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>>47539096

“This place feels like home,” Murasa, captain of the Hijiri, says as she guides her vessel into the capital, “I never realised how depressing that was. Folks like me, we weren't supposed to feel at home in a place like this. Still, I've got to admit... there's something nice about having a place to come back to. You ever feel like that, friend?”

Thinking of Howa and the Nameless Temple, you nod. The life of a rootless traveller is fine for a while, but as you get older, you started yearning for the chance to settle down, to enjoy life at a slower pace.

“Less of that “getting older” talk,” Murasa warns you, “We're not on dry land yet, so I'm still in charge here. I'll still toss you overboard.”

Of course, you sigh, that old threat again.

“I'll do it this time,” she insists, “I'll... huh, what's all this about? Looks like we've got ourselves a welcoming committee.”

Following the path of Murasa's pointed finger, you spot a small group of soldiers – bearing jade armbands, the sign of the palace guard – waiting at the dock for you. As the Hijiri eases in, and you stride off the vessel, the soldiers approach you.

“We have our orders to see you to the palace,” the officer in charge begins, looking straight into your eye. If he's trying to intimidate you, he'll have a hard job of it. “Immediately,” he adds after a moment, “However, I also have orders to state that you are not under arrest.”

Well that's good, you tell him calmly, isn't it? Waving goodbye to Murasa – she is, apparently, no longer needed – you follow the group of soldiers. After marching in silence for a while, the officer slows to match your pace.

“My orders were to see you to the Emperor's advisor,” he says carefully, “But he is currently attending to business. Is there anyone else I can take you too, until he returns?”

>Miura, if she's available
>I need to see the Emperor
>A representative of the military
>Other

>>47539100
>>Miura, if she's available
drop off those papers to her bodyguard.

>>47539100
>Miura, if she's available
Hand off the Garuna Catacombs layout to Ishida while we are at it.

>>47539100
>>Miura, if she's available

You'd like to see Miura, you explain, if she's available.

“The... guest?” the soldier stumbles over the word, some uncertainty barring him from using the word “priestess”. No doubt that Miura's position marks her out as an irregularity here, an oddity to be regarded with care and caution. Her status as the Emperor's guest, however, shields her from all but the most backhanded criticism. “Yes, I believe she should be able to receive visitors,” he continues.

That's all he has to say on the subject for a while, only speaking up again when you reach the boundaries of the palace. “We're back on our feet now,” he remarks, with a trace of pride, “They hit us hard, when we were attacked, but things are just about back to normal now. At least, they should be normal. As you can see, there's some... uncertainty at the moment.”

You can certainly see that. Soldiers are swarming over the palace, the subtle differences in their uniforms marking them out as being from several different garrisons. Takino's soldiers rub shoulders with capital troops, men serving under Hirohito. They all move with the haste of disciplined, yet busy, men. It almost looks like they were preparing for a new attack, a new siege on the palace. Could they have got word of the Ascetic already?

“You didn't hear?” the guard looks around, a trace of surprise entering his voice, “No, I suppose not. You've been... well, no matter. The Emperor is preparing to leave the capital, to travel the length of the land. As you can imagine, security is important at a time like this. Excuse me, I need to make an inquiry.”

As the soldier leaves you, flanked by a pair of his lower ranked colleagues, you consider the situation. So, the Emperor is heading out to the Dragon's Head after all – now, of all times.

“Follow me,” your escort says as he returns, “Our guest is taking tea in the gardens.”

[1/2]

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>>47539301

Somewhere along the way, your escort falls away to a respectful distance and lets you finish the journey under your own power. They trust you, it seems, or they know you wouldn't be foolish enough to start a fight here. Not when every rifle in the capital could be pointed your way in an instant.

Still, if that violence is an ever-present option, it doesn't feel that way. The gardens are serene, nearly devoid of all life. Miura sits at a table, a tall and delicate cup by her side, while Ishida lurks between the two of you, playing the role of bodyguard perfectly. When you approach, she gives you a cool nod.

“Furyo,” she says quietly, “You look well.”

Really, you ask, you thought Ishida wasn't allowed to lie.

“You look well,” she corrects herself with a faint smile, “Compared with a corpse.”

That's more like it. Carefully reaching into your pack, you pass the tightly wound scroll over to Ishida. A gift, you tell her quietly, something she might be interested in reading.

“I'm always interested in history,” Ishida confirms, “And I think I've found a good time to get some more, ah, practical knowledge. I'll tell you later – you're not here looking for me, were you? Go on, I imagine Miura will be happy to see you. Things have been a little unsettled around here, and she could use another friendly face.”

Frowning a little at Ishida's implication – trouble in paradise? - you approach Miura and carefully clear your throat. She turns, and offers you a brief but unguarded smile.

“Sir Ira,” she greets you, “I'm glad you were able to come. Just in time, I should say.”

>In time for what?
>How are things between you and the Emperor?
>Tell me, how have you been doing?
>I wanted to ask you something... (Write in)
>Other

>>47539348
>In time for what?
>How are things between you and the Emperor?
>Tell me, how have you been doing?

>>47539348
>In time for what?

Then
>Tell me, how have you been doing?
>How are things between you and the Emperor?
>Other
Guess who woke up from his nap a few days ago.

>>47539348
>In time for what?
>Tell me, how have you been doing?
>How are things between you and the Emperor?

>>47539348
>I wanted to ask you something... (Write in)
Are you two going on this tour with Sho as well?

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In time, you ask, for what?

“To accompany us, of course!” Miura smiles again, “Sho... the Emperor has asked me to accompany him on his travels. I was given to understand that you would be travelling with us, to serve as a mediator between the Emperor and... whoever else he may speak with.”

That's certainly painting your role in a more pleasant light. If you would be accompanying them – and this is news to you – then you'll be serving as a bodyguard, no different from Ishida. So, you ask, does she know where the Emperor plans to go?

“First, to the Dragon's Head – I dearly wished to see it again, under better circumstances – and then to the Nameless Temple. Won't that be nice?” she asks, “You can show us around, I'm sure he'd be fascinated by it! When we're finished there, I asked if we could visit Garuna. I believe that the Emperor should have the chance to meet with my... with the high priestess. Sooner, I should add, rather than later.”

Frowning again at that vague suggestion, you wait for Miura to explain. She gasps slightly, as if realising her error, and then hastens to reveal her secrets.

“You mustn't spread this around,” she whispers, “But I believe the Emperor plans to ask for my hand in marriage.”

So, you think to yourself, it looks like Sho has finally found his nerve. What does she think about that, you ask, how are things between the two of them??

“Oh, well, I...” Miura hesitates – just for a second, mind, but a significant second nonetheless – before continuing on, “I like him. I feel that... it would be no hardship, becoming his bride. I would have to put aside my duties as a priestess, but that's a sacrifice I am prepared to make.”

[1/2]

>>47539608

What about her, you ask, how has she been doing?

“I mustn't complain,” the young priestess complains, “But I find it rather lonely here. Ra is often busy with his duties, and there are so many layers of... protocol. Sho and I, we cannot just speak as two teenagers should speak. If will be a relief, I think, to visit Garuna for a time, even if it is a short time. If we are to marry, I fear this may be the last time I will see it. Not... as I see it now. If I should visit Garuna again, it will be as an ambassador, a politician.”

The conversation dies here, quite naturally fading into an awkward pause. Clearing your throat, you pick a topic at random to discuss. Someone woke up from their nap a few days ago, you tell Miura, can she guess who?

“A nap?” she frowns slightly, “I... cannot say, Sir Ira. Is this a riddle?”

Nodens, you tell her, he has risen to the surface once more. You spoke, actually – he's an interesting man to speak with.

“Ah!” Miura's eyes widen a little, “Amazing! I wonder... what will Selene think about this?”

Perhaps she'll get the chance to find out, you tell her, when she visits Garuna again. Speaking of that visit, are they both going to be attending – Ishida as well?

“She will be coming,” Miura confirms, “I dare say, she wouldn't let me out of her sight for long. Her orders are quite strict – I was to be protected, no matter the circumstances. Ah, I don't wish to sound ungrateful – Ishida is a good friend, and a fine companion. I'm lucky to have such a devoted attendant.”

Before Miura can add anything to that, your former escort appears. “I have orders,” he begins, “To take you speak with the Emperor's advisor. His business has concluded, and he wished to speak with you.”

>Lead on, then
>Can it wait? I had some other business... (Write in)
>Miura, I wanted to ask you something before I go... (Write in)
>Other

>>47539636
>Lead on, then

>>47539636
>Lead on, then
Looks like we'll have to protect both of them when Ascetic attacks.

>>47539636
>>47539636
>Lead on, then
Ishida's got her work cut out for her, if she ever has to face one of Ascetic's men.

Lead on then, you tell the guard, you've got your own reasons for wanting to speak with Ra. The informal note in your voice causes his eye to twitch a little – a soldier, through and through – but he turns to lead you away regardless. As you're heading out, Ishida catches your arm.

“Garuna hasn't had a visit from an Emperor in... ever,” she murmurs to you, “It'll be quite the mess. I dare say that nobody would notice the pair of us creeping off to explore the catacombs. I can't see us getting a better chance.”

Maybe, you mutter back, but it might not be safe enough. You've got a damn good reason not to stray from the Emperors side.

“I'm just thought you should know,” the bodyguard tells you, releasing your arm, “It's not what I'd call “ideal” either, but sometimes you've got to take what you can get. That's life, right Furyo?” There's a certain cynicism in her voice that you don't care to dwell on, so you simply give Ishida a vague nod and hurry after the guard. With the Ascetic on the loose, you might have to put everything else on hold.

The sooner you get the chance to put him down, the better.

Into winding corridors and finely decorated halls, the guard leads you towards Ra's private chambers. Once again, he gives you a generous distance once you get close, allowing you to finish the short trip without the sound of his boots thumping against the plush carpet. A small blessing, but one you appreciate nonetheless.

When you knock, Ra calls out for you to enter. When you see him, you nearly mistake him for a far older man – the room is gloomy, and stress has done the spymaster no favours.

The fact that you're about to make his day a lot worse doesn't improve your mood any. Still, he needs to know about this.

[1/2]

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>>47539896

“It's a bloody mess, Ira,” Ra sighs, once you've finished telling him about the Ascetic's plans, “I know there's a lot to gain from the excursion, but the risks were already enormous. This only makes things that much worse.” He reaches for a thick crystal bottle of some spirit but then changes his mind.

It's definitely an additional risk, you agree, but there's no way of knowing that the Emperor would be any safer within the palace. The Ascetic seems patient enough, but he's also smart – if a hole in the palace defences doesn't show itself, he isn't above making his own opportunity. A second attack on the capital isn't out of the question, and he wouldn't be nearly so delicate.

“And he wanted to leave as soon as possible,” Ra complains, “The Emperor, I mean. He was undecided about this for so long, and Hirohito almost convinced him to stay here. Then, quite suddenly, he was determined to leave. I can't say why... but I can guess.”

Miura, you think to yourself. Either she convinced Sho, or the foolish boy did it to impress her.

“Then, Hirohito said that he'd come with us,” Ra grimaces, “Another sudden change. Before now, he had nothing but scorn for the idea. Still, that matter has been dealt with, at least. You probably saw the chaos about the palace as you were coming in. Well... no matter.” Sighing again, he casts a longing look at the crystal decanter. “Oh, I'm sorry for rambling. What do you think about all this, then?”

>I'm not coming along. This isn't my problem
>I think it should be cancelled. It's too much of a risk
>So, when do we leave?
>Could you tell me a little more about Hirohito's part in all this?
>Other

>>47539928
>Could you tell me a little more about Hirohito's part in all this?

>>47539928
>Could you tell me a little more about Hirohito's part in all this?
>So, when do we leave?
"Ra, I am going to need to be by the Emperor indefinitely until Ascetic is dead. I'm the only one that has the means to counter his sorcery. I don't think the Ascetic knows my capabilities or that I am onto him so that gives us a slight advantage."

>>47539928
>At least we probably won't need to worry about warrior zealots
>When the attack comes, don't mistake the enemy for regular humans. Outnumber them 5 to 1, and I would still worry. They won't be very many, at least.
>Could you tell me a little more about Hirohito's part in all this?

>>47539928
>Could you tell me a little more about Hirohito's part in this?
I have a bad feeling he knows Aya is still alive.

>>47540054
it's not exactly hard to figure out for the spymaster. The question is who ordered the attack in the first place, and if THEY know/care.

>>47540054
If he doesn't he is going to know soon enough with new paper coming out. Still, trying to go for Aya would be an taken as an attack on the Nameless Temple so I don't think he is going to try anything.

>>47540073
Well Ra knew all along since we told him.

>>47539928
>Other

Ira Can't be the only wanderer. Why don't we call in backup to secure the Emperor? Get a couple dudes to petition Murmur to help them get rid of a Sorcerer and such.

>>47539928
I'm just saying, body doubles are a thing. Maybe Selene could even help him appear to be in two places at once?

>>47540073
>>47540081
I meant Hirohito, not Ra.

>>47540126
Well Song of Discord just stays on and covers a long range. I don't think having more of the spell would change anything.

There are a few things you wanted to suggest, you tell Ra, about how best to handle this situation. First of all, you need to be by the Emperor's side as much as you can – maybe even indefinitely. The Ascetic is likely to use sorcery, and you're the only one who can counter that. If there's one advantage to this, it's that you don't think the Ascetic knows about you yet – he'll not be expecting someone with your skills when he attacks.

“Excellent,” Ra nods, “I'm only too happy to have you by the Emperor's side. I don't think he'll have any complaints, either, although I suspect his reasons would differ from my own. What else can you give me?”

These assassins the Ascetic will bring, you begin, don't mistake them for normal men. When fighting them, outnumbering them five to one might still not be enough. If there's one blessing, it's that he'll only have a dozen of them. Anyone else he manages to sway to his cause, they'll just be normal men.

“Which is still a threat,” Ra reminds you, “A rifle is a great equaliser, after all.”

Of course. At least they won't have to worry about Kala's own warrior-priests. The Ascetic saw to that. This time, as you fall silent, you're the one to cast a hungry eye over at the flask of liquor. This thing with Hirohito, you mention, it's bothering you – what's his role in all this?

“He first decided to travel with us, with the Emperor, after meeting with Takino. I can't learn what they talked about, not with all my resources,” Ra grimaces, “However, whatever they discussed, it had an impact. Perhaps Hirohito fears losing his influence over the Emperor, because he added himself to the excursion. The Emperor... didn't take that well. Suffice to say, Hirohito found himself with new orders – he has been moved to the Stone of the South-West, along with many of his troops. For now, the capital is in Takino's hands.”

Takino, the brave defender of the city. Bastard.

[1/2]

>>47540237

So, you ask after you trust yourself not to curse aloud, when does the Emperor plan on leaving?

“If it had been up to him, yesterday,” Ra shakes his head wearily, “I was able to stall him, though, in the hopes that you could make it here. As you can imagine, I'd planned to have you serve as an intermediary between the Emperor and the more faithful individuals he met with. Like, say, Lapis. Now, I'm especially glad you're with us. I wager the Emperor will want to leave immediately.”

No time to make extra arrangements then, you sigh. You had been hoping to draft in a few extra Wanderers, to train them to defeat sorcery as you can.

“If you sent a bird ahead, they might be able to meet us at the Dragon's Head,” Ra offers, “But I doubt there would be any time to train them specially. Still, if you feel the reinforcements would help, by all means send for them. I dare say their help will be as welcome as yours.”

And what about a body double, you ask, is there any time to arrange that?

“I've arranged to have a number of carriages prepared,” Ra replies, “Identical to the Imperial carriage, and fully enclosed. It's not exactly a body double, but it should offer some concealment as we travel. Again, without time for anything more effective, this is the best I can manage. The Emperor, you understand, is impulsive – he doesn't take well to waiting, even when his life is in danger.”

That's something you've come to realise.

“So...” Ra stands, smoothing out his clothes, “I could make the preparations for us to depart, if you wish.”

>I'm ready. Go for it
>Let me send for those reinforcements first
>Can you stall a little longer, I had some more business... (Write in)
>Other

>>47540284
>>Let me send for those reinforcements first
Give a status report for everyone about recent events as well. Kala, Nodens, Veragi, Ascetic, the tour, etc.

Then let's go.

>>47540284
>Let me send for those reinforcements first
Give everyone the news, Also make a separate letter Howa only. She'd like that I imagine.

>>47540284
Should we tell Ra what we know of the prophesy? That Sho is generally okay with putting his life on the line defying gods because otherwise, he's fated to die anyway?

>>47540284
>Let me send for those reinforcements first

>>47540340
Suppose so. I'm sure Ra has been curious for years now.

The boy isn't dying young if we have anything to say about it.

>>47540340
may as well, also tell him who and where we got it from. Nodens looks weird, but he's a cool dude.

You have a few letters you need to send first, you tell Ra, before you can leave.

“Sending for those reinforcements, then?” he asks.

Among other things, you answer vaguely, you want to keep everyone updated. If nothing else, you can have them clean up the Nameless Temple a little before the Emperor arrives. It wouldn't do to make a bad impression on him, would it?

“Well, that's certainly true. I can't imagine he would order the temple shut down because of a little dust, but it never hurts to be presentable,” Ra forces a laugh, seeking out what little cheer he can find in the situation. In that moment, you decide to answer one of the man's longest held questions – the nature of Sho's prophecy. As you tell him this, Ra's eyes widen. “You learned it?” he gasps, “How... I mean...”

Nodens, having risen from the depths of the ocean, was able to tell you. The prophecy, you tell Ra quietly, is a simple one – Sho would die young, and as the last of his line. With that grim fate hanging over him, the boy had no reason to fear the gods – either he would defy them, with all the dangers involved, or he would succumb to the fate laid out for him. Resignation can make a man dangerous, after all.

“You're right, it's simple,” Ra sinks into his seat as he thinks, “And still, it destroyed his parents. To think, so much of this suffering could have been averted if only Selene had kept her poison words to herself. At times such as these, Ira, I confess that I can sympathise with those who hate the gods. They really don't understand us mere mortals, do they?”

With nothing else to say, you find yourself murmuring a vague apology to Ra. What you're apologising for, you couldn't quite say.

“Thank you for telling me this, Ira,” the old advisor says, his words solemn but heavy with gratitude, “I feel... like I understand the boy a little better now.”

Well, you reply awkwardly, you'd better go. You've got a message to send, after all.

[1/2]

>>47540545

You spend a long time writing your messages, your concentration hardly helped by the constant murmur of birds in the distance. How the aviary attendant can endure this place, you'll never understand. Finally, when you get them worded just right – admittedly, it's the letter to Howa that takes the longest to pen – you hand them over and pay to have them flown to the Nameless Temple. Hopefully, they reach their destination as fast as the attendant claims they will.

Making your way back to the palace entrance, you meet with Ra halfway and he leads you to the gathering party. He carries a map under one arm, rolled into a tight scroll. Outside, in the shadow of three grand carriages, he crosses to a low table and spreads out the map.

“Our plan is to travel roughly halfway today,” Ra explains, tracing one finger along the map, “This outpost here is where we'll stop and rest. Yesterday, I ordered troops out to secure it. After spending the night there, we'll ride into the Dragon's Head with the rising sun. The Emperor insisted that it had to be that way.”

Gazing down at the route, you remark that it's a slow one. Setting off now, they could make it far further before nightfal.

“A lone rider could, certainly,” Ra points out, “But we'll be travelling in convoy, taking it slowly and cautiously. In addition, we won't ride at night – the risk of ambush is simply too great.”

A fair point.

“Now, you could ride here, in one of the decoy carriages,” Ra continues, nodding to the vehicles, “Or you could ride ahead with the scouts. They're well trained, but not infallible. If there's any traps along the road, your help might make the difference. Then again, there's always the rearguard, but that might be a waste of your talents. Where do you want to place yourself?”

>I'll ride in one of the decoys
>Get me a horse, I'll ride ahead with the scouts
>I'll handle the rearguard
>Other

>>47540620
>I'll ride in one of the decoys
Stay close to the Emperor.

>>47540620
>Stay with the Emperor
we have Towards the Great Land to immediately move him somewhere else, then possibly Veragi's Step back into the fight.

>>47540620
>I'll ride in one of the decoys

>>47540620
>Other
Couldn't we get a horse and ride alongside in the middle with the decoys and Emperor? We can get to the rear or front quickly if need be.

>>47540715
>>47540620
this

>>47540715

>Yes, that's certainly possible. I'll add that in, if anyone wanted to vote for that or change their vote.

>>47540743
>>47540715
>>47540759
Thirding this then.

First rule of escort missions - Don't Ditch Your Escort.

You said you'd stay by the Emperor's side, you tell Ra, and you meant that. You're not going to ride in one of the decoys, however – carriages were never really your kind of thing. If they give you a horse, you'll ride by their side. That way, you can move to where you're needed the most at a moment's notice.

“I see,” Ra nods, “Excellent idea, Ira. Ah, here's someone I wanted to introduce you to. Captain, could you come over here?”

The man that heeds Ra's call wears the white cloak of a herald, but otherwise looks remarkably unimpressive. He is, quite possibly, the laziest looking man you've ever seen. His moustache droops, and his long, grey hair is tied back. The only thing about him that doesn't look half-hearted are his eyes, alive with a bright intelligence. Saluting, he offers you his hand.

“Ira, this is Captain Akito, the lead scout,” Ra explains, “He'll be riding ahead of us. With a little luck, you won't see him again until we arrive at the outpost.”

“Charming,” Akito grumbles, his voice as slow and easy-going as you expected, “Here, gods willing, you won't need this.” He hands you a tin whistle, a long cord allowing you to hang it from your neck. “If any of us runs into trouble, we'll give a single long blow on it. To signal the all clear, two short blasts. You got that, friend?”

One call for danger, you repeat, two for safety.

“Good man,” Akito nods, “I'll be going ahead with three of my best men. If we run across anything – a trap, a blockage in the road, anything – I'll send one of them back to you with the news. Other than that, I don't think we'll need to bother each other much. Good travels, friend.”

Saluting once more, Akito turns and wanders away without another word. “Not much of a talker,” Ra explains as he departs, “But an excellent scout. Well, I think that about wraps up the preparations. Ready to hit the road?”

>I'm ready
>I had some other business to take care of... (Write in)
>Other

>>47540917
>>I'm ready

>>47540917
>I'm ready

>>47540917
>I'm ready

>>47540917
>I'm ready

You're ready, you tell Ra, ready for whatever dangers the road might have to throw at you.

“Good,” Ra looks out along the three carriages, all sturdily built and nearly identical. Only a faint sloppiness marks out the pair of imposters, a testament to their hasty construction. Nothing, you hope, that should be particularly noticeable out upon the open road. “The Emperor will be riding in the middle carriage, with Miura, Ishida and I. The other two will have soldiers – well trained men, ones I trust absolutely – in them. With a little luck, we won't need their strength.”

With a little luck, you echo hollowly. Right now, you're not about to put too much trust in luck.

-

By nature, you're not a slow rider. You tend to hurry from place to place, from job to job. Slowly guiding your horse along this forested path seems like something you'd do to pass the time on a lazy weekend. It's almost leisurely, relaxing and calm.

Your pace is the only calm thing about the journey. Ever noise, every rustle of leaves or crack of a breaking branch causes you – and every other soldier riding around you – to look around in carefully controlled panic. Even if you could forget the constant tapestry of noises surrounding you, the military issue carbine in your hands is a reminder of your duties. It's a heavy weapon, without much in the way of elegance, but it's easier to use from horseback than a full sized rifle. The other soldiers carry identical weapons, occasionally bringing them up to scan the treeline.

Without looking at your map, you can't be sure, but you're about halfway between the capital and your destination when the first problem arises. A rider, wearing the white armband of a scout, comes racing down the path towards you. Staring down the rifle barrels that suddenly turn to face him, he cries out a hasty explanation.

[1/2]

>>47541203

“It were the rope we saw first,” he says, in between heavy breaths, “Strung right across the road. I don't rightly know how it worked – I'm no mechanic or nothing – but Captain Akito said it were a bomb it was hooked up to. A real nasty one, he said, something ready to blow a horse right in half. He took a look at it himself, while we stood guard.”

And, you prompt, what happened?

“Well, he took it to bits,” the scout explains, “Good with his hands, the captain. Damn thing was crammed full of nails, bit of sharp steel. No danger now, thank the gods, but it was a close thing. No sign of anything else, no bandits or nothing, but I was sure we were being watched. Like, maybe this was just to slow us down, that's what the captain said. Too obvious to be a real trap. He sent me back, told me to tell you that it's safe to proceed. He'll be there at the outpost to meet us, right like we planned.”

With that, the scout guides his steed in a tight circle and takes off ahead of you, carving out the trail that you'll follow.

-

The sun is starting to dip low in the sky when you arrive, and it isn't long before you start to sense danger. Contrary to what the scout told you, nobody rides out to meet you, to welcome you and offer you shelter. In fact, the outpost is completely deserted. Slowing your horse right down, you ride to the Emperor's carriage and rap your knuckles against the door. As Ra opens a thin slit – you hate speaking to a closed door – you explain the situation in a clipped, terse voice.

“I see,” Ra replies simply, “I fear that our scouts may be... no, it's too early to say. What would you suggest, Ira?”

>We get out of here. Ride hard, and we might make it to the Dragon's Head within a few hours
>I want to search this place carefully before deciding our next move
>We hole up in the most secure building and wait until dawn. Then we move
>Other

>>47541382
wait, the scouts aren't supposed to use the whistle signals to give an all clear, just us?

>>47541382
>I want to search this place carefully before deciding our next move
Detect Magic on the outpost.

No one has been using whistles...

>>47541401

>That's correct - they SHOULD be using their whistles. Assuming everything is going to plan, of course.

>>47541382
>I want to search this place carefully before deciding our next move

We didn't smell sorcery on that scout did we?

>>47541382
>I want to search this place carefully before deciding our next move

>>47541468

>We didn't sense anything abnormal about him at the time, no.

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You want to search this place, you tell Ra, and you want to search it well. Once you know what happened, you can make a decision about your next move. For one thing, you want to know where the scouts went, what fate befell them. That, you feel, could shed a great deal of light on things here.

“Very well,” Ra nods, “I'll have some of the troops spread out to cover more ground, while the others stay close to guard the Emperor. I hope-”

Anything else Ra might have to say is cut off as Sho Tatsuhiro, Emperor of all Tenngaru, pushes his boyish face over to the slit in the door. “This is exciting!” he announces, with an idiot grin, “I knew that leaving the palace would be interesting, but I didn't think it would be like this. Is travelling with you always so eventful?”

Actually, you sigh as you dismount your horse, he's not that far away from the truth.

“You'll have plenty of stories to share, then?” he asks, his insistent voice following you as you take a few cautious steps away. Ignoring him as best you can, you check the carbine over one last time – loaded and ready for use – and begin to prowl through the darkened outpost. As you walk, you let your senses expand to take in any kind of magical presence.

It's hard to say exactly what you sense, but the effects are immediately obvious. The gun in your hands feels cold, as dead as a lump of stone. Suddenly, you recall the vision of those massacred sailors, and how their weapons failed them as well. Some magic stopped them from firing, leaving the powder dead and their primers inert. That same magic is here, draped across the outpost like a wet blanket.

The Ascetic is, at the very least, close by.

[1/2]

>>47541615
Would Song of Discord or Veragi's Blade nullify the anti-gun spell? Don't do it now though, don't want to tip our hand just yet.

>>47541658

Veragi's dagger would cancel the spell, yes. Song of Discord would as well, and it would prevent additional spells from being used.

>>47541615

Following some nameless instinct, perhaps the guidance of your heightened senses, you creep around to one of the darkened, deserted buildings. A general store, you assume as you spot the sign hanging above the door, one with neither clerk nor customer. The shop itself is of no interest – there's an identical copy in every outpost you could stop at – but as you approach, you hear the buzz of flies. When the wind shifts, the smell of death reaches you.

Grimacing, you creep around behind the shop and stop, the stench hitting you harder now. With barely a scattering of dirt to cover them, you easily make out the outlines of bodies, nearly a dozen of them – it's hard to say exactly, such is the state of dismemberment. Despite the bile rising up in your throat, you kneel down and brush aside some of that dirt. One of the smashed, bloodied faces staring blindly up at you is familiar – that drooping moustache in unmistakable.

So, you think to yourself with a cold precision, that's what happened to the scouts.

Then, behind you, there is a rustle from deep within the undergrowth.

>Please roll 1D100, aiming to beat 60/80/90. I'll take the highest of the first three, and spell cards can be used. Choose wisely!

Rolled 16 (1d100)

>>47541716

Rolled 55 (1d100)

>>47541716
Let's see the rolls first.

Rolled 80 (1d100)

>>47541716

>>47541757
>>47541716
Ok solid. Would Wrath just this one combatant or this entire conflict at the outpost?

>>47541777

>I'd say it would last for the entire conflict, until the danger has passed.

>>47541804
Alright let's start Wrath early then.

>>47541777
Only works on one target though

>>47541804
If it only works on one target I'd rather save it for Ascetic but if it works for the whole conflict then use it.

>>47541836
>>47541851

>Yes, that's correct. Once we move onto a new target, the bonus will drop back to +5. However, that minimum bonus will last for the entire combat.

>>47541862
Oh! That's fine then, go ahead and use Wrath. Saves us from needing to activate it later.

>>47541862
Also stab this dude with Veragi's dagger.

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Rolled 41 (1d100)

As you rise and start to turn, the rustle turns into the crash of a charging animal. The figure that bursts from the trees is muscular, his skin painted with flowing, intricate designs that seem to blur his outline. His eyes bulge from his skull, and the teeth that leer out from drawn lips are very white indeed. All those details, you notice in the space of a second.

The sword he carries, you notice as he raises it above his head, howling like a beast as he prepares to bring it down upon you. This bestial creature, this soulless animal that hides behind the shape of a man, could only be one of the Ascetic's chosen few – one of twelve savage beings. With the useless carbine still clutched in your hands – you curse the decision to keep hold of it – you can but raise it to catch the falling blade. The sword bites deep into the carbine's wooden stock and catches fast. The rifle might be in a poor shape, but it served its purpose.

As the savage stares at you, a faint confusion entering his eyes, you kick him in the stomach. It's like kicking a damn statue. Still, you knock him down and away, buying yourself enough time to draw your sword and dagger.

Facing the barbaric assassin, you hear a distant shout – the first of many, no doubt – and more of those savage cries. Other attackers are emerging from the trees, falling upon the soldiers with hungry blades.

Then your enemy lunges forwards once more – his sword abandoned and replaced by a knife – and your world narrows to him and him alone.

>Please roll 1D100, aiming to beat 70/80/90. I'll take the highest of the first three, and this will be at +10.
>I'll roll an attack for this guy, aiming to beat 60/80/90.

Rolled 100 (1d100)

>>47541949
As the mountain

>>47541949
Song of Discord! Those men need their guns and it will disorient the Berserkers.

>>47541983
>>47541949
This. Also I don't think I need to roll.

>>47541956
Nice

>>47541949
Also whenever this fight ends try to keep him alive just for a second and use
>[Panoptes] Testing the Web
And find the connection that he is the most 'Loyal' to. Find Ascetic.

>>47542005
You're welcome, hopefully Ira one shots him.

As the assassin charges towards you, you duck and step quickly towards him, allowing the clumsy attack to fly straight over your head. With his momentum carrying him past you, the berserker is helpless against your attack. You slash across his back with your sword, splitting those intricate designs adorning his skin and spilling out a wash of dark blood.

Not enough blood – your blade just doesn't seem to bite into him as it would a normal human, as though his skin was as tough as thick leather. Neither does the wound seem to cause him even the slightest trace of discomfort or inconvenience. Oh, he cries out as your sword slides through him, but it's a howl of simple, blood-drunk rage. There's no pain in his voice, no fear or dismay.

No humanity at all, in fact. It's just as Marlo said – it's like the Ascetic pulled out whatever it was that made him a man, and replaced it with a beast.

With an anger building within your heart – it's a familiar anger, but a pale phantom of the true rage that abominations stir – you thrust your sword through the back of the barbarian's knee, pinning him to the ground. Disarming him with a savage twist of your hand – you feel bones shatter as you crush his wrist – you cast his knife away. Then, with the enchanted dagger held in a tight grip, you plunge the blade into his back. As the black metal enters his, his eyes lose that blank ferocity.

“What-” he mumbles, every trace of pain and anguish that had been missing rushing back to him. Ignoring his words, you drag up the memory of Panoptes, of the spider's great web. This time, it's easy to read.

Two frail connections – the memory of a savage kinship, perhaps – stretch away to the rest of the battlefield. Other assassins, you presume. The final connection – tainted, but recognisable as a fanatical loyalty – leads you further away, into the forest.

And it's getting further away with each passing moment.

>Pursue the Ascetic
>Stay and continue the fight

>>47542171
I need a look at how the fight is going outside to decide. Execute this dude and look. Did our Song of Discord as they were charging give our men the edge with the rifles being available along with the weakened Berserkers?

>>47542171
No wait! Go outside and address all the assassins. Get all their attention somehow and
>[Lapis] Draconic Authority
"Find and kill your Master Ascetic. Do not stop until he is dead."

That way the convoy is okay and we have our own bloodhounds.

>>47542232
>>47542171
If we can do this, fucking go for it.

Let loose the hounds. Hopefully Ascetic will kill them all in self defense and he'll be tired out when he fights us.

>>47542232
>>47542171
+1

>>47542203

>Okay, a few more details about the fight, in spoiler tags:
With rifle fire, the soldiers were able to bring down one of the attackers, with two left to reach close combat. Even weakened with Song of Discord, they have the edge over the soldiers

>>47542258
>>47542232

>That would also work, yes.

>>47542298
Only 4 attackers are here? Did Web point out the other 8?

>>47542325

>They were too distant to be caught in the radius of the spell. However, that does mean that they're too far away to be any kind of danger.

>>47542354
Hmm alright. I don't leaving those 8 as an unknown but pull the trigger on the Lapis plan. We can always retreat if we need to.

>>47542354
Can we keep Web on when we are chasing Ascetic. In case of any surprises.

>>47542499

>Yes, that would be possible.
>Sorry for the slow response. I've got something of a bad headache, and it's slowing me down a little. The next update is almost ready.

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As the first cracks of rifle fire begin to reach your ears, you crush down the tide of anger rising within you. It becomes a cold thing, a cruel thing. Tearing your sword out of the ground – the fallen assassin screams as the blade leaves his body – you take a single step back and swing, beheading the defeated man in a single slash. Leaving his body, you rush back towards the field of battle, flicking blood from your weapons as you go.

The situation, as you arrive, is grim. A scattering of bodies – some reduced to pieces – lie upon the darkened earth, and the two surviving berserkers seem intent on adding to the toll of the dead, even as the soldiers stab and slash at them. Murmur's magic has slowed them, leaving them clumsy and vulnerable, but they still lash out with terrible strength. In the midst of the fighting, you see a flash of white as the moonlight falls upon Ishida's garb. She stands between the Emperor's carriage – Miura's carriage, really – and the assassins, her silver blade licking out whenever one stumbles towards her.

Calling upon the power Lapis granted you, you draw breath and howl out an order to those reeling assassins. Find their master, you cry, track him to the furthest corners of the land. Hunt him down, and kill him! Do not stop, not until the Ascetic is dead!

The magic burns your throat as if it was fire, but the words take effect in an instant. The assassins break away from the soldiers they duel with and race off towards the forest. With the tenuous connections that bind them growing further and further away, you know that you'll lose track of them soon – unless you give chase. But then, that would leave the Emperor here, guarded only by the remains of his soldiers.

>Pursue the Ascetic
>Remain here and secure the area
>Other

>>47542581
>Pursue the Ascetic

>>47542581
>>Pursue the Ascetic
While I do want to protect Sho, we've shown too many of our cards to the Ascetic. We need to gut him now.

>>47542581
Fuck, alright. Web said there are no other Berserkers in a long range, we tipped our hand to Ascetic, and we mitigated the damage to the convoy.

We are going to need to kill him now.
>Pursue the Ascetic
Tell Ishida what we are doing then go.

>Ah, okay. Looks like we're chasing after him. Could I get a D100, then, aiming to beat 60/80?
>Spell cards will NOT apply to this roll, and I'll take the highest of the first three rolls.

Rolled 19 (1d100)

>>47542786
Not even traverse?

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Rolled 51 (1d100)

>>47542786
Fuck we are totally going to lose him aren't we?

Rolled 43 (1d100)

>>47542786

Rolled 49 (1d100)

>>47542786
Here comes the Clutch?

Gah goddamnit. Now I am second guessing my decision to Song of Discord. I mean it kept the convoy safe and saved some soldier, but now he knows.

Though maybe he doesn't actually know it came from us or what caused it.

Rolled 68 (1d100)

Just for shit and giggles see that 70+

>>47542893
Congrats. 60+, but that would have done something.

You've shown your hand already, revealing yourself and your secrets to the Ascetic. He can't be allowed to live now – if he survives the night, he'll never stop hunting you.

And so, you'll hunt him first.

Looking back, you lock eyes with Ishida and call out to her. You're leaving the situation here with her, you call, the Emperor is in her care. Without waiting for her reply, you turn and follow the berserkers, their faltering, tenuous connections, into the dark forest. Their loyalty, the simple fanaticism of it, burns in your mind, guiding you onwards towards the Ascetic's retreating presence. With those two guiding you along, he's like a beacon, a lighthouse to your widened senses.

You're sprinting through the forest when the first stab of pain hits you like a lightning bolt, slamming through your mind. A split second later, one of those trails, one of your subverted assassins, vanishes. Like a thread cut short, the tie of loyalty is severed, never to be restored. Stumbling, you make it a few more paces before you spot the assassin's body. His head is twisted savagely around, his next shattered. The sight of that body causes you to falter, the echo of his death still ringing through your head as the second connection is sundered, cleaved away with another of those death cries.

This second knife, buried in your vulnerable thoughts, causes you to drop to the forest floor. Just as Panoptes' magic brought you to the edge of sickness back at Kurasu's party, so does it strike you now. By the time you've risen to your feet, the last traces of the Ascetic's trail have faded from your mind.

Bitterly, you make your way back to the convoy. When the time came to kill his own men, once they had outlived their usefulness, he hadn't even hesitated. Good men? Chosen ones? They were never anything of the sort.

They were just weapons, tools to be cast aside at the first failing.

[1/2]

>>47542945

When you return, dispirited, to the outpost, Ishida is waiting for you. Her face is grim, but it lightens somewhat when she recognises you. She listens in silence as you explain what happened, that faint glimmer of hope fading from her face. Then, when you're finished, she claps you on the shoulder.

“We'll get another chance,” she tells you, with a kind of forced levity, “Don't worry about it. We survived this time, and next time won't be any different. Right now, though, I think we've got another problem.”

You're about to ask what it is, but then you hear the raised, angry voices. In the distance, with the lingering troops being very careful not to listen in, Ra and Sho are having a violent argument. It's not hard to guess what it's about, but you approach anyway.

“Our forces have been cut to almost half,” Ra insists, his voice tight with anger and frustration, “We simply do not have the strength to fight back another attack, especially if our enemy chooses to use his full strength.”

“We are NOT stopping,” Sho snaps back, genuine anger flashing though his eyes, “I refuse to submit, to admit defeat. These... savages will not turn me back.”

“Ira,” Ra says as he notices you, “Inform the Emperor of the reality of our situation. We should return to the capital and reconsider. Once we have fresh troops, we can consider making another attempt.”

“I was under the impression that we had reinforcements waiting,” Sho remarks, a sly note entering his voice, “In the Dragon's Head – closer than the capital, wouldn't you say?”

Ra doesn't reply to that, his lips pressed into a tight line.

>Ra's right, this is a fool's errand
>Sho has a point. We can't let the Ascetic win
>We should at least make it to the Dragon's Head. We can decide our next move there
>Other

>>47543007
>>We should at least make it to the Dragon's Head. We can decide our next move there.
>If was the Ascetic I'd expect us to try and turn back. Hopefully my missive to the Nameless Temple was received and help will come.

>>47543007
>>We should at least make it to the Dragon's Head. We can decide our next move there

>>47543007
>We should at least make it to the Dragon's Head. We can decide our next move there

We can even grumble about people ruining our nice outing like old men ought to do

>>47543007
>>47543007
>These... savages will not turn me back.
Don't call them savages, they're the future YOU chose, when you put in motion for the railroad.
Even if it's not true, Ira deserves to bring the heat to the kid and this is an occasion

>>47543007
>We should at least make it to the Dragon's Head. We can decide our next move there
He's right, it is closer. Remember though that this was only a third of his forces. He has eight more of those assassins left.

>>47543075
Actually those men were deserted soldiers according to Soma. Nothing really to do with the railroad.

>>47543075
oh shit, pull an Silent Hill, "do they look like savages to you? They're merely what happens when you let the strongs rules without thinking it through"

>>47543075
No just say "This is what happens when men steal the power Gods."

>>47543102
Like I said, even if it's a lie we can use this to rub his nose into it.

>>47543183
It was still born from how the military has been ruling over people and Sho letting that happen/disrespect for how his people have been living up until now when it comes to the gods/tradition.

Sorcery is what specially Ascetic turned to because of that. Or maybe because he was always a sociopathic asshole who desires power and chaos and the cult was just an excuse.

>>47543200
As long as extrapolate on the whole problem. It's not just how the railroad was handled, that's only one part of it.

Sho's right about one thing, you point out, there should be reinforcements waiting at the Dragon's Head. You should focus on reaching the town before you decide your next move. It's possible that the Ascetic plans for you all to turn back, you add, and he might have the rest of his forces waiting to attack under the cover of darkness.

“Remind me, Ira,” Ra asks quietly, “How many of these men are left?”

Eight, you reply, eight more of those... things.

“What were they?” Sho speaks up suddenly, glancing across at the corpse laid out. It's dark with blood, but several piercings twinkle in the meagre light. Not piercings at all, you realise, but the small blades of several throwing knives. Ishida's doing, you suspect. “These savages, have you ever seen the like?”

They're not savages, you tell Sho with a sudden anger, these are simply the end of a long and bloody road – a road towards a world ruled by the strong. A world where men feast on the gods, on their power, and use that strength to tear down all those who stand against them. It's the road that the Ascetic is trying to drag the land down, but Sho started the land on that road. His railroad, his blind devotion to its construction, is what started these “savages” down their path. The Ascetic made them beasts, you snap, but Sho made the Ascetic what he is.

In the silence that follows, you let out a single scornful laugh. Think about it, you tell the Emperor, you've all got a long road ahead of you. A long road before you reach the Dragon's Head.

The sooner you get moving, you add bitterly, the better.

>I think I'll leave things here for tonight, I'm feeling a little unwell. Next thread on Friday, and I hope to stick around for a while in case of any questions.

>>47543275
Thanks for running Moloch.

Were we too hasty? The moment you said there was only 4 of the assassins here was the moment I think I realized we might have messed up. There was no way Ascetic was going to die this thread until we fought all of his dudes unless we rolled really really well. Can't be that easy, etc.

>>47543337
I thought all 12 of them were out there when I said use Discord, to try and catch them all. That's what seemed like with the warcrys.

>>47543337

I wouldn't necessarily say we were too hasty - when you get attacked, you've got to treat it like the real thing. Still, the Ascetic never intended to be an active part of this attack. This was largely a test, an attempt to wear down the Emperor's defenses and to see if there were any surprises waiting.

At the very least though, he's going to be a lot more careful from now on!

>>47543427
So does Ascetic know actually where the Song came from? Does he know it's from Ira or does he just know something in the convoy did something?

>>47543275
I think we finaly reached Sho with that last explanation, heavy handed for sure but damned if this isn't the kind of shit he wanted us to talk about.

>>47543275
So what was Sho's reaction?

>>47543499
>>47543536

It definitely made an impact on him - the fact that he was speechless really shows how hard it hit! When the palace was attacked, Sho was still kept pretty isolated. Here, he was right in the middle of things. For all his brash behaviour, it hit him hard. Something for him to think about, I reckon.

>>47543470

He was able to work out that there was magic at work, but he didn't trace it straight back to Ira. That said, it's only a matter of time - in a group of soldiers, the man without a uniform is probably something special.

Can't wait for Hiro to express his approval on the dressing down we just gave Sho.

>>47543576
What about Ra, Ishida and the rest? How did they react at the declaration. I can only guess Ishida's mentally slowclapping and Ra must be a bit proud of Ira for seizing the moment

>>47543589
Isn't Hiro the guy that's basically Sho's puppy dog? Where he has absolute loyalty? Wouldn't he disapprove of us 'daring' to talk to Sho that way?

>>47543576
So on a scale of 1-10 1 been annoyed 10 being freaked the fuck out, how badly did we flummox up the ascetic's plans?

>>47543703
I think it's better to do it step by step.
A rating for losing 4 'serkers.
A rating for having some turning on him.
A rating for coming to the conclusion someone's in on his shit.

>>47543686
Kinda yeah, but for him strengh is big, being able to hold one's ground in front of something/someone more powerful is something he respect a lot

>>47543656

I think Ishida would cheer for anything that involved Sho getting told off. Still, she's smart enough to keep that well concealed. Ra, however, is pretty pleased. This might be the moment that convinces Sho to start taking a bit of responsibility for his actions, and Ira was probably the best person to deliver the message.
As for the regular soldiers? They saw nothing, they heard nothing, they remember nothing. Far safer that way.

>>47543686

Hirohito is very loyal to the Emperor, but he isn't beyond believing that Sho could do with being a bit more mature or responsible. If he'd been around, he probably would have approved of the speech. That said, he'd likely be on hand to add his own "opinions" to it.

>>47543703
>>47543762

3/10 - the assassins were always disposable assets, so their loss isn't a particular problem
6/10 - on the other hand, they had NO RIGHT to turn on him like that. Those filthy beasts should know their place!
5/10 - having some real opposition isn't ideal, but he welcomes the challenge. Until he knows more about what he's up against, though, he won't be happy about things.

>>47543801
So he doesn't know exactly why they came after him?

>>47543801
>3/10
>6/10
>5/10

This is pretty good when you think about it, we just reacted to the ambush, now if we could work something real good with Ra/Ishida/Hiro and the Wanderers we could throw him off his game quite a bit if he doesn't go into overdrive trying to cook up a plan worthy of a Shadowrun dragon

>>47543861
We should keep him guessing. Like if he probes us with another ambush we don't use Song of Discord, but subtly use Veragi's dagger.

Then he'll wonder why he isn't hearing anything yet his sorcery still isn't working.

>>47543847

Not really. For the most part, though, his assassins were experiments. Some irregular results were to be expected, especially under stressful situations. Throw magic into the mix, and anything could have happened to them.

He might be able to start putting things together quickly, though, if we start to rely on the same tricks. >>47543897 has the right of it.

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>>47543801
>Far safer that way.

>>47543916
So we probably keep Lapis's card in the holster until he completely commits. Make him think it was just his experiments going haywire.

Best result is if he attacks alongside his assassins. Turn them, get him to kill them.

>>47543916
Is Miura alright? She really can't go anywhere nice huh?

>>47543926

Hey, why make waves, right?

>>47543970

That's certainly a good place to start. Since the Ascetic doesn't know what kind of tricks Ira has left in store, he can only plan for the things he's seen. Meanwhile, we can shut down most of his powers beyond just casting "fist."

>>47544041

I've noticed that. It's not something I deliberately plan though - I guess she's just unlucky that way! As for how she feels, well, the attack scared her very deeply. Once she's back in civilization, I wager she'll be feeling a little better though.

>>47544094
anyone see us solo the berserker with apparent ease?

>>47544144
I don't think anyone realized we were attacked it was so quick. They also had their own problems right after our fight started.

>>47544144

Unfortunately not! We were pretty tucked away, and the rest of the attack kicked off at about the same time. Still, I reckon they'd believe us if we told them!

I think the next attack should be the time for Ra and Ishida to shine, he will look for a Wanderer and he won't pay much attention to a regular bodyguard, not saying she should go toe to toe with him but blindsiding him by being the the thief that enter through the front door while he's busy watching the backdoor. Ra could plan so all our forces can work without much trouble

>>47544094
How did Mentor, Tawn, Soma, Howa, Koa, and Aya react to the update we went them? Mentor's thoughts on Ascetic and Kala?

>>47544200
Can we burn the corpses before leaving or something? I don't think it'd wise to left the bodies somewhere he can recover them easily

>>47544234
Yeah...we've seen what he does to corpses.

>>47544201
We could also throw on a uniform and shave. Also use less overt magic like Wrath and such.

>>47544232
Dunno why, I see the Mentor tickled pink by the way Ira dealt with Kala

>>47544264
>a uniform and shave.
I think we'd need a bit more than that, the eyepatch is quite a bit...

>>47544338
Well he didn't see Ira specifically yet so tossing on a uniform will make us a bit more incognito. We'd probably just look like a veteran soldier at a glance.

>>47544234

That'll probably be a good idea - the Ascetic likes to try new things, and giving him raw materials is not such a great idea.

>>47544232

Aya's going to be rushing to get it into print form as soon as possible, and Koa is probably going to get dragged into helping - no great loss! For the most part, though, the report was a brief one. Everyone is glad to hear that Ira is alive, but the full details will have to wait until we return to the Nameless Temple.

>>47544268

I can understand that - Ira chose to stick with his principles, rather than accepting a bribe. A pretty respectable choice overall, I'd say.

>>47544388
how'd Howa like her letter?

>>47544388
Dragon's Head, in addition to Wanderer reinforcements, has some soldiers the last time we were there right? Could we requisition them for the convoy?

>>47544474

The Dragon's Head still has a pretty strong garrison of soldiers. With the Emperor's authority, we could definitely take them along to get us back to full strength.

>>47544467

That was a more involved letter - plenty of details. She's proud of Ira in much the same way as the Mentor was, for making a difficult choice and coming out on top. She'll be glad to see him again, though, that's for sure!

>>47544526
So how is Murasa doing after her 'Going North with Ira' tour of duty?

>>47544627

She's taking some well-deserved rest, which is another way of saying she's been sent back to her prison until the next time Ra needs a captain. Still, it's not too bad - after spending time with Ira, people tend to appreciate a nice rest!

>>47544691
Ira is nothing if not proactive. Actually the same can be said about all your quest's MCs.

>>47544742

Well, I think one of the main attributes a protagonist - in any kind of story - needs is to be proactive. They're the one driving the plot, after all!
Still, it's quite fun to write a character who just goes out and FIXES things.

>>47544807
>>47544807
Think it's enven more fun because Ira goes with this "I'm gettin' too old for this shit" and when people call him on that he replies with "what? Fuck no, I still got some left in the tank!"

>>47544807
You'd be surprised how many quests don't do that.

>Still, it's quite fun to write a character who just goes out and FIXES things.
Started it out fixing small villages that have issues because people are so damn superstitious they don't go talk to their regional god to fixing the whole goddamn country.

>>47544905

I always saw Ira as the kind of person who takes a perverse pleasure in calling himself an old man, only to get irritated when other people call him the same thing. Of course, that's just how I see him.

>>47544925

Hey, you've got to start somewhere, right?

>>47544968
How long is Ira going to sleep when this is all over?

>>47545030

I'd say... as long as he can, before some other important business comes up.
Maybe six hours or so. At most

>>47545030
9 months. Then something's going to keep waking him up. Cause if Howa isn't already pregnant you know she will be after this is all over. Make up for lost time, etc.

>>47545083
>Finally going to get some rest.
>"Hey Ira, there are storms over Black Rock. I think someone wants to talk to you."
>Godsdamnit.

>>47545119

And the sad thing is, I could definitely imagine it working out exactly that way!

>>47545085

Hey, why not? It can't be any more stressful than having people shoot at you all day, right?

>>47545259
>Hey, why not? It can't be any more stressful than having people shoot at you all day, right?

It's maybe more stressful and a different way. Also depends if he has a boy or girl.

On the bright side, he already has experience dealing with teenagers with all the apprentices and Sho.

>>47545313
>Also depends if he has a boy or girl.

I seriously pity the poor guy who tries to date Ira's daughter!

>>47545259
So a long long time ago Mentor said that Ira had potential to be, I think his successor or something, but he didn't anymore. What exactly did he mean by that and has the opinion changed at all?

>>47545367
I pity anyone trying to date Ira and Howa's kid regardless of gender. They're going to be trained to be a badass as a matter of course.


"How are you not falling dead from that 5 mile run?"
"I used to run 10 miles with my dad everyday."

>>47545367
Cause of Ira or his daughter? Cause you know the offspring of Howa and Ira that has been raised by them as well is going to be super strong willed.

>>47545416
Run 10 miles without tiring, check.
Able to throw a man across a room one handed, Check
Able to swing a sword faster than most can throw a punch, check.
More stubborn Than Ira and Howa, Check
Understand magic at a conceptual level before clearing the second decade, check.

>>47545390

That's something I never really expanded on at the time, and I sort of regret that. Essentially, when Ira was injured and lost most of his powers, he was a real mess for a long time afterwards. Even when he recovered, he was seen as damaged goods - a liability, in a sense. Even the Mentor, who was far kinder about the whole thing, saw the damage as permanent, ruining Ira's potential.

Suffice to say, recent events have brought about a fair change in opinion. More or less a complete reversal, in fact.

>>47545416
>>47545399

I thought of that in a "meet the parents" kind of way, but that's definitely a good point. I wouldn't want to mess with their offspring either!

>>47545487
>Understand magic at a conceptual level before clearing the second decade, check.

Miura proved the theory. All it takes is to go through the motions at a younger age and in a relatively stable environment.

>>47545498
Isn't the reason it takes so long for people to learn magic because apprentices usually came from bad environments and pasts?

>>47545498
>Young Ira has the potential to be great.
>"accident" happens.
>Ira "dead inside" Furyo is left and the Mentor can't do nothing but watch the trainwreck.
>Quest starts and he slowly changes into Ira "The shit I put up with" Furyo.

That about right? Gonna ends with Ira "The Mentor that was promised" Furyo?

>>47545597

That's right. Learning how to use magic isn't too dissimilar from training to be an athlete - it requires training and dedication to hone the mind/spirit into a state where it can grasp magic. Most apprentices are like people with great athletic potential, but unfit bodies or bad attitudes, to extend the metaphor.
At least, that's the best way I've thought of explaining it. I'm not so great at putting some things into words.

>>47545613

That's about right, but I can't guarantee how Ira will end up. He might fall at the final hurdle!

>>47545681
What god stole Ira's powers? It was a big one right?

>>47545681
Question Is Howa still in shape from her wanderer training?

>>47545767

Although it wasn't known at the time, it was actually an abomination born of sorcery, one created to be cunning rather than openly monstrous. It consumed a fairly minor god - the kind of local deity that is incredibly common - and took its place. Not the first time something like that has happened, actually!

>>47545785

Physically, she's still relatively fit. Even with a missing leg, she does her best to stay in shape. She won't be winning any races, though, for obvious reasons. Mentally, she's as sharp as ever - probably more than most, in fact.

>>47545869
>Not the first time something like that has happened, actually!
Like when Ira was a kid?


>Physically, she's still relatively fit.
Good, if she's still in shape it will make carrying the kid(s) and childbirth easier. So when is Selene going to ring up Nodens and Titanos about their kids causing a ruckus in the future?

>>47545913
>Implying this isn't all Selene's master plan.

I bet she was gunning for this timeline/future, but the only way to do that was give Sho and Seer their fucked up 'prophecies' to induce the events that led us to this point.

>>47545913
>Like when Ira was a kid?

Exactly so!

>So when is Selene going to ring up Nodens and Titanos about their kids causing a ruckus in the future?
I don't know, but I'm not sure that Selene has a very good track record with making prophecies about children. It might be safer if she keeps her opinions to herself!

>>47545965
>It might be safer if she keeps her opinions to herself!

has that do date ever stopped her before? She's kinda compelled to share from what you said.

>>47545869
Okay so we've seen Howa give some of that cold anger to Aya back before her and Ira hooked up because Aya got to spend time with him and generally be another woman in his life.

How would she react to Murasa who does kind of like Ira and has thrown out some flirts?

>>47545991

Well, that's true. Personally, I'm of the belief that prophecies are nothing but trouble. If something bad is going to happen, and there's no way to avoid it, I'd rather not know about it!

>>47546016

I think it's a very good thing that Howa and Murasa travel in very different circles, let's leave it at that!

>>47545991
>>47546115
I can totally see a Selene priestess coming up to the Nameless Temple with a prophesy about Ira's kids.

And Ira takes it and tosses into a nearby fire without giving it a glance.

Hmm. I wasn't surprised that Ascetic only sent 4 to test the waters and wear the Emperors forces down, but I didn't expect him to back off like that.

Maybe we should've been in the scouting party after all.