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>>3898499
>from prior thread

As the carriage drew around the final bend, Henry’s excitement turned to confusion and then horror. He could see flames leaping up from the town as well as angelic magic being fired off at the forces on the ground. There were troops swarming over the place although he couldn’t tell who. This was bad, very bad, extremely bad.

As everything came to a head, a massive explosion shook the entire countryside. Trees were flung about like toothpicks near the town as buildings were flung about like toys. The shockwave spooked the horses and the carriage was flung into a ditch. Larry and Ophelia were thrown off the back while the driver was dashed against some rocks. The interior was a mess Rosa, Charles, and Henry were flung about amongst broken glass and shattered wood. Xavier landed behind the cart gracefully as he could managed, the only one to avoid any real trouble.

Henry kicked out the door and lifted Charles out, then gave assistance to Rosa.

“Holy shit.” Larry muttered, fear in his voice for the first time that day.

Henry spun around to find something unbelievable. Something terrifying. In the fading light, a massive spirit, towering over the nearby town, and standing level with the nearby hills. A massive being of red mana, something that looked like a giant ghiest tore up the countryside as the angels around ducked and weaved out of the way. Henry felt himself become paralyzed for a moment as he watched Rosa rush off thoughtlessly to try and save the driver.

“God protect us.” Xavier muttered.

Henry watched as an angel, what he believed to be an archangel, stand before the creature. The archangel cast a massive spell, using up tremendous amounts of white mana, forming a holy sword of pure light. The sword was big enough to cut the creature in twain. The sword slammed down into the beast, which managed to knock it away as pieces of itself came loose, turning into bouts of lighting and flame. The thing shrieked, then swatted the archangel away into a nearby hill, causing the earth itself to shake.

Henry watched as white mana trailed out of the hill in the form of a barrier as the archangel tried to get airborne. One final, tremendous punch put an end to any hope of resistance as the hillside was torn off by the force.

The beast, leaned over the destroyed hill, and great bouts of fire and lightning emerged from its maw as it scorched the earth. The creature than began lumbering off, ignoring the angels buzzing around it and the scattered forces on the ground.

The town had gone boom.

=================================(End of Chapter)===================================

>>3898503
Uh.

Did we get paid yet? Because that will influence my choices.

“Never forget that scientific progress requires the sacrifices of those both willing and innocent. Progress makes no distinctions between sinners and saints. Thus it is fair. It cares little for whose blood oils its gears, and whose hands turn its wheels.” ~ Marquis Ludvig Von Braun

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


Henry stood slack jawed. Xavier fell backwards, tripping over a piece of the carriage as the world continued to shake and the beasts shrieks continued to resound through the valley. Henry watched as particles and pieces of mana shot off of the creature, impacting the countryside and spreading fire and destruction wherever they touched down. Every time it happened, the beat shrunk down. Eventually the creature disappeared behind a hillside as the angelic procession gave pursuit. Henry stood there for a moment, wondering what the hell had just happened.

Decisions:
1. *try to snap everyone back to attention*
2. *thank whoever the fuck is up in the clouds for not killing you*
3. *lose spaghetti*
4. (write in)

>>3898566
I might as well mention that the sun is about to go down.

>>3898566
Yo.

Did.

We.

Get.

Paid.

>>3898596
not yet

>>3898611
>>3898566
Henry's first thought should be
>Oh god oh fuck
Henry's second thought should be
>Get me plus everybody else to closest safety
Henry's third thought should be
>Fuck, I did not get paid yet, damn you giant monster thing
And then
>*try to snap everyone back to attention*

>>3898625
This, followed by evacuating survivors.

Sure as fuck ain't gonna fight while Angels have it under control

>>3898625
>>3898645
roll 1d100

Rolled 27 (1d100)

>>3899334

Rolled 12 (1d100)

>>3899334

Rolled 91 (1d100)

>>3899334

Rolled 3 (1d100)

>>3899334

>>3899824
mmmmmmm

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>>3899824

>>3898566
Henry panicked, he was in WAY over his head, he didn’t have anything to deal with that monstrosity, and even worse he hadn’t even been paid yet. Running wasn’t an option. Not when thirty gold was on the line. He began pacing around, desperately trying to calm himself down. He reached into his pouches, desperately searching for something, something very specific. He realized to his growing horror than he’d left his alcohol flask at home. He began to feel very very sick, the weight of the situation bearing on him. Werewolves, or zombies hordes, or what have you were one thing. But a beast that could take down an entire town and then swat an archangel out of the sky like a bug was another matter entirely.

“Henry?” Larry asked. “W-what do we do?”

“Ah, well… Xavier, you have a flask, right?” Henry asked.

“Well, yes, but this is hardly the tim-“

“GIVE IT HERE!” Henry commanded, his trembling hand outstretched.

Xavier stared at him in disbelief before reluctantly handing it over. Henry took a quick swig and a few deep breaths.

“Right… right… we haven’t been paid yet, so we need to make sure our employers are still around. Otherwise we’re getting the hell out of here.” Henry said, taking another drink.

“Well, the beast is heading away from the town, might be a good time to see what’s left.” Ophelia said. “I hope some of their research notes are out in the open.”

Henry took a third drink and noticed that the ground had stopped shaking. He figured that meant they were safe for the time being.

>>3903267
“Drinking at a time like this?!” Rosa said, disapproval evident in her expression. The woman’s hands were covered in blood, the lack of the driver behind her was all Henry needed to see to know the man was dead.

One less complication.

“We’re heading down there, we’re going to establish contact with the cult of progress and figure out exactly what is going on.” Henry said.

“Right.” Larry said. “Alright boys come on.”

Xavier moved closer, then said softly, “I hope you know what you’re doing, for all of our sakes. Is some coin really worth all this?”

“It’s your coin too.” Henry said. “And you promised to help us until the job was done, don’t go back on your word, if it means anything.”

Xavier’s eyes momentarily flashed red, but he said nothing.

“What are you doing drinking at a time like this?” Rosa demanded, forcefully trying to grab the flask from Henrys hand.

“It helps me focus!” Henry replied. “I need to keep calm right now, don’t go starting trouble, we need to survive this.” Henry demanded, clutching the flask in a death grip.

“I… ugh…” Rosa said, walking away in a huff. “We ARE going to have a TALK.” She added, through gritted teeth.

The cult of progress town was in ruins, the place had been utterly devastated. There was a group of mages, mercenaries, and other members of the Cult gathering in a small clearing outside of the town. The guards were all on edge, a few of them muttered about an attack, paladins and inquisitors. It scared the hell out of Henry. He couldn’t afford to have that kind of heat. He needed to find some sort of leadership.

Rosa immediately broke off and attempted to heal the injured. Henry realized she’d use up the remainder of her white mana and screw over the rest of them if she did that.

Decisions:
1. *try to stop Rosa*
2. *let her proceed*

>>3903268
>1. *try to stop Rosa*
Get her to stabilize them instead of fully healing them, there's more injured than she can heal, so triage is gonna be necessary.

>>3903268
this >>3903271
Triage protocol in play

>>3903271
>>3903291
roll 2d100, partial success possible.

Rolled 31, 61 = 92 (2d100)

>>3903293
FOCUS HENRY
YOU GOT YOUR FUCKING DRINK

Rolled 70, 44 = 114 (2d100)

>>3903293

>>3903309
>>3903295
70, 61, full success achieved

Henry rushed in front of Rosa, cutting the woman off and leaving the rest of his group behind. Larry grumbled about having to haul Charles around as everyone else slowly caught up.

“You can’t use your mana!” Henry exclaimed. “We need it right now, we need as much as we can save!”

“Are you insane?!” Rosa yelled. “THERE ARE PEOPLE DYING, HENRY, I’M GOING TO HELP THEM!” Rosa said. “You are NOT going to stop me!”

Henry grabbed onto Rosa’s wrist, as she struggled to break free an uneasy silence settled onto the others.

“Henry!” Rosa said, finally slapping the man and breaking free.

Henry stood in shock for a moment before regaining his composure.

“Rosa, we could die!” Henry said. “If you can’t heal us when we need you!”

“People are dying right now!” Rosa said, “I need to help them Henry!”

“Would you help them and let me die later on? Let any of us die?”

Larry tried to speak but failed. Xavier merely shook his head while Ophelia was just bored.

“I… no of course not… i…” Rosa said.

“Look, heal them, do what you can, but save your mana, save as much as you can, for me… for us, please Rosa.” Henry said.

>>3903392
Rosa bit her lip, nodded, then scurried away, leaving Henry standing there. Henry took a couple swigs from the flask before proceeding onward to a couple of tents that had been set up in the center of things.

“Henry what the hell?” Larry asked.

“We need to survive this, Larry, we can’t let our emotions get the better of us.”

“I agree, it makes no sense to help these people, especially when they would toss us aside in a heartbeat, I know them all too well.” Ophelia added.

“Turn not a blind eye from the needy, lest you be left on deaths door with only your past for company.” Xavier said. The man began heading away in the direction that Rosa had ran.

Henry shook his head. “Ophelia, Larry, try to wake Charles up, I might need my apprentice’s help. We might need an army depending on how things go. Wait out here and get it done.”

“Rodger.” Larry said.

“Right, stand back Larry.” Ophelia said. “Lay him down there… no there!”

Henry entered the tent, leaving the rest to their tasks.

>>3903396
Henry entered the tent to find a partially burnt man being tended to by a host of doctors and mages. The man coughed a couple of times and reached out towards Henry. Henry wracked his brain trying to figure out who it was.

“Ah… my appearance… ach…” The man said. “Moldov… we met at the village..” He continued.


“Don’t move sir, your condition is stable but delicate.” One of the mages said.

“Ach… so is this situation and here I am unable to even move…” Moldov said. “Even talking hurts… such a pain… Henry… come closer.” He said.

“Henry? I assume everything went well?” Another man asked.

“Who?” Henry asked.

“Ah, we spoke during the briefing, my name is Lev.”

“Oh, right, and Mark?”

“Didn’t make it… I tried to warn him that he shouldn’t have opened the damned cage.” Lev said.

“Henry… time is of the essence.” Moldov said.

“Right, what the fuck is going on?” Henry asked.

“We released… project firebird. No other choice, too strong a force to fend off.”

Decisions:
1. *try and convince Rosa to heal Moldov.*
2. “What is project firebird”
3. “You released something that could destroy the whole town?” “
4. “You aren’t about to ask me to kill the damned thing are you?! I don’t think you have nearly enough money.”
5. (write in)

>>3903430
>3. “You released something that could destroy the whole town?” “
>4. “You aren’t about to ask me to kill the damned thing are you?! I don’t think you have nearly enough money.”

>>3903440
night

>>3903430
2. “What is project firebird”
3. “You released something that could destroy the whole town?” “
4. “You aren’t about to ask me to kill the damned thing are you?! I don’t think you have nearly enough money.”

Ask if they want us to take this news back to their superiors... mabye we can get a reward for it

>>3903430
This >>3903813
What the FUCK is Project Firebird if it isn't a fucking literal dragon?

>>3903430
“What is project firebird?” Henry asked.

“We can’t tell you.” Lev said.

“Lev… we need to tell him, we need his help. I assume you contained the slime, correct?” Moldov asked between bouts of coughing.

“Yes, I managed to capture the queen alive.” Henry replied.

“Wondrous. I’m afraid we’re in no condition to give you your payment here, I’m afraid. But I will make sure you are paid, you have my promise.”

“So, project firebird… we were planning on using the child as a weapon…” Lev said.

“From the star, Lev.” Moldov said. “We’re going to need to terminate the project now. So it hardly matters if word spreads a bit.”

“The thing you saw before was a very, very powerful spirit bound to a small nine year old girl. Chuch Cathars found her wandering around the burned out wreckage of Andale. She was driven thoroughly insane and was muttering horrid things to herself. The Cathars decided to try and perform an exorcism which was an utter disaster. That’s when we managed to retrieve her for study. We found that the spirit is constantly consuming mana from any source it can find. The thing is pure hatred. We were trying to craft a method of control. We found containment to be fairly simple.”

“How did it do all of that? It would’ve taken all the mages in the town…” Henry said.

“We lost around a hundred during the invocation. A necessary sacrifice.” Moldov said.

>>3905139
“Once the spirit absorbs enough mana it starts a chain reaction, like a bomb going off. Right now the thing is likely drained. Our target would be a small girl dressed in fireproof clothing wandering barefoot across the countryside. I’d assume to the nearest leyline point…. Which would be in Esgrad Cemetery.” Lev continued.

“So you released it, knowing it would do all of this?!” Henry asked.

“Yes, and I would’ve done it a hundred times more. What was contained in that town would’ve destroyed the cult of progress if the church had gotten their filthy hands on it, Henry. I believe in the cause of our group, and I have the burns to prove it. We destroyed any evidence of our actions, actions which the world at large aren’t ready to accept. Without our work, the world would still be in a technological dark age. I won’t have it slide back because some inquisitors are scalp hunting.” Moldov continued, before breaking down into racking coughs.

“So that brings us back to you…” Lev said. “You will have our full support of course..”

“You want me to kill the thing?” Henry asked. “Are you fucking serious? I don’t think you have nearly enough money to-“ Henry started.

“Money, is NO object… Henry. You do realize you’re speaking to a nail, correct?”

“A nail?” Henry asked.

“A high ranking official in the cult, I’m serve directly under a very familiar nobleman. But that’s neither here nor there at this point.” Moldov said.

“We need to either capture or kill the girl, if the inquisition could dig through her memories… some of the things she’s been witness too would be a huge amount of trouble for us.” Lev said. “Look, we need to stop her before she gets to the leyline, and we’re probably going to need to fight off the inquisition to

>>3905142
do it. Right now we’re going to order most of our forces to scatter before the church forces can regroup.”

“Those fools have no clue what they’d be messing with if they tried to stop us.” Moldov said.

“What happens if the creature gets more mana?” Henry asked.

“It’ll attempt to sow as much destruction as it could, I’d imagine. Probably head towards the largest population center in the area, Rally I’d figure. It’d reduce the town to a smoldering crater before any church response could be mounted.” Lev said.

“Henry, if you can pull this off, money will be the least of the things we can offer you. You will attract the attention of VERY powerful players. Hell you might even be offered the position of a nail.” Moldov said.

“I heard you took down the abomination that had been terrorizing us for months.” Lev said. “If anyone can pull this off its you.”

Decision #1:
1. “Fine, I’ll do it.”
2. “No, I’m not going to risk me and my people’s lives over this.”
3. (write in)

Decisions #2 (if yes is selected):
1. “I want all of your forces under my command, how many people are we working with here.”
2. “I’m just going to use my people, it’ll draw far less attention.”
3. (write in)

>>3905145
>3. (write in)
THE FUCK

>>3905145
>3. (write in)
This is why no one likes you people

>>3905145
>3. (write in)
SERIOUSLY THE FUCK

>>3905145
>3. (write in)
Fucking hell.
We'll do it, but not to save your asses.
For all I'm concerned, yall are too stupid to do shit like this.
Fuck
You should at least have the decency to do this shit WAY THE HELL away from any people so if you FUCK UP LIKE THIS the only ones that'll die are yoo.

>>3905145
Gotta drag EVERYONE into your messes.

>>3905145
And just cus all the way to our new objective

>>3905145
>>3905148
>>3905152
>>3905156
>>3905160
>>3905177
>>3905178
So "yes", but also extreme amounts of cursing and shittalking on the way there. Don't forget lamenting that NOW his fucking hometown, with actual family who might just care about him, are in the line of fire. Henry will NOT forgive or forget this - if he had any positive views of Cult of Progress by this point, they'll be shattered here with this fiasco. He'll only see them as a source of money or knowledge now, pure fucking tools like the shitters they are. He'll probably tell Rosa she was right too, but she won't like it once she sees Henry so distraught.

>>3905544
Pretty much this

>>3905827
>>3905544
>>3905178
>>3905177
>>3905160
>>3905156
>>3905152
>>3905148
writing

>>3905145


“I understand you have your concerns-“ Lev began.

“NO FUCKING SHIT I DO. YOU’RE ASKING ME TO FUCKING FIGHT THAT THING?” Henry screamed.

“W-well, we’re am going to assist you the best we can.” Lev said. “And I doubt a nine year old girl could be any trouble for you after you managed to take down the ooze queen.”

“You expect me to TRUST YOU after you SACRIFICED hundreds of your own people?!” Henry yelled.

“They knew the risks!” Moldov shouted, before descending into a racking series of coughs.

“They knew the risks, Henry, and they knew what would happen. We all expected to die when the assault started. They brought angels, and an archangel at that, Henry. We stood no chance, we had no other choice.” Lev said. “I… I lost my wife, damn it.”

Henry paused as Lev desperately tried to keep himself together.

“We all believe in the cause of the Cult, Henry.” Moldov said.

“I don’t!” Henry said. “I’m not going to die for some lofty ideals. I’m NEVER going to die for something like that.”

“So what will you die for, Henry? Money? We have plenty of that.” Moldov said, “Do you need some privacy, Lev?”

“No… No I’m okay.” Lev said. “I can grieve later, there’s still too much to do.”

“I’ll do it, but it’s going to cost you, a lot.” Henry said, through gritted teeth. His animosity was extreme.

“Fine, we can discuss exact terms in a bit but right now we need to clear out of here.” Moldov said. “Henry, I’ll find some way to properly thank you once this is all over.”

“Just pay me a lot of gold, damn it. You’re all fucking insane.” Henry said.

“We’ll accompany you out, Henry.” Lev said.

Decision:
1. “stay the fuck away from me.”
2. “Fine, gather as many people as you can, lets get this finished.”
3. (write in)

>>3906434
>3. (write in)
Look at them as if a third arm is growing out of their foreheads as we leave.
"We'll do it ourselves, otherwise we might find ourselves a "necessary" lose to accomplish the goal."
While trying to sneer at them while having disgust on our face.

>>3906434
right, so I'm going to do a bit of an explaination for the cult of progresses actions.

It boils down to this:
1. the church forces were far more powerful than the cult could handle. The angelic force alone would've been more than enough, the rest was positively overkill
2. The facility didn't really have any other weapons or pieces it could play at the time, a good chunk of its force was dealing with the ooze problem
3. The monster, while incredibly dangerous, was considered a known factor. The fact that it dealt that much damage was not anticipated
4. there was a LOT of damaging research and other paperwork kept in the town. This was the main reason that the inquisition decided to attack it. This stuff could've very well allowed the church to destroy or take over the cult of progress which would've been an utter loss for them. The damages at this point in time, in comparison are minor considering this has been avoided.

If you have any further questions regarding this, feel free to ask. But given these circumstances the decisions of the cult of progress seemed sensible to me.

>>3906434
>>3906434
> 3. (write in)

Flash back to how we were used as a child, and question if bringing the girl back means becoming the people we hate the very most.

Realize that Rosa will want to save the girls spirit.

>>3906436
This. We don't believe in their cult, and if someone has to decide it might be best to lay the little girl to rest instead of returning her to them.

>>3906508
My problem isn't if these guys are willing to die for the cult, it's how willing they are for other people to also die for it.

>>3906676
Actually this might be a good way to segue Rosa into some of our darker past.

We had to make literal deals with devils to survive, we know first hand how bad possession is. That death is a sweet release. We can also point out that her hell lasted a night and she thinks god saved her, we took years to crawl out of our pit by ourselves. And we still believe somehow in people, mostly that they're kinda shitty a lot of the time. But we've also seen first hand things that nobody deserves, and goodness in places and people the Church wouldn't think to look and would reject out of hand even if they did simply because it doesn't fit in with their rules.

While dying for the Cult of Progress is just the same stupidity of the Church, at least they have one thing right in that people have to act to save themselves, not just hope they get lucky enough for a power above them to do it. They can save each other, too, but it's not right to give them an obligation afterwards.

Yeah, we get paid for what we do, but that's all negotiated before. When we decide to save someone, like the bug people, we don't demand they follow us afterwards. We take that responsibility on ourselves for our actions.

>>3906434
first this >>3906436
then on the way out after he has calmed down somewhat, within himself, Henry does this >>3906676
also I like this a lot >>3906715 even though it's less something for Henry to do and more for himself to think about, in regards to Rosa and the issue of his own hidden truths, and how to reveal that to her without her going full insane

>>3906436
>>3906508
>>3906676
>>3906715
>>3906810
reviewing then writing

>>3906434
Henry glared at the two men for a long time. He fought to stay calm and prevent any further incidents between them. As much as he might’ve despised their actions, he needed to stay in the cults’ good graces. He didn’t really want to lose an employer or even worse have to skip town.

“I understand that this is a difficult situation, Henry.” Moldov said.

“You ordered this, didn’t you?” Henry asked.

“Yes, and instead of running I did what I could to ensure as many people could get out of their town with their lives. Do you think I enjoy leading people to their deaths?”

“Yet you did it all the same.” Henry said.

“Such is the burden of leadership.” Moldov replied.

Henry was done talking. Moldov continued to stare at him even as Henry left the tent. He turned back and said plainly.

“I’m going to do this with my people alone. Otherwise we might become a necessary loss to accomplish the goal.” Henry chuckled to hide his utter disgust.

“Fine. Lev, stay behind and help everyone get out. I’m going to try and get to Avignon to explain what’s happened and hopefully rally some support, but we won’t get any until morning.”

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

>>3907358
Henry left the tent to find Alice sitting on the ground, praying. He glanced over to find Ophelia and Larry speaking to a now very awake Charles. Off in the distance he could see Rosa barking orders and cultists while Xavier acted as a protector of sorts. Henry figured that the cultists weren’t too keen on any church personnel.

Henry felt his thoughts drift to his time in the Lic’toron, dark times. He remembered just how willing the cultists were to sacrifice others, either for their own safety or power. He saw a lot of the same here, and hated it. A grouping of cowards trying to uphold their own idea of a greater good, instead of living for their own purposes. The church was much the same, so many of their stories about collective sacrifice.

Henry gathered up his people, and explained what had happened and what needed to be done. He took care to make sure Rosa would here the best possible version of events. She nodded when Henry explained the girl and what they would need to do. She glared at him all the same. She didn’t like this at all. He’d have to explain himself to her soon. He figured.

He watched as Charles sharpened his dagger throughout it all. He worried the boy relished the idea of combat and violence. Such foolish notions.

Henry thought about the girl. He was going to have to kill her, for what? To save the cult? He hated this so much, always children, always pointless. He turned to Rosa. She was praying, why? They were about to hunt down and kill a child, why was she praying?!

“She’s praying for the girl, for all the people who’ve died here.” Xavier said.

“What?” Henry sputtered.

“You were wondering, right?” Xavier responded. “When someone becomes monstrous, it’s the sworn duty of holy men to strike them down, and return their souls to god. The arguments center around what makes a man and what makes a monster. I think about it often.”

“I wonder what any of us are, then.” Henry said.

“I know what I am, Henry. I try to make peace with it, for I know I cannot change it. I would recommend much the same to you, rather than muddling through like Johnny tells you to. If you can maintain your humanity, being a monster isn’t the end of all things.”

Decision 1:
1. “Monsters need to be put down, or they’ll kill us all.”
2. “Don’t try to fucking lecture me.”
3. “What should I say to Rosa?”
4. (write in)

hopefully this is acceptable based on the votes

>>3907360
>4. (write in)
If you can maintain your humanity, being a monster isn’t the end of all things.
"I'm aware of that, I just don't want to hurt others along the way."
Nod towards Rose and charles

>>3907360
This >>3907369

>>3907628
>>3907369
writin

>>3907360
“I’m aware of that, I just don’t want to hurt other’s along the way.” Henry said, motioning his head towards Rosa and Charles.

“You seem to be perfectly fine hurting others, as long as they aren’t your people, Henry.” Xavier said, sitting down on a log and stretching. He scanned the horizon for a while before turning back to Henry to gauge his response.

“The hell does that mean.” Henry asked.

“You’ve killed plenty of people Henry. For money, I’ve heard the stories in both Celeste and Avignon. You’re plenty fine with killing those you view as scum.” Xavier said.

The dying sunlight bounced off the ground, shedding light on everything that had happened. The only other source of light were the still burning fires from the town.

Decisions:
1. “They’re hardly human at that point.”
2. “I do what I do to survive, nothing more.”
3. “I don’t go out of my way looking for trouble Xavier, I don’t start problems, I end them.”
4. “Keep talking about this and see where it leads you.”
5. “I don’t want to have this conversation right now.”
6. “You’re talking like Johnny, stop it.”

>>3907814
>3. “I don’t go out of my way looking for trouble Xavier, I don’t start problems, I end them.”
"What are humans but thinking animals?"

>>3907814
this >>3908127
When you become a monster, you simply become a different animal. When you stop thinking, you simply become dead meat.

>>3908393
>>3908127
writing

>>3907814
“I don’t go out of my way looking for trouble, Xavier. I don’t start problems. I end them.” Henry said.

“I believe that’s a fair assessment.” Xavier replied. “Regardless, take care that you don’t try to end the wrong problems.”

“I appreciate it but I’ve heard it all before, Xavier. Try living with Johnny for a few decades and you’ll get extremely used to church jargon.”

“So that’s it then? That’s all it is to you?” Xavier asked, incredulous. “The church is a living institution, to allow man to connect with the highest power. It allows us to transcend our animal nature.” Xavier continued.

Henry looked over the vampire. He looked a tad desperate when he said those words, like he was trying to convince himself more than Henry. Henry sighed, he could say nothing, but that would just leave the question hanging.

“We are just animals, thinking animals, but little more than that. When we become monsters, we just become different animals. When we stop thinking, we become little more than inert chunks of meat.” Henry said.

“NO!” Xavier yelled. Shocking Henry and causing all attention to turn to Xavier. “No…”

“I’m surprised you are so at odds with the Cult of Progress Henry. This rendering down of humanity to just animals is exactly what they preach. Look at the ruins of that town, look at the scattered bodies, if you want to see where that line of thinking leads! Humanity is not some random accident or some tool to be used!” Xavier yelled.

The man huffed for a bit before sitting down and settling down.

“What the hell was that about?” Larry asked.

“Getting into a heated argument about surprisingly little.” Henry said. “We’re heading out, you okay Xavier?” Henry asked.

“I’ll manage.” Xavier replied.

“You sure?” Alice asked.

“I’m fine Alice, thank you.” Xavier replied, after a moment of consideration.

Decisions:
1. Make a direct beeline for Esgrad Cemetary and set an ambush
2. Direct your search along the roads leading to the Cemetery
3. Head into the hills after the beast, it shouldn’t be too hard to track it down since you know exactly what you’re looking for.
4. (write in)

>>3908480
>1. Make a direct beeline for Esgrad Cemetary and set an ambush
Make an ambush BEFORE the cemetery.
Don't want to find out that she also has necromantic capabilities.

>>3908480
this >>3908609
it seems we triggered Xavier with that comment

>>3908991
>>3908609
writing

>>3908480
“We need to head toward Esgard Cemetary, prevent whatever the fuck is in that girl from gathering mana from the leyline.” Henry said.

“We should avoid even letting her get close, actually.” Ophelia said. “She’ll start gathering it as she draws close. The geist must be using it to expand in size and power temporarily. I know such things are possible with red mana but the strain on the body is usually too great. We can collect the corpse afterwards? Correct?” Ophelia asked.

“You will do no such thing!” Rosa said. “We will give her a proper burial once she’s been laid to rest. Not being able to give her a proper release is horrid enough, but let’s not compound things!”

“I happen to agree with Rosa. Burial, after we ensure the gheist has no further attachment, is the best method of disposal. Preferably in an unmarked grave. I don’t want the cult digging her up and desecrating her. I have no clue how they think they can get away with any of this.”

“No argument from me.” Alice said. “I just hope it’s just a husk, it’s going to be tough if there is still someone in there.”

“Savages, all the possibilities for research, wasted.” Ophelia muttered.

“Heretic.” Rosa shot back.

“Right so let’s not kill each other yeah?” Larry said, trying to ease the dispute.

“I think research is a good idea, Ophelia.” Charles quietly said to her. Henry was barely within earshot.

>roll 3d100

Rolled 2, 64, 41 = 107 (3d100)

>>3909085
AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA

Rolled 30, 89, 2 = 121 (3d100)

>>3909085
FUCK OFF FUCK OFF FUCK OFF FUCK OFF FUCK OFF FUCK OFF FUCK OFF FUCK OFF FUCK OFF

Rolled 65, 83, 90 = 238 (3d100)

>>3909085
REEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE

>>3909093
>>3909095
good thing I don't allow double dipping.

Rolled 31, 27, 15 = 73 (3d100)

>>3909085
>>3909091
Well fuck

>>3909102
>>3909091
unless anyone wants to lend their power for the spirit bomb, the crit fail remains active

2, 62, 41 (crit fail, pass, near fail)

>>3909108
writing

Rolled 84, 67, 36 = 187 (3d100)

>>3909085

>>3909085
The group departed immediately, leaving behind the burning wreckage of a hard to pronounce town. The Cultists continued to mill about as groups of them broke off and scattered into the countryside. Henry noticed a couple of angels circling a few miles away, likely trying to find the beast. They had no idea what to look for, a good thing too because Henry had no intention of trying to fight angels. He had enough close calls with the ooze queen.

The road ahead was barren, there were a couple scattered farms and forests, although nobody was about now that it was so close to night time. Henry shivered. He’d never actually been outside after the sun had gone down, at least outside of Celeste. Ghiests were flickering into being and he was sure he could see movement from a nearby field. He hoped it was a zombie or a Frank of some sort. Lord knew there was far worse lurking about.

Henry was handed a couple of glow runes by Charles. Henry thanked the boy and helped him hand them out to the rest of the group. With night upon them there was no avoiding using the runes. It would be horrifyingly bad if they strayed off the path and ended up in a swamp or a bog. Lord only knew what kind of horrors were lurking around. Avignon province was sure as shit not far flung but it wasn’t exactly a core province. There were still some unchecked dangers.


As they reached the halfway point Henry took the time to look around. The scenery was made up of hills broken up with cornfields. There was a small village nearby with smoke coming out of several chimneys. The inhabitants were likely hunkering down due to all the noise from before. Henry didn’t blame them, it was the normal move, rural cottages tended to offer quite a bit of defense. His thoughts were broken by the sound of horse galloping. He turned to find a squad of inquisitors bearing down on them. He panicked for a moment, turning to warn Xavier but the man had already started disappearing into a corn field. He was holding Alice, with one hand over her mouth. The woman squirmed before Xavier whispered something into her ear. The two managed to disappear before the Inquisitors could get a good look at them. Henry cursed and wished he’d had the foresight to do the same. There was no clean way out of this now.

Decisions:
1. Try to talk your way out of this, they don’t know who you are
2. Try to escape through the neighboring cornfield.
3. Try to escape through the nearby village
4. Attack the inquisitorial party (will gain a surprise attack)

>>3909183
>Try to escape through the neighboring cornfield.
THEY'LL FUCKING GANK US
THEY'RE ON A "LEAVE NO WITNESSES" PROTOCOL
IF THEY RECOGNIZE CHARLES AS ROYAL HEIR, THEY'LL USE IT AS AN EXCUSE TO FUCK US UP
FUCKING CORNFIELD JUKE THEM

>>3909183
>1. Try to talk your way out of this, they don’t know who you are
"Hello, could you be so kind as to point us in a direction where there isn't giant flaming monstrosities?"

>>3909195
OH GODS
I DIDN"T THINK OF THAT

>>3909195
that's uh, thats' been settled already

>>3909208
ah ok
>>3909183
fuck my vote in >>3909195, backing >>3909196 instead then

>>3909213
>>3909196
writing

>>3909183
Henry signaled to the others to hold still as the inquisitorial party approached. He grimaced as they circled their horses around them and a small stout man stepped up to greet them. Henry got the feeling that the man had been a militiaman or something similar based on his demeanor. Once you’d met one you’d met them all, he figured. The other two remained on their horses, glaring down at them. Henry didn’t entertain the idea of fighting them, that would go very badly. Inquisitors were one of the few things that scared the residents of undertown. Nobody wanted to have their door kicked in by the men and women in black.

“Hello there, my name is Inquisitor Barstow. We were wondering what exactly your business is. It’s already sundown you see, quite odd to see anyone traveling these roads at this hour..” Barstow said.

“Oh I think we all know what’s going on here.” A rough female voice called down from another one of the horses.

“You’ll have to excuse Inquisitor Agatha. She’s not exactly a people person.” Barstow said.

Charles glanced at them with a fearful expression. Barstow glanced at the child and smiled.

“Ah, I’m sorry if we frightened you lad, just doing our jobs y’see.”

“Did you say… Agatha… no…” Rosa muttered, glancing at Henry and back up at the horses. The woman was suddenly very skittish.

Decision:
1. “We were trying to get to the next town, actually. Nightfall hit us before we knew it.”
2. “I’m afraid that’s hardly your business, Inquisitor.”
3. “We heard the explosion and decided to seek shelter at a safer locale.”
4. “We were heading to a funeral that’s going to be held tomorrow.”
5. (write in)

>>3909254
>3. “We heard the explosion and decided to seek shelter at a safer locale.”

>>3909254
this >>3909257
"And we thought a direction AWAY from whatever must have been causing that was the prudent option."

>>3909738
YES

>>3909960
>>3909738
>>3909257
writing

>>3909254
“We’ve all heard the explosion from before, we felt the ground tremble, and we all decided to seek shelter at a safer locale.” Henry said.

“It’s incredibly dangerous out at this hour.” Barstow said.

“We realize, we felt it would make more sense to get further away from the noise than stay put. Is everything okay? Is it safe to go back to our homes?”

“I’m afraid not, I suppose we could escort you to the next village. Least we could do to help your healer friend over there.”

“B-bless you.” Rosa said.

Charles glanced at Henry nervously. Larry rolled his shoulders while Ophelia immediately began checking over her notes. Everything felt incredibly tense.

“Out of the question, Barstow!” Agatha said, slipping down from her horse.

“We need to keep our wits about us, Agatha.” Barstow said.

“Inquisitor Agatha.” Agatha said.

“Inquisitor Agatha.” Barstow said, sighing.

“It really is you isn’t it.” Rosa muttered.

“Of course it’s me!” the inquisitor sputtered.

Henry could feel the breath catch in his throat, what was she doing?!

“Sister superior, I know it’s been years but did you not recognize me?” Rosa asked.

“Oh for the last time it is Inquisitor… sister superior… I haven’t had that title in… Rosa?” The inquisitor asked. “What in the bloody blazes…”

“I uh… hi.” Rosa said.

“Getting mixed up into trouble as usual.” Agatha said, rubbing her temples.

“Five years we haven’t spoken and THAT’S how you decide to talk to me!?” Rosa asked.

“Ah… well I suppose we could have this conversation on the road then.” Barstow said.

“No Barstow, we’re leaving.” Agatha said. “I have nothing to say to this coward here.”

“C-coward… is this about what happened?” Rosa asked.

“Of COURSE it is, I won’t forgive you for it, not now not ever, Sister Rosa. You choose to let the Matron take all the blame, for everything, then ran with your tail between your legs. Don’t you DARE address me by my name, and don’t you DARE speak to me or I’ll throw you in chains so fast your head will spin do you understand me?!” Agatha yelled.

“Inquisitor we hardly have the time for this.” The third rider said.

“I agree, let’s leave these poor folks to the road and continue on, time is of the essence.”

Decision:
1. *ask Rosa what the fuck is going on*
2. *say nothing and get ready to make a break for it through the cornfield*
3. *write in*

>>3911100
>3. *write in*
Scowl at this Agatha
SCOWL

>>3911108
If she says anything about our scowl
WE HAVE WORDS TOO

>>3911100
Despite himself, despite every single thought in his brain SCREAMING, UTTERLY SCREAMING at him to stay calm and quiet, he scowled at the inquisitor. If he’d been is his right mind he’d have likely strangled himself. But NOBODY did that to his woman. Nobody.

Rosa was on the verge of tears and couldn’t even manage to look at Agatha. The woman hid behind Henry, using the man as a shield. He could feel her hands pressing into his back.

“Are you sure you’re not being too hard on her, Agatha?” Barstow asked.

“You weren’t there, Barstow. Does the cracked bell blaze ring a bell?”

“You were part of the hospital staff?” Barstow asked.

“Yes, second in command at the time. What a mess. Sister Rosa saved a lot of lives, but she failed when it came time to face the consequences for what we all did.”

“We all agreed!” Rosa replied

“I NEVER agreed.” Agatha said.

“Can we get this over with? I want to spend the night in an actual bed.” Ophelia said, whining.

Agatha stopped for a moment, stared at Ophelia, and scowled.

“Do I know you from somewhere?” Agatha asked.

Decision:
1. *it’s time to leave*
2. *surprise attack*
3. *make a break for it through the cornfield*
4. write in

>>3911205
>4. write in
"Probably another person you're gonna try to pass blame on. Lets go people!"

>>3911207
The lets go people is to our group, seeing as we've already been dismissed.

>>3911207
hilarious

>>3911243
Look down our nose at her, and snort and look away as we ride away.

>>3911205
These >>3911207 >>3911294

>>3911601
>>3911294
roll 2d100 (for comedic effect, I promise)

Rolled 17, 95 = 112 (2d100)

>>3911818
I wonder if with a high enough roll we get Rosa's mood to improve somewhat?

>>3911826
yes

Rolled 40, 64 = 104 (2d100)

>>3911818

Rolled 86, 29 = 115 (2d100)

>>3911818

>>3912359
>>3911886
>>3911826
86, 95 posting tomorrow!

>>3911205
“Probably another person you’re going to try and pass blame on.” Henry said.

Agatha immediately stared the man down, in response Henry looked down his nose at her.

“Agatha, perhaps its best if we don’t continually drag our order’s name through the muck.” Barstow asked.

“Feh.” Agatha said, wincing.

Was that a sore subject? Henry would have to ask around.

“Fine, you’re right, I can’t get bogged down by the past. Rosa, I don’t blame you for what happened I blame you for being a coward. Maybe one day I’ll be able to forgive you but today isn’t that day. Good luck, I wish you safe travels.” Agatha said, before hopping back up onto her horse.

Henry watched as the inquisitors rode off into the distance. He snorted and spat onto the ground once they were far enough away.

“Great job Henry. I was actually getting nervous there.” Ophelia said.

“Huh?” Henry asked.

“Well on account of her being a wanted cri-“ Larry started, before Henry managed to clasp a hand over his mouth.

“What the fu-… oh right… Rosa.” Larry said, chuckling nervously. He went over to help Alice and Xavier as the duo returned from their hiding spot.

“Good work smooth talker.” Alice said, half sarcastically. “Luckily they have more on their plate than we do. Seems their forces are all scattered about.”

“Y-yeah.” Henry said. He felt a pair of arms wrap around his torso and found they were Rosa’s, white robes and all.

“Thanks Henry. I didn’t think I’d ever see her again.. and she still hasn’t’ forgiven me… I… I guess its deserved.” Rosa said.

“Never blame yourself for the past.” Charles said. “It’s already happened and there isn’t any use changing it.”

“Who told you that?” Henry asked.

“You did!” Charles said.

Henry smiled but screamed inwardly.

Decision:
1. *talk to someone* (write in)
2. *Head to Esgard cemetary*
3. (write in)

>>3915002
>3. (write in)
Shake head, and sigh loudly.
Then
>2. *Head to Esgard cemetary*

>>3915002
>“Never blame yourself for the past.” Charles said. “It’s already happened and there isn’t any use changing it.”
>“Who told you that?” Henry asked.
>“You did!” Charles said.
>Henry smiled but screamed inwardly.
>("My adopted son who is the royal heir is already using my own words against me. I don't know if I should be proud or horrified. Probably both. Yeah.")
LMAO
backing >>3915014 but also
>*talk to someone* (write in)
Xavier. Tell him no hard feelings, and that he's already a better man than anybody "similar" could be. It's less Henry being genuinely remorseful for what he said (because he was right) and more him trying to turn it around by motivating Xavier with it. Vamp church guy is actually not that bad.

>>3915025
"oh fuck it worked too well"
>>3915014
writing

>>3915002
Henry shook his head and sighed loudly, it was way too late at night for any of this shit. He watched as a couple of ghiests flew overhead and shuddered. They needed to get moving. As the group set off, Xavier fell behind everyone else. Even Charles was keeping pace well enough, and Henry knew enough about people to know something was off.

“Hey.” Henry said.

“Hello.” Xavier said.

“Look about before, its fine, in fact I’m happy you got yourself and Alice out of danger. I don’t mind.” Henry said, trying to clear the air.

“No, its just… when I was with the Cathars, we always looked up to the inquisition, the church elites. Now they’d strap me to the wall of dawn if they caught me. Its rather humbling and terrifying.” Xavier responded.

“Well, they’d probably hang the lot of us if they caught us. So I can sympathize.” Henry said.

Xavier stared at Henry for a moment, before sighing.

“Look, you’re a good person Xavier. You’re a better man than most.” Henry said.

“I wish that wasn’t the case Henry.” Xavier said. “But I don’t need the flattery. I’m fine, truly. Believe it or not I still believe in the church, their message, and their people.”

“I don’t know what to even say to that, given everything.” Henry said.

“People don’t make sense, Henry.” Xavier responded. “I was told that by the man who made me into this. I’ve started to realize just how true it is. Of the two of us, you trust other people far less. That hardly makes any sense.”

Decisions:
1. “Yeesh I didn’t expect this conversation to go this way.”
2. “Is that how you show you care?”
3. “The church is a buncha insane megalomaniacs and crazier angels. I don’t know what you see in em.”
4. (write in)

>>3915025
still a bit confused what you're referencing

>>3915095
>4. (write in)
"Inquisitors doing shitty things and vampires doing good things, what a time to be alive."
Have shit eating grin.

>>3915095
This >>3915102

>>3915102
>>3915174
writing

>>3915095
“Inquisitors doing bad things and vampires doing good things, what a time to be alive.” Henry said, smiling widely.

“It almost makes you believe those madmen saying we live in the end times.” Xavier replied.

The two shared a quick laugh before Henry returned to his rightful spot leading the group. He kept his ears peeled but fortunately it seemed the angelic runes dotting the road were in a good state of repair. Sticking to the main road had its benefits. Sure the things weren’t all that strong, but they sure as hell made Henry feel safer.

The rest of the trip went smoothly until they actually arrived at the cemetery. The entire thing had been dug up recently. Hundreds of graves had been disturbed. Henry swore under his breath. It seemed the angelic runes had begun to fail in other cemeteries too. The rest of the group fanned out while he studied the graves. He could tell it was done by someone fairly skilled, and based on the aetheric residue left behind it hadn’t happened all that long ago. Probably right after the sun had gone down. He wondered where exactly all those corpses had gotten off to, and told everyone else to stay alert.


Decisions:
1. *set up the ambush, and keep an eye out for the necromancer or necromancers that caused this.*
2. *stay well away from the cemetery, it leaves a greater risk of the girl slipping through but you don’t wanna risk having another fight.*
3. *write in*

>>3915307
>3. *write in*
Check to see if there's any necromancy nearby, don't want to be ambushed while we set up an ambush.
Also might need to let the church know the cemetery's been robbed.

>>3915307
This >>3915326 because we are witnesses and not perpetrators. We are innocent people who came upon this horrid crime against humanity, and we are reporting it like good little churchgoers. :^)

>>3915326
>>3915307
Supporting!

>>3908480
Damn, Xavier. What does he have against being an animal, or against death being an end.


Those things are why it's so important to choose to act like we aren't animals, why it's so evil to sacrifice others. Being an animal is just a fact. Being a person is a choice, and you can be just as much a monster if you're in a Church or a Cult so long as you're a monster by their rules. Having some God tell you otherwise doesn't make it true, and claiming that it's for the good of other people doesn't make it okay.

Just because we agree with the CoP about the facts, that doesn't mean we agree about what that means.

And we are well aware that we've done monstrous things to survive, but that's our guilt to carry. Like a fucking Vampire can't relate to that, or that talking a short walk on a sunny day is the cowards way out, and killing his sense of self by hiding beneath a gods skirts is the same.

Xavier makes the same choice as anyone else, and he's the one to make it, to not be a monster and that's something we respect him for. We just don't think he needs the excuse of the Church to make the choice, because those Angels would fucking burn him no matter what.

Thoughts for later conversations.

>>3916381
Based and redpilled

>>3916418
Just saying. These aren't simple questions with one line answers.

If Xavier wants to have faith, if that gets him through the day, that's fine. Whatever lets him be a good . . . Person.

Just confusing why he'd pick something that hated him to believe in, like there aren't any other options. I mean, really, does he even believe in the actual church or does he believe in the meaning that he, himself, created in it because honestly the Church is fucking Dildos and Jagoffs and he seems way better than them.

>>3915326
>>3915416
>>3916361
>>3916381
>>3916418
>>3916459
reviewing

>>3915326
>>3915416
>>3916361
roll 1d100 to inspect

>>3916459
its really all he has to believe in. He was a former Cathar you realize.

Rolled 6 (1d100)

>>3917157

Rolled 76 (1d100)

>>3917157

>>3917160
BEVELIEVE U THE ME THAT BELIEVES IN U.

KEK.

Rolled 44 (1d100)

>>3917157

Rolled 40 (1d100)

>>3917157

>>3917247
oh lord that could've been bad
>>3917264
>>3917439
>>3917501
76 is the high roll, writing later

>>3915307
Henry took the time to investigate the necromantic work that had been performed. He ignored Rosa’s state of complete distress and inspected the dug up graves. From what he could tell the earth had been shifted through the use of a couple complicated runic patterns based on the soil displacement. He figured the spell had been cast about an hour and a half ago and based on the state of the unopened graves he figured the perps would be back. Normally this wouldn’t be a problem. If he was by himself he’d simply raise the rest of the corpses and then parlay with the necromancer or necromancers once they’d arrived. Perhaps seal it off with a contract. With Rosa and Xavier here however, that wasn’t a workable solution.

He sighed and watched Rosa scurry about trying to resantificy the graves or whatever the hell she was doing. Xavier was being moopy. Larry was attempting to cheer the man up but all that seemed to be doing was creating homicidal urges in Xavier.

“So what’s the status?” Ophelia asked.

“We’re likely to get company in the next hour or two, so we need to hope that we get lucky and the girl arrives within that time frame.” Henry said.

“Well I’ve set up a scrying circle with Alice. We should be able to observe whatever comes within a mile and a half of the cemetery unless it has cloaking spells. Would necromancers be likely to utilize them?”

“They’d only worry about stealth when they actually raise the dead. A horde isn’t going to stay hidden and if they’re traveling without undead then there’d be no point.” Henry explained.

“If they arrive with a few Franks?” Ophelia asked.

“Then that’d be a problem we can deal with. They wouldn’t expect anyone here in the first place. So I doubt they’d be prepared for combat. Especially after things went smoothly for them the first time.” Henry said.

“You assume people aren’t as paranoid as you, interesting.” Ophelia said.

Decisions: (select three)
1. Prepare the ambush and utilize the scrying circle to prepare for unexpected guests
2. Have Rosa attempt to fix the runes in the cemetery
3. Lead a patrol into the surrounding countryside (will allow you to gain advantage if you decide to retreat or launch a surprise attack)
4. Prepare a mortar rune spell with Ophelia, Leave alice at the scrying circle
5. Get a necromancy spell ready with your apprentice, you really don’t want to use it but it’d be good to have a backup plan. You’ll cross the bridge with Rosa when you come to it.
6. Have Ophelia try to draw mana from the leyline for trap spells.
7. Have Alice perform aerial surveillance (will have lessened effectiveness on the scrying spell)

>>3918513
>1. Prepare the ambush and utilize the scrying circle to prepare for unexpected guests
>2. Have Rosa attempt to fix the runes in the cemetery
Let her know that if it's too difficult, we'll still be informing the proper authorities of this.
>3. Lead a patrol into the surrounding countryside (will allow you to gain advantage if you decide to retreat or launch a surprise attack)

gonna be gunning to end this case in the next couple weeks. Seems I won't be able to close out this arc by year end, ah well.

>>3918513
1. Prepare the ambush and utilize the scrying circle to prepare for unexpected guests

2. Have Rosa attempt to fix the runes in the cemetery

Get Chuck to help if he can, watch if he can't.

6. Have Ophelia try to draw mana from the leyline for trap spells.

Save our mana during the fight. Synergizes with scrying as we can plan the placement better as well as integrating it into the ambush.

Ideally we can separate the Necro from his Franks and pull off a decapitation attack to take him out.

>>3918513
This >>3918527

>>3918527
>>3918903
roll 3d100

Rolled 30, 98, 64 = 192 (3d100)

>>3919134

Rolled 67, 3, 86 = 156 (3d100)

>>3919134

Rolled 8, 93, 82 = 183 (3d100)

>>3919134
No fucking crit fails after those good ones

>>3919225
>>3919135

67, 98/3 (FIRST CONTESTED CRIT), 86

>>3919272
ARE YOU EXCITED FOR IT?!?

>>3919814
>>3919272
WRITING BAAAAYBEEEEE

>>3918513
Henry left Ophelia and Alice alone to do their thing, which was mainly sitting in a circle and saying very little. Apparently having more people involved made the spell easier the manage and increased Ophelia’s range. Henry shook his head and rubbed his temples. Doing anything on that scale would be liable to make his head burst, or give him a massive headache. A simple trace was all his mental fortitude could withstand on a good day. He had no idea how Ophelia or Alice managed it, and Alice saying things were much too easy for her was not helping Henry’s mood. Both of them were freaks in their own way. At least with Alice it was all on the outside. He much preferred that kind.

Alice’s illusionary spell flickered occasionally as it interacted with the scrying circle. Ophelia said that the coast was clear. Henry, and Xavier set off. He didn’t want to leave a damned vampire alone with the women and he sure as shit didn’t want to leave the woman alone. While sending off Larry with Xavier would’ve been the surefire safest option, he doubted Larry could manage something like scouting for escape routes well enough. Running and cowardice weren’t really in that man’s vocabulary. Henry of course wasn’t around during Larry’s run in with Del Mar, or perhaps his view would’ve been a tad different.

The plan was simple, scout out the surrounding countryside and find good routes to flee if it came to it. Henry sighed as they took the time to look around.

“You know Henry, I never expected things to end up like this.” Xavier said.

“What, with the monster?” Henry asked.

“No, well of course, but I didn’t expect things to go so smoothly with your people. I got to feel like I was part of a family again. It reminded me of the feeling of brotherhood from the Cathar order. I, I wanted to thank you for that. I didn’t expect to find it here of all places.”

“Well you lock yourself in that dusty tomb underground all the time, its little wonder.” Henry said, kicking some brush aside and happening upon a partially abandoned road. This would do nicely.

“I do that to keep others safe, Henry.” Xavier said.

>>3921475
>T
“Have you lost control in the past, Xavier, and be honest with me.” Henry said.

“yes, I have. I’ve done unforgiveable things, Henry, all for blood.” Xavier said. “I have to live with what I’ve done. I try to tell myself that it was only the scum of the earth I’ve killed, criminals or vagabonds. People nobody cared about or would miss.” Xavier said.

“Sounds like you were just taking out the trash.” Henry replied.

“That’s all it is to you, isn’t it. People who stand in your way are just obstacles to cut down, right?”

“That’s just how it is, Xavier. It’s a dog eat dog world and I’m going to be the biggest dog.” Henry said.

“They’re people, no matter how twisted or hate filled or vile, they’re still people and they can still find redemption through god.” Xavier pleaded.

“Don’t you fucking start with that.” Henry said. “They make their bed, they lie in it. I’m not about to risk my neck for some random.”

“I wish I could be so uncaring.” Xavier said. “You would’ve made a much better vampire than me I think.”

“Xavier, cut it out or you’re going to have an accident.” Henry said, his voice becoming darker for a moment.

“What?” Xavier asked.

>>3921477
“Xavier, if you keep going down this little road, you’re going. to. get. Hurt.” Henry said, drawing out every word, spitting out every word. A bit of dark mana pulsed off Henry as he uttered the words.

Xavier, despite himself, shivered. The man who had just spoken wasn’t Henry, or rather wasn’t completely Henry. He still smelled like the man, and Xavier was certain the man’s blood would’ve tasted the same, but there was something vile lurking under there, something dark. He hadn’t ever felt even a tinge of fear since he’d changed, but that night out in the dark countryside, he learned he was still capable of terror.

Charles busied himself with Rosa. The woman was trying to bring an angelic rune back to life but was having no luck whatsoever. Charles could tell she was beating herself up over it. He wanted to help.

“How can I help?” He finally asked.

“Oh bless you Charles, but it seems that these things really are not working. I fear for the future, both for the living and dead. I can’t get them to work. I don’t know what’s wrong. I thought my faith was strong but I don’t know.” Rosa said.

The woman was shaking with a nervous energy, fearful of the implications.

“Look, Rosa, maybe I could help.” Charles said, placing his hand on the rune. He could feel an emptiness inside. He started flowing mana into it.

He woke up in a void. He tried calling out for help but nobody answered. Then there was a small trickle, then a flood, of souls, up towards the not sky. In the not sky, there was a not eye. Charles watched as the not eye opened, revealing rows and rows and rows of-

He came to in a cold sweat. He breathed heavily, not quite understanding what he’d seen. Rosa had enveloped him and was trying to soothe him. He turned towards the rune and realized it had been activated, but how? He turned towards the rest of the runes and watched as they too sprung to life. But he wouldn’t have had nearly enough mana to do so. He gulped, what the hell had he seen.


Henry and Xavier returned a bit later. Henry nodded at the runes and congratulated Rosa for the good work, until the woman revealed it had actually been Charles. She explained what had happened and Henry immediately rushed over to make sure the boy was okay.

Decision, Charles:
1. *tell Henry everything*
2. “I got it working, it’s okay.”
3. “I just had a moment like Ophelia I think.”
4. “Nothing’s wrong, Rosa’s just overreacting.”
5. (write in)

>>3921480
>5. (write in)
1. *tell Henry everything*
Hell, tell rosa
That shit is fuckin spooky

>>3921480
this >>3921492

>>3921492
>>3921480
Supporting

>>3921480
> 1. *tell Henry everything*

Naturally, Henry is Charles Beard In The Sky Dad.

>>3921477
> “Don’t you fucking start with that.” Henry said. “They make their bed, they lie in it. I’m not about to risk my neck for some random.”

Fucking liar. Looking at Charles, and Alice and the Bug Kids. The game literally started out with that.

Also Larry, and Xavier to a degree.

It's not like Henry goes out of his way to fuck with people either, it's just that bad dudes keep starting shit and leaving them alive to get revenge is shockingly naive, not to mention suicidal.

Maybe when we meet another monster like the Faerie Queen that's also reasonable and *keeps their word* we can shove it in Xaviers face.

Seriously, I'd ask what crypt he's been locked away in all these years to not have seen the ugly truth but we know the actual crypt we found him in.

He can say it's evil of us to kill the killers, but that's some cold shoulder to their future victims because we didn't want their blood on our hand.

Now, I know that's similar to the Church's views on sin, but the difference is that Henry doesn't judge morals, he just eliminates threats.

>>3921480
It seems pretty clear that Xavier sees himself in those criminals, but the difference is that he didn't hurt innocents, and even then he found a way to stop himself. Who knows, maybe if we met him then we would have killed him. He can't say that's not something the current him wouldn't wish for, right? That he had been stopped before doing those "horrible" things?

So really we just save bad dudes a life of unbearable guilt if they ever come to terms with their crimes.

Or unlife like what Xavier is not living.

Anyways that's between him and himself. Not like we're gonna kill Xavier for what he was in the past, we ain't a cop and it won't bring anyone back anyways.

Getting really tired of Xaviers shit though, and if he wants to tear himself apart all the time because of his guilt that's one thing. It's stupid, but it's his right. If he wants to start tearing down us, then he can fuck right off because we don't have to sit here and be called family one moment and a monster the next.

Maybe he should talk to Johnny, someone from his precious church who spent his time killing criminals just like Xavier did, but you know, God said it was cool so that makes it different. Accepting reality doesn't seem to be doing it for Xavier so maybe Hypocrisy will work for him.

>>3922165
>>3922161
>>3922157
>>3921852
>>3921492
writing tomorrow

>>3923313
Just saying, if anyone has something in common with the cult of progress it, it's Xavier. Henry might kill to save himself, or others, but at least he doesn't sacrifice innocent people simply for his ideal.

Xavier, preferring to let criminals hurt other people so long as he doesn't have to get his hands dirty. CoP, willing to butcher an entire town to "save" people by not facing the consequences of their actions. Funny how both seem opposed, but the one thing they share is that other people, innocent people, are the ones dying.

>>3923621
Mind you what characters say =/= reality or even what they really think.

>>3922157
>>3921852
>>3921593
>>3921492
just collecting the votes together for reference

>>3923940
That's why it isn't greentexted.

Still.

Xaviers being kinda a cunt.

>>3924668
Xavier is worrying about eternal damnation for being a vampire, instead of being judged for his actions n shit.

Rolled 1 (1d3)

>>3922165
Charles told Henry everything. Henry listened to him in private and then stopped him when he went to try and tell everyone else. Charles noticed the man looked a bit shaken. But that couldn’t be possible, right?

“Charles, we can discuss this when we get back to safety and when everything is calmed down. We can’t afford to have people panic. Especially the religious nuts.” Henry said.

“But what does it mean?” Charles asked.

“Charles, I don’t know, and right now we have bigger things to worry about.” Henry said. “If that girl gets into this cemetery then we’re going to die. If we manage to stop her then we’ll be saving people okay?”

“You mean we’ll bet in the Cults good graces.” Charles said.

“…Yes.” Henry said.

“You don’t need to lie to me Henry.” Charles said, “I want to be strong like you too! You don’t need to be ashamed! If we do this you’ll be much stronger, right? You’ll have more power?”

Henry shook his head and sighed. Of course the kid would think like that, after watching him for this long.

“I just want to survive Charles.” Henry said.

“Okay Henry.” Charles said, flashing the man a wry smile. Henry hated it.

Larry, Xavier, get ready. Ophelia, any updates?

“Angelic patrol. Three of them.” Ophelia said. “Don’t seem to be approaching the cemetery and their route is all strange. I think they’re just searching for the beast.”

“Right, if the necromancer’s show up, we make a fuckton of noise, if the girl shows up we do this quietly.”

>>3925231
“Uh, I see something on the road. Doesn’t feel like a girl, full of red mana.” Ophelia said.

“Looks like a girl.” Alice added.

“We got her. Which road?” Henry asked.

“Northwest. She’s moving as fast as a horse, not really sure how.” Ophelia said.

“Fucking hell they didn’t tell us anything about this.” Henry muttered.

“Maybe if you’d let that scientist come with us he’d have explained.” Ophelia shot back.

“Shut up.” Henry said.

“So shall we get this bit of unpleasantness taken care of?” Xavier asked, standing up and stretching. “Rosa, you know the correct rites to read?”

“Of course I do. I memorized the rites to give the possessed.” Rosa said. “I just hope we can find a place for her to rest peacefully.”

Henry grimaced. He was eighty percent sure the cult would politely ask for the body back. He’d have to make a note of where they buried it.

Decisions:
1. *head out to intercept the girl* (write in who you bring)
2. *set an ambush near the cemetery*
3. *try to draw in the angels and let them deal with it* (risky with current party and you’ll probably lose access to the body)
4. (write in)

>>3925251
>2. *set an ambush near the cemetery*
But figure out how to get the angel's attention for in case it fails.
Could we do the old rope tripping thing since she's running so fast?

>>3925251
This >>3925257

>>3925251
We don't have piano wire do we?

>>3925297
>3925297
Cause if we did, we could hang that at neck height and let her run full tilt into it.

>>3925283
>>3925257
>>3925297
roll 3d100

Rolled 64, 11, 8 = 83 (3d100)

>>3925359

Rolled 32, 51, 68 = 151 (3d100)

>>3925359
watch me critfail again like I do all the time because the faggot /qst/ dice is rigged against me
here I go

>>3925360
>>3925361
All average passing
Nice

>>3925361
>>3925360
no insta decapitation

64/51/68

>>3925369
>no insta decapitation
Sad
But she'll be tripped and then we run to her as she's tumbling and we bludgeon her right?

>>3925251
“Right, everyone set in that thicket near the cemetery.” Henry said.

“Is it wise to cut it that close?” Xavier asked.

“It’d be much worse if she somehow slipped by us.” Henry countered. “We can just chuck bomb runes at her. If you’re worried about her slipping away.”

“Please don’t. It’ll be much harder to put her to rest if she is mangled.” Rosa said, steadfastly.

“FIGHT TIME!” Larry said, excitedly. “Just wish it didn’t have to be some girl. Makes me feel bad about it.”

“Don’t, just cut her head off so we can go home already. If it weren’t for the slimes this entire trip would’ve been pointless.” Ophelia said.

“Thanks for the support!” Larry replied.

“I… sure.” Ophelia said.

“Those two are weird.” Charles said.

“Yep, peas in a pod.” Henry added.

The group settled into the nearby brush and got to work. Henry began laying down wire between trees in the path. It wasn’t perfect but he hoped it’d get the job done. They decided against stringing active light runes up and settled for having a bunch on the road that Ophelia would activate when they sprung the trap. Everyone was in place, Charles even had his small dagger ready in the unlikely event he’d need it, everyone except Alice.
The woman had refused to help again, and while Rosa kept calm this time, he could tell that this was going to be a running trend. For whatever reason Charles seemed sympathetic to the woman, which struck Henry as odd, no matter.

Decisions:
1. *talk some sense into her*
2. *ignore her, she wouldn’t be much use anyway, blue magic or not*
3. (write in)

>>3925444
>2. *ignore her, she wouldn’t be much use anyway, blue magic or not*
We'll talk to her later.
Probably relegate her to just normal business like making runes at home base from now on.

>>3925444
This >>3925456

>>3925257
>>3925444
I thought we were gonna lay out a rope to trip her?

>>3925546
>>3925531
>>3925456
writing, and its already laid out

>>3925586
tomorrow

>>3925444
Henry sighed, waving to stay put and let the bug woman sit this one out. Maybe he’d have a conversation with her, continue to use her as just a mere scout, or maybe he’d just permanently bench her. Whatever he did it could wait.

The smell of smoke and flame hit everyone at the same time, Henry noticed that there was quite a bit of smoke rising from the nearby fields. He saw something sending off a good deal of red mana and making its way quickly towards them. As it drew closer he could make it out better. A girl hovering off the ground, singing a lullaby as flames and heat emitted from her. She was dressed in regular clothing and had black wavy hair trailing behind her. Several elementals trailed around her, balls of living mana and energy with basic levels of intent. Henry watched as she smacked into the ropes and the ropes went up in flames. The second she hit the ground flames licked up from it and a horrifying wail emerged from her mouth.

Henry covered his ears and managed to get the signal off to attack, it was time to roll.

>Roll 2d100 for sneak attack

Rolled 29, 49 = 78 (2d100)

>>3927749
AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA

Rolled 96, 34 = 130 (2d100)

>>3927749
>>3927789

>>3927800
>>3927789
naicu

96(crit)/49

>>3927749
Ophelia immediately sprang into action, sending bolts of blue mana to neutralize the elementals circling the girl. This proved overwhelmingly successful as the elementals were popped one after another. Ophelia clenched her fists and struck a triumphant pose as the aura of heat and flame around the girl was also done away with. Henry, Xavier, Rosa, Charles, and Larry wasted no time, springing upon the girl in a heartbeat.

Larry used haste to reach her in a heartbeat. Planting his leg over her head yet hesitating when the girl began to sob. Xavier reached him next, drawing his sword up and waiting for Rosa’s prayer. The woman began to read off memory and the girl’s screams echoed louder.

“Mr Nubbsy where are you?!” She asked.

“May your tortured soul find rest.” Rosa said, biting her lip midway to try and strengthen her resolve.

“What the fuck are we doing.” Larry muttered.

“I’ll do it.” Charles said. “If you can’t then I’ll do it.”

“You don’t want that kinda responsibility child.” Xavier replied.

Henry watched as the girl kicked and screamed. He hated this, half of him was acting logically, saying how the best way to do this would be to simply slit her throat, how too much damage to her body would cause the cult’s appreciation to turn sour. However the kid evoked some other memories in him.

She wasn’t supposed to be talking. They’d said she was comatose, not able to even feed herself without the cults help. Had that been a lie? This had to be the right girl. That much was obvious. But they were about the kill her.

“Stop please! I need to, I need to get to the paradise!” The girl continued.

“My leg’s getting hot here!” Larry complained.

Decision:
1. *tell Charles to end it*
2. *Tell Ophelia to cast a sleep spell on the girl*
3. *Wait this out*
4. *end her life yourself*
5. (write in)

>>3927895
>*start having flashbacks of your brother*
>*start saying the same things as back then*
>*end her life yourself*
>*try not to cry in front of your team*
>*cry a lot like the broken young man you are*

>>3927902
At least we got Rosa and Charles with us to pull ourselves together after this. And at least this little girl won't suffer anymore. And she'll probably be able to get somewhere better than this shitty world you live in, that allows for these things to happen to people who don't deserve it.

>>3927902
I'll support this mental breakdown

>>3927909
>>3927907
roll1d100 to keep it together

Rolled 67 (1d100)

>>3927910

>>3927911
passed, writing tomorrow

Rolled 82 (1d100)

>>3927960
Fuck that I'm gonna roll a crit fail

>>3928254
God DAMN it

>>3928254
high roll of 82, Henry is a-okay

>>3927895
Xavier advanced, pulling his long sword up with intent to bring it down on the girl’s head. The vampire hesitated. That was all Henry needed to see, he had to do this himself.

Henry grabbed Xavier’s wrist and shook his head once the man had spun around. He wasn’t going to let anyone else do this, he had to do this. He needed to do this right, had to do this right. He looked to Rosa who meekly nodded. The woman was uncomfortable, probably for the best. Henry wondered how calm he looked. Nobody should’ve looked ready to do this. He grasped at his short sword. The thing was still sharp, he’d made sure before leaving today, and he doubted a few slimes could’ve dulled the blade. He slid it out of its handle and grabbed a twig off the ground. He checked to make sure the blade was still sharp, he couldn’t let the girl suffer, not this time, not again.

“Henry!?” Larry asked. He was desperately trying to keep himself balanced on top of the girl. The girl was displaying levels of strength that should’ve been impossible and the man was actively fighting with her. Henry had no more time, he had to act. Xavier began to advance and then hesitated.

Ophelia began blocking rogue spurts of red mana even prevented a couple of spells from being formed by whatever was inside… controlling the girl. Henry palmed the handle of his sword a couple times and breathed. The same breathing exercises he did to calm himself, to block out everyone but the torturing he had to perform. He looked down at his brother, the poor thing, barely clinging to life. Henry snapped back to reality a moment later, and brought his sword down on the girls neck with all of his might. There was an ear piercing shriek, a barely contained explosion of red mana, and then quiet.

Henry fell back, his sword sticking out of the ground and coated with fresh blood, gushing from the neck of the once living girl. Henry gasped for air. The corpse didn’t even phase him, nor did the blood or the act itself. But for a moment he’d gone back to the man he had been. He’d had to, there was no other way to commit such an act for him.

>>3929791

Henry bit his lip took a couple deep breaths, and then turned away, leaving the group to wonder what had happened. Henry headed back for the cemetery, not really thinking what he was doing. Larry and Xavier tried to follow him but a cold glare stopped them both in their tracks. He couldn’t have them see him break down.

He found a nice outcropping with stone mausoleums to cry near. He punched a piece of stonework until it shattered. Yet he couldn’t even feel a damned thing. He glanced down at his shaking bloodied hands, leaned up against a wall, and then slid to the ground, quietly sobbing. Only the dead were here to keep him company.

“Why are you crying Henry? We did it!” A voice called out. The concerned face of Charles greeted him. The boy looked uncertain, his hero was a bawling mess.

Decisions:
1. “I thought I told you to stay the fuck away, I needed… I needed a damned moment.”
2. “Don’t fucking look at me.”
3. “Hey Charles.”
4. *Say nothing*
5. “I’m a mess ain’t I? I don’t do well when it comes to killing kids, Charles.”
6. (Write in)

>>3929793
>6. (Write in)
"Charles, tell Rosa to take everyone back to our workshop, I'll finish up here."
Cry some more.
Maybe even take out frustrations out on the necromancer here.
Then head to where those asshat cult members are at.

>>3929793
this >>3929802

>>3930191
>>3929802
writng

>>3929793
“C-charles, tell Rosa to take everyone back to the workshop… keep her outside of course. I’ll finish up here.”

“Henry the workshop is a day’s ride away back in Avignon… what are you doing?” Charles asked, now very concerned. The boy inched close while Henry stared at the ground.

He didn’t fucking need this.

“I need to link back up with the cult of progress, tell them that we did it, though the fact Rally isn’t destroyed will key them in I think.” Henry said.

“Where would you meet up with them? Did they tell you?” Charles asked.

“R-rally probably, I don’t know Charles. I figure I can get into contact with someone there. I haven’t thought far enough ahead yet, okay?!”

Henry sighed, leaning up against the stone wall of the mausoleum. He needed to center himself again. He hated having to use the cult’s teachings but he had nothing to fall back on. Nothing!

“Henry? Why are you so upset? We did it! We won and the cult will be pleased, meaning we’ll be in much better shape to pitch them the ticky project, and they’ll probably trust us a lot more!” Charles said, positively giddy.

“Charles, does the fact we just butchered a girl mean nothing?” Henry asked.

“Why would it? She was nobody important! She hurt none of us, she didn’t even put up a fight like Del Mar did! We handled it so much better!” Charles said. “Rosa and the rest are burying her right now. I figured we could dig her up and get her to the cult later right? They’d probably want to study her.”

“Charles I’m not –“ Henry said, choking up midway.

“Ah we’re going to take her for ourselves right?” Charles asked. “Smart! We better give it some better security to make sure it doesn’t bust out at night.”

“It’s a her Charles…” Henry said.

“Cheer up!” Charles said. “We did it! We can even go back to Rally, Larry said you had some family there! U-unless you’re not doing well with them. I-I’d get that.”

Decisions:
1. *stay silent*
2. “Charles… we have a LOT to discuss.”
3.”Thanks Charles, for whatever reason I feel better.” (lie?)
4. (write in)

>>3931305
>4. (write in)
"Charles, at one time many people thought you were no one of importance."

>>3931305
this >>3931308 plus
"They would be saying the same things about you too. You'd do well not to get carried away like this again. Stop and look real good at what is going on in front of you, Charles. If you don't, something worse will MAKE you face it, and you might not come back from that."

>>3931308
>>3931312
writing

>>3931305
“Charles, at one time many people thought you were no one of importance.” Henry said.

“But not anymore Henry! Thanks to you I’m important!” Charles said, still giddy with the rush of victory.

“They would be saying the same things about you too. You’d do well to not get carried away like this again. Stop and look real good at what is going on in front of you, Charles. If you don’t something worse will MAKE you face it, and you might not come back from that.”

“Okay Henry…” Charles said, not even remotely convinced. The boy didn’t have the nerve to talk back, and Henry realized he was probably worried he’d toss him out if he gave him too much lip.

Henry didn’t know if that was the truth or not. He stood up shakily and followed the boy back towards the others. He began to remember exactly what Johnny had told him about how the boy would soak up his actions rather than his words. Fucking hell he really was starting to doubt himself now.

“Oy Henry!” Larry said, running up to the man. “Man I really can’t believe we fecking did it. I thought one of us might… heh.” He said, rubbing the back of his neck. “Thanks for getting us all through this yeh?”

“We ain’t thru it till we get back to Avignon, Larry.” Henry said.

“Right right.” Larry said. “Well, help me dig this hole then, Rosa is insistent that we do a proper six feet.”

Henry sighed. “Well digging with your hand’s ain’t gonna cut it. We should lay her in one of the graves in the cemetery for the time being.

“Out of the question!” Rosa said, stomping her foot down.

A couple of ghiests floated by overhead, testing the womans resolve.

“Right, we should make camp for tonight somewhere safe, then head for town when the gates are open.” Xavier said. “We can probably borrow a shovel from a villager or something. Rosa could probably do it, she has her healers robe’s after all.”

Decision:
1. “We make for Rally, we want to put distance between us and that town.”
2. “We make camp, a good distance away, the body is going to start attracting wildlife. So we’ll need to bury it temporarily in the cemetary, Rosa.”
3. (write in)

>>3931333
>3. (write in)
"We could always cremate her, better than having the cult come sniffing and dig her up anyways."

>>3931333
“We could burn her right?” Charles asked. “That way nobody would come sniffing and the animals wouldn’t get to her.”

“OUT OF THE QUESTION!” Rosa said.

“Right, we can’t burn her, ESPECIALLY given the fact that thing might still be inside.” Xavier added

“Well he has one point, we shouldn’t put her corpse right on top of the fucking leyline, you morons.” Ophelia said.

Everyone took a few moments to ponder the possible disaster that they’d almost created.

“R-right, well we can’t burn her, might create an entirely new ghiest.”

“What do you mean?” Charles asked.

“Seriously? Even I know you shouldn’t feckin burn corpses.” Larry said. “You need to let em sleep proper.”

“Charles, if you burn a corpse more often than not a flame ghiest is born, not to mention the spirit of the departed will be driven into an uncontrollable fury. The flame ghiest is incredibly destructive while the human ghiest can be even more dangerous. Its one of the reasons those paladins in Avignon even exist, to quell that sorta stuff.”

“Well wouldn’t it be a good idea to create it as a distraction?” Charles asked.

“OUT. OF. THE. QUESTION.” Rosa said, beating every word into the boy.

“I agree, horrid idea, especially after that horrid business.” Xavier said.
“I’m for it, anything to get us distance and a distraction from this mess.” Ophelia said.

“I say we burn it and leave.” Charles said. Rosa looked like she was going to strike the boy. Ophelia had already positioned herself well out of harms way.

“I ain’t picking a side here, feck that.” Larry said.

Of course, all eyes turned to Henry.

Decisions:
1. Burn the girl, run, and hope the ensuing distraction is sufficient
2. Try to find a suitable way to bury her
3. Head out and leave her for the crows, nothing to be done about it at this point.
4. Make camp and bury her in the morning, you still can’t believe you didn’t bring a shovel
5. (write in)

>>3931357
>>3932766 new thread!