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>>45757513

The first round is spent in silence. Uncorked, the bottle offers a scent of strong alcohol – without any of the depth or delicacy that you'd expect from Howa's choice of drink – and it goes down like a liquid punch. Shuddering, already getting red in the face, Howa refills both cups.

“I spoke with the Mentor,” she says after a moment, “So he knows that we know what... he knows.” A chuckle, only slightly forced, escapes her as she trots out that ridiculous sentence. “He said we need to be better, better than our ancestors and that way we'll get the gods we deserve. Blood sacrifice, human sacrifice... that's all in the past now, isn't it?”

A image flashes through your memory – the nameless Wanderer, their face slashed, laid out on Titanos' alter – as you take a deep drink to cover your wince. You'll tell the Mentor in the morning, and see what he has to say about things.

“So a little bird tells me that they've found something out in the hills,” Howa changes the subject quickly, a twinkle coming into her eye at the thought of untapped mysteries, “The Mentor wants us to wait – he had a lot of birds sent out though, so he's up to something. Sent one to the capital as well, addressed to the Emperor. Looks like we're going to be building some bridges.”

It makes sense, in a way – extending the hand of friendship and all that – but you see it in a more cynical light. There's no way of keeping the Emperor out of this business, but this way you might be able to limit the knowledge that leaks out. Burying the truth doesn't sit quite right with you, but...

“Thinking deep thoughts?” Howa raises an eyebrow, “What do you think about this?”

>I'm sure the Mentor has his reasons
>The old man is making a big mistake
>It's the right choice, we need to cooperate on this
>Other

>>45757521
>Good, it'll only make it easier to investigate what the Emperor knows about the recent....happenings.
>Titanos, he didn't WANT sacrifice, not the rage that overcame him.
good night Moloch.

>>45757521
>>I'm sure the Mentor has his reasons
Someone is making a concerted effort to destroy the nameless temple. First the Melancholia incident, then a wanderer being attacked and sacrificed to turn Titanos into a monster. Not too mention the missing apprentices. We can't afford to alienate the Emperor, but I can't help but feel either he, or someone claiming to follow his word has a hand in this. It worries me.

>>45757521
>>I'm sure the Mentor has his reasons

You're sure the Mentor has his own reasons for wanting the Emperor involved, you tell Howa cautiously, and they're probably good reasons. You, on the other hand, have something of a different perspective on things. It's good, in a way – it'll make it a lot easier to work out what the Emperor already knows about the current situation. That's something you would otherwise have to guess at.

That aside, you continue, it won't do any good to alienate the Emperor. Not while someone – or, worse, some organisation – is making a concentrated effort to destroy the Nameless Temple. With everything that's been happening, the missing apprentices included, you might end up needing the Emperor's cooperation before too long. Although you can't rule out the possibility that someone following his orders – or someone claiming to follow his orders – is at the bottom of this, you can't afford to cut off all ties without a damn good reason.

It worries you. This whole damn situation worries you.

“Yeah,” Howa sighs, “I feel like things are getting out of control. There's only so much we can do, and if the gods just... go back to their old ways...”

Titanos didn't just go back to his old ways, you tell Howa, he was forced down a darker path by a sacrifice he never wanted. All his rage stemmed from that one crime, not any kind of divine judgement. It was the work of a man – and that's something you CAN do something about.

You'll just need to find the man who did it.

“Right, you're right,” finishing her drink, Howa wavers a little as she stands, “Go and see the old man in the morning, won't you? I should go and get some rest...”

>Stay. Have another drink
>I'll be sure to see him tomorrow, then
>Other

>>45757756
>Stay. Have another drink
Put our feet up just for a little after all those back to back jobs. And taking a wound.

>>45757756
>Stay. Have another drink

>>45757756
>>Stay. Have another drink
It might be nice to spend some more time together.

>>45757756
>>Stay. Have another drink

Picking up the bottle, you shake it a little and listen to the contents sloshing around. Still plenty left, you tell Howa, why not stay and have another drink? It's been non-stop lately, and you both deserve to put your feet up a little.

“You've been working non-stop,” Howa protests with a faint smile, “I've just been, you know, reading old books like I usually do.”

But, you point out as you fill her cup, she's been reading them non-stop. That's the important thing.

“Fine, fine,” sitting, Howa takes the fresh cup and sips, a frown creasing her brow as she tastes the rough alcohol, “But I'm going to hold you responsible in the morning. You know that, right?”

So what else is new? Taking a deep drink, you rub your wounded side and grimace a little at the stab of pain that shoots through it. It healed quickly, much of the wound burned closed as soon as it had been inflicted, but the scar it left behind it thick and leathery. Just one more marking to stand as testimony to the adventurous life you've led. A few more wounds like that one, you say aloud, and you'll have to start thinking about retirement.

“Poor Ira!” Howa gasps, widening her eyes in mock horror, “You'll have to settle down like the rest of us. Ah, but how will an adventurous soul like yourself resist the lure of the open road?” Covering up a smile – both regret and amusement show through in that expression – Howa leans forwards, bracing her chin on her folded hands, “I don't think you'd ever retire, Ira. Trouble follows you around.”

You've noticed that, you remark bitterly. In fact, you're starting to think that going on holiday is just another way of taking a writ. It always seems to end badly.

“So why do you keep doing it?” Howa asks, a twinkle in her eye, “Maybe you enjoy getting into trouble, hmm?”

She's got you there.

[1/2]

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>>45757985

Morning finds you stiff and pained after a night spent sleeping restlessly in your chair. After finishing off the bottle of spirits over more casual conversation – complaining about apprentices, the food served at the Nameless Temple, anything that crosses your minds – Howa ended up crawling into your bed and passing out. Ever the gentleman, you resisted the urge to throw her out of it. She's still snoring softly when you leave at first light, nursing an aching head and stiffened shoulders.

Fresh air would be nice, but you've got to see the Mentor. He can wait a little, you decide, and you'd be no use to him in this state. Venturing out into the cool morning air, you trek out to the closest river and bathe in the cold, clear water until you feel more human. Shivering with a new chill but nevertheless awake and alert, you finally make your way to the Mentor's chambers. As you're waiting for your turn to see the old man, another person strolls out from the Mentor's room. Not someone you recognise, or one you've seen around the Nameless Temple before. He nods to you as he's leaving, and then your name is called.

“Ra Caltiff,” the Mentor says, by way of introduction, “That man who just left. He's the Emperor's head advisor, if you can believe it. But never mind him now – what can I do for you, Ira?”

>I've settled Titanos down
>We have a problem. Titanos was enraged by a human sacrifice – one of our own
>Why were you speaking with the Emperor's advisor?
>Other

>>45758089
>>I've settled Titanos down
But
>>We have a problem. Titanos was enraged by a human sacrifice – one of our own

>>45758089
>>We have a problem. Titanos was enraged by a human sacrifice – one of our own
>>Why were you speaking with the Emperor's advisor?

You put any thought of the Emperor's man aside for now and get right down to business. You've settled Titanos down, you tell the Mentor, but there's a problem. It wasn't some lack of faith or minor whim that caused the storms – Titanos had been enraged, dragged back to a more primal level, by an act of human sacrifice. It was one of your own, the first Wanderer sent to investigate things.

Which, you admit, doesn't explain quite what kicked off the whole incident. There are unanswered questions, and they bother you. If you can't work out just what started things in the first place, you run the risk of it all starting up once again.

“I know,” the Mentor nods sadly, “Garl Yamada sent me a letter with many of his speculations. He suggested that the hillfolk may have answers – or a hand in these events. They know him, well enough to trade at least, and so I've left that line of investigation in his capable hands. Time will tell what answers he can pry out of them. It's always sad to lose one of our own, especially under such terrible circumstances, but at least the matter has been resolved.”

Then you can move onto your next question. Why, you ask, was the Mentor speaking with the Emperor's man? You've heard that they might be forming a joint excavation of the ruins, but some instinct tells you that there was more to their discussion than just that.

“Ra Caltiff is a man I respect highly,” the Mentor begins, “Yes, we spoke of a joint venture into these newly covered ruins. We would need the Emperor's backing for such a thing, after all. Yet, that wasn't all we spoke of. There were certain... other matters. I would speak of those later, once you've been compensated for your efforts. Tell me, what magic would you inscribe upon your soul?”

>Fire, the ways of attack
>Earth, the ways of defence
>Air, the ways of magic itself
>Water, the ways of society
>You'd rather have your wounds healed

>>45758344
>>You'd rather have your wounds healed
Or
>Fire, the ways of attack

>>45758344
>>You'd rather have your wounds healed
A new spell would be good but I'd rather be at full strength at all times.

You'd rather have your wounds healed, you tell the Mentor, so that you'll be at full strength for your next mission. You've had healing like this before, on a rare few occasions, and you know that it is far from pleasant. Drawing certain power from your own body, the Mentor can force the clay of your body back into perfect working order. You're not exactly sure how it works, but you've seen it in action enough to know that it's no natural process. It's quite a strain as well, so much so that it takes you some time to recover fully.

“I understand,” the Mentor nods, “I see the problem. Your side, is it not?”

Nodding, you lift your tunic and prepare yourself for what is coming. The Mentor presses his hands to your bare flesh – you're always struck by some nameless sensation when his skin touches yours – and focusses for a moment. It's not exactly like a bolt of lightning, but that's the closest comparison you can make. Jolting, grunting in pain, you recoil from his touch. Slowly, the blackened skin grows softer and more flexible, almost younger feeling. Letting your tunic fall, you nod your thanks to the Mentor.

>Maximum health restored to 100.

“Now,” he says as he brushes his hands together, “We have business to discuss, you and I. I wish to send you to the Dragon's Head. In a few days time, they will be having the lantern festival, and I want you to attend.”

The lantern festival. Not exactly a formal religious ceremony, but more of a casual celebration, a general time devoted to the gods and their worship. Is he sending you, then, to lead the celebrations? Traditionally, it's a job that goes to a priest or a Wanderer.

[1/2]

>>45758625

“This year, things will be different,” the Mentor informs you, “They seek to celebrate youth, the next generation. As such, they asked for an apprentice to give a short speech instead. I offered Koa Temnos the job, and he was eager to accept. In such dangerous times, however, I did not wish to send him without an escort. He asked for you by name.”

You're not surprised. So, you ask, this is an escort? He wants you to bring Koa to the Dragon's Head and make sure nothing bad happens to the boy. You don't blame the old man for his caution, especially given recent events, but you feel like he's not telling you something.

“I want you there for other reasons, yes,” the Mentor nods slowly, “I wish for you to be on the lookout for anything that might be suspicious. Anything that might be a clue to these ongoing mysteries. In addition, there is a final matter that I wish for you to investigate. A young priestess of Selene, by the name of Miura. Meet with her, if possible, and try to get a measure of her. She may, in time, be important to us. To all of Tenngaru, in fact. Needless to say, you are also to protect her from any threats, should any arise.”

So now you've got two kids to protect. This job sounds like it could be a pain.

“I know, Ira,” the Mentor sighs, “But this is important. I'm trusting you, you above all others, with this.”

Frowning, you put the matter aside for a moment. What, you ask, about the Emperor's advisor? Does he have something to do with this?

“Ra believes that there may be a... threat at the festival,” the Mentor says slowly, “He brought warning of it, wishing for us to work together and reduce the risk as best we can. Are you willing to do that?”

>Then I'll do it
>Why is this girl so important?
>Has there been a specific threat?
>Other

>>45758809
>Then I'll do it
>>Why is this girl so important?

>>45758809
>Then I'll do it
>Why is this girl so important?

>>45758809
>>Why is this girl so important?
>>Has there been a specific threat?

You'll do it, you decide quickly, but you want to know why this girl is so important. Selene, the mistress of the moon, is quite an influential god in Tenngaru's overall faith, but that's not enough to explain why a single girl would be quite so vital.

“We believe... she would make an excellent bride for the young Emperor,” the Mentor says, a certain distaste creeping into his voice at the prospect, “They are considered to have compatible personalities, and a harmonious marriage between them would do much to stabilise the current situation. I dislike arranged marriages such as this – I will be open and honest about that fact – but I see the value in the idea. Ra was the one to bring it up, in fact, and he knows the young Emperor better than anyone else.”

So, he's asking you to study this girl for... what, so they know whether she can be talked into marrying the Emperor?

“We merely wish to get an outside opinion of her,” a faint note of weariness enters the Mentor's voice, a hint at his reluctance to engage in such tactics, “You have good instincts, Ira, and I trust them as much as I trust my own. Speak with her, keep her safe if you must... but, if your instincts warn you away, do not get too deeply involved with her. This is political – a dirty matter.”

That makes sense. Nodding slowly as you file the advice away, you ask about the risks. Has there been a specific threat, at all?

[1/2]

>>45759188

“The mood at the Dragon's Head is tense,” the Mentor says delicately, “Feelings are running high there, about the Emperor's railroad in particular. There is the rumour that the railroad would cross the Dragon River, possibly running through the town itself, and that is enough to have some of the more... extreme worshippers protesting. With the lantern festival bringing in a lot of new blood, the Emperor sees the situation as volatile. It could turn into a rally, perhaps even the first flourishes of a rebellion.”

Is the situation really that bad?

“The Emperor seems to think so,” the Mentor shrugs slightly, his robes whispering with the motion, “Perhaps he is not the best judge of things – rumour has it that he sees threats everywhere these days – but he has sent a detachment of his own troops to secure the town just in case. If possible, I wish to avoid any violence. The Emperor must not crack down on the faithful, but any attempts at an uprising would be just as dangerous.”

Serious news indeed, you muse, no wonder that the Emperor's advisor came to discuss things personally.

“I'm glad you understand the situation we're in,” the Mentor says, “Do you still want to take this task on?”

>Absolutely. I'll leave with Koa at once
>I've got a few questions for you first... (Write in)
>This is too much for me, I'm afraid
>Other

>>45759188
>“We merely wish to get an outside opinion of her,”
And you are asking ME this?
Really? I mean, fuck.. Really?

>>45759207
>>Absolutely. I'll leave with Koa at once

>>45759232
? That seems like something totally doable.

>>45759207
>Absolutely. I'll leave with Koa at once

>>45759232
Are you implying that Ira is incapable of talking to someone, forming an opinion, and then sharing that opinion to his boss?

Cause he can. As can most human beings.

>>45759207
This is going to end with Koa romancing the girl, isn't it?

>>45759358
Good odds. Or she likes him, won't marry the Emperor because, and causes even more shit/instability.

Absolutely, you confirm, you're definitely up for this. You'll leave with Koa at once. Or... not at once, you've just got one last question. He wants you, because you can offer him an outside opinion on this Miura girl. Does he really think you're the right man for that job?

“I want to know if she can be trusted, if she's vulnerable to manipulation, or if she presents any other risk of instability,” the Mentor smiles thinly, his withered lips twitching up at the sides, “I'm not asking you to find out what the current generation – “the kids”, as you'd say – really thinks. Some mysteries cannot be solved.” The Mentor's smile deepens for a moment, to tell you that he was joking, and then he speaks again. “Oh, but you might ask Koa about her. They are, I believe, roughly the same age. Two opinions are better than one, after all.”

Right. Then, you say after bowing shortly, you'll get Koa and hit the road. The sooner you arrive at the Dragon's Head, the sooner you can get an idea of what to expect. As you're leaving the Mentor's chambers, you bump right into Koa. He was, apparently, summoned here to meet you. How, you wonder absently, does the Mentor manage to arrange these things?

“Ah, hello!” Koa says, his voice bright and eager, “It's been a while, hasn't it? I suppose you've heard – I'm going to be giving a little speech at the lantern festival. That name makes me feel kind of... nervous, but I couldn't say why. So, are you going to be coming with me?”

You're coming, you confirm. Time to hit the road.

[1/2]

>>45759617

A day's ride takes you to the Dragon's Head, a rather beautiful town at the northern side of the central mountains. The town itself is split in two by the Dragon River itself, the clear waters running beneath a series of bridges. Everything here is strung with devotional banners, flags and banners dyed a vivid blue. This whole town is devoted to Lapis, the azure dragon, and it's hard to forget that.

As you're negotiating with one of the stable workers – space is at a premium, with the coming festivities – you spot a familiar figure approaching. Tawn Moriya, looking as fresh faced as ever. He spots you as well, changing course to meet you.

“Ira,” he begins, “I'm glad to see you're here. The Emperor sent me to keep an eye on things – along with what seems like a small army of soldiers – but I'm glad to have someone else I can trust. I can't talk right now, but there's a guardhouse at the southern side of the town. Meet me there, if you want to discuss the security arrangements.”

With that, and before you can do any more than exchange greetings, he is away. He must be busy, you remind yourself, and small talk hardly takes priority. You've got some time before nightfall, so you've got the chance to take care of some business. As a visiting priestess, Miura could probably be found at the shrine, making her formal introductions to the locals. Or, you suppose, you could kill some time with Koa – the boy looks very nervous.

>Visit Tawn to discuss security
>Seek out Miura
>Speak with Koa
>Other

>>45759785
>>Speak with Koa
Whats up Koa?

>>45759785
Can we walk and talk with Koa on the way to Tawn's guardhouse?

>>45759785
>Speak with Koa
See if we can calm his nerves. The other two ain't going anywhere for a while.

>>45759856

>Yes, that's entirely possible.

>>45759785
>>Visit Tawn to discuss security
while we
>>Speak with Koa

Alright, you announce as you slap Koa on the shoulder, spit it out. There's something bothering him, isn't there?

“Well, I wouldn't say it was bothering me exactly...” Koa begins as you start walking at a slow pace, leisurely strolling down one of the waterways. There are some lingering puddles – apparently, Titanos' storms had an effect here as well – but the walk is mostly a scenic one. This isn't the first time you've visited the Dragon's Head, but it always impresses you. “I should start from the beginning,” Koa says, “You see, when the Mentor offered me this job I took it right away. Only, I've never actually given a speech, so...”

So, you ask, he's not sure what to say?

“Right,” Koa nods, grateful that he doesn't need to admit it directly, “Actually, I'm not even sure what I'm supposed to say. This is all about youth, about the next generation, right? Should I just talk about... being an apprentice?”

You're not sure that you're the best person to be giving advice, but you keep those doubts to yourself. Pausing, you look up at one of the houses – it's been plastered with crudely printed notes. At best, they complain about the planned railroad. At worst, they call for open defiance towards the Emperor. Dangerous words, these days. As you're reading them, a sullen looking soldier marches along, tears down the various notes and marches off, glaring at you as he passes.

Things here are tense, you tell Koa honestly, and he should keep that in mind. His words could make a big difference.

“That doesn't, uh, help much,” the boy says with a frown, “So what would you say?”

>The faithful need to step back. Fighting the Emperor is a mistake
>The Emperor has gone too far. People need to make that known
>I'd urge peace, even if it means making compromises
>Just stay out of politics altogether. It's not worth it
>Other

>>45760135
>I'd urge peace, even if it means making compromises
Compromises from both sides.

>>45760135
>>Just stay out of politics altogether. It's not worth it
But if you feel the need to get involved
>I'd urge peace, even if it means making compromises

>>45760135
>I'd urge peace, even if it means making compromises

>>45760135
>>I'd urge peace, even if it means making compromises

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If you were the one giving the speech? You'd urge peace, you decide after a moment, even if that means both sides have to make compromises. The Emperor needs to back off a little, especially with this talk of railroads, but open resistance isn't the way to go about it. That's only going to make the situation worse. Of course, you add a moment later, you suggest he tries to avoid politics completely. Getting drawn into a debate like this just isn't worth it.

“Actually,” Koa disagrees slowly, “I think I should be involved. I'm sending a message to the next generation, right? I don't want that to be an apathetic one. People like me, we need to get involved with politics, and... and stuff like that.”

Huh, you grunt, he's got a mind of his own after all. You're only here to act as a bodyguard, you remind him, so the speech is his business. If he's so eager to get involved with politics, all you can suggest is that he remains neutral.

“Alright,” Koa nods slowly, “I see your point. That's what the Mentor says, isn't it? We should cooperate and avoid conflict. I know he's probably right, but sometimes... sometimes it feels like we're very powerless. All we do is urge people to stay calm and work together, but what happens?” Falling silent here, Koa stoops to pick up a discarded flier, one that cries out for armed resistance. “People see stuff like this,” he says as he crumbles the paper up, “And they get angry. Folks like that aren't going to listen to reason.”

There's something very mature about the cynicism that creeps into Koa's voice as he says this, something you dislike immensely. You always thought the boy's idealism annoyed you, but the loss of it is even worse.

“Oh, sorry sir,” Koa laughs awkwardly, “I didn't mean to get so... bleak. I'll give everyone a good, upbeat speech, I promise!”

[1/2]

>>45760590

That's probably for the best, you decide, what the people need right now isn't another voice trying to raise hell. What they need is the chance to take their mind off things and have a little fun – that's the whole point of festivals like this. They should give people a chance to spend a little time on what's important to them – true enough, that might be the gods for some of them, but for others it might be family. Whatever their reasons, events like this should bring people together.

“So, uh, what do people do at a lantern festival?” Koa asks, “We never had anything like that were I was from.”

People make lanterns out of sticks and rice paper, you explain, and paint words onto the paper. Prayers, sometimes, or messages they want to send to departed relatives. Sometimes, they write their hopes for the future or confess their sins. It doesn't really matter what they write, you add, because they send the lit lanterns downstream at the end of the evening. Sending messages to the gods, it's sometimes called. People don't take it too seriously, but it's still a nice event. As you describe it to Koa, you surprise yourself at how nostalgic you feel – it's been a while since you took part in anything like this, and you're actually looking forwards to it.

Business first, you remind yourself sternly as you reach the guardhouse, time to check in with Tawn. You find the man sitting at a desk covered in scrolls, scraps of parchment and a few of the crumpled fliers you saw earlier. He doesn't look very happy about the latter – but that's not surprising, considering the open treason written on them,

“Ira,” he says wearily, “What can I do for you?”

>I'm surprised to see you here, Tawn
>How seriously are you taking these fliers?
>Has anyone made a threat against the priests or priestesses?
>Other

>>45760705
>How seriously are you taking these fliers?
>Has anyone made a threat against the priests or priestesses?

>>45760705
>>How seriously are you taking these fliers?
>>Has anyone made a threat against the priests or priestesses?

>>45760705
>>I'm surprised to see you here, Tawn
I assume that means we're surprised to see him doing this job since we've already met him in town.
>>How seriously are you taking these fliers?
>>Has anyone made a threat against the priests or priestesses?

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You've got to admit, you begin, you're a little surprised to see Tawn taking on this kind of work. You thought he was handling divine matters for the Emperor, not crowd control.

“I argued long and hard to get this position,” Tawn says with a kind of stubborn pride, “The Emperor wanted to ban this event altogether - “a nest of treason and troublemakers”, I believe he called it – but I was able to change his mind. It would just stir people up even more, if he tried to prevent this happening, you see. As a “reward” for my negotiations, I was given the job of making sure nothing goes wrong. Apparently, my “former experience” gives me an edge here – the Emperor thinks the people might trust me a little more than your average soldier.”

Maybe they're right, you argue, he had the good sense to speak up for them at least. Still, you say as you tap one of the fliers, how seriously is he taking these?

“These? These are just trash,” Tawn says dismissively, “I've only had one major problem so far, and it's not been anything close to a rebellion. A group of drunks picking a fight with some soldiers, and that's been the worst of it. Obviously, I'm taking any threat seriously, but I don't think any kind of attack would be announced in advance. As long as people are making noise with these things, I know they're not plotting something even worse.”

Unless some party plans on using protests as a cover for something more sinister, you suggest, like acting against some of the priests. Have there been any threats, you ask then, against the priests or priestesses?

[1/2]

>>45761061

“None,” Tawn shakes his head gratefully, “I'm glad to say that the priests have been urging caution so far. There's always the risk, of course, that their more extreme followers see that as capitulation – or, worse, heresy – but we've not had any reason to worry about that just yet. At the moment, I believe...” Pausing here, he unwinds a scroll and frowns at it, counting off the time of day, “Right now, all the local religious leaders should be in the main shrine. I couldn't say what they're doing though – none of my business, apparently.”

It's only polite, you tell him, for visiting priests to show their appreciation to the local faiths. It's supposed to avoid trouble, but often it's just as treacherous as any other kind of politics. Lots of snide words and sly speeches – he's better off uninvolved.

“True,” Tawn sighs, pushing away the scroll and scowling at a wall for a moment, “Oh, there is one thing. I've seen a lot of people wearing masks about town, all of them sculpted to look like dragon heads. I'm told it's a devotional thing, but I don't like it – why are these people hiding their faces, unless they're up to no good? I'd keep an eye out for them, if I were you.”

It IS a devotional thing – the faithful wear the image of Lapis, the azure dragon, during the festival. Masks are one way of doing it, but other people paint their faces or just wear a lot of blue. A harmless tradition, but you can see Tawn's point. Amidst a sea of masked worshippers, a suspect could vanish forever.

“That's about all I can tell you about the security situation,” Tawn says, “Where are you going now?”

>We're going to see the priests
>I had a few questions for you before we do anything (Write in)
>We'll be killing time until nightfall
>Other

>>45761145
>We're going to see the priests

>>45761145
>>We're going to see the priests

>>45761145
>>We're going to see the priests
>>I had a few questions for you before we do anything (Write in)
I think we should warn him about someone wearing a steel ring. They've been trying to stir things up lately.

You'll be visiting the priests, you tell Tawn, it's about time you paid your own respects after all. As you're turning to leave, though, a thought strikes you. More than once, you've heard about a man with a steel ring causing trouble and getting involved in delicate situations like this. Something for Tawn to keep an eye out for, perhaps.

“A steel ring?” Tawn raises an eyebrow, “That's not much to look for. Are you suggesting I examine the fingers of everyone who passes me in the streets?”

Just a warning, you shrug, it's up to him to decide what to do with it. With that, you head outside and join Koa again. The boy had been so busy leaning against the wall and muttering to himself – practising speeches, you don't doubt – that he didn't notice you until you tapped him on the shoulder. At least the startled cry that escaped him wasn't too shrill, but it still brought a flush of embarrassment to his cheeks. Keeping up a sullen silence, he follows you as you wind your way through the streets on the way to the temple. It's easy to find – you just need to follow the river.

“So this god...” he finally speaks up as you're approaching the edge of town.

Lapis, you explain, the azure dragon. The god of the Dragon River, and something like a good luck charm for the whole of Tenngaru. When Lapis is happy, the stories go, everything is fine. When he is unhappy though, Tenngaru is said to suffer. He doesn't send storms like Titanos or famines like the countless fertility gods throughout the land, but just things just... don't go very well. Hard to prove anything, in other words.

“I bet,” Koa grumbles, “I suppose he must not be pretty happy at the moment, considering.”

In that case, you tell him, things can only get better.

[1/2]

>>45761472

The temple itself - “shrine” is too humble a word for this place – is carved into the side of the central mountains themselves. Water pours through the entire building, fed from the hidden depths of the mountain itself, and rushes out past the entrance. All throughout the building, the sound of splashing water seems to follow your footsteps. A lot of people don't like water temples, you mutter to Koa, but you've never worked out why. Maybe the noise gets to them.

Arriving at the central chamber – the room dominated by a grand statue of a dragon, the beast rearing up proudly – you spot a gathering of priests. The oldest one is the priest of Lapis – he couldn't have come from a distant shrine – while the youngest is obviousy Miura, the girl you came here to find. The others are just servants, attendants and priests of other, lesser local gods. Lingering by the doorway, you observe them for a moment. Miura seems to speak the least out of all of them, even allowing the representatives of lesser gods to speak over her. Respecting them for their age, perhaps, or just lacking in confidence?

“So...” Koa whispers, “Should we introduce ourselves?”

>Introduce yourself and mingle with the group
>Observe the group from a distance
>Try to talk to Miura on her own
>Other

>>45761554
>Introduce yourself and mingle with the group

>>45761554
>>Observe the group from a distance
maybe they are doing some thing important

>>45761554
>>Introduce yourself and mingle with the group

>>45761554
>>Observe the group from a distance
Then if they're not involved in anything private or important
>Introduce yourself and mingle with the group

>>45761554
>Observe the group from a distance
Just to make sure we don't interrupt. That's not a good first impression.

You can learn a lot, you murmur to Koa, by watching and waiting. Once you've got a good read on the situation, an idea of what to expect, you can introduce yourself and mingle with them. For now, though, it's best to study the dynamic.

Once, you would have just blundered in and made yourself the centre of attention. The folly of youth.

So, with Koa following your lead, you take a moment to see how things unfold. Occasional flurries of sporadic laughter tell you that it's not an important meeting – more like a gathering of old friends or colleagues – and the hierarchy in the room soon grows clear. The local priest, obviously, is given the most respect and deference. Below him are the other priests, with no clear distinction between their statuses. Miura is the lowest of the actual priests there, but the servants are all careful to treat her with the same respect they offer to the locals. Suggesting... she doesn't hold herself above the hired help, perhaps?

Enough. Time to make your introductions. Koa follows close behind you as you approach – not the group, but the statue of Lapis. With slow, unhurried movements you light a wooden taper on one of the many candles placed at the base of the temple and touch the flame to one of the unlit candles. Bowing your head for a moment, you finally turn and introduce yourself to the group. Ira Furyo, you say quietly, and Koa Tenmos. Representing, you add, the Nameless Temple.

“A Wanderer, is it?” the local priest says, as if addressing something clinging to his boot, “Well, I suppose. You are welcome here, outsider, but we don't want any trouble. I am Holm, devotee of Lord Lapis.”

And an arrogant ass, you think to yourself as you bow your head to him, with an inflated sense of his own importance.

[1/2]

>>45761983

The rest of the introductions go smoothly enough, and you soon learn – through subtle comments and gestures – that your low opinion of Holm is shared by most of the minor priests. Only Miura, it seems, holds any genuine respect for the blustering leader.

Naive. That's a dangerous trait to have anywhere, let alone the Imperial court. She'd be eaten alive.

Koa is wise enough to stay silent unless directly spoken to, but you soon realise that it has very little to do with wisdom. No, his eyes are simply locked on Miura, his thoughts no doubt filled with her image as well. That's... not a good thing to encourage. Clearing your throat, you ask Koa about the speech he's planning to give. It's the first thing that crosses your mind, and it seems to drag him back to reality.

“Oh, well,” Koa twitches slightly, “I was planning on speaking about the virtues of cooperation. In such troubled times, people from all faiths need to come together.” A murmur of approval rises up in response to that. Encouraged, Koa presses on. “And I include people without faith in that, of course. We ALL have a responsibility to work together.” That little comment, on the other hand, kills the wave of approval dead. It's Holm that does it, glaring at Koa and causing the gaggle of lesser priests to follow his lead. Miura, unable to read the situation, merely stares at the floor.

Now, you realise, would be the perfect time to get her alone for a few moments. You'd need to speak with her alone to get a real idea of what she's like, after all. Of course, that would leave Koa in a tight spot...

>Confront Holm directly
>Support Koa quietly
>Move Miura away from the group to speak privately
>Other

>>45762069
>>Confront Holm directly

>>45762069
>Confront Holm directly

>>45762069
>>Support Koa quietly
Those without faith affect the gods as much as the gods affect them. I've seen it too often in my work.
>>Move Miura away from the group to speak privately

>>45762118
>>45762177
Why? All it will do is get us ostracized. We have no support right now.

>>45762180
supporting this.

>>45762180
>>45762069
+1

>>45762180
This

Moloch's internet issues must have caught up with him.

>I'm back again. Going with supporting Koa quietly. I apologise for the delay!

So, you ask calmly, the priest of Lapis would seek conflict rather than cooperation?

“That's not what I said,” Holm growls, his gaze flickering across to you, “This is a proud priesthood, one with an unbroken history stretching back for countless generations – not something I'd expect a rootless dog like yourself to understand.”

Those without faith – the Emperor's men, included among them – affect the gods just as much as those with faith, you tell the blustering man with the same calm tone, you've seen it often in your line of work. True, you've not spent your entire life preaching to the same choir, but you've got experience. Koa shares some of that, both in the lessons he's learned and the things he's seen. His words have a certain weight to them. In either case, you add as an afterthought, isn't this festival supposed to be devoted to the young and not the old?

Silence. A few of the lesser priests dare to nod slightly, carefully expressing their approval in the safest way they can. Koa looks relieved, his resolve bolstered by your carefully chosen words. Holm, on the other hand, is expressionless – very deliberately so. He doesn't trust himself to speak, you realise, without making a scene.

“I think,” the voice that finally sounds is hushed, but clear as a bell, “I think we should all get some fresh air. Sir Holm, I believe the rushing waters would aid your meditations.”

Miura. So maybe this girl has some steel in her after all. As her words hang in the air, the lesser priests slowly file out. Holm is the last, holding himself upright with a wounded dignity.

“And you, Wanderer,” she pauses, examining you with dark, intelligent eyes, “I think we should speak, we are both outsiders here after all.”

[1/2]

>>45762069
>Koa is wise enough to stay silent unless directly spoken to, but you soon realise that it has very little to do with wisdom. No, his eyes are simply locked on Miura, his thoughts no doubt filled with her image as well. That's... not a good thing to encourage.

Called it.

>>45761554
>A lot of people don't like water temples, you mutter to Koa, but you've never worked out why. Maybe the noise gets to them.
took me a second.

>>45762069
>No, his eyes are simply locked on Miura, his thoughts no doubt filled with her image as well. That's... not a good thing to encourage.
well that didn't take long.

File: Miura.jpg (155 KB, 670x1282)

155 KB JPG

>>45763274

When the room has emptied of all but you, Koa and Miura herself, the girl lets out a low sigh. “This is better,” she murmurs, “I don't like crowds. In my temple, we focus on lone meditations and contemplation. There is none of this... debate.”

That's a gentle way of putting it. Truth be told, things in the Nameless Temple can get quite heated – in the spirit of encouraging debate, or so the Mentor says – so you've got a little experience in these kind of exchanges.

“Tell me,” Miura says quietly, “Are you here for the festivities, like all the others? No, I think you have a higher purpose here. But... hmm.” Tapping a slender finger against her chin, she regards you both with piercing eyes. “You're here to protect your apprentice, of course. That much is obvious.”

Oh, you ask with a raised eyebrow, it's that obvious?

“This is a festival for the young,” a faint smile crosses Miura's calm features, “And you're not exactly, well...”

She's tactful enough not to finish that sentence, although it's enough for Koa to cover up a quick laugh. Alright, you sigh, you walked into that one. You're here as a bodyguard and, perhaps, to offer a little wisdom – the kind of wisdom you get with age, you tell Miura with a note of false irritation in your voice. That's what old guys like you are good for, right?

“I'm glad to have a man of your age and experience around, Sir Ira,” the young priestess says with a smile, “But... is that the only reason you're here?”

>I'm keeping an eye out for any kind of trouble
>I was sent to speak with you. To form an opinion, I was told
>I'm just taking a little time off. It's been rough lately
>Other

>>45763496
>I'm keeping an eye out for any kind of trouble

>>45763496
>>I'm keeping an eye out for any kind of trouble

>>45763496
>I'm keeping an eye out for any kind of trouble

>>45763496
>>I'm keeping an eye out for any kind of trouble
>This is a festival for the young, and I was sent to be on a lookout for.....promising youths. The ones who will make waves.

>>45763496
>>I'm just taking a little time off. It's been rough lately
>I'm keeping an eye out for any kind of trouble
Sup Loch

>>45763496
>I'm keeping an eye out for any kind of trouble

You're here keeping an eye out for any kind of trouble, you say coolly, that's kind of your speciality. You leave the fancy speeches to the boy here, you add as you nudge Koa forwards.

“Hello,” Koa says, a touch awkwardly, “I'm, uh, Koa Temnos. An apprentice, you know, at the Nameless Temple. I've been asked to make a speech, so... Oh, I probably mentioned that, didn't I? Or... you guessed it. You seem pretty good at guessing.”

This boy is an idiot. A tactless idiot. Before he can make a fool out of himself, you step in. Of course, you tell Miura, you're also here to take some time off. It's been rough lately, and some festivities are just the sort of thing you need to take some of the weight off your feet. Then, a thought strikes you – just how well can this Miura girl keep a secret?

You've got another reason to be here, you tell her quietly, you're on the lookout for promising youths. The kind that makes waves, the kind that will steer the course of the future – exactly the kind of person that this festival is here to celebrate. But, you add in a furtive whisper, she shouldn't make that public knowledge. You're trying to keep that quiet for the time being.

“Such an important job!” the corner of Miura's mouth twitches in a slight smile, “Your secret is safe with me, then. But now, we should be getting back to business. I have preparations to make – a speech of my own, Sir Koa – and I'm sure you do too. Sir Ira...” she waves a hand towards a covered pile, “We have plenty of materials here, rice paper and wood. Make a lantern for your own wishes, why don't you?”

As parting words go, they're more graceful than what you're used to. Having said her piece – your opinion of the girl has changed remarkably – Miura glides away to some secluded side room.

“Sir Koa...” the apprentice murmurs.

>Don't get any ideas. Please
>So what do you think of her?
>Focus on the speech, boy
>Other

>>45763594

>Hello!

>>45763813
>So what do you think of her?
I can hazard a guess though.

>>45763813
>>So what do you think of her?
Poor, poor Koa.

>>45763813
>Don't get any ideas. Please
"Do you really want to make an enemy of the emperor and his court? There will always be others, you know."

>>45763813
>So what do you think of her?
then once he's had his spill
>Don't get any ideas. Please
Going with first crushes are rarely a good idea.

>>45763813
>First of all, please, PLEASE don't get any ideas. Beyond that...what do you think of her?

Don't get any ideas, you warn Koa as you sweep the sheet away from the pile and examine the contents, please.

“Huh?” Koa snaps back to reality, looking at you like a wounded puppy for a moment, “I wasn't-”

You mean it, you continue without looking up, unless he wants to make an enemy of the Emperor and all his court. Leave this one alone – there will be others.

“Oh, you mean...” Koa frowns, “She is promises to another? To the Emperor, even?”

Maybe. There is talk, you tell the disappointed boy, serious talk to that end. Nothing confirmed as yet, but the risk is such that he'd be a fool to make a move on the young priestess. Silence falls as Koa considers your words. Leaving him to think things over, you roll out a sheet of rice paper and measure it against a thin wooden frame. There are candles here as well, dark things of obvious quality. A shame, you figure, to send them down the river to an unknown fate. A few of those pricey candles vanish into your deep pockets as Koa finally speaks up.

“I suppose I never had much of a chance,” he shrugs, seemingly taking the blow in stride, “Anyway, it would never work. I'd have to keep moving, and she'd be... well, she'd have her own shrine to tend. That's life, right?”

That was easier than you were expecting. Of course, there's no way of knowing just what the boy is thinking – he could be raging behind that calm, sad smile – but he seems to have accepted his fate. So, you ask a moment later, what does he think of her?

“She's got a nice smile,” Koa decides quickly, “It's a smile I want to-”

Don't say “protect”, you sigh, please.

“Oh,” the apprentice hesitates, “Well, it's a nice smile.”

[1/2]

>>45763813
You still want to be a wanderer, right? It would make a relationship rather difficult to pursue

>>45764247
>tfw our apprentice is a weeb

>>45764247
>“She's got a nice smile,” Koa decides quickly, “It's a smile I want to-”

Shounen. As. Fuck.

>>45764247

“I tell you what, though,” Koa says as you're dipping a soft brush into a pot of ink, “If the Emperor has any sense, he'll fall for her in an instant. If you're hoping to get them together, I reckon it'll work. Uh, on his part. I don't know if she has a... a type, or anything.”

That, you say slowly, is a problem for someone else to deal with. You're sure that Ra is grooming the young Emperor exactly for this same purpose, encouraging him towards this same conclusion. Arranged marriages, plainly speaking, have never sat quite right with you.

“I suppose,” Koa sighs, no doubt entertaining all kinds of fantasies. Rescuing the poor princess from her loveless marriage, if he has any romanticism, or just slipping in through her bedroom window at night if not. “She's not our problem though. We just keep on moving forwards.”

That'll do, you decide, and scrawl those words onto the sheet of rice paper. “I hope I can keep moving forwards” - it's a pretty pathetic wish, but it's good enough for you. Assembling the rest of the lantern – it's a flimsy thing, but it doesn't need to last – you prop it up and give it a good look. Here's hoping it works, you mutter to yourself.

“So, I think I'm ready for the speech,” Koa decides eventually, “I think, uh, I might borrow a few of the things you said. You don't mind, right?”

It's what you're here for, you shrug, but he'd better be sure. There isn't much time left.

>Take your lantern and wait for the festival to begin
>Seek out Tawn and check in one last time
>Chat with Koa as you wait for the festivities
>Other

>>45764529
>Take your lantern and wait for the festival to begin
>Chat with Koa as you wait for the festivities

>>45764529
>>Take your lantern and wait for the festival to begin
So what's going to go wrong?

>>45764529
>Take your lantern and wait for the festival to begin
Koa better not sneak off for reason

It won't be long before the festivities begin, you decide, so you should find a good place to watch them from. Anyone coming in late would be stuck at the back of a very large crowd, probably behind someone with giant, obnoxious mask that blocks absolutely everything.

You're not bitter.

So, with the lantern under your arm and Koa following in your footsteps, you begin to work your way through the temple. The ceremony, if such a fancy word is right for it, starts inside and works its way out. The speech will be inside as well – at least, you're assuming so – so you'll be able to get a good view of that as well. It's easy to find the right room – you just need to follow the low hum of excited voices and rushing water. There are already many candles burning in the room, some of the lanterns already throwing off wild shadows.

You got here just in time. If you'd waited much longer, you'd be watching this from the outside. The cheap seats, so to speak. The scent of so many burning candles is rich, causing your head to spin slightly and showing the wavering shadows in a surreal light. Settling in, sitting at the edge of the river, you nod for Koa to join you.

So, you joke, now you know what his type is.

“Uh, yeah,” the boy laughs nervously, before rallying, “So do you have a type? I bet you do, I bet I can guess what it is. Someone like-”

“Sir Koa!” one of the lesser priests, his voice muffled, shouts, “There has been a change of plan. You will be speaking outside, to the massed crowds.”

“Massed crowds?” Koa mutters, “Man...”

Go on, you urge, good luck. He flashes you a faltering smile as he rises, pushing through the crowd to get to where he needs to be.

[1/2]

>>45764968
rip koa

>>45764247
>“It's a smile I want to-”
Oh Koa.

>>45764968

As the boy vanishes from sight, you look out across the first few lanterns that have been lowered into the water. Romantic messages, wishing family and loved ones well. Smiling a little despite yourself – the room is growing warm, as more and more bodies and open flames enter it – and you feel the weight of your fatigue pressing down on you. You could just go to sleep here, you think numbly, and you're tempted to do just that...

Lighting a taper off someone else's candle – the man who offers you his candle wears a leering, bright blue mask of paint – you set your own lantern burning and lower it into the river. Even that little motion is enough to make you dizzy, your thick head swimming. Something... something isn't right here.

Then you see it.

One of the lanterns, the words thrown into stark relief by the flame burning within, screams out a simple message – Death to the Emperor. It's soon joined by another, and another still, all bearing the same treasonous message. Gasping out in shock, you struggle to your feet, seemingly fighting your body every step of the way. This is it, this is the attack you've been sent to ward against! You need to get Koa, Koa and Miura, and get out of here!

As you're wavering, fighting to get to the clean air outside, something heavy crashes into your back. Rough hands are at your belt, then, pulling your sword free. Spinning, almost falling, you come face to face with that leering mask once more, and the bastard that brandishes your blade.

You'll kill him!

>Please roll 1D100, aiming to beat 50, 60 or 70. I'll take the highest of the first three.

Rolled 70 (1d100)

>>45765089
PETRA GUIDE MY DICE

>>45765108
well you have gotten that guidance then

Rolled 41 (1d100)

>>45765089

Rolled 74 (1d100)

>>45765089

>>45765108
What would you call praying to all three of them?

Ametria?

Rolled 21 (1d100)

What if I ask for Mastema?

>>45765244
I just go with "the trio," personally.

Rolled 4 (1d100)

>>45765272
YHVH?

Rolled 41 (1d100)

>>45765300
>>45765272
Lucifer

>>45765272
You get shit rolls, evidently.

>>45765300
>>45765272
Looks about right

Rolled 34 (1d100)

Gabriel?

Rolled 55 (1d100)

>>45765272
What about fedora tipping?

Rolled 28 (1d100)

Doll will bless us.

Rolled 30 (1d100)

benis

As you throw yourself at the faceless attacker – head spinning, mind reeling and blood boiling with rage – you hear the first gunshots ringing out. A ripple of rifle fire, countless cracks overlapping and nearly, but not quite, drowning out the screams that suddenly rise up. You don't have time to focus on that now though, you need to get rid of the enemy before you first.

He raises your sword, plucked right from your belt, and waves it around clumsily in an attempt to deter you. You don't even blink, simply knocking aside the blade with an elbow and stepping neatly into the man's guard. Even with your body seeming to fight against every move you try to make, you can feel yourself bringing your knee up into his stomach, causing the masked attacker to fold in half. Before he can recover, you grab his head and bring your knee up again, slamming the two together.

Countless voices are raised in a chorus of screams. You don't hear the man's nose breaking.

Letting the numb body – alive, dead, you don't care – slither from your grip, you grab your sword and wheel around to brave the crowd. It could erupt into a stampede at any minute, mass confusion easily spilling over into mass panic, but something seems to be holding it back. The people don't seem willing – or, perhaps, able – to move their bodies properly. Some are even sprawled out on the ground, staring into space or sobbing.

Just what the hell is happening here?

[1/2]

>>45765433

Finally forcing your way out of the cramped, smoke-scented building and into the blessed relief of the fresh air, you immediately feel some sense returning. It's not clean air exactly – the scent of powder and gunfire makes for a crude perfume – but it banishes some of that muddy, awful confusion. You hear a final sporadic volley of fire, a strange and unfamiliar sound, before a massive explosion shakes the streets.

Wailing and howling, the people around you fling themselves to the ground, some even throwing themselves into the Dragon River itself in search of safety. Even as that tremendous explosion is still echoing out, a giant plume of smoke descends over the town. It's thick and darkly coloured, stinging your eyes and nose with a kind of mustard stink, and all you can do is wipe your streaming eyes until it begins to fade.

When it does, when it finally does, there is silence. Coughing, retching, you look around across the sea of limp bodies. Most of them move slightly, shifting and letting out soft groans that break the silence, but some are still. Dizzily wandering through the packed bodies, your voice cracks as you call out Koa's name. He has to be here somewhere – he HAS to be!

“Ira?” the boy calls back, his broken voice coming from nearby, “Ira, is that you?”

“Wanderer?” Tawn cries as well, the older man's figure rising up before you, “What... what happened here?”

An attack, you choke out, it was an attack. An ambush. But...

>Koa, are you okay?
>Tawn, tell me everything you can. Quickly!
>Has anyone seen Miura?
>Other

>>45765525
>Koa, are you okay?
Takes 1 sec
>Tawn, tell me everything you can. Quickly!
>Has anyone seen Miura?

>>45765550
>>45765525
+1

>>45765525
>>Koa, are you okay?
>>Tawn, tell me everything you can. Quickly!
>>Has anyone seen Miura?
quickfire everything

>>45765525
>Koa, are you okay?
>Tawn, tell me everything you can. Quickly!
>Has anyone seen Miura?

These are all important

Koa, you ask first, is Koa okay?

“Yes, I'm... yes,” Koa nods before glancing down at a bloodstain on his clothes. “That... that's not my blood!” he cries, “As soon as she shooting started, someone grabbed me and pulled me down. They were lying on top of me the whole time, shielding me with their-”

Your eyes flash to Tawn, and the wounded arm he is clutching to his chest. He must have... no, no time to get bogged down in the details. Tawn, you bark, you need him to tell you everything he can. Quickly!

“We were just getting ready for the first speech,” Tawn says immediately, “There was a cry from within the temple, a shout, and then the gunfire started. Things got messy from there, I don't know how many of them there were. From the sound of all the gunshots, it sounded like an army. No men can fire and reload that quickly. We'll need to count the bodies later, but that last blast threw up so much smoke. They could have easily retreated using it as cover.

And Miura, you ask, has anyone seen her?

“I think I heard her cry out,” Koa says, his voice growing faint as shock starts to take hold, “But... but there were so many people screaming. I don't know-”

“She should be here,” Tawn snaps, pointing with his uninjured arm, “Here, waiting for her turn to speak. Someone must have taken her from right under my nose. Unless... she could have fled back into the temple, or deeper into the town. We need to get her back, but...”

>We need to consolidate our forces. Keep control here and find any survivors
>We need to find Miura. Split up, I'll search the temple while you search the town
>I've got another plan... (Write in)
>Other

>>45765803
Tawm Search the town, I'll search the temple. Koa rally the people here.

>>45765832
Shouldnt Tawn rally the people since he has the soldiers?

>>45765803
>We need to find Miura. Split up, I'll search the temple while you search the town

>>45765832
>>45765898
Seems to me like the best way to do it would to have Tawn rally his soldiers and search the town. More bodies to cover more ground. Koa can stick with us.

You need to find Miura, you decide, as quickly as possible. Normally, you'd stick together but time is of the essence – you'll check the temple, if Tawn gathers his troops and searches the town. Koa can come with you, you'll want someone watching your back if you're going back into that temple. Any objections?

“No, you're right,” Tawn nods, “We need to cover ground quickly. The priestess is important – my orders were to keep her safe in particular.” Pulling a tin whistle from around his neck, Tawn blows twice on it and waits. A moment passes, and then another two notes reach back to you in reply. “Alright, my second is still alive. We'll focus on searching the town and looking for survivors... or prisoners. Good luck with the temple, Ira.”

You just hope you don't need it. Koa sticks close as you return to the temple, stepping cautiously over bodies and helping the occasional survivor to their feet. The masked man you struck is gone, but he left his mask behind – the face caved in and deformed. Peering inside, you feel a certain vindictive spite at the sight of the blood crusted on the inside. Dropping the mask with a hollow clunk, you begin to work your way, methodically, through the temple corridors.

At the central chamber, you pass the scattered remains of the supplies that Miura showed you, the candles and rice paper for making lanterns, but you don't have time to stop. Koa cries out before your thought can finish forming. A body, he cries, he's found a body.

[1/2]

>>45766155

When you arrive, the boy is gasping with relief. “One of the servants,” he breathes, “Alive. Passed out, thank the gods. This is all so... I mean. Ira, what happened here? We can't find her anywhere, and this all happened so quickly...”

Too quickly, you agree, and it was all too perfect. Whoever carried out this attack, they had people on the inside. Definitely inside the temple, and maybe even men inside Tawn's detachment of soldiers. You can't even rule out Holm being to blame for this. After all, he was the one who was most opposed to cooperating with the Emperor...

Before you can say anything else, or even voice your suspicions, you hear Tawn's whistle blasting away from outside. This is no organised signal – this is a desperate cry to get your attention. Swapping a hasty glance with Koa, you hurry from the temple. Outside, standing in the blasted streets, Tawn wears a wretched look on his face.

“Nothing,” he spits as soon as you approach, “We found blood, but no bodies. No bullet casings either – like they were never shooting at us! These bastards are like ghosts!”

Calm down, you order him, was there anything at all he found?

“This,” Tawn thrusts a flier at you, crumpled and stained with soot, “Read the back.”

Frowning, you turn the flimsy paper over and scan the words slashed onto the page, your blood running cold as you do so.

“We have the priestess,” the message reads, “Build this railroad, and she will be sacrificed to her god.”

>I think that's a reasonable place to end things. Next thread on Friday, and I'll try to stick around for any questions.

>>45766298
Thanks for running, Moloch.

>>45766298
Thanks for running Moloch! So on scale of Ira to Furyo how mad is the old man?

>>45766298
Time for a rescue.

Thanks for the run.

>>45766298
Is it time for Koa to become truly shonen?
>captch is shadow lane
No, shonen, not edge.

>>45766360

"Platinum mad" would probably be the most appropriate term, I think!

>>45766329
>>45766372

Thanks for taking part!

>>45766382

A dramatic rescue, swooping in the claim the fair maiden's heart? I imagine he'd like it to end that way, but things aren't so certain at the moment!

>>45766298
i find it odd that on the note it says "her god" not "our god"

>>45766464
I do too

>>45766420
Howa find any other sacrifices to Selene in that book?

>>45766464

It could be a clue!

>>45766492

So far, the only mention of Selene in the big book of sacrifice involved tossing an "impure" priestess into a deep, still lake by moonlight. That's all Howa's been able to find.

>>45766542
>"impure"

...is this leading to what I think it is?

>>45766587

I'm not sure. "Impurity" could be taken as a lot of things - even just talking with others deemed impure, depending on how fanatical the person is. If it was known that Miura was intended to be the Emperor's bride, that might be enough to enrage a certain number of people.

>>45766542
Shit nigga. We're those candles messing with people? Poisoned wax or something? It would give us a lead to investigate maybe said temple of the Dragon dildos.

>>45766806

That certainly sounds like a place to start an investigation. I can't guarantee they'll lead you right to the culprits, but every little bit of evidence helps!