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>>1978591
I actually need to step out a bit - but it'll allot time for people to actually figure out I'm here. If we wanted to decide the permanent home of the old notepad, that'd be an excellent idea - I know the doc is here, but I'm not sure what is and isn't out of date:

https://docs.google.com/document/d/1WZa3zrCFHpDzk0uob5eCxpuCcgL_vI3tLpFjPjvP-6Q/edit

>>1978591
> Return to the Observatory.

>>1978591
> Return to the Observatory.
Has anybody else met the forgemaster?
Also we need to message the other proprietors of the observatory to discuss upgrades. We can't be the only one investing in it.

>>1978591
>> Return to the Observatory.
>Message Ayla that we understand she is busy, but we have some lore integrated story stuff and some hinky stuff to talk about.

>>1978591
>> Return to the Observatory.
Actually, can we even get our new mats forged in here? Otherwise I'd rather we go to the city.

>>1978727
>can we even get our new mats forged in here?
yeah the smith forged our aethersteel bars from the mats we harvested

>>1978738
Yeah but I'm not sure he can work literally anything, especially something exotic like chitin.

>>1978761
He isn't called the forgemaster for no reason. Didn't he already make us armor from like silvering carapace or was that a different blacksmith?

>>1978774
He did.

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>>1978625
>>1978638
>>1978658

> Liza, Vyx, Nel, Tatsumaki, Ayla, Kengo, Florica, Vision, and Aelriss are online.
> Donnel and Smith are offline.

The four of you farmed a pretty significant heap of materials; there is almost no competition at any of the hunting grounds you’ve seen since the raid. You’re left with two rare chitin plates, since a shield will probably be highly useful when it comes to a single item, and Nel has assured you they’ll be useful to that end; eight molten fibers and a large fire essence to use as you will.

You’re heading upward, retracing your steps to the newly-mined shortcut…

> Talk about more potential guild candidates.
> Talk about something else.
> Message Liza about investing in the Observatory.
> Message Ayla about organizing a meeting.

>>1978830
> Message Liza about investing in the Observatory.
> Message Ayla about organizing a meeting.
> Talk about something else.
Tell them about our experiences with the Observers and ask their thoughts on a guild focusing on fighting them.

>>1978830
>> Message Ayla about organizing a meeting.
> Message Liza about investing in the Observatory.

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>>1978853
>>1978863

> [[ UI Messenger – Ayla ]]
> [[ Ascheritte ]]: Ayla.
> [[ Ascheritte ]]: I know you’re busy but we gotta talk lore.
> [[ Ayla ]]: I’m not leaving
> [[ Ayla ]]: I’ll key you in but if it’s really important then it’s important enough to come here
> [[ Ascheritte ]]: Alright.

> [[ UI Messenger – Liza ]]
> [[ Ascheritte ]]: Yo
> [[ Crimson Guardian Liza ]]: Hey.
> [[ Crimson Guardian Liza ]]: Need something?
> [[ Ascheritte ]]: Kind of? I was going to ask about investments in the Observatory.
> [[ Ascheritte ]]: I can’t exactly be the only one working on it.
> [[ Crimson Guardian Liza ]]: …Did Kainzo not talk to you?
> [[ Ascheritte ]]: …No.
> [[ Crimson Guardian Liza ]]: …Huh.
> [[ Crimson Guardian Liza ]]: Can you come up here? Like, now?
> [[ Ascheritte ]]: Here as in Averron City?
> [[ Crimson Guardian Liza ]]: The same. I’m just getting back in.
> [[ Ascheritte ]]: Maybe? Give me a minute.

There’s a branching path ahead.

[[ 1 ]]
> Divert to Averron City.
> Keep heading for the Observatory.

[[ 2 ]]
> Bring up the Observers to Aelriss, Nel, and Tatsumaki.
> Don’t bother.

>>1978883
> Divert to Averron City.
> Bring up the Observers to Aelriss, Nel, and Tatsumaki.
It really is weird how we never told them about the strange things that happen to us.

>>1978883
> Divert to Averron City.
> Bring up the Observers to Aelriss, Nel, and Tatsumaki.
Maybe we can let the team take care of getting our mats crafted for us if they don't wanna join us with this other stuff

>>1978883
>> Divert to Averron City.
> Bring up the Observers to Aelriss, Nel, and Tatsumaki.

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>>1978888
>>1978896
>>1978927

“What do you guys think of the idea of – like, an organization to fight the Observers?” You ask.

“The whats?” Aelriss asks, looking over quizzically.

“The shadow monsters that are popping out all over the place? The ones that corrupted the Earthsea, and the old world?” You tilt your head when you look back at her. “Have you not heard the voices?”

“…Ashe, you are legit scaring me.” Nel says.

“They’re a big deal!” You groan. “Freya and I fought one down at the Calamity Rift – it had tons of health, said all sorts of weird stuff, cursed all my gear…”

“Don’t get me wrong, Ashe. It sounds worthwhile. I just have no idea what you’re talking about.” Aelriss says.

Tatsumaki nods. They really haven’t encountered a single one. "Whatever," You say, "I'll explain better later, alright?"

“Where are you heading?” Ael continues, folding her arms as you split off the path.

“Got business up in the city. We’ll catch up, yeah?” You ask.

“Yep.” Aelriss nods. “Tats and I are gonna have all the fun. C’mon, girl…”

The city is as you remember; you were here not long ago, but this time you’re here alone.

> Head to the Crimson Guardians’ guild hall.
> Head to the Writ Keepers’ guild hall.
> Other. (Write-in.)

>>1979006
> Head to the Crimson Guardians’ guild hall.
She seems to be in a bit more of a rush

>>1979006
> Head to the Writ Keepers’ guild hall.
Ayla is second best girl
Aelriss is first

>>1979006
> Head to the Crimson Guardians’ guild hall.

>>1979006
>> Head to the Crimson Guardians’ guild hall.

So I just collected all the relevant lore related stuff from the archives and put it into this pastebin so we can discuss it and brainstorm. It seems pretty long at first but it's broken into different chunks so just find something you're interested in and give you two cents if you feel like it. At least it's easier than scouring the archives like I just did.

https://pastebin.com/39k8D91y

>>1979006
>Head to the Crimson Guardians’ guild hall.
Seemed more urgent.

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>>1979014
>>1979019
>>1979032
>>1979122
You navigate to the guild square and find the opulent barracks waiting for you opposite the fountain. Various players are talking and lingering about – mostly Identified, this time. The Guardians’ hall looks like it might be bigger. It’s probably just in your head, but there’s definitely more flags.

> [[ Crimson Guardians – Guild Hall ]]
> [[ Guild Leader: Liza ]]
> [[ Guild Officers: Kainzo, Mendicant, Florica ]]
> [[ “ Glory Is Forever ” ]]

There isn’t a legionnaire waiting for you at the door this time; rather, you just seem to have been given authentication to enter. You cross the threshold into the strangely-comforting space. There’s a loud conversation in the other room, and you invite yourself in, doing your best to look like you belong here as you meander past the training area.

“There’s nothing more I can say to you on the subject.” Florica says, holding her hefty tome close to her chest. Liza and the officers are seated at a large table beneath a map of Averron on a flat-panel digital display; various machinery decorates the room, looking like a bit of a server farm. “The seal, though unlike artifice in its nature, is secure as can be. It is not permanent, but is doubly redundant.”

“I’ve heard you. I just can’t believe you’re so certain.” Liza responds from the head of the table. “She isn’t Anaximander, but that doesn’t mean she can be trusted.”

“She is not to be underestimated. Her capacity is akin to mine, truly – her ability is spoken of in the depths of the Diabolique.” Florica responds. “Thus, if you do not trust her skills without some arbitrary proof, you’ve no reason to trust mine.”

“That’s completely absurd, and you know it.” Liza rolls her eyes. “Even if she’s truly done us and the rest of the city a favor today – you don’t even know her. Standing up for her is a waste of your energy. Especially when Freakshow continues to invite controversy into Averron.”

“We stand for the players of Averron.” Kainzo says. “Those who’d sabotage us are not included.”

> [[ Continued ]]

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>>1979182

“I’m just surprised we’re still taking trustable information out of a book called the Diabolique.” Mendicant shakes his head and sighs.

Liza laughs. “You mean to tell me your trust has started to waver as well?”

“’Course not, Liza. I’m just like you. I don’t trust anything for no reason.” Mendicant nods. “I trust y’all, since we’re a team. I trust the Alliance leaders, more or less, ‘cause they’re chill – even if Sven’s wife is a little bit of an ass sometimes. I even trust this nerd,” He says, pointing to you as you enter, and punctuating the phrase by pointing to Liza: “Because this nerd says to.”

“Ascheritte.” Liza makes a mocking expression toward Mendicant, which softens promptly as she nods firmly to acknowledge your presence; Kainzo kicks his feet up and turns away, arms folded. “I didn’t hear you enter.”

“You’re talking about Freya?” You ask.

“You were there with her in the Rift.” Liza says, and Florica leans toward you, looking interested. “Do you trust her?”

> “She’s done only good by me.”
> “Not completely – she’s a fire-starter, but she has done us a favor.”
> “Not in the slightest; I know she’s just waiting for her moment.”
> “Not what I’m here to talk about.” Move on to the matter of the Observatory.

>>1979121
And I forgot our recent exchange with Kjorikos. Fuck.

“How quickly you condemn me to death given the resources you’ve spent to preserve my memory.” He folds his arms, taking a step through the door towards you. “For devoting myself to the past, I was called a heretic. I thought you would learn from me. No; we are kindred, for you, in your practice, belike my mirror image.”

“Do you know a way to bring back the Nameless, then?” You note a hint of urgency in your own voice. “The word ‘einherjar’; does it mean anything to you?”

“All that matters is the price you’re willing to pay.” Kjorikos responds. “Reach the surface, foremost, and you’ll find what you seek. Just bear in mind it’s not the paradise it was in my day.”

“The Identifiers – what are they, really?” You ask. “And the Observers? If you know what I’ve been doing, you know about them too – I fought one with your memory.”

“Consider them a boon from the Celestials. You’re their latest effort, after they disavowed us. I’d tell you not to bother trying to reverse-engineer their technology, but precise instructions are completely wasted upon the likes of you.” At this, he gives a bit of a laugh. “The entities whom have now deemed you personally worthy of destruction – the Observers, as you now know them – are the same ones who once grew powerful enough to subjugate gods. They are the ones who brought destruction to the world, and now watch all that is; condemning the Earthsea to ruin was merely one of their momentary whims. The Celestials are never without their pride – but even now, they find themselves backed against the wall courtesy of these fiends. You’ll soon find we are all on borrowed time.”

Your fingers twitch a bit. A spark of violet lightning runs down your arm.

“We’ll be in touch, Ascheritte.” Kjorikos says. “I see a piece of myself in you. I look forward to seeing what becomes of it.”

>>1979188
>Something is up with her. Could be nothing ,could be everything. I don't know her or her motives. I do know she did save Us all from getting absolutely over run by the Exiles and values her freedom highly. She's earned more than a fair shake by my estimation, doesn't mean I'm not watching her like a hawk.

>>1979188
> “Not completely – she’s a fire-starter, but she has done us a favor.”
Tell them about what we witnessed as she closed the seal. Then ask about this Diabolique book.

>>1979188
> “Not completely – she’s a fire-starter, but she has done us a favor.”
>>1979121
Not the autist we deserve but the one we need right now. I'll check it out.

>>1979188
> “She’s done only good by me.”
Everyone deserves to be trusted until they prove otherwise.

>>1979188
>> “Not completely – she’s a fire-starter, but she has done us a favor.”
>>1979208
This too.

>>1979121
I'm gonna start giving my own take on each category. Sorry if I'm being annoying everyone.

Earthsea Lore:

The Observers drove everyone underground and then punished the Earthsea because society as a whole was becoming too powerful. They used the King of the Earthsea as a vessel (similarly to how Cidren seemed to have an Observer or at least one of their Guardians inside of him)

After everyone was driven underground the Earthsea served as a focal point for everyone to meet up and make progress. The Observers got pissed again and then sealed the Earthsea to split all the different cities and slow their progress toward returning to the surface again.

The king went kinda crazy and cast out a shitload of his people, creating the earthsea exiles. Some of those went on to become troglodytes while others became beasts like the araneids. The king’s closest followers (such as Cidren) were empowered by the observers to help keep the humans entombed beneath the surface.

Kjorikos once lived in the Earthsea but managed to escape on his own terms. He was never involved with the Observers like other precursors are.

>>1979284
What even is the Earthsea meant to be?

>>1979297
>Managing to twist your vision downward, you navigate toward an older, more primitive place: a city, or an enormous castle grounds, shaped from stone, built about bridges that cross a massive subterranean bed of water. All paths lead to the center, such that from directly above, it resembles the rune you’ve seen on the walls of the magma chamber and on the exile’s brand.
I think it's a massive city built over an aquifer.

>>1979188
>Not completely – she’s a fire-starter, but she has done us a favor.”

>>1979188
> “She’s done only good by me.”
>"Though apparently spiders hate me now"

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>>1979318
>>1979273
>>1979220
>>1979208

“Not completely,” You respond. Everyone deserves the benefit of the doubt, you think, but Freya doesn’t at all seem like the type that has no agenda of her own. “I know she’s done us all a favor when it comes to the Exiles – but that’s not to say she’s not up to something, or maybe she’s not. I’m keeping an eye on her, anyway.”

The conversation stalls for an instant as Liza and Florica look between one another, as if they each expected a different answer.

“What’s this Diabolique you’re talking about?” You ask. Your eye catches Florica, who taps on the back of her book – a Celestial Artifact, you know – with a manicured, crimson-painted fingernail to indicate it to you. You cock an eyebrow as you look over it, almost losing yourself in the twisted, ancient symbols on the cover. It resembles the old script; you know not what it means, but feel instinctively that what it represents is offensive to your nature. “The Arcana,” You recall. “Diabolique? Your spellbook.”

“It contains the roots of this world.” Florica says. “Arts different in their nature from those of any artificer.”

“You can read that?” You ask.

“Somewhat.” Florica responds. “I am learning.”

“Right, right.” Liza shakes her head to clear her thoughts. “What was it you wanted to talk about, Ashe?”

“The Observatory, remember? I’ve been waiting to hear from the other proprietors or their organizations about investing.” You say. “I put a couple Gems in myself, but like I said, I can’t be the only one.”

“Well, we arranged a deal quite some time ago – our funds have been organized, as have those of the Writ Keepers, and we’re waiting now for the Disposable Heroes to come through with their contribution. When I pondered the possibilities, I thought it best to accord the requisite amount to simultaneously construct a pair of Advent Gates for faster travel; then, I told Kainzo – being the proprietor – to defer to you,” Liza says. “Assuming that your experience of Averron would inform the most beneficial overall decision as to how the Gems should be spent. This was a while ago, but apparently you weren’t contacted?” She looks to Kainzo.

Kainzo looks dismissively at a holographic projection from his Identifier – then over it, glancing cynically at you. “Forgive me, Liza. I did so via message; perhaps I spelled his name incorrectly.”

Liza looks askance at the officer before turning back to you. “Well, get in contact. Ascheritte, does this sound reasonable?"

> “Sounds perfect.”
> “We should wait until we can construct a gate in a useful location deeper underground.”
> “The Observatory needs defenses foremost.”
> “We need a way to take in more money.”
> “We need new NPCs and facilities instead.”

>>1979437
> “We should wait until we can construct a gate in a useful location deeper underground.”
I'd like to organize an expedition to Telthiss' Claw with you guys. It'd be a good stronghold to keep if we plan to attack the Earthsea.

>>1979437
It's always seemed easy enough to get to the Observatory from Averron City. Does it take a long time or what?

I'm torn. On the one hand a teleport gate isn't so necessary when the place is this close and investing in other things could be more fun.

On the other, being able to teleport between the two makes it far more feasible for the guilds to maintain both locations and defend them and so on.

>>1979437
>Sounds like an idea, unless anyone else has another key area on hand that might have an altar we could expand into.

>>1979450
>It'd be a good stronghold to keep if we plan to attack the Earthsea.
We have literally no chance at that if the Exiles nearly tabled us.

>>1979437
> “The Observatory needs defenses foremost.”
Yeah an advent gate would be more useful to bypass the perilous trek to Telthiss. But right now the city has a guard and the Observatory has nothing so we should change that.

>>1979497
We took a lot of casualties but we killed a lot of enemies. And those that remain are all stronger for it. The Earthsea seems like the best place to claim if we want to meet the other communities in order to make real progress toward reaching the surface.

>>1979511
We were patently going to get overwhelmed without Freya's sealing it. Assuming the exile swarm was a fraction of the actual population of Earthsea and they are amongst the weakest of the remnants, we are nowhere near to taking it.

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>>1979437

“It’s not a bad idea – makes it easier for the Alliance to protect and edify both locations simultaneously.” You respond, pondering.

“Right.” Liza says. “But?”

“I’m not sure. It’s probably more complicated than that. It’d be good to get some defenses down there, and we’ll need another Advent Gate even closer to the lowest branch if we’re ever going to be able to mount a reasonable journey toward the Earthsea Promenade.” You fold your arms.

Liza looks like she’s thinking, then nods. “Reasonable assessment. I don’t hold defense at the highest priority along this avenue – if travel is easier, and assuming we can keep the territory under control, we can do our best to defend it ourselves or simply devote the Guard to it as well.”

“Perhaps in case of an emergency, Liza?” Florica asks.

“Perhaps.” Liza nods. “Bear in mind we still have time to decide, or at least as long as it takes for the Disposable Heroes to chime in with their part. That’s all, Ashe – I’ll see to it that Kainzo doesn’t miss you a second time. Apologies for preferring to meet in person.”

> “Quick question.” Ask something else.
> “Florica, do you think you can craft me something else real quick?”
> “No worries.” Depart for the Writ Keepers’ guild hall.

>>1979565
> “Quick question.” Ask something else.
What do you guys know about the Observers?
> “Florica, do you think you can craft me something else real quick?”
If we have those flame defense mats.

>>1979565
> “Quick question.” Ask something else
>"Can you tone down the merger a little so that Ayla doesn't go insane please"

>>1979576
What does toning it down even mean? Either it happens or it doesn't.

>>1979565
>So I her you guys are trying to get the merger going. Why? it's going to cause a greater than ever class divide for the city, and you'll lose most of DH and WK trying it.

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>>1979565

“One thing – the merger. You’re still pushing for it, I take it?” You ask.

“Of course.” Liza nods to you. “The prospect is growing better by the minute. You should meet some of our new recruits.”

“Okay, good – but why?” You ask. “The other Alliance guilds are going to lose people, and the class divide in the city is going to get worse.”

Liza shakes her head, looking dismissively at you.

“Ascheritte, you know well the disadvantages of our current arrangement. Three disparate guilds with different goals and organizational standards? This isn’t a matter of class or subjugation; it’s an imperative to unite the capable – and those who wish to fight among them, notwithstanding my own desire to see us organize the most optimal fighting force possible – beneath a banner that stands for Averron as a whole.” She says. “The others may stand aside if they wish, but the Underground is actively attempting to destroy us. The city’s population has decreased dramatically. Without a unified force, we face extinction.”

You hesitate to respond, and Liza looks curiously at your expression. “Is it about Ayla?” She asks. “You’ve never had anything to worry about from me, Ascheritte – you should know better. I’ve been off her case since our last meeting; I’ve even made an offer to make amends, to which she neglected to respond. If she wishes now to completely derelict her position, it’s none of my business except where it pertains to our survival as a whole, but it is rather unlike her to ignore her responsibilities.”

> Depart for the Writ Keepers’ guild hall.
> Ask if Florica can craft you something.
> Ask if they know anything about Observers.
> Other. (Write-in.)

>>1979792
> Ask if Florica can craft you something.
> Ask if they know anything about Observers.

>>1979792
> Ask if they know anything about Observers.

>>1979792
>> Ask if Florica can craft you something.
>> Ask if they know anything about Observers.

>>1979792
>> Ask if they know anything about Observers.

>>1979792
It's not just her, although I am worried about her acting erratic. I'm chalking it up to stress and lack of sleep because she's afraid of missing something.
The crimson guardians are the elite guild. You're taking the best players from the other guilds with the best gear and best resources. Yes you're doing it for all the right reasons but you're leaving people out in the cold. Combined with a lot of people getting set back to square one and your reputation lots of people who don't know you are going to see it as a power move. This game breeds inequality and having one ruler with her guild above everyone else, intentional or not is going to breed hate. It's mitigated now because you're not the only game in town. Whether intentional or not, you're setting yourself up to be another Hecatel.

>>1979836
The alliance is still necessary man. We just had a huge blow to our city's collective strength and we might not be able to measure up to the other cities without unification.

>>1979907
if we're treating other cities like enemies we are doing something wrong. Regardless if she really wanted to merger she'd be using DH as the base, not CG.

>>1979923
No single guild is the base. It's gonna be ruled by a council of people from each original guild. I'm not saying it doesn't have it's drawbacks but it's not gonna be a hostile take over with Liza as supreme leader

>>1979938
>No single guild is the base.
That's the issue, It's All the CG and anyone they deem acceptable from the other two.


>I'm not saying it doesn't have it's drawbacks but it's not gonna be a hostile take over with Liza as supreme leader.
But literally every member of freakshow, the vast majority of nameless, and every from the now defunct DH and WK who didn't get the invite will see it that way.

>>1979953
Everyone from those guilds is invited though. The point of the merger is strength through unity and numbers

>>1979964
Are you sure about that? Moreover does everyone else know that? The CGs have had a massive rep loss thank to Liza's actions with Anaximander making them seem either inept, uncaring or just plain too good to help.

>>1979995
>This isn’t a matter of class or subjugation; it’s an imperative to unite the capable – and those who wish to fight among them, notwithstanding my own desire to see us organize the most optimal fighting force possible – beneath a banner that stands for Averron as a whole.”
Liza's exact words in the most recent post.

>>1980005
alright fair enough. Then they need to at least play up some Pr.

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>>1979836
>>1979907

“It’s not just her – I mean – this plan just leaves a lot of people out, even if you’ve really laxed your requirements. There are plenty who’ve been set back to square one, I know…”

“Non-issue.” Mendicant says, relaxing back with what sounds like a sigh of resignation. “Within a reasonable deree, anyway. You know when you die, if you keep on going as a Nameless, you’re not guaranteed to spawn back in Averron City, right? Obviously there’s a chance, since you can spawn here in the first place, but it could be any other city. Might not even be a city where you end up. Our population is, well.” He gives a whistle as he points dramatically downward with his thumb. “It’s probably stable for now, maybe even going back up, but have you wondered why it’s so quiet lately? Statistically, more cities are ‘not Averron’ than are ‘Averron’, so.~”

You nod, giving a sigh yourself. It makes sense, though...

“I’m just concerned. A guild has to have a leader, and having one guild with one leader standing out above the rest? It’s the kind of thing that breeds a conflict whether or not you want it to be about that.” You respond. “I’m worried you’re setting yourself up to be another Hecatel.”

“That’s a hot take.” Mendicant laughs.

Liza frowns, looking away with a pensive expression. “Maybe we need another Hecatel.”

“That’s a hot take.” Mendicant says, looking incredulously over.

“I’m serious.” The redheaded girl responds. “We’ve seen their schematics. Their weapons, their technology – everything they have outstrips us by an order of magnitude. Hecatel is some – absolute overlord monarch with a city named after her. I don’t want that for us. I don’t want to be that. But they must be doing something right, if…”

“You’re not thinking clearly.” Mendicant gives her a dismissive wave. “Rationalize?”

“I know.” Liza nods, looking affirmatively over at the officer. “More likely than their leadership is that they know something we don’t, or have something we don’t that’s vastly accelerated their development. But it’s an interesting thought, isn’t it, to consider what she must be capable of – we officers of the Alliance are only just holding on to what we have in Averron, and she’s singlehandedly kept an entire civilization under her thumb.”

“As a tyrant.” Florica muses, a mischievous smile creeping across her face. “Or a god.”

Liza scoffs, then shakes her head. “There’s been enough fighting within the walls already for us all to know that this city would never bend to the will of a tyrant, regardless of how many of us remain. So perish the thought.”

“Averron City. Rebellion HQ.” Mendicant grins. “Population: us.”

> [[ Continued ]]

>>1980134
Well that's worrying. I had a thought about Hecatel. Maybe she has an artifact that gives her a massive nobility bonus, kinda like what we might get from Last Argument.

>>1980146
Oh shit you might be right. We should try it out and see if it changes how people act around us. Her subjects seemed almost compelled to revere her.

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>>1979820
>>1979832

The conversation stalls, and you find yourself taking a seat at the table – concerned with matters of the Alliance, but also of other things. “What do you guys think about the Observers?”

“Were you extended an invitation to sit down?” Kainzo asks.

“Yes.” Liza responds, before looking back your way. “You’re full of big questions, aren’t you, Ascheritte?”

“Well, Mom always said I have an inquisitive mind.” You groan, rolling your eyes. “You know anything, or what? I can’t get the things off my back and no one else in the entire world seems to be aware they exist.”

Liza looks Florica’s way as if awaiting her answer.

“We don’t know much.” The witch nods. “I’ve been our main source of interest along those lines, and I can only research so quickly. Beyond the presence of those who possess their ‘gifts’, I can’t say much beyond the fact that they’re hard to hide from, good at going undiscovered, and don’t seem to have weaknesses.”

“Great.” You respond. “No tricks?”

“If you think about it, the Celestials supposedly had unlimited power, and the Observers conquered them.” Florica says, still smiling. “Bodes well for us, doesn’t it? Now, they merely watch – and they target people, as if they are playing a game of their own with us. Based on what, I can’t say for sure.”

“How come more info about these guys hasn’t cropped up yet? Everyone in the world playing Broken Sky Online; you’d think if there’s nothing on the in-game boards, someone would have let something slip on the Internet proper by now?” Mendicant asks, folding his arms.

“They don’t have names.” You respond. “They break the whole user interface and scramble communications.”

“They cover their tracks.” Florica says. “It’s hard to tell when someone reports an Observer sighting versus another anomaly; the term Observer isn’t even highly popular in the public lexicon. What’s more is that message board posts go missing, often, where such things are concerned. It’s strange – even discussion outside the game ends up conveniently deleted sometimes. People have suggested that there’s a very major stance against spoilers given the nature of the game, but…”

“It’s a ridiculous thought.” Liza says. “But at this point, it would hardly surprise me.”

> [[ Continued ]]

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>>1979823
>>1979800

“Florica, while I’m around – do you think you can craft me something else?” You ask.

“Depends.” Florica says. “Did my sword serve you well?”

“Most dependable I’ve ever used.” You nod. “’Till the Observers got hold of it, anyway.”

“I’m glad you put it to a purpose.” Florica nods. “I could spare a few moments, assuming all’s said here?”

“You’re dismissed. I’d like to get back into the field myself.” Liza says. Kainzo leaves without a word, though he gives Liza a respectful nod and doesn’t look at you; Mendicant, meanwhile, pats you on the shoulder on his way out. “I’ll be in touch, Ascheritte.” She continues, as she exits.

“What did you need?” Florica asks. The two of you are alone in this part of the hall for the moment.

“I’m going to be fighting in an area with a lot of fire, and I…”

> “…need to replace these plain leather boots I got stuck with.”
> “…could use some more useful gloves to measure up to the task.”
> “…was hoping you could imbue a ring with a fire essence for protection.”

>>1980158
>> “…need to replace these plain leather boots I got stuck with.”

>>1980158
> “…need to replace these plain leather boots I got stuck with.”
> “…was hoping you could imbue a ring with a fire essence for protection.”

>>1980158
>> “…could use some more useful gloves to measure up to the task.”

we need to get our silverwing boots(which are qqite nice) uncursed and Aelriss can make the rings. Plus don't want to tip our hand about the fire area.

>>1980166
I don't feel like we'll be getting anything uncursed anytime soon

>>1980161
yes this!

We're all in agreement that Florica is best girl, right?

>>1980158
> “…need to replace these plain leather boots I got stuck with.”
> “…was hoping you could imbue a ring with a fire essence for protection.”
>>1980166
We already said we're gonna be fighting in an area with a lot of fire.
>>1980177
>not Aelriss
pleb

I'm trying to remember why Kainzo hates us so much. Was it because of the fight with Kjorikos when we fucked up by going after Velika? I think Liza's respect for us is also a factor.

>>1980161
>>1980168
>>1980179
Guys she has a few moments I doubt that's enough time for two items.

>>1980179
>We already said we're gonna be fighting in an area with a lot of fire.
When?

>>1980181
the former mostly.

>>1980182
...at the end of the last post

>>1980191
Oh. Wait. Fuck sorry. Regardless why are we wanting fire resist boots when a ring is smaller and easier to switch out?

>>1980197
I don't necessarily just want fire boots. I'm hoping we can do something else with them because having mundane leather boots is a huge waste of an armor slot. Our gloves at least inflict bleeding damage on unarmored enemies if we punch them which sucks but is better than nothing.

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>>1980179
>>1980161
>>1980160

“…need to replace these plain leather boots I got stuck with after my last fight.” You produce the molten fibers, such that she can take a look. They’re thick and warm, bundled ‘round myriad squamous scraps of a leathern material that bends readily despite its hardness. “I also have a fire essence – perhaps you could imbue a ring with it, for fire protection?”

“Do you have a ring, then?” Florica asks.

You shake your head.

“That might be a good thing to accrue before asking me for one, then. You’ll need one of silver, or gold – and both of such things are so, so rare, it seems.” She says, then looks down at your boots with a bit of a frown. “If you’d part with the fire essence, though, perhaps I could replace those…”

Parting with these materials would leave you with your tempered plates and aethersteel - hopefully, enough to create a fireproof shield elsewhere.

> Give large fire essence (1/1) and molten fibers (8/8) for a new pair of boots
> “I’ll see what I can get my hands on and come back around, then. Appreciate your time.”

>>1980197
But you're right that the fire resist ring is a bigger priority, if she'll only do one thing for us I'd choose the ring.

Dammit I'm late again. Anaximander did nothing wrong

>>1980202
Do our teammates have their own materials to make their own stuff or do we have all of them for some reason?

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>>1980213
The items were distributed, yes.

>>1980202
>> Give large fire essence (1/1) and molten fibers (8/8) for a new pair of boots

Could she make fire resistance boots? We trade her the essences and fibers of them.

>>1980202
>> “I’ll see what I can get my hands on and come back around, then. Appreciate your time.”


>>1980213
They have their own.

>>1980202
Could she imbue our cloak with added fire resistance?

>>1980202
> Give large fire essence (1/1) and molten fibers (8/8) for a new pair of boots
I bet we get fire resistance and a sick falcon kick move. Honestly I'm ready to go see Ayla and then get back to the action.

>>1980228
Still need to stop at the observatory to repair our broken gear, and find a fifth for the dungeon.

>>1980235
What do we need to repair? We've got more than enough equipment to use. And we're just going to the flame area instead of a raid area so I think we'll be fine with our current group. Although maybe we can get Ayla to chill out and join us.

>>1980245
The shit we Id'd. I want last argument fixed in case Dross fucks up.

>>1980250
We need to use gems at an altar to repair last argument. Anything else is low tier and a waste of time to repair.

>>1980202
> Give large fire essence (1/1) and molten fibers (8/8) for a new pair of boots

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>>1980274
>>1980228
>>1980218

You feel as if you are watching Florica assemble a puzzle. She has tools and mundane materials at her disposal to fill in the empty space of a three-dimensional schematic that must be memorized. It takes several minutes, and halfway through feels as if she departs completely from the intended solution to imbue the product with – in addition to the essence of fire, which spills warm embers as she cradles it carefully between her fingertips – her very inspirational spark.

> * Molten Step [[ Granted by: handcrafted lavastrider boots ]] : Item can’t receive durability damage from fire. Increase standing jump height. With a short cooldown, walk briefly on and jump from lava surfaces without harm.

“I might well have discovered something new.” Florica says. “I do so cherish the chance to experiment.”

“Am I ever going to owe you for all of this?” You ask.

“I trust you’ll pay me back eventually.” The witch nods, smiling. “Your item, as promised and without error. If that’s all, I’ll be off.”

You equip the item. The boots are warm to the touch, edges of the scale-bound material glowing orange as the embers of a dying fire.

> handcrafted lavastrider boots (masterwork, worn, feet) [[ + Damage Resistance ]] [[ + Molten Step ]]

> Thank Florica and depart.
> Other. (Write-in.)

>>1980304
>>Thank Florica and depart.
We might want to check the feel of the city.

>>1980304
> Thank Florica and depart.
Fuckin sick. Nice.

>>1980304
> Thank Florica and depart.
Maybe check the trade channel for shield with fire resistance?

>>1980304
>> Thank Florica and depart.


>>1980327
Fuse the carapace with aethersteel.

>>1980304
> Thank Florica and depart.
>>1980327
We can get one made with our remaining mats bruh

Anyone willing to try fixing Last Argument before going in the dungeon?

>>1980352
Need CGs for it. Guess we could ask.

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>>1980316
>>1980326
>>1980327
>>1980330

“I appreciate this.” You respond sincerely. “I need to be going myself.”

“Until so long.” Florica says. She stands, and meanders off into the darkness of the hall opposite you as you exit. The other officers are nowhere to be seen.

You exit and head over to the Writ Keepers’ humble hall. You’re authenticated here, too – hey, two for three! – which means you can just walk right in. As you do, your Identifier pings.

> [[ UI Messenger – Aelriss ]]
> [[ Aelriss ]]: Hey, Ashe?
> [[ Aelriss ]]: Do you mind if I sit this next one out?
> [[ Aelriss ]]: I don’t want to complicate things, but it’d be good if you could maybe find someone else.
> [[ Aelriss ]]: You can have my mats if you need extra stuff for the trip.

You watch your screen as you meander through the hall. There’s a boisterous conversation underway, a whole handful of people in the main room. You don’t recognize any of them; Cardus and Sulya are nowhere to be seen.

[[ 1 ]]
> “No problem. Thanks for the advance warning.”
> “You scared of a little fire?”

[[ 2 ]]
> Head up to the guild leader’s room.
> Ask if anyone’s seen Ayla.
> Other. (Write-in.)

>>1980390
>> “No problem. Thanks for the advance warning.”
>Anything Wrong Aelriss or just needing some sleep?

> Ask if anyone’s seen Ayla.
>message her.

>>1980390
>I WAS wondering if you could even give Eonia fire resistance.

> Ask if anyone’s seen Ayla.
>message her.
She hasn't been in the guild this entire time. The observers have her.

>>1980390
> “No problem. Thanks for the advance warning.”
Yeah she definitely has a fear of fire. Remember the insects and then again during the fight with Kjorikos when she freaked out about fire? Best not to bring it up.
> Head up to the guild leader’s room.
Let's message Ayla to see where she's at if she's not there.

>>1980390
> “No problem. Thanks for the advance warning.”
I wasn't even thinking about your problem with fire. Sorry about that. And sorry for not helping you out during the fight with Kjorikos. I didn't realize at the time what was going on.
> Ask if anyone’s seen Ayla.

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>>1980417
>>1980432

> [[ UI Messenger – Aelriss ]]
> [[ Ascheritte ]]: I wasn’t even thinking. Sorry about that.
> [[ Ascheritte ]]: And sorry about not helping during the fight with Kjorikos. I didn’t realize.
> [[ Aelriss ]]: It’s no problem. I’d rather not talk about it if that’s cool.
> [[ Aelriss ]]: Thanks for understanding.
> [[ Ascheritte ]]: Hey, no problem. Here I was wondering if you could even give Eunoia fire resistance.
> [[ Aelriss ]]: Pff. Definitely don’t even worry about that. Eunoia’s way tougher than me.

> [[ UI Messenger – Ayla ]]
> [[ Ascheritte ]]: I’m here. Where are you?
> [[ Ayla ]]: Downstairs.

At the bottom of the staircase down the hall, you cross the threshold into a workshop with a floor of blue tiles in a perfect grid illuminated from beneath. Ayla is lying on her back in the middle of the floor like she’s making a snow angel; she wears bracers and anklets of an unknown material with lines of light down their sides, reminiscent of the Unique Identifiers themselves. A drill half her size is spinning on a motorized torque-ring nearby, and there’s the cannibalized parts of half-built explosive devices lying all over the place. Every table and sitting space, and most of the walls, are covered in notes that look like someone’s been trying to solve upper-level calculus problems using ancient script in place of numbers; similar pages are strewn about the floor.

“What did you need?” She asks, staring at the ceiling as you enter.

> “Checking in to see if you’re alright.”
> “Like I said: here to talk lore.”
> Other. (Write-in.)

>>1980534
Here to talk about lore, check on a friend and see what genius bullshit far beyond my meathead brawler comprehension you've come up with. Made great progress on the last one, I'm already lost.

Those bracers an artifact?

>>1980534
Mostly
> “Checking in to see if you’re alright.”
But I also had some lore to discuss with you.

>>1980534
>I came for that booty.
Nah just fuckin about

> “Like I said: here to talk lore.”

>>1980534
> “Like I said: here to talk lore.”
I'd rather take her mind off of everything with lore than pester her about how she's doing. Tell her about our weird experiences with Observers including the login glitch where we fought it's guardian. And show her last argument and tell her about our suspicions concerning the nobility skill it offers and how Hecatel might be exploiting something similar to see if she knows anything about it.

Also I feel like if anybody would be understanding about our recent visit from Kjorikos it would be her. We should explain our artifact to her as well.

>>1980534
>> “Like I said: here to talk lore.”
>and observers

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>>1980599
>>1980618
>>1980551

“Here to talk lore, like I said. See what kind of genius bullshit you’ve come up with.” You say, looking around as you approach. “I'm already not following.”

“Alright,” Ayla says, turning just her head to face you with a dull look. “Talk.”

Cordial.

> Talk about Observers, mentioning the weird thing that happened when you logged in.
> Talk about Strife Memoriam, and your recent encounter with a ghost.
> Talk about the Earthsea, and the danger the outsiders represent to Averron.
> Talk about the Last Argument of Kings, and its potential relation to Hecatel.

>>1980647
> Talk about Observers, mentioning the weird thing that happened when you logged in.
> Talk about Strife Memoriam, and your recent encounter with a ghost.
> Talk about the Last Argument of Kings, and its potential relation to Hecatel.

>>1980647
>> Talk about Observers, mentioning the weird thing that happened when you logged in.
>> Talk about Strife Memoriam, and your recent encounter with a ghost.
>> Talk about Nobility, and its potential relation to Hecatel.
>Talk about Sacred Grounds, if they might interact with artifice in special ways.

>>1980659
This

>>1980647
Oh also ask if she's ever come across the word "Einherjar" in any lore.

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>>1980659
>>1980651

“I’ve been trying to gather information about the Observers, basically. Something strange happened to me when I logged in a while back.” You nod. “I was—“

Ayla springs to her feet and is upon you instantly, holding you by the lapels of your cloak. Her eyes are wide, hollowed by exhausted neurosis that seems almost—pleading?

“Tell me everything.”

> Disclose the details of your encounter and ask what she knows of the Observers.
> Disclose the details of your encounter and ask how she knows what happened to you.
> “You first.”

>>1980685
> Disclose the details of your encounter and ask what she knows of the Observers.
Oh shit.

>>1980685
> Disclose the details of your encounter and ask what she knows of the Observers.

>>1980685
>> Disclose the details of your encounter and ask what she knows of the Observers.
>> Disclose the details of your encounter and ask how she knows what happened to you.
>This explains why you've been iffy about logging in or out

>>1980685
> Disclose the details of your encounter and ask how she knows what happened to you.

>>1980685
Also tell her about how we fought the Observer or Observer's guardian after it popped out of Cidren's corpse.

>>1980685
> Disclose the details of your encounter and ask what she knows of the Observers.
> Disclose the details of your encounter and ask how she knows what happened to you.
>Pretty sure I either killed or severely fucked one up. Also it's likely Freya stole some power from them.

>>1980685
Tell her everything, including the weird stuff with strife memorium

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>>1980693
>>1980697
>>1980698
>>1980700

“It said I was in the overworld – there were no location names, and I had no communications. Everything was surrounded by acidic fog, and this thing I assume was an Observer – this man, all in black, with a white fire inside of him – sent his pet, which was as big as a building by the way, to attack me.” You respond. “I had to fight it. And there was another, in the Rift—but we knew that, right? The guardians of the Earthsea were given power by the Observers?”

“…You too, then.” Her fingernails dig into your cloak, but her grip lets up after a moment or so, expression softening. “They made you fight one of those things on your own.”

Eh. You had it under control.

“Yeah. Do you know about this?” You ask. “Why haven’t you told anyone?”

“It happened to me.” Ayla says. “Twice.”

She falls to the ground and starts to draw in charcoal on the reverse side of a stray parchment page. It looks as if she’s scribbling, at first; then the first image that takes form appears to be full of holes. Plantigrade legs terminating in savage claws of noxious fog are recreated from memory. A spot untouched by charcoal is as a white light that spills from its inner core.

“You had to fight this?” You ask, watching the creature take form before you.

Ayla shakes her head. “I couldn’t. I didn’t have a weapon – I had nothing.”

“So how did you survive?” You ask.

“It was a labyrinth.” She says, looking wide-eyed at you for a moment before she goes back to her drawing. “And I had to do—like, crypto, sort of. Like a puzzle. The first one was easy, once I figured out what was going on. The second one, I don’t even know how I managed to—If it happens again I’m not going to make it.”

Imagined in your third eye, you can almost see the labyrinth presided over by a minotaur of black flame.

Crypto, huh? You probably wouldn’t have survived that. Girl must be damn smart.

“That’s why you’ve been iffy about logging in and out – the time thing, too, of course, but…” You sigh, collecting yourself.

“Your thing.” She says. “Did it speak to you?”

“It said a bunch of nonsense – I’ll try to remember.” You respond. “What about you?”

“Same.” She nods, her voice darkening. “I know you.”

“I know you.” You manage the same, recalling the memory of Exile. You add something extra: “I live in you.” – and she recoils in shock, dropping her charcoal to the floor where it bounces limply off the minotaur’s eye.

There’s a long pause.

> [[ Continued ]]

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>>1980821

“There’s something really wrong with this game, Ashe. Isn’t there?”

You give a little half-nod. She looks at you with an expression of worry as you seat yourself beside her.

“There’s no clocks. No sun. How long do you think it’s been?—outside.”

> “Doesn’t matter, does it?”
> “Since before the raid? I bet a few minutes.”
> “An hour.”
> “Somewhere between eight and sixteen hours.”
> “…Probably a day.”

>>1980829
>> “Somewhere between eight and sixteen hours.”

>>1980829
>> “Somewhere between eight and sixteen hours.”
>Something tells me this isn't a game, not really.

>>1980829
> “Since before the raid? I bet a few minutes.”

>>1980829
> “Since before the raid? I bet a few minutes.”
My question is, I keep hearing the precursors generation is comprised of our predecessors. What do they mean by predecessors?

>>1980829
> “Since before the raid? I bet a few minutes.”
We really should mention Strife Memoriam shanenigans to her.

>>1980821
So it didn't say "I live in you" to her then. I wonder if it's referring to how it's been spread to us through our memory of Cidren or maybe our mysterious ??? skill.

So it gave us something to fight and it gave her a sort of puzzle to solve. Are they testing us based on our strengths and personality? If they just wanted to kill us they would've come at us with something we were shitty at.

>>1980912
Does Ayla not have an artifact?

>>1980915
Not that we know of.

>>1980912
>Are they testing us based on our strengths and personality?
That's what I suspect too

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>>1980844
>>1980856
>>1980862

“Since before the raid?” You ask. “I bet a few minutes.”

“But however long, it’s taken hours since then, right – in here, a day or more, easily? No way it hasn’t. And you’ve been playing second-for-second since then.” Ayla says. “I’ve been trying to keep track but there’s no good way to estimate – one to one or two, sometimes—sometimes one to twenty, or even sixty, maybe? There’s no way to tell once you’re under. Someone could cut your throat and as long as your gear was still on you wouldn’t even drop connection until your heart stopped. If they didn’t shake you out, or you didn’t log out yourself, then…”

It’s a troublesome thought. You imagine yourself lying in bed. There was a commotion outside, last time – maybe a party in your apartment block? You wonder if it’s resolved, where your roommate is, if it’s the next day or not… this distortion – could it be having a more profound effect on the lot of you?

“Do you think this Observer thing happens to other people?” You ask, for the sake of clearing your head.

“Maybe. There’d be no way to know if they didn’t survive, and I imagine it’s a pretty hard-to-believe story if it just happens to you out of the blue.” Ayla says. She brings a balled hand to her eye for a moment as if wiping away an unseen tear. “Listen—I don’t know how much longer I can expect to put up with this. If I don’t make it, I don’t know what’s going to happen. To the Observatory, or the Alliance…”

You shake your head. “Take it as it comes. You can do this until you’re about to fall apart but there’s no way to be ready. Is there?”

She frowns at all of the full parchment pages. There isn’t.

“Freya has their power too. A gift from them – received as a Celestial Artifact, perhaps, or some other way? – that resonates with their nature.” You add. “This famous bounty hunter called Canderence said it was the power of Lifedrain.”

“It’s not clear where they came from.” Ayla nods. “But they used an art that was unlike any other to drink the power of the gods. By the time they could no longer hide, the Celestials were weak, and they were strong. That must be it.”

“Whatever the case, it seems as if she’s betrayed them.”

“I’d worry about anyone who hopes to survive having drawn the ire of both the Celestials and the Observers.”

Another pause.

> [[ Continued ]]

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>>1981011

“What about my Artifact?” You ask. “It’s causing strange things to happen. You know about it, right – it preserves the memories of fallen enemies so I can use their powers in battle. Now I’m seeing ghosts, having weird visions that I’m not even sure are completely real.”

She looks like she’s had an epiphany. “It’s using you.”

“What?”

“Like… the Celestial Gems. When you see one, what does it feel like?” Ayla asks, teeth grit. Her legs are shaking and she’s rubbing her shoulders. She looks like an addict who’s afraid of dying.

“Reclaiming something important that you forgot you needed. But – better. Like,” You say. “What I’d imagine it’s like to reunite with a lost loved one.”

“It hits that same frequency for everyone, doesn’t it? But not everyone can possibly know what that feels like—in fact, you just said it’s what you imagine it’s like, didn’t you? Not everyone knows what a crawler carapace feels like – or what a dead body smells like, right, for that matter. But the game is – triggering those emotional reactions in a similar way in everyone that plays. Is it simulating them, somehow? Using the experience of others to enlighten you, like a hive-mind? Or…”

“You said it was using me?” You ask.

“Offloading.” She says. “There’s no technology in the world that could handle all of this – but how… I don’t know. It doesn’t make any sense. But it’s in your head, somehow – your real, thinking head. Or it’s doing a good job of seeming like it. The worst part about any of this is that I haven’t been able to figure out a way to test anything. Hardly matters now, though.”

Borrowed time, like Kjorikos said. You can only weather the storm so long before they tear you down. If they can’t outplay you, they’ll just drag you to wit’s end, and who even says they have to play by the rules anyway?

> “What are you going to do?”
> “Does anyone else know about this?”
> "Only as long as you think it doesn't. There's definitely no chance if you just let them win."
> Other. (Write-in.)

>>1981014
> “Does anyone else know about this?”
> "Only as long as you think it doesn't. There's definitely no chance if you just let them win."
We should seriously be co-founders of an anti-observer guild. Let's see what Ayla thinks. She's gonna be guildless soon enough. We could also focus on investigating everything wrong with the game that we've discussed here.

>>1981014
> “Does anyone else know about this?”
Let's make a guild. Find everyone we can who's seen Observers and start to solve what's really going on in this game together.

>>1981014
> “Does anyone else know about this?”
> "Only as long as you think it doesn't. There's definitely no chance if you just let them win."

>>1979565
Wait, is that a book for summoning Bill!? We have to warn everyone?

>>1981014
>write-in
By the way do you know what Nobility effect does?

>>1981014
>But we CAN tell people some things. Like how the Observer's are the root cause of the Earthsea invasion, and how they don't like the Celestials
>I've been thinking of raising some Sacred Grounds. It might provoke a response from the Observers, and if it does we can at least unite all the players against them.

>>1981097
I really don't think provoking a response from the Observers is a good idea. And if you're intentionally making Observers attack for your own ends that's really fucked up.

>>1981102
The sacred grounds is one of our only leads on finding a way to really fight the Observer. It's either we rope in everyone else, or they get caught in the crossfire uninformed.

Do you really think people will stay away if we say "please don't go to the observatory, we're about to fight some bad shit"?

Also, Ayla's on borrowed time.

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>>1981023
>>1981067
>>1981042

“Only as long as you think it doesn’t.” You respond. “There’s definitely no chance if you just let them win.”

“I’m not going to try to lose, but my chances don’t look good.” Ayla says.

“Does anyone else know about all this, Ayla?” You ask.

“You’re the only one as of now.” She responds. “I was just about to put Dorian in charge and appoint new moderators for the message boards, just in case. I’d hate to leave behind a mess.”

You sigh as you look around the room – at Ayla, and at all of the machine parts, the scattered notes, and the drill bathed in soft blue light from the workshop floor. You imagine what lies above, and what lies below, and feel as if you are missing something – and as if you are being watched.

Done for tonight. Thanks for the replies.

>>1981108
Still on really shaky ethical grounds there.

>>1981109
Thanks for running man. This quest is the shit. I always enjoy playing the quest and even just discussing it.

>>1981111
I don't see it as much different from Earthsea. Whether we start it or not doesn't really matter when we also roped everyone in through an "event".

>>1981109
Thanks for running. Any chance of another session in this thread?

>>1981109
[x] Kill Ayla and take all her CGs

>>1981150
Did you just suggest a way to get more CGs!? I SUPPORT THIS ENDEAVOR!

>>1981150
>only got 1
>She even spread out her CGs incase she dies

>>1980534
What happaned?
>And sorry about not helping during the fight with Kjorikos. I didn’t realize.

I can't remember what this is referring to

>>1981481
She got trapped in a circle of fire

Well, the sinister undertones have suddenly started flaring up a lot more. Really hope we don't just have Ayla log out and then never back in again some day.

Might be best to just shelve guild machinations for other people to worry about and focus on powerlevelling a handful of us in a bid to become strong enough to survive logins.

>>1981557
To be fair logging out and never coming back to BSO is probably the best for everyone.

>>1982219
But how will they experience the joys of adventure then?

>>1982219
>inb4 CG greed transfers over to the real world and you can't resist logging back in

>inb4 the Observers themselves cross over

>inb4 the real world is just another simulation and we're in the double Matrix

>>1981557
I still like the anti-observer guild idea. We need to get the word out about them and find others willing to focus on fighting them.

>>1982219
We should definitely log out for a bit after the magma zone just to take stock of IRL stuff. Maybe look into the company that made BSO a bit. Also to gauge how crazy we've gotten.

>>1982402
But if we are gone for just 20 minutes we lose days in game! The city could be gone in that time. Gotta keep injecti- I mean playing BSO!

Ooooh shit is this still live?
Hype~

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“So, you trying to build an excavator on your own?” You ask, watching the drill slowly whirl away. “I’m surprised you managed to put something this big together without help?”

“Was – and this is still way too small. It’s not going to happen, and there’s no chance of getting a collaboration effort back together with Averron as it is.” Ayla says. “I’ve handed the project over to a tech called Baron. He’s good – just a little hard to talk to. But he’s got all my work, as well as the Hecatelia schematics and reports, which should be enough to get us as far as the Earthsea once we get a task force behind it. It’s up to him and the rest of the Alliance now, basically.”

Another pause.

“So, how do you feel?” You ask. “About starting a group or a guild to fight the Observers? Take on the real threat.”

“You can. I don’t want to get involved if I don’t know I’ll be around – and I don’t know how you’ll be able to get the word out safely.” The technician nods solemnly. “Trust me, if I knew for sure I’d make it, you’d have my support.”

“Yeah,” You respond. “I get you.”

“I’ve got stuff to take care of here until I log – see how bad everything is.” Ayla says, flashing a momentary grin. “It’s been real, Ashe.”

> Ask something else. (Write-in.)
> Leave.

>>1982962
> Ask something else. (Write-in.)
Ask if she's heard anything about the nobility effect and mention our suspicions about Hecatel using it to rule.

>>1982962
> Leave.

>BSO running consistently again
This is literally a dream come true for me

>>1982962
>Give her a hug, she seems like she could use one
>"So what's your game plan right now? You figuring out a way to counteract your login interference or something?"

>>1982977
I know right.
And to think I was about to go to bed on time.

>>1982962
>> Leave.
"Take care of yourself Ayla."

>>1982962
>Ask about nobility affect and if she has a ??? skill. Ours got a +1 ticked to it when we killed the Observer inside Cidren.
>Also bounces the idea of spending to get a shrine. Might let her log in and out safely.
>Alternatively she could try for an artifact that'd either give her an edge or make it easier to survive. The Observers took away our gear too but not our artifact. That made it a lot easier than it could have been otherwise. a teleporter, time manipulator or something that'd make her invisible might save her ass.
>hug the sad Genius

I feel like we should meet with Freya the next time we get a chance. Hopefully she trusts us enough to tell us about her Observer tier artifact and we'll tell her what we know. I still wanna hit that hidden area too though.

>>1983003
>she could try for an artifact
I was wondering whether those bracers and anklets Asch noticed her wearing might be an artifact already. They were described as looking similar to identifiers

Either way, yeah, she could really do with something if she still has nothing. I'd honestly be willing to [s]loan[/s]donate one or two if she didn't have enough on her right now

I wonder if we could ask the celestials for an artifact made specifically to fight the Observers

>>1983003
Oh two more things.
>Ask her if she wants to help us clear a hidden area. We found the key on some players near the breach and it leads to a fire dungeon. Might have something that could give her an edge or some juicy lore.
>Also Ask if she has ever found or seen a [relic] Item like our broken greatsword.

>>1979121
Personal Observer interactions

There's not a whole lot to go on here, but they say something about some unspecified group returning to this world and it seems like the Observers are preparing this world for their return.

>>1979121
Freya and her link to the Earthsea Seal

We've determined that Freya made some deal with the Observers to obtain her lifedrain skill which obviously pissed off the Celestial. She then proceeded to betray the Observers by closing the seal which implies that she played a role in opening it in the first place. So both the celestials and the observers hate her now which puts her in a really bad spot. My take is that we need to discuss things with her to get the whole picture. I'd even say that inviting her on this next foray into the fire area would be a good idea.

>>1979121
Telthiss

Telthiss is the queen of the araneid hivemind residing in Telthiss' claw. I speculate the the araneids are a monstrous offshoot of those exiled from the Earthsea in the distant past. We were connected to hivemind when we allowed Freya to sap araneid lifeforce to and heal us with it. Part of me suspects that her influence is what caused us to go kinda crazy around Kengo's sabre but I'm not sure exactly why she would want it so desperately.

I was wondering the other day if we could ever ally with her due to our mutual enemy in the Observers.

>>1979121
Ethereal Forgemaster

He seems to be a long-lived being who came before even our predecessors who we call the Precursors, which include the exiled Kjorikos among their ranks. He seems to be able to divine certain information in the pale flame he uses in his forge, including the enigmatic Einherjar which seems to hold the secret to renaming the nameless. Einherjar in our world is the name for the warriors of valhalla who fight, die, and feast over and over again.

That's the last of my obnoxious lore breakdown. I'm sure I'm missing a lot but I hoped to at least remind the players of some of this stuff if not start a productive discussion.

>>1983114
The seer said not until she is drained of every drop of blood will we be given fair trial in her court.

>>1983086
probably smart

>>1983077
That could be when the actual players get shunted into this world. Which is why nameless are nameless only named players will get dragged over as the nameless are useless.

>>1983121
Forgemaster is best girl and should be given all our CGs

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“One last thing, if it’s okay?” You ask. “Relics – have you heard anything about them?”

“They’re like the blessed items of the past: old items with anomalous properties. Probably not as powerful or broad in scope as Celestial Artifacts, but certainly valuable in their own right.” Ayla says. “They’re rare enough that we don’t have a whole lot of information—knowledge is at a premium right now, and people are still hoarding. Probably with justification, too. Anything that gives you a leg up on the next guy makes you a commodity.”

“I might have found one with an effect on it called Nobility. No one seems to know what it does – identifying it yielded an unknown effect.” You respond, then menu over to produce the Last Argument. The broken greatsword’s hilt is warm to the touch; it vibrates in your hand with forgotten glory, learned that its time has come once again. “I was wondering if you had any idea; I think it might be related to Hecatel’s rule – like some kind of mind-altering effect.”

“I guess it’s a possibility. As good as any, since I can’t wrap my head around how her kingdom works.” Ayla nods. “Mind tricks also aren’t well documented in this game – at least, as far as Averron’s collective knowledge goes. That’s kind of troublesome to me. People have gotten fortune teller reports about subterranean creatures with hypnotic or maddening effects, but no concrete details.”

“Haven’t heard of the effect at all, though?” You ask.

“Can’t say I have.” Ayla responds.

“Alright, thanks.” You nod. “Hey, I’m probably heading to clear a hidden area – a fire dungeon behind a secret passage. Probably has some good stuff behind it that can give you an edge…?”

“Sorry, Ashe. Like I said, I’ve got some stuff to take care of. No cheating their game, either; I’ve tried everything both times, and plan to do the same the next time it happens.” Ayla says, with a sigh of resignation.

“If you had an Artifact, though—?” You suggest.

“I do.” She responds; she subtly points to the drill, which appears to rotate exactly ninety degrees on the spot. “S’how I got that thing together. I can access my inventory without menuing and move stuff around remotely in workshop areas – lets me build to a holo-draft without help and without making any mistakes. Doesn’t matter if I’m ahead of the curve tech-wise. They took that from me too.”

“You weren’t allowed to use your Artifact?” You ask. Yours is the only reason you survived.

She shakes her head. Damn.

> [[ Continued ]]

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>>1983269

“And now you’re just trying to figure out a way to beat it or counteract the interference.” You continue.

“I’m trying to figure out anything I can.” Ayla says. “I’m logging soon. I’ll tell you if I catch anything new before then.”

Another moment of silence.

“Take care of yourself, Ayla.” You hold your arms out for an embrace, and she accepts. It’s brief, but as much comfort as you can offer.

Averron is as you left it when you return to the artificial light of the underground. You sit by the fountain alone for a moment, browsing your Identifier menu.

> Reach out to Freya.
> Look for Baron’s workshop.
> Look for another party member elsewhere.
> Contact Nel and Tatsumaki.
> Write-in.
> Log out of Broken Sky Online.

>>1983277
> Reach out to Freya.

>>1983277
> Reach out to Freya.
> Contact Nel and Tatsumaki.
Let's invite Freya to join us. Who else is online?

>>1983277
>> Reach out to Freya.
> Contact Nel and Tatsumaki.
Damn we really should have told her about the ??? skill.

>>1983286
Seconding this.

Interesting artifact she has, I can't really judge how useful that is since Asch hasn't really dipped into crafting much himself.

>>1983269
>They took that from me too.
I think I might be speedreading or it's just been awhile but who is 'they' again?

>>1983300
The Observers

So Kjorikos is stored as a memory of ours and he's aware of what we do even when it's not active. What if the Observer that's latched onto Cidrens memory can monitor our every move too?

>>1983277
> Restore the last argument of kings

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>>1983286

> Liza, Vyx, Nel, Tatsumaki, Ayla, Kengo, Florica, Vision, and Aelriss are online.
> Donnel and Smith are offline.

>>1983279
>>1983293

> [[ UI Messenger – Freya ]]
> [[ Ascheritte ]]: Yo.
> [[ Freya ]]: Decided to reach out, after all this time?
> [[ Ascheritte ]]: I got busy.
> [[ Freya ]]: It’s welcome all the same.
> [[ Freya ]]: How’ve you been?
> [[ Ascheritte ]]: Eh.
> [[ Ascheritte ]]: As of right this second I’m not really feeling the hero thing.
> [[ Freya ]]: It wears one down, I’ve found.
> [[ Freya ]]: I try to set realistic goals for myself. Perhaps you could consider the same?
> [[ Ascheritte ]]: Oh, don’t worry. It’ll come back around.
> [[ Ascheritte ]]: You free? I’m going dungeon crawling with Tats and Nel – and I think we could both stand to benefit.
> [[ Freya ]]: I’ve business as of right this second.
> [[ Freya ]]: Call it public relations. Anaximander left me with my hands full.
> [[ Freya ]]: I can’t say when I’ll be free. But I’d be glad to join you if there’s still room when I am.
> [[ Freya ]]: Ah – I hate to pry, but have you considered my offer?

> “I appreciate your concern, but chances are better than not I'm gonna stick with the solo act. I like a challenge."
> “I’m actually thinking about starting a guild dedicated to fighting the Observers. Maybe you should join me instead.”
> “Sorry. I don’t think Freakshow would look good on my resume.”

>>1983396
> Undecided
> restore the last argument of kings

>>1983396
>Thought about it, still undecided. Need to handle the observers jumping me when I log in issue first.

>>1983396
> “I’m actually thinking about starting a guild dedicated to fighting the Observers. Maybe you should join me instead.”
If not I think we'd both benefit from working together in an unofficial capacity at least

>>1983396
> “I’m actually thinking about starting a guild dedicated to fighting the Observers. Maybe you should join me instead.”

>>1983396
Also maybe mention how we know she's made enemies of both the celestials and the Observers so she stands to gain from picking a side

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>>1983406
>>1983409

> [[ UI Messenger – Freya ]]
> [[ Ascheritte ]]: I’m actually considering starting a guild of my own.
> [[ Ascheritte ]]: One dedicated to fighting the Observers.
> [[ Freya ]]: …Oh?
> [[ Freya ]]: Do tell.
> [[ Ascheritte ]]: Well, that’s about all I’ve figured out right now.
> [[ Ascheritte ]]: They won’t get off my case, and they’re giving me ‘real bad guy’ vibes.
> [[ Freya ]]: They must like you. I feel the very same way.
> [[ Ascheritte ]]: Anything weird ever happen to you on login?
> [[ Freya ]]: Beyond connection problems?
> [[ Freya ]]: Nothing remarkable to my memory. But often, I get the strange sense I’m being watched.
> [[ Freya ]]: Which is fine. I’m hardly camera-shy.
> [[ Ascheritte ]]: Well, you’re not only experienced with them – but you seem to have made enemies of both them and the Celestials.
> [[ Ascheritte ]]: You have a lot to gain from picking a side; maybe you should join up with me instead?
> [[ Freya ]]: I’m honored you think so highly of me.
> [[ Freya ]]: All told, though? I’m pleased with what I have to my name as of now, Ascheritte.
> [[ Ascheritte ]]: Well, would you mind working together, like, unofficially?
> [[ Freya ]]: Far from it.
> [[ Freya ]]: Not to sound strange, but: you’re more interesting than you seem at a glance.
> [[ Freya ]]: I bet you’re on everyone’s mind.

> [[ UI Messenger – Group Chat: Averron City’s Finest ]]
> [[ Nel ]]: Ashe
> [[ Ascheritte ]]: Situation report?
> [[ Tatsumaki ]]: hi
> [[ Nel ]]: where have you been?
> [[ Nel ]]: Ael ditched and left all her mats with me
> [[ Nel ]]: so I dunno what to do now.

You whittle the time away on your Identifier, watching people pass.

[[ 1 ]]
> The show must go on – even if it’s just the three of you.
> Surely you can find another person or two.
> Trip’s off for now; remember, you’re the only one with a key in.

[[ 2 ]]
> Depart for the Observatory Altar.
> Depart for the Heretical Soulforge.
> Other.

>>1983515
> Surely you can find another person or two.
Let's invite Vyx. Always nice to have a ranged attack and she's nice.
> Depart for the Observatory Altar.
Let's at least see the cost of repairing the last argument. Then hit the soulforge to get a fire shield or other piece of armor made.

>>1983515
>> Surely you can find another person or two.
> Depart for the Observatory Altar.

>>1983544
This. I wonder if we could transfer the massive durability buff on our shitty wooden buckler to another item. Also afterwards we should see if the forgemaster can incorporate our cuirass and its inertia charge into better torso armor

Have we added Freya as a friend yet? I feel it'd be worthwhile to do so.

>>1983515
> message vyx and vision asking to party. Tell nel you're looking for more people

> head to alter

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> [[ UI Messenger – Group Chat: Averron City’s Finest ]]
> [[ Ascheritte ]]: We’ll find a replacement – no worries. I know someone good to ask.
> [[ Nel ]]: is it Freya.
> [[ Ascheritte ]]: It’s not Freya, Nel.
> [[ Nel ]]: oh okay thank god
> [[ Ascheritte ]]: I already asked her and she said she was busy.
> [[ Nel ]]: can you not

> [[ UI Messenger – Vyx ]]
> [[ Ascheritte ]]: Hey, you free? I was wondering if you wanted to party up again.
> [[ Vyx ]]: Oh, how’s tricks, Ashe?
> [[ Vyx ]]: You tryna get carried?
> [[ Ascheritte ]]: I’m good. Got my own backpack and everything.
> [[ Ascheritte ]]: But if you want to come along for your own sake we could certainly use you.
> [[ Vyx ]]: I’m kidding – geez! Lighten up.
> [[ Vyx ]]: There’s gonna be loot though, right?
> [[ Ascheritte ]]: Yeah… probably none for you though.
> [[ Vyx ]]: Bruh.
> [[ Ascheritte ]]: Bruh yourself. It’s gonna be a good time.
> [[ Vyx ]]: Alright, you got me. Lemme tell Liza I’m ditching her.
> [[ Ascheritte ]]: How’s it going with the Guardians?
> [[ Vyx ]]: It’s fab. No scrubs in sight.
> [[ Vyx ]]: Until you came along, anyway.
> [[ Ascheritte ]]: Bruh.
> [[ Vyx ]]: Yeah, now you fuckin know how it feels!
> [[ Vyx ]]: Didn’t like that, did you?
> [[ Vyx ]]: We’re still friends though.
> [[ Vyx ]]: I’ll be at the Observatory in a few okay.

You busy yourself with conversation during the long walk back to the Observatory. You arrive and head for the basement. A Precursor’s Puzzle Box is permanently embedded in a glass display dome between the shelves, and the bookshelves creep aside when you rotate the pieces to the single correct solution, the wall behind them opening into a small stone room.

There is a Greater Celestial Materialization Altar here. Carved from a single slab of white marble, it depicts a man cradling a dying woman in his arms, her head tilted back, empty eyes forever fixated on the heavens. In her lap is a bowl, decorated in gold, awaiting an offering.

> [[ Greater Celestial Materialization Altar ]]
> Celestial Manifestation “Averron Observatory”
> MANIFESTATION GRANTED BY:
Ascheritte, Andor, Ayla, and Kainzo, “as a safe haven upon which to engineer a future from a shattered past”
> [[ Offer Celestial Gems ]]
* Create Celestial Artifact
* Enhance Celestial Artifact
* Empower Mundane Item
* Enhance Celestial Manifestation
* Destroy Celestial Manifestation
* Vote to Enable/Disable PVP
* Modify Charter/Relinquish Ownership
> [[ Offer Item ]]
* Offer an Item to the Celestials

Safe haven, huh. Hopefully it’ll stay that way.

> Attempt to restore the Last Argument of Kings.
> View options for empowering Strife Memoriam.
> Other. (Write-in.)

>>1983617
> Attempt to restore the Last Argument of Kings.
> View options for empowering Strife Memoriam.
Also ask about an artifact capable of destroying the Observers. Let's just see the cost of everything before making a choice. In particular I'm interested in the upgrade that allows us to relive parts of our memories' past in order to obtain a greater understanding and a greater command over their powers.

>>1983617
> Attempt to restore the Last Argument of Kings.

>>1983617
> Attempt to restore the Last Argument of Kings.
> View options for empowering Strife Memoriam.

>>1983631
This. We'll need a good weapon other than Dross to rely on if we're gonna be using a fireproof shield and Last Argument fits the bill. Make sure to let Vyx know that she might want some fire resistance if possible. We've got spare mats for her.

>>1983617

> Attempt to restore the Last Argument of Kings.
> View options for empowering Strife Memoriam.


Reduce PP commit - ? gems
Reduce Cooldown - ? gems
Increase Memory Slots - ? gems
Increase Effective Time - ? gems

Relive distant memory- learn more lore and deepen our connection to the boss memories (Either as a cutscene or actually playing from their POV)
Imitate non-combat skills
Equip items associated with the memory for power boost (aetherbinder's cloak, ivory homunculus claw, earthsea royal signet ring, etc.)
Sacrifice items associated with memory for extreme power boost
Cause a Celestial Gem crush/full heal to refresh/temp buff Strife Memoriam as well
Partial Memory - Only call a part of the memory(limb, voice) in order to limit the weaknesses and make the Memory last longer.
Memory Brand - Infuse a target with a memory(usually of suffering, fire, death, and more suffering). Something more delicate for communication purposes may be more expensive.

>>1983617
>> Attempt to restore the Last Argument of Kings.

Holy shit! I can't believe thus quest is back! Very happy.

>>1983766
I know right? What a time to be alive.

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>>1983617

[[ General ]]
> [1] Repair relic “the last argument of kings”.

[[ Strife Memoriam: General ]]
> [X] Request a unique upgrade. (Commit: 8 → ???)
> [X] Change Strife Memoriam’s form, or fix Artifact into body. Request options to determine cost or gain. (Commit: 8 → ???)
> [1] Reduce devotion cost (Commit: 8 → 6)
> [1] Increase maximum number of allocated memories (1 → 2) (Commit: 8 → 10)
> [1] Increase maximum number of stored memories (4 → 5) (Commit: 8 → 10)
> [2] Increase uptime. (Commit: 8 → 10)
> [2] Acquiring Celestial Fortitude resets Strife Memoriam’s cooldown and affords significant temporary power increase. (Commit: 8 → 8)
> [4] Address the nature of a single memory, then Purify to permanently alter its functionality and weaken its hold over Strife Memoriam, or Exalt to immortalize its power. A Celestial Technique may be discovered. (Commit: 8 → 12)

[[ Strife Memoriam: Rust ]] (Commit: 8 → 12)
> [2] While Rust is the allocated memory, all outgoing non-elemental magic damage is increased.
> [2] Improve levitation capabilities while the Memory of Rust is active. The user may now glide as long as the memory persists.
> [3] Lesser Art: While Rust is the allocated memory, spend PP to temporarily freely wield pale flame as long regardless of Strife Memoriam’s cooldown. Requires a free hand.

[[ Strife Memoriam: Marble ]] (Commit: 8 → 12)
> [2] While Marble is the allocated memory, all outgoing unarmed melee damage is increased.
> [2] Improve dexterity while the Memory of Marble is active. Penalty to weapon skills is nullified, but native bonuses are not applied. The user has improved ground mobility and can stand more quickly when knocked prone.
> [3] Lesser Art: While Marble is the allocated memory, spend PP to recover health.
> [4] Lesser Art: While the Memory of Marble is active, spend PP to teleport from an unobserved location to another nearby unobserved location.

[[ Strife Memoriam: Ruby ]] (Commit: 8 → 12)
> [2] While Ruby is the allocated memory, physical strength is increased. The user can jump higher and bear greater loads.
> [2] Improve laser damage and accuracy while the Memory of Ruby is active. Lasers can more easily pierce armor and environmental objects.
> [3] Lesser Art: While Marble is the allocated memory, spend PP to emit a powerful shockwave that can shunt enemies away or knock them down.

> [[ Continued ]]

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>>1983887

[[ Strife Memoriam: Exile ]] (Commit: 8 → 12)
> [2] While Exile is the allocated memory, gain minor improvement to all Sword skills and minor resistance to abnormal status.
> [2] The Memory of Exile’s special weapon can strike an additional time, and will no longer damage the user.
> [3] Celestial Technique: Ì̸̢̨̨͕͙͙̙͕̦͎̞̔͆͑̓̓̆̋̏́͋̚͜͠ êTŒee”̶̛̰͔͔̭̜Ḳ̴̢͙͖̺͇̠͉̂̿̾̇̀̇͒̚ͅṄ̴̨̨̧̥͇̙̙̱̥̤̈́̉̌̔̊̀͆̆͌̓̄̂̿̕&îêT?O̸̡̳͕̜͖̎͑͆̓͗͛̉̕͝W̶̛̳̦̤͓̭̙͎̽̇̾͊̃͛̏͜͠͠¤zûýæzoY̶̡̨̢̨̘̮̩̜̞͒̍̉͜Ǫ̷̱͚̝̯͍̹̣͍̙̹̈̉̏̚̚̚͜͜ͅU̵̡̬̭̮̪̫̬̦̫̩͈̩͚̘̿̀͐̒̓́̌̒̽̿ͅ

> [[ Investing in an individual memory will improve further upgrade options. ]]

Damn - this is a lot of stuff, even taking into account the fact that you've got a functionally unlimited amount of possibilities.

> Spend a Celestial Gem to repair The Last Argument of Kings.
> Go for a cheap general upgrade to Strife Memoriam.
> Go for a cheap specific upgrade to a Memory.
> Consider options for changing the shape Strife Memoriam takes, or somehow fixing it into yourself.
> Don't spend or consider anything else now.

>>1983906
> Spend a Celestial Gem to repair The Last Argument of Kings.
1 gem seems worth it.
> Consider options for changing the shape Strife Memoriam takes, or somehow fixing it into yourself.
I'd like to have the ability to wear better headgear since the circlet form of strife memorian doesn't allow for helmets.

>>1983906
>> Spend a Celestial Gem to repair The Last Argument of Kings.
>> Go for a cheap general upgrade to Strife Memoriam.
> [1] Reduce devotion cost (Commit: 8 → 6)
It would bring us back to 2 Concussive Strikes.

>>1983906
> Spend a Celestial Gem to repair The Last Argument of Kings.
> Consider options for changing the shape Strife Memoriam takes, or somehow fixing it into yourself.
What about changing it into contacts?

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This is obviously a lot of stuff, but I plan to handle it like level-ups! When it comes to upgrades in the future: if you're voting for an option that branches into multiple choices - you're welcome to questions and discussion, but don't suggest your choice as a vote until I ask for it.

>>1983906
>> Spend a Celestial Gem to repair The Last Argument of Kings.
> Go for a cheap general upgrade to Strife Memoriam.

>>1983952
oh, right

>>1983929
well, my discussion point still stands. Marble's heal art and Ruby's flat strength boost both sound good, but we don't have the gems for that.

>>1983906
> Spend a Celestial Gem to repair The Last Argument of Kings.
> Go for a cheap general upgrade to Strife Memoriam.
> [1] Increase maximum number of stored memories (4 → 5) (Commit: 8 → 10)
If we meet a boss in the next area we want to be able to memorize it.

>>1983906
> Spend a Celestial Gem to repair The Last Argument of Kings.

> Upgrade Exile

>>1983918
I like our chain mail hood.

>>1983887
What does acquiring celestial fortitude refer to?

>>1983981
crushing a gem for full heal

>>1983973
> Upgrade Exile

Misread post scratch that.

> Go for a cheap general upgrade to Strife Memoriam.

Or save one after repairing Argument.

>>1983887
>>>1983887
>Spend a Celestial Gem to repair The Last Argument of Kings.
> [1] Reduce devotion cost (Commit: 8 → 6)

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>>1983906

Starlight bathes the broken blade as the dust of a crushed Celestial Gem washes over it, becoming pure white energy that forms the weapon’s new half. Fully formed memories of a love you have never felt flood out of your hand as so many alabaster motes – the very blessings of the gods that once were – and you are sad to see them go such that your heart hurts and you choke back sobs. But the Last Argument accepts them eagerly. It drinks the power, and becomes whole again. The blade of the savage greatsword is a pure silver tinted blue, swept hilt of royal cobalt bound in gold effects. Your hand itches as you take hold of it; its time is soon to come.

Briefly, you consider the form of Strife Memoriam. It is a tool to observe and reflect, thus:

> [0] Strife Memoriam becomes contained within the holder’s eye. Improves connection to memories. Imparts a free upgrade point. (Commit: 8 → 8)
> [1] Strife Memoriam takes shape of a grimoire that records the fate of its foes. Requires a free hand while a Memory is not active; frees all armor slots. (Commit: 8 → 10)
> [1] Strife Memoriam takes shape of a mirrored amulet that watches ceaselessly, occupying a jewelry slot instead. (Commit: 8 → 8)

You have one Celestial Gem remaining.

> Change the form of Strife Memoriam to a tome or amulet.
> Fix Strife Memoriam within yourself to afford a more expensive upgrade.
> Purchase a one-Gem upgrade.
> Save for now and depart.

>>1984137
> [0] Strife Memoriam becomes contained within the holder’s eye. Improves connection to memories. Imparts a free upgrade point. (Commit: 8 → 8)
Fuck yeah
> Fix Strife Memoriam within yourself to afford a more expensive upgrade.

>>1984137
> Fix Strife Memoriam within yourself to afford a more expensive upgrade.
It's hard to beat a zero gem cost

>>1984137
> Purchase a one-Gem upgrade.

>>1984137
>> Purchase a one-Gem upgrade.
I feel as though turning into a cyborg has some downsides somewhere.

>>1984137
>> Purchase a one-Gem upgrade.
We can alter it later once we have an idea of what it entails. I don't want four bosses all in our vision all the time.

>>1984162
>>1984169
>>1984184
Which one do you guys want then? I feel like you're just voting against the 0 gem option instead of voting for a real option

>>1984191
what?
1 gem upgrade as in something like PP commit reduction.

I'm totally fine with staying as a circlet.

>>1984191
> [1] Increase maximum number of stored memories (4 → 5) (Commit: 8 → 10)

>>1984191
was thinking either allocated or stored memories. Fine with SM as is for now.

>>1984137
> Fix Strife Memoriam within yourself to afford a more expensive upgrade.
> Purchase a one-Gem upgrade.

>>1984162
>>1984169
>>1984184

You meditate on the power of Strife Memoriam, prepared to offer your lifeblood and more.

More Celestial Gems will come to you – you know for sure. You can’t let this opportunity slip through your fingers.

And if you were powerful enough to fight alone? You could reap the benefits yourself. You think, as you stand before the Altar.

> [1] Reduce devotion cost. You’ll need that PP back for skills and Lesser Arts later, and lowering this cost now will only pay you back in the future. (Commit: 8 → 6)
> [1] Increase maximum number of allocated memories (1 → 2). Doubling your options in combat for one Gem sounds like a deal. (Commit: 8 → 10)
> [1] Increase maximum number of stored memories (4 → 5). If you fight another powerful foe, you don’t want to have to pick and choose Memories for good. (Commit: 8 → 10)
> Depart. Now isn't the time to make this decision.

I'm not too bothered about whichever way this vote goes. I'd argue that it's more worthwhile to save for a 2 or 3 gem upgrade but mostly I just wanna get a shield made or reinforce our cuirass with aethersteel and carapace and get on with the hidden fire zone. We made a lot of progress last thread and it was great but there was none of the action I crave.

>>1984230
> [1] Increase maximum number of stored memories (4 → 5). If you fight another powerful foe, you don’t want to have to pick and choose Memories for good. (Commit: 8 → 10)