>>2502317
Quest rules:
1. All dice rolled are assumed to be D100 unless otherwise stated
2. In most situations, only the first two dice rolls will be counted, if the threads become more popular this may be changed. This choice ultimately falls to the Lorekeeper, odd circumstances may cause him to overlook this rule (Like spells fucking up badly)
3. All dice rolls are final
4. Critical fails are considered to be between 1-5, Critical hits are between 95-100. Crits overpower any other roll except another crit. In the rare chance that a crit fail and crit success happen. The Lorekeeper will do something interesting from a story angle.
5. Near misses may occur, where a rolled number is close to the required threshold, whether over or under. This can have an impact on how the story proceeds. However these are up to the decision of the Lorekeeper.
6. Sometimes there are optional choices one may participate in, these will generally NOT be taken unless there are multiple posters who wish it, assuming there are multiple posters in the thread
7. There are often times choices with multiple parts, each part is counted separately, unless otherwise stated, sometimes rolls will be required before counting the second, third, etc, part
8. There will be “Time Limited” decisions, in which characters may only do a set number of actions, or ask a set number of questions within a conversation, or during combat. These will sometimes be clearly marked, and sometimes not if it adds to the story. If there are three choices allowed, for instance, each poster is expected to pick three choices in descending order. The first choice of the first poster, the first choice of the second, and the first choice of the third poster will be taken. If two first choices match, the second choice will be chosen of the following poster, etc. If there are fewer posters than choices allowed, the first poster will be given preference, and his second choice will be picked (so the first poster, second poster, and then first poster again), etc.
9. Interviews: Interviews will generally be a freeform set of questions that the readers have to ask the person they are interviewing. No hand holding here, I will purposefully leave up wrong answers or decisions, although for the most part careful readers will be able to tease these out.
10. Rules may be subject to change between threads, but will not change during the same thread. These rules are what we will follow for the remainder of this thread.

>>2502323
A bunch of farmers left from town.
They went to chop all the trees down
To go and set up graveyard grand
So their sleep will go as planned

So they built it great and wide
Buried all their dead inside
Made blessed runes to help them rest
Laid down gravestones for their best

They prayed at church the corpses keep
Undisturbed in blessed sleep
To lay under the sun at day
And during night when sun’s away


One night all the dead arose
Marched into the town enclosed
Broke right through the opened gate
Prideful people sealed their fate

Found the people sound asleep
Graves were fancy life was cheap
People screamed and people cried
There were no angels in the sky

Slaughtered all the people there
Killed one and all without a care
Town was quiet once again
Except the groans of undead men


The trees then grew back straight away
Covered up the light of day
Strangled up the zombies all
Those that walked and those that crawled

The cemetery was overgrown
Roots cracked and shattered the gravestones.
Nature spread back into town
And pulled all of the buildings down

Nature grew back over fields
Undid work that made land yield
Last thing to fall was the church
Gave out with a mighty lurch

Town now gone from memory
Nothing left for men to see
Now the story’s at an end
Before men come to start again


~ Farmer’s Rhyme, Unknown origin

==========(Chapter Start)=============

Henry didn’t dream, or rather, he didn’t dream of much. All he heard was the crashing of waves, and a bit of salt air, he was homesick once more.

+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

Henry awoke calmly. Then stretched, letting loose a small yawn. He greeted Johnny then set about getting their bags together. They had bought an awful lot of things now that Henry had really thought about it. The added provisions, and clothing, for Charles would add a good deal of weight. It was a good thing that Henry was planning on having the kid carry his own stuff. He sure as hell wasn’t doing it, and just letting Johnny do it would spoil the child.

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>>2502356
The sun wasn’t quite pouring in yet, but it would be soon. Johnny was standing in his usual spot, watching the sky through the window from his little corner. They both quickly got things in order. Henry finally tried on his new pieces of leather armor. They weighed a surprising amount but not anything he couldn’t handle. Five pounds, eight at the most. The hardened leather would provide a decent deal of protection without drawing too much suspicion since it could and would be hidden beneath his cloak. His steadfast affirmations that all mages should have cloaks was finally paying dividends.

Charles was still soundly sleeping. Henry REALLY had to break that habit, one couldn’t afford to waste daylight out on the road, or anywhere really.


Decision:
1. Try to say something to get Charles to wake up (write in, roll 1d100, choose a second choice incase this fails)
2. Flip his mattress over, serves him right for being so lazy.
3. Have Johnny do it, you can’t be assed, sides you’ve been putting it off this long!
4. Smack him awake
5. Write in

>>2502356
I've been waiting to post this fucking rad poem for ages now.

Rolled 24 (1d100)

>>2502361
>1. Try to say something to get Charles to wake up (write in, roll 1d100, choose a second choice incase this fails)
That's a strange name there op.
>Wake up, it's daybreak.
>Oh no, their's a gheist eating your foot.

Rolled 17 (1d100)

>>2502361
>1. Try to say something to get Charles to wake up (write in, roll 1d100, choose a second choice incase this fails)
Come on, kid. Time for school.
> Wrap him up in his bedsheets and jostle him awake.

>>2502385
>>2502369
Allowing a third roll due to QM fiat


also https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GaGFrPgl0gU

>>2502394
I've got to head off to bed soon, so I'll let InEx take the roll. And the blame.

Goodnight, guys.

>>2502385
>>2502369
well if you bois want to choose a second option I'd recommend doing so, as the decision specified.

>>2502427
I already listed my second option.
First was
>Wake up, it's daybreak.
Second was
>Oh no, their's a gheist eating your foot.
Unless I misunderstood what you meant.

>>2502436
no, I meant choose a different decision, how does henry react to not waking Charles up on his first attempt?

Does he flip the bed in response for instance? that sorta idea. I'll be more specific going forwards

>>2502456
Yank his sheets off.

calling it a night

if you boys want to make the last allowed roll or choose other options I'm game.

>Things are going to once again be moving fairly quickly tomorrow! We're also going to be making usage of that time mechanic from rider sidequest, woo boy!

Rolled 2 (1d100)

>>2502598
Henry really did get fucking cursed by Vive didn't he

>>2502598
Welp, we can only go up from here.

>>2502603
>>2502612
Look on the bright side... It wasn't a one?

Just shake him awake ffs

>>2502456
Grab Charles and get him up by force, if necessary

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>>2502361
Henry sighed and resigned himself to his fate. He’d have to wake the boy up himself.

“Get up, its daybreak!” Henry said to no effect. Charles was DEEP asleep. Henry leaned in close, and shouted. “THERE’S A GHIEST EATING YOUR FOOT!” Charles responded by absentmindedly slapping Henry in the face. Henry was about to punch him back but realized the kid was STILL asleep. He didn’t really have much time to think about it before he received another slap.

God damn.

Henry stood back, ignoring the chortling coming from Johnny’s direction, and formulated a plan. This plan involved him rolling Charles up in his blanket and slamming him against the wall repeatedly. Of course, this was a stupid fucking plan and he didn’t do it. He couldn’t really go off the handle when it came to Charles, as much as his inner rage screamed at him to do so.

What he did do was grab Charles by the shoulders and shake him awake, making sure to cover the boy’s mouth when he started screaming.

“I said no screaming back when we met, remember? Now get up and let’s get some breakfast before leaving.” Henry said.

Charles nodded quietly then got himself together. The three gathered their things, returned the room key, departed from the inn, and got breakfast.

++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

The trio found the two inquisitors on horseback waiting near the town’s northern gate, as they said they would be. Grom looked slightly agitated while Cassius was his usual calm self. The two had quite a few traveling provisions strapped to their horses. Henry grimaced. It would’ve been too much to ask for to have more comfortable transport than their own six feet. He just hoped that Charles wouldn’t whine too much when he got blisters.

Oddly enough, Rosa wasn’t there yet. She was running late now.

Decisions:
1. Do nothing and wait
2. Speak to Grom (write in)
3. Speak to Cassius (write in)
4. Return badge to Cassius
5. Speak to Johnny (write in)
6. Speak to Charles (write in)
7. Get a good look around (roll 60 perception or higher)

Rolled 80 (1d100)

>>2503529
>4. Return badge to Cassius
That shit has been more of a hindrance than a help.
Then
7. Get a good look around (roll 60 perception or higher)

>>2503565
THE CURSE IS BROKEN

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>>2503566

>>2503565
Niceeeeee

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>>2503529
“Hello Inquisitors.” Henry said, strolling over to the two men. “Fine day isn’t it?”

“Peachy.” Grom responded, tapping his foot against his horse impatiently.

“Don’t mind him, he just wants to be out of this city already and get our actual mission done mission done.” Cassius said. “It’s basically just trading one kind of pest control for another.”

Henry decided to ignore that comment, the whole affair with Jonathon was still fresh in his mind, and he was really beginning to hate how Cassius managed to keep bringing it up. Regardless, the trip to Yorkshire proper would only be a few days, so he wouldn’t have to worry about it for too much longer.

“I wanted to return the badge you lent me.” Henry said, handing the silver triangular badge back to Cassius. The man quickly pocketed it while looking over his shoulder.

“Really wish you’d given it back earlier, last thing I need is Grom even more upset than he is now.” Cassius said under his breath. “I wasn’t technically supposed to give that to ya, I just figured it’d make your life a bit easier.”

Had that been his actual badge?

Henry walked back over to his group, and began tracing his gaze over the walls out of boredom. There were a few Cathar’s stationed at the gate, and a couple of towers that flanked either side of it. As Henry slowly traced his gaze upwards he saw a woman dangling her feet off the roof, that woman had a couple of white feathery wings. The angel had been watching them the entire time. It was a tad creepy.

Other than that he saw a steady stream of people into and out of the city. There were a lot of carts being drawn in and out. It wasn’t even summer yet but the first harvest had been fantastic apparently. Henry didn’t know jack shit about farming but he figured that it was good news.

A few minutes later, Henry watched as Rosa ran towards the gate after ducking out of one of the side streets. She made it about halfway to the party before tripping and firmly planting her face in the cobblestone. Henry barely managed to stifle a laugh.

Johnny quickly rushed out to aid the woman, and the two of them shared some words. Henry really didn’t catch what it was, but it seemed to cheer Rosa right up. After the group was completely formed up Grom spoke.

>>2503733
“The trip will take approximately a day and a half. We’re going to stay at a road shrine instead of a town to save time. The message we received from the Hamlet of Blaise was urgent. I believe your services might be required healer, although I pray they are not.” Grom said, before turning to Henry. “As for you three, we’ve agreed to guard your passage through the countryside but we will leave you behind if you dray, we cannot keep a slow pace.”

Gee… thanks…

Decisions:
1. “If this is so important why aren’t you going alone?”
2. “What can you tell me about the local hamlets?”
3. “Do you think we’ll run into any undead?”
4. “No need to worry, we don’t plan on lagging behind.”
5. Write in

Optional:
1. Speak to someone else (Options: Johnny, Charles, Rosa, Cassius)(Write in)
2. Flip off the angel
3. Write in

>>2503737
>4. “No need to worry, we don’t plan on lagging behind.”

>>2503737
>1. “If this is so important why aren’t you going alone?”
>>2503737
>3. Write in
> Wink flirtatiously at the angel

>>2503744
>>2503764
writing

>>2503770
FYI probably not going to be able to post for the next 60-90 minutes, but I will be around after if it's slow in the thread.

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>>2503737

“If this is so important why aren’t you going alone?” Henry asked. He wouldn’t have minded if they had gone ahead, having them around just meant more trouble.

“Because I gave you my word I would ensure your safe passage at least as far as Blaise.” Grom responded. “Secondly, the journey will be less than two days, and the horde is fairly small by all accounts. It will not directly threaten the town’s defenses. It has no necromancer controlling it if our intel is correct.”

“If our intel is correct.” Cassius chimed in. “Look as long as you guys keep up the pace you’ll be fine.”

“No need to worry then, we don’t plan on falling behind.” Henry said. Charles looked at Henry and then nodded furiously at the inquisitors.

“Thank you for guarding us sirs.” Charles said.

As the group went through the gate, Henry cast one last look at the angel on the tower. The thing was still looking at them. He winked at it a bit flirtatiously, a bit of a joke in all honestly. The angel didn’t respond at all, it was pretty high up, Henry doubted it could even make out his face. Let alone care about anything he did.

+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

The group marched through a good chunk of farmland. Henry took the time to survey the landscape. It was rolling fields of grain, corn, and various other crops. A few windmills dotted the horizon, farmers would use them to make flour for bread. Bread was just another word for farmer’s currency after all. Henry also noticed a couple of scarecrows further up along the path, as they passed them he could’ve sworn they were looking right at him. Henry had always been unsettled by scarecrows, which Johnny pointed out was ironic on multiple occasions, being scared by things that had never been alive.

>>2503806
As the group passed over a bridge, Charles ran up to Henry.
“Its… it’s just so big. I didn’t think the world just went on like this.”

“You haven’t traveled much, so I don’t blame you for being surprised.” Henry said. “I’ve been to quite a few places myself, but never too far from the capital.”

“What is a roadside shrine? The inquisitor fellow mentioned in back in New Haven.”

“It’s a shrine to the All Seer and the angels.” Henry replied. “Things are pretty common on well trafficked roads. They provide shelter during nighttime to travelers.” Henry said. “Pretty uncomfortable to sleep in though, so you better prepare yourself for tonight… also try to actually wake up tomorrow morning, I don’t want to have to throw you into a river or something.”

“What?!” Charles asked.

“It was a joke kid.” Henry replied

+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

The road wound on, and the rolling hills slowly grew steeper and larger. Yorkshire Province was a good deal more mountainous than Sol Province, it’s where Henry drew some of his red mana from after all. He’d taken a trip in the area when he was younger, a bit of youthful exploration.

Johnny slowly worked his way over to Henry as he reminisced.

“I didn’t mention this earlier but I hope you didn’t give that poor woman too much of a hard time Henry.” Johnny said. “You really should treat the healer a bit better.”

Decisions:
1. “Fuck off Johnny.”
2. “She should treat me a bit better.”
3. “Where’s this coming from?”
4. “Got a thing for healers?”
5. “Alright, whatever you say bud.”
6. “God above, FINE.”
7. *Ignore him*

>>2503813
>4. “Got a thing for healers?”
Besides, she was eavesdropping.

>>2503813
>3. “Where’s this coming from?”

>>2503813
“Where is this even coming from Johnny?” Henry asked. “Cause I sure as hells haven’t told you anything about it.”

“The healer informed me of your previous actions towards her when I helped her up. She was surprised you had such a well behaved companion.”

“Of course you’d put it like that you ingrate.” Henry replied. “Look, she’s a snoop and cannot keep her damned mouth shut.”

“Hrmph, sounds like you’d be a match made by angels.” Johnny replied smugly. “You have so much in common.”

“Shut up.” Henry responded. “I don’t get why you care so much, do you have a thing for healers or something?”

“I merely appreciate hard working members of the faith, boy. I can feel a bit of gratefulness.” Johnny replied. “Maybe you could learn something from her.”

“Fat chance of that old man.” Henry replied.

+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

The group had stopped to rest by a river clearing. Grom had called for rest and lunch. Henry of course didn’t complain in the slightest. The sun had made it to the top of the sky and would begin setting soon. Based upon how calm the Inquisitors seemed, Henry figured they had plenty of time.

Cassius quickly got to work starting a fire. The man got a stew going and offered to share it with everyone else. Henry was honestly surprised the Inquisitors were putting this much time into making food. Again, Henry wasn’t going to complain, free food was free food.

Johnny and Charles were sitting on a log discussing something or other, probably how to use that dagger Henry had given the boy. Rosa was sitting by herself, looking at the ground. The two Inquisitors were sitting near the fire talking intensely.

Decisions:
1. Sit with Grom and Cassius
2. Sit with Charles and Johnny
3. Sit with Rosa
4. Sit by yourself
5. Write in

>>2503860
>2. Sit with Charles and Johnny

>>2503860
>3. Sit with Rosa

Make some small talk. The fewer church people that don't like us, the less suspicious we are.

Ask her about places she's been, how she decided to join the order.

Rolled 1 (1d2)

>>2503864
>>2503868
flipping a coin

>>2503868
This. Make the healer more uncomfortable

>>2503860
Henry grabbed a bowl from Cassius and some stew from the pot. Then he sat down with his two companions. He noticed that Rosa was praying silently to herself, probably for the best that he hadn’t interrupted her. It would have just set Johnny off again. As Henry sat down he got caught up in the middle of a conversation the two had already started.

“You’re doing fantastically for one without any formal training child.” Johnny said. “I’m honestly surprised you were never taught anything at all though.”

“My parents… they never allowed me to study such things.” Charles responded. “I didn’t really mind of course, It wasn’t like my home held many enemies that I had to deal with.”

“Hrm…” Johnny replied.

“Having fun you two?” Henry asked, sitting beside them.

“I… we’re just talking.” Charles said. “I actually did have another question for both of you… how can Johnny stay in the shrine, isn’t it powered by holy magic, shouldn’t he be repeled?”

“Johnny… he’s special.” Henry said. “Its… its fairly complicated... don’t speak up too loud with that stuff… you know.” He finished, motioning his head towards the inquisitors.

“It’s also something neither of us would share given the option.” Johnny added. “I understand your curiosity boy but some things are best left unknown.”

“I apologize for offending you then…”

“We don’t mean it like that!” Henry said. He was getting a bit exasperated. “You gotta stop thinking we get offended by that sorta stuff. It gets tiring having to correct you so much.”

Henry took a spoonful of his stew, Cassius was a fairly good cook he admitted.

Decisions:
1. Speak to Charles (write in)
2. Speak to Johnny (write in)
3. Finish your meal.

>>2503898
apologies about that, but I'd already finished the post as you responded.

>>2503907
>3. Finish your meal.
Before it gets cold.

>>2503907
>3. Finish your meal.
> 1. Speak to Charles (write in)

There's nothing wrong with curiousity. Information isn't dangerous in and of itself, but without proper context or understanding people can act irresponsibly with the best of intentions.

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>>2503907
Henry slowly consumed his meal, taking the time to savor it. He wasn’t all that good of a cook himself. He rarely had to be, since he didn’t get too many guests in his little chamber. Regardless, maybe he could take the time to learn. It might be something to kill the time at least.

“Charles, I know Johnny said things can be bad to know, but knowledge in of itself isn’t dangerous. But… without knowing how to use it properly, people can cause a lot of damage to those they care about.” Henry said, for once he was being completely truthful. “Information is just a tool, like magic.”

“I’d heartedly disagree Henry, some information is simply too dangerous to be properly shared, and I think you know that too.” Johnny replied. The man had already emptied out his bowl into a bush when nobody had been looking. The skeleton could be rather sly if he wanted to be. “Suspicion and ignorance can be useful tools in the right hands as well.”

“I vehemently disagree.” Henry said, ending their little conversation.

Henry’s thoughts drifted back to Celeste. He hoped Gerald was alright, the man hadn’t sounded well. Henry knew what he was going through, although he wished he didn’t. The church was probably going around seeing who was loyal and how loyal they were. He hoped Gerald wouldn’t be that caught up in it. He knew Cerise wouldn’t stand for it.

He still couldn’t believe Gerald had managed to marry such a nice person like her. Henry didn’t feel much envy over it though, he didn’t figure he deserved a happy life like that. He finished his meal shortly after that train of thought, and the party departed their little resting spot a few minutes later.

+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

The trip had been grueling but the shrine was in sight. It was a small construction of brick but would comfortably house them and the horses. It also had several glowing runes built directly into it, ensuring that their sleep would be peaceful enough.

The sun was properly setting now, and Henry could see a couple of farmer Ghiests flickering into reality as the moon began to approach the horizon. They would be the least of their worries if they wasted too much time.

The interior of the shrine was fairly hospitable, it didn’t have any windows but it did sport a small fireplace that the group would be using for warmth. The crackling of the flames did little to sooth Henry’s nerves. He knew some of the things that could be lurking outside. Cassius was busy placing straw into piles, there had been some piled into a corner, for use as a place to sleep. Henry didn’t mind of course, neither did Charles oddly enough.

Decision:
1. Look out a window
2. Talk to someone (Options: Rosa, Johnny, Charles, Cassius, Grom)
3. Go to sleep, it’s been a long day
4. Take a piss before it gets too dark.
5. Write in

>>2503958
>2. Talk to someone (Options: Rosa, Johnny, Charles, Cassius, Grom)

Get Rosa to teach Charles some healing magic, he had an interest in that earlier. Give his questioning young mind something to work on and get rid of two pains in our ass at once.

>>2503958
>4. Take a piss before it gets too dark.
Don't want to have to get up in the middle of the night.
Then we can talk.>>2503962

>>2503962
Doubt she'd agree but worth a try

>>2503975
>>2503958
If she's resistant, ask if she's sure she wants us and Johnny to be the only influence in this kids life.

I mean, we're super cool, but we're humble enough to admit that we aren't the best and making other people as awesome as us.

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>>2503958
Henry left the group and went around the back of the shrine, finding a couple of bushes to take a wiz in. He’d literally been holding it in for half a day, and it had started to get a bit painful. A lovely mental image for sure.


As he whistled and wizzed, he watched the waning sunset. It was beautiful out here, but the falling sun just heralded the terrors of the moon. They were still really close to the capital of course so there wouldn’t be anything too nasty lurking about. Regardless, he knew a bit about tempting fate, so he didn’t think much longer on it.


Upon returning back inside he saw Rosa had pulled out a book and was using the firelight to read from it. Cassius and Grom were laying in a pile of straw, trying to sleep. Johnny was laying on the ground, pretending to try to sleep. Laslty, Charles was standing on his tippy toes watching the sunset through the sole window the shrine had.


“Hey Rosa?” Henry asked.


Rosa made a show of shutting the book with both her hands, and turned to look at Henry. “What?”


“Look… could you teach my apprentice some healing magic if you have the time?” Henry asked. “I don’t have access to white mana but I think he might.”


“If you haven’t even figured out what kind of mana the child has it’d be a wasted effort, besides the healing arts aren’t a trifle.”


Great fucking job Henry.

Decisions:
1. “Why are you being such an asshole to me?”
2. “Look I just want a bit of help alright, I don’t really know how to teach a child magic.”
3. “I figured he could use all the help he can get alright?”
4. “Look, we got off on the wrong foot, alright?”
5. “Look… I’m… so…sorr…fuck it.”
6. Write in

>>2503983
>2. “Look I just want a bit of help alright, I don’t really know how to teach a child magic.”

This plus >>2503977

Even if the kid turns out to not have the talent, it can't be bad for him to be exposed to different people and points of view. He's had a rough life.

She's a pretty shitty healer if she's only concerned about the body and not the soul and mind.

>>2503962
Might as well round the kid's survival skillset.

>>2503977
Johnny is a good influence though. Maybe don't mention him

>>2503986
This.
I still don't think what we did was bad. We had just been almost killed by the leader of the werewolves because someone tipped him off and she was snooping around. We had all the reasons to be mad and suspicious.

>>2503985
>2. “Look I just want a bit of help alright, I don’t really know how to teach a child magic.”

>>2503985
“Look, I just want some help, I don’t know how to teach him, and he really wants to learn.” Henry said.


“Yet you’re a mage yourself?” Rosa asked, her annoyance turning to curiosity.


“Look, I’m self-taught for the most part alright? Yes I know it sounds unbelievable but it’s the truth… I don’t know what I’m doing with him at all.” That hurt to say, Henry HATED not being able to do something.


“The answer is still no.” Rosa said. “I do not have the time I’m afraid, things will move rather quickly for me when I arrive at Yorkshire.” She continued. “Look… if you really want him to learn… hrm…”


“I live in the capital. Maybe you could refer me to someone?” Henry asked.


“I’m going to be returning to the capital after all of this…” Rosa said. “Look, maybe I can give him a few tips but I really don’t want to just get involved and bogged down.”


“Well, thanks for that at least.” Henry said.


“What’s it like being so paranoid all the time?” Rosa asked. “You’ve been jumpy every single time I’ve met you, what are you hiding?”


“Well for one you were SNOOPING on me.” Henry replied. “So yeah I was a bit paranoid.”


“Look, I completely understand that your life was endangered but you’ve been terrified even after that business was concluded. You’ve been checking over your shoulder half the time during this little trip, and you’ve been casting worried glances at our inquisitors. I don’t understand it, what sort of life do you lead?”

>>2504023
Henry was about to respond but was startled by a loud THUMP that came from the side of the shrine. Something was outside, likely attracted by the noise they had been making


Rosa’s eyes went wide and she turned towards the wall where the sound had emanated from. Charles quickly stumbled back from the window and fell down, letting out a frightened shout. Henry could see SOMETHING flickering just outside of the window itself, glowing in the moonlight. Something blue from what Henry could tell.


“Fucking Ghiests…” Henry muttered.


“Seems like it.” Cassius said. He’d already gotten up and had one of his daggers in his hands. He was about to say something else when a much louder thumb emanated from the roof.


“It’s probing the shrine for weaknesses… Healer, would you mind assisting me in prayer? You too Cassius.” Grom said, slowly getting up from his straw pile and kneeling next to the fireplace, his hands clasped in prayer. Henry finally noticed the holy eye of the church hanging from the fireplace itelf. The symbol was keeping watch over them.


“I can lend assistance if you’d like.” Johnny said.


“Yes we could use all the help we can get.” Grom replied, he was unmoved by this whole turn of events.


Limited Time Decision: (PICK ONE)

1. Offer to help pray (yeah right)
2. Check the window to see what it is
3. Cast ghiest trap and tell it to fuck right off (roll 75 or higher)
4. Open the door and cast bolt at it
5. Help Charles back up

Rolled 47 (1d100)

>>2504027
>3. Cast ghiest trap and tell it to fuck right off (roll 75 or higher)

>>2504037
Hey lets use necromancy in a shrine with inquisitors.
>>2504027
>2. Check the window to see what it is

>>2504041
Ghiest trap isn't necromancy, its ghiestcalling (sorta like how Henry is a ghoulcaller)

>>2504027
Check the window.
Don't cast anything.

>>2504043
Rather not make it known anyway. Who knows what kind of connections the Inquisitors can make

>>2504049
>>2504041
>>2504037
writing

File: Boo.jpg (3.49 MB, 2560x1600)

3.49 MB JPG

>>2504027
Henry did something that under other circumstances would be extremely idiotic. He took a peek outside. He saw a lantern holding a misty skull in it, which silently shrieked at him. The lantern was in turn being held by a somewhat humanoid figure cloaked in rags. The ghiest slowly worked its way around the shrine and out of view, ethereal matter trailing off of it. A set of chains slowly rattled over the brick that made up the shrine as it circled. Upon coming back to the window it reared back and slammed into the shrine, creating a thumping noise and sending a wave of white energy flowing outwards from the point of impact. The holy runes were keeping the thing out, and Henry figured that Grom was going to further power them with prayer.

Henry took another moment to study the thing. It was a VERY solid ghiest, unlike the others he’d encountered in New Haven. The thing was fairly powerful Henry could tell. It held a rag covered hand to its floating misty skull, and a single spectral finger emitted from it. The skull let out a gust of wind. It was like the thing was telling them to be quiet. Henry wondered what madman had given birth to it. It was obviously not a human’s ghiest, or at least it wasn’t recognizable as one anymore.

The prayer session was continuing apace. The holy eye above the fireplace began to glow with white mana, before a burst of it emitted from the shrine, driving the ghiest back and chasing it away. It decided that there were less annoying people to shush, and departed into the sky. Henry watched it through the window as it grew dimmer on the horizon.

“With that matter settled… I’ll be heading back to sleep.” Grom said.

Cassius had already lain back down, and the man looked like he’d already fallen back asleep, incredible.

Decisions:
1. Continue to talk to Rosa (write in)
2. Talk to Charles (write in)
3. Other? (write in)
4. Go to sleep

>>2504070
>4. Go to sleep

>>2504070
>Continue to talk to Rosa (write in)
You wanted to know why I'm jumpy? It's shit like that. I've been living in the capital and I know that's one of the safest areas. Now, now I'm on the road where just about anything can come out of the dark and even though hings that look human might not be. I'm going to be on guard until we've got to a not werewolf infested city.

>>2504094
>not werewolf infested city.
So you want some other infestation?

This option is alright with me.

>>2504070
“So you were asking why I was so jumpy all the time?” Henry asked, letting the question hang in the air. “It’s because of things like that, and I’m going to stay jumpy until we get to Yorkshire. A nice big city with nice large walls.”

“Hrmph.” Rosa responded. “It was just a ghiest, I’ve never had any real problems on these roads before, and you don’t really strike me as the city sort of person, or perhaps you do. You strike me as the roguish sort. Well whatever the case I don’t really have much business looking into your business.”

“Finally something we can agree on.” Henry said, cracking a smile. “And I’m always on guard since there is always horrible shit in the world.” Henry said.

“I disagree with your pessimism. The world holds far more beauty than horror.” Rosa said. “Maybe if you spent some time looking at it.”


Time Limited Decision (pick one)
1. “I have.”
2. “Maybe if you spent some more time looking at it you’d see my way of thinking”
3. “We’re not going to see eye to eye are we?”
4. “So why do you dislike me so much?”
5. “Look, let’s just stay out of each other’s way for now, alright?”
6. Write in

>>2504070
>1. Continue to talk to Rosa (write in)

The Church overthrew the Government, and the Inquisitors are the most reasonable people we've met so far which IS worrying, since that isn't really something usually associated with Inquisitors.

We have people we care about who are in bad positions because of this, and we don't want to call anything down on them because we helped out and got roped into POLITICS, which this is rapidly becoming.

She knows that they didn't just kill the King and Queen, but also their kids, right?

>>2504117
>>2504115

> 1. “I have.”

Then this >>2504117

and ask if she's looked at the world. It's easy to ignore the horror and focus on the beauty, gives people a reason to not make it a better place - or to allow horror to exist out of sight so they can continue living in the beautiful parts of it.

>>2504117
do you want Henry to say this stuff to Rosa?

>>2504128
Sure
What's the worst that could happen?

calling it a night, see you guys tomorrow!

>>2504128
> Are you sure you want to do that?

Fuck yes. Does she think we got all those wounds sitting on the sidelines? We might not be a holy roller, but we don't shirk from standing against evil.

>>2504128
I don't. We are traveling with 3 members of the church. We shouldn't say anything like that. If the Inquisitors weren't here or if we didn't have to hide so much shit from them then I can understand that suggestion.

Just say
>I have
And maybe add something like "if you'd seen what I have seen maybe you'd have different view of the world"

>>2504153
Nigga, we literally took job offers from vampires who's favorite past time was brutally torturing innocent people and children.

Let's not get delusional here. Henry knows exactly what kind of an awful person he is.

>>2504187
Okay, we never shirk from pointing out something that's evil.

>>2504192
Johnny called henry out for just this kind of thinking

Henry just WANTS to feel like a hero

>>2504362
Johnny cuts down any heroism that isn't the kind of pure redemption that Johnny wants desperately for himself after having failed.

Johnny needs to get off the high horse he was apparently buried on.

We could have walked away at any point. Hell, we could have sold out the town and the Inquisitors that wanted to kill us just for being a necromancer, or just said "Woah fuck this place" and left.

I don't think WE have killed any children just because they were of royal blood.

Even though we did it for money, we still went above and beyond including taking out the Alpha Female even after the Inquisitors told us to back the fuck off.

Seriously. Why does Sora think we needed so much healing.

>>2504153
Fuck no.

We're way too paranoid and not stupid enough to say something like that in front of church people who are already mildly suspicious of us

>>2504115
“I have.” Henry replied. “I have seen quite a bit in my short life, and I’ve liked very little of it. I’ve seen the parts of the world you choose to ignore, the parts outside of church control and safety. You choose to focus on the good while ignoring the bad right?”

“Who hurt you?” Rosa finally asked. “Not your body of course, but I think your soul is fractured from something… is there anything I can do to help you?”

Henry was taken aback. He didn’t expect that at all from her. But she was a healer, even if she was trying to help a lost cause. Henry didn’t say anything for a while, he took another look outside the window, watching the clouds roll on by, and the occasional ghiest roll over the farmland, none nearly as powerful as that one from before though.

As Henry turned back to Rosa, he noticed Charles had fallen asleep in one of the hay piles. The boy needed his rest for the trip tomorrow after all. Henry smiled a bit to himself. He was going to miss the little twerp when all this was done… he would have to visit him… maybe…

“Who is the child, really?” Rosa finally asked, breaking the silence. “He isn’t your son, I don’t think you could even have a wife… oh darn.” Rosa said. “Apologies about that one, It just sorta-“

“Its fine.” Henry said. “I don’t really care what you have to say about me in the first place.”

“Regardless, who is he exactly?”

Decision:
1. “This time, its none of your business, Rosa.”
2. “He’s my apprentice.”
3. “I don’t really know what he is to me.”
4. “Why do you care so much about me?”
5. “Why don’t you just fuck off already.”
6. Write in

>>2504390
Do we even know why the church has done what it did? Actually, we will be getting a clue this arc :)

>>2505049
>2. “He’s my apprentice.”
He's got some serious magical talent. Able to see all sorts of spells inherently and a total bookworm. Plus, he's a good kid.

>>2505049
>2. “He’s my apprentice.”
>4. “Why do you care so much about me?”

>>2505049
>2. “He’s my apprentice.”

Orphans taking care of other orphans, because nobody else will.

>>2505049
“He’s my apprentice.” Henry finally said. “I know it sounds odd, but he’s a good kid with a lot of talent… and he doesn’t have anyone else. He certainly doesn’t have any prospects in a mages guild. I’ve decided to take him under my wing.”

“That’s… that’s very noble…” Rosa said.

“He’s taken to the few things I’ve taught him incredibly quickly, and he’s willing to sit down and actually study. I couldn’t be happier.” Henry said, smiling despite himself. “So why do you care so much about me?”

“I care about any wayward sons of our lord. It’s sort of my job. Well that and healing, I can’t do much else I’m afraid.” Rosa replied. “To offer a helping hand, it’s what any good Eye of the church would do, I know you probably don’t believe it, but it doesn’t have to be that way…”

“I’ll pass on what you’re offering Rosa.” Henry responded. “It’s something I’d rather not discuss.”

Instead of suspicion, Rosa’s face showed concern. “When we get to Blaise… if you’d like to pray with me, you’re welcome to. I think it would do you some good, Henry. I know you’ve probably suffered in life, and the world seems unfair, but… you can always turn things back around, you just need to try.”

“I already said I’m not interested Rosa.” Henry replied, he knew it was stupid to be so confrontative, but he couldn’t bring himself to pray, he hadn’t prayed to anything since he’d been a child.

+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

Henry dreamt of a poker game that night, the most important one he’d ever played.

+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

Henry was shook awake by Cassius, it was just before dawn he figured, since Cassius didn’t seem too concerned.

“Morning already huh?” Henry asked, standing up.

“Yep.” Cassius said.

The group had a quick breakfast, waited for sunrise, and then departed. From what Henry understood they were only a couple more hours out from Blaise. They would be back safely behind some walls soon, even if they would likely not be made out of stone.

Decision:
1. Say nothing during trip
2. Talk to someone during trip (write in)(choose as many people as you wish)

>>2505130
>2. Talk to someone during trip (write in)(choose as many people as you wish)
Talk to Charles, and try to get him to practice looking at the flow of mana.

Rolled 2 (1d5)

>>2505130
ROLLING FOR ENCOUNTER

>>2505138
Second. We should be doing what we say we are. Also, it's a good thing to do.

>>2505130
As the journey went on, Henry slowly worked his way up towards Charles. He wanted to continue to teach the kid how to use mage sight, especially now that they weren’t in an ideal environment… actually that mage chamber had been completely busted, no other reason he’d messed up so many times. It’d probably be way easier for Charles out here.

“Hey kid, I want you to try and see the mana of the land, tell me what you see.” Henry said, “Don’t be shy now.”

“Huh?” Charles asked. “While we’re walking?”

“Why not? If you do a good enough job you’ll be able to see where you’re going, you won’t even have to look!”

Charles closed his eyes and concentrated. It was FAR more difficult to see anything out here. The mage chamber had given him a far easier time of it. All he could do was see small flickers of white light in his vision. He wondered if it was just from the sun.

“So what did you see?” Henry asked, expectantly, he was fully expecting the kid to surprise him again.

“I uh… I just see some flickers of… white mana I think?” Charles replied. “I uh… I’m sorry I didn’t do so well.”

“Well your right, farmland like this is generally a hotbed for white mana. Any sort of flat stretch is.” Henry said. “Actually I never did go over mana did I?”

“Nothing really…” Charles responded.

“Mana is drawn from the land, and more importantly from your connection to it. Different types of mana tend to be drawn from different types of land. Swamps generally have black mana, forests generally have green, islands, the coast, and bodies of water generally have blue, plains, farmland, and the like generally have white, and mountains or other such hilled areas generally have red mana. The inner provinces of course have the most white mana anywhere in the known world, due to all of that farmland and flat terrain. You find a bit of green mana in the local forests, but you generally don’t find too many users of it.” Henry continued. “I had never seen practitioners of it until our time in New Haven actually.”

“Where did you get your mana from?” Charles asked.

“It… it doesn’t work exactly like that, but from all over. Its why traveling around is the most important thing a mage can do, Charles. Even a guy like me makes sure to travel once in a while.”

File: Zambambo.jpg (124 KB, 834x957)

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>>2505199
Charles nodded, committing it to memory.

“That’s amazing Henry.” Charles said.

“Yep.” Henry responded

+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

The group slowed up a few miles later, Grom had circled his horse back around and Cassius had done a running dismount.

“What’s going on Inquisitors?” Johnny asked. “Trouble on the road?”

“Yes I’m afraid. We’ve spotted a couple of ghouls further up the path.”

Henry took a chance to look up the path, sure enough there were a couple of shambling figures slowly making their way across the road. Henry couldn’t really get a good look at them, but he did see Cassius slowly creeping his way into the brush on the side of the road, working his way towards them.

Limited time Decision: (pick one)
1. Go to help Cassius
2. Speak to Grom (write in)
3. Cast bolt at the zombies
4. Try to gain control of the zombies (roll 30 or higher to maintain cover)
5. Cast bolt at one of the zombies (will use 1 bar of red mana, roll 60 or higher to hit from this distance)
6. Write in

Optional:
1. Protect Charles
2. Try to find more out about the zombies using your perception (roll arcana of 50 or greater)
3. Write in

gonna be honest, you guys rolled an easy encounter, I'm a bit disappointed

Rolled 20 (1d100)

>>2505204
>6. Write in
Stay and keep an eye on the noncombatants.
2. Try to find more out about the zombies using your perception (roll arcana of 50 or greater)

Rolled 26 (1d100)

>>2505204
>>2505214
Might as well roll...

Rolled 8 (1d100)

>>2505204
I think the Inquisitors can handle that. Let's just watch.

>>2505204
Henry quickly gathered Charles and Rosa and kept them out of harm’s way. Johnny quickly worked his way in front of Grom and pulled his sword out, while Grom unhitched his bow. Curiously he didn’t fire it. Perhaps he wanted to give Cassius a chance to perform. Cassius had mentioned something about this being his first real mission back in New Haven. Perhaps this was all part of the test?


Henry tapped into his mage’s sight, and more specifically, his black mana, in an attempt to figure out any information he could about the zombies. Unfortunately, even though he could see the zombies he couldn’t really get much of a read on them, the distance was simply too great.


About a minute later, Cassius lunged out of the brush, throwing and planting two of his daggers into the foreheads of the undead. The things had already begun to crash to the ground as Cassius began to slice at them with an expert’s hand. Wait… that didn’t make much sense, such small amounts of silver should have only weakened the things, not completely immobilized them.


“All clear!” Cassius said, after beheading both of the shambling remains and beginning to drag them from the path. After Cassius was done, a couple of white chains of mana emitted from his hands, and pulled the daggers back into his grasp. A neat trick, Henry figured, he’d heard of white mana being used to recall weapons, but it was a bit too neat for his tastes.


After the carnage had passed, the group slowly made their way over to Cassius. Henry took the time to get a better look at the corpses. They weren’t fresh whatsoever, he figured they’d been dug up recently from a graveyard, at least going by the dried dirt on them. Secondly the spell that had composed them must’ve been fairly weak, or quickly made. A novice’s work or a necromancer building an army on the cheap, otherwise they would have survived the initial daggers.

>>2505285
Henry returned to the path to find Rosa confronting Grom over something.


“We should give them a proper burial. We cannot just… leave them here!” Rosa said, a flash of anger in her voice.


“Under normal circumstances sister, I would agree, but we simply have more pressing matters to attend to, and your services could be badly needed in Blaise, especially if there are more such creatures up the road.”

“I still wish for them to be buried properly once this is all over, alright?”


“You are welcome to inform the local priest, and I’ll make sure they are seen to as well. You have my word on that.” Grom said. The man looked slightly annoyed by this turn of events.


“I seriously don’t see all the fuss sister, we have more important business to attend to than a couple of corpses.” Cassius said. Rosa looked at the man with a fiery rage before she managed to calm herself down.
Final Decision for Trip

1. Speak to someone (write in)
2. Try to check the bodies to see if they have any identifying belongings. (roll d100 to see what sort of things you find)
3. Head out, you really don’t want to stick around here
4. Write in

Rolled 29 (1d100)

>>2505287
>2. Try to check the bodies to see if they have any identifying belongings. (roll d100 to see what sort of things you find)

Rolled 2 (1d100)

>>2505287
>2. Try to check the bodies to see if they have any identifying belongings. (roll d100 to see what sort of things you find)

Rolled 82 (1d100)

>>2505287
>2. Try to check the bodies to see if they have any identifying belongings. (roll d100 to see what sort of things you find)

Rolled 61 (1d100)

>>2505292
>>2505302
Lmao.

This is how you roll

>>2505292
>>2505302
>>2505309
>>2505311
crit fail overpowers everything else, writing

File: 1336194066155.jpg (49 KB, 315x480)

49 KB JPG

>>2505317
>crit fail overpowers everything else
Oh, yeah, 5 and below are crit fails...

Fuck me.

>>2505287


Henry walked over to the bodies, crouched down, and began rifling through their pockets.

“The hells are you doing there?” Cassius asked, walking back off the path and towards Henry. “Things ain’t clean ya know, sides are you seriously getting sticky fingers now of all times?”

“I’m trying to find something that’d let us know where they came from, some sort of identifying belongings they may have been buried with, can’t hurt right?” Henry said.

“I suppose, still try not to get sick from touching the corpses too much, yeah?”

Henry began to reply before taking a kick to the face from Rosa.

“GET AWAY FROM THEM! DO YOU HAVE NO SHAME?!” She yelled, surprising the entire party. “IS NOTHING SACRED TO ANY OF YOU?! WOULD YOU LIKE SOMEONE RIFLING THROUGH YOUR THINGS AFTER YOU’VE PASSED, AFTER YOUR BLESSED SLEEP WAS DISTURBED BY SOME VILE GHOULCALLER?!” She had to be physically held back by Cassius or she would have continued to attack Henry.

“My fucking face.” Henry said, rubbing his cheek. The woman packed a punch.

“Unbelievable.” Grom muttered under his breath. “Let’s get moving before we kill one another, at this rate we’ll be more dangerous to ourselves than any undead could hope to be.”

Decisions:
1. Insist on checking the corpses (roll 40 or higher for charisma, roll second dice 70 or higher to find anything)
2. Speak to Rosa (write in)
3. Leave, you really don’t want to piss the woman off any further at this point
4. Write in

>>2505323
>2. Speak to Rosa (write in)
Well since you are a blessed member of the church, maybe you want to look for identifying things so we can at least inform their family. Seeing as we aren't burying them.

>>2505323
Let's leave. I don't trust our rolls.

"I just don't want them getting up again that's all"

>>2505323
2. Speak to Rosa (write in)
"I'm trying to IDENTIFY THE BODIES, for fuck's sake. Would YOU perhaps like to search them for identifying clues, seeing as you have experience with this? Because I guess I'll have to take up your job of informing the families."

(give her room to work)

"It's all on you, sister."

>>2505328
>>2505341
Just don't yell.

I know op likes to make us yell often.

>>2505343
Henry has his flashes of anger

>>2505343
Would whisper yelling be okay? Because I think a bit of whisper yelling is in order.

>>2505341
>>2505337
>>2505328
2 votes for speak, 1 for just leaving, writing

>>2505323
“I’m trying to identify where they came from, any information at all from them.” Henry said. “I figure it’d help save some lives if I could help our Inquisitors figure out their source, you wouldn’t be against that would you?” Henry asked.

“I… I still would be, the second things go a little bit wrong, would you all throw your beliefs right out? Just because of a couple of undead? We can figure out what’s going on from the local priest, no need to further desecrate these poor people’s corpses.” Rosa said.

“Our main goal is to save the living, not warden the dead.” Grom responded. “and I would argue at this point their sleep has been properly disturbed.”

“I figured as much from the inquisition, damn all of you!” Rosa said, still struggling against Cassius’ grip.

“No so loud alright? We don’t know if any more of them are around sister.” Cassius said. “Sides I don’t think me having you in a choke hold would be very ladylike for you.”

“You brute!” Rosa responded, stamping on Cassius’ foot. Cassius winced a tiny bit but was otherwise unmoved.

“I’m completely defenseless here Henry, let’s just head out and stop bothering the crazy monk.” Cassius said.

“Is there anything you could do then? Sister.” Henry asked.

“I could give them a proper burial, of course!” Rosa replied.

“I’ve said we simply do not have that sort of time to waste. Unless your volunteering to be left here, by yourself, where more undead could come and find you.” Grom said.

“I… uh… n-no…” Rosa replied, the anger replaced with a bit of fear.

“Then cease this childish tantrum and let us continue our journey in peace.” Grom continued. “We need to stop wasting time and continue to Blaise.”

Final Trip Decision:
1. “Thank Fuck”
2. “I’ll leave the body alone, alright? No need to be so upset now.”
3. “I’m inspecting the bodies and that is final” (may greatly upset Rosa)
4. “Johnny, make sure you keep that woman as far from me as possible.”
5. “You kick me again lady I’m going to hurt you, alright?”
6. Write in

>>2505341
the things are many, many years old, like easily 20-50 years old by Henry's estimation, we're not going to ID them. Henry is just trying to find some info out.

>>2505368
>2. “I’ll leave the body alone, alright? No need to be so upset now.”
>>2505373
We could identify local burying practices to locate the cemetery and church that they were buried near.

>>2505368
>>2505368
Leave bodies alone. It's unlikely we will find anything useful.

>>2505368
>1. “Thank Fuck”
> Check mouth for loose teeth

>>2505394
Why loose teeth exactly?

>>2505402
Because we got a boot directly to the face.

>>2505394
>>2505368

This.

>>2505406
I thought you were suggesting we check corpses for teeth

>>2505368
“Thank fuck.” Henry said plainly, before inspecting his mouth for any missing teeth. Luckily he found none out of place. He’d have to be more careful around that crazy bitch in the future, fucks sake.


Henry sighed to himself. He wished that Rosa hadn’t been with them on this little trip, especially now. Her moral compass was a massive pain in his ass. Henry could have set up a trace spell with some effort had he found a possession of large enough emotional value. To be honest though, why did he care? He wouldn’t even be getting paid for this job, and he’d been told to just leave things to the two trained professionals. Cassius had made short work of the two zombies after all. Better to quit while he was ahead.


The remainder of the journey went smoothly, no stops along the road, although he did see on graveyard in the distance, too far away to see anything inside of it of course, but it still loomed large in his mind. Memories of his younger more careless years after gaining his freedom flooded back to him, he’d done so many stupid, reckless things in graveyards, so many god damned mistakes.


++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++


As the group finally entered into the final stretch Henry could see the hamlet resting upon a small hill, just a village with a church really. There was a clear-cut section filled with all sorts of crop fields that surrounded the hamlet. An earthwork road that led further up into the town itself, and a fairly sturdy looking palisade that surrounded the upper section of the hill. The path led up to a sturdy looking wooden gate flanked by a couple of wooden guard towers. Finally, standing over everything else, was a small stone chapel rose above it all in the center of the town.


They had made it to the Hamlet of Blaise in one piece, although that wasn’t much of an accomplishment.


=====================(END OF CHAPTER)===============

=====================(CASE 2 START)================

>>2505417
just gonna be gathering a few notes together for the next post. How's the build up going so far?

>>2505420
Great.

Are we getting more updates or is it all for today?

>>2505422
we are totally getting more updates

>>2505423
Sweet.

I kinda like Rosa's character. She's not just a blatant waifu bait but has some serious negative traits.

>>2505417
Fuck Rosa's a bitch.

I wonder how she actually is in a fight with how quick she is to resort to hitting.

File: Blaise.jpg (127 KB, 800x533)

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>>2505417
The group quickly and quietly proceeded up the earthwork road. There were no signs of any recent battle, which was reassuring. The undead horde must not directly launched any sort of attack on the town, which meant things weren’t utterly fucked for once. The gate itself was a fairly simple construction. A creation of wood and small bits of stone, flanked by a couple of guard towers manned by a few Cathars.

“Oy, who the bloody hell wants passage into the Hamlet of Blaise?” A Cathar asked.

“The bloody Inquisition.” Grom responded. “Are you going to open up or do we have to wait for a higher power to sweep the damned gates open?”

“Fuckin ell… who are the others?” The Cathar continued.

“A Healer Monk, who very much wishes to lend the town assistance in these trying times, and a few travelers who we’ve granted protection on the road due to prior deeds of assistance to our cause, Cathar.” Grom responded.

Cassius looked bored out of his mind by this point. “Just open the fucking gate already.”

+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

The town had a single cobblestone road leading to the church, flanked by a few two story buildings made out of stone and timber, and terminating in a secondary wall made of stone, leading into the holy grounds. To the left and right were some roads made out of dirt and a bunch of other buildings made out of timber, plaster, brick, and other various materials. Honestly, it was kind of a shithole in Henry’s opinion. He had never been one for ‘rustic charm’.

There was a single tavern, what appeared to be an inn next to it, a small merchants shop, a blacksmith, and a tailor. Henry figured there would be a few more tradesmen further in town, but honestly the Hamlet only had a few dozen buildings, this small main street was probably the densest part population wise. The hamlet probably served as a sort of nexus for a bunch of the smaller farmer’s villages that dotted the landscape. For now the place seemed fairly safe, well, as safe as anything in the countryside was.

Time-Limited Decision: (PICK ONE)
1. Follow the Inquisitors and the Healer into the holy grounds
2. Go to the inn and rent a room for the night, you won’t be staying here longer than you have to
3. Check out the shop to see if there is anything interesting in there
4. Write in

Optional:
1. Ask the Cathar guarding the gate some questions (write in)
2. Talk to one of your companions (write in)

>>2505440
you're certainty getting into Henry's frame of mind, which is excellent. Here's the thing, her reaction would be fairly standard among most of the gold clergy, and even a good chunk of the cathars, hell, even among most common folk.

You don't fuck with corpses.

>>2505450
Yeah. I can get normal corpses. But these were zombies just a moment ago.

>>2505445
Ask Johnny to take Charles and rent a room while we follow the Inquisitors to see what's up.

I hate captcha so damn much

Thousand hells upon the spammers who forced this thing on us.

>>2505450
We're necromancers, not necrophiliacs.
>>2505445
3. Check out the shop to see if there is anything interesting in there
2. Talk to one of your companions (write in)
Hey johnny, how's our supplies looking?

>>2505450
YET.

>>2505445
4. Write in

> Hit up a bar. Listen to the rumors and news.

NOW I'm calling it a night, we'll be starting our second case tomorrow


I'd say not to fuck with corpses again but you sick fucks would make me do that, well I got an idea for a character down the line from you sickos.

>>2505469
>>2505445
A bar seems reasonable given the recent stress from our traveling companions.

>>2505469
>>2506388
bar wins with 2 votes, I'll have Charles and Johnny get an inn then

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>>2505445
“Grom, Cassius.” Henry said, getting the two Inquisitors attention as they headed towards the church. “I just wanted to say thank you for helping us get this far on our trip, in case I don’t get the opportunity to later.”

“Think nothing of it pal, you saved our hides back in new haven.” Cassius said. “You’re from Celeste as well right?”

“Yeah…” Henry said, wishing he’d had a different story, he REALLY didn’t need their attention back home, and he REALLY didn’t need anyone he knew KNOWING HE HAD INQUISITORS AS ‘FRIENDS’, oh god all the trouble that would cause…”

“Well if you ever have time feel free to stop by the inquisitorial headquarters, in the second ring of the city. Ask around for me, we can go drinking again.”

“And try to keep Duncan out of too much trouble.” Grom added. “We’re off to try and solve yet another place’s problems.”

Rosa said nothing during the exchange, she’d simply continued on towards the church. Henry didn’t really care what that crazy bitch thought of him at this point.

+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

Charles and Johnny were sent into the inn to secure a room, and Henry volunteered himself to go to the bar and gather some information, and maybe some drinks. Preferably something cheap, then again, out here cheap probably meant horribly low quality.

The tavern was called the Pumpkin’s Crown, and was fairly lively for this time of the day, a couple of windows let in light and father back the building opened up to a courtyard with some tables in it, given shade by a couple of trees growing out of the ground. A few unlit lanterns hung from the trees, a fairly nice place to eat. The interior was fairly plain, a wooden bar and some wooden tables and chairs. A few paintings of varying qualities hung on the wall, and a few other knick knacks besides.

Decisions:

1. Get properly liquored up (buy a drink, will use up some copper coins)
2. Try to gather some information from the patrons
3. Try to gather some information from the tavernkeep
4. Write in

Optional:
1. What kind of info you looking for? (write in)

>>2507040
>2. Try to gather some information from the patrons
Gossip, and local happenings.
Get a drink and nurse it for a bit.

>>2507040
Get some light drinks and ask the tavernkeep about the latest happenings in the hamlet.

File: img_1299.jpg (187 KB, 584x778)

187 KB JPG

>>2507040
>4. Write in
Get some food in us. Lamb meat, mushroom and pepper skewers, and two loaves of bread sounds good.

>>2507063
this will cost some more money fyi.

>>2507082
How much do we have on us, and how much do you suppose this'll cost?

If it's too much, give me a minute or two to find a good medieval style stew.

>>2507090
currently we have 7 gold coins, forty five silver coins, and ten copper coins.

I also keep this info on the equipment list sheet.

>>2507093
I keep forgetting about the list.

>>2507093
as for cost, I'm thinking a single silver coin.

To be completely honest I'm not going full realism here, due to lack of knowledge on my part. I'd take any knowledge you'd give me on the matter

Can't we do all of the suggestions? Get some drinks, talk a bit with the owner, mingle with the crowd and then order some meal.
I don't mind spending money on that.

Are we carrying everything with us? We should split the money and have Johnny safekeep part of it.

>>2507109
To be honest, I just search on the internet for Ye Olde Tyme medieval and fantasy recipes that look good. There's this one website I've visited that I made their food that was based off of the Game of Thrones books. Made their beef and bacon pie and honeyed chicken for my family, and they loved it.

Here's the site, if you want to get really hungry: http://www.innatthecrossroads.com/

>>2507063
Inns don't usually serve specialty meals like that. They serve what they have. Which would be stew most likely. Cause they couldn't refrigerate meat so they used what was available.

>>2507133
gonna add onto this, a small hamlet wouldn't have any advanced ice magic containers to store food either. This is pretty in the sticks as it were.

>>2507040
Henry quickly took a seat at the bar and called over the barkeep. He adjusted his red cloak to make sure that his leather armor would remain hidden. Simply traveling with those inquisitors would raise his profile. He just hoped that the recent undead issue would be of more interest to the townsfolk then a bunch of mysterious visitors.


The barkeep was a middle-aged, slightly balding man with a fairly nice mustache. He sauntered over to Henry and greeted him kindly.


“Welcome to our little hamlet stranger, what can I get for ya?”


“Just something light, I’m not too particular as to what. Journey was exhausting.” Henry said.


“Surprised the undead on the road didn’t give you any trouble, we’ve had a few attacks around here recently.”


“Ran into a couple of them, luckily we got the drop on them and not vice versa.” Henry said. “Say, what’s your name anyway?”


“Oh where are my manners, its Ishfeld, and you?”


“Henry, pleasure to make your acquaintance.” Henry said, barkeeps were one kind of person he could always get along with. “How much for a few drinks?”


“For you, say, ten copper coins?” Ishfeld replied.


That was very reasonable actually. The stuff was taxed in the capital a lot more. Then again he usually got his personal supply from Duncan, so it had rarely been an issue.


“Whats the latest around town Ishfeld?” Henry asked.


“The local milita captain arrived yesterday to the church to discuss the undead issue I think.” Ishfeld said. “The local Templar did as well. Must be serious if they’re calling in important people like that.”


Milita captains were generally just glorified peasants who organized local level defenses of farmers. They had always been required by necessity due to the church being unable to field enough Cathars to cover wide swaths of territory. Henry figured they did a good enough job most of the time. Everyone had to know how to defend themselves to survive out in the farmlands after all.

>>2507149
>>2507133
Would a bowl of onion broth with goat meat and potato (with a loaf of brown bread on the side) be a good alternative?

>>2507161

“Beyond that… I mean you just arrived so that’s news in of itself. Any word from the capital?”


“The royal families been offed.” Henry said.


“Heard that yesterday, still can’t believe it… although I’d heard they were demon worshipers, so I’m not exactly surprised.”


“That old rumor?” Henry asked, surely Ishfeld didn’t believe that old pile of horseshit.


“Look, I’m just saying there’s no other reason the church would act so boldly like that. Never been issues with boundaries between church and nobility like this before.”


“Just happened far too suddenly for that, no warning at all. Doesn’t make sense.” Henry said. “Sides I don’t think them worshiping feckin demon’s would’ve gone unnoticed.” Henry said, lowering his voice despite himself. He was worried who’d be listening to that, even out here.


Henry began to sip at his drink, it was surprisingly good, even if the potency was sickeningly low.


Henry sat for a little while longer, overhearing a few boring bits of conversation. News of the inquisitor’s arrival had spread into the tavern and was causing quite a stir. The tone had shifted dramatically, bits of nervousness mixed in with real hope.


One conversation however caught Henry’s attention. A couple of Cathar’s were talking at a table. Shouldn’t they be working?


“Look, I get that we may finally have some competent help with these city boys, but that still doesn’t solve the problem!” One man said.


“Vinny tried to do that shit on his own, and he hasn’t come back yet!” Another said. “Let’s just leave things to people who’ve trained their whole damned lives for this, yeah?”


“That’s not the only thing, I’m telling you. I saw one of those creepers INSIDE the rune wall.”


“Not so loud, let’s not cause a panic, sides your stupid ass is drunk on shifts and you know it too. It could’ve easily just been some vagrant or idiot outside after dark, no need for it to be one of those shambling horrors.”


Inside the rune wall? What the hell?


At that point, Henry noticed that Charles and Johnny had finally entered the tavern, they hadn’t quite noticed him yet. He finished his drink before making a decision.


Time Limited Decision: (Pick one)

1. Try to offer your services to the Cathars to check the runes for them(roll 60 or higher for charisma.)
2. Go to sit with Johnny and Charles and get some food, you are hungry after all.
3. Leave the tavern and head elsewhere.

>>2507163
That sounds good, and tasty.
Yes.
>>2507165
>2. Go to sit with Johnny and Charles and get some food, you are hungry after all.
Let them know about what he heard the cathars talk about. But quietly.

Rolled 92 (1d100)

>>2507040
> Rosa said nothing during the exchange, she’d simply continued on towards the church. Henry didn’t really care what that crazy bitch thought of him at this point.

Reasonable.

>>2507165
1. Try to offer your services to the Cathars to check the runes for them(roll 60 or higher for charisma.)

>>2507170
Fuck my choices, lets go with that 92
>>2507175

>>2507165
>2. Go to sit with Johnny and Charles and get some food, you are hungry after all.

Not our business. Not yet, at least...

>>2507175
Maybe we can get them to pay for our meal.

>>2507175
>almost a crit

well god damn

>>2507182
I can go with that.

>>2507165
“I couldn’t help but overhear you gentleman.” Henry stood up, swinging his cape behind him for dramatic effect.


“The hell are you?” One of the Cathars asked.


“A man who’s willing to lend a helping hand, especially since this matter is so important!” Henry said. “I don’t suppose you’d want word of faulty runes spreading across town either!”


“Please don’t say that so damned loudly.” One of the Cathars said. “Everyone’s already on a hair trigger…”


“I’m a magus, and I could probably inspect those runes of yours… for a small fee of course, say a few silver coins?”


“Hrm… well that’s a lot fucking cheaper than any of them fancy mage’s guilds… but do you really know any magic” The man asked.


Henry motioned for them to draw in close so nobody else would notice, and let a few sparks fly from his fingertips. The little show was surprisingly effective.


“Well hot damn, that’s just what Lar’s been lookin for!” One of them whispered


“Right, look, Lar is the big man around here, he reports directly to this district’s Templar. So he’d be the guy who could authorize such a payout… but we’d be willing to put in a good word for ya… as long as you keep our little break a secret yeah?”


“Fine by me, where can I find this guy?” Henry asked.


“He’s in the Holy Grounds right now, probably inside the barracks.” One of the Cathar’s said. “And don’t worry I won’t let ol’ drunky be the one doing the talking. We appreciate the low price as well!”

>>2507207
Henry grinned in satisfaction. Offering magical services could bring some notice to you but oftentimes brought good will, few ‘official’ magus’s were willing to leave their cities to venture into the countryside unless they absolutely had to.


“How’s about this then? You guys pay for my meals while I’m in town, I’ll only be here a day or two, and it will be loads cheaper than what a guild mage would require as payment.”


“Again, you’ll have to talk to Lar, but he’d probably agree if you are legit. Names Clarence by the way.” Clarence said, holding a hand up. “Old drunky over here is named Durance. Yeah I know the names are similar, everybody fucking jokes about it.” Clarence said.

+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

After the Cathar’s had departed, Henry noticed Johnny swing over, he’d already gotten a meal for Charles. Well Henry HAD agreed to split some of the money up with Johnny during the trip here, but still, he hated other people spending his hard earned coin.


“Henry, me and the child are going to head out of town to train further with that blade you gifted the boy. He’s expressed quite a bit of interest since you gave it to him.”


First Decision:

1. “Keep him in the Hamlet where it’s safer.”
2. “Sure, let him go, boy could use the experience.”
3. “I’d actually like to join you, I’m a bit rusty myself.”

Second decision (assuming you’ve stayed):
1. Stay in the tavern and get a meal (will use up time)
2. Head into the Holy grounds to find Cathar Lar
3. Head elsewhere (write in)

>>2507209
>2. “Sure, let him go, boy could use the experience.”
>1. Stay in the tavern and get a meal (will use up time)

>>2507209
>2. “Sure, let him go, boy could use the experience.”
Be careful of zombies and the like.
2. Head into the Holy grounds to find Cathar Lar

>>2507215
>>2507216
Just gonna say we'll be letting Charles train up a bit


right now there is a tie between meal and going to the Cathar right away

>>2507215
If we go and meet him first, we can get the next meal on "free"

>>2507233
Fair enough, but we're putting the drinks on his dime too.

>>2507246
Deal

>>2507246
>>2507209
Sounds good.

>>2507246
>>2507250
writing, will take further suggestions as well

File: Hamlet_Captain.jpg (127 KB, 620x418)

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>>2507209
Henry quickly worked his way out of the tavern and towards the holy grounds, turning back to watch Johnny and Charles depart through the gate. He hoped that their little training session would prove fruitful.


The entrance to the holy grounds was guarded by a single Cathar, the man looked at Henry for a moment then opened the gate.


“You’re the one Clarance talked about, the one with that red cloak.” The man said. “Go on in, Lar’s waitin in the barracks, but word of advice. Don’t waste his feckin time. It’s something few of us can spare these days.”


++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++


The holy grounds of Blaise were a hell of a lot drabber than New Haven’s had been, a basic stone path leading up to a basic stone chapel. To Henry’s left stood a small two story building made of timber and plaster, which Henry assumed was the barracks and maybe a partial healer’s abbey if the hamlet was lucky enough to even have a permanent healer on staff. Again, being out in the boonies was a huge pain in the ass.


A rugged looking man in some fairly sturdy looking mixed leather armor was pacing around outside the church, muttering curses to himself. Henry figured that was the local Militia Captain he’d heard about in the bar, man looked pissed off as all hell.


There were no other key features in this little holy grounds, the town certainly wasn’t important enough to have its own Angel’s roost, the town was probably lucky to be patrolled by angels once a week.


Decisions:
1. Talk to the man outside the church
2. Head into the church to see what’s going on
3. Head into the barracks to look for Lar, no time to waste now
4. Write in

>>2507274
>3. Head into the barracks to look for Lar, no time to waste now

>>2507274
>3. Head into the barracks to look for Lar, no time to waste now

>>2507278
>>2507281
writing!

>>2507274


Henry quickly made his way over to the barracks, being careful to avoid eye contact with the agitated man pacing up and down the stone path to the chapel.

The interior was a fairly simple construction. A long hallway leading up to a set of stairs, and two rooms, one to the left and one to the right. The door on the right led into a small set of offices and what looked to be an armory behind another set of doors, although Henry couldn’t really get a good look. A small Hamlet like this wouldn’t have anything of worth in the first place, so there would be little point worrying about thieves.

At the far wall, sitting at a desk and reading over something, was a Cathar who looked a good deal older than the two he’d dealt with in the tavern, he figured that this was Lar.

“Cathar Lar I presume?” Henry asked

“You presume correctly, you that hot shot mage that Clarence babbled about? I wouldn’t mind having someone check the runes, would at the very least keep the other Cathar’s at ease, and probably the whole damn town too. If one of those things is busted then a horde could just sweep right in.” Lar said. “I don’t suppose I need to tell you how badly that’d go for us.”

“Don’t you have a gate, some men, and a good set of palisades?” Henry asked.

“The gate just looks tough son, few hundred undead beating at that and the thing could cave in, it’s not nearly as sturdy as the one for the Holy Grounds. As for the other Cathars, I mean sure, Clarence and Larry aren’t terrible, but the other three are more like Durance, good against the occasional Ghiest that harasses the townsfolk, but if we get attacked by a horde we’ll be in some real shit.”

Wait, a couple hundred? Grom had said there were only sixty at most.

Decisions (pick as many as you wish)
1. “A couple hundred?”
2. “Who the hell is the guy pacing outside the church?”
3. “What can you tell me about the rune wall?”
4. “What will the payout be?”
5. “What’s your take on all of this?”
6. “Any local curiosities I should be mindful of?
7. “You must be at ease now that the inquisitors are here!”
8. “Well you can count on me, I can certainly check to see if the runes are in working order.”
9. Write in

>>2507333
>1. “A couple hundred?”
And where are the runes located, and will I have an escort?

>>2507333
>1. “A couple hundred?”
>3. “What can you tell me about the rune wall?”
>4. “What will the payout be?”
>6. “Any local curiosities I should be mindful of?

>>2507348
This also.

>>2507348
>>2507336
>>2507333
All the things.

>>2507348
>>2507336
writing!

>>2507333
Henry felt his mouth dry up a bit. “A couple… hundred?”

“Well that’s our belief, about how many of them are in the overall area we believe.” Lar responded. “Don’t get the wrong idea, there are multiple hordes, they don’t seem to have any central controlling ghoulcaller as of now, still a hassle to deal with and a real danger if any actual ghoulcaller comes into the area. All those corpses already being animated would be too much of a prize to resist. It’s a god damned travesty is what it is.”

“What can you tell me about the rune wall? Anything I should know?”

“Runes are about one hundred and fifty meters out from the hill the town is on, there are about fifty of them or so, give or take anyways. The wall’s never had issues in the past and most of the runes had been replaced about three or four years ago so they aren’t ancient at all. It’s possible one of them was damaged somehow and the mana leaked out, that’s what I’m thinking happened anyways. We can’t spare the manpower right now to check them. It’s very possible that a group of them could launch an attack on the hamlet while we did so, its why we are so fortunate you came along.” Lar said. “Hence why I’d like this done before tonight. They’ll be a heck of a lot more active with moonlight on em.”

Everything bad was more active with moonlight on it.

“You think someone might’ve damaged a runic ward, without any sort of magic?” Henry asked, a bit incredulously.

“No I do not, I don’t think there is anything to Durance’s little story, but it’ll put everyone at ease and won’t cost too much, so I figure why not.”

“What will the payout be actually?” Henry asked, he wanted to make sure that part was clear this time.

“Clarence said you’d just want a few meals, and I ain’t looking to pay you out any more than that. I’ll let you have a few meals, but just for you, not anyone your with, can’t be spending that kinda money right now.”

Henry nodded, he figured the town had spent most of its money hiring the Inquisitors.

>>2507397
“Any local… curiosities I should be mindful of?”

“Weird shit?” Lar asked.

“Sure, let’s go with that.” Henry said.

“We have three graveyards in the area, two pauper’s graveyards and a much fancier one protected with runic wards. I’m assuming the ghouls originated in the poor folks beds. The fancy one is a hell of a lot larger but is protected to hell and back.” Lar said.

Henry nodded, things were an utter pain in the ass to try and remove, nearly impossible without some REALLY specific items and magic, and that sorta thing raised one HELL of a fuss. Trying to do that might call angel’s down on your head, or at least a local armed response. No way in fuck some novice would be able to just stroll right in. Anyone more talented wouldn’t leave their dropping lying around either, no way they’d risk an operation like that by letting their pets wander around aimlessly.

“Beyond that… avoid the local woods at night, bunch of wolves in there, and a few nastier things if you’re the superstitious type.” Lar said. “Only other thing is a local well a mile and a half out.”

“A well?” Henry asked.

“Someone said they saw shadows leaking from the thing at night, I sure as hell am not lugging myself over to go check.”

Utterly Fantastic. At least He’d gotten a few free meals out of this whole affair.


Decision:
1. Say anything else? (Write in)
2. Leave and see if that man is still pacing outside the church
3. Go for the runic wards, you want that god damned meal already
4. Other? (write in)

>>2507403
>1. Say anything else? (Write in)
Can I get a guide to the runes?

File: CMOT Dibbler.jpg (13 KB, 236x325)

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>>2507403
>3. Go for the runic wards, you want that god damned meal already
Pick up a poorly made sausage-inna-bun from that bloke selling them outside, you're starving

>>2507416
Could we get a guide first?
Preferably one that has good fighting knowledge.

>>2507425
(shrugs affirmatively) I figured the options would be combined, anyway, and the sausage thing was meant more as a joke.

>>2507425
gonna come out and say no, the runic wall is actually fairly sturdy, and during the day NOTHING is getting inside. Or at least Henry TRULY believes that, its sorta an unspoken fact of the world. the things contain angelic white mana magic. (created by humans of course)

>>2507403
Let's see if the man pacing outside is still there

>>2507446
K
Then lets go and get that foods stuff.

>>2507408
>>2507416
writing

>>2507403
Charles sat down for a moment to rest, it hadn’t even been thirty minutes and he was already tuckered out. All he’d even learned was how to stand and hold the blade properly. He hadn’t even been allowed to swing it. He knew Johnny HAD to teach him this for him to improve at all, but it was utterly boring. He needed to learn though. He figured he’d be on his own again, soon. When they got to Yorkshire things could fall apart. He just hoped they wouldn’t, he wanted to keep traveling with some of the only people who’d ever shown him kindness in his life, and he wanted to be a part of their little group.

Charles turned towards the town, watching as a red cloaked figure slowly worked his way down the earthwork ramp, seemingly eating something and then tossing the remains to the ground when he’d finished. It was Henry, what was he doing out here?

“Hrmph, back already?” Johnny asked nobody in particular.

“Yeah yeah!” Henry replied. “I got a small job for just me, got some free meals out of it though.”

“And that would be what exactly? I don’t see you shoveling manure.” Johnny replied.

“I’m going to check the runic wards… unless you’re busy with the child of course.” Henry said.

“It would be best to let Charles decide I believe.” Johnny replied. “It would be good if you got used to asking him things Henry.” Johnny replied. “I know that’s never been your… style exactly.”

“Fine, Charles, do you want to come with me and learn some things about runes?” Henry asked. “I’d like to teach you a bit about how they work, if you need a break from standing around all day, ey Johnny?”

“I’m glad you remembered your early training at least.” Johnny replied.

Decision by Charles:
1. Stay with Johnny
2. Go with Henry
3. Write in

sorry about the delay on this one.

>>2507472
Go with Henry.

>>2507472
>2. Go with Henry
Try to see the mana on the runes.

>>2507480
>>2507481
will wait another minute or two then begin writing

>>2507472
“I want to learn about runes!” Charles shouted out, leaping back up and running after Henry. Johnny sheepishly followed after them, if nothing else than to keep an eye on his charges. It was a good feeling to have things to protect, and more importantly, something other than Henry.


+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++


“So I got a map from the Cathar in charge of the hamlet.” Henry said. “Luckily it seems fairly accurate, which is nice.” Henry continued, crouching down next to a rune. Henry watched as it pulsed with a holy energy, white light trapped inside a stone prison.


“So you know why they make runes out of stone Charles?” Henry asked.


“Because it’s strong?” Henry asked.


“Well not just that, although that’s important, it’s because it’s a natural, unliving material. It holds in mana very easily and isn’t generally at risk of flying apart, unless of course you do something to it. You can carve runes into metal but it’s a lot harder to do, and of course metal rusts. Of course they can be disrupted with the right knowledge.”


“Like what?” Charles asked, watching Henry inspect the rune for a moment before getting up and heading to the next one.


“Red mana tends to do a number on such things… I guess green mana too now that I think about it.” Henry said. “I know of a few spells that can absolutely shatter stone or brick, but leave people completely intact, it’s fascinating really.”


“Wow… so why can’t you do any of that?” Charles asked.


“Destroy runes?” Henry asked. “How do you know I can’t?”


“I uh…” Charles stammered. “I dunno.”


“We’ll I never learned how to really, demolition was never that lucrative. Sides when I had a need for it I never had the ability to learn it.”


“Huh?” Charles asked.


“Forget it kid.” Henry said.


“I want you to use mage sight on this rune here, tell me what you see.” Henry said, pointing at yet another stone, its carved contours pulsing with white energy. Charles could see it even without putting much effort into it.


Decision by Charles:
1. Ask questions (write in)
2. Try to use mage sight on the rune (roll 40 or higher)
3. Other? (write in)

Rolled 97 (1d100)

>>2507501
>2. Try to use mage sight on the rune (roll 40 or higher)
Close eyes so we can just focus on the mana.

Rolled 2 (1d100)

>>2507501
Rollan

>>2507506
>>2507507
crit miss and crit hit... hrm... FOR THAT, YOU ALL GET A SPECIAL TREAT!

File: 1518773665244.jpg (14 KB, 365x502)

14 KB JPG

>>2507507

>>2507511
Sorry for ruining your crit lmao

>>2507514
At least there was a success at first, so we wouldn't be up shit creek.

File: Blaise.jpg (54 KB, 750x450)

54 KB JPG

>>2507501
Charles quickly set to work, closing his eyes and picturing the rune carved on the stone. He could have sworn he saw the High Seraph herself, why was he thinking of her? Right… even he knew that’s where holy magic came from, that was the source of it all. It’s what allowed those without magical training to conjure forth miracles.

He traced his hands over the rune, watching as an exterior vein of mana slowly adjusted itself to his touch. Then he watched amazed as his vision opened up a bit, and he saw a vast wall of glowing white light, blanketing the town and protecting it from all of the horrors of the night, protected by the high Seraph’s promises, her righteousness. Charles felt humbled. He continued to watch along the wall, as eddies and currents rippled along the surface, patterns of mana that many would never see.

Then for a brief, almost unnoticeable moment, the whole wall FLICKERED. Charles opened his eyes for a moment. He didn’t know what it meant.

Decision by Charles:
1. “I saw the wall, and it uh… flickered.”
2. “I saw the wall, it was amazing! I saw so many incredible things Henry!”
3. “So this is what protects us?”
4. “How can you tell if one isn’t working properly”
5. Write in

>>2507516
>1. “I saw the wall, and it uh… flickered.”
I-is it supposed to flicker?

>>2507519
This
And the second option too

>>2507516
“I saw the wall, it was amazing! I saw so many incredible things Henry!” Charles said, giddy and proud of himself. He’d finally figured it out.

“Can you describe what you saw?” Henry asked.

“All the runes, they were interlocking, sort of, I don’t know really. But they were all connected into a massive wall of white mana… I think it was white mana. Is that what keeps horrors at bay?”

“Yep, yep it does. Its angelic magic.” Henry said. “Something I could never hope to make, but thankfully the church can make in spades.”

“I um… I saw the wall flicker, what does that mean?” Charles asked.

Henry looked at Charles quizzically. Then watched the wall for a while. Henry’s expression never changed, the man was concentrating intensely.

“You must have lost concentration, and the wall must have just temporarily gone out of view.” Henry said, finally. He sounded sure of himself, it put Charles at ease. “You need more practice kiddo, a small slip like that can be dangerous, but for a newbie, ya did good!” Henry said, slapping Charles on the back.

“Ah, don’t tell anyone I slapped ya, alright?” Henry said, poking Charles with his elbow after the child didn’t laugh. “It was a joke kid.”

The rest of the inspection went smoothly, Henry found nothing out of place. Now he just had to go back, get his pay, and kill some time. They would set out at dawn to give themselves plenty of time to reach Yorkshire proper.

Decision by Henry:
1. Head back into town to get paid
2. Do another pass on the rune wall (will use up a good chunk of time, will be unable to take further action for day)
3. Write in

Decision by Charles
1. Speak to Henry
2. Speak to Johnny
3. Write in

>>2507535
>2. Do another pass on the rune wall (will use up a good chunk of time, will be unable to take further action for day)
Things flicker before they die.
>>2507535
>3. Write in
Try and see the wall again.

>>2507535
>do another pass at the wall
Not like we have anything to do anyway

Charles
Keep practicing mage sight

I just noticed. It's unclear which of the results were nat crit and which was success.
The flickering might as well have been the nat success.

>>2507542
kind of the point ey? Perhaps without both Charles wouldn't have seen anything out of the ordinary.

I treat a crit fail as a freak event.

>>2507535
Henry sighed, he didn’t have much else to do today, might as well make sure that this job was done right, besides it’d give the kid more practice.

“Charles, we’re gonna make one more pass around the rune wall. Alright?” Henry said. “I want you to take the lead of course, get some more practice in.”

“Yes sir!” Charles said, running into the lead.

“Just make sure to take your time!” Henry called out, making sure the kid didn’t get out of sight.

The trip around the wall was a bit quicker this time, but Henry found that it was still taking up a good deal of time. He hoped that Charles was taking his ‘lessons’ to heart, but honestly he had no real idea what he was doing, he was honestly shocked that Charles was having such an easy time with mage sight, it reminded Henry of himself in a way, although Charles had had a far easier childhood, even with the parental abandonment issues.

“Something the matter sir?” Johnny asked. “A second pass should be unnecessary.”

“I want him to train a bit more, that’s all.” Henry said.

“Your nervous about something, I’ve known you long enough to tell.” Johnny replied.

“It’s nothing” Henry said, ending the conversation.

Decision: (will be heading back into the holy ground to get paid)
1. Say something to Charles
2. Say something to Johnny
3. Write in

>>2507548
Talk to Charles. "did you see anything out of the ordinary?"

Maybe try our own mage sight once before going

>>2507548
calling it a night, get yer votes in for tomorrow!

>>2507548
still waiting for some votes if anyone is around, otherwise I'll begin writing in a few minutes.

>>2507550
This is alright.

>>2507548
“Did you see anything unusual during your second pass?” Henry asked.

“No, it looked normal.” Charles replied. “Doesn’t make me less nervous though.”

“Look, even if the rune is faulty, the town still has a big strong wooden gate and some log walls, even a horde of zombies won’t be breaking through that.” Henry replied. “It’s a hell of a lot safer than taking our chances out in the farmlands I’d say. A roadside shrine won’t stop a few hundred undead from breaking in.”

Henry used his own mage sight to view the wall. Unlike Charles he could see the thing in far more detail. The wall had runic patterns and swirls of mana flowing all over it, making a lovely tapestry of white colors, invisible to most people. There were also patterns of feathers at points, further illustrating the magic’s connection to angels.

+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

The trip to the holy grounds was brief, a lot of the farmers who’d come into town for the day were departing now, some casting worried glances over their shoulders. Henry didn’t blame them, the farmlands were pretty dangerous now, what with all the lurking undead, and a lot of the outlying settlements would have much weaker rune walls. If a horde attacked any of them unawares it could be trouble.

Lar was still sitting down in the offices when Henry got back. Their conversation was brief, just Henry confirming the runes were undamaged and receiving his payment, a couple of silver coins for meals.

As Henry departed he noticed that the angry man from before was gone, he figured the man would be heading home with the other farmers, good riddance, guy like him could spell trouble. Henry felt a pair of eyes on his back as well, spinning around he saw Rosa sitting under the shade of an old maple tree, she was holding a book in her hands. Had she been praying?

Regardless Henry didn’t like being watched, he’d gotten plenty of beatings in life after getting watched, and his history with Rosa wasn’t the greatest.

Decisions:
1. Try to ignore her
2. Confront her (feel free to write in how)

>>2509391
>1. Try to ignore her

>>2509391
>1. Try to ignore her

>>2509452
>>2509406
writing!

>>2509391
Henry tried to avoid her gaze, he really didn’t need the most suspicious person in town having more dirt to bury him with. He also wondered if her being a monk had to do with her oh so lovely personality. As he left he cast one last glance back into the holy grounds, Rosa had gone back to reading her book.

The day was short and sunlight was precious, there wasn’t too much left to do, Charles and Johnny were waiting outside the Holy Ground’s stone gate, and both were looking at Henry expectantly. He was the de facto leader of their little group after all.

“Do you suppose we should lend a hand in the investigation?” Johnny asked.

“Fuck no, I’m not risking my neck unless I’m getting paid for it at the very least.” Henry replied. “Sides we got enough of our own problems to deal with, at daybreak tomorrow we’re heading out for Yorkshire. Then we can finish this little trip.”

Decision:
1. Head to tavern to get some more drinks in, and spend some of your hard earned coin
2. Go to sleep, you’ve earned it
3. Train with Charles some more, maybe explain how your bolt spell works
4. Get some sword practice in with Johnny, you do want to break your new sword in
5. Explore the town a bit a more, you’ve only stuck the main street so far

>>2509526
Did we report to Lar and tell him all the runes were operational?

>>2509539
yes we did, literally 2 posts ago

>>2509556
...
Damn
I guess we did.

>>2509526
>4. Get some sword practice in with Johnny, you do want to break your new sword in
And we wank to be around comrades.

>>2509584
Grab Charles too. Let's have group practice

>>2509614
Good idea.
Charles can watch us, then Johnny can train him some when we're out of breath.

>>2509619
>>2509614
writing!

File: spartan-wooden-practice-sword.jpg (83 KB, 800x800)

83 KB JPG

>>2509526
“You’ve been giving the kid a bit too much attention Johnny, I want to have a sparing session with ya.” Henry said. “You still carry around those wooden swords right?” Henry asked.

“I won’t go easy on you just because someone is watching boy.” Johnny replied.

As the group headed towards the gate and outside of town, Johnny ducked into the inn to retrieve a couple of light wooden swords. Johnny had never known how to hold back, and the old bastard was liable to lop off an arm if he used an actual sword while training. So Henry always kept a pair of these on hand. Sure it wasn’t a great allocation of weight, but Henry wasn’t a professional traveler. Man had to stay sharp with something blunt.

As Henry and Charles waited by the inn, they heard a commotion break out in the nearby tavern, a bar fight or something had broken out, and Clarence the Cathar had just stumbled out and collapsed on the ground, seemingly dazed and confused. A few moments later he cursed and stood back up, no worse for wear, before heading back inside to hopefully break it up.

As the group began to walk outside of the Hamlet gates’ Henry took a look back. A couple of people were being led out of the bar in chains. Henry recognized one of them, the same angry man who had been pacing around outside of the church, and… a woman? Durance, Clarence, and a third as yet unknown Cathar were leading them out, Clarence occasionally yanking at the chains to keep the moving. Clarence and the other Cathar had some bruises and cuts but Durance had some scorch marks on him, Henry assumed one of the pair had been a mage. He figured they’d all be requiring Rosa’s services.

++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++=

Henry, Johnny, and Charles found a nice spot of field to train on, the sun was setting now but Henry figured he would have a good amount of time to practice before the moonrise forced them back into the relative safety of the city. Charles sat on a rock watching every move of the two men.

“Feel free to start whenever you wish boy.” Johnny called out. His voice muffled only slightly by his helmet.

Decision:
1. Throw your sword at him
2. Try to fight him honorably (roll 80 or higher)
3. Use magic against him (write what spell)
4. Throw sand at his face
5. Write in

Rolled 21 (1d100)

>>2509695
>2. Try to fight him honorably (roll 80 or higher)
I'm gonna regret this roll.

Rolled 67 (1d100)

>>2509695
>2. Try to fight him honorably (roll 80 or higher)
Here goes.

Rolled 77 (1d100)

>>2509705
>>2509718
Here, a nat 100

>>2509727
>77
At least we don't suck that bad.

>>2509731
Op takes only first two though

>>2509747
Oh, that's right.

>>2509705
>>2509718
we don't do awful, but Johnny is a beast in combat.

>>2509695
The training session went… well it didn’t go awful, Henry actually managed to land a few hits in before being pummeled into the ground. It hurt, although his pride didn’t hurt too much, honestly. Johnny had several hundred years of practice. Henry had… a decade maybe? After the umpteenth time being bashed by the wooden sword, Henry finally dropped it and threw his hands up in mock surrender. It didn’t help, Johnny still landed a blow against Henry’s flank, sending him to the ground.


“He was surrendering!” Charles said.


“I know that he was preparing a bolt spell, weren’t you Henry.” Johnny said.


“Fuck… you…” Henry wheezed. His bruises had bruises. He wasn’t too sore, in all seriousness. Johnny knew how to hold back, but only his strength, not his skill. The skeleton could run loops among most mortals. Henry included.


“Another round boy?”
“Fuck…” Henry said. “No, I’m beaten enough for today you old fuck.” Henry said.


“Hopefully you learned how to make a proper fool of yourself Charles, Henry is an excellent teacher at that!” Johnny said jokingly. “Do you need help walking back Henry?” Johnny asked, true concern in his voice now, at least the skeleton had a heart, so to speak.


“No, I’m not that bad off.”
Decisions:

1. Train further (roll)(will get dangerously close to nighttime)
2. Head for bed
3. Write in

>>2509805
Head to bed. Grab some meal if we can.

>>2509805
>2. Head for bed
Sleep is good.

>>2509805
>2. Head for bed
Get some grub before heading off to sleep. Anyone got any suggestions?

>>2509823
>>2509819
>>2509817
gonna start writing but I'll check back in to see if you boys get any ideas

>>2509805
“I’m done Johhny.” Henry said. “I’m just going to go to bed and sleep these bruises off, I sure as hell am not going back to see that healer either.”

“Do as you wish.” Johnny said, “Come Charles, lets head back!”

“Yes sirs!” Charles replied, jumping of his rocky seat and scrambling over to them.

The group quickly made its way back into town, and into the inn, the town was fairly quiet now, no real commotion. There was a lone Cathar guarding the gate, in one of the guard towers. Henry hadn’t noticed before but a large bell hung from the top of it, probably a warning system.

Nobody was in the streets at this time of day, people probably wanted to just out of moonlight, Henry didn’t blame them, it was bad luck to walk the streets at night, if you could call these dirt walkways streets. A couple of torches hung from the Holy Grounds gate, and the gate was closed for the night.

Overall, a peaceful end to a peaceful day.

==========================(A few hours later)==========================

A lone Cathar sat vigil in his small, ramshackle little wooden guard tower, gazing down into the farmland below, bored out of his mind. He could see the wall shimmering in the distance, then occasionally flicker… wait a tick, that wasn’t right was it?

He continued to keep watch, and he could’ve sworn there weren’t supposed to be … that many… oh no…

===========================(END OF CHAPTER)===========================


>remember that part where I said the kid gloves come off, well guess what.

>>2509848
Thanks for running!

>>2509862
> 2. Try to get a better look to see how fucked things

Avoid getting caught in the press.

>>2509864
>2. Try to get a better look to see how fucked things

File: download.jpg (7 KB, 263x192)

7 KB JPG

>>2509848
“Feeding an army of men is a matter of logistics. Feeding an army of ghouls is a matter of course.” ~ Raz, Ghoulcaller

===========================(Chapter Start)============================

Henry was awoken by the sounds of a bell ringing wildly from the town gate. That could only mean one thing. They were in the middle of a shitstorm.

Henry quickly bolted up and started gathering his things. Johnny had done the same, minus the jumping up from bed part. Both had been ready for this the second they had arrived in the town, Henry had just had a gut feeling, something he couldn’t prove. He fucking hated being right all the time. At this point everyone would be heading towards the inner wall, the holy grounds. Henry didn’t give much thought to anything else right now. Panic and fear gave way to a strong survival instinct. He could hear panicked shouts all across town as a few dozen people did the exact same thing he was doing.

Johnny didn’t even bother waking Charles up, simply slinging the child over a shoulder and quickly carrying him with them.

Decisions:

1. Head to the holy grounds
2. Try to get a better look to see how fucked things
3. Try to board up in the inn
4. Write in

>sorry about that, I wanted the post to be perfect