I don't know what point you are trying to get at with magic?
>>
>>42727293
They probably don't need to eat a realistic amount to stay alive. They probably just eat anything regardless of size.
>>
>>42726834
>Inside of you
It's a SPOOKY SKELLINGTON
>>
A shiver runs down your spine.

Acting on your suspicions, you continue wading forward into the water. You step down the gentle slope until you are neck-deep in the pool, then slowly turn on the spot.

Though the mists partially veil the figure, you would know the red and gold robe that leans against the doorway ever so casually anywhere. The wings that scream metal obscenities are, for once, silent—their gears are bound in chains of flickering silver light. The argent threads through the cogs, arresting their perpetual momentum.

Modi Magni seems calm.

-I did not think it would carry me here with you,- he says, -but here we are.-

You do not respond as he straighten, moving to float out over the edge of the temple.

-It is an interesting scape. Calmer by far than your predecessor's. The lack of searing metal chains driven into my flesh to keep me pinned and vulnerable is a nice touch. The flowers, too.-

“It doesn't seem your style,” you tell Magni.

-It is not.- he concedes.

There is a beat of absolute silence.

-Even if I am not with you, I do not think you will ever be alone in this place again.-

You nod slowly. “I feel as though I have been watched since we arrived.”

-You have. The thing's essence lurks inside you.-

> Can you excise it?
> Did Ayren torture you?
> Where did you come from, Modi Magni?
> You seem at peace.
>>
>>42727551
>> Can you excise it?
>>
>>42727551
> Can you excise it?
If not, then
> You seem at peace
>>
>>42727551
> You seem at peace.
> Can you excise it?
>>
>>42727551
>Did Ayren torture you?

>Can you excise it?
>>
>>42727551
>Where did you come from, Modi Magni?
>Did Ayren torture you?
>You seem at peace.
>Can you excise it?

in that order.
>>
>>42727551
>> You seem at peace.
>> Can you excise it?
>>
>>42727551
> You seem at peace.
> Where did you come from, Modi Magni?
>>
>>42727551
>You seem at peace.
>>
>>42727551
>> You seem at peace.
> Where did you come from, Modi Magni?
>>
>>42727551
>Modi Magni seems calm.

Panic.
>>
>>42727551
>Can you excise it?
>>
>>42727551
> Can you excise it?
> You seem at peace.
>>
>>42727551
I forget if we've asked this before or not, but could we ask Modi Magni if his name translates to something in an old tongue or if his name signifies himself and nothing else?
>>
>>42727659
eye of the fucking storm right there
>>
>>42727551
>> You seem at peace.
WHY
>>
>>42727713
It does, at least in our world. Modi and Magni were the names of the god Thor's sons, meaning "Angry" and "Strong". I presume it means something similar in this setting.
>>
>>42727551
>> You seem at peace.
ALL IS LOST ALL IS LOST ALL IS LOST ALL IS LOST ALL IS LOST ALL IS LOST ALL IS LOST ALL IS LOST ALL IS LOST ALL IS LOST
>>
File: Mozgus - Placid face.jpg (18 KB, 332x236)
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>> You seem at peace.
>>
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>>42727791
So if I understand you correctly, you're saying
>>
>>42727551
> You seem at peace.
>>
>>42727551
>> Can you excise it?
who cares why his at peace
>>
>>42728170
He's a spirit of wrath

When the spirit of wrath is calm, something has gone inside out
>>
Another moment of silence. You imagine this is what standing in the eye of a hurricane must feel like.

“You seem at peace, Modi Magni.”

-Incorrect.- the word is level. Neutral. -I am satiated. Subjugating the essence of that pompous fool was invigorating. My victories are somewhat sullied by your irritating tendency to pass out from blood loss after every major conflict.-

“It's a habit I'm working on curbing,” you tell him.

-Work harder. Your master's most important tool was that accursed blade, and not for its ability to spread cheese. Your defenses are laughable.-

Floating as you are in the wading pool, his words utterly fail to rile you.

“This is the most lucid I've ever been here,” you note. “Is that your doing?”

-In part. Your focus is also improving.-

You can feel your time in the pool—the world—drawing to a close.

“Is this spirit something you can excise from me?” you ask him.

-I can try. You may not survive the process. In your current state, you would certainly perish. We can speak of this more when there are not prying ears lurking in every cranny.-

You nod.

“I understand.”

-More and more. And yet, so little.-

Your head slips under the water and, for a time, you are at peace.

Choose One:
> Increase Void Affinity
> Increase Spiritual Reserves

Choose One:
> Unlock Magni Transformation Lv. 2
> Unlock Void Tap

>[[Your understanding of your spiritual pathways has evolved. You can now accurately self-diagnose your levels of elemental corruption through meditation.]]
>>
>>42728298
>Increase Spiritual Reserves
>Unlock Magni Transformation Lv. 2
>>
>>42728298
>Increase Void Affinity
>Unlock Void Tap
>>
>>42728298
> Increase Spiritual Reserves
> Unlock Magni Transformation Lv. 2

Modi Magni seems pretty cool when he isn't trying to murder everything
>>
>>42728298
>> Increase Spiritual Reserves
> Unlock Magni Transformation Lv. 2
>>
>>42728330
I'm going to support this. Maybe making us less voidy will annoy this herald thing.
>>42728335
In fairness he is mostly just trying to kill humans and dragons.
>>
>>42728298
>> Increase Spiritual Reserves
> Unlock Magni Transformation Lv. 2
>>
>>42728298
> Increase Spiritual Reserves
> Unlock Magni Transformation Lv. 2
Increasing Earth Affinity furthered our elemental corruption. I don't want to assume that Void Affinity won't do the same thing.
>>
>>42728298
>Increase Spiritual Reserves
>Unlock Magni Transformation Lv. 2
>>
>>42728298
>Increase Void Affinity
>Unlock Magni Transformation Lv. 2
>>
>>42728298
>>Increase Spiritual Reserves
>>Unlock Magni Transformation Lv. 2
>>
>>42728298
>Increase Void Affinit
>Unlock Magni Transformation Lv. 2
>>
>>42728298
> Increase Spiritual Reserves
> Unlock Magni Transformation Lv. 2
>>
>>42728298
>> Increase Spiritual Reserves
> Unlock Magni Transformation Lv. 2
Booooooooosting
>>
So, uh, I just remembered that we warned the Eluneian Guard that our passing out would unleash our spirits dangerously. And then we passed out. What do you think the odds are that we'll wake up in some sort of magic-suppressing sanctified holding chamber?
>>
>>42728441
Don't give the QM ideas, anon.
>>
>>42728441
I'm pretty sure that's if we died.
>>
>>42728470
No, look up thread. We said that if we passed out, too.
>>
>>42728298
> Increase Void Affinity
> Unlock Void Tap
>>
> Increase Spiritual Reserves
> Unlock Void Tap

Void Tap sounds like fun.
>>
>>42728298
> Increase Spiritual Reserves
> Unlock Void Tap
>>
>>42728499
Huh, sure enough.
Guess I better start preparing my anus.
>>
>>42728499
We pretend we didn't really pass out and it was a ruse. Or we bullshit that the spirits energy was so spent from the fight they were too tired to do shit.
>>
>>42728540
Or we just say that our spear was in a good mood from killing that guy.
>>
>>42728617
That too. These townies won't understand our shit. We just about understand our shit.
>>
>>42728298
> Increase Spiritual Reserves
> Unlock Magni Transformation Lv. 2
>>
>>42728298
> Increase Spiritual Reserves
> Unlock Magni Transformation Lv. 2
>>
File: 1371851197003.png (632 KB, 900x900)
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The water glows around you as chains of silver wind their way outward in spirals from the glowing circles inscribed into your palms. They wrap themselves into a link around your bicep, searing themselves into your flesh. You feel the pool of your spiritual energy stretch to fill the newly burned pathways.

Filaments of copper and brass sprout from your navel, tracing an intricate pattern of right angles and empty circles into your stomach. Though they rapidly sink beneath the skin, you can feel the metal as you flex your core to rise above the water. Your ability to interface with your most volatile ally has increased.

Your time is up.

–-

You open your eyes, sitting up sharply. Your eyes adjust to the candlelight more slowly than you would like. The bed beneath you is comfortable, though you can clearly see the straw poking out from the corners of the sheets. Not your bed, nor any noble accommodations.

An instinctual sense rooted in the Knight's Sigil palm of your hand tells you that you are below ground. The room is warm. A metal pitcher filled with water sits on the floor by your bed.

You appear to be in a dungeon or prison of some sort, but you note with curiosity that the door to your cell is wide open.

Curious.

You can hear voices echoing from down the hall. Three. All familiar.

Too far away to make out, unfortunately.

(cont.)
>>
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Your bag is nowhere to be found, but your bindings are intact. Magni's spear is impaled in the stone floor beside your bed, while Dawning Zephyr is propped haphazardly against Crystfire, both leaning against the far wall.

You feel surprisingly well. Your chest is a mass of wicked purple bruises, and when you sit up too fast you can taste blood on your molars, but your recovery seems to be coming along smoothly.

You pull Ripple from your side, staring at your disheveled reflection. “How long have I been out?”

The surface ripples, and a relived Boand stares back at you. “Osyki!” she says, her eyes alight with happiness. “Oh, thank the heavens.”

You can see a pearlescent handle clutched tightly in her hands.

“As best I can tell, you've been out for a night. No more than nine hours.”

“That's it?” you ask, surprised. “I nearly got cracked in half.”

Perhaps it's a trick of the light, but you can almost see the haft of your spear bend in a mock-bow.

You open your mouth to question Boand further when the sounds of approaching footsteps arrest your attention. You recline on the bed, doing your best to listen intently.

“I have no interest in starting a war,” Rime says. “This man is an ambassador. Do -not- allow the Knights to lock him up.”

“I have no intention of doing so,” Jun replies. “Blaise is bordering on treason himself, acting without orders. Let's you and I make sure he knows it before we march the boy out to face the circus. Lance Corporal, kindly watch the door while the Captain and I finish making arrangements.”

Pruisa rounds the corner suddenly, incredibly quiet despite her armor. She catches your eye and nods sharply.

“I hope you're ready to stand, Totemist. The court is nearly ready to receive you.”
>>
>>42729111
inb4 they beg us to calm our spear
>>
File: Osyki.jpg (119 KB, 731x1000)
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[[That's where we'll cut things for the night, folks. Thank you all as always for playing! Drop any questions or suggestions into my Ask box, and as always, have a wonderful week.]]
>>
>>42729152
Thanks for running, as interesting as always
>>
>>42729152
Thanks for running, Diarca. See you next week. I look forward to it.
>>
>>42729152
Who drew that picture anyway?
>>
>>42729152
Thanks for running.
>>
>>42729152
Thanks for running!
>>
>>42729211
Some anon way back when the threads were still in the teens. He's used it as the thread-end image ever since.
>>
>>42729135
>“I have no interest in starting a war,” Rime says. “This man is an ambassador. Do -not- allow the Knights to lock him up.”
So they don't know that our village... doesn't really have shit in terms of defense? Good. Let's keep it that way.
>>
>>42729235
That dude was really good.
>>
>>42729236

I mean it has US. Can you imagine if we came to locked up in a jail cell? It would end badly for the noble quarter.
>>
>>42729236
Its got us. How are they to know there isnt more of us.
>>
>>42729236
It doesn't really have shit against supernatural threats, in a conventional war we have home field advantage, as well as the support of 90% of the sapient spirits in the area. If they invaded us they either have to go through the mountains and the desert, or the swamp and that damn canyon, the mountain and the swamp are aligned with us, and the desert is a resource barren hellhole that is suicidal to bring an army through. The swamps only marginally better.
>>
>>42729236
Rime has been to our village. He knows exactly how it's set up. Either he's lying on our behalf or he's afraid of us.
>>
>>42729152
I forget, what kind of justice system did Grisoch have?

Also we have a theoretically ironclad alibi on not destroying the gardens, since I'm pretty sure there were a lot of people who witnessed us at the party before the first explosion.
>>
>>42729236
Maybe he's assuming our various spirit allies will come to the village's aid, not knowing that they're Osyki's allies specifically?
>>
>>42729152
Enjoyable as always
I'll forever remain curious about voidstuff
>>42729236
They've got Osyki
>>
>>42729289
iirc one of the elders is basically judge jury and executioner for the village.
>>
>>42729299
I think it was said he was fair with it though, the punishments (mostly executions) fit the crime. I could be misremembering.
>>
>>42729282
>he's afraid of us
mate, everyone should be afraid of us, very little could get a hit on us, although anything that can is probably a big threat because we're fairly squishy

On that note, who thinks we should do some research on a spirit which would grant us some tough armour, maybe an armoured reptile or maybe a rock spirit to keep with the Earth theme?
>>
>>42729282
Well quinn is still there. He could probably pull some shit off.
>>
>>42729322
Most tribal and small village communities tend to work out this way. Small squabbles as settled internally. If anything gets really out of hand, the authority steps in and lays down the law.
>>
>>42729345
You mean like the emperor cobra? Or the Rock turtle? Or the big worm?
>>
>>42729345
We left our armour at the house.
>>
>>42729364
We need to bunker down at some point and really experiment with new bindings. Like some god damn FRUIT.
>>
>>42729390
also explore inner world more, trippy adventures are always nice
>>
>>42729390
Fuck that. You really want to plant spirit fruit?
>>
>>42729364
I wouldnt be against getting more spirits (and focuses from them) that could be associated with defence. more shells, hides, carapace pieces etcetera.
>>
>>42729364
nah, something like an anklysaurus or some such. Either that or a mineral spirit. Something super-tough, where we really have to work just to crack its shell. Rock turtle, maybe an elder without the lightning mutation
>>42729378
I want a good spirit to bind to it. Theres a few decent binds for it but nothing anywhere near as ubiquitous as the lightning boots
>>
>>42729406
that...actually seems like a good experiment.
>>
>>42729406
No.

I want to EAT IT.
>>
>>42729446
No it doesnt.
>>42729453
Even worse.
>>
>>42729435
Regular rock turtle sounds good.
>>
>>42729460
No, Diarca said on his ask.fm that it would work. Consumable totems are basically potions, short lived but very powerful one-shot enhancements to our capabilities. It doesn't even destroy the Focus, just unbind it, though that doesn't sound too pleasant to me. Most of our Foci are too pointy for me to want them to revert back to normal in our stomach.
>>
>>42729460
not him, but Diarca's hinted that theyre crazy-powerful short-term boosts, go read the ask. Its worth experimenting with
>>42729479
maybe the great-grandaddy turtle, since i doubt that a random turtle is tough enough for anything impressive
>>
>>42729390
fruit anon i have missed you
>>
>>42729460
It could be, depending on what the fruit does, just avoid experimenting with anything that is obviously deadly and it should be fine. come on, where's your sense of less than ethical scientific adventure?
>>
>>42729510
ayren would be dissapointed in him
>>
>>42729503
They are giant turtles covered in rock. Like house sized.
>>
>>42729524
for what? seeing what shit does? It's an essential part of then job.
>>
>>42729236
They know that our village doesn't have all that much in the way of obvious defenses. The slayers, village walls, and whatnot, wouldn't really be able to stop a concerted effort by a serious invading force.

What I think he's more worried about is getting there. Sending an army through the swamp and forest, with the spirits of those places against them, would end up with hilarious casualty rates, especially if Osyki harried them. It just wouldn't be worth the hills of corpses it'd take, and slowly clearing a path through them would take an age and half, and not really worth the time invested in it.

And he's probably figures that this prison doesn't stand a snowball's chance in hell of holding Osyki if he actually wanted to leave.

It's a good thing for them that he's advocating for not starting a fight, they don't even know about the havoc that Pointsmar could unleash on them if we got the Iron General to work with us.
>>
>>42729644
Thats half the problem, even with Pointsmar gone, thats another route they can't take, that whole desert is even worse for attrition than the swamp is, and then they'd need to climb a mountain. Theres just no good way to get there, hence why the colonization efforts to the area collapsed.
>>
>>42729539
we could go for the house-sized one, or the aircraft-hangar sized one. Ambition.
>>42729550
i meant that Ayren would be dissapointed in us if we didnt engage in "less than ethical scientific adventure", what with the way he raised us to have super-spirit magic by regularly nearly killing us
>>
>>42729152
TELL ME A BEDTIME STORY BOAND
>>
>>42729680
once upon a time, I was regularly sleeping with your master. The End.
>>
>>42729670
The desert is on the other side of the village from them. It wouldn't be practical even if it wasn't a spiritually-drained wasteland. It goes (roughly) sea-desert-mountains-us-forest-swamp-plains-them. They'd have to divert around half the continent to come at us through the desert.
>>
>>42729720
You know, that's probably the real reason Ayren never had Boand help in training us like we have with training Quinn and Tera. He didn't want to have the awkward conversation when Osyki asked Boand what it meant for her to be Master Ayren's "special friend".
>>
>>42729680
Did you know I once had a toad in my pond?
>>
>>42729777
Or he was avoiding Boand flirting with pubescent Osyki.
>>
who gonna win the osykibowl
>>
>>42730806
Who's even competing?
>>
>>42731347
Elana, Boand, maybe Saeri?
Cordia if you're into that.



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