>>3132000

"The Wyvern had been tailing us for a good two weeks at that point, slowly whittling us down. We had lost any chance of fighting the thing during the first couple attacks, and were desperately trying to reach Roule. Then, on our fifteenth day of travel, as we used a treacherous canyon as cover, it attacked us during broad daylight. It probably thought we were so weakened we wouldn't be able to put up a fight, and it was right."

~ Rinko, owner of the Malter Trading Company.


================================(CHAPTER START)=================================

Henry woke up breathing heavily, he couldn’t exactly remember what he’d dreamt about, but that was always for the best. Johnny was in his usual corner. Henry got to work on breakfast while Johnny went to grab Ophelia, soon enough the three of them were at the table, discussing things. Henry explaining that they would be seeing a certain vampire, Vermilion trusted him enough that he wouldn’t have to explain Ophelia’s presence. Everything was ready, but there was one little detail left.

Removing Ophelia’s bandages.

Ophelia sat stock still and straight as a board while she waited for Henry to remove the bandages from her face. She hadn’t suffered any permanent on the parts Henry had uncovered, at least the parts he’d been allowed to see. For everything odd about the woman, she had the normal degree of modesty one would expect.

Henry wordlessly handed the woman a mirror, and waited for Ophelia’s response. The woman was silent as she poked and prodded different parts of her face. She wasn’t entirely pleased, but they all knew it could have been far worse. The woman’s skin was slightly discolored, the burnt portion being a slightly different shade then the rest of her body. But overall, she’d gotten off really lucky. It was something of a miracle she hadn’t died from the attacks, to be honest.

Decisions:
1. Say something to someone (write in AND choose target)
2. Head over to Vermilion, can’t keep the man waiting
3. (write in)

>>3132025
Gonna check back infrequently then go to bed around midnight eastern

>>3132025
>3. (write in)
Get our outfits first.
Cause we're sure vermillion would be thrilled to see us dressed up.

>>3132166
+1

>>3132166
+1

+1

>>3132166
>>3132572
>>3132610
>>3132719
writing
>I have a working draft of the chateau now, hopefully it'll flow well during the actual case. I've done a bit of testing on it but its gonna be a trial by fire.

>>3132025
While Ophelia went to her chambers to don her costume, Henry looked over his. The thing was quite elegant and would lend a fine air of mystery to his act. He wished that for once Vermillion wouldn’t be a total piece of shit and would give him more information on both the layout of the mansion and the guest list, but that was supposed to be a surprise.

Vermilion and his fucking surprises.

By the time Henry got his outfit on Ophelia was pacing impatiently outside. Johnny was wearing his normal rags and overall the three made for an odd trio.

“So who is this lady we’re going to be escorting?” Ophelia asked.

“We’re heading to Vermilion for further instructions.” Henry replied. “Hopefully the bastard doesn’t make us walk all the way to the chateau.”

“So where is it?” Ophelia asked.

“I don’t know the exact location, to keep it a surprise. Its fairly ordinary for Vermilion to keep secrets like this.”

“I suppose every vampire is insufferable.” Ophelia mused.

“For once something we all agree on.” Johnny remarked.

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

After a twenty minute walk, they arrived without incident. The exterior of Vermilion’s little club was lit with a variety of different color light runes. Added a bit of pizazz and functioned as lighting. The guard didn’t give him any lip and he was quickly led to Vermilion. The vampire was sitting on his usual impromptu throne. He didn’t say anything, forcing Henry to make the first move. God he fucking hated Vermilion.

Decisions:
1. “So I’m all ready to go.”
2. “Hope you don’t mind me bringing an assistant.”
3. “So where do I go to meet up with this lady.”
4. “So what’s the plan?”

>>3133073
>4. “So what’s the plan?”
"Other than throw a necromancer at the problem and hoping for a good outcome."

>>3133073
>2. “Hope you don’t mind me bringing an assistant.”
I think mentioning this is quite important
4. “So what’s the plan?”

>>3133077
>>3133076
writing

>>3133073
"So whats the plan?" Henry said, resigning himself to playing along."

"I thought you'd never ask!" Someone other than Vermilion said.

"Wait, shit." Henry said.

Vermilion had left a few days prior. Who the fuck was this?

"Oh fuck me." Henry said, backing up a few steps.

Vermilion became real fuzzy for a moment, before a flash of light envolped the room. Sitting where Vermilion had been was FUCKING LISA ARTOAH. FUCKING BITCH.

"Alright, well, in about two hours you need to be at Lady Marlene's Estate in the second ring, at 535 Ringworm Street. The woman has no personal security oddly enough, it was one of the things that tipped me off about her actually. Anywho, nice to see you around Henry, and Johnny of course, although I cannot for the life of me tell who that mystery woman you have tagging along with you is.

"My assistant, I'm going to be bringing her along."

"Oh, I thought the kid was, aren't you attracting all the love these days..." Lisa said, giggling to herself.

Henry would have bolted her if he wouldn't die violently after. Well, he considered taking the chance regardless. Vermilion was tolerable, and more importantly SANE. But Lisa?

"Don't worry I won't be altering Mr. Vermilion's little shindig. He's been oh so excited about this. Baron Orion and his attendents will be greating you at the front gate, and then you'll talk with the party's wonderful sponser... and you'll be putting on one of those shows I love watching so much... its a true shame I won't be able to be there though, I've heard the party is going to have a WONDERFUL surprise."

"Do I need to say anything specifically when I meet with the nice Lady?" Henry asked.

"Ah, yes, Vermilion said SOMETHING about that... oh what was it was it was it? OH right, it was the marble horse moves into pasture. Thats our little code so the nice Lady knows you're the real deal. I don't even want to know how many strings Vermilion pulled for this little game... but a word of caution to you dear Henry, The little lady has a dangerous little thing about her... how do I put this... oh this is anguish incarnate to admit... but she's escaped me once... in fact she'd been the only one who'd managed to give me the slip until you're good friend... germie? The Seer.

Henry didn't dignify that with a response. Instead he turned around and left. Ignoring Lisa's pleas that he stop and let her give him the right to leave. He thought about flipping her off but decided this was bad enough. He wouldn't have done this sort of thing to Sir Marcel. Fucking with Vermilion's right hand man was bad... but well, Lisa had lost a lot of face around these parts with her utter failure to kill Gerald. Sides Henry knew she wouldn't mess with him due to her particular employers.

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

>>3133620
"So whats the plan sir?" Johnny asked.

"I want you to get into this rucksack I'm bringing along." Henry said to the skeleton. "They'd search it if I brought it inside so I'll leave you on the side of the road when we get close... I'll say I'm taking a piss or something.

"Isn't this grand host of ours a vampire, why would HE care if we brought in a skeleton?" Ophelia asked.

"Because his guards AREN'T, and there is such a thing as a COVER IDENTITY." Henry yelled, scaring Ophelia and making her shy away.

"Jerk." Ophelia muttered.

"You're the one who wanted to go so fucking badly." Henry said.

The woman simply played with her cape and after a couple minutes began to make wooshing noises.

Decisions:
1. "So can we kill Lisa when this is all done with? I'm sick of the bitch."
2. (Grab additional supplies)(you need to write in specifically here)
3. (Talk to someone while you make your way to the Marlene Estate)
4. (write in)

>>3133625
>2. (Grab additional supplies)(you need to write in specifically here)
Wires, thin metal ones.
Explosive runes, some with the magical linking cord linking them.
And
a grappling hook and rope so johnny can use it to get over the wall or fence around the estate.
Also have him carry these obvious weapons in.

>>3133633
will begin writing in 5 minutes

>>3133625
Henry and co headed back to their home, and Henry busied himself and grabbed several items. He moved one of the bookshelves out of the way with Johnny’s help, and grabbed the five bomb runes he’d been keeping. He considered divvying them out to Ophelia but decided that giving that woman something explosive was a terrible fucking idea. He grabbed some metal wires and a grappling hook he’d had lying around. Sure it was still technically Sophie’s but she’d never come back for the damned thing and it would finally be getting some use. So she’d obviously be alright with it. Henry didn’t have any conducting fiber on hand, in fact he’d used the last of it up during his time making the undead order, he wished he’d had time to swing by Black Alley, but hopefully he wouldn’t need to use these things. Henry handed Johnny the rope and hook. Lastly he grabbed some metal wires. He still had some left over from his prior project. Stuff could come in handy.

“I think I understand sir.” Johnny said. “Hopefully the commotion will mean the towers aren’t guarded.”

“If the place even has towers.” Henry said.

“Of course it’ll have towers, it’s a defensive structure.” Johnny remarked. “Every castle or Chateau worth its salt will have them.”

“Whatever.” Henry replied.

“I’ve got something!” Ophelia said, smiling at a cobbled together mess of metal and wood.

“The fuck?” Henry asked.

“By god, is that a wand?” Johnny remarked.

“Yep, untested!” Ophelia said. “I also have that owl too, goes nice with the costume don’t it.”

(+5 bomb runes, grappling hook w/ rope, and metal wires.)
Decisions:
1. “You aren’t bringing that… thing along.”
2. “Fuck it, sure, why not, bring it along.”
3. “Bring it along and tell me how it works on the way.”
4. (Write in)

>>3133674
>2. “Fuck it, sure, why not, bring it along.”

>>3133674
>2. “Fuck it, sure, why not, bring it along.”

>>3133677
>>3133679
writing

File: the-noblemans-house-at-ku(...).jpg (258 KB, 1300x959)

258 KB JPG

>>3133674
“Fuck it, sure, why not, bring it along. Let’s add to this massive fucking clusterfuck.” Henry said whimsically.

“Yay?” Ophelia asked.

“Oh bother.” Johnny muttered. “Try not to get killed by that abomination of a wand sir.”

“Alright Johnny, let’s get you and the equipment in the bag.”

Johnny collapsed into a pile of bones, and Henry dutifully placed him into his rucksack. The thing had a false bottom of course, but it didn’t have nearly enough space to hide Johnny. So he left it empty for the time being and made everything tidy, then strapped it to his back. Johnny voice was muffled but Henry knew he’d be fine, the man had ways of killing time. Now he only had Ophelia to keep him company, and well, the walk was a lesson in annoyance and distraction. Ophelia kept going off on tangents and saying how this wand had come to her when she was working on the transfer rune. It all took on the qualities of a herd of animals bleating at nothing, and Henry had to do his best to not fall asleep and tumble into a gutter.

They went topside fairly quickly, Henry didn’t want to get the stink of the sewer on their new costumes, but this merely prolonged their little walk. They wound their way through the various city streets, alleys, and thoroughfares and made their way, at last, to the estate of Lady Marlene Estavon.

The estate was fairly plain, a two story building made out of cut stone blocks, and adorned with fairly modest decorations and flourishes. There was a heavy lock on the front door and a few potted plants and other greenery all over the rest of the house. Henry took note of ivy crawling up the side of the house and a couple of cracks in the base of the chimney. The stone slabs on the base had moss growing in parts, but the front door itself was immaculate. On the windows the curtains were drawn, affording no sight inside.

The carriage hadn’t arrived quite yet, they were a bit early

Henry knocked on the door without hesitating. If one was nervous like this, it was sometimes better to just dive in without thinking.

The sound of footsteps came from the upper floor, then slowly worked their way towards the first floor, then the sound of a couple of latches being undone sounded from the interior. There was a clicking noise then the sound of grinding gears, then finally a pop. The door opened a tiny bit an a fairly frail looking blonde woman poked half her head around the corner.

“H-hello?” She asked, her voice faint and unimpressive compared to the size of her manor.

Decisions:
1. “Lady Marlene Estavon?”
2. “We’re here to escort you to the party ma’am.”
3. “We’re your personal escorts, m’lady.”
4. “Quite a bit of security you have here.”
5. (write in)

>>3133796
>1. “Lady Marlene Estavon?”
>2. “We’re here to escort you to the party ma’am.”
Only say our code whwen she says the countercode

>>3133796
This >>3133797

>>3133799
>>3133797
writing

>>3133620
"Lady Marlene Estavon?" Henry said, "We're here to escort you."

"Oh... um." Marlene said, trying to shy away from the doorway.

Henry noticed that there was a thin deadbolt with a chain running too the door itself. The woman sure had a lot of feckin security.

"T-there is a code..." Marlene said nervously.

"Oh, right, the marble horse moves into pasture."

At that, Marlene relaxed considerably, then shut the door suddednly. Henry was left looking silly for a moment before the door swung back open wide. The deadbolt had been undone and entranceinto the house was permitted. Henry took that as a message to enter and walked inside. Marlene kept an eye on Ophelia for a moment, nervous for some reason.

"Do you intend to wait outside?" Henry asked Ophelia.

"No of course not!" Ophelia said, rushing inside as if to prove a point.

The woman was making sure they weren't vampiric, the fact they could enter without her actual permission proved they weren't. Although the sunshine outside should have removed all doubt of that. Didn't matter what tricks a vampire tried, sunlight was sunlight.

Decisions:
1. *say nothing and follow her lead*
2. "Bit jumpy aren't you ma'am, well no worry we'll make sure you have a safe journey and a good time at the party."
3. "Bit odd you don't have any guards to your person, I'm not complaining of course, since we'd not have the job otherwise."
4. "Excited for the party ma'am?"
5. (write in)

>>3133830
>3. "Bit odd you don't have any guards to your person, I'm not complaining of course, since we'd not have the job otherwise."

>>3133830
>1. *say nothing and follow her lead*

>>3133854
>>3133834
going to bed and will write tomorrow.

>>3133830
>1. *say nothing and follow her lead*

>>3134170
>>3133854
writing the winning vote

>>3133830
Henry said nothing mainly out of habit, he knew better than to speak up when he didn’t need to. Ophelia didn’t say anything because she didn’t really want to speak to yet another person. All of these people she’d been meeting lately were exhausting. It hadn’t dawned on her yet that a party was mostly about meeting people.

“Well then, you’re welcome to sit and relax a bit, I think we still have an hour or so until the carriage arrives. Quite the treat all of this I must say. A free ride AND security!” Marlene said, nervously chuckling at the end of it.

The woman was skittish, that much was obvious, although her mannerisms were also a bit odd. Strained, a bit wonky. Like she didn’t know how to act in front of guests, Henry already had one person like that. He looked towards Ophelia and saw that she was dutifully picking specs of dirt out of her cloak. In full view of their charge. At the very least she was depositing them into a nearby trash bin.

Henry gentle grabbed Ophelia by the wrist and walked her over to a nearby couch, then sat her down. He saw Marlene had entered the kitchen and was boiling up some tea. Interestingly the kettle she was using was made out of what appeared to be brass. In fact most of her utensils were brass, from the cookware hanging from wooden pegs on the wall, to a set of forks and knives organized into different pots. Bit of an odd way to show ones wealth, but Henry had met far weirder people in his time. A fondness for a type of metal wasn’t all that odd. The handles of her cabinets appeared to be bronze, and the woodwork was fairly nice, far better than anything Henry would purchase for himself.

“Do you want any tea?” Marlene asked. “I can spare a couple cups for my brave protectors.”

“Yes please!” Ophelia said.

Decisions:
1. “I apologize for my associates actions, she’s fairly new you see.”
2. “Certainty ma’am.”
3. “Lovely home you have here.”
4. “Odd choice of cookware.”
5. (write in)
6. (inspect something in the house)(Write in)

>>3135200
>4. “Odd choice of cookware.”
We must find out the reasonings, so it would be easier to keep her safe.
...
She's a werewolf isn't she.

>>3135200
This >>3135218

Rolled 3 (1d3)

>>3135234
>>3135218
writing

>>3135200
“Odd choice of cookware you have.” Henry said.

“Whatever do you mean?” Marlene responded.

“I mean the brass, most people use iron.”

“I hate the taste it gives my food, and I don’t really like the taste of copper either.” Marlene responded. “I find that brass doesn’t give the food much of a taste, and it doesn’t ruin my tea either.”

“Then why don’t you use steel cookware?” Henry asked.

“Well… my father used to use brass as well, never really thought of using steel before. Isn’t that only used for weapons and armor?”

“It’s a lot cheaper than it used to be.” Ophelia said from the other room. “It’s like iron but better, the only reason it wasn’t used in everything was cost. But now? You can even use it in cookware!”

“Is she supposed to sound like a saleswoman?” Marlene asked.

“She’s just excited she gets to go to a party.” Henry replied. “Don’t pay her much mind, I rarely do.”

Henry took another look around the room. There were ceiling lights utilizing light runes behind pieces of opaque glass that created a warm effect for the entire room, and there was a small lever embedded into the wall that seemingly controlled them. There were a few plants scattered throughout the kitchen, as well as a stove with piping going up into the ceiling, and probably connecting with the chimney at some point. Around her neck was a small silver and gold locket with a couple emeralds set into it.

Overall she was a fairly frail looking woman. Wispy like a strong wind would knock her over. She didn’t seem the type to even think about messing with Vermilion, so either she’d done it by accident, or she was putting on a façade. The wallflower routine suited her well, and the fairly down to earth clothing she had on seemed to enhance the part. She wasn’t wearing anything extravagant, although what she did have was expertly made, at least as far as Henry could tell.

Decision:
1. *ask further questions* (write in)
2. *have a look around* (write in)
3. *say something* (Write in)
4. *wait until the carriage arrives*
5. (write in)

>>3135267
>5. (write in)
Is there anything I should know to help you keep a low profile at the party tonight?
Anything that might cause you distress or pain?
And quirks that can draw attention?

>>3135267
see >>3135274

>>3135291
>>3135274
writing

>>3135267
“Is there anything I should know to help you keep a low profile at the party tonight? Any quriks or anything that might cause stress or pain?” Henry asked.

“What?” Marlene asked, taken aback.

“Any quirks that might draw attention.”

“What the devil are you talking about? I realize you’re here for my personal safety, and that there are those who might wish me harm, but once I’ve arrived at the party, surely I’ll be in capable hands?!”

“I’m just doing my job Ma’am.” Henry replied, unwavering.

“Well um… I suppose… if it’ll help. I uh, I have a small heart condition, the healers say it won’t normally be an issue but if I have too nasty of a shock it might cause my heart to act up, I have some pills I take for it though. It won’t be an issue I can assure you. I don’t really have anything else that would be a problem. I don’t really see why this is your focus. If you don’t mind me saying so sir, could you just focus on getting me safely to Baron Orion’s manor?”

“Of course.” Henry responded, nodding respectfully then joining Ophelia in the living room. He hadn’t gotten any real information out of the woman but he didn’t know what to ask exactly. He knew little about her.

“Actually there is something I could you your help with… I had this new urn I purchased recently, and after I had it delivered I found I wasn’t exactly strong enough to get it up the steps into my bedroom. If it isn’t too much trouble could one of you help me get it upstairs?”

Decisions:
1. “I’m afraid that’s not a part of our jobs ma’am.”
2. “Certainly, Ophelia, go be a dear and help her.”
3. “Certainty, allow me.”
4. (write in)

>>3135317
>4. (write in)
"Sarah, lets get that urn moved,"
We all go to move the urn.
as we move the urn
"We are to also ensure your safety at the party too, so it would be beneficial to know anything that may be a liability later. Like the sudden burning when in contact with silver."
>urn
>>>urn
She isn't a lich is she?

>>3135267
>There were ceiling lights utilizing light runes behind pieces of opaque glass that created a warm effect for the entire room, and there was a small lever embedded into the wall that seemingly controlled them
Not quite electricity, but it's getting there

>>3135324
READ NIGGA
>Around her neck was a small silver and gold locket with a couple emeralds set into it.
>SILVER
I am backing the "move urn together" part because it's innocuous enough, but not the line about silver

>>3135326
That was only an example, not that we actually thought she was a werewolf.

>>3135324
>>3135326
>>3135332
writing

>>3135317
“Come on Sarah, let’s get that urn moved.” Henry said, standing back up.

Ophelia stood silently for a moment, before it dawned on her that Henry meant her, then muttered something about how it was far beneath her but complied regardless.

“Oh no I can help, I only need one of you to do that.” Marlene said.

“Don’t worry ma’am, least we can do.” Henry said.

The two of them followed Marlene to the stairwell, where a large polished ceramic urn was laid out before them. Inside was an impressive tree which was far smaller than it should have been. The thing looked to be fully grown, but was shrunken down.

“You have an interest in miniature horticulture?!” Ophelia asked, suddenly excited.

“Well… yes. I don’t like plants that you can just leave sitting around. I find those that give me some trouble to be the best kind. I don’t like just being handed things you see.” Marlene said. “They’re still easier for me to care for than a fully sized tree, although I suppose that defeats my point doesn’t it.”

Ophelia and Henry steadily moved the urn up the steps, the thing was deceptively heavy. The soil inside was packed thoroughly and if there weren’t brass handles on the urn then it would have been an utter bitch to lift. Ophelia seemed to be straining herself although it wasn’t giving Henry too much trouble. All of that physical training Johnny had made him do had paid off many times over the years. Although usually not in this sort of circumstance.

“Just be careful to not bang up the walls, I just had the wallpaper put up!” Marlene said, as the trio made the slow climb to the second floor.

Upstairs the hallways were well lit with a bunch of large windows letting in a good deal of light. There were a few more plants and a couple of different flowerpots with bright flowers scattered around. Marlene led them to her bedroom and they plopped the urn down in the corner. Marlene looked pleased as she took a few steps back and looked at the urn from a variety of angles. A whistling noise came from below and Marlene wordlessly rushed back downstairs, nearly tumbling down the step in her haste.

“I guess the tea’s ready.” Ophelia said, moving to make her way back downstairs. “You coming Henry?”

Decisions:
1. “Yeah give me a minute, I want to have a look around while I have a moment.”
2. “Yeah sure.”
3. (write in)

>>3135365
>2. “Yeah sure.”
So she's just a very powerful green mage.
Gotcha op.

>>3135365
WAIT A SECOND
>she's just a very powerful green mage.
>green mana users were involved in the factory raids and vandalism earlier
oh fuck is she involved in that? Vermillion must have arranged this murder party beforehand, so it might be me just grasping at straws, but is there a chance?

either way, my vote is backing >>3135378

>>3135388
Not to mention her dislike of iron and iron products, she may even be a fae being with the tree being her true home.

>>3135388
>>3135378
Writing

>>3135395
>iron and steel
Good thing we have a grappling hook and metal wires. We could attempt to garrote the fuck out of her straight out of Hitman, but where's the fun in that?

>>3135402
But aren't we supposed to keep her ass safe?

>>3135404
We're supposed to keep her ass safe until the time is right, then kill her and frame someone else

>>3135407
Fuck
Forgot that

>>3135365
“Yeah sure.” Henry said.

While part of him wanted to nose around to see if he could learn anything further, pissing off his charge would be the worst way to go about the evening. If the woman was hostile to him, then after her murder then he might have intent established on him, that’d be the worst case scenario. As he left the room, he couldn’t help notice that there was a large corkboard inside a glass case on top of the woman’s dresser. Pinned to the corkboard was a whole series of insects, each with a single pin sticking through them. Henry chuckled to himself, it reminded him a bit of work.

Downstairs Ophelia and Marlene were enjoying tea and a finely carved oak table in the kitchen. Henry politely declined the offer of tea. He knew better than to accept food or drink from someone he wasn’t sure about. Ophelia had just volunteered to be a guinea pig. Maybe he’d tell her about this useful habit after their case. Even after all the woman had been through, Ophelia was far too trusting of people. At least it was just due to crippling naiveté rather than a faith in humanity.

Decision:
1. *say something further* (write in)
2. *preform an action* (write in)
3. *Wait for the carriage*
4. (write in)

>>3135407
might as well mention that Henry isn't the one killing her, he's just just 'solving' her murder.

>>3135412
Oh good

>>3135411
>4. (write in)
You wouldn't happen to be a fae would you?

>>3135420
I mean, I'll let you ask this if you really want to.

>>3135447
This seems like a hint that this would be a bad decision.
Lets NOT ask her if she's a fae being.

>>3135411
>3. *Wait for the carriage*
Get on with it!

>>3135447
Is there something we could do to trip her up? Like, we got any cold iron lying around?

>>3135411
>3. *Wait for the carriage*

>>3135905
>>3135693
writing the winning vote.

>>3135411
The group waited for a little while longer. Henry checked in on Johnny inside his little rucksack a couple of times. Honestly carrying human remains around was surprisingly boring all things considered. Although Johnny wasn’t really remains since he was still sort of among the living. Ophelia made a nuisance of herself, mainly enjoying her tea and utterly failing to reciprocate Lady Marlene’s futile attempts at small talk. Henry himself considered stepping in a couple of times, mainly due to how embarrassing it all was.

He hand waved it away as simple nerves getting the better of his ‘trainee’, and for what it was worth Marlene seemed to buy it.

Eventually a loud knock on the door signaled it was time to leave. Marlene gathered up a bag that contained her costume, and quickly changed. The mask was a fly’s and she even had a couple of fly wings attached to her back. The things were delicately made and she explained she’d received the thing as a gift from Baron Orion.

The humor wasn’t lost on Henry. Although with his mask he managed to hide any reaction he had to it.

The carriage driver was a young lad, couldn’t be older than fourteen or fifteen, and due to his appearance out in the daylight was obviously human. Marlene seemed uncomfortable stepping outside, constantly peering over her shoulder and faffing about. Even Ophelia wasn’t nearly this twitchy… well when she was having one of her ‘moments’ she was, but not all the time.

“You alright?” Henry asked.

“I just feel like someone’s watching me, ton of eyes on me.” Marlene said. “I don’t really know how I would describe it to you.”

“Its fine.” Henry replied, leading her to a fancy carriage. There were a couple of fine looking horses and even the driver’s seat had a cover to it. The thing was incredibly fancy.

“It’s like I’m the guest of honor.” Marlene said. “The Baron sure knows how to make a woman feel welcome doesn’t’ he?”

“I’m sure he’s sent these out to all of his guests.” Henry replied.

“It’s not like he’s here to greet us.” Ophelia added.

The three stepped into the carriage, and Henry found it was surprisingly comfortable, until the thing began to move, and the bumps caused by gaps in the cobblestone were unbearable. The journeyed down through the first two rings, then out of the marble gate into the forth, then out into the countryside. They passed several villages all the while heading northeast. Least Henry could tell based on where the sun was.

Ophelia pulled out a book and spent most of the time reading while Marlene simply watched the passing countryside. Their driver was silent as well, more focused on the road than anything else. Henry wanted to fall asleep but didn’t trust Ophelia to keep him safe, so he spent the rest of the ride in relative discomfort. The plush seats and his desire to nod off contrasting with the bumpy road and clear skies.

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>>3133796

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

They had entered the Norshie woods, a dense forest located due Northeast of Celeste. The region had been slowly shrinking as the forests were felled for lumber, but there were still places that were relatively cut off from the outside. They passed over a bridge with a lumber mill to the side, then the driver peaked his head inside the cabin and announced they were getting close.

Henry didn’t know this area too well. They must have been halfway to the next province by now. They rode for another ten minutes or so before they passed a fairly well built wooden signal tower, which was manned by a couple of guards. The carriage stopped for a moment while the driver explained where they were going and what they were doing, then the carriage started up once more. They passed over a couple more stone bridges, which were all in excellent condition. Made sense, the Baron wouldn’t be able to cross the nearby rivers and streams without them.

Finally, as they exited into a clearing, the chateau stretched before them. A magnificent structure of stone and timber. The structure had a fairly basic square shape, although its towers and overall structure loomed high over the forest, emphasized even further by the fact that there was a clear cut circle around it that stretched out for a couple hundred feet. The carriage climbed a hill before stopping outside of the main gate. This thing was more of a castle than a chateau. Perhaps to Vermillion and his ilk this was considered puny.

The driver flashed some sort of paperwork and the carriage was allowed entry. The gate opened and the carriage moved forwards. Inside was a fancy inner garden, with topiary, trees, and flower beds, all well maintained. Around the fountain was a cobblestone path, although the stones had all been cut so that there was only a smooth face. The carriage barely jostled on the final stretch of their journey as they rode a ring around the fountain.

Waiting at the end was a small procession of servants. One of which stood out in front of all of them. He seemed to be someone of importance based on the way the others showed him reverence. A young boy stood on a couple of boxes and yelled out to the entirty of the group.

“NOW APPROACHES LADY MARLENE ESTAVON AND HER ENTORAGE. HONORED GUESTS OF BARON ORION MONTPILIE’”

A fancy entrance indeed.

Decisions:
1. Hop out first and ensure the lady make it safely inside
2. Wait your turn, the lady must be seen to first
3. Scan around the yard for threats, stick to the carriage until you are finished
4. Ask Ophelia what she thinks
5. (write in)

>>3137322
Oh shit, what is the normal procedure here.
Don't we need to exit the vehicle first to help her down?

>>3137322
>Hop out first and ensure the lady make it safely inside. Scan around for threats as you do so.
We are the escorts. We are escorting the VIP.

>>3137378
>>3137334
writing, and feel free to roll 1d100 if you wish, no penalty for crit failing.

Rolled 73 (1d100)

>>3137389

Rolled 18 (1d100)

>>3137389

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>>3132000
posting the path to the chateau

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>>3137322
Henry made his way out of the carriage first, which was made easier by the fact he’d left the rucksack with Johnny in it back at the cemetery they’d passed. He figured it was either a local cemetary or the barons ancestral one. Regardless, he couldn’t actually get Johnny inside the damned thing, due to the protective wards still working exceedingly well. So he’d simply deposited Johnny in a tree log, and that was that. Due to the fact he hadn’t been violently scattered, Johnny was able to quickly pull himself back together again, and had watched as Henry made his way back to the carriage.

The inner courtyard was exceedingly well maintained, with a pair of flowerbeds on either side of the cobblestone path, some hedges behind them, and a sea of trees and high grass behind that. It all drew the eye up towards the stone walls of the castle itself. There were some glass windows on the second floor, but they were small and angled downwards, to be used in case of an assault. The inner areas would be far cozier, or at least Henry figured.

He helped the good lady down from her carriage, and without a word the young driver handed Henry a small piece of paper, then hopped back up onto the carriage and drove away. Henry pocketed the paper and continued onward at the Lady’s side, hand on a the pommel of his shortsword. He saw a couple of guards and a fancy looking knight among the people standing near the chateau’s actual entrance, all of which had far nicer looking blades than he did. He felt self-conscious all of a sudden.

While Henry took in the sights, Ophelia was extremely distracted. She was fiddling with her wand inside her cloak, and would have bumped into Lady Marlene if Henry hadn’t caught her. He had to restrain himself from cussing her out, since they were in the presence of such dignified company.

“Baron Orion extends you a warm greeting, Lady Estavon.” A well-dressed older gentleman said. “I am Butler Donavon, Master of Household for our gracious host. I hope your journey was quick and without incident.”

“Thank you, may we enter?” Lady Marlene asked.

“Of course, Custodian Borda will see you to the grand hall and the dining chambers.”

A young gentleman in a freshly laundered clothing led them towards the great hall. Marlene stared for a moment at Ophelia before looking towards Henry.

Decisions:
1. *Tell Ophelia to knock it off*
2. *elbow Ophelia in the gut, it probably won’t help much but it’ll make you feel better*
3. *Nod with a sullen expression*
4. (write in)

>>3137439
so as you can probably tell, the map isn't filled out. This is for good reason, as Henry doesn't actually know what lies inside. The map will be filled out more as Henry (and you) explore the Chateau further.

>>3137439
>*Nod with a sullen expression*

>>3137439
>3. *Nod with a sullen expression*
Then
>2. *elbow Ophelia in the gut*

>>3137623
>>3137498
writing

>>3137439
Henry nodded with a rather sullen expression. He walked a few more steps, then ‘gently’ elbowed Ophelia in the ribs. Not enough to hurt her but certainly enough to grab the woman’s attention. Ophelia nearly DROPPED the unstable wand, and glared at Henry for the remainder of their short trip into the chateau

Inside was a grand hall, Henry could see a set of open doors on the opposite side of the room that led into a sort of dining chamber, and a pair of doorways to his right and left. The floor was covered in fancy rugs and stone tiling. As his eyes tracked upwards he noted the fancy stone support columns and an even fancier wrought iron chandelier which really brought the whole room together. There were a pair of curved staircases leading up to the second floor, where there were yet more doors and a walkway circling the length of the room. On the walls were fancy illustrations of plants and wildlife as well as patterns rendered in loving detail, the reds yellows and oranges gave the massive room a fairly warm tone.

“If you’ll follow me miss.” Borda said, leading them further into the chateau, past the pillars and the staircases, and through the open doors, into a large dining chamber. It was far more plain than Henry had been expecting, but the man was a baron of a fairly rural area, so he supposed he shouldn’t have been expecting too much. There were a couple of suits of armor standing in recesses in the wall, a couple of much smaller chandeliers on the ceiling, and a long table with an assortment of identical dark oak chairs extending almost to the end of the room.

Past the dining chamber sat a larger sun room with an assortment of comfortable looking furniture and a whole host of windows which let in the late afternoon sunlight. There were about thirty guests milling about, not counting the various attendants and guards. There was a sitting area to one side for the various guards whom were useful only outside the castle walls. Henry figured that was where he would end up for the majority of time until dinner started.

“My apologies custodian.” Marlene said, “I would like you to lead me to a private area where I could don my costume, I’m afraid with the excitement of the travel I forgot, and it would be embarrassing for me to show myself without it on.

“Of course ma’am, this way.” Barda said, not missing a beat.

Decisions:
1. *Have Ophelia accompany her alone, wouldn’t do to impose like that*
2. *have the both of you go, just wait outside or something*
3. *go alone to guard her, GREAT IDEA, at least Ophelia can’t fuck things up too badly*
4. *say something* (Write in)
5. *write in)

>>3139172
>2. *have the both of you go, just wait outside or something*

>>3139172
this >>3139179

>>3139191
>>3139179
writing, this will leave them in the sunroom.

>>3139172
As the lady walked off with the custodian, Ophelia leaned in and loudly whispered.

“Do you think it’s a good idea to leave her alone?”

“It’ll be fine.” Henry said. “If it’s not… well, you know why we’re here.”

“Oh… right.” Ophelia replied.

“Come on lets head inside and get acquainted.” Henry said, quietly walking through the open double doors at the back of the dining room, and moving into the sunroom.

Inside there were a whole host of guests, and a few familiar faces. Henry immediately recognized a masked man with ornate armor and a couple of pairs of gauntlets and a sword on his belt. Venser, or a masked man with the same build and weapon choices as the man. No it was probably Venser. The man was chatting it up with a pair of well-dressed gentlemen, probably nobility. One was rotund and was happily eating some sort of meats off a tray held up by a servant. The other leaned on a dress cane and was seemingly entranced by Venser’s every word… well, at least it LOOKED like Venser was talking. The man’s mouth was covered and it was hard to tell. The mask he was wearing was also different. It was a bright white polished porcelain material, what sort of person had a mask they specifically brought to a party? The fat one was dressed as a beaver while the one with the cane was dressed as an elk. The masks would make it easy to tell who was who at the very least.

On the left side of the room, next to a small doorway, were a couple of inquisitors. Henry recognized Cassius, not exactly unexpectedly. This would complicate matters incredibly however. The man was decked out in a slightly dressier version of the normal Inquisitors uniform, much more silver trim. The other man however was someone Henry DIDN’T recognize. He had a scar running across his right eye, although it seemed to still be functioning. He also wore a pair of fingerless black gloves and had a couple of crossbows and a silver shortsword on his hip. The most interesting thing about him though was the cage he was holding.

There was a massive fucking tarantula inside of it. It had to have been as big as Henry’s own head.

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>>3139276
Neither was wearing a mask for the time being, which struck Henry as a bit odd, but the inquisition could pretty much do as they pleased.

There were a few other people milling about further inside the room, but Henry couldn’t really get a good look at them since they were sitting on some fancy wooden tables with tablecloths that held floral patterns on them. Everyone was involved in conversation, probably meeting each other and striking out all sorts of intrigues. At least that was Henry’s guess.

To the right there was a small assortment of fairly plain chairs. There were a few guards sitting in them, although far fewer than Henry would have expected. Perhaps preparation for the parties start. Nobody really stood out except a tower of a man decked out in steel plate and a broad steel longsword with a fairly intricate hilt. The man was gruff and had a fiery red head of hair which was well groomed in stark contrast to the scruff on his face. He looked incredibly impatient, tapping his foot incessantly on the ground and muttering to himself.

Decisions:
1. Head over to the Inquisitors and say hello to Cassius
2. Head over to Venser, maybe ask why he’s been following you
3. Try to strike up conversation with the impatient swordsman
4. Head deeper into the room, towards the windows.
5. Head over to the line of chairs meant for the ‘help’ and try to blend in, last thing you want it to make a scene.

>>3139299
>5. Head over to the line of chairs meant for the ‘help’ and try to blend in, last thing you want it to make a scene.

>>3139301
Night ya'll

>>3139299
Thanks for running
>5. Head over to the line of chairs meant for the ‘help’ and try to blend in, last thing you want it to make a scene.

>>3139299
>5. Head over to the line of chairs meant for the ‘help’ and try to blend in, last thing you want it to make a scene.

>>3139617
>>3139541
>>3139301
will write tomorrow

>>3139299
Henry grabbed Ophelia’s shoulder to get her attention, and when that didn’t work he shook her a little bit. Then he guided her over to the set of servants chairs and told her to sit down and to not move until instructed to, or if everyone else was leaving. He figured that would be good enough instruction wise, and sat down next to her. The woman was a hopeless fidget. She wasn’t permitted to fiddle with the experimental wand, much to her displeasure, but her own hair proved a good enough distraction, and thus she twirled away.

There were a few more guests arriving, and Henry could hear the announcements from all the way in the dayroom, the place was probably designed so sound could carry that far. A few barons and lords with various titles, and a business tycoon of some sort, interestingly enough, were said to be arriving.

Henry took another look at the inquisitors and realized Cassius wasn’t there anymore, where the hell had he gone off to?”

Henry was panicking internally when Lady Marlene returned, in her showy fly costume. She wore it well, at least Henry thought. He heard a couple of the guards talking about the woman, one asking the other if she was looking to remarry. So she was a widower then?

Henry also noticed another person back inside the grand hall, sitting underneath a staircase. He could only just make the person out at the angle he was on. But something about the man unnerved Henry. Probably an associate of the Baron, vampire maybe? Would explain why they were avoiding the dayroom. They had a metal helmet on, to hide their face more than likely… or maybe he was just being excessively paranoid.

“Yeah that’s the Baron’s little friend.” Someone from behind Henry said. He turned around and saw it was the impatient red-headed swordsman.

“He’s been sitting there since the whole shindig started, probably thinks he’s better than the rest of us. Feh.”

Decisions:
1. *say nothing*
2. “I don’t want to talk to you bud.”
3. “Yeah, but that’s what this whole party is about innit, bunch of people who are of ‘higher status’ deserved or not.”
4. (write in)

>>3143401
>3. “Yeah, but that’s what this whole party is about innit, bunch of people who are of ‘higher status’ deserved or not.”

>>3143401
this >>3143411

>>3143411
>>3143467
writing

>>3143401
“Yeah but that’s what this whole party is about innit? Bunch of people who are of ‘higher status’ deserved or not.”

“Heh, if only everyone had that opinion. Shame that what happened at the capital had to be started by the church.”

“What?” Henry asked.

“There’s only been one big piece of news out of the capital, and that’s their cleaning house, serves those damned demon worshipers right it does. Only wish I could’ve been there to do it myself.”

“Right.” Henry replied.

“Look where’s my manners, Stanley Chaplain, Regimental Captain of the Sol Province Militia.”

Stanley extended his hand out to shake, waiting for Henry to respond in kind.

Decisions:
1. Shake his hand (Y/N)

Optional:
1. “Lot of innocent people died during that whole dust up.”
2. “The most important thing at the capital is the High Seraphs disappearance
3. “Don’t fucking talk to me again.”
4. “Why do you hate the royal family so much?”
5. (write in)

>>3143580
>1. Shake his hand (Y/N)
Y
>4. “Why do you hate the royal family so much?”

>>3143580
this >>3143631

>>3143682
>>3143631
writing

>>3143580
Henry shook the man’s hand after a small bit of hesitation. He might as well be cordial and polite regardless of his own feelings on the matter. In all honesty it wasn’t his fight, it was Charles’ and he wasn’t here.

“Why do you hate the royal family so much?” Henry asked.

“Who doesn’t at this point?” Stanley asked. “Since they died everyone’s who’s been too afraid to so much as look at em wrong has started spilling all sorts of dirt. Kind of disgusting I’d say. Nobody should be powerful enough that simply badmouthing them in a bar gets you gone.”

“That doesn’t really answer my question.” Henry replied.

“Right well, I don’t like em since they were completely out of touch with the guys working in the fields and the factories. Hell even the church… well… look I don’t like most of the higher ranking royals. They sit up in their fancy cities and castles while the rest of us have to live and die in hamlets which don’t always have walls. At least the church gives us some protection, and they care, sometimes. But it’s never been enough, and it’s only gotten worse in recent months.”

“Kind of funny when you’re at a party with a bunch of noblemen.”

“Feh, the only reason I’m even here is my superior. Although Baron Orion ain’t nearly the worst royal, hell I’d even say he’s one of the good ones.”

“Why’s that?”

“Well he gives a damn. He’s protected his own people in the nearby hamlets and towns on multiple occasions even when he didn’t have to. Guy doesn’t even have much reason to protect many of these places outside his obligation, and that’s something I can respect.”

“What?” Henry asked.
“A royal’s duty is to his people and his land. Although as of late its more to his land and he sees his people as his property. Orion… well he is fairly hands off from what I understand. Long as nobody disrespects him publically, which is all well and good I suppose.”

Decisions:
1. “Yeah it’s good to see there are still a few good noblemen left. You hear about Grutzberg?”
2. “Your Superior?”
3. “Fancy sword you got there.”
4. “So if not the church and not the royalty, who the hell would take charge? We’re not exactly swimming in options.”
5. (write in)

>>3143723
>4. “So if not the church and not the royalty, who the hell would take charge? We’re not exactly swimming in options.”

>>3143752
Support

>>3143764
>>3143752
writing

>>3143723
>m
“So if not the church and not the royalty, who the hell would take charge? We’re not exactly swimming in options.”

“The people obviously, the Commons. Most people get by well enough as is, and to be quite honest we’d get by better if we didn’t have to worry about the taxman calling or a church official demanding obscene amounts for his now failing services. I’d say most of the provinces would be better off on their own, without the capital cities bloat smothering them.”

“You’re not serious are you?” Henry asked.

“What do you mean? Maybe it’s not polite to talk about it, but I’ve never been one afraid to speak my mind. Plenty of people have always had bad blood with the cities, Only now their services aren’t working. Maybe it’s too soon to tell, but the longer this goes on the worse things are going to be.”

“Without angelic support most of the outer provinces would be utterly lost.” Ophelia said, butting in. “I don’t suppose you have a plan for that?”

“Angels support humanity, not the church. They only speak with the Solarch because he’s the one in the high Cathedral. If some other ruler or king stepped in, they’d talk to him, like the days of old.”

“So you’re basing your opinions on an old legend?” Ophelia asked. “The days of old are a series of myths, they didn’t actually happen. No angel would bow before a man, no matter how great.”

“You have no faith then.” Stanley replied. “Pity, someone as hardhearted as you would do better with the cult of progress. Maybe shove some more people into soulless factories and foul up some more of the coastline.”

Ophelia looked ready to explode after those comments.

Decisions:
1. “Let just agree to disagree.”
2. “He has a point Ophelia.”
3. “You have no idea what you’re talking about my friend.”
4. “Do you think that outside parties wouldn’t take notice? Take advantage? Would they even allow the people to take control?”
5. “Calm down Ophelia, it’s just talk.”
6. “I might as well warn you that my friend here is a mage and she’s has an itchy casting hand.”
7. (write in)

>>3143873
>5. Whisper “Calm down Ophelia, it’s just talk.”
>3. “You have no idea what you’re talking about my friend.”
>4. “Do you think that outside parties wouldn’t take notice? Take advantage? Would they even allow the people to take control?”
>"And even if all power was in the hands of the people, answering to no noble or angel or what have you, you think everything would be perfect then? You don't think people would be free to exercise their stupidity, with most people too lazy to stop the real corruption and speak up about the real dangers?"
Let's face it, medieval times or otherwise, shit is gonna go wrong regardless of who holds power and why.

>>3143873
>Put hand on Ophelia shoulder
>"Deep breaths, deep breaths"
>"Maybe a change of topic? Something no political"

>>3144752
>>3144017
writing

>>3143873
Henry laid a hand on Ophelia’s shoulder, the flipped her head around at him and angrily glared. Henry could almost see sparks of magic coming out of her eyes.

“Calm down Ophelia, its just talk, deep breaths now.” Henry said.

“It’s just talk girl.” Stanley said. “Talk isn’t something worth getting angry over.”

“You have no idea what you’re talking about my friend.” Henry replied. “Can we change the topic maybe, something not so political?”

“So you’re not willing to discuss the topic at hand then? Do you not understand or do you refuse to?”

“So someone deposes the church and the crown, do you think that outside parties wouldn’t take notice? Take advantage? Would they even allow the Commons to take control? And even if all that power was in the hands of the people, answering to no one and nothing. Would everything be perfect? Do you really think that people can be trusted to exercise restraint and caution? Most people just want to be fat and happy, they don’t think about the long term. You give the world over to the Commons, and the only common thing will be misery.”

“Feh, a royalist then?” Stanely replied.

“I have no love for the crown, but I have no love for the Commons either. I’ve yet to see good behavior from either group.”

“And the church?” Stanley asked.

“Don’t even get me started on the feckin church.” Henry said, quietly.

“I think I understand a bit better. You think because everyone and everything is flawed, nothing will work. I misjudged you at first, and I apologize for you, but that sort of rank pessimism is unacceptable, and will lead nowhere. Believing everything ends in failure is no way to live, might as well just get it over with and jump off a tower.”

Decision:
1. “If we were anywhere else I’d let Ophelia do whatever the heck she wanted to you.”
2. “Fine, fair enough. But we’re done talking.”
3. “Talking with you here is too dangerous, it’s not really fair to trade verbal barbs when we have to hold our hands behind our backs.”
4. (write in)

>>3145804
>2. “Fine, fair enough. But we’re done talking.”

>>3145877
this

>>3145961
>>3145877
writing

>>3145804
“Fine, fair enough, but we’re done talking.” Henry said, trying to defuse the situation.

Stanley nodded sagely but the man was incredibly smug. Henry was pretty sure he hated the man, but it wasn’t worth the effort. Ophelia had completely deflated and she was back to playing with her hair again. So it seemed as the wave of anger and discomfort had passed.

The party continued for a little bit, with the guests milling about and the sun setting lower on the horizon. Stanley got into a heated argument with another man, bearing the mark of a paladin’s order, Henry couldn’t quite make the mark out but the lantern hanging off the man’s shoulder made it fairly clear. What wasn’t clear was the man’s relationship to Venser.

The man was dressed in a few pieces of leather and chainmail armor, although far less heavily armored than Stanley was. He had almond colored hair and eyes, and was fiercely defending both the church and the orders of paladins from Stanley’s arguments. Putting in far more effort than Henry would have thought necessary. The arguments continued until a bell was run from the door back to the kitchen, putting an end to the fireworks.

“Dinner is served, and the Baron wishes to make a speech as well after everyone has had their fill.” Butler Donavon said.

Henry noticed that Cassius still hadn’t returned, although the other man didn’t appear to be nervous. Something wasn’t quite right in Henry’s mind, he REALLY hoped he wasn’t expected to pin the upcoming murder on one of the only Inquisitor’s he could stomach.

The guests, Lady Marlene included, milled their way back into the main dining chamber, while a couple of servants hastily prepared a couple of tables in the sunrooms for the guards, Henry included. How lovely, he’d get a free meal out of all of this too.

Ophelia seemed fairly bored now, grumbling about how this wasn’t a fun party since she wasn’t allowed to actually DO anything. Henry found that kind of funny in a way.

Stanley and a bunch of the other guards got up to head to the now open tables, while the paladin stuck back as if waiting for something.

“Excuse me sir, could I have a word?” The paladin asked.

Decisions:
1. “Look I’m not in the mood to talk.”
2. “Yeah I agree, he is a complete asshole.”
3. “You a friend of Venser’s?”
4. “Make it quick.”
5. “Sure pal.”
6. (write in)

>>3146018
>5. “Sure pal.”
But
4. “Make it quick.”

>>3146018
this>>3146030
Happy new year, and goodnight

>>3146071
>>3146030
writing, and happy new year everyone

>>3146018
“Sure pal, but make it quick.”

“You don’t truly believe that the church and the crown are unable to be saved?” The paladin asked, more worried than upset.

“What is a Lantern Apprentice doing here?” Ophelia asked, pointing to a gold emblem on the young man’s armor.

“Guarding Venser ma’am.” The boy said. “I have no doubt he can protect himself of course.”

“He even had a weapon on him.” Henry muttered.

“That’s a ceremonial blade you see, nobody is allowed to have actual weapons if they wish to dine at the grand table while in the presence of nobility, even a king isn’t allowed to.”

“Makes sense, I suppose.” Ophelia replied.

“Would just get me nervous, being surrounded by armed men with no means of defending myself.”

“Unless you had magic.” Ophelia butted in.

“Which I may or may not have.” Henry added.

“Well look now we’re getting off topic…” The Trainee Paladin said.

Decisions:
1. “Didn’t get your name kid.”
2. “So Venser isn’t supposed to be traveling by himself?”
3. “Look, I just had this conversation and you just had this conversation, it didn’t end well either time.”
4. “Yeah I don’t really trust either for my own reasons. Lotta people don’t kid.”
5. (write in)

>>3147960
>3. “Look, I just had this conversation and you just had this conversation, it didn’t end well either time.”
"And parties like this aren't good places to have such debates either."

>>3147960
backing >>3147981

>>3148003
>>3147981
writing

>>3147960
“Look, I just had this conversation and you just had this conversation, it didn’t end well either time.”

“Well perhaps that was just due to our ‘intellectual sparring partner’ being a bit out of his league.”

Ophelia chuckled at the joke, but Henry merely rolled his eyes.

“Look, parties like this aren’t good places to have debates like this, talking about whether or not the crown is worthy or not is not something to be discussed in the presence of nobility.”

“Fair point.” The Trainee said. “Perhaps another time then, it’s given me much to think about regardless.”

“Have fun with that, we’re heading to eat.” Henry said, standing up and heading over to an empty table with Ophelia in tow.”

Henry took stock of the room. Stanley was having dinner by himself, unsurprisingly. The Inquisitor was also sitting alone, throwing pieces of fruit at his pet spider which the creature happily caught. Cassisus was still nowhere to be found but the man still seemed unconcerned. There were about a dozen other guards sitting about, idling and what not. Nobody really knew anyone else, and nobody was really comfortable talking with one another. Henry watched as the nobility was served their food, The Baron giving a speech of some sort while the others ate, then after that was done the man took a seat and dined with the rest. Henry wondered whether vampires viewed eating normal food as a chore or a delight. There were four guards inside the dining hall as well, and about twenty five or so guests. A fairly medium sized party from what Henry understood.

Eventually, the cloaked figure under the stairwell made a move, or at least Henry thought he did, the movement of the man made his head hurt, and for some reason he didn’t think to use mage sight. Nobody else seemed to notice what was going on. Henry blinked a few times and rubbed his eyes, trying to get a hold of himself. When he turned back to the table the man and Lady Marlene were both gone, and his headache had subsided.

It seemed the game was about to begin.

Decision:
1. “Show time Ophelia.”
2. *try to follow the two*
3. *try to find where Cassius has gone*
4. *preform an action* (write in)
5. *cast a spell* (write in)
6. (write in)

>>3148039
>1. “Show time Ophelia.”
But quiet enough that others don't over hear, maybe in a way that doesn't sound like we know something is going down?

>>3148039
see >>3148118

>>3148136
>>3148118
writing

>>3148039
“Show time Ophelia.” Henry said quietly.

Ophelia took a break from stuffing her face with good food and mumbled something. Henry decided not to tell her that her mouth was full, she probably realized. Glancing over at a clock hanging on a wall to his right he took account of the time, about 5:30. The gears inside it churned and a couple of components Henry didn’t know the names of swung back and forth. He found himself unable to eat any more of the food. Ophelia helped herself to his plate as the minutes ticked by.

He wondered what was taking so long, was there some kind of ritual involved? Did the time matter? Was it location based? Perhaps the duke wanted to kill her himself, and they were holding her somewhere.

He took the time to read over the note the driver had handed him. Grabbing it out of his pocket and tearing open the fancy wax seal.

‘To whom it may concern,

I have been contracted to drive three individuals, Lady Marlene Esatvon and two members of her retinue, to Chateau Hockrhine, and arrive no later than four o clock. At midnight I have been contracted to escort the members of the retinue back to celeste safely. Avoiding both angelic and church forces, as well as anything hostile that may be encountered on the route until such time that this carriage returns to Celeste.

If pickup from the castle is deemed impossible, this driver will be stationed at the nearby ancestral cemetery of the Hockrhine family. Until such time as noon the next day, or until the members of the retinue emerge.

No Hostility is expected from either the local fauna or the local villagers.

Give this message to one of the men accompanying Lady Estavon. After the message is read, the letter will be destroyed.’

Henry let the words sink in for a moment, then gasped as the words leapt off the paper and scattered like dust. He took a look around and noticed that the Paladin Trainee was staring at him. Henry glared back until the young man turned his gaze back towards his plate.

File: OOF.jpg (10 KB, 311x162)

10 KB JPG

>>3149798
So what was that exactly?” Ophelia asked.

“Some sort of enchanted letter, self-deleting. It was either timed or knew when I had finished reading.”

“Oh, was that all?” Ophelia asked, returning back to her food.

Henry took another look around to see if anyone else was having a look at them. Nobody had noticed, or was dumb enough to continue looking.

What the hell was taking so long? The murder should have happened by now, right?

Henry took a moment to glance at the grand dining table, Baron Orion was whispering to his Butler about something.

Henry was about to relay that something was weird when a horrifying scream resonated through the Chateau. Henry thought he heard heavy banging from upstairs, like something was being flung around. Several of the guards rushed back towards the dining hall, to protect the guests although none of them unsheathed their weapons yet. Seemed ediqite was more important.

Henry noticed small amounts of debris were raining down from the ceiling. Something bad was happening.

He didn’t have the wonder what for very long, as a second scream, much closer sounded off, then a horrifying gurgle as two pieces of someone were thrown down into the grand hall from the second floor. The body scattered into ash on impact. Sending up a massive plume which obscured the room for a moment.

===================================(START OF CASE 5)===============================

Decisions:
1. “Oh fuck.”
2. “Ophelia stop eating and follow me, we need to speak to the Baron.”
3. “Let’s get the fuck out of here.”
4. “Where the fuck is Cassius?”
5. *talk to someone* (write in)
6. *preform an action* (write in)
7. *cast a spell* (write in)

>>3149803
>“Oh fuck.”
>"OH FUCK."
>"Ophelia stop eating and follow me, we need to speak to the Baron.”
>(whisper to Ophelia) "Looks like our assassin fucked up. We need to figure out what to do next and how to go about this."

>>3149819
Supportin

>>3149819
>>3149827
writing

>>3149803
Henry didn’t know exactly what had happened, two halves of a man had tumbled over the railing after a heavy fight, and then had exploded into dust… wait. No that wasn’t dust, that was ASH.

“Oh Fuck.” Henry said, beginning to become terrified.

“What?” Ophelia asked. slowly raising a piece of fruit to her mouth and glancing around nervously.

“OH FUCK.” Henry said, realizing all of the horribly implications of what had just happened. As the dust cleared he could make out a pile of clothes half obscured by the dust, but he knew who those were, that man who’d been sitting underneath the staircase away from the light.

Ophelia began to slowly raise up another piece of fruit to her mouth when Henry grabbed her wrist and pulled her face close to his. Ophelia was stunned, her mouth hung agape and the piece of fruit she’d been chewing fell to the floor.

Chaos had begun to break out but the Baron was trying to calm everyone down. Some of the guests had begun to rush for the exit when a cross bow bolt snapped off near Henry and into the grand entrance hall doorway, stopping everyone in their tracks.

Henry spun around and saw the inquisitor holding a now emptied crossbow and with the massive spider perched on his shoulder looking like it was about to lunge.

“Fucking hell where did he run off this time.” The man mumbled, a gruff and authoritative voice.

Henry was about to ask him what the fuck he was doing firing that thing with two dozen people in front of it. But the man walked over to the guests and began to bark orders.

>>3149895
“LISTEN UP, THIS IS A MURDER INVESTIGATION NOW. NOBODYS LEAVING UNTIL WE GET A HANDLE ON THIS.”

“Fucking hell he stole my line.” Henry muttered. “Look Ophelia, stop eating and follow me, we need to speak to the Baron.”

Henry once again grabbed Ophelia by the wrist and half dragged her away from the table. The woman was happily eating fruit out of a now abandoned fruit basket. Henry was almost impressed by how much she didn’t care that a man had been violently murdered. Of course this was less due to resolve or the ability to stay calm under pressure, and more apathy. Still, it helped.

He whispered into Ophelia’s ear as they approached the table where the Baron was taking stock of the situation. He’d handed over a guest list to the Inquisitor. The man was rifling through the list while the tarantula on his shoulder was making soft hissing noises at anyone else who got close.

Venser was speaking with the young paladin apprentice while casting white mana magic out of his hands at the guests. Henry guessed they were calm spells. He also noticed a ward had been set up around the room right as they’d entered. It seemed to just be a basic ward that would drive away dark creatures. Henry doubted it would do much against whatever the hell had done this.

“Looks like our assassin fucked up Ophelia, we need to figure out what we do next, and if the party’s still on. I want to know if I can still get paid for this little trip.”

“What?” Ophelia asked. “Shouldn’t we let the professionals sort this out?”

“Shut up Ophelia.” Henry replied.

He didn’t want to go over why they didn’t want a fucking inquisitor looking things over in a vampiric estate, investigating a crime they were technically complicit in.

Decisions:
1. “Baron Orion, a word if you please?”
2. “So what now sir?”
3. “Nobody is allowed to leave then?”
4. “What’s going on?!”
5. “WE’RE ALL GONNA FUCKING DIE.”
6. (Write in)
7. *inspect the ash pile*
8. *cast a spell* (write in)

>>3149899
>6. (Write in)
If we're supposed the murder victim's guard, then we need to at least show some fuckin concern for our charge, even if she was supposed to be killed.
So we need to try and look for her, or ask where she is, so others can clearly state we were concerned for her well being.

>>3149899
This >>3149938 but also investigate that ash pile. What sort of thing can fuck up a vampire that badly? And could we maybe get them to kill Vermillion for us?

>>3149943
>>3149938
writing

>>3149899
“Has anyone seen Lady Estavon?” Henry asked, pretending to be extremely panicked.

In fact he was only SLIGHTLY panicked. Of course that could easily change if whatever had done… THAT was still in the chateau. Henry watched as a few of the guests mumbled to themselves but nobody seemed to know where she had gone. A couple people even said they hadn’t noticed that she had even left. The fat man in the beaver mask suggested sending a servant to check the lavatory.

The baron coughed politely through his raven’s mask.

“I don’t think anyone has seen her since a little while before the accident, I do hope she wasn’t harmed like the poor gentleman out there.” Baron Orion said.

The man sounded slightly worried and his speech was a tad quicker than it had been before the body had been hurled from the second floor.

“Perhaps she’ll turn up.” The baron continued. “For now the safest thing to do would be to retreat to the Chateau’s keep further inside. From there we could establish a search party and expand out.”

“Bad idea.” The inquisitor said. “If we do that its liable to try attacking all of us. Best thing to do would be to move in groups of five or six. That way it can’t attack all of us at once. Do you have any servants nearby who could escort your guests to the keep?”

“Inquisitor Marcus, while I do appreciate the concern I will NOT be told how to act in my own home!”

“Feh.” Marcus remarked, “Fine, your funeral.”

“Well I never.” One of the guests remarked. “How rude.” Another loudly exclaimed.

Henry poked Ophelia in the side and motioned for her to follow him away from the debacle. Nobody really knew what was going on and nobody was even considering the recently murdered man.

“I Say we hunt down the fucker and kill it!” Stanely voice echoed out from the dining hall. We string the fucker up and throw it over the wall, let a good hanging sort it out.”

Right…

>roll 1d100 to inspect the body

Rolled 94 (1d100)

>>3150049
>>roll 1d100 to inspect the body
Before the inquisitors tell us to get away from the "body"

Rolled 90 (1d100)

>>3150049

>>3150058
>>3150062
>those fuckin rolls
writing tomorrow

>>3150049
Henry pulled out a pair of leather gloves from his pockets and put them on, then carefully rifled through the main ash pile as the plumes of ash settled around him. Ophelia was mumbling something and keeping watch on the second floor to ensure they wouldn’t get surprised. Henry took a moment to glance upwards at the second floor, seeing a heavy impression in the ceiling where the dead vampire had been flung into, and the shattered railing coated in ash where the vampire had been flung ‘’’through’’’. Henry figured the man had been split in half by the sheer force of the impact. Whatever had done this would make short work of a single man. This was something dangerous.

Turning his attention back to the ash pile. He once again sifted through the ash pile, finding several pieces of evidence. First of all, a note, it had been badly soaked before the damp blood had turned to ash but had somehow survived completely intact.

‘Mister Knight, the target is a woman wearing a fly costume at a party being held in Chateau Hockrhine. You are to lure her away from the festivities at a time of your choosing, and you will then dispose of her in a method of your choice, but you must ensure the body is intact, recognizable, and able to be found by the Chateau’s staff. Afterwards, leave the estate and you will find your payment at the usual dead drop. Complete this task successfully and many doors will open to you.’ ~CS~

He figured Mister Knight was a pseudonym, not the man’s real name, and that CS was also the same. Neither the name or the initials stuck out to him, although for all he knew CS was Vermillion. Or an associate of his. Regardless it helped him little.

On the man’s person was a shattered steel short sword with a fairly plain hilt and blade. Nothing that would attract much notice. Also inside the former vampire’s pant leg was a plain throwing dagger. The man had not even had time to use the thing. There was also a small silver pendant which was opened to reveal a small inner compartment. Inside was a small charcoal image of a tree. Henry didn’t really know the significance of the thing, and figured it was more of a personal belonging.

He checked the man’s gloves and found that the left glove was coated in a green substance. He grabbed a matchstick out of another of his pockets and poked at the green liquid with it. It had a similar consistency to blood and he figured it belonged to whatever had killed the vampire. The poor bastard had at least managed to get a hit in. Checking the shattered sword again, Henry found a few more droplets of the green liquid, confirming his suspicions.

>>3152281
As a sort of last minute decision, Henry rifled through the mans pockets and found a small coin pouch containing seven silver coins.

“Perhaps I could investigate further?” Ophelia asked. “I’d like a crack at this whole investigation thing.”

“If you can figure out anything else about the man, how he died, or anything else usable you’re welcome to try.” Henry replied.

Henry glanced around and saw that the Baron and the Inqusitor were having a heated conversation while Venser was stuck trying to defuse the tense situation. A few of the other guests were gathering with their personnel. The one’s who’d been paranoid to bring guards into a perfectly defendable chateau that was. There were only about sixteen or so guards. Four from the Chateau’s own staff, and twelve from outside, including Stanely and the Apprentice Paladin.

Decision By Henry:
1. *try to help defuse the situation* (will begin the action)
2. *side with the baron* (will begin the action)
3. *side with the inquisitor* (will begin the action)
4. *Check the exterior to see if anything has changed*
5. *head down into a separate room* (consult the map)
6. *say something, preform an action, cast a spell, etc* (Write in)

Decision By Ophelia (pick one)
1. *Cast show moments* (will let you see the last thirty seconds of a person’s existence, this generally will be a sort of moving window, but a dead man has a permanent set of moments)
2. *cast sleep on one of the guests* (this will be done without consulting Henry of course, he would obviously agree with you)
3. *cast fond scry on the locket* (will show you a moment in time when the owner had the object, generally one in which there are strong emotions displayed. Factors determining the owner include who owned it last and emotional connection to the object itself.)
4. (write in, feel free to suggest spells but I’m going to be very careful with what I allow)

>>3152284
I forgot to mention that you need to decide what evidence if any you guys will pocket. The rest will be left at the scene unless otherwise specified.

>>3152287
Remind me again, we're supposed to pin the murder on someone else? But the murder didn't even happen because the assassin fucked up and Lady Marlene Estavon is a fae who's been hiding her powelevel this whole time. So now what do we do? Do we solve the case normally? Do nothing? Pin convincing shit on someone else, because even though there wasn't a real murder there is clearly evidence of conspiracy to murder?

>>3152332
Supposed to pin it on the inquisitor.
And would it count if we just told the inquisitor she was a fae, and let him actually kill her?

>>3152345
Was an inquisitor the framing target, or could it have been anyone else?

>>3152358
Either of the 2 inquisitors.

>>3152332
>>3152345
>>3152358
>>3152363
nobody's actually voted on anything

as for the 'case' itself well, you were supposed to pin it on someone, and there would have been an additional reward for pinning it on an inquisitor. Things have gone completely off the rails however. Beyond that... up to you.

>>3152284
>Decision By Henry:
Inform the baron we need to look for our charge.
>>3152284
>Decision By Ophelia (pick one)
1. *Cast show moments* (will let you see the last thirty seconds of a person’s existence, this generally will be a sort of moving window, but a dead man has a permanent set of moments)
So we can get an idea of what we might expect if we fight

>>3154172
Bottom line is Vermillion wants Lady Marlene Estavon to fucking die.

>>3152284
This >>3154188 but also
>Henry: stealthily loot the seven silver coins off the ashed vampire
>Ophelia: *cast fond scry on the locket*

>>3152284
Also
>Ophelia: *cast fond scry on the broken sword too*
Assuming vamp had strong feelings and emotions as he got BTFO harder than he had ever been BTFO before in his unlife, it should work as well with how recent it was

>>3154188
>>3154199
coinflipping for Ophelia's decision

1 for the first poster, 2 for the second

after that roll 1d100, 1 for the pickpocket and the second for Ophelia's spell

Rolled 1 (1d2)

>>3154234
>coinflip

Rolled 57, 36 = 93 (2d100)

>>3154234
One for the pickpocket, and one for the spell

Rolled 46, 83 = 129 (2d100)

>>3154234
OKAY HERE

>>3154254
>>3154256
57 for pickpocket is a pass... and 83 is a pass for fucking sure since its Ophelia doing it.

>>3152284
Henry turned his head back towards the dining hall, and found that everyone was too busy arguing to bother looking at the 'corpse'. So he swung the silver coins into his pocket and called it a day. He stood up, dusted himself off, and streched. If he was going to die tonight he might as well die comfortably. He made a mental note to call Johnny for help when he had a moment. Pulling out a demonic contract near a couple of inquistors, a couple of paladins, and possibly other church personal / magic users was one of those grand ideas that got told at bars as funny stories.

(+7 silver coins)

Ophelia on the other hand was busy conjuring up the mana for a complicated spell. The mana load wasn't severe, but the spell could easily fizzle out if not cast and maintained properly. She remembered her time practicing the spell on mice, both living and dead. Fun times watching a mouse's prespective as it ran through a cage or onto a wheel. Cute critters, not like rats, she hated rats. Some people said they were the same as mice, but that wasn't true. Not just for the phyisiological differences, but they had behavioral differences too. If only more people noticed such things, instead of acting like animals...

What was she doing again? Oh right the spell.

With a practiced ease she flung the readied spell at the ash pile, and her eyes were enveloped by a haze of blue mana. Henry would have noticed if the man wasn't watching the dinner room with growing concern.

>>3154320
Ophelia'sision clouded and then sharpened as she slipped into the head of the dead vampire. The man was holding onto a sword with a green liquid on it, and was running quickly towards the grand hall. His hands were shaking violently and his breath was hurried. Suddendly the man stopped and slowly craned his head downwards to reveal his chest had been piereced by what looked to be a large thing leg, like that of an insect or a spider. Ophelia felt as if she'd been suddendly flung backwards, and nearly lost her balance and her connection to the moments.

She watched as a second arm grabbed around the man's head, constricting it. The man was slammed into the ceiling then down onto the stone floor, sword shattering from the impact. Then he was flung through the railing, splitting in twain from the sheer force of the impact. Ophelia watched as he spun around, giving her a brief glimspe of the assialent. A long and thin, almost wispy form which looked like it was unsteady, shifting as the man's sense of time slowed down, death was approaching swiftly.

She watched and saw that the creature had taken notice of her... wait was SHE being watched now? She gave thought to cutting the connection, but now she was curious. She didn't even know that this could happen... it was FASCINATING...

She saw a couple of glowing red eyes cutting through the darkness, and the sound of chittering feet. Like a swarm of angry ants... then nothing. Drat.

"Henry?" Ophelia asked. Turning around to see Henry being harrased by the inquisitor, saying something about how he should get the fuck back with the rest of the people and to stop messing with the corpse.

Decisions: (by Ophelia)
1. "It was a vampire, does the church even care about his buriel rites?"
2. "Stop whatever you're doing, I have something important to say!"
3. "You have fun with that Henry, I'm going to get something to eat, that spell made me hungry."
4. (write in)

>>3154328
>1. "It was a vampire, does the church even care about his burial rites?"

>>3154328
This >>3154334
>A long and thin, almost wispy form which looked like it was unsteady, shifting as the man's sense of time slowed down, death was approaching swiftly.
>She watched and saw that the creature had taken notice of her... wait was SHE being watched now? She gave thought to cutting the connection, but now she was curious. She didn't even know that this could happen... it was FASCINATING...
Inception?

>>3154353
More like a hijack of spell by powerful being.
Sometimes when you cast magic that views such things, even from the past, they'll know it.

>>3154358
bingo

>>3154353
>>3154334
writing

>>3154328
“It was a vampire, does the church even care about his burial rites?”

“ I don’t give a toss about burial rites right now, you’re messing with a crime scene. Lord above knows what evidence you’ve tampered with. Now get the fuck back to the dining hall and out of my site while I have a look, and lord help you if you’ve helped yourself to anything. The Inqusitor said.

“What did I miss?” Cassius asked, working his way down the steps with a terrified looking maid behind him.

“WHERE THE FUCK HAVE YOU BEEN YOU IDIOT?!” The inquisitor yelled.

“Angels above Marcus… I heard the noise and the damage but it’s just a bloodsucker…”

“It ain’t the feckin bloodsucker we’re worried about you moron, now go escort these nimrods back to the rest of the group while I have a looksee at this.” Marcus said. The spider on his shoulder was alternating between bouncing on his shoulder in what appeared to be excitement and desperately trying to hold on as Marcus spoke.

Cassius turned towards Henry and a look of recognition, then confusion, then acceptance appeared on his face in succession.

“Come on now.” Cassius said “Don’t make this difficult yeh?”

“Assholes.” Ophelia muttered. Letting loose a small cry of terror when Marcus stared her down. The man had good hearing, and decent self-control.

“So what the fuck is happenin then?” Cassius asked.

Decision:
1. “Not really sure.”
2. “A murder.”
3. “More than I can let on.”
4. “The Baron is a vampire, his friend’s an ash pile.”
5. “I think someone was trying to set you up”
6. (write in)

>>3154414
>6. (write in)
"Something that can one shot a fucking vampire, and shatter a steel sword like glass."

>>3154414
this >>3154418

>>3154418
Sounds accurate
+1

>>3154418
>>3154422
>>3154996
writing

>>3154414
“Something that can tear a vampire in twain and shatter a steel sword like glass.” Ophelia said.

“That’s bad.” Cassius replied. “Ain’t a demon or we’d already know it, can’t be a feckin furbag since there aren’t even a spec of moon out yet…”

“I assume that makes things worse?” Henry asked.

“Yeah, even if it was a demon at least we’d have an idea of what we were dealin with… but this, well, worst thing you can be up against is an unknown creature.” Cassius mused, as he lead them back over to the rest of the party goers. Some of whom had removed their masks, while others kept their masks on, as forgotten afterthoughts.

“Right.” Henry said, agreeing.

“Right now priority is keeping the civilians safe. Fraid we can’t go on a hunt till then.”

Decisions:
1. “We?”
2. “I’m staying put with the others Cassius, sorry but this is a heck of a lot more dangerous than the last two times.”
3. “Yeah, shame on that. Would’ve saved us time if the blighter had just shown itself.”
4. (write in)

File: MONKEY'S PAW.jpg (27 KB, 512x384)

27 KB JPG

>>3156894
>“Uh huh. Who's we?”
>"Speaking of the blighter, I checked what's left of the vamp. Never seen blood like this before. Have you?" Show Cassius the green monster blood sample
Not quite pic related, but real close huh?

File: Monster Blood.jpg (170 KB, 690x1000)

170 KB JPG

>>3156945
WRONG PIC
here's the right pic

>>3156948
>>3156945
writing

>>3156894
“Uh huh, Who’s we?” Henry asked.

“Me Marcus, you, and anyone else who has the stones to squash this fucker.” Cassius said. “It can’t have gotten too far, and unlike that vampire we’ll have a hell of an advantage in numbers. If we can convince the guards to help we’ll have a real shot at this.”

“The hell do you think I’d be interested in any of that?” Henry asked.

“You’ve thrown yourself into the breach twice now friend, once at New Haven, and once at Braise. You could’ve just run off after you nearly died at New Haven, but you didn’t, fuck from what Grom said… you saved a lot of people…. Same with Blaise! All we did was kill a bunch of undead but you nipped the source in the bud! Look you’re good at this, and we could use your help, I’m sure I can get Marcus to understand, he’ll get it after looking at the corpse at least. We kill this feckin thing and then hit a bar afterwards or something… heck I bet the Baron has some good brandy.”

“Right.” Henry muttered, wincing slightly. He hadn’t enjoyed being bashed to a pulp, although watching Vive die had given him some degree of satisfaction. Same with whatever that kids name was back at Blaise.

“Speaking of the blighter, I had a look at the corpse, if you can call it that. Never seen blood like this before, it’s like a green ooze. Know anything about it?” Henry asked.

“I’d have to go back and check, be a minute.” Cassius said. “Can’t let Marcus have all the fun.”

Henry walked back towards the guests, where some outrage was brewing. A couple of them, nobility of some sort, were arguing with the Baron, complaining that they had no right to be kept here. The Baron was attempting to explain that since they were representatives of the inquisition they technically did have the right to keep them here, for their own safety, anyways.

Eventually Cassius and Marcus returned. Marcus spoke with the Baron for a bit while Cassius gave his own thoughts on the blood.

>>3157158
“Weirdest thing. I’ve seen a lot of blood in my day, but that wasn’t a human’s or any normal animals… it was kinda like … tree sap…” Cassius said, slipping into thought.

The man became deathly quiet at that.

“We need to move out, to the keep, Baron. You know your own home better than any of us so I think you’d be the right man to lead these people to safety.” Marcus said, extending the first olive branch of the evening.

“Are you sure that is wise?” Stanley asked. “We should focus on evacuating the nobility, yourself included Baron. Find a local village or town, fortify ourselves, then gather our forces an launch a counter offensive.”

“Horrible idea.” Marcus said. “Out there is dense forest for miles around, easy place for creatures to ambush us. Not to mention we have no idea what this thing can do, if it can cast magic, or if it has friends.”

“That is true, but it will be a cold day in the three hells before I abandon my ancestral home to some monster.” The Baron explained. “Only to have it tarnished by a bunch of foolhardy militiamen who will probably end up slaughtered at the hands of this… thing.”

Stanley quickly shut his trap and let the proverbial adults continue their talking

Decision By Henry
1. Go along with whatever they are suggestion
2. Back up Stanleys suggestion
3. “Awfully defensive aren’t you Baron Orion.”
4. “Tell them what you found Ophelia.”
5. *try to sneak out the front door*
6. (write in)

>>3157176
>6. (write in)
We need to talk with the baron privately, to see if this assassination thing is still on.
If it is, we can give a hint to Cassius about a fae being. If not, we can play stupid for the rest of the time.

>>3157176
this >>3157184

>>3157176
Supporting >>3157184

>>3157184
>>3157251
>>3158195
Does Henry wants to kill that woman? Does he wants to help vampires?
If not we should act like thing is off. They fucked up on they side
This isn't part of contract. If baron wants to continue he should approach us
With better fucking offer

>>3157176
>1. Go along with whatever they are suggestion
Lets stay on the side see how things develop

>>3157184
>>3158206
writing

>>3157176
Henry waited till the Inquisitor and the Baron had finished. Stanley had gone and fucked off to the corner after being batted away, and was speaking with a much older gentleman wearing a combination of robes and plate mail. Probably the ‘superior’ the man was talking about. He didn’t seem to say much, more of a listener. Probably smarter than Stanley was.

When they were done, Henry carefully walked up to the Baron and calmy asked to have a word in private.

“Ah, I suppose it’s about … that…” The Baron said.

“Yes.” Henry said simply.

“So is the event still on?” Henry asked.

“Yes, although it seems the date has had to be shifted.” The Baron replied, scanning over the other guests.

“Right, I expect to be compensated for the additional planning required.” Henry said, not missing a beat.

“Of course of course. I know your sponsor has offered you a fair sum, but that doesn’t seem to apply presently. If you can get things back on track, then you’ll be compensated, shall we say.”

“That’s acceptable.” Henry replied. “Are there any other requests?”

“Ah, yes actually, some of the presents for this event were meant to be left… unopened, if the guests open them well… it’ll ruin the surprise. Make sure that the guests don’t harm their visit, and if they do, I’d appreciate if you could help them deal with it..”

“Right.” Henry said. He could haggle it out later.

Ophelia’s expression remained confused during the entire speech. The woman was really smart but also REALLY dumb, Henry thought.

>>3160134
“Would you like me to translate?” Henry asked.

“What event?” Ophelia asked. “Are you helping with a second party?”

“No, we’re talking about… well let’s get away from the others…”

Henry walked with Ophelia back into the dayroom. Outside the sun had almost set, it was a real shame that the Baron couldn’t help them without blowing his own cover, the man seemed to be a bit older than some foolish neonate vampire.

“Alright what did you want to know?” Henry asked.

“What was that about, a party, presents?” Ophelia asked.

Henry glanced back over his shoulder towards the dining hall. His back was turned to it, and when he spoke he’d make sure he was facing away. A man never knew who could read lips.

“First off, the job’s still on, but we’re the ones sticking the knife in the lady.” Henry said. “Seems the pay just went up as well, I imagine the poor ash pile was going to be well compensated, so I’ll probably just get whatever he was getting, maybe a bit extra too.”

“Why’s that?”


“The Baron seemingly has places in this Chateau he doesn’t want guests to get to, also why he was arguing with the inquisitor so much. So if any of the guests wander off and see something they shouldn’t…”

“If they see something they shouldn’t…” Ophelia said.

“Is there a damned echo in here?” Henry asked rhetorically. “Look it’ll get messy, right? So let’s try to avoid that.”

“Why don’t you people just talk normally?” Ophelia asked.

“Never say something direct.” Henry replied.

“That doesn’t make any sense.” Ophelia whinned.

“Maybe I’ll explain it to you one day, don’t worry I’ll use small words.”

Ophelia grimaced but said nothing more.

Decisions:
1. *Follow the rest of the group to the keep*
2. *head off on your own, might as well gather what evidence you can*
3. *head out to the graveyard to collect Johnny, maybe gather a few ‘helpers’ too.*
4. *write in*
5. *cast a spell, preform an action, etc* (write in)

>>3160141
>3. *head out to the graveyard to collect Johnny, maybe gather a few ‘helpers’ too.*
Just johnny for now, don't want to accidentally dig up one of the baron's mistakes.

>>3160141
this >>3160268

>>3160268
>>3160303
writing

>>3160141
Henry followed the others as the Inqusitors took point and began to guide everyone through the halls towards the keep, as the group began to head through the great hall, Henry took the opportunity to escape out through the front door, Ophelia trailing behind him.

“S-shouldn’t we stay with the others?” Ophelia asked.

“No, last thing it’ll expect is for us to break off like this.” Henry said.

“What if they close the front gate?” Ophelia asked.

“We pass Johnny through the bars, have him reopen it.” Henry replied. “Or worse case we get to wait this whole damned thing out without payment at the end of it, but I’d rather risk that then not have an indestructible skeleton on our side.”

“Fair point… but its getting dark… don’t you have a torch?”

“Don’t you have a light spell?” Henry asked.

“Well I can create a small flame from my palm, it’ll probably work, don’t you have a torch?”

“Yeah, but I left it with Johnny.” Henry replied. “Look we need to get a move on, I’d rather not be in this forest after nightfall.”

“R-right.” Ophelia said.

>Roll 3d100

Rolled 65, 13, 25 = 103 (3d100)

>>3160391
>>Roll 3d100
>forest
I forgot we had to go through the forest.

File: a59.jpg (14 KB, 323x326)

14 KB JPG

>>3160399
>13, 25
too late now nibba

>>3160406
I understood that laug-
OH NOES

Rolled 20, 89, 100 = 209 (3d100)

>>3160391
rollan!

File: 9c388682-8333-4b1d-b76a-1(...).jpg (26 KB, 1154x480)

26 KB JPG

>>3160436
>those rolls

>>3160391
As the two Journeyed back down the hillside away from the chateau, Henry took a good look out over the seemingly endless expanse of forest that stretched towards the horizon, in the distance he could see a fire rising up from the signal tower, and what seemed to be a small town much further away. However he needed to get to the cemetery, and he had luckily memorized the route they’d taken, so it wouldn’t be a difficult trek.

They made their way down the hill that the Chateau sat on, Henry made sure to mostly stay out of sight of the guard towers to cloak their escape. Then they moved out through the clear cut section around the chateau, out towards the forests edge.

Ophelia clung closely to him, muttering something about how she didn’t feel safe in the forest, how everything looked and sounded strange to her. He added shut in to the list of flaws the woman suffered from, a list that was slowly becoming expansive. Henry took the time to take out Johnny’s contract and write a few messages on It. The general situation, the plan being in tatters, the new plan, and how they would need Johnny’s help to complete it.

They made good time, winding their way through a dusty dirt trail back towards the cemetery. Henry could see a familiar carriage parked outside the cemetery gate, which was conspicuously left open. That put Henry immediately on edge, Johnny wouldn’t be that careless.

As the two crept through the heavily warded cemetery, Henry noticed a small shack on the furthest edge of the runic wards that protected the dead. There was a small tin chimney with a good bit of smoke coming out of it. Someone was home.

Henry crept up slowly towards the door, he hesitated for a moment. He didn’t really know if he’d be ready for whatever was inside, or if he even needed to worry. Ophelia made the decision for him, throwing caution to the wind and throwing the door open.

A sword was immediately pressed to her throat. Time seemed to stand still as the two of them recognized Johnny.

“Lucky for you, any closer and you might’ve gotten hurt missy.” Johnny said. “In all seriousness are you both alright? Bit of trouble you’ve gotten yourselves into?”
“Aw hell.” A second voice called out from the cabin’s interior. “Guessing the plan’s gone to shit then? Am I needed now or do I wait here?”

“Wait here for now, I guess.” Henry said. “Things aren’t completely sunk. Where’s the owner?”

“Don’t think there is one, this is just a servants shack I believe.” Johnny said. “Me and Dimitri were playing cards to pass the time, nobody’s come home tonight.”

Decision:
1. “Guessing Dimitri is that kid there.”
2. “Look we need to head back to the Chateau, no time to waste.”
3. “Seen anything odd while we were having fun?”
4. *inspect the room* (roll 1d100)
5. (write in)

>>3160517
>1. “Guessing Dimitri is that kid there.”
>5. (write in)
"And Johnny, is it possible for a fae to be here?"

>>3160517
this >>3160521