>>3272379
Henry searched over the desk while dutifully ignoring the voice whispering in his ears. The papers on the desk related to a lot of things, invoices for repair and maintenance work, various issues relating to the surrounding hamlets and villages, upcoming events the Baron was holding, and a report on issues related to the ‘holding cage project’. Henry figured it had something to do with the cage room.

Nothing that would connect the Baron directly to Vermillion. That would’ve been a bit too convenient Henry figured. He either have to find something elsewhere or side with Marlene and hope she wouldn’t fuck him over.

He tried to think about what his next move would be when a soft ethereal voice intruded into his thoughts.

‘free me, wealth and power will be yours’

Fucking hell the asshole wasn’t even original.

“Fine, where are you?” Henry asked, trying his best to not sound annoyed.

‘… behind the painting.’ The voice replied, slightly unnerved by Henry’s response.

Henry turned to a portrait of Baron Orion hanging from the wall. Henry made a note to make sure he got to watch the Baron die. Anyone who kept a painting of themselves like that was a complete and utter asshole in his book.

He flung the painting to the floor unceremoniously and found an alcove in the brick wall containing a simple vase. The vase itself was a stone construction which was adorned with some light ornamentation and some basic runes. Henry realized these were unpowered and that the actual meat of the holding spell was probably located inside of the container itself.

‘Release me…’ the voice said, ‘revenge will be yours…’
Henry grimaced. The demon was probably too weak to get into his head but it could certainly read his emotions and perhaps the surface level of his soul. As long as he kept the thing in its cage it was harmless… however, owning such a thing was HIGHLY illegal, all he’d have to do was get the inquisitors involved and the Baron would be in some VERY hot water.

Decisions:
1. *flip the vase off*
2. “I’m not dumb enough to let you out you varmint.”
3. “You really thought I’d be dumb enough to listen to you?”
4. (write in)

>>3272382
Henry was honestly pretty tired. His leg ached from the shrapnel wound and his head was pounding from the Demon’s feeble attempts to influence him. He wanted to sit down with some brandy or something and just drink himself into a stupor. But no, he couldn’t quite rest right now because he didn’t have jack fucking shit to connect the baron back to Vermillion.

“Wow, I should be insulted.” Henry said. “But I really don’t care, I don’t give two shit’s.” Henry said to the vase.

Henry thought he heard the demon guffaw in shock, which gave him little comfort.

“I don’t want revenge, and I’m pretty sure if you helped me get revenge your ass would be thrown into the deepest reaches of the pit.” Henry said. “It was too much to think you could’ve offered me anything useful, even just something like information about the Baron, so I didn’t bother asking.”

“…”

“You can just stay quiet if you don’t have anything useful to say you overgrown piece of shit.”

“Who are you talking to?” Johnny asked after wandering into the room.

“Demonic vessel, the pot that was behind that painting.” Henry said, pointing at the thing.

“Ah… shall I leave you to it?” Johnny asked.

“Help me toss this room, there has to be something we can use.” Henry said.

“Who are you?” The voice asked. “You have such tolerance for my intrusions, yet you’re not a host to another… hrm.”

>>3272388
“None of your fuckin business.” Henry replied. “I don’t make deals with liars or demons. It’s in your nature to stab me in the back.”

“Worth a try I suppose.” The voice replied. “Honestly I wasn’t really thinking it would work, but you have to give it a try. Never hurts to try, well, that’s not really true.”

Henry refused to dignify that with a response. He hated it when demons tried to act human.

“You are marked by someone though… I wonder who? The aether reminds me of someone…hrm…”

“Nothing personal against you, but you’re probably going to be locked away for a very long time once you’re done being used as evidence against the vampiric piece of shit in charge.” Henry said.

“Oh, the soulless ones? I felt two of those husks waste away just now, I’m a bit surprised you managed to do so, although it was probably that cheap imitation of a person.” The voice said.

Of course he could tell Johnny wasn’t living. It really wouldn’t matter though, Johnny wouldn’t be sticking around for the ‘big reveal’, he’d be out getting angelic support.

“I wonder, do you know who the fey creature is that I felt lurking around, are you working for it?”

“There’s a fey?” Henry asked, lying.

“Hrm, a creature of the blue green. An ally… no… not quite… not an enemy, perhaps someone to use and be used by.” The demon said. “Our hatred of the white is mutual…. Yet for different reasons.”

“Stop rambling.” Henry said.

“It’s been far too long since I had anyone to talk to, and it’s clear you won’t be accepting any offers… and you lack the ability to block me out… so…” The demon said.

“I can if I want to.” Henry replied.

The was the whole fucking reason he learned how to close his mind off, to avoid things trying to place thoughts there.

“Hrm, does it have a name?” Johnny asked. “Perhaps I know who it is.”

“Don’t know, don’t care.” Henry replied.

“How long have you been here?” Henry asked.

“I’ve been down here the duration of my stay at this construction of stone and hardened clay. Daylight I’ve not seen besides the vision in my dreams.” The demon said. Its voice was far less harsh then what Henry was used to from the demons in Abraxas’ court, and it really pissed him off.

“If I could kill you I would.” Henry said.

“The best you could do is send me to the pit… and I’d find my way out in due time, and return the favor, probably, maybe, if you were still alive when I returned.” The demon replied. “I’ve been there many times before, the pain becomes something you live with… I think you understand that much. If you do me a favor… well, I’ll reveal where the Baron keeps his documents, things you can use…”

Decisions:
1. “Fuck right off.”
2. “What is the deal?”
3. “Do I look stupid?”
4. “Johnny I need you to restrain me before I try strangling a pot.”
5.(write in)

>>3272391
>so a couple notes, first off the spell and equipment list links should actually fucking work now, thanks for never telling me all this time everyone.
> I also hope I did that long winded vote from the last thread justice.

>>3272391
>“What is the deal?”
>"Yeah okay, you got a name? I can't call you 'idiot scum' the whole time. Oh wait, yes I can."
Just get info from the fucker. We can simply agree to the deal and get the info, then promptly say 'fuck you' and leave him there for Inquisition.
>inb4 any deal is binding with a demon, because fuck you am I right?

>>3272391
>4. “Johnny I need you to restrain me before I try strangling a pot.”
>>3272486
>>"Yeah okay, you got a name? I can't call you 'idiot scum' the whole time. Oh wait, yes I can."
I like this too

How the fuck is this quest still going on? Why are you so stubborn with QM? What drives you? Why do you want to see this quest till the end so desperately? Would you still continue the quest alone like the first thread if people stopped replying one day? I have so many questions.

>>3273611
I WILL NEVER STOP REPLYING
REEEEEE

>>3272486
>>3272587
writing
>>3273611
because I'm having fun

>>3272391
“Johnny I need you to restrain me before I try strangling a pot.” Henry said.

Johnny suddenly looked uncomfortable. He glanced from Henry to the pot a couple of times, and then moved to subdue Henry.

“I WASN’T BEING SERIOUS DAMN IT.” Henry yelled, sidestepping Johnny’s halfhearted efforts.

“I’m not entirely convinced.” Johnny replied. “I know how you get sometimes.”

Had that been a joke?

“You, pot, do you have a name? I can’t call you asshole every time I want to talk to you.

“Finally you figured asking… its –“

“I’m going to keep calling you asshole.”

“I really do hope someone lets me out of here so I can tear your throat out with whatever pair of hands I’m given. I believe I’d enjoy it, though I’ve forgotten what enjoyment feels like now.” The voice said.

“So what would the deal even be then?” Henry asked.

“Honestly I just want out of this stupid vessel, to the point I would’ve even considered giving you some information on that insufferable soulless cesspit. But now? I think I’ll let you stew around in the mess you’ve created. I’m just sad I won’t see you drained of blood, fortunately I have a VIVID imagination.

“Yeah alright.” Henry said.

“Oh I suppose I should’ve mentioned there is another soul in the room.” The demon said. “I guess it escaped your notice.”

“There is no living creature in this room besides us.” Henry replied.

It wasn’t really TRUE, but Johnny was family damn it.

“On the ceiling.” The voice said, bemused.

Henry glared at the pot, “Are you fucking serious.”

“Oh… you think it’s a joke? That I’m pulling those walky bits you have? No, on the ceiling fleshbag. There is a smaller fleshbag.”

“Johnny is there anything on the ceiling.” Henry said, trying his best to sound calm.

“Why would there be… oh… there seems to be a spider up there.” Johnny replied.

“How big?”

“The size of your head.” Johnny replied, readying his sword.

Henry swung around, he could hear the demon giggling and saying ‘made you look’ a couple of times.

Asshole.

On the ceiling was a very particular looking spider, different from the ones that were native to this area. It was brightly colored, much stouter and plump in body.

It was the same spider the Inquisitor had with him earlier.

The spider stiffened up and began to slowly creep away in terror.

Decisions:
1. Knock over the fucking vase, you know for a fact it won’t break, and it won’t hurt the demon inside, but fuck that asshole
2. “Hello again.”
3. “Wait the fuck?”
4. “How long have you been up there you little shit.”
5. *throw your dagger at the spider*
6. *try to catch the thing*
7. *try to use a spell*
8. (Write in)

>>3275277
>8. (Write in)
Hey spider, there's a demon in this jar. Go retrieve your master.

>>3275277
this >>3275283

>>3275320
>>3275283
writing

>>3275277
Hey spider, there’s a demon in this jar, go retrieve your master.” Henry said.

The spider fell from its perch, bounced off a table, and landed upside down on the floor. The panic the creature exhibited was evident and quite odd given how deadly it had looked at first. The thing quickly sped out of the room and back down the hallway, scrambling to get away.

“So the demon said the thing had a soul in it.”

“Shouldn’t be possible.” Johnny replied. “Animals can’t contain human souls, they’re not built for it.”

“He never said it was a human soul.” Henry replied.

“It’s a human soul.” The demon said. “This is the most fun I’ve had in centuries.”

“Fuck you.” Henry replied.

“And fuck you right back human.” The demon replied.

“Freeze!” Marcus said, quickly entering the room with his crossbow drawn.

The man looked to be in surprisingly good shape, given the fact he was covered in spider blood and didn’t seem to be tired from all the fighting.

“Oy calm down Marcus.” Cassius said, striding into the room calmly.

“They’re near a demonic vessel Cassius.” Marcus said. “Idiot get your weapons out.”

Cassius looked sheepishly at Henry before complying. “Nothing personal mate, just step away from the fancy vase.”

Henry complied, he didn’t even bother asking them to ask nicely first.

Marcus slowly made his way towards the vase before wrapping a holy eye around it with a piece of sliver chain.

“Come on…” The voice said. before quickly fading off.

“That should do it, assuming you haven’t made a connection to it.” Marcus said. “How did you find this place?”

Decisions:
1. “How did you?”
2. “Can you tell him to lay off Cassius?”
3. “Fuck off.”
4. “Thank you for getting that whiny asshole out of my head.”
5. (write in)

>>3275347
>5. (write in)
Lookin for a reason why a fae would fuck this place up, found this instead.
As soon as we get rid of what's pissin off the fae, the more likely it'll run off.
Also, there were more vampires.

>>3275347
this >>3275354

>>3275354
>>3275365
writing

>>3275354
Sorta odd how there're so many vampires about, no?

>>3275347
“Looking for a reason why a fae creature would bother coming to this place and kill a bunch of people. Found this instead.” Henry said. “I figured we could just remove whatever was pissing the fae off and it’d likely just run off.”


“I don’t think you realize the situation you’ve placed yourself in.” Marcus said. “You’ve potentially just ruined this entire operation.”


“Marcus the operation went out the window when the fucking Fae attacked, and its still out there and has an army of spiders outside the gates!”


“We’ve already determined it isn’t directly controlling them all, like I said before.” Marcus replied. “Look search the room out for anything we can use here.”


“The fuck are you on about?” Henry asked.


“Can’t tell you I’m afraid, in fact I’ve half a mind to bring you two in once we have this all settled, I don’t give two shits about what Cassius might think.”


“Oy!” Cassius said.


“Can it newbie.” Marcus said, jokingly.


Decisions:
1. “Is the vessel enough to bring the Baron down?”
2. “We were also going to try to signal for angelic support.”
3. “How the hell did you even get down here?”
4. (write in)

>>3275384
>1. “Is the vessel enough to bring the Baron down?”
"... Are you even after the baron?"

>>3275392
Doesn't matter what yall're lookin for if we die to a fae or spider. So, want to pay me to help? Always on the look out for a better paying job.

>>3275384
this >>3275392 and

>>3275384
AND >>3275408, FUCK

>>3275436
goodnight, I'll be back tomorrow.

Rolled 88 (1d100)

>>3275458

>>3275453
rolling for something funny

Rolled 49 (1d100)

>>3275464
actually rolling now

Rolled 44 (1d100)

>>3275458
>>3275470
>>3275464

>>3275474
>>3275462
well those are some interesting rolls

>>3275392
>>3275408
>>3275434
>>3275436
>>3275462
>>3275470
>>3275474
writing

>>3275384
“Is the demonic vessel enough to bring the baron down?” Henry asked.

Marcus glared at Henry for a moment before sighing.

“Guess it’s fairly obvious given the ash piles you made.” Marcus said. “But yes, it’ll give us full authority to bring the bastard in, but I don’t think we’ll be taking him alive, he knows he’ll be thrown up onto the dawn wall in Celeste if we do. What I want to know is why the hell are the two of you in here, and what the hell happened to the wall?”

“Well uhm… we uh…” Henry said.

“You’re seriously questioning our motives when we’ve slain a couple of vampires?” Johnny asked. “If we were working for the Baron we would lured you in here and slayed you.”

“And if you’re working for someone else?” Marcus asked.

“Doesn’t stop you from doing your job.” Henry said.

“Fine, fuck it I don’t have the time to get into this right now, but I will be having a nice little conversation with you when things are settled.” Marcus said.

“They’re trustworthy Marcus, I told you!” Cassius said. “Man put his life on the line before, I know for a fact.”

“I know for a fact that you need to get back to work Cassius.” Marcus said.

“Will the two of you be enough to take on his guards?” Johnny asked.

“Do you seriously think they’d stand up to a pair of inquisitors?” Cassius asked, bemused.

“It’s a risk, don’t have much of a choice. I’m sure as hell not letting him slip through our fingers. He was at LEAST harboring vampires assuming he isn’t one himself, then there’s the vessel. He’s either leaving this chateau in chains or not at all.” Marcus said.

“I don’t suppose you’d have anything you’d need me to do.” Henry said.

“Do you always have your hand out for coin?” Cassius asked. “Not that I wouldn’t mind having the support of a competent fighter.”

“Actually we do, we were considering calling for angelic support.” Marcus said, glaring at Cassius. “The way is blocked and I don’t really like our odds.”

“But that-“ Cassius said.

“But that’s a perfect job for them.” Marcus continued. “I’m not letting someone I don’t know and can’t trust get anywhere near the Baron and his men, and I don’t really feel like leaving my back open because the newly minted inquisitor thinks he can TRUST them.”

Cassius looked at the ground for a moment before glancing silently at Henry. The man wanted to say something but was obviously not allowed to.

“You’re Henry right?” Marcus asked. “You’ve scared my ‘pet’ to the point she won’t stop clinging to my back, so you’re obviously not a weakling and you seem to have a decent head on your shoulders. If you can make it to the signal tower and rally support then I’d be willing to slip you some silver, maybe a gold coin.”

“Please Marcus, let me do it!” Cassius said. “He won’t make it past the-“

>>3278233

“QUIET.” Marcus said. “They wanted to help, so I’m gonna let them help, but the mission comes first.”

“Fine.” Cassius said, annoyed.

“So why were you even here?” Marcus asked.

“Guarding one of the guests.” Henry replied. “We got hired short notice, don’t really know the lady too well.”

“Lady?” Marcus asked.

“I don’t remember her name off hand, think it started with an R or something?” Henry said, avoiding giving away who he was associated with.

“Feh, always up for coin but can’t keep track of whose paying you?” Marcus said. He said something else under his breath but Henry couldn’t quite make it out.

“Well will you take the offer or not?” Marcus asked. “Cause I don’t really have time to waffle about.”

Decisions:
1. “I’ll take the job”
2. “I can’t believe I’m saying this but I don’t want your coin.”
3. “I want to help you take down the baron, I fecking HATE vampires.”
4. (Write in)

>>3278235
>1. “I’ll take the job”
And sorry about scaring the spider. I know good help is hard to find

>>3278235
this >>3278240 but also
>Look at Cassius. "What did you mean 'he won't get past the whatever?' Is there something unsavoury near the tower that I wasn't told about?"

>>3278241
>>3278240
writing

>>3278235
Henry looked over at Cassius for a moment.

“What did you mean he won’t get past the whatever? Is there something unsavory I should know about?”

“Bunch of brown-back spiders.” Cassius said. “I think the Fey’s riled them up and lured em to the castle. We’re surrounded right now. Look, you’re not gonna make it past them, even if you had armor on they’d just pile onto you and tear you apart.” Cassius said.

“Are they poisonous?” Henry asked.

“That isn’t the point! You go out there you’re going to die, you aren’t stealthy and they’ll smell you out immediately!”

“I’ll do it.” Henry said, glancing over at Marcus. “But I expect two gold for the work.”

“Fuck, fine.” Marcus said. “But I’m only paying you if you can get the flare off. Do that and I’ll drop my questions about why you were down here, fair?”

Cassius grit his teeth and walked away, he was at the end of his patience.

Decisions:
1. *talk to someone* (write in)
2. *preform an action* (write in)
3. Head out to the signal tower, it’s time to go with Marlene’s plan.
4. “Don’t get killed alright?”
5. (Write in)

>>3278327
>4. “Don’t get killed alright?”
>5. (Write in)
Won't get paid if my backers die.

>>3278327
this >>3278335

>>3278335
>>3278372
writing

>>3278327
“Don’t get killed alright?” Henry asked.

“Come on man I’m not gonna get killed by a single bloodsucker.” Cassius said.

“Good, if you died I wouldn’t get paid.”

The two of them laughed for a moment while Marcus and Johnny shared a look of mutual disdain. The two had reprobates as charges.

As Henry strode out of the secret corridor he noticed that the rows of iron rods leading into the armory had been dropped into the floor. He assumed that was where the Inqusitors had come from. The armory might contain some useful goodies, but to be honest he really didn’t want to be spending too much more time in this hellhole. Surrounded by spiders and skittering feet.

Decisions:
1. Head out towards the tower
2. Head into the armory
3. Try to get back to Marlene and see if she can remove or reduce the spiders (will harm your cover)
4. (write in)

>>3278598
>4. (write in)
On our way to the tower, stop by Marlene and let her know we're gonna try to call angel help.
Hopefully out of earshot of the baron, or eyeshot.

>>3278610
FUCK TELLING THE FAE BITCH, NIGGA

>>3278598
>2. Head into the armory
if what Marcus said is true, which it is, then we need to fucking arm up with something good
this is a valid emergency

>>3278617
Damn, I thought we were gonna switch over to her as our patron.
But on second thought, the more weapons the better.

>>3278619
Also, fuck working for a fae. Her promises are all lies. Vermillion wants excitement, the sucker's gonna get it!

>>3278617
>>3278610
>>3278619
>>3278623
writing

>>3278598
Henry and Johnny rushed into the armory. Johnny seemed rather excited as he browsed the various weapons and runes neatly lined up in a row. There were a good amount of bomb runes present, as well as vats for oil burning, spears, swords, and other sorts of equipment. There were even a couple of flame casters which seemed to be missing heat runes…

Johnny grabbed out a couple of spears and began to whistle a tune. The old skeleton was always cheery when large amounts of weaponry were involved.

“So the boar spears here should be able to best get in between the cracks in the spider’s carapace.” Johnny said. “But we’d only be able to attack one at a time, at best, I don’t think we’ll be able to do much more than try and ward them off.”

“The militiamen didn’t have much luck with sword.” Henry agreed.

“They have some gambeson’s we could use.” Johnny said, excitedly. “I’ve wanted to get some of these for a long time now.”

“What?” Henry asked.

“Cloth armor?” Johnny replied. “It’s even studded for durability.”

“Oh, right.” Henry replied.

This would do nicely. In the cool evening air he wouldn’t have to worry about overheating either.

(+1 spear and 1 gambeson, armor level increased)

Decisions:
1. Grab some bomb runes
2. Try to see if you can get the flamecasters working (roll 1d100, -2 flame runes per caster)
3. *pick up some other equipment* (write in, depending on selection a roll may be required, difficulty based on rarity and power)
4. (write in)

>>3278668
>1. Grab some bomb runes
3. *pick up some other equipment* (write in, depending on selection a roll may be required, difficulty based on rarity and power)
Hopefully a better steel sword possible enchanted, and some daggers, maybe a ceremonial one for Charles.

>>3278668
this >>3278693
but remember the flamecasters for later when Ophelia wakes up

>>3278693
no roll for the daggers.

Roll 1d100 for the steel sword

roll 1d100 for the dagger as well

Rolled 70, 56 = 126 (2d100)

>>3278711

>>3278711
the ceremonial dagger is the second roll

Rolled 43, 73 = 116 (2d100)

>>3278711

>>3278716
>>3278723
two passes

>>3278668
Henry pulled out a couple of daggers, a steel sword, and a nice dagger with some fancy emblems on the side. From what Johnny said the steel quality was far better in the sword he had found then the one he currently owned, so he simply swapped them out. The less weight and clinking metal there was the better. Henry grabbed up the boar spear and a couple of daggers as well. He put on the gambeson then placed the daggers into his throwing knife hostlers and that was that.

As a sort of afterthought he grabbed up a couple of bomb runes and inspected the flamecasters. The things were far heavier and clunkier than the one Ophelia had shown him back in Grutzberg, which was interesting. They were probably a good deal more stable than the on Ophelia had made. Just the thought of that abomination of a wand she had sent shivers up Henry’s spine

(+2 iron daggers, steel sword upgraded, +1 ceremonial dagger)

Henry smiled at the fancy dagger, at this rate Charles was going to get a collection of the things.

Decisions:
1. *head out* (you will not be able to return from this point)
2. *preform further actions* (optional)(write in)

>>3278842
>1. *head out* (you will not be able to return from this point)
Unless we want to warn anybody, we should head out. We might also want johnny to run off during this trip to the tower, so he doesn't get questioned too closely by the inquisitors when we return.

>>3278842
this >>3281437

>>3281454
>>3281437
writing

>>3278842
“Alright Johnny, do you understand the plan?” Henry asked, sizing up his newly acquired spear.

“Yes sir, I believe so. We’ll make our way over the wall using the rope we tied earlier, get through the horde of spiders, and then make our way to the signal tower to try and get a message off.”

“Oy!” Cassius said, running up to meet them.

“We forgot to give you the flare!”

“Aw, right.” Henry said, calmly pocketing the backup flare.

This fucking thing was worth more than gold in some places. Being able to call in angels, that was a power reserved for very few people, and now he had a spare…

“Stay safe you fucker!” Cassius said, before running back down the hallway.

“You know I think I like that bastard.” Henry said.

“Shall we?” Johnny asked.

(+ angelic flare rune)


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

Henry nervously gripped his spear with both of his hands, he was staring down into the darkness below. He could hear movement from the clear-cut section, and they had noticed several spiders on the wall itself. Fortunately the things couldn’t see very well, and mainly relied on sound and body heat to track their prey. Henry slowly climbed down the wall and joined up with Johnny.

Both of them had their spears at the ready, and truth be told Henry would leave the thing in some spider immediately. He didn’t want to bother going for the kill when there could easily be dozens of the things.

The two journeyed their way down the hillside, Henry could see a few of them scaling the wall while they walked.

>roll 1d100

Rolled 41 (1d100)

>>3281516

Rolled 12 (1d100)

>>3281516

>>3281521
pass, writing

The two continued their way down the hillside and into the valley, Henry stopped for a moment to take in what he was seeing. There had to have been two hundred spiders, and that was just what was in his view. Every spider in the local forest must have been called here at once.

How strong was Marlene, who the fuck was he dealing with here?

If she was this strong… she would likely be more than a match for Vermillion… hell she was probably strong enough to take an angel down, though certainly not a whole flight of them.

Johnny slapped him on the side of the head and pointed toward the relative safety of the forest. At the very least it would make them harder to spot, if more prone to ambush.

>roll 1d100

Rolled 94 (1d100)

>>3281562
oh boy

>>3281573
welp

>>3281562
Henry and Johnny made their way to the forest without any difficulties, any of the spiders that took notice of them quickly turned away. Marlene was helping them it seemed. He wouldn’t be rid of her tonight, at least that’s the way it seemed given how things had been going.

Henry smeared mud and leaves onto his clothing with Johnny’s help, both masking his scent and the amount of heat he would give off. It was cold and uncomfortable but it was a small price to pay for greater safety. The two continued down the road past the graveyard and over a couple of bridges without further incident. In fact it just made Henry even more nervous, nothing was supposed to go this well.

As they approached the signal tower it became apparent that it had been overrun. There were a couple of human guard corpses smeared on the ground and the tower’s roof was partially caved in. There was a small barracks connected to the structure with a small wood and stone palisade surrounding the thing. It had proved ineffective against the hoard of spiders, and from what Henry could tell the guards had been caught unaware, the doors to the gate were left swinging in the wind.

As they cautiously made their way inside Henry could see a spectral form of a ghiest walking around disoriented, and inside the barracks Henry could see light and movement.

Decisions:
1. Ignore the barracks for now, you have a mission
2. *Try to get a better look at the barracks* (roll 1d100)
3. *have a look at the corpses* (roll 1d100)
4. Head back out, fuck this noise
5. (Write in)

>>3281653
night ya'll
>for clarity you're inside the wall of the signal tower compound but not inside either of the buildings.

>>3281653
>no votes

>>3281653
>cast Raise Dead on 4 of the corpses nearby (the ones still with weapons), but command them to stay on the ground and not move
>stealth over to signal tower, moving raised corpses along with us, but occasionally commanding them to drop and play dead (ha)
>if we can get to the signal tower and head up it, we can leave them there to guard behind us for the enemy
>if the thing that killed all the guards is an ally of ours, somehow, then we can simply remove the black mana from the corpses and leave them dead
OK plan???

>>3284333

>>3281653
“Hey Johnny, you get the feeling this is a giant ambush?” Henry whispered. “We send the flare off and then we get eaten by spiders.”

“I wouldn’t put it past the creature.” Johnny replied. “I suppose you want to use those corpses?”

“Well those two are completely mashed but I see a few others further in, we can use those as guards and just have them stay down. Nobody’ll know they’re undead.” Henry said. “Assuming we get visitors…”

Henry watched as the form inside the barracks seemed to shift in the candle light, its outline changing as if it had just shed off a piece of itself.

“I don’t really fancy going in there.” Henry said.

“The flare shouldn’t make much noise, assuming they’re still made the same way.” Johnny whispered.

Henry cast raise dead on three of the guard corpses and a relatively preserved spider corpse, animating them. He whispered into each zombie’s ear to crawl over to the signal tower’s entrance and remain there. He would’ve loved to tell them to do it completely silently, but he had to settle for mostly. The things didn’t make much noise thankfully. Afterwards he ordered them to attack anything that got too close, he’d just have to release them before any angels arrived.

He glanced once more into the barracks and was relieved to see that whatever was in there hadn’t moved. In fact it wasn’t really making much noise. That was probably good.

“Come on Johnny.” Henry said, slowly making his way up the signal tower and wincing whenever there was a creaking noise.

Johnny nodded and followed him upstairs. Neither of them noticed as the door to the barracks swung open.
Henry got to the top of the tower and noticed a sort of living space. There were a few cots and some books scattered about, not much but it made the place feel a bit cozier. There were a couple of balconies that gave Henry a good look at the surrounding countryside. He could make out a couple of lights at the mill, hopefully they had more luck than these poor bastards.

Decisions:
1. “Johnny head back down and hold position near the middle, just in case.”
2. *fire one angelic flare off*
3. *fire both angelic flares off*
4. *try to gaze into the darkness to see anything* (roll 1d100)
5. (write in)

>>3284412
>4. *try to gaze into the darkness to see anything* (roll 1d100)
>5. (write in)
Once the flare goes off, you might want to make yourself scarce, johnny.

Rolled 33 (1d100)

>>3284426

Rolled 46 (1d100)

>>3284426
this

>>3284442
>>3284452
>>3284426
writing
> :)

File: 1489944199606.png (540 KB, 650x550)

540 KB PNG

>>3284453
:^)

>>3284412
(-2 black mana from using raise dead 4 times)
>get off my back

Henry took a look into the darkness, but couldn’t see too much. All he could see was a shape milling about near the entrance; it walked out a couple of steps before rushing back inside. He wondered if it was Marlene’s doing, perhaps the woman was actually going to use the creature to protect him. Ha, no it was probably going to attack him the second the flare went off. Fine, at least he was ready for it, the thing would get a nasty surprise when it assaulted the tower…

Well nothing for it, he had no way out now.

“Johnny.” Henry said, whispering as loudly as he dared. “Make yourself scarce when shit kicks off, head to the cemetery or back to Celeste, I leave the choice to you, but get out of the way of any angels.”

“Of course sir, can’t have you getting caught up in this jolly bloodshed about to take place.”

Henry grit his teeth and grabbed for one of the flare runes that he’d managed to get from the Chateau. The thing was very odd for a rune, more like the trigger mechanism for a crossbow if anything. Henry had never actually used anything like this before, but he was a smart enough man to guess.

He held it out like he would a crossbow, aimed toward the sky, and willed it to fire off. A

A bolt made of extremely concentrated white mana streaked brilliantly through the sky before exploding in an almost cloud like form. The mana pulled together, then formed all sorts of mosaic patterns Henry couldn’t comprehend, let alone understand. He glanced back towards the ground and saw something that gave him pause.

In the light the rune had released, he could see the surrounding area clearly now. The creature hadn’t been a creature at all.

It was a human woman, wearing peasants clothing. Where the hell had she come from? The mill?

Henry glanced back over and suddenly realized why he’d been able to see it so well. The mill was engulfed in flames. He glanced back down and saw the woman was no longer near the gate. The hell?

FUCK

She was moving towards the zombies. She thought they were there to help.

FUCK

Decisions:
1. “DON’T ATTACK!” (has a medium chance of blowing cover)
2. *try to rush down and stop her before she triggers a response*
3. (write in)
4. *cast a spell* (write in)

>>3284487
>4. *cast a spell* (write in)
Release the zombies, as in, deanimate them.
Then go and see what the hell happened.

>>3284487
This >>3284529

>>3284556
>>3284529
I was hoping you boys would panic but it seems I underestimated you, good work

File: download.jpg (14 KB, 231x218)

14 KB JPG

>>3284487
Without a second thought Henry released the corpses from the animating spell, scattering the black mana contained within them to the winds.

Johnny got down with his sword drawn several seconds later. He realized what Henry had done and quickly sheathed his sword to avoid panicking the woman.

“Please sir, my husband and my eldest are back at the mill!” The woman said. “Save them please!”

“I’m afraid we aren’t guards ma’am.” Johnny said, trying to put the woman’s at ease. “Are you here by yourself?”

Henry met up with them and listened as Johnny talked with the woman.


“No I brought my youngest, he’s only six… I don’t know what happened to the others!”

“The mill caught fire.” Henry whispered to Johnny.

“That doesn’t mean a thing.” Johnny replied, remaining hopeful.

Actually, this was a perfect opportunity…

“Uh.” The woman said, noticing the costume Henry was wearing.

“It’s a long story, I don’t want to talk about it right now.”


Decisions:
1. “Johnny, help this woman, I can report back to the castle myself once reinforcements arrive”
2. “Come on lets go help her, I can survey the aftermath when this is all finished.”
3. “You go help this woman, I’ll wait here until we get angelic support, we’re only leaving Ophelia behind after all.”
4. (write in)

>>3284600
>1. “Johnny, help this woman, I can report back to the castle myself once reinforcements arrive”
Whisper to johnny, best for you to not be here when the angels get here.

>>3284600
this >>3284610

>>3284637
>>3284610
writing

>>3284600
“Johnny, help this woman, I can report back to the castle myself once reinforcements arrive.” Henry said. “Stay safe, ride this out till dawn, don’t worry about me okay?” Henry said, waving the man off as he rushed back towards the mill on his own, that just left Henry, the woman, and apparently one of her children.

Henry made his way up to the tower once more, he wanted to see the show. There was a single raven up there, sizing him up. He made a motion to toss a dagger at it and the thing scattered. He took his owl mask off and tossed it to the ground before sitting down on a blood stained chair. He was tired of all of this bullshit.

‘One life for another, is that how you live?’

Henry felt nothing but hatred, but he didn’t know why.

‘Tilted a balance that hardly matters, to give yourself a looser noose, yet still a nose.’ Said nobody.

“Shut up.” Henry replied. But he was talking to himself.

‘Oh Henry, did you ever think you’d be left alone? You poor pathetic child.’

Henry glanced out towards the rising moon, and saw several shimmering shapes approaching rapidly. Help had arrived.

Henry didn’t bother looking for nobody, as nothing was there. He took his chair and launched it out over the side of the tower, watching it shatter below. He wanted to break something. He’d probably just destroyed any chance of a decent life he had left, for what? Revenge? To get out from under Vermillions thumb? He was just changing master’s wasn’t he?

No, he needed to rule himself.

He glanced over his shoulder, but the shadows were normal.

He thought he could hear faint laughter.


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

By the time the angel had touched down into the guard tower, the furniture inside and much of the flooring had been reduced to splinters.

The angel could tell the man inside was an odd one, wrapped up in his hatred. Yet… she recognized his face, from somewhere, not too long ago.

“I see you’ve managed to get you’re relative’s remains to New Haven safely.” The angel said, its mouth open but unmoving. Its eyes glowing white.

Decision:
1. “The Chateau.”
2. “Leave me be, the threat is further up the hill.”
3. *Cast a spell*
4. “Thank you.”
5. (write in)

>>3284677
>5. (write in)
"Thanks for that. The inquisitors were a little busy, so they sent me here to light the flare."
"Apparently there's vampires."

>>3284677
This >>3284690

>>3284690
>>3284692
writing

>>3284677
“Thanks for that.” Henry said, doing his best to sound grateful. “The inquisitors were a little busy, so they sent me here to light the flare in their stead. Apparently there are vampires.”


The angel stood there silently, as if appraising what he’d said.


Henry wondered if she was going to ask him more stupid questions. Like everyone had been tonight.


“Understood, I assume the fountainhead is the baron?” The angel asked.


“Yes, he seems to be the leader from what I’ve been told.”


“Why do you smell of demonic taint?” The angel asked, gripping her sword cautiously.


“There was a demonic vessel, sealed in a vase of some sort. The inquisitor’s took care of it before any harm befell me.”


“I understand why they sent you here now; anyone who could resist corruption is a useful tool for the common good. If you have nothing more to say I shall take my leave and bring the others to the large home.”


Decision:
1. “And you decide that I take it.”
2. “Fine.”
3. “Thank you for the help
4. (write in)

>>3284731
>3. “Thank you for the help

>>3284731
goodnight

>>3284731
this >>3284746

>>3284731

>>3284746
Supporting

>>3284746
>>3285287
>>3285965

>>3284731
“Thank you for the help.” Henry said.

The angel nodded warily, took a running leap off the side of the tower, then took off into the air. Henry watched as lances of white mana began to rain down onto the horde of spiders gathered around the Chateau. The things scattered after the first few bolts were dropped down on them. The angels began to circle to the Chateau, raining even more bolts of white mana down into the structure, probably to kill any stragglers remaining.

Henry lost sight of them after that. He realized he’d been slumped up against the wall of the structure, so he got up and made his way downstairs. He felt like shit for some reason, he didn’t quite know why. But this whole fucking thing had been a massive mistake. He couldn’t run either and pretend he died, he’d left his idiot back at the chateau keep. The woman would be fine, probably, but the fact she’d been so fucking stupid annoyed the everloving fuck out of him.

How could anyone be that dumb?!

Henry began the long trek back to the chateau…


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

For whatever reason, Henry had foolishly expected that the angels, who were able to fly, would’ve gone to the trouble of blasting open the front gate. So he had to get his grappling hook… which he’d left on top of the fucking wall near the gate house. FUCK.

It took about forty five minutes before he was thrown a rope by an amused looking Cassius. The man was alive so the angels had won, like there was any doubt they would.

Decisions:
1. “Not a fucking word.”
2. “Is my friend okay in there? She was an unconscious woman.”
3. “Did anyone important die?”
4. “Things under control I take it?”
5. (write in)

>>3287311
>5. (write in)
Fuck masquerade parties.

>>3287311
This >>3287320 but also "Never ever again. Anyone agree?"

>>3287334
>>3287320
writing

>>3287311
Cassius began to giggle incessantly before grimacing in an attempt to stop his laughter.

“All this time?” He asked.

“Fuck masquerade parties.” Henry replied. He grabbed the rope firmly and pulled himself up without much trouble.

He resisted the urge to slug Cassius in the face, and took a good look around at the chateau. The damage… was far less than he’d expected. The angels were good at avoiding collateral damage he gave them that.

“Well it’s been fun and games in the meantime. Baron had a bunch of nasty little secrets hidden in there.” Cassius said.

“Oh?” Henry asked.

“The armor was animated with spirits.” Cassius said, “And the fucker kept a god damned mimic in the basement. Took two angels to slay the bastard. As for the Baron, he didn’t go down without a fight, one of the angels was injured, though I don’t believe it was severely. ”

“Exciting.” Henry replied.

“Well the ‘real’ excitement’s about to start.” Cassius said with sarcastic flair. “Apparently the Baron’s family were still living, I tried arguing to uh… well. Its just a shame for the kids you know.”

“What?” Henry asked.

“Look I can’t really tell you.” Cassius said. “Enough of that, I think we could sneak into the wine cellar for a few celebratory drinks if you want. Heh, kinda a shame I didn’t get to kill the bastard myself though.”
“You tend to live longer if you get far stronger people to fight vampires for you.” Henry replied.

“It’s my job.” Cassius snarked.

Decisions:
1. “Cassius, what the fuck is going on?”
2. “As long as the Baron’s dead I’m happy.”
3. “Was he acting alone in this?”
4. “great”
5. “Is my companion safe?”
6. (Write in)

>>3287390
>“Cassius, what the fuck is going on?”
>“Is my companion safe?”
Does Cassius know about the fae bitch being somewhere?

>>3287428
roll 1d100 for the first question

Rolled 83 (1d100)

>>3287446

>>3287390
“Cassius is my companion safe?” Henry asked.

“Who?” Cassius asked. “Didn’t realize you picked up a friend… you didn’t bring Charles did you?!”

“No, a woman with a lightly scarred face.”

“Oh the lady with the burn mark? I figured she somehow got that during the festivities or something.” Cassius said.

“Well is she alive?”

“Yeah she’s fine, the militia people said she got attacked by some spiders and is lucky to be alive. It’s a nice story but the injuries don’t match at all, it’s almost like she got choked.”

“Yeah…” Henry said. “Look, Cassius, bud, what’s going on?”

“I said I can’t tell you…” Cassius said, the man looked guilty as hell.

“So I guess that’s all I’m worth then.” Henry said.

“Fuck.” Cassius muttered. “Look I like you Henry, so does Marcus, even if he acts like an asshole at times.”

“Still not telling then?” Henry asked.

“I’m just saying you can’t share this with anyone… the inquisition is probably going to perform a private execution after torturing them, we need to get all the information we can get from this, Marcus says this whole thing is big, bigger than just the Baron…. That’s all I can say.” Cassius said. “I’d try to avoid letting anyone know you were involved here… I don’t know much else.”

Decision:
1. “I understand the wife but the children?”
2. “I think I’ll need that drink.”
3. “I just want to take my idiot and leave, when’s the earliest I can do that?”
4. “I’m probably going to skip town for a bit, actually.”
5. “So that’s it then?”
6. (write in)

>>3287497
>“I just want to take my idiot and leave, when’s the earliest I can do that?”
>“…So that’s it then? Nothing about that rogue fae or anything?”
>"Am I free to explore the place now, or are those angels blocking some spots off?"
I wanna get a biiiiiiit more loot maybe before we leave. Sure the magic purifying water canteen with a fuckload capacity inside it is a sweet item, but we can still get a few more things assuming we have room for them. Doubt there'll be another fight unless we have to sell out and turn on Marlene Estavon and clear up THAT loose end from fucking us.

>>3287497
“I just want to take my idiot and leave, when’s the earliest I can do that?” Henry asked.

“Dawn at the earliest I’d say. Won’t be safe until then, side’s we need to get the gate open in the meantime. Couple of mechanics are coming in a few minutes to have a look at the thing and jury rig it open.” Cassius said.

“…So that’s it then? Nothing about that rouge fae or anything?” Henry asked.

“I tried to convince Marcus to go after it but the angels are going to take care of that, if it had any brain at all it probably fled. Don’t know how it even got inside the chateau or why it was so far south though, questions for another time.”

“So no sign of it?” Henry said, making sure he looked relieved.

“No worries bud, the angels searched the chateau top to bottom, with our help. Nothing abnormal left in the place, well, beyond the damned vase, but the angels are going to squirrel it back to a safe place.”

“A safe place?” Henry asked, “What the lunar vault?”

“Yep.” Cassius said. “Surprised you even know about that.”

“Its not a massive secret if you pay attention.” Henry said.

“Am I free to explore the place now, or are those angel’s blocking some spots off?”

“The Barons quarters and the basement are blocked off… but if you want to… well, claim a few things here or there, well, I won’t say anything. I don’t think Marcus would either, although don’t go asking him. The man’s in the inner gardens, seeing to the tainted nobility, so unless you do something stupid you shouldn’t run into him.
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

Henry dropped the boar spear at the entrance but kept on the cloth armor he’d recovered. The thing didn’t weigh all that much and it was nice to have something lightweight he could use. The great hall was filled with worried nobles and a few familiar faces. Venser was speaking with his apprentice and the militiamen, probably talking about how’d they’d get the people to safety. Ophelia was lying in a corner with a couple of injured people, a few more injured than there had been previously he noted. The newcomers were both private guards under the employ of the guests it seemed, based on their clothing’s colors.

“So where did Johnny run off to?” Cassius asked.

“The man went to go help a miller who got attacked by the spiders, his wife came to the signal tower for safety, we ran into her shortly after I shot the flare off.” Henry said.

He didn’t even have to lie about it.

“I’ll probably be meeting back up with him on the road to celeste.” Henry said.

“Fair enough.” Cassius said. “Gonna keep the peace around here for the time being, gotta make sure we don’t have too much panic.”

Decisions:
1. *LOOTING TIME* (feel free to write in ideas for loot, if I like them you can roll to see if you get them)
2. *try to slap Ophelia awake*
3. (Write in)

>>3287636
> *LOOTING TIME*
Want to head back to the kitchen and pocket those enchanted pewter candlesticks and some of those spice bottles (Saffron and Cinnamon definitely, but maybe one or two extra of other spices if possible). Maybe if the Baron has some quality soap and bathroom supplies, we could raid the bathrooms and snag some too. Home sweet sewer and all that shit.
I also want to see if we can find the Baron's wife's room, and loot some things there to give to Rosa when we get back

File: Shown-is-a-long-range-han(...).jpg (26 KB, 462x270)

26 KB JPG

>>3287636
A possible magic item could be maybe a pair of innocuous spectacles or odd device that allows the wearer to see heat, while also having some damn good durability? Pic related, though maybe not as complex or advanced. The Baron might have it to help spot prey (being a vampire and all) or as something to permit his close underlings to use? Not sure how you wanna go with that. Might require both red and blue mana to activate it or keep it active, not sure.

>>3289107
I like this.
Also check for goblets and dinnerware that can detect poison.
>>3289140
Would body heat detect undead?

>>3287636
Maybe a nice gilded picture frame, the boy can whittle the gold off of it later.

We are probably not going to earn much money but I think nicking jewelry might be bad of vermilion recognize any of it on the black market. If there's pearl necklaces, bejewelled rings etc we should just pick them apart and take the most valuable parts to sell piecemeal.

Check the armoury again if there's something we can use for Johnny's disguise.

>>3287636
THIS TOO >>3290881

Rolled 43, 57, 37, 74, 46 = 257 (5d100)

>>3289107
the wife's quarters are presently off limits I'm afraid.

>>3291505
1. candlesticks and spices are a success
2. the oddly specific heat seeking thing is a failure, which is just as well due to the fact vampires hardly need that stuff to seek out blood. (perhaps get Ophelia to try and make this)
3. the dinnerware is a failure
4. The pictureframe is a freebie, as for the jewelery, you just got a nice roll so I'm going to think up something with a light enchantment on it
5. mystery roll is a failure

writing

>>3287636
Henry took his time looting the place. He was like a kid in a candy store, all things considered. He’d need to get as much as he could carry to be ready for his move. He’d probably head down to Avignon for the time being. House Skalitz were the vampire house that ran the coastline and they utterly hated House Roma, so that would provide him safety in that department. He’d also have a similar if not larger customer base… Avignon had much lower security, and much more competition, and was known as the birthplace of stichcraft. Besides Henry needed to start getting some more powerful friends.

He didn’t want to take orders from people anymore, he’d decided. Well, he’d been wanting this for a long time, it wasn’t a spur of the moment thing…

He went back into the kitchen, passing through a throng of costumed nobles exciting chatting about the entire incident. There were a couple of angels idly sitting on the railings of the second floor, swinging their legs about and waiting, probably for their superior to give them marching orders.

Henry pocketed the various spices, and the candlesticks too for good measure. He heard some noise from the hallway and poked his head out. The militiamen were all gathered around Stanley, who seemed shell-shocked. He’d probably found German’s corpse… yeah, Henry didn’t want ANYTHING to do with THAT. No thank you.
(+ various spices, + enchanted candlesticks)

While none of them were looking he grabbed a picture frame off the wall carried it back into the kitchen. The thing was loaded with gemstones and was coated with gold. Henry didn’t have the time to scrape the gold off but the gemstones came out easily enough.

(+ 12 gemstones)

Finally, Henry headed back into the dining hall. There were far too many people in the grand hall for him to really go about stealing plates. But something shining on the ground caught his eye. It was a intricate silver necklace… no… it was moonsilver, actually, and fairly high quality moonsilver at that. It had a light warding charm built into it as well, from what Henry could tell the thing was still functional. The runework was fairly rudimentary but likely quite effective due to the moonsilver.

It had been a long while since Henry had owned any charms. He’d sold off the ones he had since he didn’t use magic beyond necromancy all that much. The things functioned as premade templates. You would send mana into them and they would pump out a specific spell. The problem was, it required white mana, it wasn’t nearly as complex as that owl converter charm… actually wait….

This would make a perfect gift for Charles along with the dagger. It would give him something to really defend himself with, and teach him the basics of spellcraft…

Henry smiled and pocketed the thing.

Decisions:
1. Head back out into the main hall
2. Head deeper into the chateau (risky)
3. *slap Ophelia awake* (you know you want to)
4. (write in)

>>3291621
forgot to mention

(+ minor angelic ward charm)

>>3291621
>4. (write in)
Pour some cold fresh water upon her head.

>>3291621
this >>3291637 but also
>attempt to head to the Baron's wife's room in their part of the Chateau, maybe you can talk your way in to JUST there and nowhere else

Rolled 9 (1d100)

>>3291652
>>3291637
writing

>>3291621
Henry deposited the cookware he’d accumulated from the kitchen onto the dining room table, and made his way over to Ophelia, making far less noise as he walked. He was thankful it hadn’t been a problem before, but carrying around a frying pan like a moron was not something he wanted to be seen doing in public.

(- Frying Pan, 2 Butcher's Knives, 2 Cutting Knives)

Henry opened up his newly stolen… FAIRLY EARNED flask, and poured its contents onto Ophelia’s face. The woman did not react at all and Henry stopped before her clothing got too soaked. She was probably going to get a cold now. Even Charles wasn’t this heavy a sleeper. Henry hoped she hadn’t suffered any brain damage from being choked out unconscious, he needed her brain in good working order… or whatever the hell passed for working order with her.

So he sighed, steadied himself, and tried to find where the Baron’s quarters were located. Which as it happened, was the second floor. Down a hallway that was directly behind the grand staircase.

There were a couple of angels in chainmail and light cloth armor guarding the entrance. Henry really only had the option to talk with them. Well, even if he had red mana ready he’d still probably only have the option to talk with them.

One of them took immediate notice while the other simply stared off into space, clearly bored, or maybe tired. Did angels even get tired?

Decisions:
1. *talk to them* (write in)
2. “uh… hi?”
3. On second thought this is a horrible idea what are you doing oh god oh god.
4. (write in)

>>3291738
>3. On second thought this is a horrible idea what are you doing oh god oh god.
>4. (write in)
Continue, cause just showing up and then turning back is much more suspicious, then directly asking them about entrance to the room.
2. “uh… hi?”

>>3291738
this >>3291743
start out slow

>>3291745
>>3291743
writing

>>3291738
Henry stared up at the two angels like an idiot for a moment before seizing up.

What the fuck was he doing. This was a horrible idea, oh god oh god what the shit? He realized backing away would be far worse than talking, but he was having trouble thinking up anything.

The angel on the left adjusted her gaze to stare at him. She had a pair of pure white eyes and light blonde hair which waved about on its own, disconcertingly. The other angel, the one on the right continued to stare off into space, and yawned. Apparently angels COULD get tired.

He had to say something, and quickly. He was reminded of the way a deer would freeze up when being confronted by a hunter, he felt like the deer. He didn’t want to be a stupid deer.

“Uh… hi?” Henry asked.

“Hello.” The tired angel responded, glancing down at him. Her eyes looked human, and she had a pair of brown irises to match her brown hair.

“State your purpose for seeking entry.” The serious one demanded.

Decisions:
1. “I was hoping to loot the interior.” (try to joke)
2. “What’s going on in there?”
3. “I uh… I have to use the bathroom, do you know where it is?”
4. (Write in)

>>3291797
>1. “I was hoping to loot the interior.” (try to joke)

>>3291797
this >>3291801

Rolled 15 (1d100)

>>3291809
>>3291801

>>3291797
“I was hoping to loot the interior.” Henry said.

Henry backed up a couple of steps as the serious angel drew her sword and pointed it at him. Why the fuck had he made a stupid joke to someone who didn’t understand what humor was.

“So you admit to a crime you were about to commit?! I’ve long understood how foolish some humans can be but that is beyond the pale!”

“I think he was joking.” The sleepy angel said.

“Why would you EVER joke about something like that?!” The serious one responded.

Henry almost tripped down the stairs as he backed up.

Decisions:
1. “IT WAS A JOKE, GOOD LORD.”
2. “I uh… bye…”
3. “Uh… hi?”
4. (write in)

>>3291838
>4. (write in)
"Was it that convincing"
Mutter under breath
"Shoulda went with a pickup line."

>>3291858
We can play our coming up here off as just wanting to meet and "thank" the angels for protecting us mere mortals.

Rolled 19 (1d100)

>>3291838
yeah this >>3291858 >>3291864

Rolled 90 (1d100)

>>3291949
>>3291858
ey boys check this sick shit out

>>3291959
How long do I have to wait for my angel waifu??

>>3294394
>angel waifu
Angels are cunts, all of them. Besides why would you want to waifu a bitch with wings, when we already have a waifu that won't smite our face in back at the capital?

>>3294735
And the ones that somehow do turn out okay, are then tossed into the pit of eternal suffering.

>>3294735
>>3294394
>>3291949
>>3291858
writing

>>3291838
“Was it that convincing?!” Henry asked.

“Yes!” The tired angel said. “I told you he was merely joking, you don’t understand how these humans think!”

“And you understand a little too well I feel.” The serious one replied. “Look, are you lost? I realize you experienced something traumatic but we cannot allow you to wander where you please, return to your flock.”

“Should’ve went with a pickup line.” Henry muttered under his breath.

“Shall I return him to his kind?” The tired one asked.

“Berth, I cannot allow you to abandon your post due to some whimsy, lest you end up like that defective.”

“The one winged one?” Berth asked. “Is she truly defective? Yet we’ve been told she’ll be allowed to continue her du-“

“Enough.” The serious one said.

Decisions:
1. “Is her name agla?”
2. “I’m going to go…”
3. *head back down and slap Ophelia awake, you want to hit something anyway.”
4. (Write in)

>>3295755
>“Is her name Agla?”
>"How is she doing by the way?"
Gotta show we care, somewhat.

>>3295755
>4. (Write in)
Sorry, just wanted to thank you for what you do for us people.
Then leave.

>>3295767
Eh, we can do this first.

>>3295769
>>3295767
writing

>>3295755
“Is her name Agla?” Henry asked.

“Why yes it is!” Berth said excitedly. “If he knows who she is we’re allowed to talk about her correct?!”

“Silence Berth.” The serious one said. “I don’t know how you figured that out but I don’t want to speak of it, it’s none of your concern, mortal.”

“Can you at least tell me how she is doing?” Henry asked.

“Hrmph, she’s been assigned as Seer Richmond’s guardian angel. I have no idea why that man takes a liking to such odd creatures. You would think the drake would be enough.” The serious angel said. “Well whatever the case the matter is settled. Does that answer your question now?”

“Thank you, it does.” Henry said. “And thank you for everything else you’ve done here tonight.”

“You’re welcome.” Both of them said at once.

Decision:
1. *Wait until morning, then leave* (will end case)
2. *try to find Marlene, you have things to discuss*
3. *try to wake up Ophelia*

>>3295794
>2. *try to find Marlene, you have things to discuss*

>>3295794
This >>3295797
fucking fae bitch making us ditch our cozy sewer home
at least Avignon has the sea and cult of progress and a vampire house that hates Vermillion
sure all vamps are fucking bad, but at least these ones hate Vermillion

>>3295797
>>3295822
writing

>>3295794
Henry turned and walked down the steps that led to the first floor of the great hall. He only turned back to look at the angels once. Both of which were back to their normal posture. One could mistake them for marble statues wearing clothing from a distance given how little they moved.

Marlene wasn’t difficult to find, in fact she was waiting for Henry at the bottom of the steps. One of her hands was gripping onto the iron railing while the other patted a spot next to her. She obviously had things to say to Henry. The woman was cheeky as hell, having this conversation not only in the presence of angels but in the presence of everyone else.

“My gallant knight returns.” The woman said simply. “Sit, we have much to discuss.”

“I’ve already made plans to leave town.”

“You’ve done me a great service today, and I can promise you it’s a service I won’t soon be forgetting…”

Decisions:
1. “I still do not trust you.”
2. “So what sort of rewards are we talking here?”
3. “As long as mr. red takes a dirt nap I’m happy.”
4. (write in)

>>3295858
>1. “I still do not trust you.”
Not like I trusted my previous 'patron."

>>3295858
>"Wow, that's not ominous at all."
and >>3295872, then
>"How are you holding that iron railing like that?"

>>3295875
>>3295872
writing

>>3295858
“I still do not trust you.” Henry said.

“Because I will not sign little words on a piece of paper?” Marlene asked. “If you cannot trust people then you must live in constant fear of people, I’d expect.”

Henry decided not to comment on that.

“Regardless, your words aren’t all that ominous at least.”

“I sense the sarcasm, unlike our feathered friends.” Marlene said.

“So how are you able to hold the iron railing, and more importantly, how are you able to blend into parties so well?”

“Hrm, well how should I explain this… to anyone, I’m a timid girl, and to anyone who looks at my soul that’s also what they would see, but I have another side to me too…” Marlene said, gesturing up at the angels.

“It’s not something that I could easily describe given the circumstances, nor do I think you have words to explain it.”

“Is she your host?” Henry asked.

“A husk.” Marlene replied. “A willing one.”

Decisions:
1. *ask more questions* (write in)
2. “Why should I trust people? Trust isn’t rewarded in this world.”
3. “Kind of funny to be lectured on trust by you of all people.”
4. (write in)

>>3295987
So she is a hostage against enemies with a conscience. Smart

>>3295987
this >>3296305 but even more sarcastic

Does it work against angels when the gig is up?

>>3295987
“So a hostage against enemies with a conscience?” Henry asked. “Clever.”

“You don’t quite understand, which is understandable.” Marlene said, “Perhaps I could explain the gift of nothing to you one day.. hrm…”

“It seems to work well enough.” Henry said, glancing up at the angels.

“They don’t know where to look, a desperate measure.” Marlene said.

“Not a normal thing?” Henry asked.

“Clever boy.” Marlene replied. “If you have anything further to ask, feel free. Not like you have anywhere else you can be, until the gate is repaired.”

Decisions:
1. (write in)
2. *end case*

>>3298377
Do you have any plans regarding my previous employer.
check out the gardens for plant seeds might have some special plants or something, maybe even ones for deadly poison that leaves bodies in a more intact condition.
Then lets wake ophelia up.

>>3298377
This >>3298390
but also split the loot with Ophelia and wander around the Chateau. Maybe her inventor sense will be able to give us more ideas as to what we could loot, in case she can use something for something else.

>>3299198
>>3298390
writing

>>3298377
“Do you have any plans regarding my previous employer?”

“We both know the answer to that particular question. It’s a shame really, I never had any interest in him until he stuck his nose in my business, but things should go a lot smoother now. I’ll probably send you a letter after all of this is over. I imagine it’ll find its way to you well enough.” Marlene said. “As for payment, I’d imagine you’d want something… how about an in with the nobility?”

“An in?” Henry asked.

“You wish to control your destiny yes?” Marlene asked. “Well you cannot do that without power, although I wouldn’t really call knowing people power… yet its crucial, I can provide that, and much more.”

“The fact you’re trying to convince me is a welcome change.” Henry said.

“Trying to force people into doing things doesn’t foster trust.”

“Stop bullshitting.” Henry replied.

“Fine.” Marlene said. “If you have nothing more to discuss…”

“Thank you for your time.” Henry said, before getting up and wandering back over to Ophelia.

Slapping time…

>ROLL 1D100

Rolled 22 (1d100)

>>3301126
>>ROLL 1D100
Don't we have any smelling salts?

Rolled 22 (1d100)

>>3301126

>>3301176
>>3301159
OH SHIT NIGGA

>>3301180
I can't imagine how much more WOKE Ophelia can get

>>3301126
“Wake up you lazy sack of…” Henry muttered to Ophelia’s sleeping form.

The woman seemed to be dreaming giving the murmuring about all sorts of arcane bullshit. She had a wide smile on her face as well, so whatever it was she was having a good time.

“Y-yes I’d love the arcane talent award… oh and a grant?!” Ophelia said, still asleep.

“Wakey wakey.” Henry retorted, before slapping her a few times for effect.

A couple of the guests turned and stared at him, and Henry shot daggers back. He slapped Ophelia a couple more times.

“N-no…” Ophelia muttered. “I don’t want to wake up yet dad…”

“Hey Ophelia, someone called your rune work garbage.”

“THEY DID WHAT?!” Ophelia screamed, bolting straight up and head-butting Henry in the process.

They both rolled around for a moment on the floor while clutching their heads.

“WHO?!” Ophelia said.

“Nobody you nitwit.” Henry replied, slapping her across the head one more time for good measure.

“STOP HITTING M-“

SLAP

“Trouble controlling the wife?” One of the onlookers said, snickering.

“She wishes.” Henry replied.

“What did I miss?” Ophelia said. “WHERE IS THAT SOLDIER, I’M GOING TO GIVE HIM A PIECE OF MY MIND.”

“So you remember, and you still want to be violent?”

“YES, HE COULD’VE DAMAGED MY BEATIFUL BRAIN!” Ophelia said, coughing as the bruising around her neck started to register in her brain.

Decision:
1. “Only part of you left that’s beatfiul at this point.”
2. “Come on, we’ve got work to do.”
3. “Happy you didn’t suffer brain damage, I think.”
4. (write in)

>>3301210
>4. (write in)
We better get going, we have a long walk home.

>>3301214
writing

>>3301210
“We better get going, we have a long walk home and I need to make sure you can walk.” Henry said.

“But what about the carriage?” Ophelia asked.

“Fuck, right, we have that.” Henry replied. “I guess…”

“And what about Marlene… did the plan fail?” Ophelia asked, hiding behind Henry as Marlene glanced at them.

Decisions:
1. “We’re working with Marlene now”
2. “Its… complex?”
3. “now’s not the time.”
4. “Stanley… the guy who choked you is over there if you want to give him a ‘piece of your mind’”

>>3301238
>3. “now’s not the time.”
...
Seriously not the time, and DEFINITELY not the place, we'll talk once we're back at the office.

>>3301238
>“Its… complex?”
>"You still need to help me loot as much as I can before dawn. Here, take these." Discreetly pass Ophelia the candlesticks. "They're enchanted with... something. Not sure what, but I got them anyway."
>"We're heading to the armory next. I spotted some flamecasters over there, and I thought you'd want to 'examine' them a little."

>>3301250
>>3301246
writing

>>3301238
“Now’s not the time.” Henry said.

“Oh that’s lovely, so I’m just to be left in the dark?!”

“Look around Ophelia, problems solved; we can discuss what happened during your little nap when we get back to the office, alright?”

“Can you at least give me a synopsis?” Ophelia said, hopeful.

“It’s… complex?” Henry replied, and then he pulled in close. “I want you to help me grab as much as we can before dawn.” Henry said, discreetly passing Ophelia a pair of candlesticks. Ophelia gasped and immediately began investigating them publically. Fortunately nobody was paying them any further mind, and thus didn’t catch onto the theft.

“These are beautiful…” Ophelia muttered. “Where did you-“

“They’re enchanted, I’m not really sure how, the runework is fairly complex for what amounts to a parlor trick.” Henry continued. “Might be useful for the project you were working on though, and if you have any sense you won’t ask me stupid questions.”

“This… this will speed up the efficiency… at least!” Ophelia said. “I want to start as soon as we get back, inspiration struck me as I slept… do you have paper?!”

“We’re heading to the armory…” Henry said. “I spotted some flamecasters there… I thought you’d want to examine them a little…”

“PAPER?!” Ophelia asked again.

“Sure, yeah, I think I saw some they used to keep inventory.” Henry replied.

The woman bolted off down a random hallways as soon as the words left his mouth. Henry tapped his foot and counted the seconds it took before she came back. All thirty of them.

“Follow me.” Henry said, smiling.

“I know where it is! I just… I want to make sure you do..”

“Oh, sure, silly me.” Henry said. “Well keep with me I might get lost for a bit, hope you don’t judge too harshly.”

“O-oh…” Ophelia replied, clutching at her head.

The two made their way downstairs to find the walls coated in… something… It was like the walls had been coated in quicksilver, yet the whole area smelled of blood. There was a red haired angel poking the ground with her spear and trying to avoid stepping in the stuff, though probably more out of disgust than out of any real danger. The walls had chunks of stone missing in several places, and the temporary barricade that Nelson and Stu had made had been torn down.

“The fuck happened down here?”

“Looks like mimic blood…” Ophelia said. “CAN I TAKE SAMPLES… ugh… after the paper?”

“Knock yerself out.” Henry replied.

Decisions:
1. “Is the armory open?” (to the angel)
2. *Try to pass through unnoticed* (roll 1d100)
3. *head back upstairs*

>>3301338
>"And yeah, that IS mimic blood. Cassius told me the Baron was keeping one down here. Took two angels to slay." (to Ophelia) (whisper this next part) "You got anything to keep that in, or maybe you can go get an empty jar from the kitchen?"
>“Is the armory open?” (to the angel) "If it helps, I was the guy who called you guys here from the signal tower."

>>3301365
Sure, lets do this

>>3301423
>>3301365
writing

>>3301338
“And yeah, it is mimic blood.” He added. “Cassius told me the Baron was keeping one down here, too two angels to slay, apparently wounded one as well.”

“I didn’t see any blood belonging to an angel… how did it even injure one of them?” Ophelia muttered. “Regardless how did he even get the thing in here? Mimics… don’t like being put in cages, though they sometimes appear as cages.”

“No idea, don’t deal with horrifying creatures generally.” Henry replied sarcastically. “Maybe it got a cheap shot on one of the angels? Doesn’t really matter, thing is dead. Got anything to keep the blood in?”

“What kind of inventor would I be if I didn’t keep storage on me?” Ophelia said, grabbing into her coat with her hand and pulling out a couple of glass vials and a few corks as well. “Go on, laugh about how I keep these on my person, I know you want to.” She said, becoming annoyed.

“Actually that’s a good idea, maybe I’ll start carrying some on me as well.” Henry said. “Grab as much as you can, we can sell what we don’t need. From what I understand it’s a hell of a magical component.”

“You know your stuff.” Ophelia said, beginning to scoop up the blood.

Henry watched and the blood began to wiggle around a bit. Ophelia didn’t seem worried as she began to scoop it up into vials, being careful to not get any on her hands.

“Long as it doesn’t get on you you’re fine, least while it’s fresh like this.” Ophelia said.

“Be careful there.” The angel called over. “The vile creature’s blood is still potent.”

“Exactly! Isn’t it fantastic?!” Ophelia said while gathering up more into her second vial.

The angel stared at her, taken aback.

>>3301482
“Is the armory open?” Henry asked as the angel regained her broken composure.

“We don’t have it blocked off, although why would you need weapons, the main threat is gone.” The angel said.

“For the ride back home.” Henry said. “I want to make sure I have something to defend myself with.”

“Fine.” The angel replied. “Just be quick about it, I was informed that I should not let anyone wander too far off from the flock.”

“The flock?” Henry asked

“The worshipers, the flock, the people.” The angel replied. “Do you have any further questions?”

“No, thank you.”

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

It took a few more minutes for Ophelia to work her way into the armory, by then Henry had already done a bit of an inventory. There were several longswords, a few more daggers, a bunch of bows and arrows, and a few maces among the weaponry, along with the flamecasters. The stuff would be a pain in the ass to haul back, and among them he figured that only the flamecaster would be worth the weight.

Ophelia immediately went over to the flame-casters, running her hands down one of them while muttering thing creepily.

Decisions:
1. “Stop that, good lord.”
2. *take something* (write in)
3. *take a particular item* (write in an item you’d want.)
4. (write in)

>>3301490
>4. (write in)
Will you be able to carry a flamecaster by yourself?
Grab more daggers, and if she can't, make her carry the daggers and other items while we carry the flammenwerfer.

>>3301490
this >>3302195
based flammenwerfers
We should also get someone sneaky we know to go get us a bottle of perfume or something nice for Rosa from Baron's wife's chambers. Someone who can get past the angels easily. Someone who can sneak up on people as if teleporting.

Basically, Cassius.

>>3301490
this>>3302248
Let's hope he's not too off-put by the prospect of "finding" a gift for us, but the reasin shouldn't faze him though, right? It's for a lady after all.

>>3302351
When we tell him it's the same annoying nosy healer lady from back in New Haven and the other places, he's going to laugh in our face hard. In-character, Henry's reason would be as a sort of triple gratitude/apology/persuasion present for Rosa. Gratitude for wanting to hear him out about his traumatic past and being willing to listen, apology for not being able to tell her everything all at once, and persuasion because "lol you better not open your big mouth about anything I tell you or you'll definitely die" so she needs to keep it to herself as much as humanly possible. And well, he IS a 23(?) year old guy and Rosa IS an annoyingly cute healer girl who is broken in her own way, but Henry would never admit it out loud except in certain cases.

>>3302371
>>3302351
>>3302248
>>3302195
reading posts, then writing!

>>3301490
“Will you be able to carry a flamecaster by yourself?” Henry asked.

Ophelia had already slung a harness over her shoulder and was in the processes of attaching one of the casters to her back. The woman was having some difficulty with it. Henry’s help was much appreciated.

“I can carry one at least. This is so exciting, actual flame-casters, made with actual parts! No more having to cobble together these out of third rate junk!” She said, excited. “Oh I know exactly what we’re going to do with these…. Ticky mark II here we come!”

“Happy to see you are thinking about that.” Henry said.

“I’ve decided I want to make the thing even if you get to control it… I might not have much longer to live in your tender care anyways, so I want to leave a mark.” Ophelia said. “Stop making me think about that, I’m finally happy.”

The woman held the other flamecaster to her belly like she was cradling a child, it was incredibly unnerving. It took some convincing but Henry managed to sling the thing over his back with a second harness, the thing was fairly heavy, it had to be at least ten pounds, maybe fifteen. Not something to be used lightly.

The duo headed back. The flamecasters elicited a grunt from the angels and some stares from the guests, but not much else. Cassius waved the two over and took a look at their plunder.

“Well I never thought you’d grab those old pieces of junk.” Cassius said.

“They’re in perfect working order!” Ophelia said.

“Well not that, I mean they’re such old models, what we have at the headquarters are half the size.”

“You’ll have to get me one of those.” Henry said.

“Not a chance.” Cassius replied. “I’m willing to let you ride off with a bit of contraband but I can’t let you get inquisitorial property, so don’t even think about it.”

Decisions:”
1. “How’s the boss doing?”
2. “I don’t suppose you’ve met Sarah yet…”
3. “Can you do me a small favor?”
4. (write in)

Rolled 7 (1d100)

>>3303147
>“Can you do me a small favor?”
basically >>3302248
rolling to not blush or betray any sort of hinting or emotion to Cassius, full poker face while on the inside Henry thinks "Everything's fine."

>>3303147
>2. “I don’t suppose you’ve met Sarah yet…
>>3303153
AND this

>>3303174
>>3303153
roll 1d100

Rolled 41 (1d100)

>>3303179

>>3303181
thats a pass.

>>3303147
“I don’t suppose you’ve met Sarah yet.” Henry said.

“Hello Sarah.” Cassius said. “Sorry about the trouble tonight.”

“Oh it’s not your fault…” Ophelia said, murmuring something nasty about Henry under her breath.

“Thanks Sarah…” Henry said.

“Well to be fair, you do have an air of bad luck around you mate.” Cassius said. “Every time you stop somewhere shit goes wrong, makes things fun though. I figured tonight was going to be a fun time when I saw you in the crowd.”

“I KNEW I WASN’T CRAZY.” Ophelia shouted. “I’ve been saying that to Johnny for weeks and he hasn’t believed a word of it and I thought that-“

“We never met tonight before now.” Henry said.

“Do you really think that silly owl mask was gonna fool me?” Cassius said, chuckling. “So was that all or did you want to ask me something?”

“Yeah I wanted to know if you can do me a small favor…” Henry said.

“Look if it’s taking evidence, or doing something stupid I can’t.”

“I want a bottle of perfume from the lady’s chambers; I don’t really know what would be good I’ll admit…”

“Oh… I see…” Cassius said, grinning. “So the bachelor has a lady then… who is it for?”

Decisions:
1. *lie* (write in optional)
2. *tell the truth*
3. (write in)

>>3303199
>3. (write in)
Don't want her name to get back to her superiors, might make it bad for her.

>>3303199
this >>3303203
but also play coy and say "she's someone both of us have met before" :^)

>>3303204
>>3303203
roll to bluff

Rolled 61 (1d100)

>>3303210

Rolled 77 (1d100)

>>3303210

>>3303214
pass, barely. Seems Henry's lying skills are something to be reckoned with.

>>3303199
“I don’t want her name to get back to her superiors…” Henry said.

“That’s not good enough…” Cassius said, annoyed. “I can’t just be giving out stuff willy nilly.”

“Yet you were okay with us taking things?” Ophelia asked.

“I just looked the other way for that…” Cassius said. “It’s a bit different since I’ll have to go through the angels.”

“Look, let’s just say she’s someone both of us have met before…”

Cassius raised an eyebrow and looked at Ophelia for a split second, then chuckled. “Happy to see you found someone with a personality to match yours.” Cassius said. “I’ll do it pal.”

Cassius waved goodbye and climbed up the steps, talked to the angels for a moment, then disappeared into the family area.

“What do you think he meant by that?” Ophelia asked. “My personality is perfect, just like the rest of me.”

Decision:
1. *better to not respond*
2. “except your face.”
3. (write in)

>>3303238
>"If only you had a better way to record your invention ideas. Well, and a better way to get them in the first place."
>"Also your social skills still need a lot of work."
>"...And you could do with getting a bit stronger. Lifting flamecasters is a good start."

>>3303255
Supportin

>>3303300
>>3303255
writing

>>3303238
“Well I can think of a few things that could be improved.” Henry said.

“Not a WORD about-“

“You need a better way to record your invention ideas, and a better way to have them in the first place, they’re too random and cause far too much trouble.”

“But that’s-“

“And your social skills need some work, I’m going to be giving you some lessons, no complaining.”

“I don’t need-“

“And you could do with getting a bit stronger, lifting that flamecaster is a good start. I can probably get Johnny to start you off lifting some weights or something. The fucker still has me do a bunch of dumb shit even now.” Henry said.

“I want a say in this!” Ophelia whinned.

“Well tough shit.” Henry replied.

“Hello lovebirds, I’m back!” Cassius said, tossing a glass vial underhanded to Henry.

Henry barely caught it in time before in smashed on the floor.

“Maybe you should be the one improving.” Cassius said, “Awful reaction times, you’d flunk out of training.”

“I’m not an inquisitor nor do I have any interest.”

“You’d probably fail the background check…” Ophelia muttered.

Decisions:
1. *welp, time to leave* (end case)
2. *do final actions* (write in)
3. (write in)

>>3303392
>1. *welp, time to leave* (end case)
Wait
>3. (write in)
Where do we go to collect our pay?

>>3303392
>Examine perfume bottle.
>Smile and nod. Just smile and nod.
>*welp, time to leave* (end case)
Nice loot, plus some great intrigue and stuff for the future. TIME TO BLOW THIS POPSICLE STAND
>>3303438
Oh yeah we gotta collect our pay too, so let's do that when possible, THEN blow this popsicle stand

>>3303438
>>3303451
writing

>>3303392
“Henry inspected the bottle, looking over the final craft glass and embellishments. The thing was too fancy, he’d have to switch the container out or Rosa would be suspicious of its origin. He probably had some round glass vials back home. Ugh he’d have to start making a list of what he’d need to take. He’d need to figure a way out of the city… ugh so much work…

He took a sniff of the contents and noticed a rose and what appeared to be an extract of whale oil, or something similar, certainly came from whales though, the smell was distinct. It smelled nice enough. This was high grade stuff, of that he could be sure.

Henry smiled and nodded at Cassius, who grinned and nodded back. Henry found that he really did enjoy plundering, especially when he didn’t have to get his hands dirty OR face the moral repercussions of his actions. He hadn’t really caused any of this, for once. It was out of his control, so he could relax.

All that was left was his pay…

“So about my pay for the work performed…” Henry asked.

“Oh… that…” Cassius said. “Yeah … uhm…”

“I am getting paid right?”

“Uh… Marcus said that we wouldn’t be paying you for the work, since this wasn’t a paid job in the first place…”

“What?!”

“This was a bureau job.”

“WHAT?!”

“It was sent to us directly from command, this wasn’t a private job!” Cassius said. “So no pay, out of my hands!”

Final Case Decision:
1. “SON OF A BITCH”
2. *say nothing and stomp off*
3. “Welp, tonight has been a complete and utter fucking waste.”
4. “Come on Ophelia, let’s go have some of the leftovers, I’m hungry.”
5. (write in)

>>3303495
>5. (write in)
"Could of told me this shit before hand, so I wouldn't get my hopes on paying bills up."
"Ugh"
>4. “Come on Ophelia, let’s go have some of the leftovers, I’m hungry.”

>>3303495
this >>3303515

>>3303495
“Could have told me this shit beforehand, so I wouldn’t get my hopes of paying bills up.”

“Come on, we both know you probably have five years of pay in your pockets.” Cassius said. “You’re just lucky you don’t get searched when you finish a job. Maybe you buy me a couple rounds some time.”

“Yeah, sure Cassius.” Henry replied.

“Come on Ophelia, let’s go have some leftovers, I’m hungry.”

“Mind if I join you guys?” Cassius asked. “I didn’t… actually eat anything tonight.”

“Oh right, you wandered off with some servant girl right?”

“Heh, yeah.” Cassius said dismissively.

The food was, well it was fantastic, better than anything Henry had had before, if anything it the experience reminded him that he needed to learn how to cook better. Johnny had no skill at it, and Charles wouldn’t be much good at it either, he figured.

The desert was divine, and more importantly, untouched as it hadn’t been sent out yet. The trio feasted on mutton, deer, beef, roasted vegetables and crème filled pastries, and a little bit of wine. Well, Henry wasn’t about to let Ophelia get DRUNK. Cassius had a few pieces of meat and a couple of cakes, but that was it. The man seemed troubled by something, but Henry knew better than to pry, especially when he was almost home free.

Hell, if only Vermillion could see him now… heh. He might die horribly from this, but to be honest it would almost be worth it.


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

>>3303548
We need to learn some stealth skills so we won't be beat as much as we normally do.

>>3303548
>end of the tonight's session, and the case
>We've almost come up on a full year of necromancer detective, so thanks everyone! I hope we can continue into the next major arc!

>>3303568
good shit Lore

>>3303568
https://pastebin.com/raw/PHc7TmBN

current list of spells and mana amounts as a refresher

>>3303548
==============(Mana Amounts)=================

RED (CURRENTLY 5)


BLACK (CURRENTLY 5)


BLUE (CURRENTLY 3)

This is a per day basis, these will reset after a long enough period of rest


>(You have 3 upgrade points, so 3 additional points of mana to allocate any way you see fit)

========================================================


====================(Spells)================================

Silence: Will completely stop you or a targeted person or object from making any noise at all, from any action. You can cancel the spell at any point of time. (Costs 1 bar of blue mana)(can be snapcasted for 1.5 bars of blue mana)


Undead Rush: Will cause any undead DIRECTLY under your control to break out in a run, allowing them to quickly close distance and overwhelm opponents. They will also be able to leap onto opponents as well. Effect lasts several minutes. (Costs 1 bar of black mana to cast)(can be snapcasted for 1.5 bars of black mana)
Necromantic Heart: Will allow you and up to one other person who maintains direct contact with you to avoid detection by any wandering undead (meaning not directly controlled). Will also make you appear dead to any who use scrying or magical means to try and detect you. (costs 1 bar of black mana to cast)(can be snapcasted for 1.5 bars of black mana)


Minor Scry (May be changed a bit if it makes it more fun to use): Will let you scope out a room or a small area of space and will allow you to detect both living and magical beings. Those who are using cloaking magics will of course be out of your sight, and you will not be able to control exactly where the spell will end up (costs 1 bar of blue mana to cast)(can be snapcasted for 2 bars of blue mana)


Dark Healing: Steal the very Vis from someone and use it to heal yourself, this can outright kill those who are already injured, but can be resisted by those with enough willpower or physical strength. Vis is the energy that binds a soul to a body. Removing all of it will cause the soul to float freely, leaving the body a dead shell. Cannot be used to heal another person or creature, because sharing isn’t fun. (Costs 2 Black mana to cast)(is always snapcast)
Cancel: Will prevent a mage from being able to cast spells unless that mage can manage to overpower it. Basically you cut them off from the mana bank for a minute or two. Differs from dispel in the fact that it works BEFORE a spell gets cast. (Costs 1.5 bars of blue mana to cast)(is always snapcast)

Mind Rot: Can temporarily (or permanently if powerful enough) cause an opponent to lose their concentration for a period of time and be left slightly insane. Effects can vary WIDELY, ALSO CAN CAUSE PERMANENT MENTAL DAMAGE TO THE TARGET, USE WITH CAUTION. (Costs 1 bar of black mana, 1 bar of blue mana, and one bar of any mana to cast)(is always snapcast)

>continued below

>>3308474
Internal Combustion: Destruction of a different sort. Dislike buildings? Weapon or armor getting in the way of a killing blow? Gargoyle getting you down? Not anymore! With this little spell any unliving material can be blasted from the inside, assuming you can get close enough to give it a little love tap. The effect can be instant or delayed, allowing you to set traps in certain areas! (Costs 1 red mana to cast)(costs 1.5 red mana to snapcast)(EFFECTS MAY VARY)

Swerve: Pesky spells aimed at you constantly? With this little spell, you can grab those spells out of the air and make choose a new target for them for each spell affected! (Costs 1 red mana, mana)(always snapcast)

Haste: Need to get somewhere in a flash? Need to escape from something terrifying? Skipped leg day? No worries, with haste you can quickly traverse a distance, escape from traps or pursuers, or leap great distances with ease and with, dare I say it, “HASTE”. (will require Larry’s help)

Quicken: Don’t have enough time to cast a spell? Want to cast more? Well here is a fun little spell for you. Allows you to cast 1 additional spell this turn, and 2 spells the next turn. (Costs 2 blue mana, 1 red mana to cast)

Dark touch: will kill an opponent dead, assuming the spell connects and the opponent is alive, unlike a bolt spell does not damage the body (uses 1.5 black mana, can be snapcast for 3 black mana)

Undead Vision: Lets you move your sight into one of the undead you control. You need to have a general idea of their location, and the undead needs to be under your control for this to work (costs 1 black mana per cast, can be snapcast for 2 black mana)

Blight: An old favorite. Creates an area of blight in which opponents will have to fight off your will, can take out a swath of opponents if used correctly (uses 1 black mana + X black mana. The higher the ‘x’ amount of mana is, the greater the area of effect and the overall killing power is)

>>3308475
>2 spells will be chosen

> Pick the top 3 spells you want Henry to learn, the #1 choice gets 3 votes, the #2 gets 2 votes, and the #3 gets 1 vote. Votes are tallied and the spells with the most points are selected, while ties will cause a runoff vote. This vote will remain open for about a week or so to allow as many people as possible to vote, although if there is a decisive victory I will end the voting period.

>>3308482
>Finally, I'm awarding something I'm going to call a 'creation point', this is a special thing that can be used to either create a new spell (which I will stat personally) or to upgrade an existing spell (which I will have to consider before accepting to ensure it doesn't break things gamewise)

>>3308482
Spells
>Necromantic Heart
because faking death is so fucking good, and it fits Henry in-character too
>Internal Combustion
We Yoshikage Kira now? Well, if we can get a delayed priming upgrade of this, then yeah. Henry's gonna get a quiet life one way or another...
>Blight
Because synergy to get BLIGHTNING later

Mana
>Black
>Black
>Red
3 Blue mana bars are enough for now, since all the Blue spells we have are
>Gheist Trap (1)
>Close Mind (0.5)
>Dispel (0.5)
>Memory Scatter (1 or 1.5)
Black and Red are necessary for the FUCK YOUR SHIT spells we have.

>creation point
I'd rather save it for later down the road honestly. We aren't at high tier enough to warrant creating a new spell, nor have any reason to make one at this time. As much as I want the delayed priming upgrade on Internal Combustion, I want to keep this point for when we ABSOLUTELY need to perma-enhance something we can do probably Ball Blightning enhance MUCH later for when we inevitably need to kill Abraxas

>>3308549
calling it early boys and girls but feel free to ask me random questions about the world

>>3308549
Sheit, I like this

>>3308549
Magnetic ball lightning?
Mark the target, and then release the ball lightning and it will "magnetically" seek the target.