"Commander sir, reporting for duty." You presented yourself with a salute as you approached the council table. The Commander and the Colonel were both there organizing their papers while the Field Team Leader watched idly at the side, nodding your way.

"Very good. Is there anything to report before we brief you?" The Commander asked, neatly coupling together the papers.

"Sir, I've completed the quest 'Lightning Hound Grounding'. I had some assistance from others and together we've captured the Zinogre, it should be here soon enough."

"Excellent, now I can stop hearing reports about that one." The Commander affirmed, paying you out of his pocket for the deed then. You were awarded twenty nine thousand Zenny, bringing you up to 80182 Zenny.

"Alright, now that you're ready, we've assembled plenty of tasks on hand. Not every one will take place in the Guiding Lands, though the ones that should be most important to you will."

The Commander handed the quest papers over from across the table and you began to look through them, scanning the key details fast.

"Alrrrright kiddo, I'll be lookin' forrrrward to worrrrking with you on these." The Colonel said, hiccuping from his pipe's smoke. "You need not do them rrrright away, as I'll be going on me way back to the Guiding Lands now, however I expect you not to forrrrget either. I'll be waiting."

The Colonel saluted everyone else and walked off in his funny Troverian way, going to travel back to the Guiding Lands where his station was.

"I'll see about them, sir." You say to the Commander and Field Team Leader, half saluting once more.

"Good luck, and may the Sapphire Star light your path! Dismissed."

You went back to your own room with your copies of the papers in hand and sat down at your desk, looking them over.

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

Urgent Assignments: https://pastebin.com/8H13PEXs

>Let's get on with it and pick out an Urgent to take.
>We don't have to do them right away, let's go do another normal quest.
>Let's rest up for today before we do anything else.
>Write in.

>>4106348
>>Let's get on with it and pick out an Urgent to take.

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>>4106348
>Private

>>4106379
Shit that was a mistake. You should be able to view it now. Sorry.

>>4106348
>Let's get on with it and pick out an Urgent to take.
We need that Usurper's Roar before we try taking that Ukanlos(we can do it with our current GL but it's suboptimal) and Gog help us if we can't find any Fire resistant armor before the Akantor breaks loose. Our current armor should be sufficient to protect us against it. Not as much as Thunder but good enough. We should stock up on buffing items and go harvesting after we land at the fortress.

>>4106394
>Our current armor should be sufficient to protect us against it
"it" being Ukanlos, we'll be Hunter cracklings if we fight Akantor with the skin of a pyrophobic monster like Khezu and our burpblight.

>>4106348
Let's start with 'Hiding In Plain Sight', then we can finish the rest of the urgents in the Guiding Lands.

Gotta leave my home on an errand. Will check back in some time, maybe two hours at the least.

>>4106348
>>4106414
"Beating The Basarios" might be better because it gives us materials for some fire resistance, which we need. If we can kill/capture it before sundown then we can give the materials to the SFM and have it ready for the Akantor fight. Maybe.

There is the risk of getting burned, though, which I hate.

Almost forgot; we should get water balloons.

>>4106438
Ill second this. Im extremely interested in the Ukanlos mission, too. Basarios is a good break from elder gods and great target practice for a gunlance.

>>4106348
>Title: Delving Into The Dark.
This seems simple enough, just go there see what it is and make a report, easy money.

>>4106673
>, easy money
(Raughter)
Yeah, no way. Namielle or some other bigwig will be there and kick us in the dick, undoubtedly.
Not to say we shouldnt go, however.

>>4106713
"Seems simple enough" is a running joke in this quest. We can check that place out after pushing Unkanlos' shit in with our Blazing Gunlance, though.

>>4106718
Sounds like a good plan to me.

Keeping your copies of the papers on hand, you decide that you will first help the Colonel out in the Guiding Lands like you said you would back at Council. Stuffing the papers into your satchel, you locked the abode down and paid Atricia a visit next door. She was already celebrating by herself with Shara in her new room, having traded her gear in for a sun dress. You tell her you'll be gone a while, going out to the mysterious lands far away from here.

You give her a copy of your room's key and tell Vivi to stay with Atricia and Shara for now. Vivianne acknowledges you despite wanting to go as well, but is quickly more relieved to hear Atricia promise to take her out. The Scoutress swears she'll take good care of Shara and Vivi until you're done. You thank her make your leave then.

Going out to the dock, you caught up with the Colonel in time just before the Troverian was about to leave. He had an airship of his own for transportation, somewhat smaller than the other one the Commission used here.

"ALL ABOARD!" The helmsman called to the workers as they got on. You came and sat across from the Colonel on a table on deck.

"So Colonel, how is it you have access to all of this?" You asked as you seated yourself for the ride.

"Tis' because I am a higher officerrrr in the Guild. Technically, I would normally be the one giving orderrrrs, as only the Admiral outrrranks me here, but I was put on the job back home the Commanderrrr rrrrequested of me. So until the Guild sends worrrrd of otherrrrwise, I shall obey his dirrrection."

"How goes the progress on the fort then?"

"Tis' done! Save forrrr a wall that was collapsed by that giant." The Colonel exclaimed, pouring himself some sort of liquor. You accepted a glass from him.

"Done already? Last I saw all you had was a small pile of supplies at that camp. How'd you go and do that?"

"Hah hah hah! Troverrrian masterrrry of courrrrse! And because I had anotherrrr ship deliverrring otherrrr than the Arrrrgosy, but that one returrrrned. The Arrrgosy is set to deliverrr some rrrrrepairrrr supplies soon enough so we can get that wall back up. I'm hoping you'll be able to do something about ourrrr giant problem so it doesn't happen again."

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"All by myself?"

"No. I have with me stationed at the forrrrt an escorrrt of footmen of the Defenderrrr Corrrrps. They'rrrre not Hunterrrs by any means, they'rrrrre all soldierrrry, but they possess the latest in technological advances, including mightily powerrrrful weapons of the Defenderrrr Corrrrps. I plan on letting you take command of them to deal with my prrrroblem, I have alrrready heard of yourrrr exploits in the siege. I trust you will do better with my footmen, you will find these soldierrrs listen betterrrr than Hunterrrs."

"I see. I'll try my best then."

In the distance, you were fast approaching the Guiding Lands by the airship now. You could see the fortress in all it's glory. It was about half the size of Astera, more like a tropical Seliana. It had flak towers and a pyramidic keep connecting it all by tall walls of stone. There were rafters and alcoves for ballista emplacements and viewports for cannon fire. On the shore stretched a small dock that lead back to the fort by stone paths through the trees at the coastline.

It sat in a nice spot near the waters, and far off to sea you could see a gigantic pillar of rock, a natural gland of the Earth protruding upwards.

"I have just one more question." You say as you finish your glass.

"Hm?"

"Why do you drag out your arrrs?"

"I was borrrrrn with a unique accent. Troverrrian stuff."

"Huh."

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The airship docked near the small port and let everyone off at the sands. The workers you didn't really recognize at first, they seemed more dressed to their occasion than the workers of the Second Fleet, and then you realized they were all imported from the Old World. The Colonel's own personal band of hands. This Troverian held uniformity and professionalism high in his league, it was easy to see why the Commander called for him across the ocean.

You walked alongside the short and stubby Colonel and his workers as they marched through the pine trees in an orderly fashion carrying their good, mostly supplies.

"Herrrre, a basic layout on a blueprrrrint sheet." The Colonel says, handing you over a rolled up blueprint.

The Fort had multiple entrances, one leading off into the greater expanse of the Guiding Lands and one leading back to the dock, as well as one outwards onto the open great beachhead. There was so much water around, you loved it.

"I've been told beforrrrre by airrrrship obserrrrverrrs that my forrrrt designs often rrrresemble occultist symbols." The Colonel says, chuckling.

"Well, I do think it is quite impressive. What's this ex here mean?"

"That's the wall the giant put out of commission."

"Huh. So, tell me, what's the reason for securing the Guiding Lands like this though?"

The Colonel looks about for a minute.

"I'll let in on a little secrrrret lad. The Commander was given orrrrderrrrs from back home to securrre the Guiding Lands like this as parrrt of biggerrrr plans the Guild has forrrr it in the futurrrre. The estimates have concluded that the Guiding Lands alone has as much rrrraw rrrresourrrces to plunderrr as thrrrree New Worrrrlds. It's a truly amazing place." The Colonel told you.

"Who came up with that?"

"Many scientists frrrrom both continents. They say it will go good in helping to establishing a futurrrre wherrrre the New Worrrld is colonized properly. Tis' all aparrrrt of the Guild's hundred yearrrrs plan ahead for generrral prrrrogrrress of society and civilization."

"Hmm..."

"So, what prrrroblem will you be fixing firrrrst?"

>I'll go after your 'sneak thief' first.
>Let me deal with your Basarios first.
>The 'giant' sounds like the most pressing matter here.
>Write in.

>>4106861
>Let me deal with your Basarios first.
Seems to be the simplest. If the Lao-Shan Lung quest is another fortress assault, we better wait until we have our newer GL.

>>4106861
>colonizing the new world
Interesting but
>exploiting the guiding lands
This is a bit questionable

I vote for going after the Basarios.

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>>4106861
>Let me deal with your Basarios first.
Take it easy!

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"I'll take care of the Basarios first."

"Verrrry good. Come on then, follow me."

The Colonel led you then into The Fort. A steel reinforced bulkhead on the walls slid open to reveal a wooden gate which was pulled up by automatic mechanisms within the wall itself.

The inside yards of The Fort weren't exactly large, but had just enough room to allow breathing space for the occupants This yard, one of six in total, was a general entrance and bore no excessive features here between these walls of mortar.

The Colonel took you through an overpass of one of the flak towers and into the training yard right outside the small guard house of The Fort. He grabs a small horn trinket from a table and blows it. Out of the guard house comes fifteen men in matching sets of armor.

"Atten-hut!" The Colonel orders.

The men line up in an orderly fashion facing towards the Colonel, who stood off from them all. They looked like the waiting line of people you were once apart of applying to join the Guild back in the day. The Colonel walks in front of you and stops.

"Stand in line!"

The men all turn simultaneously and you get a good look at them. Their armors all appeared to be identical to the armor usually worn by Guild Knights of the Guardian Order centered out of Dundorma. You would know, you've seen at least one or two for every big city or town you went to in your life.

"Excellent display as always. Captain, intrrrroduce yourrrr mates."

One of the soldiers, one who wore a green scale tabard stepped forward and in front of the group to face you with a salute showing his fist raised over his chest.

"Sir. Captain Monty, 9th Section, 18th Battalion of the Defense Corps, sir! The Defense Corps is a specialized new branch that was formed by the Hunter's Guild Administration on exactly 8th Rise of the Pearl month! Half a year ago! It was formed to act as a militia force in Guild territory and Guild associated states to compliment the law enforcing Guardian Order as a military force counterpart! Defense Corps members and inductees are considered more closely to be soldiers rather than fully-fledged Hunters and do not receive as much training as Hunters, sir! But are made to make up for this through our utilization of the Guild's latest technology and strength through numbers in order to effectively combat and neutralize Monsters and any other threat there of, sir! The Defense Corps currently stands twenty thousand, seven hundred and fifty four men strong, sir!"

Quite... an introduction.

The Colonel nods happily at their loyalty and looks to you.

"I'm a high rrrrranking quarrrrterrrrrmasterrrrr of the Guild norrrrmally, but I only earrrrned my title because I was selected to be a top commanderrr of the Defense Corrrps too. Back in the Old Worrrld I handle much worrrrk rrrrelated to the Corrrps and command a rrregiment as well. Herrrre in the New Worrrld, I was only perrrmitted to bring a cohorrrt forrrr each weapon type."

"I see." You say.

All at once, the Defense Corps troopers draw their weapons. Each of their weapons were unique 'Defender' variants of weapon types the Guild already used.

"Now, forrrr the Basarrrrios, I will allow you to take thrrree of my men. Make yourrr choice now." The Colonel says.

You didn't really know how to feel about this 'Defense Corps'. They just admitted they aren't as trained as real Hunters, and when you only have half of the training a Hunter requires to truly be a Hunter, you usually end up very dead. Did these Defender henchmen by chance think they were comparable to actual Hunters? You didn't know, but they sure seemed keen on their roles.

>I'm not going to take any of your troops, I'll work alone.
>I'll take... (Choose 3 weapon types) ... with me.
>Write in.

>>4106950
>I'm not going to take any of your troops, I'll work alone.
It's just an angry rock. We should be fine.

>>4106950
HBG, sword and shield, insect glaive.

We need guys.

>>4107008
Support. This is the Guiding Lands, there isn't any telling what else will be walking around out there.

"You. You, and you." You say as you point out the troopers wielding the Defender Heavy Bowgun, Warhatchet and Glaive. The three step up and you look to the Colonel expectantly.

"Well? What arrrre you standing arrrround forrrr? You have a job to do, get going!"

"Where exactly?"

The Colonel pointed over the way of the nearby Fort exit. "The Guiding Lands lad."

"I don't think I have the map for this place. Didn't you give me one last time? Got anymore?"

"I can't be botherrrred to crrrrawl thrrrrough my keep just to find a map, and mapping this place has been difficult anywhuw. The Soldierrry herrrre all know most of the Guiding Lands themselves, let them be yourrr guide. Heh, guide."

You weren't going to argue back against the Colonel on that, the troopers you selected had already began to move out and leave the place, so you are left only with the choice to follow them as the Colonel and the rest of the troopers vanish back inside The Fort.

You guess you'd have to make as best a use of these new minions as you could until you could finally ditch them.

"Say, know anything about the materials to find here?"

"Sir. Plenty of ore veins are around and offer bountiful hauls. You can also buy a sum of these sorts of materials from the keep as well. The Colonel thought it would be necessary to get some semblance of an economy spinning here." The Warhatchet Defender says.

"I can buy them, huh? How costly would it be to buy materials here? We don't buy materials back on the mainland."

"Sir. I won't lie, it might cost a leg and an arm or an eye, we consider these materials highly valuable and extremely rare."

"Could I get an idea of what I could make with these materials?"

"Sir. Zorah Magdaros equipment, upgraded to suite an A-Lister or high ranked Hunter from what we've heard."

"Zorah Magdaros?"

"Yes sir, that's right. A derelict skull of a Zorah Magdaros was discovered in the Rotted Region. We believe this whole island is the result of it's death centuries ago."

"Interesting..."

Hmm, Zorah Magdaros was a walking volcano basically. Imagine the fire protection it's equipment would offer. It would certainly help with things like Akantor. You'd have to look into it.

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You were still in command here, these soldiers would obey any direction you gave them. Come to think of it, you could 'ditch' them by ordering them to go mine some places for you while you deal with the Basarios.

You get them to tell you about the regions along the way and you learn much about the Guiding Lands, and how it has practically every monster the New World alone does. It's a weird place here... I mean, how the hell is there snow here on an island like this, which also sports a desert and has lava?

Never mind it for now. You stop as the troopers bring you to the area where the objective lied.

You looked ahead and saw the Basarios moving around curiously in a muddy zone with some Kestodons roaming about. You knew a little about these things, they could shoot balls of fire and they loved to charge like Diablos. It's carapace would be tough, but it was still only a baby compared to it's adult form, Gravios, you would still be able to hurt it in the right spots. How much you would actually hurt it was up for debate however, you still only had your Blazing Gunlance and that might not do so well against the carapace of a fire elemental monster.

Shite. You should have asked if they had any other Defender weapons in stock, anything would be better than your current weapon. At least these guys all had weapons that could hurt it as well.

The Basarios was seemingly trying it's best to blend in with a mossy rock wall so it could sleep in peace.

"Alright, what do you guys have on you?"

"Sir. We all carry a basic loadout, including our slingers. We have potions, pods and essentials. We have one pitfall trap and barrel bomb if you count the extra things we've brought." The Heavy Bowgunner Defender tells you.

"Okay. Let me think of something."

This place was full of Monsters, you had to think fast as you looked over to the now drowsy Basarios from where you stood. The Defenders were ready and willing.

What will you do here now?

>choosing the baguette over a hammerbro
Hope he doesn't try to mount too much. The Kestodons will be a problem, their autistic screeching would wake the Basarios up before we can sleep bomb it.

What are some possible exits?

I'm asking so I can figure out where to place the trap.

Is there a way to get to the Basarios without disturbing the Kestodons, or are they too close to each other?

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Probably should have given some choices but I was too sleepy then.

The Kestodons roaming about didn't seem to mind the Basarios so long as it wasn't moving like this, and the Basarios hadn't seemed to mind them yet either. The loudest sounds the Kestodons occasionally made at Basarios wouldn't even get it to realize they were there. You could safely say that the Kestodons posed little of a problem here.

There were multiple ways in this spot to go out of and come in through. There was a camp you could reach by wedge beetle not only a few steps away to boot as well.

(Purple diamond icons indicate small monsters such as Aptonoth and Kestodon.)

>Tell them to watch and learn.
>Order the Defenders to attack for you, see what they're capable of.
>Instruct the Defenders to lure out another large monster into a turf war with Basarios.
>Send them to get explosives, we'll rig them near Basarios to detonate while it snores.
>Tell them to prepare their pitfall trap while you get Basarios into it, then we all attack.
>Write in.

>>4107784
>Send them to get explosives, we'll rig them near Basarios to detonate while it snores.
Give the pitfall trap to the IG grunt, he should be able to pole vault over to the westmost exit and set it up there after we prep the sleep bombing.

The question remains: who's gonna break what?

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Slow night, huh.

>>4107784
>Send them to get explosives, we'll rig them near Basarios to detonate while it snores.

>>4108031
Seems the whole board is on a slow streak right now, you can tell because popular quests like Body Horror and StV haven't reached at least 3-400 posts yet, which they normally should.

It is also Harmony day.

>>4108031
Hard to participate at work, but this is really pathetic, ay.

>>4107784
>Send them to get explosives, we'll rig them near Basarios to detonate while it snores.

>>4107784
Baguette user preps to drop the pit trap while the rest of us set up bombs. Grab some slinger ammo and show this old world monster the new worlds wall bang wake-up. Then drop the trap before it gets up to snag it for a couple of free hits.

If the gastodons could prove an issue, have the swordboard run distraction for set up. His shield should keep any unnecessary hits getting in. But, as soon as the bombs go off he needs to hustle over to join in the beat down.

"What's the nearby camp have?"

"Sir. It should have some basics things such as first aid and rations. We did store some bombs there, they were supposed to be used to clear out limestone walls blocking miners from accessing deeper parts of the volcanic region." The Warhatchet Defender answers.

"Why put them up so high though?"

"Sir. To keep them out of the reach of monsters, and because it's the Colonel's personal orders to keep most of our gunpowder away from The Fort itself."

"What? Why would he order something like that?"

"Sir. It's because we've noticed disturbances in the offshore oil field when we our ship loaded with things like that was nearby. The Colonel wants it as far away from the oil field as it can be." The Glaive Defender answers.

An oil field off the coast of the The Fort? Interesting.

You instruct the Defenders to go get some bombs while you wait. They seemed to never forget saluting right before carrying out your orders. One by one, they all went to the nearby camp, going up by the wedge beetle. Soon after, you saw them coming back down the stream carrying large barrel bombs, they took the long way.

You moved in with them, telling them where exactly to place the bombs at while you kept an eye on the Kestodons. The Basarios was still sleeping fast when the bombs were placed near it's head.

You gave the rest of your orders and prepared. The Insect Glaive Defender moved off behind you to place down the pitfall trap and wait. The Warhatchet Defender started to move off to the side as the Defender Gunner backed up and held his gun.

"Okay.... fire at will." You say.

"Copy that, sir. Executing...."

One puff exits his barrel as he fires a normal bullet.

The Basarios is awakened rudely and jumps back in pain from the explosion rocketing it's head then!

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Almost immediately after being awakened by point blank explosions, the Basarios roars and charges your way!

You easily evade way before you needed to, but the Insect Glaive Defender stood there, refusing to move out of the way.

"Initiating tactical move!" He sounded off before running towards the Basarios.

You stared in confusion, wondering what the hell this guy was trying to do.

You saw him use his glaive to propel himself through the air just as the Basarios became trapped by the pitfall trap. However, as the Basarios sank into the trap, it managed to move itself just enough to swing it's tail at the right moment, hitting the Glaive Defender and throwing him across the area, into the wall.

"AAAARGH!"

"He's paralyzed, Sir!"

"Fracking damn it. Forget him, we have to weaken it's shell!" You say, preparing to attack with your Gunlance.

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

Basarios Health: 692

308 damage dealt by barrel bombs

Team:

You. (Healthy)
Warhatchet Defender. (Healthy)
Gunner Defender. (Healthy)
Glaive Defender. (Wounded/Paralysis)

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

You and the two other Defenders went to dish out some damage on Basarios while it was down.

>Roll a 3d80 to weaken Basarios.

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Rolled 5, 6, 39 = 50 (3d80)

>>4108268
>Glaivefag basically went "Je suis monte!"
Every time.

Rolled 55, 54, 46 = 155 (3d80)

>>4108268
I'm unaccustomed to monsters with less than fortress size health

>>4108268

Could we bring it down to tranq range before it breaks free?

>>4108289
4chan ate your roll.

Can I roll for >>4108289? He seemed to just roll and run.

>>4108289
Take 2? Don't know what happened.

>>4108304
Bro, I just got off work. Calm the mammories.

>>4108310
Make sure dice isnt capitalised

Rolled 49, 42, 47 = 138 (3d80)

>>4108268
>>4108310
I don't need this!!

>>4108317
Thank you! Fuck.

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All as one, you and two of the other Defenders attacked the Basarios grounded in the trap, but despite having the plan go so good now, things would yet go awry as the Gunner Defender ceased to attack, contrary to your orders.

"WHAT ARE YOU DOING?!" You yelled.

"SIR! IT IS APART OF THE DEFENSE CORPS' DUTY TO ALWAYS ASSIST DOWNED COMRADES!" The Gunner Defender shouted out as fast as he could, running over to help the Glaive Defender overcome his paralysis. That took power off of this combined assault!

To make things worse, as you attacked with the Warhatchet Defender, you were more concerned blocking his outrageous swings, giving you little time to attack use your bayonet on the Basarios.

This guy swung wildly, and with the arm of an amateur! He didn't know how to properly handle that weapon like a Hunter, plenty of his swings chip the wrong spot or bounce due to an unfocused angle! He even tries to hit the bare stone of the carapace with his blunt shield, the idiot!

You are able to at least spend a full round of shells on the Basarios, weakening it's back, but you are thrown back then when the Warhatchet Defender manages to build up a blast, making an explosion with his last hit on the shell too close to you and him. Both of you ended up in the dirt as the Basarios managed to free itself.

You had to crawl up quickly and pull the Warhatchet man away as the Basarios tried to burn you both with plumes of fire from it's stomps.

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

Basarios Health: 549

43 reduced damage dealt due to Defender mess ups.

100 damage dealt from Blast explosion.

Team:

You. (Healthy)
Warhatchet Defender. (Healthy)
Gunner Defender. (Healthy)
Glaive Defender. (Wounded)

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

These guys were holding you back, you might have to get them to refrain from attacking next time.

The Basarios was getting ready to shoot a fireball, and then follow it up with another charge towards you!

You loaded Watermoss into your slinger.

>Wall bang the Basarios before it does anything.
>Let's lure it out to another area and try to use the terrain to our advantage.
>Let's retreat to the camp, we need to get some things in order with these morons.
>Write in.

>>4108372
>These guys were holding you back, you might have to get them to refrain from attacking next time.
Never get these guys to help again.

>Wall bang the Basarios before it does anything.
Sling the pod into it's mouf.

You made the daring decision to run at the Basarios then as you told the others to stay out of your way. You'd at least show them how a real Hunter works as they stood at the sidelines.

The Basarios opened it's mouth, fire blowing out of the edges as it prepared to shoot it's fireball. You raised your arm and fired one of the Watermoss projectiles into it's mouth, dousing the building flames and making the Basarios gag, spewing out saliva as it gargled at the smoke in it's throat now.

Grabbing onto one of it's face's ridges with your clutch claw, you jumped up, punching your fist into it's nose before you spent the remaining Watermoss puddle pods into it's eyes. The Basarios roared as you jumped off, running forward blindly with water clouding it's vision.

The thing collided with the wall as you expected and fell back, it's head within reach for you. But that wasn't what you needed to hurt the most here, it was it's back to soften it's rock carapace.

Now you thought about how easily you could broken that carapace already if those Defender's hadn't messed up everything! You let your anger fuel your strength here!

>Roll 1d500 to shatter the carapace.

Rolled 341 (1d500)

>>4108424
Watch how it's done you soft-faced defender nerds.

>>4108424
Stupid Defender shitters, this is how you hunt.

Rolled 390 (1d500)

>>4108431
Facepalm

Rolled 242 (1d500)

>>4108424
Strike the earth!

Rolled 426 (1d500)

>>4108424
Blood 4 da blood Gog!

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The carapace of the Basarios was struck hard by your weapon as you swiped down at it with all the anger you could muster and shot a Wyrmstake rod into the folds the initial hits form. The explosion running through the stone as the rod burned away at it helped weaken it further for you.

You pulled back and struck again after reloading, deciding to 'soft-fire' a round of shells into the Basarios' carapace. The stone was now brittle, and so cracked more easily under your next blow, and your next as you unrelentingly attacked it.

Only when the Basarios did stand again do you stop, and by that time you had nearly finished the carapace off completely. But still, it was there. It was there, at least until you saw cluster bombs suddenly rain down on the Basarios, finishing it's carapace off and shattering the stones about.

You saw it was the Gunner Defender, who fired on his own to assist you.

"Sir, the carapace is broken. Now what?"

Well, now it time to finish off this Basarios. Breaking the carapace was only one part.

The stone wyvern rose back up with broken rocks sliding off of it's back. The thing roared, enraged by what was done and began to release poisonous gas as it slowly moved towards your group.

You looked back and saw the pathway up stream, telling them all you would go that, next ordering your men to evade as the Basarios fired off a beam of heat from it's at them.

You began running that way you saw then, but then saw the others running to a different pathway, one that led to a shaded forest area. What the hell were they doing?!

GOG FRACKING... ARGH!

You turned away and followed them instead to this new place as the Basarios suddenly charged, following everyone there.

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

Basarios Health: 1000

420 damage dealt from anger induced strikes.

50 damage dealt by cluster bombing.

Basarios' carapace health bar has been broken, revealing it's true one.

In the distance, you hear an unfamiliar roar...

Team:

You. (Healthy)
Warhatchet Defender. (Healthy)
Gunner Defender. (Healthy)
Glaive Defender. (Wounded)

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

Upon entering the new area, you see your inept followers have somehow gotten themselves surrounded by a local pack of Jagras, which they are barely able to fend off, relying entirely on their armor to keep them from getting torn to pieces already.

The Basarios is following close behind, but has stopped letting out poisonous gas.

>Let's try and get the big guy to charge straight into the pack. The Defender's armor should protect them, and harden them to the real dangers they signed up for.
>Order them to use their flash pods to blind everything, then look for a hanging boulder to drop on the Basarios.
>Try and hold out until that distant roar comes closer. Might end with a turf war, one that could hurt the Basarios badly.
>Run in and get them out to flee while you try and use the pack to distract Basarios.
>Write in.

>>4108515
>Order them to use their flash pods to blind everything, then look for a hanging boulder to drop on the Basarios.

>>4108515
>Order them to use their flash pods to blind everything, then look for a hanging boulder to drop on the Basarios.
Ideally, the turf war will happen AFTER basarios get raped by a boulder.

>the fucking """"""'defenders"""""""
Fuckin christ. They're worse than baby chicks.

>>4108515
>Run in and get them out to flee while you try and use the pack to distract Basarios.
They will probably mess this up too but it's better than blinding themselves.

>>4108582
>blinding themselves
It was wrong for me to assume they could operate a basic tool. Gog.

I change my vote to this, if time allows.

"Use your flashpods!" You shouted as the Basarios stomped in.

Pthrew!
Pthiuw!
Pthiuew!

"AAAAAAAAGH! MY EYES! MY EYES!"
"I THOUGHT THESE HELMETS WERE RATED TO PROTECT AGAINST FLASHES!"
"I closed my eyes, hah hah hah."

One by one, all of them flooded the entire area with blinding light as they used their flash pods. The Warhatchet Defender at least had the foresight to close his damned eyes before using his FLASH pod.

You went in besides him, taking on Jagras after Jagras to thin the pack, leaving it at only two Jagras and the Great one. Surprisingly, the Warhatchet Defender actually managed to kill three. The Gunner on the other hand knocks himself down with his recoil and the Insect Glaive user brilliantly catches his own leg by a vine trying to preform a leap while blinded, causing him to dangle in the air like it's some sort of gog damned circus act. It's actually unbelievable what you're seeing.

Are these fools even up to standard in their own vaunted legion? Are they newbies? Panicking secretly from actually getting deployed against Monsters? It was hard to tell. All you knew is that the 'Defense Corps' was utter shite if this is how it's nameless rank and file mooks act in action. And for someone who seemed so professional and well versed in what they're doing, the Colonel surely couldn't endorse these guys without irony? Could he? Maybe he never gets to see first hand how bad they really are.... most officers don't.

Well, enough of that.

The Basarios was now trudging over, shooting fireballs out of it's mouth wildly. You had the Warhatchet Defender get the Gunner out of the way and told him to get the Glaive user down.

The Basarios hits the remaining Jagras with a heat beam as it comes near the center, killing the last two instantly and almost boiling the fattened great one alive. It was now under the next part to your trick.

Grabbing some Slinger Thorns from a helmcrab you kick over, you shot both up at a massive boulder suspended by vines above the Basarios, dropping the thing down on the wyvern and dealing immense damage to it!

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

Basarios Health: 800

200 damage dealt by falling boulder hazard.

Team:

You. (Healthy)
Warhatchet Defender. (Healthy)
Gunner Defender. (Healthy)
Glaive Defender. (Wounded/In a sticky situation)

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

File: Tree delivery service.png (27 KB, 512x351)

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You heard the unfamiliar roar again and turned your head to see the source of it.

Marching into the area at the noise of an ongoing battle, you witnessed a Banbaro show itself to everyone.

The Basarios rose up after taking the boulder hit and rotated to face the intruding Brute Wyvern, roaring back in it's direction. Both engaged in a turf war, and you got a front row seat!

Both of them backed up, and then charged!

.....Both of their heads collide hard and fast! Their bodies jut upwards and both inflict disorientation upon each other as they both fall down and struggle on the ground to recover from their mutual headache.

Well, that was over really fast.

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

Basarios Health: 700

100 damage dealt by Turf War with Banbaro.

Team:

You. (Healthy)
Warhatchet Defender. (Healthy)
Gunner Defender. (Healthy)
Glaive Defender. (Wounded/Still in a sticky situation)

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

The Banbaro is the first to rise, and it decides to lay it's attention on you and the other Defenders then. Man, you didn't even do anything to this arsehole!

It was about to charge, and Basarios was still out.

>Push the other Defenders aside and jump up, using the Glaive Defender to swing onto the Banbaro's back.
>Soft fire and fly your way past Banbaro to attack Basarios.
>Derail Banbaro's path with a soft fire burst as it charges.
>Run away and tell the Defenders to deal with it.
>Order them to try and attack Basarios while you distract Banbaro.
>Write in.

>>4108626
>Push the other Defenders aside and jump up, using the Glaive Defender to swing onto the Banbaro's back.
If you cannot be useful as teammates, then you will be useful as the tools to our success.

>>4108626
>Push the other Defenders aside and jump up, using the Glaive Defender to swing onto the Banbaro's back.

File: Guiding Lands.png (224 KB, 512x351)

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With your left arm, you reached over and shoved the Gunner and Warhatchet Defenders out of the way as the Banbaro scraped the dirt with it's hoof.

You used a nearby stump to jump up, grabbing the dangling Glaive Defender by his ankles and using him to swing back and forth, building momentum that would allow you to throw yourself up onto the Banbaro's back, from where you could disable it by delivering mounted attacks with your knife.

It seems the panicking Gaive Defender had a different idea in mind however...

The Banbaro charged then, and as it did, he suddenly used his own knife to cut the vines just as you went forward again to try and make the jump. You fell right out of the air with him and the Banbaro's horns got you both in the air, sending you flying across the area...

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

Basarios Health: 700

Team:

You. (Wounded)
Warhatchet Defender. (Healthy)
Gunner Defender. (Healthy)
Glaive Defender. (Carted)

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

"S-Sorry Sir... I tried my best...."

The Glaive Defender collapses where he landed at on the ground. You shook your head and stood up again, utterly furious at what this fool just caused to happen.

The other two Defenders were simply watching as the Basarios and Banbaro went at it again. The stone wyvern was using it's heat beams and shooting fireballs at the brute wyvern, who fought back by picking up and using a tree unlike any other around to bash the Basarios with.

"Sir! Suggesting tactical retreat!" The Gunner Defender called out.

>Frack that! Let's try something new, and I have the perfect idea...
>We really need to distance ourselves from the monsters, so I can distance myself from the Defenders. Let's retreat and plan.
>Find some dung pods and use them to force Banbaro away, then get the Defenders to attack while you charge the head.
>Write in.

>>4109275
>he even Pardon'd
>We really need to distance ourselves from the monsters, so I can distance myself from the Defenders. Let's retreat and plan.
Have them tend to Baguette, they can't seem to do anything related to hunting right.

Fighting the Basarios alone was already enough with these incompetent militiamen tagging along, you had no choice now but to get out of there until the two wyverns separated.

You picked up the pitiful Glaive user and handed him off to the other two Defenders and whistled for them to follow you as you ran out of the area back to the last. Surprisingly, they actually obeyed that time rather than try to run off another way again.

"Sir!"

You snapped your head back to the Defenders as they carried their unconscious partner and his weapon out of the area back to you.

You let your anger with their failure be known as you clenched your fists and gritted your teeth. "What?!"

"Sir... we're only rookies."

"We were picked up right out of a village. I thought we were just going to kill small things. I didn't even know what a Basarios was until today!"

"Sir! I really want to make it up to you! I know we've done awful, but I think I might have a good idea."

"Well spit it out!" You yelled, making them flinch.

"Sir, we have a line trap at our nearby camp we could use to try and trip the Basarios with. I suggest setting it up near the stream, and once the Basarios is tripped, we'll roll the rest of our barrel bombs down at it."

You ceased to grit your teeth at them and instead contemplated his suggestion.

>I can't come up with anything better. Fine, let's try that out.
>I can come up with something better than that. Give me a minute.
>The Basarios is already weak enough as is... Let's quit for now, the whole Defender team at The Fort should be able to take care of the rest for now. (Abandons Quest)
>Write in.

>>4109552
>I can't come up with anything better. Fine, let's try that out.
Let's let up on them a bit, since they're literal noobs. This better work, though.

>>4109552
>The Basarios is already weak enough as is... Let's quit for now, the whole Defender team at The Fort should be able to take care of the rest for now. (Abandons Quest)
Lets get out of the grinding lands already and go do something more interesting.

>>4109589
Like ...? I hate having to deal with the Three Stooges too but the only other "interesting" thing I can think if is going off to beat Ukanlos, which think we would have neither any daylight nor mental health after this debacle of a Quest. The job is already half finished, so let's finish it.

Also give the grunts some damn basic pointers on their equipment in the meantime.

>>4109612
There's that quest with the Admiral and the quest for Lagiacrus.

>>4109624
That Akantor is going to break out soon and I don't think we have the zenny to shell out for that Zorah skull; I chose this Quest for a chance at some Fire-resistant armor in preparation, we aren't getting that by going for a Lagi or checking out the foggy area. The Basarios only has 700 Health, it would be dumb to give up now.

>>4109552
>I can't come up with anything better. Fine, let's try that out.
Having the Defenders equipped with advanced gear to make up for less training is one thing. Throwing fucking ROOKIES with NO training at all into incredibly dangerous situations meant to be dealt with by people far more qualified is absolutely unacceptable. The Colonel has a lot to answer for when we get back.

>>4109552
>I can't come up with anything better. Fine, let's try that out.

You weren't in the go to formulate any better plans, and the rookies seemed to genuinely want to make up for their mistake. It might foolish, but this time you'll trust them and see what comes of it.

Ordering them to get their plan going, you took the Glaive Hunter and retreated back to the camp with them, leaving the poor sod behind near the tent for now. The Warhatchet and Gunner Defenders both gathered the remaining bombs left behind and towed them from the camp using the wedge beetle. You took it upon yourself to grab the line trap they had as well and set it up yourself.

At the very tip of the stream you stretched the thick metal wire across, suspending it by two large supports which you embedded into the dirt by hitting them with the blunt end of your Gunlance's bayonet. Up at the top of the stream, the two Defenders positioned their large barrel bombs and prepared. You stepped under the line you set up and grabbed more Watermoss.

The Banbaro from before came through the area again and you tensed, but saw it was because it was leaving, some fires from the Basarios' heat beams still burning on it's back's fur.

Speaking of the Basarios, that giant stone devil charged into the area suddenly next, trying to keep up with the Banbaro, only to end up staring down at you. The thing was enraged and hadn't forgotten the fight you made with it yet.

You rolled out of the way as it tried to shoulder block and then roll on top of you. You waited near the trap and the thing came charging as you anticipated while you went back up the stream. The metal wire caught the legs of the Basarios and made the stone wyvern fall flat on it's face as you reached the top of the stream. Together, you and the other two Defenders pushed over the barrel bombs and then rolled them down the stream into Basarios.

The bombs exploded, dealing much damage to the beast's last bit of vitality.

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

Basarios Health: 392

308 damage dealt by barrel bombs.

Team:

You. (Wounded)
Warhatchet Defender. (Healthy)
Gunner Defender. (Healthy)
Glaive Defender. (Carted)

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

Now the Basarios was reeling back and slinging it's head around, scared for it's life as it was suddenly put on the ropes. It would try retreating now, and you wouldn't give it the chance.

You went down as you grabbed your Gunlance out in both arms, sliding down the stream by your shield. You were going to jump and try to land another hard blow on the Basarios' head while you still could, a blow fueled by the last ounces of anger inside of you over the Defender's failings.

Worryingly though, the other two Defenders slid down right after you, trying to imitate what you did. These dumb monkeys might mess up again from their monkey see monkey do antics!

You just had to leave it up to luck.

>1d300 to finish the Basarios off.
>Failure will cause the Defenders to throw you off course and let Basarios get away, where it will vanish for a time until coming back fully grown up as Gravios.

Rolled 228 (1d300)

>>4109704

Rolled 231 (1d300)

>>4109704
C'mon boys don't fuck up now. This is your moment to prove you have what it takes.

Rolled 170 (1d300)

>>4109704
YER DUN

Rolled 69 (1d300)

>>4109704
Oh no you don't

>>4109713
Hope this is enough.

>>4109728
Nice one

File: jon.gif (941 KB, 320x180)

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>>4109736
Level no

File: Weak Basarios.png (32 KB, 512x351)

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Rapidly going down the stream, you feel the Warhatchet Defender lose control and bump into you, knocking you slightly off course, but not enough nearly so.

You jumped, throwing yourself up and then swinging in mid air with your Gunlance. The others jumped, the Warhatchet Defender landing on Basarios' wing which he hacked at with his axe, while the Gunner went past it's legs and began to shoot them with spread ammo.

You went around in a cyclone in the air, chopping Basarios twice in the face with two hard bayonet swings before you lodged it into the top of it's head.

You grabbed a hold of Basario's head as the beast roared and freaked out. You pressed the Gunlance against it's head and unleashed the Wyvern's Fire shot, making it hit the floor so you could get off.

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

Basarios Health: 92

300 damage dealt by angry strikes + Wyvern's Fire.

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

Due to the minor hiccup, you weren't able to finish it off in this one blow, but it was now within an inch of it's life.

You saw the thing preparing to leave by trying to fly away. You had a clear shot at it's neck. It would take only a few shells. You reloaded quickly and aimed your Gunlance up...

>2 players roll me a 1d50

Rolled 44 (1d150)

>>4109760
Let's GOOO

Rolled 23 (1d50)

>>4109760
aaand I accidentally slipped in an extra 1 to my roll >>4109761, please forget you saw anything.

Rolled 13 (1d50)

>>4109760
Hoy
I'll end it thus!

>>4109761
Well that roll is still below 50 so I'll take it this once.

Rolled 7 (1d35)

The remainder is 35. If the last two rolls account for what the last two shells in universe did, then this roll shall account for what the last one does. Let us decide now.

Rolled 25 (1d35)

>>4109770
Okay my bad rolling luck pisses me off so I will try one more time.

A shell slammed into the stone carapace of the neck. The Basarios flapped it's wings, throwing the Warhatchet Defender off as it took flight with much effort. The next two came and you saw the carapace plate you shot break off, revealing the soft fleshy skin waiting underneath.

The Gunner Defender saw what you did and shot a slicer bullet into the spot, which exploded and carved the flesh out, giving Basarios a hole on it's throat wall from which blood leaked out of it's now torn jugular veins.

The thing went away slowly, flying off towards the Wildspire region of the Guiding Lands as it bled out.

You had a success bordering on completeness there. The Basarios wasn't going to die immediately, but bleeding out would kill it eventually given enough time. You wanted to pursue it for the carves, but you didn't want to run the risk of encountering another monster again, especially since Banbaro went that way before too, and a Diablos might show possibly...

You had to settle for the Basarios materials that dropped all around, which you collected and stored away for later.

"Hey, good shot." You said to the Gunner, no longer angry over their ignorance. Their plan had worked despite what you thought and you couldn't shame them for that.

"Uh! Oh! Thank you, sir!" He says, saluting.

"What now, sir? We do go after it?"

"No, leave it to die on it's own, it won't have that much longer. Let's get the other one and return back to The Fort for now. I need to see the Colonel...." You say.

"Yes sir."

The Defenders obeyed you, gathering their unconscious Glaive comrade as they followed you back to The Fort.

File: Colonel.png (17 KB, 512x351)

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Arriving back at The Fort, you were welcomed by that Defender in green pigment, Captain Monty. He and his others receive your chosen Defenders back and take their Glaive user to the first aid station in The Fort.

You bid them farewell and let yourself into the main center of The Fort. The inside of the main center was not unlike the barracks in Astera, or the general appearance of Seliana. The floors were rough wood and the walls were gaunt stone reinforced with wood. Torches and candles burned to light the place up and there was a lounge with a brick fire burning. There was a long table in the middle of the center with many seats, and the corners were devised into sections for research, the Colonel's little office behind indoor walling, a kitchen and an armory complete with smithing work stations for creating siege weapons.

The stuff here was all state of the art and the latest in advances, everything was as what Guild outposts and held positions were in form and function, pseudo-militaristic. Hunters weren't an army or a military, but they could very easily pass as one. Hell, if the Guild turned into a nation like those Kingdoms and Republics outside and reorganized it's Hunters and fighters into an army, it might even be the toughest there ever was.

You moved past some workers unloading supplies for their cache and went towards the office of the Troverian responsible for this place. As you approached the door, a man came out then, a Wyverian wearing the Guild Cross set and a lobos hat. He looks up at you for a second as he steps out.

"Hmmpf."

The man walks off and exits the center.

You knew that people who did that particular thing, that disregarding puff always turned out to be sinister. Well you disregarded that as well and entered the office to see the Colonel there reading papers with a red seal over it.

"Ahh, back at last? Has the Basarrrrrios been dealt with?"

"Yeah, pretty much." You say to the Troverian.

"Verrrrrrry good! I knew you had it in you, chum! Herrrrrre, you've earrrrrened it."

The Colonel tosses a purse of Zenny your way, you catch it and pocket it.

He seems to be flabbergasted by the paper he read.

>Speak to/Ask the Colonel something.
>"So, Basarios is down. I'm ready to tackle your sneak thief."
>"Tell me about your giant. When will it next appear?"
>"I'm done for now. I'll come back soon to continue helping like I said I would."
>"I was told that materials mined here were being sold. How much for enough to make armor?"
>Write in.

>>4109801
Ask him why his "soldiers" are so shit first before anything else.

>>4109801
>"I was told that materials mined here were being sold. How much for enough to make armor?"
We'll have to do this now, unfortunately. After any transaction, ask why his soldiers are as green as a Mosswine's back; there's only so much that "technology" can make up for.

>>4109835
We're looking for anything particularly resistant to heat and the Fire element.
inb4 Zorah bones

File: Colonel.png (15 KB, 512x351)

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"I was told there were Zorah materials available from what's been mined. If I wanted to buy enough to make a full set of armor, could you give me a price?"

The Colonel looks up at you and thinks for a moment before he jumps down from his tall chair and walks over to a board to look over a tacked sheet.

"Well, rrrrrreally I shouldn't be selling these materrrrials, they are Guild properrrrty... but, the Guild hasn't kicked it's plans forrr the Guiding Lands into full swing yet, so I see no harrrrm in it. If you want enough to crrrreate a full set of Zorrrrah arrrmorrrrr, I'll be charrrgin' you one hundrrrred and five thousand Zenny, tops."

Damn, you only had 89182 Zenny as of being paid just now. You're gonna need way more money...

The Colonel seats himself back down nicely and puffs his pipe. "So, you'rrre going to get onto the otherrrr urrrgents, rrrright?"

"Actually sir, before I do I'd like to ask you something. What's the coloration of your soldiers for?"

"Color pigment on theirrrr surrrcoats denotes lowerrrr chain of command rrrranking. Us officerrrs that make up the higherrr chain of command within the Defense Corrrrps don't get onto the field, so we go by ourrrr insignia. For the lowerrrr rrrrankings, blue denotes a squad or platoon serrrgeant, grrrreen denotes a cap-i-tan of the Defenderrrs, and yellow a leftenant which is the top position underrrrneath Colonel, and that would be me. The only higherrr position is held by the Guild Masterrrr of Minegarrrrde who founded the Defense Corrrrps, the Marrrshal."

"Why do you ask about me trrrroops? Did they not preform favorrrrably?"

"Actually yes, I have to tell you those soldiers of yours are some of the worst combatants I've ever witnessed in the field in my whole life, even worse than the worst of the worse of Hunters I've ever seen! A Hunter having trouble with a Kut-Ku could have done better than all of them combined!" You suddenly outburst.

The Colonel was surprised by this, and then confused.

"Wha-?! Therrrrre's no way you can be telling the trrrrruth! My Defenderrrs are especially capable men!"

"Your "Defenders" had trouble with the Jagras!"

"I.... they what...?"

"Yes, they were almost killed by Jagras! Their presence in the field nearly cost me being able to kill your Basarios! When attacking, they hit me more than the monster and their swings were sluggish, poor handed and untrained. The one that used the Insect Glaive in specific give himself a concussion twice trying to imitate a veteran Hunter's moves, and then he ended up getting knocked unconscious!"

"......."

The Colonel gives a sour look, but not one directed at you.

"...Arrrre you cerrrrtain...?"

"Absolutely! They only did good with barrel bombs, and after I pulled them all away from Basarios and a Banbaro that showed up, they almost botched up the one good idea they had as well. And they also blinded themselves with their own flash pods."

"....I.... I wasn't allowed to hand pick who was join me in the New Worrrld." The Colonel states then.

"....."

"WHAT?!" You questioned, shocked.

"Ahh... tis trrrrue and unforrrrtunate, I hadn't payed it any thought beforrre. I was given a contingent of soldierrrs back in the Old Worrrld and told they were the best of theirrr class and the most suited to go along with me!" The Colonel admitted.

"You're... you're serious, aren't you?"

"I am not one to lie. I would not tell anything otherrrr than the trrrruth." The Colonel says, placing his hand over his heart.

You sighed.

"The Defense Corrrrps isn't and will neverrrr be as good as genuine Hunterrrs. Rrrrememberrrr, they rrrrely on technology."

"Yeah, you can say that former part again..."

"Listen, I'm sorrrrrry that happened, Frrrreelancerrr, I trrrruly thought they were good soldierrrs, I placed much faith in them."

The Colonel scratches his head nervously.

"Dearrr Gog, the backlash the Corrrps would have rrrreceived if word got out it's soldierrrs caused a Hunterrrr to die..." He says under his breath. But you heard it, and an invisible smirk comes across your face.

"That might be pretty bad, huh? But how bad would it be if word got out about how the Corps at large really is?"

"Y-You'rrrre not going to go sprrreading that arrrround, arrre you?! Please, I'd prrrefer that didn't leave this office! I know they'rrrre bad, but it falls within my duty to make surrrre theirrrr rrreputation isn't harrrmed either! I don't want you to not want to help me eitherrr! I'll let you go alone next Urrrgent!"

>I won't tell, IF you give me a discount on those Zorah materials.
>Let me have the materials I need for free or I'll tell everyone I see.
>Don't worry, I won't tell anybody. Just keep those guys out of my way next time. And while you're at it, try and get them actual training, whatever cub-courses they went through isn't cutting it.
>Write in.

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>>4110245
Holy shit, I didn't expect this to turn into a blackmail scenario.

>>4110245
>"I'm not really one for blackmail. I wouldn't actively ruin the reputation of anybody who didn't deserve it, seeing as you didn't get to choose who to deploy here, but I would suggest that you get your soldiers learning, fast, before somebody less scrupulous comes by."
>"That being said, I wouldn't mind making a down payment on that Zorah skull and paying the rest off later, as compensation."
This work?

>>4110245
Lmao, poor Vance has Defender PTSD now.
Backing >>4110295, the Colonel's a good man so I'd rather not do him dirty with blackmail.

Say, can we get our new Gunlance delivered to the Guiding Lands once it's done?

>>4110295
I'll back this. Vance doesn't seem the type to blackmail. But, those materials would be nice.
That and I want an elder dragon set. Was hoping something would come of yama, as his set is sexy, but I'll take what I can get.

>>4110316
>can we get our new Gunlance delivered to the Guiding Lands once it's done?
Hm, what for?

>>4110455
We'll need it to slay Chameleos.

>>4110295
Support this one, it seems fair considering his "elite forces" screwed up big time.

>"I'm not really one for blackmail. I wouldn't actively ruin the reputation of anybody who didn't deserve it, seeing as you didn't get to choose who to deploy here, but I would suggest that you get your soldiers learning, fast, before somebody less scrupulous comes by."

"Oh! Yes, I will see to that. I must call forrrrr an instrrrructorrrr frrrom the Old Worrrld. You have my worrrrd, I'll get those weenies trrrained." The Colonel swore.

You nodded, trusting that he would.

>"That being said, I wouldn't mind making a down payment on that Zorah skull and paying the rest off later, as compensation."

"Hmmm...."

"Well chum, you should know that the Second Fleet Masterrrr will still charrrge you the prrrrice forrr making the set if you bought the materrrials herrre and now. But if you insist on getting it, I would be willing to parrrt with them for a down payment now of...."

"...Twenty thousand Zenny. You'll pay the rrrrest off in two months time as a deadline. What do you say?"

"Let me think about it..." You say.

"Mmm... If what ye' want is an Elderrrr's set, why not just purrrrchase yourrrr verrry own limited time Yama set from the smithy?"

"Huh? What do you mean?"

"Well, you didn't hearrrr? Guess not, you might not have stuck arrround longerrr in Tilokpia. The Yama was carrrved for a mighty bounty of materrrials and the Second Fleet Masterrrr is willing to make sets of what's left for a price. Maybe he forgot to tell you."

>I'll take your Zorah materials. Can you have them shipped to my room?
>On second thought, I'll hold out on buying any materials right now.
>Write in.

>>4110806
Yama or Zorah? Considering our situation which would be better? QM if we ask for the Yama full set what would be the full set bonus?

>>4110806
>On second thought, I'll hold out on buying any materials right now.
QUICK, GRAB ALL THE MERNOS!

Actually, yeah, I agree with >>4110823.

>>4110806
+1 question. Bpth sets will be master/G rank?

>>4110823
Zorah has great fire resistance, but shit everything else. Yama has good fire, water, and thunder resistance and shit ice/dragon.

Does gunlance utilize artillery? Swaxe and dual blade main here. Zorah gives bonus to artillery.

>>4110859
>Does gunlance utilize artillery.
Yes.

>>4110869
Then let's wait on word of god on what yama gives us. Needing fire resist with boosted artillery seems good, but yama may prove better in the long run.

>>4110806
I'll take that shot in the dark. Reaffirming >>4110825.

By the way, we still don't know what the Set Bonus for our Khezu armor is, if there is any.

>>4110977
As per the wiki skills are esp, quick eating, para dur halved, hunger increase Lo. Here are the armor piece quotes.

Masterpiece of an Asian artisan. No matter what you try, it's Shatterproof.

Masterpiece of an Asian artisan. Said to awaken your sixth sense.

Masterpiece of an Asian artisan. Fight continuously with the utmost confidence.

Masterpiece of an Asian artisan. Said to change the heart of an evil person.

Masterpiece of an Asian artisan. Trackers are sure to reach their prey.

>>4110977
I'm actually unsure as to what a Yaksha Set Bonus would be.

Okay I thought of some skills for those sets.

Full Yama set will grant 'Yama Tsukami Divinity', which gives almost complete resistance to Paralysis and faster recovery from exhaustion by Stamina Surge. The other normal bonuses are Speed Eating, Evade Extender and Tremor Resistance.

Khezu's set bonus 'Khezu Ambition' makes the wearer almost invisible at night even after being spotted initially, but it eventually wares off after being spotted too many times. It also makes sneak attacks more damaging with a modifier. It's normal set bonuses are Wide-Range, Earplugs and Thunder Attack.

Your thoughts?

>>4111038
So Khezu gives us a pseudo amokw bomb at night and Yama give us lots of resists and evasion, I say go for Yama, Better elemental resists all around and better evasion and resistance to tremors.

>>4111048
>amokw
Smoke.

>>4111038
Why tremor resistance though? Why not wind resistance?

>>4111060
Yama doesn't fly traditionally, he floats so he has no use to make of wind or air except for his attacks that involve inhaling. Since Yama floats, it doesn't encounter tremors, this carries over to the armor.

>>4111038
I say yama. Better all rounder armor it seems. Should be useful unless we have a night hunt, that khezu bonus is neat.

>>4111038
>>4111090
So does it give extra levels of stamina surge? Lvl 5 or such. Also, with the floaty bit, would airborne make sense as well? It's a one and done skill and seems thematically appropriate.

>>4111127
Yes. And you know what? Airborne does make some sense too given Yama likes to try and bodyslam from above, so I'll let it have that one too.

>>4111155
A saint.

In down time does anybody wanna spitball other monsters armor sets?Gravios, Jaggi, Steve, Plesioth, Akantor... am I missing any?

"Thanks for the offer, but I'm going to go back on it for now actually."

"Verrrry well, as you wish."

"Tell me, when's the last time your 'sneak thief' was messing around?"

"Just yesterrrrrday in fact. It stole a whole crrrrate of potions! Those potions are costly. I expect it will next show tomorrrrrrow."

"And your giant?"

"My strrrrategist has told me it may be anywherrrrre between now and next week that the giant will appearrrr again to attack."

"And you think it's a Lao-Shan Lung?"

"Weeeelllll.... maybe. We only seen it when a storrrrrm was coming through, we werrrre prrrretty surrrre we saw the outline of one's head. Howeverrrr, my strrrrategist has offerrrred that it could also verrrry well be anotherrrr Monsterrrr known to wear Lao-Shan skulls as arrrrmor. Shen Gaoren. It's a rrrrreally big crrrrustacean."

"I see."

You nodded to the Colonel and raised your hand.

"I'll get your problems solved, you have my word."

"Take yourrr time, and thanks, for keeping ourrrr secrrrret."

"Any time."

With that, you left the Colonel to his business and exited The Fort, going over to a hitching post and calling a Mernos so that you could travel back to Astera.

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Landing down at the Smithy, you burst in suddenly and the Second Fleet Master and his workers were all started as you slammed your hands down on the belt.

"SECOND FLEET MASTER SIR! I'D LIKE TO COMMISSION YOU FOR YAMA ARMOR!"

Quiet.

"...."

"Oooohhh! Yes, I almost forgot about it! Heh heh heh.... well, I did forget to tell you. The Commander has told me that I am to make armor for the victors of the Siege if they should want it."

"Well, I'm here now. Think you can make time to make it?"

"Now what kinda question is that, Freeelancer? I'll take all the work in Astera on my plate at once and I'll chomp it down to size with a sprinkle of salt and hash if I have to! Of course I'll make Yama armor!"

"But..." The Second Fleet Master says.

He reaches behind his conveyor belt and pulls out something large that even he is troubled to lift. It's one of Yama Tsukami's whiskers.

"...these parts o' Yama's are huge! It'll take some considerable time. I'd say a week at minimum."

"Well... Yama Tsukami's a big monster." You say.

"Indeed, for us all. Now, there is one more thing, since I've already gathered a price..."

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"You'll have to choose between Alpha or Beta as usual. Like most Old World sets, they'll be refurbished from their old Blademaster and Gunner models."

"It'll cost eighty seven thousand Zenny. Your choice, laddy."

Damn, that was almost all your money, you'd be left with about two thousand if you made this purchase.

Will you really commission this set?

>>4111260
I prefer the beta set it looks cooler, and don't forget to ask about our zinogre gunlance.

>>4111260
Beta is better hands down

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>>4111274
>>4111276
Your choice, it's a matter of taste after all but
>dissing the heavenly king armor
Ishggydyggy

>>4111260
Always beta.
Also, is the sfm in seliana or back in astera? Either way i dont think we've been to the welder yet.

>>4111310
He returned to Astera and the Young Smithy that replaced him in Iceborne is in Seliana instead.

>>4111260
Do it, get beta.
>>4111309
Don't worry OP I also like it but we need beta for decos.

While we're here should we sell off some of our other components to lessen the blow of this purchase?

>>4111327
Let's well sell the basarios parts, we might make some change out of it.

>>4111260
I want Alpha but I'm clearly outvoted. I just hope that's still before Akantor breaks loose.

Also that Khezu Set Bonus is great.

Forking out the right amount from your pockets and emptying your satchel of purses, you covered the costs and solidified your position.

"I'll take it."

The Second Fleet Master stored your spent money away and gave you a gesture with his fist.

"You won't regret your decision lad! I swear on my mother's unmarked grave! Hah hah hah!"

"So one week's time then?"

"Yes, one weeks time. Your Zinogre weapon should also be done a bit sooner then usual too, try tomorrow night. See, I had a vital boiler that went out, but one of me lads back there managed to get the thing working again, which will help me speed up the process somewhat."

"Alright, I'll be there."

Well, that was done and there wasn't any turning back now. Tomorrow night you could collect your Zinogre Gunlance and six... seven days from now your new Tsukami set.

You were a bit low on cash. You decide to leave the Smithy and go down to the Resource Station, where you sell your Basarios materials for a hefty sum of Zenny. You totaled back out at 11412 Zenny.

It was midday now.

>Let's go take our next Urgent.
>Let's take a normal quest.
>Expedition time now.
>Let's visit someone.
>Let's stay in for today and wake up early.
>Write in.

Test

>>4111509
>midday
Huh.

>Let's visit someone.
Let's see Shara and ask about why that Zinogre decided to help us, while we're still on Astera, then see Tabitabi. Who knows, we may find the Zinogre in question there, too. All I know is that we should take a reprieve and maybe go on a night hunt for the Ukanlos.

>>4111527
Supporting.

Also, are you positive we should try fighting MOTHERFUCKING UKANLOS this early? We may have a fire weapon but it's a weak shit Anjanath one. We'd basically be trying to kill an iceberg with a zippo.

>>4111588
>are you positive we should try fighting MOTHERFUCKING UKANLOS this early
I suppose that we can wait until tomorrow, with our Usurper's Roar, but can the Velkhana do the same? We could also take the Lagi quest instead.

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You had some questions unanswered and you didn't get the chance to ask them yet, so you went and returned back home to your room.

You knock on Atricia's door and let them know you're finally home at last. They welcome you back in and you see they've been hanging with one another all day long, playing with Shara and his favorite toys and going through old books as they had some food.

You thank Atricia for her help and pick up Shara to go back home with you. Vivianne wants to stay a little longer, so you allow the Felyne to do so while Atricia tells you to visit again soon, and that she really enjoyed your company.

You take your leave, going back to your own room and locking the door behind yourself, setting Shara down and taking a seat, grabbing one of the nearby bottles of root beer to drink.

You inhale and put yourself at ease as Shara looks up at you curiously.

"Okay..." You think, entering the connection again.

"So, do you know what a Zinogre is?"

"I am not familiar with most of these names you Humans have invented for the fauna of the world."

"It's a big blue and yellow creature with white hair and it uses Fulgur bugs to gather lightning."

"Ahhh... Now I know what creature you talk of. You speak of the thunderous wolves. That is a species that has existed even before Mankind was in it's prime."

"Huh? Really? Zinogres are that old?"

"Indeed. Their survival to now really shows their prowess off. I believe they devolved actually, it is blurry. What of it concerns you?"

"Well, today I captured one, but before that it tried to fight a Rajang. A big ape monster that turns golden. Not a lot of Hunters mess around with the Rajangs, not even the bravest. If it weren't for me, that Zinogre would be dead. It tried to fight Rajang, but why?"

"The wolves of thunder do not give up, not in the face of any enemy. They are willing to fight anything, even Dragons if they feel their pride or territory is threatened."

"Seemed like it wanted to team up today..."

"Do not think of it like that, this 'Zinogre' shouldn't have such an intention, it wouldn't be like their kind. No, it fought on the grounds of dominance and dominance alone. It would have attacked you again had it prevailed against this 'Rajang'."

"Hm."

"Is that all you wished to speak of, Human name Vance?"

What will you do now?

>>4111721
Ask if it want play some games.

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"Do you want to play a game?"

"No."

"Okay..."

>....?

>>4111768
Well let's go to the arena and see Tabitabi then.

"Well, I guess I'll take you back to Atricia for now."

"Very well. Do not hesitate if you need to consult me again, Human."

Picking up Shara, you took him back to Atricia's new room and dropped him off with her again, saying that you had something more to do after all. She doesn't question you and happily takes him back as you leave off.

It's been a while, so you decided to go back to the Arena and check on Tabitabi, flying over there with a Mernos.

Arriving, you go through the usual way after greeting the engineer and walking through the way to the storage.

Entering the storage room, you made your way down until you came across the cage holding Tabitabi, the researcher assigned to her was there as usual too, he greets you with a quiet wave before returning to his work.

You heard another familiar grunt from behind and looked over to see a cage containing that Zinogre you went after. It's the same one, gotta be, it has the same broken horns and scars you gave it.

You looked back at Tabitabi's cage and noticed the door was wide open and you saw her sleeping there inside the cage. However, you stopped upon seeing what the researcher was working with. A set of large needles and serums in capped flasks.

"Hey." You say as you step over. "What are you doing with those?"

"O-Oh! I'm preparing them for administering. I already put her to sleep with some laced meat and sleeping powder."

"What is that?"

"Medicinal extracts, I was told to give the Tobi-Kadachi all of them to see what effects it could have on it's latent immune system, and to treat it for any possible diseases it might have."

"That's not going to have any bad side effects, right?"

"I'm not sure, we've never before attempted medicinal research with a species like this. Anything could happen."

Anything is never a good answer.

>"As Tabitabi's trainer and guardian, I do not approve of you injecting her with these xenobiotic devil juices."
>"I guess if you were told by the higher ups in Research then I can't stop you, but be very careful with her using those."
>Go over and check out the Zinogre.
>Write in.

>>4111817
Just ask him to be careful with her, let's check some quests.

"If it must be done. Just, whatever you do, be careful with her, okay?"

"Don't worry, I'll do my best not to hurt her. We're positive these serums won't be harmful."

You nod to the researcher and leave the storage then. As you walked on your way out, you passed a glance to the Zinogre, who looked you over as you passed by before setting it's head down again and snorting.

You flew back to Astera then and decided to look over the Quests.

It appears some new ones were added in the time between the siege not long ago and now.

Quests: https://pastebin.com/hSf9iAep
(New quests starting at line 276)

What will you do?

>The Tundra Blues
Might make for some good practice against Ukanlos.

>>4111983
Support

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>>4111957
>(Special Assingment) Bloody Cooperation.
I am very much intrigued.

>>4112050
Oh shit that is what it is isn't it? Well count me in, we'll do that after the Jade Barroth.

>>4112109
...Okay, I can agree with that. We can capture the beastie fast enough I think.
Besides, it's just a Barroth Subspecies it can't be that tough.

What do you guys think the other one is, since this new one is Bloodborne?

>>4112244
Oh, huh. I totally scrolled over that one.
No idea though, nothing about the name or the description seem familiar to me.

>>4112244
Don't you worry. Whatever happens, you may think it all a mere bad dream.

What do you think we'll fight in the BB quest?

>>4113062
Amelia, maybe?

inb4 we fight everything, including DLC bosses

>>4113062
The question is whether qm let's us in on "onions beasts are people!!?" Or not. Cleric beast, blood starved, or one of the shark giants from the dlc could be enough of a threat. But, if it is an animal the snakes from the forbidden woods could work. Maybe a darkbeast. But not an old one that's for true.
However it's a bell. It could be a beckoning bell and we call in a hunter for aid, or worse we are beckoned to the dream or get invaded.
My hope is a cleric beast so we can craft the brador's set.

https://bloodborne.wiki.fextralife.com/Brador%27s+Set

>>4113119
Seriously. A ***lent green quote was to much? Whatever.

Regardless, qm has done a great job so far so whatever happens will be enjoyable.

>>4113119
Personally? I'd like to have the Old Hunter set or Constable set. I hope we can get a Whirligig too, maybe as a CB.

>>4113174
Some of the Bloodborne weapons could be translated well into Monster Hunter as is without big changes - Whirligig as CB, Kirkhammer is obvious, Blades of Mercy as DB, Ludwig's Holy Blade as GS, Simon's Bowblade is obvious too, Chikage as LS...
After those I think it gets a little complicated because the weapons would need to go through either mechanical or visual changes.
for Sword and Shield you'd have to pair the Plank or Loch Shield with one of the few single handed BB weapons.

>>4113119
Post yfw we encounter the Hunter,but all grown up.

>>4113265
Your moon ain't haunted? Beasts are just overgrown pests? No religious fanatics ruining everything? I could get used to this...

>>4113291
You ever think they possibly hate how they ended up at the end? They just wanted some medicine, after all.

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You decide it would be best first to get yourself truly attuned to the harshness of Hoarfrost Reach. If you were to ever fight Ukanlos in the future like you wanted, you'd need to get used to the Hinterlands, and what better way to do that than against a creature of ice from the Hinterlands such as Jade Barroth?

Taking the quest into your satchel, you make sure everything is in order before departing to the Reach by wingdrake.

...

HINTERLANDS
7:32 PM. Closing midday...

You stood now on the edge of a snowy cliff. You had already ate from Gramma's canteen and made out into the Hinterlands, avoiding crossing paths with a Banbaro and Beotodes as you went.

You looked down now into a little snowy place to see your target walking along. Jade Barroth. You know what? Honestly? If you weren't out to kill, you'd have to admit you thought Barroths were actually quite cute for a species of big brutish wyverns that bathed in mud and snow. Can't think of it like that now though, might make you regret doing this.

The thing was rolling around in super thick layers of snow to coat itself. From the looks of it, with snow that deep, it wouldn't be easy fighting it down there., you had to use some options at hand.

There's a giant dead tree over to the right there, it has a hot thermal pond boiling underneath it. If you could get Jade Barroth to charge it, the tree would collapse right on top of the monster and force it down into the pond, hurting it and melting it's armor.

There was as well a Barioth you spotted up high a while ago on my way here, it was near these edges that looked quite unstable. Perhaps you could use some slinger ammo and get the Jade Barroth's attention and lead it back there for a turf war.

Besides that, there seemed to be a big hole in the ground nearby that went down into a icy little cave shaft.

>Let's use the tree to our advantage. That thickly packed snow armor is the most important part to deal with first.
>Barioth will come in handy here. Let's lead Barroth to it for a turf war.
>We could use our fire weapon to melt some snow and make it moist, then have the Barroth charge and slip on it down into the icy cave.
>We have our Khezu set on. Let's use it to deal a good sneak attack and then mount the Barroth.
>Write in.

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>>4113386
>You know what? Honestly? If you weren't out to kill, you'd have to admit you thought Barroths were actually quite cute for a species of big brutish wyverns that bathed in mud and snow.
aaaaaaaaa why didn't we take any traps with us

>>4113386
>>Let's use the tree to our advantage. That thickly packed snow armor is the most important part to deal with first.

>>4113386
While I am VERY curious about what's in that ice cave...
>Let's use the tree to our advantage. That thickly packed snow armor is the most important part to deal with first.

Standing up from the cliff you stood at as you drank a Hot Drink, you went and ran forward and jumped out into the snow, the Jade Barroth noticing you and looking over tensely as you wallowed through the snow and came to the edge of the thermal pond there.

The thing gave out a warning roar as you stepped into this place it claimed, but you ignored it and picked up some stones to load into your slinger. Standing up above the snow and aiming it, you fired two at the Jade Barroth's head, hitting it and making it flinch from how sudden it was.

The thing was already thin on patience and became aggressive, stomping over to confront you and drive you away.

You waited until it was close enough to strike before you used your slinger hook to latch onto one of the dead tree's limbs, pulling yourself out of it's reach and forcing it to step back. It came forward, bashing into the tree with it's crown to knock you down, but all it did was make the giant tree fall, right on top of it.

You jumped off to the side and landed in the snow while the Jade Barroth was suddenly pulled down by the weight of the tree smashing over it, pinning it down into the thermal pond and melting it's snow armor off.

You dug yourself out and stepped up to attack. Only it's tail was reachable. The thermal pond was too hot for you to touch, it would burn you easily.

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

Jade Barroth Health 1300

200 damage dealt by falling tree hazard.

You. (Healthy)

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

>Roll a 1d100 to damage or sever the tail.

Rolled 28 (1d100)

>>4113613
*shunk*

>>4113623
fuck

Rolled 16 (1d100)

>>4113613

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>>4113650
Oh no.

We need that third roll soon...

Rolled 15 (1d100)

>>4113613
This looks like a job for me

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We're not off to a goof start.

It makes sense, in a way. We probably didn't bother sharpening after Basarios.

You tried your best to hit the Barroth's tail, but it flipped out of your reach and threatened to knock you into the boiling thermal pond.

You could only shell it for minimal damage, and land one slice with your bayonet. The tail remained virtually unharmed.

The Jade Barroth regained it's footing and got out from being pinned by the tree, which it bashed with it's crown to splinters and halved as it slung hot water about.

You raise your arms to block the boiling water after sheathing your weapon, and are hit as it swings it's tail at you, throwing you through the air.

You land hard into the packed snow, sinking down within it and masking your in it. The Jade Barroth had also into the dive, which was at least five feet deep in this one little area. It was making more snow armor, you could see that by looking up out of the hole you made landing, which was shaped like you.

Perhaps.. you could dig yourself through this snow like a Diablos and use it to your advantage, your Khezu set made you blend right in.

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

Jade Barroth Health 1248

52 damage dealt by attempted attack.

You. (Wounded/Iceblight)

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

Come to think of it, you forgot to bring traps. Damn it. Well, at least you could sharpen your weapon here, which you go ahead and do.

You feel a shiver and your nostrils have gone cold. You might be under Iceblight now, it would make you exhaust much easier. You need to find a thermal pond to dive in, one that isn't too hot but just 'right'.

>Let's crawl underneath the Jade Barroth and go for a sneak attack to it's soft underbelly.
>Let's crawl away and jump down into the ice cave. There's a wedge beetle above it so we can get out easily.
>Let's retreat for now and seek out a thermal pond.
>Write in.

>>4113703
>Iceblight
Can't do anything that expends too much stamina.

>Let's retreat for now and seek out a thermal pond.

>>4113724
Then again, we might not be so fortunate to find any against Ukanlos so this might be a good time to learn how to deal with it.

>>4113703
Changing to
>Let's crawl underneath the Jade Barroth and go for a sneak attack to it's soft underbelly.

Pushing your way down into the thick snow, you claw it aside as you crawl forward towards where the Jade Barroth stood over.

You got down on both knees and and went through, using your feet and shoulders to tunnel. The Jade Barroth overhead was searching around, looking for where you were when you peeked up briefly out of the snow to see it's position.

With it's position in your sights, you kicked yourself into overdrive digging through the snow. You felt like a Diablos going through the dirt to burst out and brutalize a Rathian. It was exciting!

And also taxing. You felt immense fatigue as you finally reached underneath the Jade Barroth's position. Your Iceblight condition had drained you to collapsing onto your hands underneath the layers of snow. You gasped for breath and shivered, your teeth clicking as you tried to catch some air.

The Jade Barroth above heard the clicking, and lowered it's head down to the snow you were underneath, sniffing before it caught the scent of your rubbery Khezu hide.

You heard it snort.

Oh Gog, what was iAAAWGGGGHHHH!

You were crunched down into the earth as the Jade Barroth suddenly slammed down onto you with it's crown!

You were going to try and get yourself out, but it does so again, uncovering you from the snow and revealing your battered form. You groaned in pain as it looked down at you.

Then it raised it's head again...

The last slam did not come just yet. You remember closing your eyes and bracing your for it, but you didn't feel anything.

That was weird, you were pretty sure you were about to be-

"MREOW!"

UNGH!

....

...Huh? Wait, that wasn't the slam either that was... Oh, you had just been thrown off a cart into a camp by the Felyne life insurance agents.

Well, that sure didn't go as planned, but at least you didn't feel anymore pain, and your Iceblight was gone... If you get beaten that bad again, you might not come back the next few times...

That Jade Barroth got lucky! You wouldn't have been beaten like that normally! You got to do something about it this time again.

>Let's just march right back out there and try to fight it head on again.
>There's some barrel bombs and lamp oil here at this camp. Maybe we can create fire with it to melt the snow and get a better fighting chance.
>There's an area with falling cliffs that can break off I know of here from the map. Let's go out and lure it there.
>We should make a pitstop back to Seliana and buy a few things we're missing, maybe restock as well.
>Write in.

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>>4113918
>bombs and lamp oil
Are there materials for a line trap?

>>4113918
>There's some barrel bombs and lamp oil here at this camp. Maybe we can create fire with it to melt the snow and get a better fighting chance.
No way am I trusting cliffs against a Barroth.

>>4113953
Nope, this is dumb. We have Khezu armor and w/e that vapor stuff is called.

>>4113918
>We should make a pitstop back to Seliana and buy a few things we're missing, maybe restock as well.
I don't want to cart again.

Not wishing to go out unprepared again, you whistle for a Mernos and grab hold of it to fly back to Seliana. Come to think of, how could they operate here actually? Aren't these conditions too harsh for them?

...

Well, if they could manage, you weren't about to question it.

You landed back in Seliana then, dropping off right at the front gate and walking in. The Provisions stockpile here was over there waiting for you. You went to Gramma's again and ordered another piping hot meal for the gains before you stepped back out into the cold and approached the provisions stockpile manager.

"Eyyy!" He says, crouching down. "Whatdd'ya need, little man?"

You thought over it then, what you would stock up on.

+============+
https://pastebin.com/tEiVJgb1
https://monsterhunterworld.wiki.fextralife.com/Items

Carefully examine your current items and the item list, then state what Vance will purchase.

>>4114104
A Shock Trap, a Pitfall Trap, 8 Trang Bombs, 5 more Hot Drinks and 3 Smoke Bombs.

I think we should be fine with these for now.

>>4114104
Go with this >>4114125 but also restock everything else.

Pulling out enough to cover the costs, you purchased a variety of items from the provisions stockpiler. You resupplied on things such as potions and enhancers, making sure you had the right amount of each, the most you could carry.

You are left with nearly empty pocket, only about four thousand and seven hundred zenny left behind. You're going to need to get a lot more after this, you'll have to do a big job with a lot of pay...

With all the supplies now in hand, you whistle for the Mernos and return to the Hinterland wilderness.

Once you are back at camp, you drink one of your Hot Drinks and set out again, following your scoutflies out into the frozen region. You narrowly avoid the sight of the Barioth from before again and get back out there.

You come to a stop at the edge of the same cliff from before. The Jade Barroth is still there, nesting around in the snow. It was sleeping now, but that snow was still impairing your movement in the area.

You had all your supplies now and could still return to the nearby camp for those bombs and lamp oil to set fire anywhere with.

If you were going to capture the Jade Barroth as well, you'd have to make sure it was within reach of Seliana. The staff there aren't as numerous as Astera, and they won't come out to collect something this far into the snowy and unforgiving stretches of the Reach.

What will you do now?

>>4114180
Go with the bomb plan.

>>4114180
>>4114219
If we DO do it, pay extra care to stay downwind and avoid getting flammables on us.

The plan now you had is simple. You just needed to melt that snow and then weaken the Jade Barroth before getting it to follow you out closer to the range of Seliana. That could be done easily with the lamp oil and barrel bombs you saw.

You quickly return to the camp and grab the oil and two bombs, carrying them along with you as you left, having to use your slinger hook to drag them up vine walls with you. The lamp oil was different from that of which you'd find anywhere else. It was extremely flammable and even more so than other fuels used to power things out there. The lamps containing it were specially designed for winter conditions, feeding it to the flame in a way that prevented it from exploding.

Sometimes, you knew people used these winter lamps as molotovs or smaller bombs which there was no better alternative. They weren't burning now and you heard the oil splashing inside the container, so you only needed to chuck them and blow a barrel bomb up to burn it all down.

Coming back to the cliff, the Jade Barroth below was no longer sleeping and looked over, noticing you on the cliff. It stood up and gave out another warning roar.

You took the lamps and threw them out into the snowy grounds, the lids coming off and spreading the brown oil about all over the snow as they went through the air.

You had to spin once as you threw one of the barrel bombs out. The Jade Barroth was confused by your moves and leaned down to sniff the lamp oil just as you lit the fuse for your last bomb and hold it up high.

"Let's heat things up!"

You threw the last barrel bomb then, it went out and landed in the snow...

File: Take you to burn.png (172 KB, 512x351)

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As soon as that second barrel bomb exploded and caught the other and the lamp oil in it, you had an inferno going! It was like staring into Yama Tsukami's mouth that one time!

The Jade Barroth was covered in fires and the snow around was melted to water quickly, but the flames still persisted as the thick oil from the lamps mixed in with the water and was pushed to the top of it, still burning.

The Jade Barroth thrashed around to oust the flames, rolling across the ground and jumping about. The flames burned for long enough that the snow was all almost melted and there was plenty of space to effectively fight the Jade Barroth in now, save for some flames still dancing around there.

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

Jade Barroth Health: 1247

124 damage dealt by fiery combustion.

You. (Healthy)

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

>Jump in and use your clutch claw to drive the Jade Barroth into a wall.
>Go and try to disable it's knees with a Wyrmstake rod and shells to trip it.
>Use your slinger hook to grab the wedge beetle and jump to mount it.
>Make some noise and let it follow you elsewhere.
>Write in.

>>4115149
>Go and try to disable it's knees with a Wyrmstake rod and shells to trip it.
Watch your step.

Leaping down and casting yourself to the area, you splashed into at least three feet of water, but it didn't do much to hinder you as your feet pushed through and carried you over to the Jade Barroth still shaking the flames off of it's body.

You struck fast, holding your breath as you waded through a cloud of smoke. The Jade Barroth attempted to stomp in order to repel you, but your shield took in the brunt of it and allowed you to continually attack. You fired shells at the joints, targeting the softest parts of it's legs and reloading.

You fired a charged shell into it's toe, chipping it off and making the Jade Barroth try to jump on you. You dived right under the thing and came out underneath it's tail, where you fired another charged shell into the back of it's knee. It staggered, which prompted you to press your barrel into the back of it's leg and shoot a Wyrmstake rod into the flesh.

The Jade Barroth wiggled it's leg in shock at the burn as the rod heated up, and then the monster was toppled onto it's side as the rod exploded. The Jade Barroth fell right into more flames, which quickly worked up it's carapace.

>Choose a body part to attack. (Crown, Claws, Legs, Tail)
>1d100 to land a powerful blow.
>Whoever has the highest roll decides what is attacked and how much damage is dealt.

Rolled 73 (1d100)

>>4115306
>Claws
BOOM SHACKA-LACKA

Lunging forward, you struck at the claws of the Jade Barroth, hitting them with enough force to shatter their tips.

You brought your Gunlance down, smashing the hands of the Jade Barroth before unleashing a blast from your shells, breaking the claws off completely and deforming it's hands.

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

Jade Barroth Health: 835

200 damage dealt by part breaking.

90 damage dealt by fire hazard.

You. (Healthy)

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

The Jade Barroth attempted to rise up higher now, but slips on the water pooling below, giving you a clear shot at it's head.

You saw it's eyes clearly visible. If you could drive your bayonet into it's socket, you'd be able to blow out it's brains and skull with a powerful blast.

Only problem is the fires spreading now as the oil snakes across the top of the water.

Will you risk some burns in order to get a chance at finishing the Jade Barroth off easily?

>Let's risk it. We can be done with it here and now and on our way back to Seliana.
>Let's not, let's pull back and let it get out to follow us away from the flames.

>>4115401
>Let's not, let's pull back and let it get out to follow us away from the flames.

>>4115401
>Let's risk it. We can be done with it here and now and on our way back to Seliana.

>>4115428
We still have that Yama gunk on us, anon. If we get it to follow us then we can prepare a sneak attack.

>>4115436
Crap that's right. Okay switching to support you then.

>>4115436
We also don't want to forget about the traps we bought.

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You weren't going to risk getting near that fire however, the burning gas from Yama Tsukami was still settled within your pores, so you turn back and run towards the cliff again as the Jade Barroth stands back up and charges after you. It slips again in the water, which is icing over from the cold, hitting it's crown into the edge of the cliff as you pull yourself up over it and slide away down the snow.

The thing gave chase, but you were faster and able to outwit it as you got it lost through the trees. You dashed through the snow as it prowled about, searching all over for any trace of you there was to find.

You hid yourself in a bush as it strutted about, knocking over some trees to try and find you. You waited until the right moment that it had searched long enough to almost want to give up before you abused the bonus your set granted.

You lunged forward! You brought your Gunlance out and dealt a sneak attack to the Jade Barroth's soft underbelly!

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

Jade Barroth Health: 535

300 damage dealt by sneak attack!

You won't be able to land another sneak attack.

You. (Wounded/Iceblight)

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

The Jade Barroth backed up and counterattacked almost immediately, swooping down and bashing you with it's crown to throw you aside into the snow.

You couldn't block in time, but you got up fast. You however felt the same chill coming down yourself again. Iceblight, once more hampering your stamina!

Fortunately, the Jade Barroth was also exhausted. The fires really worked their way on it, as it's body wasn't attuned to warmth.

>Block it's incoming attacks as best we can to tire it out first.
>Foresee it's next attack and try to counter it with another after.
>Ready the traps and attempt to capture it now.

It might just try to use its weight and slam down on us again, given how tired it is, now that I think about it.

>>4115572
>Foresee it's next attack and try to counter it with another after.
Pop a Nullberry and attempt to dodge to the side, then shell it into capture range.

You quickly reached for a Nulberry then, shoving the fruit into your mouth and barely chewing it as you took it down and raised your shield in preparation.

The Jade Barroth came forward and tried again to sweep at you with it's crown, failing as you blocked it and could keep up better than it could. You didn't falter as it tried to clip you with it's tail and stomp the ground to tremor you. It couldn't work up enough force as all it did with pound the snowy dirt hard.

You kept your shield steady as it backed up far off and came at you charging with all it's might.

The Jade Barroth's crown rammed into your shield, forcing you back as your boots scratched the ground. You were carried as the Jade Barroth gave it all it got to send you back, but you wouldn't let off your feet and were almost pushed against an ice wall when the Jade Barroth finally stopped and backed up, gasping for breath in it's severe exhaustion.

>Try to trap it now.
>Continue weakening it. (Roll a 1d200.)

>>4115610
>>Try to trap it now.

>>4115699
Supporting this

It's time to risk it for that biscuit

You calmly sheathed your weapon then as the Jade Barroth panted. Reaching around into your satchel, you pull out the Shock Trap you had and set it down on the ground in front of you.

The Jade Barroth pays it no heed as it sparks there on the ground. You step back and wait as the thing finishes it's panting and shakes it's head.

All too easily, it steps forward and it's foot lands on the trap, sending the electrical current flowing through it's leg and up into it's body, disabling it and locking the monster in place for you.

You calmly walk forward and pull out your Tranquilizer Bombs, you smash on against it's head so that the fumes are inhaled as it breathes there hard from the electricity. It takes nearly four of them, but the Jade Barroth can endure no more intake of the dust, and so collapses down onto the ground, successfully captured and bagged.

With your primary objective at hand, you whistle for a Mernos and fly back to Seliana.

In Seliana, you report the success of your quest with the nearby resources station and the direct assistant of the Analytics Director.

You are paid for your deed and total now 11614 Zenny. The assistant informs you that the Jade Barroth is close enough to capture from your description and so says that a team will be sent out to retrieve it now.

You tip your hood to that and so decide to leave now that your business is concluded.

You call for a Mernos and fly back to Astera the long way.

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It is nighttime when you arrive back in Astera, you must have been there for at least three hours now.

The moon is bright in the sky overhead as you walk back through the tradeyard. Strangely, there didn't seem to be a soul out here right now, besides the shapes of some other late arriving Hunters you see farther off, Astera is mostly asleep now.

The Sapphire Star was still up and out, you see him standing around the council table with the Commander and Admiral, all of them talking about something quietly, with the Admiral giving out a chuckle you heard from here.

Past that way and back at the housing building you come back upon your room. There is a dim light still on in Atricia's room, so you knew she must have still been up. You'd know the difference between the dim light of a fire and candles, of which she was still burning both.

>Let's get Vivi and Shara and rest up for tomorrow.
>I'm still... energetic... it's weird. Maybe we could do something else after all...
>Let's talk to somebody.
>Write in.

>>4116013
>I'm still... energetic... it's weird. Maybe we could do something else after all...
Mystery option?

>>4116013
>I'm still... energetic... it's weird. Maybe we could do something else after all...

>>4116013
>I'm still... energetic... it's weird. Maybe we could do something else after all...
I think we're supposed to say what we should do.

I say we should go do the special assignment.

>>4116013
>I'm still... energetic... it's weird. Maybe we could do something else after all...
Let's try to do one of those midnight time hunter games we couldn't do back when we defeated Yama

You don't feel like quitting right now, don't feel like going to slumber at this very moment. Your body is burning with energy and your muscles aren't sore. You simply won't be able to sleep like this.

Was it that bright moonlight? Was your brain mistaking it for sunlight? The moon was particularly enormous in the sky today.

Well, no use standing around then, if you weren't going to be able to catch any rest right now, better to do something with this free time. You start by going over to the lift and using it to get up to the Canteen. There are many familiar faces here, you see Brigg and Balthazar, Zane and Kentaro. The Canteen is still mostly populated and the Chef isn't closing just yet.

>Let's gather the boys and play the Midnight Game now.
>Let's go look over the quest board again. (https://pastebin.com/hSf9iAep)
>We could try taking on another urgent now.
>We could see if we could take Tabitabi out on a walk in the forest.
>Now is a perfect time, let's seek out and question the First Wyverian some more.
>Write in.

>>4116887
>Let's go look over the quest board again.
>Bloody Cooperation.
It's time.

>>4116897
This.

More work, you feel like putting in more work now. It's odd.

You stroll back over to the quest board and peruse once more until a special assignment strokes your fancy. "Bloody Cooperation".

You've not had a chance yet to actually go to the Research Base, nor meet any members of the Third Fleet besides some researchers. You heard a great deal of many things of the Third Fleet, how they used a massive airship as a mobile base, and how they helped discover the Rotten Vale.

You take the quest and decide you'll do this one. It appeared simple enough. Hmm... at this point, that saying was an adage, one that usually carried bad omens with it, but you'll still go by it regardless. Some part of you enjoyed the events that bad luck summoned.

Whistling quietly for a wingdrake, you mount up and fly off the way of the Research Base in the midst of the night....

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It didn't take long to reach the Research Base, but when you arrived, you were put under a different impression. This place didn't look in anyway like what you expected. Where you thought there would be a flying airship, completely intact and under the average standards of a laboratory, you instead found a floating wreckage lifted by balloons, with a messy and makeshift interior. Everything was jerry-rigged, the walkways and platforms...

Well, it's suited them for this long, so the maybe make the best of it, you couldn't fault them for that if they managed to do their job well with.... this.

You walked up on board and approached the top, stopping to see that old woman with the bushy hair from the post-siege celebration, and a Wyverian female sitting on a cushion with stacks of books and burning aromas all around. She looks up at you and lowers her glasses.

"Hello, I don't believe we've met before. You are...?"

"Vance, ma'am. I'm here for this special assignment you put out." You introduce yourself, holding out the paper for 'Bloody Cooperation'.

"I had expected the Star would show up for this quest, this isn't the first time something strange we couldn't explain all too well has happened. I don't even know why I chose that name, it just came to me." She says, leaning up to face you proper. "I appreciate your willingness to assist however, so I won't turn you away."

"Now that would be wise. Word is about this guy is that he's another of the Star's prodigies." The Older Human lady there says, standing to offer a handshake. "I don't believe we've met either. I'm the Tracker, been out here a looong time. Didn't get a chance to say it yet, but you did a good job taking that Yama down."

"Thank you, ma'am." You say, shaking her hand.

"Hm hm, how very formal. Well, if you're around the Star often, then I can trust you'll be able to help with this task, please, come with me." The Third Fleet Master says as she gets up to walk down.

You follow her into the lower bowels of the airship and can't help but think on the way... 'Damn, hundred years old Wyverian girls look like that?!' Oh man, you could see why Humans and Wyverians got along so wel- HNGH!

As if being hit by some invisible force, your head bumped into the wood of the platform hard and the Third Fleet Master looks at you with perplexity.

"Hmm? Are you okay?"

"Y-Yes, just.. almost lost my footing there." You say.

"Ah."

You continue following her down to the bottom platform.

...

ᴰᵒn'ᵗ ʸᵒᵘ ᵈᵃʳᵉ.

...Huh?

...What the frack was that...?

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At the bottom of the airship's lower platforms, you come upon the hangar for the Tailrider Safari. There was numerous Felynes there all trained as Palicos, but they did not accompany their Hunters when they gathered here, they conducted business in the field all by themselves as part of the safaris. You didn't really think that sounded the safest, but their Hunters trusted them enough to lend them to the safari for the time being, so they must have a nonexistent mortality rate.

The Third Fleet Master stops in front of a desk which another older, more wizened Wyverian lady sat behind. She looks up and smiles before sliding a box forward on the desk. The Third Fleet Master uses a tiny key no bigger than her pinky to unlock the box and reveal it's contents. A bell wreathed in some apparitional glow.

Oh boy, it was one of those kinds of occurrences.

"A Tailrider found it in the field. They said they rang it and ended up somewhere... else, but they came back after some time.... somehow. That Tailrider described seeing 'horrible things' in this other place. I think it may share some connection with the last strange event we were witness to, the time a figure calling himself the 'Witcher' showed up here."

"I see." You say, reaching forward to grab the bell. The Third Fleet Master halts you with her own hand then suddenly.

"Wait."

You listened out to the bell and heard a faint ringing from it. The piece inside this small ghostly bell was moving on it's own, trying to chime against the inside.

"Only ring this if you're absolutely sure about it... whatever happens, I want you to try and get to the bottom of it. A simple Palico can shy away from the smallest of Monsters, but you're a Hunter. I know you won't be so easily dissuaded."

"Are you sure you want to ring it just yet?"

>"This isn't even the strangest thing I've ever seen, I'm ready for whatever happens. Let's find out."
>"You're right, perhaps I should wait a little longer and get myself better prepared first before I try anything."

>>4117201
>"This isn't even the strangest thing I've ever seen, I'm ready for whatever happens. Let's find out."
We've survived Rajang Oro, we can make it through this.

>>4117201
"This isn't even the strangest thing I've ever seen, I'm ready for whatever happens. Let's find out."

Tonight, Vance joins the hunt

>>4117201
>"This isn't even the strangest thing I've ever seen, I'm ready for whatever happens. Let's find out."
This will be good.

>>4117201
>"This isn't even the strangest thing I've ever seen, I'm ready for whatever happens. Let's find out."
This is fucking awesome. BLOOD BLOOD BLOOD!

>>4117173
>ᴰᵒn'ᵗ ʸᵒᵘ ᵈᵃʳᵉ.
Death to those who defy the primordial human's ships

>>4117347
I like what Zuhramon offers but he should have fucked off there. So what if we want to eye up our future Wyverian slave ahead of time after we help him restore ancient humanity?

>>4117362
>trusting somebody, who would genetically modify you to reject something as previously natural as colonizing an inferior species, to lead an HFY movement

He lost my vote, personally.

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"I've witnessed stranger things in my life. Whatever awaits me, I'm not worried."

You pick up the Small Resonating Bell. The Third Fleet Master steps back and nods understandingly.

"Let's find out what's on the other side." You say as you hold it up.

"Be careful, it could be very dangerous...." She says with a tense glint in her eyes.

"Hunters live for danger. Let's find out where this takes me."

You ring the Small Resonating Bell back in response to the sound of the other faint ringing....