>>2993242
The dynamic duo switched to mage sight and began to search around the docks for anything suspicious. Eventually Henry found a location where there was a lot of aether in the air, signifying that spells had been cast recently, Henry guessed about a day ago.

The location was a crossroads with canals, a bridge, and a couple of roads running parallel to each other, the air was heavy with aether, which meant that the interaction couldn’t have happened more than a day or two ago, which would fit their time frame.

“Seems to have been green mana…” Ophelia muttered, “white as well… probably two people…”

“Huh?” Henry asked. “You can see the colors?”

“You can’t?” Ophelia asked. “Another thing to lord over you with.”

“Please don’t.” Henry said. “That’d increase the total to one.”

“Well anyway, seems the green mana trail is a bit newer, and stationary, while the white arced from that corner over there

“The green is probably our pagan, but who the hell would know that she would be here?” Henry asked.

“Might be something else entirely.”

“Very few people in this town use green mana, Ophelia.” Henry said. “Hell I’d never even seen any before until recently.”

“Really? Do you live under a rock? You see plenty out in the countryside.”

“Look, we need to get a move on, can you track the source?” Henry asked. “White mana could be almost anyone. But it probably means the church is involved… fucking hell.”

>>2993245
“I’m going to use a scry spell to trace the aether trail back to its source.” Ophelia said, beginning to concentrate.

Henry barely had time to respond, but he gave it his best shot.

“The aether has been out in the open for almost a day now, how in the hell do you figure we’d trace it?”

He was promptly cut off by Ophelia pointing towards a set of factories and running off, leaving Henry to chase after her. Eventually the two came upon an odd sight. A smokestack that lay partially destroyed on the ground next to a much larger looming factory. Part of the wall had been torn up, and a couple of windows had been completely shattered, seemingly by the smokestack coming down. Henry grabbed a piece of cloth and placed it around his mouth, the fumes from the functional chimneys in the area were nauseating, even to him. The only other feature was an invasive series of vines that were somehow able to climb up the side of the factory.

Ophelia did something similar, grabbing a handkerchief out of a pocket. “Horrible weather.” She said.

“So do you mind explaining how you were able to trace day old aether?” Henry asked.

“Its easy, can’t anyone?” Ophelia said, completely unaware of the stunt she’d pulled.

“Uh… no, I can’t trace it at all, let alone after a day, hell the blue mages I know are only able to do it after like… eight to twelve hours? After that it’s over… least I thought.” Henry said, holding out his hand and wobbling it for effect.

“You must not know very talented people Ophelia said smugly.”

Either that or Ophelia was insanely talented… Henry was beginning to understand what made her so special, as much as he loathed to admit. He definitely needed to keep her around.

“We might need to pay Paulie a real visit, none of that skulking shit, I think he set the woman up.” Henry said.

Decisions:
1. Try to find a worker in the factory and ask what happened to the smokestack
2. Investigate the smokestack (roll 1d100)
3. Investigate the vines (roll 1d100)
4. “See anything around here Ophelia?”
5. Use mage sight and try to find something, you can’t let Ophelia get the better of you.
6. (write in)

>>2993288
>4. “See anything around here Ophelia?”
>3. Investigate the vines (roll 1d100)
Are those vines large and sturdy enough for someone to climb up them, and are they something that grows naturally around Celeste?

Hey LK. How you doin'?

Rolled 18 (1d100)

>>2993331
Damn it...

>>2993331
>>2993337
well they're vines and they're green, how's that for an answer?

Rolled 50 (1d100)

>>2993288
Backing >>2993331

Rolled 59 (1d100)

>>2993331

Rolled 32 (1d100)

>>2993288
>1. Try to find a worker in the factory and ask what happened to the smokestack
>2. Investigate the smokestack (roll 1d100)
>4. “See anything around here Ophelia?”
>5. Use mage sight and try to find something, you can’t let Ophelia get the better of you.

Look for the familiar black, residual red or blue.

>>2993349
DAMN YOU, VINES! TELL ME YOUR SECRETS!

>>2993358
>>2993352
thats a pass for the vines

>>2993361
close call failure for the pillar.

writing

>>2993288
Henry took a closer look at the vines, grabbing a hold of some of them and tugging. To his surprise they easily came off of the wall. They were slightly shriveled, like they’d grown overnight and had only started to die. Henry couldn’t imagine them growing here normally, the sun was blotted out most times. Only dim sunlight reached down into Shear Point due to the smoke. Without frequent Cathar patrols the place would be dangerous for a variety of reasons.

“See anything around here Ophelia?” Henry asked.

“Green mana resisdue in the aether, beyond that, nothing else. Seems the vines have something to do with it.”

Henry looked over to the pillar, eventually putting two and two together.

The vines must have caused the pillar to fall, but they seemed to just be normal vines, perhaps some sort of green mana spell was to blame? And why would Nessie’s cousin even do any of that… At that point Henry realized he hadn’t gotten the woman’s name. He’d just have to deal with it.


“So the vines broke the pillar?” Henry asked, rhetorically.


“Well obviously.” Ophelia responded. “It should be obvious.”

Henry went over to the smokestack once more, but nothing seemed out of place.

Decisions:
1. Head over to the local lockup
2. Grab a brick from the smokestack, might as well hang on to some evidence.
3. Grab some vines, won’t be much good for stew with them being out in the foul air so long, but they might make a nice dye for writing. You’ve always wanted some green ink.
4. *speak to Ophelia* (write in)
5. *preform an action (write in)

>>2993483
>2. Grab a brick from the smokestack, might as well hang on to some evidence.
>3. Grab some vines, won’t be much good for stew with them being out in the foul air so long, but they might make a nice dye for writing. You’ve always wanted some green ink.
Can we use a scry spell to see the events that created the vines?

>>2993488
we don't have a scry spell...

>>2993483
>2. Grab a brick from the smokestack, might as well hang on to some evidence.
>3. Grab some vines, won’t be much good for stew with them being out in the foul air so long, but they might make a nice dye for writing. You’ve always wanted some green ink.
Grab a brick, in case we need to throw one into a window or bash someone unconscious.

>>2993483
>2. Grab a brick from the smokestack, might as well hang on to some evidence.
>3. Grab some vines, won’t be much good for stew with them being out in the foul air so long, but they might make a nice dye for writing. You’ve always wanted some green ink.

>>2993491
>>2993488
>>2993495
writing

>>2993483
Henry grabbed a couple of things, a brick from the smokestack, and some of the vines from the wall. He glanced back at Ophelia, the woman was giving him a disapproving look.

“Becoming a hoarder now?”

“Gathering evidence, you never know when some of this stuff might be useful.” Henry said. “Sides the vines are something I’ve never seen before around here, they might make a nice dye.”

“Going to make some new clothing?”

“Maybe I am, Johnny needs some new threads.” Henry replied.

“That getup you had for him was shoddy, I’m going to make something proper for you.” Ophelia said.

“Well isn’t that nice.”

“I refuse to let ‘my boss’ do any shoddy work.” Ophelia said. “Especially if I’m apparently in your employ. I may detest you but it’s a matter of pride.”

“How nice.” Henry said, smiling. “Though you probably shouldn’t say that out loud when there’s nobody around, just a thought.”

Ophelia glanced around before backing away a little.

“Really need to learn how to talk, you’re horrible at it.” Henry said to her.

“I don’t need your help.” Ophelia muttered.
“Never offered it, anywho we should get moving.” Henry said, ending the conversation.

Decisions:
1. Head down to the Shear Point Lock Up
2. Head into the factory and see if you can find out the cause of the chimney collapse.
3. Head back home to gather supplies (will take approx. 2 hours)(Write in supplies)
4. *speak to Ophelia* (write in)
5. *Preform an action* (write in)

>>2993569
>2. Head into the factory and see if you can find out the cause of the chimney collapse.
4. *speak to Ophelia* (write in)
How good are you at scrying?

>>2993569
Backing >>2993570

>>2993570
>>2993573
writing last post of the night!

>>2993569
“So how good are you at scrying, exactly?” Henry asked as the two made their way towards the factories entrance.

“So-so I’d say, although apparently I’m amazing at it if you’re anything to go off of.”

“What kind of mage’s guild were you part of?” Henry asked.

“Oh no, I never belonged to any guild, I’m self-taught like you are!”

“Bullshit. Bull fuckin shit.”

“What… did I upset you?! How?!”

“No it’s not that… fucks sake, I don’t believe for a second you weren’t taught, scrying ain’t easy. If it was I’d be a master of it.”

“Or maybe you lack the talent for it.” Ophelia said. “N-not that that’s a bad thing…”

“Forget it, I’m not in the mood to get randomly angry right now.”

The two continued to walk along an outer wall that ringed an open courtyard next to the factory building. Henry stopped next to a small gatehouse that lay smack dab next to the entrance itself. The building had a few smogged up windows and a fairly bored looking gatekeeper inside. The man wasn’t a Cathar going off his robes, so Henry pegged him as some low wage private security type. Man would be far easier to bribe or muscle if it came to that. Although perhaps he could just ask for information…

Decisions:
1. *ask the man about what happened the chimney* (roll 1d100)
2. *Try to bribe the for info* (write in optional)
3. *try to threaten the guard* (write in optional)
4. *Speak to Ophelia (write in)
5. (write in)

Rolled 56 (1d100)

>>2993636
>1. *ask the man about what happened the chimney* (roll 1d100)
If this fails, let's look for the nearest beggar and see what some silver gets us.

Rolled 6 (1d100)

>>2993636
>1. *ask the man about what happened the chimney* (roll 1d100)

Rolled 41 (1d100)

>>2993636
>1. *ask the man about what happened the chimney* (roll 1d100)

>>2993659
big oof

>>2993656
>>2993988
this is a success but that near failure is gonna have an effect, will write later tonight

>>2993636
“Excuse me sir, I was wondering what happened to the chimney?” Henry innocuously asked.

“You and about fifteen other fackin people, can’t you read the god damned notice board?! Oh of course not, yer just some street punk who can’t work a real god damned job.” The guard responded. The man was clearly in a bad mood.

“Chimney collapse due to pagan attack?” Ophelia said, confused.

“What?” Henry asked.

“Says it right here on this posted notice, apparently the factory got hit by a bunch of pagans, bit of an odd target, apparently this place makes shoes.”

“How’d you figure that?” Henry asked.

“I read the signs above the guard house.” Ophelia responded.

“FINALLY SOMEONE ACTUALLY READS SOMETHING.” The guard responded.

“Fuckin hell, so our missing person attacked a factory? Is she fecking crazy?” Henry said, deciding to ignore the guard.

“Why the hell would anyone go out of their way to cause trouble like that, especially after they paid a man a fortune to sneak into the city? Even though Paulie probably scammed the poor girl.”

“Because most people are utter idiots.” Ophelia responded. “You have too much faith in people’s intelligence.”

“WELL FUCK YOU TOO MISSIE.” The guard said.

“Y’know, I didn’t think I was still capable of having faith in people, so that’s pretty reassuring actually.” Henry said, staring over at the guard house to make sure the foul tempered man didn’t come out.

Decisions:
1. *ask the guard a question* (write in)
2. Head out to another location (write in)
3. *speak to Ophelia* (write in)
4. (write in)
5. Cast Memory scatter on the guard (-1 blue mana, snapcast for 1.5)

>>2995685
>2. Head out to another location (write in)
Lets look for that little fuck, Paulie.
We can "inquire" about the whereabouts of the girl.

>>2995685
2. Head out to another location (write in)
First, let’s check in with Nessie to inform her about the situation, and to see if she wants to have a word with Paulie, and how coherent he needs to be, then grab some “tools” (rope, bandanna, large sack, and a blackjack) and pay him a visit...

>>2995872
>>2995685

Supporting this.

Glad you're back a!

>>2995685
Also shouty guard man is instantly my favourite character.

>>2995685
Backing >>2995872
>>2996671
Lorekeeper was always here, the fuck are you talking about?

...Did we just meet the father of Loud Cathar from the Werewolf Case?

>>2996877
>>2996681
>>2996673
>>2996671
>>2995872
>>2995727
took the night off, will write tomorrow!

>>2995685
The plan was fairly simple, as Henry explained to Ophelia. They needed to either subdue or otherwise incapacitate Paulie, which would be a problem given that Undertown had its curse. They wouldn’t be able to harm Paulie at all until he was outside the boundaries of the place. However, since he hadn’t been at his house when they’d been there, it was likely that he already was outside of Undertown. This presented a prime opportunity.

Henry turned a corner and started down the tunnel back to his house, cheering a tune to keep his mind off of the job he was very likely to have to perform. He noticed that the curtains had been parted and yet there was a strange blue light emitting from the inside of his house. This put him on edge, something was up. If the curtains were parted then there should be bright yellow light inside, not the dull blue glow that emitted from the interior.

He signaled to Ophelia to stop and sneak up with him, and dropped the tune, hopefully whoever was inside hadn’t noticed. He hoped Charles and Johnny hadn’t gotten back yet.

As he snuck up to the front entrance and peered inside, he saw Johnny’s bones laid out in a neat pile on his work table, along with the ragged getup he’d been wearing. Charles was unconscious, laying upon the bed with his hands and feet tightly bound with rope. He couldn’t see much else without blowing his cover.

Who the fuck would mess with him like this?

“Come in Henry, I know you’re out there. I’m the one with more experience skulking around in shadows… though I suppose you’re the one more experienced with skulking around in darkness.” A familiar voice echoed. It was a bit older… more sultry than he remembered, but he was sure about it. It was Sophie.

Decisions:
1. Head inside peacefully
2. Charge inside aggressively
3. Stay outside
Second Decision:
1. Bring Ophelia inside
2. Leave her outside but keep her on alert.

>>2997983
decided to write a post since I try to do at least one per night if I can, and I'm gonna stick around a bit longer for the hell of it, tho I doubt anyone's still her for tonight. Really need to be more responsible with this stuff.

>>2997983
>2. Charge inside aggressively
>>2997983
>1. Bring Ophelia inside
Once Sophie confronts us, she'll do so in short range combat cause as she said, she's skulky, have ophelia blast us both with a nondeadly spell.

>>2997983
>1. Head inside peacefully
>2. Leave her outside but keep her on alert.

We need to keep her talking so Ophelia can have a better shot at her.

>>2997999
Have her wait outside till we're been grabbed, then she bursts in and zapps us?
Mr. Trips

Going to bed for real now

>>2996671
I keep using a thread until it falls off the catalog. You might've been missing out on prior ones.

>>2997983
> 1. Head inside peacefully

> Bring Ophelia along

>>2997992
>>2997983
This plan for Ophelia, to be clear.

>>2997983
Backing >>2997999

>>2997992
>>2998303
aggressive


>>2997999
>>2998303
>>2998788
peaceful

>>2997983
“We’re going to head inside, let me do the talking.” Henry said, trying to sound as sure of himself as possible but in reality he was shaken.

How the fuck had she slipped inside like that AND incapacitated Johnny. Had the skeleton been having a ‘moment’? What an awful fucking time for him to reminisce.

Henry waved his dagger in front of the door frame, and when no arrow shot out at it he chanced a peak around the corner. There she was, sitting at the table, dressed in a fancy leather cap, a nice silk overcoat paired with a very fine gold necklace with an intricate lattice design in the center of it. Henry guessed that the inside of that held something special. She wore a fine pair of leather pants and a soft looking set of boots. He figured they were padded on the bottom to reduce noise as much as possible. She’d certainly gone up in the world hadn’t she.

From a first glance he found a lot of places she could be hiding a weapon, although he really doubted she was here to kill anyone. She’d never killed anyone, ever. Even if her life was on the line. Thief’s honor or something stupid like that. Even without his steady breathing, Henry knew Charles was unharmed. She’d probably cast a sleep spell or something like that, probably with a spell scroll or something similar. He knew she couldn’t use any magic directly anymore. A bit of a side effect of her condition, this of course gave him the advantage. But she probably knew that he knew…

He took a quick look around the room, nothing seemed out of place, and he had all of his gold with him, so nothing of value could be taken.

Beyond that, it looked like she really just wanted to talk, the woman had a paranoid streak just as big as him, maybe bigger. She’d probably planned for anything obvious he’d try to do…

“What the bloody hell?” Ophelia asked, looking at Sophie. “What’s… why… why is she invisible, why isn’t her clothing invisible if she’s invisible!?”

Oh… right, Ophelia didn’t know.

“So is she the new model?” Sophie asked. “I’ll have to detract some points for the wounds, but you didn’t do half bad I suppose.”

Decisions:
1. “I’m actually looking into a healer…”
2. “Her, god no, I’d rather be with a demon.”
3. “You insult me, I can do far better and you know that.”
4. “Was all of this really necessary?”
5. “I’m happy you’re alive and well.”
6. “Do you want to talk privately?”
7. (write in)

>>3000237
>7. (write in)
Look at her incredulously, women aren't goods to trade in at a moment's notice, even if I do trade in human bodies.

>>3000245
And>>3000237
>1. “I’m actually looking into a healer…”

>>3000245
>>3000250
writing

>>3000237
“I’m actually looking into a healer..” Henry muttered, nervously glancing around. This woman knew EXACTLY how to push his buttons and he despised it, but it also left him feeling nostalgic. They’d both used each other at times hadn’t they?

“EXCUSE ME?” Ophelia screeched. “NEW MODEL?! LIKE I’M JUST SOME TOY TO BE ACQUIRED OR DISCARDED AT A MOMENTS NOTICE?!”

“Calm down bandage girl, it was just a little joke.” Sophie said, placing her hands into her pocket.

“NO, I WON’T BE MOCKED BY SOME IDIOT WHO BARGES IN HERE UNINVITED AND THEN HAS THE GALL TO INSULT ME!”

Henry had a REALLY clever line, it involved how he dealt in human bodies but he didn’t see people as just interchangeable living ones… but honestly, this was one bomb rune he REALLY didn’t want to set off.

Ophelia huffed for a moment before realizing she was shouting.

“I uh… look, why are you here exactly?” Henry asked.

“Because you said you were willing to talk, I just happened to assume it would be privately.”

“You could’ve fucking sent me a message.” Henry said.

“Can’t, got a big job planned soon, hell I might even need your help with it if your still interested in big paydays.”

“Fucks sake, I see you for the first time in what, four years… right?”

“Nobody really sees her I’d imagine.” Ophelia snidely remarked.

“Oh so she DOES have a sense of humor.” Sophie said coyly. “What an utter treasure, you sure know how to pick them Henry.”

“That DOES IT, can I PLEASE cast something horrid on her, pretty please?” Opelia asked hopefully.

Decisions:
1. “Fuck it, why not, will take one headache off my hands.”
2. “I ain’t getting involved in this shit.”
3. “Can you please stop insulting her, it riles her up.”
4. *Wisely say nothing.*
5. “So Sophie… uh… how’ve you been?”
6. (write in)

>>3000358
>6. (write in)
It's not a fucking masquerade party is it?
For fucks sake, let it not be a masquerade party.
Go and get yoself a drink.

>>3000361
night

>>3000429
Night Lorekeeper

>>3000361
Backing.

>>3000358
Backing >>3000361

>>3000518
>>3000919
>>3000361

writing

>>3000358
“It’s not a fucking masquerade party is it?” Henry inquired.

“No… but that does sound intriguing.” Sophie said, “Perhaps I’ll have to ask around and drop by. Some sort of high society gathering I take it?”

“What are you even talking about?!” Ophelia asked.

“Forget it, please.” Henry said.

Henry walked over to his storage cabinet and came back with some purified water, he keep any alcohol worth drinking on hand, he’d found it was too much temptation. He offered some to both Ophelia and Sophie, and sat down at the table with the two of them.

Ophelia glanced nervously at Sophie, as if she was trying to discern her expression even though it was impossible. The woman was awful at keeping cool, and she was constantly fidgeting about. Sophie tried to say something a couple of times but Ophela’s behavior kept throwing her off.

“Should we just knock her out, or maybe put a leash on her and leave her outside? Can she keep still?”

“I’m right here you know!”

“Of course sweetie, but the grownups are talking right now.” Sophie shot back.

“I’m still learning how to keep her under control.” Henry said. “It isn’t exactly a walk in the park.”

“Happy to see you haven’t changed much.” Sophie said.

“Likewise.” Henry replied.

“Ugh.” Ophelia muttered. “Look, can either of you explain to me what the bloody hell is going on?”

Decisions:
1. “You can knock her out Sophie, will save me the trouble.”
2. “Can you both shut the fuck up for five seconds?”
3. “She’s an old flame of mine.”
4. “Well it’s nice to see you’re in good health, if nothing else.”
5. “No you will not knock my mechanist out.”

>>3001992
>5. “No you will not knock my mechanist out.”
>"While she might get inspiration from the concussion, I don't want her harmed, and I would prefer that you don't knock out my apprentice and Johnny either."

>>3001992
Backing >>3001998

>>3001998
>>3002000
writing

>>3001992
“No, you will not knock my mechanist out.” Henry slowly and calmy explained.

“Thank you, finally some sense!” Ophelia added.

“While she might get inspiration from the concussion, I don’t want her harmed, and I would prefer that you hadn’t knocked out my apprentice and Johnny either.”

“WHAT!?” Ophelia said. “How dare… ngh…”

“Oh please, I wouldn’t do anything nearly so violent or potentially lethal, I’d have used a blow dart or a gas trap or some such. I didn’t knock Johnny out, we both know he can’t be harmed like that and as for the boy what did you want me to do? He immediately went for a weapon when I poked my head in the door. It was either that or risking a wound of my own. I certainly wasn’t going to try arguing with him. Perhaps we should’ve planned this get together a bit better.”

“Perhaps.” Henry agreed.

“Look, I wanted to let you know I forgive you for everything Henry, I just wish you’d contacted me sooner… I… well. I’m probably one of the few people who knows everything about you, and I don’t want to change that… I just…” Sophie said, trying to find the words, she turned her head toward the side and sighed.

“Forget it, it’s nothing.”

“It has been a long time.” Henry replied.

“None of this makes any sense.” Ophelia said.

Decisions:
1. “Remember when we used to take those long walks in the woods together?”
2. “It almost worked out for us didn’t it?”
3. “I should have been more forceful, shouldn’t have let you try to steal that damned knife.”
4. “We need to both move past it, I’m just happy you don’t hate me.”
5. (write in)

>>3002067
>5. (write in)
Introductions.
Wake Charles up.
"Sarah, this is Sophie, Sophie, Sarah."
Explain to charles what happened.

>>3002067
Backing >>3002079 but also
>Feel a sense of pride in Charles because of this:
>"...and as for the boy what did you want me to do? He immediately went for a weapon when I poked my head in the door."

>>3002079
>>3002101
>>3002067
Third and seconding.

>>3002079
>>3002101
>>3002221
writing

>>3002067
Henry immediately felt a sense of pride in the fact that Charles had wasted no time in trying to gut an intruder, but looking back he probably should’ve warned him. Probably, not like he’d known sophie’d show in person so soon.

“Henry stood up and walked over to where Charles was.”

“No use doing that champ, used a sleep scroll on him, won’t be awake for a couple hours minimum.”

Like Charles didn’t sleep enough already.

“Should’ve figured you wouldn’t take chances.” Henry said, walking back over to the table and taking a seat.

“Was that really necessary, on a mere child?” Ophelia asked.

“A mere child with a blade and intent to use it.. good work on that by the way Henry, he showed only a little hesitation. He would never of reached me in time but it was a good show.”

“If it was real he’d probably be dead.” Henry responded.

“What was it you used to say… easy come easy go?” Sophie responded.

Henry grit his teeth, the woman’s words were honey but he got the sense she’d not completely forgiven him. His heart was… well it was in turmoil, he still cared about Sophie, even despite his best efforts and her present behavior. Still, it was nice to see… be in her presence again, if only in a tense state of affairs for a limited amount of time.

“So this job of yours, what’s the deal with it?”

“Breaking into some castle to steal some jewel, nothing special, though the pay is decent.” Sohpie said. “Shouldn’t take more than a couple hours, even with security.”

“I’d expect no less.”

“Why are we talking this nicely with a common crook?” Ophelia muttered.

“I’m not just some crook, and I’m certainly not common dearie.” Sophie mused. “I’m an artist, much like you are I’d imagine.”

“Don’t you DARE compare me to you.” Ophelia retorted.

“Ladies please.” Henry said, trying to calm tensions.

“Henry, I don’t know exactly how to relay this with… present company… I’m sure you’re aware with the problems at the church correct?”

“Yes I’m acquainted, seems the high seraph took a vacation.”

“She wasn’t the only one.” Sophie responded. The woman interlocked her gloved fingers and leaned in, Henry got the sense she was uneasy.

“You know who went missing too.”

Decisions:
1. “No fucking way.”
2. “What the fuck are you talking about.”
3. “What, then what are THEY doing about it?”
4. “On second thought maybe you should knock Ophelia out.”
5. (write in)

>>3002694
>1. “No fucking way.”
>3. “What, then what are THEY doing about it?”

>>3002746
writing

>>3002746
backing.

Wonder if this has anything to do with the Spider attacks.

>>3002694
Time slowed down, seconds ticked by like months. Abraxas was gone?! What the fuck? Henry tried going down a list of possibilities in his head, he didn’t believe it, couldn’t believe it, was he free? Truly? Of course not, some other demon would’ve… wait… there was no line of succession. If Abraxas was truly gone, then there would be massive amounts of infighting.

“What are THEY doing about it?” Henry asked.

“As of now? Nothing at all, zip, zero. That’s making me nervous as all hell Henry, there has been no change in any of their behavior. That means this was planned or they had already planned for this turn of events, which means that nobody but them knows what’s going on… you’re the only one who’d have a shot at finding out.

“No.” Henry said.

“No?” Sophie asked.

“If you ask me again I will kill you, Sophie.” Henry said, gripping onto the arms of his chair until his knuckles turned white.

“Finally something we can agree on.” Ophelia said.

“Ophelia, shut the fuck up.” Henry retorted.

“What did I do?” Ophelia said angrily.

Henry gave her a stare that could stop hearts, by the way Ophelia clutched at her chest maybe he had.

“I will NEVER return there, Sophie.”
“You did once, for me.” Sophie said.

“Don’t you FUCKING dare, Sophie.” Henry said, “I will not allow guilt to drag me back, I’m out, free.”

“Free?” Sophie said. “None of us are free Henry.”

“Not that fate bullshit again.” Henry said.

“Look, right now no major party is making a move, but for how long? What’s the big plan, we… I need to know.” Sophie said. Henry took note of the way she’d paused when using ‘we’

Decisions:
1. “Who is ‘we’.”
2. “I don’t give two shits about any of this, get the fuck out of my house damn it.”
3. “Sophie, the past is past, don’t dig it up now that it’s good and buried.”
4. “Keep staring into a mirror, maybe the person staring back will finally change.”
5. (write in)

>>3002815
>3. “Sophie, the past is past, don’t dig it up now that it’s good and buried.”

>>3002855
night

>>3002815
>4. “Keep staring into a mirror, maybe the person staring back will finally change.”

Silently pray for the apocalypse.

>>3002815
Backing >>3003204

>>3002855
>>3003204
>>3003335
writing

>>3005225
Nice.

>>3002815
“The past is the past, don’t dig it up now that it’s good and buried.” Henry said.

“Funny coming from a necromancer.” Sophie replied. “Hilarious in fact.”

“Keep staring into that mirror you carry around with you Sophie, maybe the person staring back will finally change. We both got away alive from that little stunt you pulled four years back. Let’s not repeat it, or do anything like it ever again.”

“Henry, I have changed, you just haven’t taken the time to notice.” Sophie replied. “But you still hide away down here, doing what? What new scheme have you come up with now? Don’t you want to do some good for a change?”

“Is that who this ‘we’ is?” Ophelia asked, causing Sophie to turn to her in surpise.

“Perceptive one aren’t you.”

“Who are you working with?” Henry asked.

“Neither of your concern.”

“Now you’re the one keeping secrets from me Sophie. We haven’t’ really changed have we? We’ve just flipped positions.”
“Fine, look, I was hoping our relationship still meant something-“

“It does Sophie, but… not like this.”

“Not like what? Don’t you want to do some good for a change?”

Decisions:
1. “We’re done talking Sophie.”
2. “Do you know anything about the spider?”
3. “Nothing good will come of going back there, period.”
4. “If you want to throw your life away its on you, Sophie.”
5. “We haven't spoken in five years, and this is what you want to talk about.”

>>3005252
No write in?

>>3005260
just assume its there.

>>3005263
Aight
>>3005252
"Good. Good for who? Good for your pockets, good for the highest bidder?"
"I'm truthfully tired of almost dying. I just want to be safe and live a calm like."

>>3005252
> 3. “Nothing good will come of going back there, period.”

We're doing good. We're helping people. We helped stop zombie swarms and murderbots. We're looking after an orphaned idiot child, and also Charles.

We got people to leave behind if we die now, so we gotta focus on making things actually better for people and not just throwing our lives away.

She should try it sometime, it's only mostly awful.

>>3005252

>3. “Nothing good will come of going back there, period.”

"I've been doing some good out in the world. Maybe not as much as is needed, but some little bit. And I'm trying to think of ways to prepare or take a bite out of THEM. Meanwhile I need to make it day by day with the skills I have. And there are 5 jobs I already have piled up - 2 of which stink in the worst ways and one that only stinks a little. And now you have some offer of big trouble with unknown factors? Lemme ask you something:
>2. “Do you know anything about the Spider?”

>>3005285
>>3005279
writing

>>3005252
“Nothing good will come of going back there, period.” Henry said, “Nothing good at all, I don’t know how the hell you can take this so lightly now Sophie, maybe you’ve gone mad, I don’t know.”

“I’m the one who’s mad? I want more information before the world starts falling apart Henry, maybe there is a way to stop or reverse this, who knows. Maybe nothing will come of it in the end. But regardless things are only going to get worse, and maybe now is the time for us both to do some good in our lives.”

“Good, good for who? Good for your pockets or the highest bidder like it always was, doesn’t matter what sort of dangerous thing you’re stealing or whose getting a hold of it Sophie, never did fucking matter.”

“Like you were ever any better. Supplying monsters to madmen and blood barons and criminals, things that were used to kill others and cause misery.” Sophie said, with a tinge of sadness in her voice. “It’s why things worked out so well between us, we understood how the world worked. We could be in control Henry, no more running, maybe we’d be in a position to help people for once in our lives.”

“I’m finally turning things around Sophie, I’m helping people, maybe not like some Hero but I’ve actually saved people’s lives, made the world a better place or whatever the hell, not go off on some suicidal flight of fancy. I’m truthfully tired of almost dying, I just want to be safe and live a calm life.”

>>3005345
Happy Halloween! I'm out and about but I wanted to chime in that I'll be reading later.

>>3005342
“We both know that’s an utter lie Henry, you enjoy almost dying, you just pretend to hate it. You’ve never given your life any worth, unlike the church says you never pretended it had any, that’s why I respected you… loved you……” Sophie paused for a moment, grabbing a cloth from her pocket and wiping it over where her face would be. “Every time you almost died, I never understood why back then, but I saw that thrill on your face. But now that I know everything, I know that you never got away from them, and he still owns you until you accept the past, stop trying to run from it. Your life has value Henry. Maybe we could… maybe we could make things right?”

“Your words are sweet but you’re just vile.” Ophelia said. “Of course our lives have value, we’re not some useless idiots moping about wishing the world was different, he’s made something out of his life, unlike you!”

“You know nothing about any of this, and quite frankly you’re the idiot.” Sophie shot back.

Ophelia glared at her, “You’re not much better Henry, I can see why you got along with her so well.”

“What are you on about?” Henry asked.

“Your words.. their just vanity and ego dressed up as compassion.” Ophelia muttered, “You said the same sort of things to me you know, apparently this is making my life better.”

“It is Ophelia, would you rather have been used by whatever sociopath could whisper honey into your ear and place a few coins into your palm, at least now you have some control over things.”

Ophelia merely glared at him. Sophie paused before continuing.

“Look, Henry, let’s just drop it, we’re not going to convince each other of anything.”

“Fine.” Henry said, sighing. “Look, do you know anything about the Spider?”

“All I know is that she’s been hitting our mutual enemies as well as your backer’s people. She has connections to someone from the north as well from what I understand, I assume Vermillion set you up to this?”

Decisions:
1. “Why the hell would Vermillion get me involved?”
2. “I ended up in possession of one of her creations and nearly died, I didn’t like that.”
3. “I’m a nosy piece of a shit and I want to make the neighborhood safer.”
4. (write in)

>>3005392
>2. “I ended up in possession of one of her creations and nearly died, I didn’t like that.”
>1. “Why the hell would Vermillion get me involved? First I'm hearing of him being on the receiving end of these too.”

>>3005392
>2. “I ended up in possession of one of her creations and nearly died, I didn’t like that.”
>"Vermillion? Hmm..."

>>3005422
>>3005404
writing

>>3005392
Is this a known factor "her" or just convention as he/ she?

>>3005392
“I ended up in possession of one of her creations and nearly died, I didn’t like that.”

“Oh revenge, a tale as old as time itself.” Sophie said, “I understand completely. Well I suppose that’s settled then, few who cross you live long lives.”

“Why the hell would Vermillion get me involved at all? First I’m hearing of hime being on the receiving end of these attacks.”

“Not him directly, some of his people, a couple of suppliers, some of his pet nobles, that sort of thing. Seems to be some sort of gangland squabble, or it would be if a few members of you know who hadn’t been hit, but the odd thing is they haven’t responded. Perhaps something more is going on, I don’t really know.”

“Or they are having issues tracking her down?” Ophelia asked.

Sophie and Henry shared a glance before both continued like Ophelia had never spoken.

“Look, one thing I do know is that she’s extremely dangerous, apparently Vermillion’s goons weren’t able to catch her, which is troubling in of itself. Nobody even knows exactly what she looks like, which means she’s using some strong magic. Overall I don’t have all the pieces, and I don’t have the scratch to afford more information.”

“Useless.” Ophelia muttered.

“Such a lovely assistant.” Sophie murmured.

Decisions:
1. “Well it’s been nice having you over, but I have work to do.”
2. “Maybe we can talk again some time Sophie, and not be at each other’s throats.”
3. “You can leave now.”
4. (write in)

>>3005525
>1. “Well it’s been nice having you over, but I have work to do.”
Next time, please don't disable my friends.

>>3005550
calling it a night

>>3005466
The spider is a she based on Sophie's information

>>3005525
> 2. “Maybe we can talk again some time Sophie, and not be at each other’s throats.”

Or not at our throat

>>3005525
Backing >>3005550

>>3005550
>>3005834
>>3006299
writing

>>3005525
“Well it’s been nice having you over, but I have work to do.”

“Well I’ll try to stop by sometime later on, perhaps in a week or so, maybe we could have tea and reminisce.” Sophie replied.

“Next time don’t disable my friends.”

“Your friend, Johnny was already disabled!” Sophie whimsically replied as she left Henry’s house.

“What a weirdo.” Ophelia murmured.

“Coming from a woman with half her face burnt off.”

“Burnt off?” Ophelia asked, terrified.

“Calm down I’m just messing with you.”

“Don’t do that.” Ophelia said, looking over the room. “That horrible woman didn’t steal anything did she?”

“Doubtful, nothing here worth stealing apart from a few blueprints, and I’d know she’d have done it.” Henry replied.

Decisions:
1. Help Ophelia get further set up in her new home
2. Head out to talk to Vermillion about preparations for the party
3. Continue the investigation, Paulie is probably somewhere in Undertown, Nessie might have an idea of where.
4. (write in)

>>3008958
>4. (write in)
Reconstruct Johnny and have him watch over Charles, and let charles know he did good.
Ask Ophelia if she needs help changing bandages, only if they need changing.

>>3008958
backing >>3008977

>>3009008
>>3008977
writing

>>3008958
Henry walked up to where Johnny’s pile was. The skeleton had seemingly collapsed all on his own, the main issue was that Henry wasn’t sure if he’d be able to wake the skeleton up or if he’d just have to get by without him for the time being. He sent a small bolt of black mana into the skeleton to no avail. The guy was down for the count. Whatever memory Johnny was reliving would have to be played to completion. Hopefully it wasn’t a long one.

“Does nothing around here function properly?” Ophelia asked.

“Just stop, alright?” Henry said, sighing. “Look, do you want me to change your bandages in the meantime? Least I can do until Johnny pops back upright.”

“If you must, but no peaking.” Ophelia muttered. “Can we do it in my chamber? I don’t want the boy waking up and seeing me. In fact it would be best if I could do this myself.”

“So you do comprehend modesty.” Henry said, grabbing some fresh bandages from a cupboard and following Ophelia back to the chamber that they’d set up for her. “It’s a shame that you can’t do this yourself because it’s a pain in the ass.”

The chamber was in much better shape than when Henry had started out with it. All of the rubble had been cleared away and the place had been cleanly swept. The bricks still had a dampness to them, but that would be fixed by adding a proper set of curtains to the doorway. Ophelia’s bed sat in one corner while a shoddy desk sat on the other end of the room, cobbled together out of scraps of wood. All along the walls were blueprints and mathematic equations, many of which seemed to be utter junk. Others seemed to describe things Henry could only dream of, and many he couldn’t comprehend.

“So get on with it then.” Ophelia said, grabbing the blanket off her bed and wrapped herself in it. The women was fairly embarrassed.

Henry set to work, slowly taking the bandages off of Ophelia’s face, upper torso, and arms. The work was made difficult by Ophelia’s insistence on keeping herself covered with both the blanket and her own clothing. Working on living bodies was a pain in the ass.

“So how is my face? Not too damaged?” Ophelia asked with more than a touch of concern.

Deicisons:
1. “It’s godawful.”
2. “It’ll heal, but leave a hell of a mark.”
3. “It should heal and only leave some slight discoloration, you got off lucky honestly.”
4. “It’ll heal up fine, you should thank whichever angel was looking after you.”
5. “How the hell did you even manage to survive that barrage? The wall behind you got obliterated.”
6. (Write in)

>>3009060
>3. “It should heal and only leave some slight discoloration, you got off lucky honestly.”
"And is there anything you need for your room, something that isn't ink, paper, or quills?

>>3009060
Backing >>3009079

>>3009087
>>3009079
writing

>>3009060
“It should heal and only leave some slight discoloration. In all honest you got off lucky.”

“How. Bad.” Ophelia said, grabbing hold of Henrys hand and squeezing until it hurt a little.

“Calm down, it shouldn’t be too noticeable unless someone is looking closely enough, and it should fade over time too.”

“Thank god.” Ophelia said, slumping back down onto her bed, relived. “I thought I’d be a freak for the rest of my life.”

“Yeah…” Henry muttered, finishing up his work and giving Ophelia one last look over. Her arm had healed fairly well, and the rest of her was well on the way. She’d be fully recovered by the end of the week, barring acts of god of course.

“Is there anything you need for your room, something that isn’t ink, paper, or quills?” Henry asked.

Ophelia thought for a moment, “A proper desk would be nice, and I have plenty of paper, ink, and quills now… some new clothes and a dresser would be lovely, and a drafting table for further blueprints…”

Decision by Ophelia:
1. “Some stones to make runes with, I don’t trust those made by other people.”
2. “A bookcase and some actual books, maybe you could spare me a few from your collection, least you could do for me.”
3. “A table and some chairs, maybe some cookware too.”
4. “I need some magical components for alchemical experiments” (write in optional)
5. “I want a nice piece of marble to use as an enchanting table.”
6. (write in)

>>3009154
just a heads up you can choose multiple

>>3009148
>1. “Some stones to make runes with, I don’t trust those made by other people.”
>2. “A bookcase and some actual books, maybe you could spare me a few from your collection, least you could do for me.”
>3. “A table and some chairs, maybe some cookware too.”
>4. “I need some magical components for alchemical experiments” (write in optional)
>5. “I want a nice piece of marble to use as an enchanting table.”
>>3009174
Aight

>>3009148
Backing >>3009183

>>3009183
>>3009222
will write in a bit

>>3009148
Ophelia’s eyes lit up and she was full of energy once more. She leapt out of bed and giddily ran over to a section of the chamber’s rounded walls. Displayed there was a neat list with about a dozen different bullet points on it. Quite impressive considering the stone bricks were in no way even or flush against one another.

“First off I want some good stones to make some proper runes, I don’t trust those made by other people.”

“Shouldn’t be too difficu-“

“I want a bookcase and some actual books, maybe you could spare me a few from your collection, least you could do for me. I want access to a good newspaper too.”

“Furniture’s easy, and you can just go get a newspaper on your ow-“

“I want a table and some chairs for sitting and reading… maybe some cookware too if you can find the time to get it.”

“Okay…” Henry replied, beginning to regret everything

“I need a good bit of magical components on hand for alchemical experiments; I have a list on paper of everything I’d need. Some bottles and jars to preserve organic elements too…”

“Nothing too expensive I hope.”

“And I want a nice piece of marble to use as an enchanting table.”

“You’ll have to do that with your own money Ophelia, the ground of this chamber works plenty well for necromancy. It’s a hardy art and isn’t something that needs to be too delicate.”

>>3009531

“For my experiments I demand the best!” Ophelia said with a flash of annoyance. “I do NOT want a repeat of last time, and to ensure that I need proper equipment.”

“So a big flat surface?” Henry muttered. He decided to ignore the woman’s ignorance. From what Henry could tell of Ticky, the main issue was that there had been no binding circle. Otherwise the creation should have at least preformed like a common freshly dug up zombie, albeit a good deal sturdier and completely rot resistant.

Ophelia glanced at Henry for a second before returning to her list.

“Not just some flat surface. Marble is the absolute best thing to enchant on, polished marble I mean, doesn’t have to be a flat square but it needs a flat surface and a fine grain.”

“That’s some high mage mumbo jumbo and you know it.” Henry said. “Marble doesn’t even make that big a difference.”

“Not surprising for someone who just digs up bodies and jams corpses together for a living.”

“I generally don’t just grave-dig, I actually make quite a few complicated creations. I’ve even dabbled into stich-craft.”

“You’ve made franks?!” Ophelia said, excited again.

“And complex undead, you were emulating simple necromancy from what I saw, not surprising since that’s probably all you had access to.”

“Teach me!” Ophelia begged. “I need to know everything! I need to be able to make what’s in my mind!”

Decisions:
1. “First off, stop being creepy, second off, we aren’t doing jack till you’ve healed off and I’ve got both willing customers and a supply line established.”
2. “Okay… sure, whatever.”
3. “I ain’t teaching you a damned thing.”
4. “If I have some time to spare, sure.”

>>3009537
1. “First off, stop being creepy, second off, we aren’t doing jack till you’ve healed off and I’ve got both willing customers and a supply line established.”

>>3009183
Yep, once Ophelia starts, it all just tumbles out without pause or consideration.
Then she revises.

>>3009537
Backing >>3009644

>>3009537
Also backing>>3009644

>>3010509
>>3010284
>>3009731
>>3009644
writing

>>3009537
“First off, stop being creepy, second off, we aren’t doing jack till you’ve gotten healed up and I’ve got both willing customers and a supply line established.” Henry said.

“What? slow down!?” Ophelia said. “But I want to start this now! Or at least as soon as humanly possible.”

“No, do not do anything beyond the blueprint stage Ophelia, and make sure I’m able to review it, because lord knows neither of us can afford a screw up. We’re in the same boat here. Look I’ll give you some time to think about it but you know I’m right.”

“I guess…” Ophelia muttered, grabbing some paper and writing on her poor excuse for a desk.

“Look, I had some other ideas I wanted to try out… well one in particular.” Ophelia said. “I want to make a flying machine. I’ve always had the idea for it but I’ve never been able to get the damned thing functional… lost a couple of assistants too… but that’s neither here nor there. I think with some necromancy it would work!”

“Where the hell is this coming from?”

“I thought it would be a good time to talk about it since we’re on the topic of inventions…”

“You don’t just use ‘some necromancy’ and if it’s just a bunch of spare parts it’s gonna be a hell of a lot more complex to get working. Why the hell are we even talking about this right now?”

“Pfft, we can work on that, but I want to be doing something damn it, not just sitting around and wasting time while you run off and do whatever the hell you do.”

“For the moment let’s not dwell on stupid ideas that will get me killed and try to track down Nessie’s cousin, alright?”

Decisions:
1. Head out to Nessie’s to ask about Paulie
2. Head to Paulie’s shack and set an ambush up
3. Head out to Larry, might be good to have his help though you’ll probably have to pay him.
4. (write in)

>>3011605
>1. Head out to Nessie’s to ask about Paulie
Grab some ropes or manacles to subdue him, as well as something to muffle his voice and a burlap sack small enough to cover his head.

>>3011639
Supportin

>>3011679
>>3011639
writing

>>3011605
Henry headed back into his home with Ophelia in tow, and proceeded into his storeroom. A few minutes later he emerged with some manacles. When he was much younger he’d worked some… ‘odd jobs’ for Vermillion. Needless to say that part of his life was behind him. He’d never really found anyone who’d even buy the stuff. He also had some cloth and a burlap sack for dragging the man away. Honestly he didn’t really relish the idea of having the carry the bastard somewhere secure, but work was work.


“Why do you have those?” Ophelia asked nervously.


“Keep asking and I’ll show you.” Henry replied.


The two shared an awkward moment before Ophelia broke the silence.


“I unbound Charles but he really is out like a light.” Ophelia said, trying to be helpful.


“I really doubt anyone’s gonna come across this place. Sophie knew about it and she isn’t one to leave a trail.” Henry said.


Henry headed over to his desk and wrote a note for Johnny. He then unceremoniously left it on top of Johnny’s bone heap.


The trip back to under town was one of uncomfortable silence. Every time Ophelia tried to speak up, Henry either grunted a response or gave her a look, after ten minutes of walking she finally got the idea.


The talk with Nessie was slightly less uncomfortable. Henry explaining what they’d learnt so far and Nessie’s expression turning more somber. Eventually she poured herself a drink and gulped it down in one go. They were free to do what they needed to, however the curse of Undertown was in effect, meaning they couldn’t harm Paulie while he was here, which included tying him up and dragging him out of the city. This would prove a problem if not for the fact that the man often left the town on supply runs. From what Nessie explained, he had gone out to do one and would be heading back into undertown in an hour, that would be the best time to intercept him. Ophelia kept saying they should act like normal people and just talk with the man. Henry hadn’t really thought about it, but maybe the poor fuck WAS somehow innocent. Probably not.


Decisions:
1. Ambush plan
2. Ophelia’s talking plan
3. (write in)

>>3011721
>2. Ophelia’s talking plan
But have a spell in reserve for when negotiations break down.

>>3011721
night

>>3011721
Backing >>3011727

>>3011727
Agreed.

>>3011770
actually going to bed now, but I should be on around 7:30-8:00 ish tomorrow, assuming I'm not a lazy shit.

>>3011778
>>3011775
>>3011727
writing, wasn't able to be as home as early as I'd have liked, but still better than 10 pm

>>3011721
After MUCH finagling, arguing, cursing and threatening, Henry decided to go with Ophelia’s ‘talking plan’ the issue was where they would do it. The best place would be anywhere that wasn’t Undertown, but Henry didn’t have a clue as to Paulie’s movements or where he even was, all he knew was that he lived in the shack they’d been to, and had a boat, meaning he might not even be in Celeste. He needed more info on the man, or perhaps he’d just wait it out. Decisions decisions decisions.

Ophelia tapped her foot impatiently. While sipping on her second glass of water, did that woman ever sit still, this wasn’t as simple as just casting a stun spell on the man. The curse of Undertown wasn’t too particular when it came to things that constituted ‘assault’ or ‘injury’. Though casting a paralyzing spell would probably count, if Ophelia even knew such a thing. The woman refused to tell him everything she knew, which was all well and good, everyone was entitled to their secrets, and he was fairly certain he could find out later on. From what Henry knew she only had a basic bolt spell for offensive purposes, but that woman probably had other things cooking under the surface.

Regardless, time was ticking, and a move needed to be made.

Decisions: (choose one)
1. Wait out near Paulie’s shack and remain hidden
2. Remain out in the open and wait for Paulie
3. Head to your infobroker Blackie in the Raven’s den, considering this info isn’t exactly rare it probably won’t cost too much.
4. Head down a drainage tunnel and hope you get lucky (REALLY HARD ROLL)
5. (write in)

>>3013368
>3. Head to your infobroker Blackie in the Raven’s den, considering this info isn’t exactly rare it probably won’t cost too much.
Also see if we can sell him the info on the primarch or the archangel dying, if we know this information.

>>3013368
Backing >>3013494

>>3013494
>>3013505
writing

>>3013368
The Raven’s Den was built into the side of a fairly inconsequential building off to the side of Undertown’s main thoroughfare. Not quite an alley but nowhere near big enough to be called a road. The door was unadorned with anything too fancy except a small symbol of a raven sitting on a branch with a dead rat in its mouth. Henry didn’t really understand the importance of the symbol, but from what Blackie had told him it actually meant a great deal, and had pissed quite a few different people off over the years. Maybe someone liked rats?

Henry rasped his knuckles against the door a couple times, and a small plate built into the door frame slid open to reveal a sharp pair of eyes.

“Henry?” The man behind the door asked. “What’s the password?”

“Fucks sake its crows’ nest, unless Blackie changed it up on me this week.” Henry said.

“Yer lucky day, he didn’t.”

The latch slid shut and the sound of a heavy series of bolts being slid sounded off. Ophelia looked a bit worried as the door slid open and revealed an impressive array of latches, locks, chains, and bars used for the express purpose of keeping trash outside.

“I’m not going to regret following you am I?” Ophelia asked, trying to remain calm.

“Come on you baby.” Henry replied, leading the almost terrified woman down into the building. The sound of the door being shut and relocked loudly announcing their arrival.

Inside was what could be described as a gambling den. Card tables and rolute wheels were neatly laid out in the space, and on one end was a small bar selling what was overpriced swill in Henry’s opinion. He never came here to drink, Nessie’ was far cheaper and much higher quality. He didn’t come here to gamble either, he viewed that as a pastime for the poor and stupid of society. He had never had enough money to comfortably lose and never understood the appeal. Yet the palce was always full all day long with people willing to throw their coin away. Henry understood the owner liked the location, anyone who was penniless couldn’t even get into Undertown, so it worked out fine for him.


Blackie was another odd ball in terms of undertown. He hid out in a small backroom of the Raven’s Den, and was considered by some to be its star attraction. That man had not a magical bone in his body, but was able to get information on just about anyone and anything, and from what Henry knew the man had a memory as good as a photograph.

Decisions:
1. Head in casually
2. Head in with a coin in your hand
3. (try to calm Ophelia’s Nerves)(roll 1d100)
4. (play the tables) (list coin amount, select number on roulette wheel)
5. (write in)

Rolled 4 (1d100)

>>3013743
2. Head in with a coin in your hand
3. (try to calm Ophelia’s Nerves)(roll 1d100)

>>3013806
>crit fail

oh boy

Rolled 10 (1d100)

>>3013806
Oh noes

>>3013898
>>3013806
having Ophelia be scared for life seems to be a running gag now

>>3013907
calling it a night, gonna say that the attempts to calm Ophelia's nerves have backfired hilariously, if anyone has suggestions on how that'll actually look feel free. See ya tomorrow!

Rolled 74 (1d100)

>>3013743
Well, I can't make it worse.

>>3013931
I suggest that she starts a small fire as a distraction to escape and case the place out, planning a larger fire.

Rolled 17 (1d100)

>>3013931
>>3013907
>>3013861

>>3013931
Henry tells her to get a drink and simmer down, she is served some truly awful shit and insults the barkeep. This is a bad thing to do.

>>3015323
>>3013961
going to combine these.

>>3013743
Ophelia began to nervously inch toward the exit when Henry calmly placed a hand on her shoulder.

“Relax and get a drink or something, I shouldn’t be longer than five minutes.”

“R-right… relax.”

“Don’t tick anyone off, or start fires, or anything.” Henry said. “Please? Or it’ll go real badly for you.”

“Like what I’ll get thrown out?” Ophelia asked.

“Well yeah at first, but you’ll probably get attacked when your outside the safety net and cut into pieces if your lucky.”

“eeep.”

“Right, look, just stay out of trouble god damn it.”

“I really don’t think god would help me down here.”

“Shut up.” Henry said, ending their abortion of a conversation.

He had a feeling she WAS going to do something incredibly stupid, hopefully she’d wait till he was finished.

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

Henry pulled out a piece of silver and walked into Blackie’s little corner of the den. The man true to his name had a messy swath of curly black hair. He also wore a jacket with a raven emblem on the back, and had a full pair of brass knuckles on his left hand. The room itself was fairly cozy, with a fireplace on one end, a worn couch which Blackie himself was sitting on. A few other plush chairs, and a cracked crystal ball sitting on a crooked table. Even when it was in one piece the thing had never been magical, Blackie just liked using it as a prop on the more gullible patrons. It added… mystique?”

“Oh Henry, what brings you to my little abode?” Blackie asked.

“Didn’t realized you lived here.” Henry said.

“Home’s where the heart is after all.”

“I guess my place is REALLY a home by that logic.”

“Still a joker, happy to see your in good spirits after that little trip you took, and happy you made it back in one piece.”

“Did Vermillion tell you?” Henry asked

“No, but I don’t really need his permission to keep tabs on people.”

Henry handed the piece of silver over to Blackie and began to formulate a good question to ask.

(-1 silver)

Decisions:
1. “I’d like it if you didn’t watch me.”
2. “I’m looking for a man named Paulie, owns a boat and has been bringing people into the capital illegally. Do you have any relevant information about him?”
3. “What information do you have on a paladin named Venser?” (will cost additional silver)
4. “What information do you have on an inquisitor named Cassius?” (will cost a gold piece)
5. (write in)

>>3015759
2. “I’m looking for a man named Paulie, owns a boat and has been bringing people into the capital illegally. Do you have any relevant information about him?”

>>3015759
2. “I’m looking for a man named Paulie, owns a boat and has been bringing people into the capital illegally. Do you have any relevant information about him?”

>>3016157
>>3016194
Supportin

>>3016235
>>3016194
>>3016157
will write in later tonight

>>3015759
> 5. (write in)

Who knows what about me, or is asking about me?

>>3016157
>>3016194
writing

>>3017321
I spent a good two minutes trying to figure out what you want to ask, I couldn't and I apologize.

>>3015759
“I’m looking for a man named Paulie, he owns a boat and has been bringing people into the capital illegally. Do you have any relevant info on him.”

“This about that brat?” Blackie asked.

“What?” Henry replied.

“Nessie’s cousin, Duchane I think her name was.” Blackie said, “I’m guessing you’re asking about her since Paulie is the last one who saw her alive from what I understand.”

“Is she dead?” Henry asked.

“Her body hasn’t washed up anywhere from what I understand, so hopefully not. But I do know Paulie was up to his neck in debt for weeks up till about a week ago and now he isn’t anymore. I also know that he makes runs through Shearpoint and several factories in that district got hit by a bunch of pagans. Apparently protesting the factories or some shit. I know a bunch of em are in lockup awaiting trial. Whole things screams to me of a power play, but I don’t have any info on who exactly owns the factories or who would benefit. But I don’t have a dog in the fight so I haven’t been paying too much attention.”

“Do you know where Paulie is?” Henry asked.

“That man is careful but not too careful, he’s not presently in Undertown, from what I understand he’s en route to a place called Willow’s Grove. Another ‘supply run’ probably. I suspect he’ll come back through Shearpoint and drop his cargo off. Beyond that I don’t know too much more about the man that’d be relevant. Anything else will cost more.”

“That should be plenty, thanks for your help.”

“Any time… do you smell smoke?” Blackie asked, standing up and suddenly alarmed.

Henry turned around to see Ophelia quietly heading up the stairs and a small fire raging behind the bar. He glanced at Blackie for a moment before the man ran off to help put it out.

“See you round mate.” Henry called over to the man.

“Right right.” Blackie said, waving as he grabbed a bucket from behind the counter and began pouring water on the burning areas.

It was a real testament to the bizarre nature of Undertown that this was nowhere near the weirdest thing anyone in the Raven’s den had seen.

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

>>3018346

Outside Ophelia was leaning against a wall a good distance from the exit. Henry was a tad annoyed at her antics, but honestly he was surprised that’d she’d managed to leave so easily.

“So what was that about.”

“I wanted to leave and I couldn’t figure out a way to do so, the bar man kept hitting on me.”

“So you lit him on fire?” Henry asked.

“N-no…. I lit the bar on fire to create a good distraction…I just… momentarily… forgot alcohol ignites and causes a big mess…”

“You… you what?” Henry asked in sheer disbelief. “Aw fuck you know they ain’t gonna let you back in now and I might catch some flak for this shit.”

“No need to worry, I memory scattered everyone who saw me!” Ophelia said, grinning awkwardly. “Quiet and sneaky right?”

First Decision:
1. “I need to get you a leash.”
2. “Can I leave you alone for TWO MINUTES without you breaking something.”
3. “You know, maybe the whole pyromanic thing suits you now, you have the look going.”
4. “I’ll just pretend we didn’t have this conversation, and god help you if you try to make it so we didn’t.”
5. (write in)
Second Decision: (pick one)
1. Head back to the sheer point lockup
2. Head to the Sheer point docks and keep an eye out for paulie’s boat, Henry has seen the man before and recognizes his face.
3. Head back home and get some work done, you can afford to kill some time
4. Head down to a rune mason and grab some rune bases for Ophelia.
5. (Write in)

>>3018350
>First Decision:
"..."
>Second Decision
>5. (Write in)
Lets go home and drop Ophelia off.

>>3018373
writing

>>3018451
>3018451
Have Johnny and Charles show her the general way to do things at our workshop and home.

>>3018350
Henry said nothing, turning away and beginning to head out. It took a good minute for Ophelia to realize that he’d intended for her to follow him, and another five for them to find each other in the streets of Undertown. Overall it was a massive pain in the ass for both parties involved.

Still, the woman had proved useful in some rather limited circumstances. Henry believed the proper term was idiot savant, although a kinder person would find that description a tad too harsh. The trip home was uneventful, although Ophelia refused to go near any of the rats they encountered. It seemed she’d taken to Henry’s stories about ravenous rat swarms a bit too well. Henry did’nt get angry at her behavior. He’d rather her be cautious then care free when it came to her personal safety, she was much too important to lose.

Upon arriving at the home Charles ran up to him tearfully.

“I-I… I tried to stop her and I w-wasn’t able to but I got m-my knife out and…”

“Its fine kid, I knew her” Henry said, not missing a beat “I didn’t expect her to do all this shit but I’m sorry I left you unsupervised like that. She was an old… friend of mine, and well, she’s changed a good deal since I’ve last seen her. I asked her to meet with me but I expected her to contact me back with a time and place, I didn’t expect her to just show up. You thought she was an intruder and well, yeah.”

“The faults all mine sir, I apologize.” Johnny said, moving away from the wall he was resting on. “If I was in control of my faculties I wouldn’t have allowed her to lay a hand on him.”

The chamber, lacking any corners to stand in, had always made Johnny rather subdued. His dry wit subsumed by a general sense of uncomfortableness.

“Its fine Johnny, we can talk about it later, and as for you Ophelia, you’re staying here, no if ands or buts.”

“Oh… but I was beginning to enjoy things…” Ophelia said.

Henry seized up before Ophelia playfully poked him in the side.

“Of course not, that’d be stupid, I hated every moment of that little adventure. Let’s never do it again.”

“I won’t even deign to ask.” Johnny replied.

“Johnny, teach her to not be stupid, and maybe teach her how to talk to people better. Worked with me after all.”

“I’m… sorry sir? You want me to do what?”

“Teach her how to speak to people better better.”

“I… I suppose I can try.”

“We can teach her how to use the stove!” Charles said.

“Great idea, maybe she can cook.” Henry said.

“Excuse me?” Ophelia said. “I’m not some maid to be ordered around.”

“You’d probably do a far poorer job than myself so its no great concern.” Johnny replied. “I have more experience after all.”

>>3018493

“WHAT?!” Ophelia said, becoming angered. “Oh there is no way a skeleton is more skilled than me at ANYTHING outside of being dead!”

Johnny was almost as good at reading people as Henry was, and without the tendency to needlessly mess with them. Perhaps Johnny would be able to shape Ophelia up, given enough time of course.

Decisions:
1. Head to shear point’s guard station
2. Head out to wait for Paulie and ambush him
3. Head back to the factory that was damaged and try to speak with the owner or some staff, maybe they have more info.
4. (write in)

>>3018498
>2. Head out to wait for Paulie and ambush him

>>3018498
>2. Head out to wait for Paulie and ambush him
Screw the rest we're impatient now

>>3018498
>2. Head out to wait for Paulie and ambush him

>>3018726
>>3019065
>>3018503
writing

>>3018498
After grabbing a few things, a couple of bomb runes, another few pairs of shackles, some rope, his short sword, a good supply of cateye crystals, and a few other things, Henry headed out. The trip went fairly quickly, not having Ophelia acting as dead weight really sped things up. Emerging out of a sewer utility entrance, Henry quickly made his way down towards the dockland region of the district. The docks were full of workers and boats coming and going. Finding Paulie’s would be a bit of a challenge if he came during peak hours.

Henry had seen Paulie’s boat in the past, although only briefly. Still he knew it would be small enough to slip in or out and that he would in all likelihood be coming this way. He had some time to kill before then. The main issue would be subduing the man, while Ophelia would have probably been able to cast a stun or sleep spell, she’d probably would have found some way to botch things up. Regardless, Henry vs a middle aged man who wasn’t known for getting into fights would probably be tipped in his favor.

>Roll 1d100, and 1d6

Rolled 59 (1d100)

>>3020232

Rolled 4 (1d6)

>>3020232

Rolled 74 (1d100)

>>3020232
K

Rolled 3 (1d6)

>>3020232
Could have gone worse.

>>3020241
>>3020405
thats a pass

>>3020488
>>3020242
and that means it takes about 3-4 hours for paulie to show up meaning we might him around... 4-5ish in the evening

>>3020599
>it takes about 3-4 hours for paulie to show up meaning we might him around... 4-5ish in the evening
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Lkd3jZ5cXYM

>>3020672
speaking of which, I'll continue this fucker tomorrow

>>3020703
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KTpd-CEJahw

>>3020232
Time passed agonizingly slowly for Henry. He was never the most impatient man but sitting dockside for four hours scanning the horizon with a pair of binoculars wasn’t his idea of time well spent. Regardless he was doing this for Nessie, he hoped the woman would give him something on the house after he brought her niece back.

Lunch was his one reprieve. He had brought a good chunk of the preserved fish, some bread, and some dried fruit. He’d also managed to brew up some cold coffee, he didn’t like it nearly as much as warm coffee, but it got the job done, keeping him awake.

When he was beginning to lose hope he saw a small ship sail into a small canal and slowly make its way further into the city. A quick glance through his binoculars showed the boat was piloted by Paulie and someone else that Henry didn’t recognize. He figured it was a pagan of some sort, or someone else lured into the capital for some reason or another. Fame or wealth or something horrible, plenty of people came seeking their fortunes and few if any ever found it.

Regardless, he had to make his move or he’d risk losing Paulie and having to wait an unbearable amount of time. Also Duchane would probably be far worse off after it was all over. Still, from what Blackie had told him this all stunk to high heaven, something big was going on, and Paulie would be the man to shake down.

Decisions:
1. Follow the boat and wait till Paulie drops his ‘cargo’ off, then strike.
2. Attack now before they have a chance to notice you.
3. Follow Paulie until he goes underground, then strike.
4. Get cold feet, you didn’t expect this to be two on one.
5. (Write in)

>>3023229
>1. Follow the boat and wait till Paulie drops his ‘cargo’ off, then strike.
If we incapacitate them, we can later play one off of the other.

>>3023229
Backing >>3023238

>>3023238
>>3023255
writing

>>3023229
Henry kept a good distance from the craft as it slowly meandered its way through the canal networks. A few times he almost lost the thing as he had to quickly find a bridge to continue his pursuit. The canals were not built with sneakily following boats in mind. Henry checked with his binoculars a couple of times while in shadows, both to get a good view and to avoid the sun reflecting off the lens. A trick of Sophie’s that served him well. He could see Paulie talking to the man, and Henry could also see something interesting, there where wisps of green mana coming off the man’s hands.

Eventually the two came to a stop and the man departed, unleashing a spell that spawned the spectral form of a bird, although completely made out of green mana. The bird took flight and a green glow settled in one of the man’s eyes. Henry didn’t know exactly what the spell was but he figured it was a scout of some sort. He held his distance until the man was out of view and continued his pursuit. Eventually he found a good spot and decided to jump down and say hello to Paulie.

>Roll 1d100

Rolled 89 (1d100)

>>3023290

Rolled 14 (1d100)

>>3023290

>>3023295
>>3023299
well that's a pass, writing

>>3023290
Throwing care to the wind, Henry leapt off the quay that he was standing on and landed perfectly in the boat. Paulie was knocked over and dropped the oar he was using for locomotion. The boat rocked and swayed as the momentum from Henry’s jump was carried over to it. Wasting no time, Henry unsheathed his short sword and held it to Paulie’s throat.

“Say a word and you’re dead Paulie.” Henry said.

“W-what… w-who… don’t kill me!” Paulie said, the middle aged man was utterly terrified. “I didn’t say a damned thing alright, it wasn’t me! I-it was probably one of the people who got captured by the t-town guard!”

Henry paused for a moment before sitting down in the boat. He held out his sword and motioned for Paulie to get up and keep paddling, he would rather them get to a spot that was less noticeable, rather than right out in the open like this.

Decisions:
1. “Keep talking Paulie and I might just let you live.”
2. “I’m here for a completely different reason… well maybe somewhat related.”
3. “Nessie says hello you old fuck.”
4. “I want you to tell me everything you know right now.”
5. “Seems you’re employed by someone scary, I want to know who that is.”
6. (write in)

>>3023330
>1. “Keep talking Paulie and I might just let you live.”

>>3023334
Also htry and have a bolt spell on hand in case the other tries something.

>>3023330
Backing >>3023334
>>3023339

>>3023341
>>3023334
roll for intimidation

Rolled 29 (1d100)

>>3023360

Rolled 34 (1d100)

>>3023360
rollan

>>3023364
>>3023382
well that's not great but it barely scrapes by

>>3023330
“Keep talking Paulie and I might just let you live.” Henry said.

The man was fearful for a few more minutes before a look of clarity crossed his face.

“Red cloak.. I know you… Henry the necromancer correct? Y-you… you don’t know who you’re messing with here boy.”

“Ha, if its someone who can scare you then that’s half the damned city ain’t it.”

“I’m serious Henry, stay outta this, I don’t know what you’re trying to get here.”

“I’m trying to find someone, a girl, Nessie’s nephew.”

“The barkeep?” Paulie asked nervously. “The hell she have to do with any of this?”

“Her niece got caught up in whatever idiotic scheme you cooked up, or I suppose whoever paid your debt off cooked up.”

“How do you know about-“

“I’m the one talking here, I also know about the sabotage going on around here, and I can probably keep digging and figure it out but you’d save me a hell of a lot of time.”

“Stay out of this one Henry.” Paulie said. “Look, you don’t want no part of this, hell I’m too deep as is, I don’t got a say in shit, and god just keeps hammered down on poor old Paulie.”

“Leave god out of this, you have some questions I want answered.”

Decisions:
1. “What happened to Duchane? Tell me nice and slow, I don’t want to hurt you.”
2. “Why are you bringing Pagan’s into the city Paulie, the hell are you working for?”
3. “What good does bringing down a bunch of factories do? Did one of the steam barons hire you?”
4. “is this sabotage or something else?”
5. “If you don’t speak you’ll have to deal with me, and ending up a dead body in the canal would be the best thing that’d happen if you don’t start talkin.”
6. (write in)

>>3023453
>6. (write in)
Where is her niece, that's all I want to know.
Tell me, and I'll let you alone to do what ever you were doing.
If we can hold the lightning spell in our off hand to make it look menacing, then we also do that.

Rolled 62 (1d100)

1. “Keep talking Paulie and I might just let you live.”

>>3023488
bit late to the party

>>3023453
Backing >>3023480

will continue tomorrow

>>3023480
>>3023453
Yeah this.