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The Plague

It's a multiple stage disease where a patient can relapse and progress to the next stage even if he was treated. There is an appropriate level of treatment for each stage and different type of contamination that you learned.

Stage One
>High fever, runny nose, sore throat, muscle and joint pain, headache, coughing, and feeling tired.
You contracted it as well as several people of your community. Symptoms get worse each passing day unless you have a proper meal with meat and enough vitamins then get to rest in a warm place. Infected can relapse. In that case, they will progress to the next stage. Still unsure about the mod of contamination, you speculated that it was airborne and like many people try to use a cloth around your mouth.

Stage Two
>Abdominal pain, diarrhea, vomiting, with bleeding.
Hugo, a child from your community, contracted it. He was bedridden the whole time and you couldn't approach him. His sister, someone with unusual knowledge on the disease, took care of him without getting contaminated. She, however, contracted Stage One. You were explained that coming into contact with body fluids is the requirement to contract Stage Two.

Stage Three
>Necrosis. DEATH.
Only those two words were written on the newspaper, leaving no room for imagination. You encountered people with black spots on their body, they were instantly killed by the Militia. A lot of bodies in the Dead Zone presumably died of Stage Three and turned into ashes. Rodents can be found dead everywhere in the canals but somehow they move in deadly swarm inside the Dead Zone.

Alfonso's community

Mario (Stg I, treated): gunsmith of the SSN Polaris, an old friend with alcohol problems and anger issues about 'knife-ears'
Luigi: the reasonable carpenter of the SSN Polaris, he just wants to make it through with his pregnant wife
Valentina: Luigi's wife in pregnancy, not so fond of her husband's friends but has her pride as a housewife
Amicia (Stg I, treated): daughter of the murdered director of the Academy, deeply thankful to you for saving her little brother
Hugo (Stg II, treated): Amicia's brother and musician prodigy, too famous to get outside

The City

Every place you discovered should be here, it's mainly to keep tract of your secondary objectives and opportunities as well as obstacles and danger areas. For example, you encountered a maniac vegetarian Elf captain in the Elven Commandos who banned the consumption of meat as well as guns on 'his' territory. You don't want to get caught with our meat ration or your flintlock pistol.

Previous thread: >>4136452

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The night is still young and you have plenty time to fit in. At least, as much as someone wearing a pig's mask can fit in an assembly of other people dressed like animals. You still can't believe your eyes. The Western part of the City is in chaos, overcrowded hospitals, guerilla fights in the slums, meaningless caused by stampedes, screams and dead rats part of the scenery... and here in the Noble District people are partying. They even have a buffet of fresh shrimps and sliced oranges while you have to rely on your ration of industrially processed whale meat.

"Is that mayonaise?" salivates Raphaella "I haven't seen any farm product since the beginning of the quarantine."

The racoon girl has absolutely no manner, you wonder what would have happened if you brought Valentina or Amicia, but right now you can only see the buffer.You are still recovering from Stage One after all

"N-No, this is bad..." the Demihuman slaps her cheeks "I came here to save Bernardo."

You did not come here to eat, you are looking for help to free Bernardo Pastori, the racoon girl's lover and also a savant working on a cure. You first believed you had found people sympathetic to Demihumans but their progressive ideas seem to be only a facade. On the front lane, some groups are gathering around certain people like that beautiful redhead, some men are leading conversation groups, probably rich industrials, bankers or influential people. Among them the unmistakable fat figure of the businessman you tried to help. Clenching hard on the piece of wood serving as your clutch you dream of bashing his skull in, maybe you can get some sort of retribution.

"Wow, that redhead really stands out." you can help but comment

She really gets your attention, as if there was some sort of magical charm around her. But the sight of her two Fishmen bodyguards was enough to make you want to look elsewhere.

"Those are definitely real Fishmen." you remember "Who would want to disguise as something as disgusting?"

What's next for Alfonso Barbatti?
>fill your dish at the buffet
>discussion group around some influential man leading the conversation
>wow, that redhead is really beautiful, maybe you can just see why people are gathering
>vendetta against the businessman, it's time to duel as according to the etiquette
>go inside

coof

>>4168750
>fill your dish at the buffet

This shouldn't take more than 2 minutes, right? It's important to stay well fed right now.

>discussion group around some influential man leading the conversation

Best chance for helping Bernando, instead of chasing grudges.

>>4168750
>>wow, that redhead is really beautiful, maybe you can just see why people are gathering

>>4168750
>wow, that redhead is really beautiful, maybe you can just see why people are gathering
COF COF COF

>>4168787
Seconding

>>4168787
Supporting this. Shouldn't take long to grab some food, and we need the food variety. Business man was a jackass, but I believe it was mentioned last thread, that bringing him his belongings actually helped our reputation. Best not to fuck it up here now. Also, we're on a healing leg. We have no gun or ammunition for a ranged duel, and a melee duel would be at a negative dice modifier.

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>>4168780
>>4168787
>>4168789
>>4168793
>>4168801
>>4168904
You fill a plate with some shrimps, a spoon of mayonnaise and some fresh fruits that should not grow in winter. People are gossiping behind your back, how rude to get straight on the food without talking to anyone. After getting your share, you head with Raphaella to the nearest group of persons.

"I can guarantee you" boasts a short man wrapped in wool to mimic a sheep "my tonic can cure almost anything."
"Yes, yes of course." a woman sighs near him "Each time we discover a plant in the New World you make a remedy and try to sell it."
"I will have you know most of my remedies are on the list of the navy's pharmacopoeia."
"Oh please tell us again how your great-great grand father introduced lemon juice to cure scurvy." ironically teases the woman
"Don't say it like that! Without the Goodhealth family contribution we would have never expanded into a Thalassocracy."
"And many powerful wizard from my family helped to fight back Fishmen to take this land. This so-called science is a joke for people with no talents for magic or alchemy."

"You, young man." he addresses you "I see you have an injured leg. My remedy can cure anything, I assure you even better than a healing potion. Don't you trust science? Would you like to try?"

This trustworthy merchant is right, you think. After all, you were a sailor and you recognize that bottle and brand. There must have been some Goodhealth remedies in the ship's surgeon cabin. Amused, the people all around you are judging your reaction.

>"Yes, I trust modern medicine over magic." try the remedy, support the merchant
>"I could use a healing potion." refuse the remedy, support the wizard
>it's hard to remember, but you have seen that exact same bottle and brand somewhere (Mental)*
>"we need both, magic and medicine" (Social)*
*+xx bonus depending on your write-ins

Inventory
-Pig's mask
-1 cleaver (hidden)
-costume
-wool tunic
(-Raphaella's dress and mask)

Physical 65
Mental 50
Social 35

-10 in stress situation in a crowd
+10 accuracy
-25 to some action due to broken leg
+10 social thanks to fancy costume
-5 social on some topics because branded as a furry
-5 social on some topics because seen as freeloader

>>4168992

>it's hard to remember, but you have seen that exact same bottle and brand somewhere (Mental)*

If we can't remember we prefer the potion. Magic is tried and true.

>>4168992
Is this world similar to Arcanum? Does technology and science get fucked up by nearby magical energies? I assume not, right? We have that artifact thing that provides an accuracy bonus with firearms. If it is like Arcanum, then I'd rather support >>4169018 over a write-in that doesn't make sense in setting.
>"we need both, magic and medicine" (Social)*
"Signore e Signori! Listen here, and listen close! Where would we be, as a society without one or the other? Science and the Arcane should go hand in hand!" Then draw out the accuracy artifact, to use as a demonstration. "Gaze upon this! A magical artifact, that causes the wielder to become more accurate whilst using a firearm! Both parties compliment one another while used together, and each has their own merits. We, as a society need both, together."
Hopefully this social roll isn't fucked into the dirt by all of those negative dice modifiers we have here. Assuming it even gathers support, or the tiebreaker roll is a two.

>>4169084
Hm. My post appears less sick looking. I wonder if they change in appearance based on how much you shitpost, or the post's relative "toxicity". Sort of like trying out a flagging system under the guise of the April Fools event, for use behind the scenes assuming this event has been successful.

make him cooooof

>>4169018
>>4169084
ok, roll 2d100
first for trying to remember which can grants you a bonus for the second roll, must be under 50
second for conciliation, must be under 50 (35+10 with the costume -5 because freeloader showing his loot +10 for write-in)

Rolled 60, 16 = 76 (2d100)

>>4170330

Rolled 11, 34 = 45 (2d100)

>>4169104

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>>4170338
>>4170378
>rolled 11 and 16
success

How cold you forget! Of course, it's Mister Goodhealth famous elixirs, every sailor has at least taken one of his remedy as a substitute to an expansive alchemy potion. Easier to mass produce they were the perfect match for a rapidly growing navy. He even mentioned being a supplier for the navy. You even took one elixir made from a plant of the New World to fight malaria induced fever.

However, you doubt that a non-magical elixir can do anything but ease the pain of an injury. And that's exactly what you needed to make your point about conciliation.

"Signore e Signori! Listen here, and listen close! Where would we be, as a society without one or the other? Science and Magic should go hand in hand!"

The sceptical lady with crow feathers decorating her dress as well as the shot enthusiast merchant wrapped in wool are listening carefully. You have their attention as all eyes are on you. Drawing out the accuracy artefact you have two solid example to expose.

"Gaze upon this! A magical artefact, that causes the wielder to become more accurate whilst using a firearm! Both parties compliment one another while used together, and each has their own merits. We, as a society need both, together."
"Are you saying that I can't cure your leg?" react the merchant "I cured the arthritis of the famous painter Leonardo. What's a little feet injury to my elixir? Coca is gift from Sol itself, a miracle plant."
"Miracles belongs to the Church of Sol and trained scholars like me." the lady continues
"You are both right." you conclude "I had once contracted malaria in a trip to the New World in my youth. And as much as I had like to give all the credits for mister Goodhealth remedy for treating the fever, I didn't make a full recovery. I felt weak and diminished for a while after. I could have use a healing potion to make treat my liver."

>>4170737
Masked guests are nodding as if knowing exactly what you were talking about. Most of them never contracted an exotic disease such as malaria, at best tuberculosis which was eradicated a few years ago by a Dwarven doctor.

The lady dressed in black feathers hide a smirk behind her fan and mister Goodhealth is rubbing his hands, it seems they both find you interesting in their own way. Raphaella pokes you with her elbow in your flank.

"Hey, we are not here to have fun." she whispers "How are they going to get Bernardo out of jail?"

Mister Goodhealth should have some contact in the Arsenal or perhaps the Militia, now that the navy has been temporary disbanded. Also, the mysterious lady who pretend to be a wizard from one of the founding families should have some connexions too.

"This artefact and you getting an exotic disease..." the lady ponders while checking you from head to toes "are you perhaps an adventurer?"
"Of course not." the merchant answers for you "He is a businessman travelling the world to make profit. The age of adventurers and mages is over."

Merging-in is quite stressful, you are, after all, just a commoner
>why, yes how could you tell, I'm an adventurer
>I'm running a small business indeed
>maybe it's time to come out as a strong advocate for Demihuman Rights and good friend of Bernardo Pastori (Social)
+xx bonus depending on your write-ins

>>4170738
currently reading last thread, looks like a promising quest! Will vote when I know what is going on

>>4170738

>maybe it's time to come out as a strong advocate for Demihuman Rights and good friend of Bernardo Pastori (Social)

>>4171543
>>4170738
Rewriting this, as I left a lot of half finished thoughts in the last post. Twisted amalgamation of thoughts that detract from the original idea.

>>tuberculosis which was eradicated a few years ago by a Dwarven doctor.
Don't think I'd miss this, OP. Glad to see a nod back to that.

Write-in.
>>"Prior to this epidemic, I was indeed running a small business. I opened it after some of my travels in my youth, hoping to settle down. However, I have been out and about as of late in the midst of this crisis, so I suppose the adventurous spirit has never really left me. Although, I still hope to return to running my business, after some good people manage to step up, and get the situation under control here. Speaking of which, I have been trying to establish contact with my good friend Dottore Bernardo Pastori who has been locked within The Citadel for his controversial views on Demihuman rights. If anyone knows how to find a remedy to this foul sickness, it would be him."
A bold claim. I am hoping to appeal to both of them once again. The previous write in seems to have got them onto some common ground, hoping to keep them both interested in what we have to say, rather than choosing one or the other, so as to not get on either of their bad sides, or get them arguing again. Keep it stable. Don't lose either of them as assets. Both could be essential. The write-in seems fine to me, besides the mention of Pastori and his ability to likely find a cure potentially upsetting Mister Goodhealth, as it would imply that he has been unable to. Feel free to add anything. Assuming this gets traction. Or even taken by OP, as I essentially combined every option for this write-in.

>>4171203
>>4171483
>>4171593
roll a 1d100,must be under 50 (35+10 thanks to costume -5 because seen as furry +10 because nof write-in)

Rolled 23 (1d100)

>>4172134

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>>4172137
>rolled 23
success

"Prior to this epidemic, I was indeed running a small business." you start thinking about your butcher's shop

This is not lying but you do not play in the same ground as a noble annuitant and a rich businessman. However, you were clearly an adventurer. Not one of the legend who fought against monsters for rewards or explored ruins for powerful artefact, but a modern adventurer.

"I opened it after some of my travels in my youth, hoping to settle down. However, I have been out and about as of late in the midst of this crisis, so I suppose the adventurous spirit has never really left me."

The businessman clearly understand that you are leaning on the lady's side, frowning his brows and crossing his arms to make them disappear in the massive wool costume. Thankfully, he does not seem more upset than that as business and adventurous spirit are not necessarily antonymous.

"Although, I still hope to return to running my business, after some good people manage to step up, and get the situation under control here. Speaking of which, I have been trying to establish contact with my good friend Dottore Bernardo Pastori who has been locked within The Citadel for his controversial views on Demihuman rights. If anyone knows how to find a remedy to this foul sickness, it would be him."

There it is, you dropped the bomb. People start chatting in your back using the word 'furry' and pointing out the strangely realistic tail and ears of your companion. Some left and others, like the noble lady and the rich merchant stay.

"While it's true the quarantine is bad for imports" shrugs the merchant "There still are some juicy opportunities. But if you happen to know when it will be lifted or can 'precipitate' the end of the quarantine, come to find me at the Pearl of the Ocean, a fine establishment in the Relight District."

Without any more details, the merchant leave you with the noble lady and is heading to the redhead surrounded by Fishmen. Wow, she really is standing out, you never saw someone so beauti-

"Don't look." interrupts the lady while you receive a discrete elbow strike from Raphaella "You may be an adventurer but you never saw a mermaid before. If you fall in love, your heart will explode."
"I'm already married to the sea, like every sailor."
"Oh?" the lady pauses, intrigued by your personality "I thought sailor were married to their ship. Isn't it why they call their embarcation a 'she' ?"
"Only knife-ears do that. It's degenerate."
"I see... Would you like to accompany me inside. Maybe I could present you some people you could find... interesting for your adventurous enterprise."

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>>4172209
Leaving the front lane, you pass under the porch of Don Giovanni mansion, giving your empty plate to a servant. Raphaella has to hold back a squeal as you both get under a massive Mystical Stone chandelier. Droplets falling in the stones to make them shine. There is even a circle of heated metal under to make them levitate, using the two properties of Mystical Stones. That must consume them in no time. To use such precious material so casually, this Giovanni must be richer than the Doge.

"Tchh... The Giovannis..." the lady comments "This new nobles have no taste, almost as worst as businessmen."
"That looks very expansive. I bet they didn't even search for artefact inside the Mystical Stones before putting them here."
"I see adventurers have their priorities set straight. I like that. Let's get upstairs."

You climb one floor higher to get a little but under the chandelier in a place bathed in dim light, the perfect place for discrete conversations. There are even couches to have a rest from standing during all the party. Someone with a lion pelt welcoming guest and presenting himself as Don Giovanni is still downstairs.

"We are not talking to him?" asks Raphaella "
"There is still time" you answer "plus it would be impolite to leave her like that"

One of the guest is that businessman you tried to help and who robbed you when you were sick. Seeing him makes your blood boil, how could you let him go like that. Are you not and adventurer if not a hero?

"So, back to our topic of discussion." the lady gets your attention "I happen to know some people who are quite pissed-off by the situation."
>I really need that cure, some people I know have been infected and could relapse
>who isn't, I can't just stand by idly, I'm an adventurer as I said, I solve problems
>'pissed-off' is that how people react when there are so many deads in the street?

>>4172210
>>who isn't, I can't just stand by idly, I'm an adventurer as I said, I solve problems
>"Some of those "problems" being sick in my midst, they've recovered now, but could relapse if the situation deteriorates further."

>>4172237
support
Man. That is some luck succeeding those social rolls

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>>4172237
>>4172265
"Who isn't, I can't just stand by idly, I'm an adventurer as I said, I solve problems. And some of those "problems" being sick in my midst, they've recovered now, but could relapse if the situation deteriorates further."
"I like selfish people." she smiles, forgetting to cover her mouth with the fan

Downstairs, the Elven ambassador just arrived making all conversations stop as the mermaid from before just approached him and slapped him in the face. There is something really serious going on down there.

"Oh this is actually perfect." the lady claps her hands enthusiastically "I needed that diversion so badly."
"A diversion?"
"Well, let me demonstrate you how my skills and my friends can help you. Can you see that man near the punch fountain?"
"Ah... yes... I see HIM."

She pointed the business man who beaten you with his can while you were feverish and weak. Is the related to him? You hope not because there is nothing more you had like to see him dead.

"I want him dead." she claims almost reading in your mind
"Huh, pardon me?"
"Well it's more a client who wants him dead. That's what my friends and I do. We are experts in this field, you might have heard of us."

She reveals the back of her fan where a gondolier in a black cloak is drawn. You recognize of course Charon, the god of Death but can't really understand what it implies. Then she turns in back and makes appear a small out of nowhere. A knitted doll of an uncanny resemblance with the businessman.

"Let me make you a demonstration." she continues "This man over there is a slave trader. He was supposed to only spend a night in the City but got trapped here because of the quarantine."
"Yeah... I've heard about it."
"Oh, really?... Well, my client heard about that and filled a contract, but do not worry. The days when we jumped off from the roof to plunge a dagger in our target are long gone. We developed more refined techniques."
"And you will use them on him?"
"Right but before that, I would like you to bring me something that once belonged to him, it can be anything he touched but the more personal the better."
"And what if I do?"
"Then, we will both have some fun from this great loge and I will present you to my friends."

You have a new opportunity and can go downstairs to complete that small harmless request or talk to other guests. But maybe you will not be able to do something more after dealing with the businessman.
>get something from that businessman and go back to the lady
>screw magic, you are going to duel according to the etiquette with him, maybe she will like that
>you should go talk to Don Giovanni
>maybe try to see what is going on between the mermaid and the Elven ambassador
>now that you are inside, why not try to sneak in some room
>write-in (write-in are always available but I may or may not choose them)

>get something from that businessman and go back to the lady

>>4172375
>>screw magic, you are going to duel according to the etiquette with him, maybe she will like that
She DID mention liked selfish people. He's slighted us. He beat us to death's door beforehand. This is our fight. He may not even be a slave trader, she could've just strung us a line of bullshit, bringing him up in some eerie coincidence. If he's not even involved in slave trade, then a duel would end with us restoring our honor, still result in his death, and not kill a potential innocent (albeit an asshole) who actually isn't involved in any shady shit at all. Then again, this is a really risky option due to the negative dice modifier due to the fucked leg, so we'll be at a huge disadvantage unless we can borrow dueling pistols from somebody. But for that, we'll look like even more of a freeloader, as we do not have our own. The lady may even get upset if we kill her target for her, we don't know the etiquette of her organization. Plus, if we botch the roll and fuck it up, we'll look like a jackass for failing. Risky option. Up to the rest of the voters to decide if they want to support it.

>>4172375

>maybe try to see what is going on between the mermaid and the Elven ambassador

Wasn't interested until elves got involved

>>4172634
>>4172641
>>4172675
If in 1h there is no tie breaker, I will make you approach the businessman and we will see what is the best option.

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>>4172634
>>4172641
>>4172675
The mermaid didn't really have your attention at first, but now that the Elven ambassador is involved it's something else. By Sol, everyone who slaps a knife-ear deserve your interest. However, you are more certain that you should take care of the businessman before anything else.

Unsure about how to approach him, you consider what a direct confrontation would imply. First, the lady didn't specifically mention that she wanted to kill him herself but that she wanted him dead. Then, there's your honor at stake.

"Ahah, and then I beat the crap out of that filthy commoner before he even asked for a reward." the fat businessman laughed

He was detailing his encounter with you, embellishing his treason into a confrontation with a robber. Can you really call yourself a hero, let alone an adventurer if you let him talk like that? You let a lot of people roll over your these past days, both figuratively and literally. The stampede, the Elven Commando, the clothes merchant... Swallowing your pride, you realize how far you have come, maybe it's time to drop this delusion of yours and accept your place as just a nobody who tries to survive by lying and using coward schemes.

"I don't really get it but..." starts Raphaella watching your internal struggle anxiously "you just need something from that man? I think I can help with that."

Too bad you didn't keep that bullet you on you, it belonged to him. So now you will have to try getting something he touched during the party or steal something on him. Now, should you choose to provoke a duel, you would not be able to move freely in the party after as all eyes would be on you, if you succeed, that is.

How do you confront him?
>provoke a duel (Mental)
>steal something on him (Physical)
>try to look for something he touched (Mental)
>write-in (write-in are always available but I may or may not choose them)

If you choose to bring one of his belonging to the lady, do you use Raphaella as a distraction?
>yes
>no

>>4172946
>provoke a duel (Mental)

Should be easy if he's bragging to others, he won't want to back down in front of them.

>>4172946
I should have said (Social) for "provoking duel" but it's too late now

>>4172962
This. All in.

>>4172962
>>4172986
ok,so it should have been the Social attribute, but I said Mental and I won't back down on that but I will let you use the Social bonuses

roll 1d100, must be under 45 (50 -10 for stress situation in a crowd +10 thanks to fancy costume -5 because seen as a freeloader)

Rolled 92 (1d100)

>>4173010

Rolled 76 (1d100)

>>4173012

>>4173012
watch me roll even higher

Hammer is coming down. Or maybe this guy's cane. Again. We're fucked. Pray for another anon to come in and roll.

>>4173012
>>4173021
>rolled 76
total failure

Pushing aside Raphaella you fill your lung with overconfidence and make your way in the heavy packed crowd around him with your clutch. One step after the other the oppressive environment remind you of the terrible stampede on the bridge and you feel all that confidence flushed out of your body.

"R-Re-Remember me?" you stutter "How does it feel to beat up defenseless people?"
"Who the hell are you?" he points his cane at you
"You will get what you deserve.Get outside and fight me."
"Who let that punk come to the party? Get lost poor man. Oh wait, you are that fellow who went straight to the buffet, here take this." he throw at you a small bag "Sugar from my plantation in the New World. It's just a sample thouhgh."

Everybody laughs at you for acting with no class atll, leaving you a limited amount of option if you really want to deal with him yourself.

>attack him (Physical)
>remove your mask, revealing your true identity
>insult him like the thug you are
>tell another version of his story and lie about him acting like a coward
>fall back to plan B and try to find something he toucher/steal something from him

Rolled 20 (1d100)

>>4173010

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>>4173082
>>4173083
>10 second difference

>>4173082
Fuck it. On this ride until the end.
>>remove your mask, revealing your true identity
>>tell another version of his story, the true version
>"I am Alfonso Barbati, of the SSN Polaris. I found this wretch blathering on outside of the hospital, begging to be admitted and given a bed, while there was clearly others about who needed it much more than he did. I stepped up to him, and offered my help in returning his belongings to him from his office within the Dead Zone. After a perilous journey in which I broke my leg, I returned to him with his possessions, battered and bloody, yet triumphant in bringing this man's property back to him. He then proceeded to beat me to death's door with his cane like a stray dog. This man has insulted my honor, and I formally challenge him to a duel. Man to man"
This should work. Hopefully. Subtle insults, along with some slander. Doubt he'll back down. Hopefully he doesn't end up having someone else fight for him and his honor, rather than facing us himself.

>>4173082
Backing >>4173123

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>>4173123
>>4173223
Raphaella painfully watches as you get ridiculized, you completly busted your chance to provoke a fair duel between two stranger. So now, you will have to give up on something for this party, being your anonymity by removing your mask or your reputation by insulting him.

You decide to abandon both and reveal who you are.
"I am Alfonso Barbati, of the SSN Polaris." you dramatically unveil

Thema had their effect. This is a mondane party between educated people, everybody goe to the theatre, everybody know the SSN Polaris and everybody has its own personnal opinion on the Doge and your captain who tried to murder him.

"I found this wretch blathering on outside of the hospital, begging to be admitted and given a bed, while there was clearly others about who needed it much more than he did. I stepped up to him, and offered my help in returning his belongings to him from his office within the Dead Zone."

And you also clearly identified yourself as the 'robber' from his story. However, trying to clean your honour by revealing the truth or to dirty someone reputation by telling lies, because in the end it's a matter of whose version you thrust, you appear as the worst kind of person for these people.

"After a perilous journey in which I broke my leg, I returned to him with his possessions, battered and bloody, yet triumphant in bringing this man's property back to him. He then proceeded to beat me to death's door with his cane like a stray dog. This man has insulted my honour, and I formally challenge him to a duel. Man to man"
"Ah ah, look at that, a traitor of the Polaris is again trying to murder a noble." he claims
"What is going on here?" Don Giovanni calmy interrupt

The man with his lion pelt causes all chatters to go silent and make place for him, as if embodying the animal he was dressing as.

"This is a pretty serious accusation siniore Barbatti." he starts
"Don Giovanni, you are not going to trust a... a... a commoner!" the merchant asks shocked
"Silence Piccoli. I don't remember inviting yo-" Giovanni stops after seeing you with Raphaella "hmm... I see... Signore e Signori! There is nothing worse for us to have our reputation dirtied like that. I suppose neither Piccoli or Barbatti could go such an affront unanswered."
"Don Giovanni, you are not..."
"This is why I intend to entertain you with a duel. Gentlemen, if you please."
"B-But no... you can't possibly belie-"
"It's useless, signiore Piccoli. Useless." he snaps as a servant approaches him with a wooden box

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hV6-ZoB3Hag

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>>4173604
Then it's on. The businessman, a certain Piccoli apparently, takes one pistol from the box and goes wait outside. The crowd seems interested and press themselves around you in the front lane. You can hear the protestation of Raphaella tryting to find a better place.

"Y-You are not seriously going to challenge someone?" she insists "Not with a broken leg."
"It's not a street fight. I don't really need my let."
"Why... I just don't understand you... You told the merchant you were siding with the Elves, swallowing your pride and now you have to duel someone for honour?"

Your inconsistency is hard to follow but you came to terms with yourself. Piccoli is placed back to back with you and Don Giovanni himself is counting to ten. Whatever happens, you will not be allowed to roam freely in the mansion after or go by unoticed as you approach the embassador or anyone elese. It's fair to say that the party has come to and end for you even before the result of the duel. Yet, you cant feel but intrigued at the reaction of Don Giovanni when he seemed to recognize Raphaella. He, after all, invited Bernardo Pastori, her lover. Finally, thelady dressed as a crow is nowhere to be seen. Let's hope she will recontact you if you are successful.

>fair fight (Mental)
>dodge and shoot (Physical)
>turn back before the end and shoot

>>4173605
>>fair fight (Mental)
Clearly the best option. Should have the highest dice threshold, unless I am mistaken. We'll clearly piss off most people here if we take the option to just murder him, breaking dueling etiquette. Let's roll the dice.

>>4173628
roll a 1d100, must be under 50 (50+10 for accuracy artefact -10 because of crowd)
first blood rule here, decide if you should shoot to kill or to just wound him

Rolled 67 (1d100)

>>4173688
Kill. It's what the mysterious woman asked us to do in the first place. Less honorable, but we agreed. Suppose we could get something that belongs to him after we wound him, but she's seemingly gone now. We'll see her again if we succeed either way, but I don't know about showing up with a job half finished. Anyways. Nat 1 incoming.

>>4173707
Fuck. Always with the shit rolls involving this guy.
Hope somebody else can come in and save this.

>>4173605
>fair fight (Mental)

Swallowed our pride to side with Elves? There is no shame in recognizing that Elves are the master race.

Rolled 1 (1d100)

>>4173688
Kill, woman wants him dead and he's a dbag who will probably try to kill us later if we don't settle things now

>>4173810
>Rolled 1 (1d100)
The wine and the laughter flows.
Called it.
Nice fucking roll, anon. I don't recall any successful rolls involving Piccoli.

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>>4173810
>>4173831
>>4173810
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EujDcc2xEUI
"10"

The waves gently washes over the shores not so far from Giovanni's mansion, making gondola creaks in the canals. You take a deep breath as he starts counting.

"9... 8... 7..."

Every steps clear the atmosphere of any unnecessary noise, the voices go silent and only the cold wind of winter can be heard whistling in the Noble District. The clouds slowly drift away to reveal a full moon lighting up the scene.

"6... 5... 4..."

At first comical, your steps using the clutch make the scene even more theatrical, women start to pray for you, calling unto Sol for this poor injured man to not die. You hold your pistol high to not let the bullet or gunpowder fall off.

"3... 2... 1..."

You turn, facing the pretentious fat liar, his face distorted by anger, foam on his lips. He throws his cane at your feet in a desperate moment of rage seeing how cool you are taking this. But you already adjusted your weight, aiming just above his head and relieving your breath. This shift the pistol just a few inches lower, a trick learned by every soldier and sailor.

*BAM*... *BAM*

"And the winner of this duel who was willing to put his life at risk to clean his honour shall receive our trust.é Don Giovanni says "He survived the harsh winter of the North Pole and battled bear bare handed, he survived the Dead Zone and its swarm of rats. Twice denied the fame he deserved, but no more."

The crowd cheers and chant your name "Alfonso! Alfonso! Alfonso!" This will probably a topic of discussion for everyone in the Noble District, expect it to have repercussion. "HAAAAAAA he's dead" someone screams.

Hero status restored for you and for others
Physical 70 (+5)
Mental 50
Social 40 (+5)

"He knew the risks." claims Don Giovanni "But let's not this small incident waste our party. Piccoli was a despicable man and we all knew it... Let's all go inside while my servants watch over his body."

>>4173942
You receive many pats on the back from wealthy men and women all wanted to shake your hand, even that mermaid smiled at you which made your heart skip a beat. The Elven ambassador looked at you with utter disgust while talking with a Dwarf in uniform who just arrived.

"Hey siniore, I see you are an expert with firearms." a rich entrepreneurs says
"I know my way around."
"I have a workshop in the Craftsmen District. I would really like you to come pay a visit. We work on some fine state-of-the-art pistol. Not two, not three, not four, but six-shots! Can you believe it?"
"Impressive but, isn't it a bit heavy to have six barrels and six triggers?"
"Ha ha ha, precisely, we developed a mechanism to have only one barrel while having 6 bullets. Here take my cart."

Don Giovanni who bid farewell to some guest a little to emotive about seeing a dead came back inside. You handed him the pistol but he refused to take it back.

"Please, Alfonso. It's bad luck to keep pistol which killed someone in a duel."
"So...?"
"You can have it, you earned that."

+1 flintlock pistol
+1 bag of sugar

The conversations continue but mainly focus on you, then on duels in general, then firearms, Demihuman slavery and regress in trivial opinions. It's as if you were forgotten.

"That was insane!" angrily reproach Raphaella who waited for everyone to leave you alone "You killed a man..."
"He deserved it."
"Yeah... I heard he was a Demihuman slaver" she calmly continues with teary eyes "he must have sent them in his New World plantation"
"Is that the kind of smuggler you were supposed to meet here with Bernardo?"
"Bernardo?" her face shines hearing his name "No... I don't know, he was the only one to know."

Right, this party is supposed to be mainly for people sympathetic to Demihumans and important people on the political game. What is this really about, maybe you can ask Don Giovanni and advance the party to its next stage. However, the noble lady who sent you to kill or get an item from the businessman is silently clapping on the top of the upper floor watching down on you in the shadows.

>ask Don Giovanni
>get back to the lady
>the discussion between the Elven ambassador and the Dwarf
>wow, that mermaid is really beautiful, maybe she likes you

>>4173951

>get back to the lady

Wrapped that up neatly for her. Maybe she'll give us a bonus?

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>>4173983
You climb the stairs, leaving the bright and noisy reception room to sit back on the comfy couch. The woman who sent you to retrieve an object from Piccoli doesnot hide her smile behind the fan any more.

"Initially, I thought you were going to use that cleaver of yours and butcher him like the bear in that play."
"Are you disappointed?"
"Not really. I had fun tonight, but you didn't get to see my talents and this is really frustrating."

She puts the knitted doll on the table and hit it with her closed fan. Just as if a wizard used a magic wand, the doll stood straight animated by its own will. At first confused about its existence, it assessed its surrounding and got scared after seeing your face. But you didn't put your mask back, there's no reason to...

"What have you done?" you ask
"Fear not, this is only a fraction of Piccoli spirit. I'm not so careless that I would try a full possession spell without at least a ritual."
"How cute." exclaims Raphaella seizing the doll "Look how it's fighting back."
"My, my, aren't you the cruel one, little racoon girl." laughs the lady "Isn't it ironic that a slave trader is now the possession of a Demihuman?"

This woman showed you the sign of Charon, god of Death, the one who help souls to go into the afterlife or allow them to get out. She referred to this as a contract and said her friends used to commit murder in plain sight. You are starting to have the gist of it. But why are they 'pissed off' by the situation?

>so you are a Death Cult, that makes you enemy of the Church
>is the plague bad for the assassins business?
>I thought you were part of the founding families
>I deserve a reward, don't I?
>write-in (write-in are always available but I may or may not choose them)

>>4174022
>>is the plague bad for the assassins business?
Lets not piss her off by mentioning the "enemy of the church" thing. Though, I assume she would just find it amusing. She seems the type. Just some small talk, no need to demand a reward. That roll and the stats going back to normal is reward enough. Never have I had such a great rush of euphoria while reading a quest. Great job writing that, OP. Great choice of music as well. I went off to get drunk, but I'm back now and will be for most of the night.

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>>4174130
"Is the plague bad for the assassins business?"
"What a straightforward approach" she bursts out laughing badly hiding her mouth "I really like you... Alfonso, is that right? I am Lady Cremosa, but you can call me Lisa."
"And this is Raphaella." you point the Demihuman playing with her new toy
"So, as you noticed with the quarantine, Elven trade has been cut off. Our dear Piccoli here is... was in the grain market speculation. He constantly lowered the price of sugar export by getting slaves in his plantations."
"Oh, I was started to doubt he was actually a slave trader, I went to his office after all."
"Are you working for the knife-ears?"
"Please, Alfonso. We have principles. Our client only wished to deter the use of Demihumans as cheap workforce. Sometimes that deterrent means supporting Demihuman Rights, sometimes it means supporting terrorists, sometimes it means hiring us."
"And I suppose as more people are jobless your 'client' want less Demihumans on the trade market."
"Yes, of course. So as you see we act as a regulation force in this situation."

Lady Cremosa shares a warm smile with Raphaella using her doll. She doesn't look like someone who will want all Demihumans dead, nor gone. But does it mean her client is part a guest? This is starting to make sense. Why Bernardo was invited as well as a slave trader, nobles pretending to defend Demihuman Rights while being repulsed by them... Is Don Giovanni a hypocrite or is he serious, or maybe something else...

"Let's talk about your friend Bernardo, since you said he was your friend earlier."
"Yes, I want him out of the Citadel to work on a cure."
"Fantastic, the sooner we cure that thing the sooner the Inquisition will leave."
"Can you help me with that... that magic?"
"Not only that but as I said my friends would help. Consider yourself lucky to have the favor of both Lady Cremosa and the Assassins guild."

She stands up, ready to end the conversation.

"We can be found in the cemetery in crypt of the Cremosa family. You can come every night even now if you like. We will discuss the details of your little operation there."
"Anything else I should know?"
"Hmmm... as long as that doll is intact, the soul of our poor Piccoli will be denied his reunion with Sol... So feel free to take care of it."

The wizard lady leaves the party in her private gondola, with an uncanny gondolier. She said that both her magic and assassins could be used to free Bernardo which overjoyed Raphaella despite the implications. Demihumans really have a different perception of life and death.

The party is about to end, there should be enough time for one more thing before the closing speech of Don Giovanni. The discussion between the Elven ambassador and the Dwarf in uniform has taken a more heated turn, the half-man is clearly angry, angry about Elves. Meanwhile, the mermaid is being courted by someone.
>Don Giovanni
>Mermaid
>Elf and Dwarf

>>4174203
>Lisa
OP, don't fucking ignore me, here. I've been getting LISA: The Painful vibes from this since last thread. Did that partially inspire this?

>>4174233
Not played, it looks like a nice game, though. A friend came up with her name.

Switching to slow mode now, expect 1 update every 1h-4h and back to 1 update every 20m-1h at 2PM EST

>>4174242
I'd give it a try if I were you, man. Really resonates well with your quest here. I love your stuff, man. I'll certainly keep my eyes open for future quests by you. Drunk. Got sidetracked, but I'll get to voting.
>>4174203
>>Don Giovanni
Best to see him. Seems alright. A 1 on 1 conversation would be cool.

>>4174203
>Don Giovanni

>>4174254
>>4174271
"About that pistol, Don Giovanni, I didn't thank you."
"Don't mention it, Alfonso. I see you came with Bernardo's companion."
"G-Good evening Don Giovanni." she stutters waging he tail and revealing her true nature
"Raphaella, right? Bernardo told me about you, a pleasure."

Completely aware of her being a Demihuman he hand-kisses Raphaella causing her to blush furiously. Maybe that clear him of being a hypocrite. And apparently it was him Bernardo should have contacted. That makes sense, Raphaella would totally go unnoticed in such party with everybody wearing masks and fake animal appendages.

"I understand you were the one to meet with Bernardo and Raphaella?"
"Correct Alfonso. My family had enough connection to help them leave the City and find a new home in the New World, however... the events we all know unfolded."

You have indeed a lot of questions that can only be answered in a one to one. But should you really question his motives or focus on what he can offer to help freed Bernardo? Guests are starting to leave the party, maybe you should hurry because of the curfew or if you want any leftovers from the buffet.

Pick as many as you like, but the clock is ticking
>So you are a smuggler, does that means 'family' as in mafia?
>What are your thoughts on Demihumans?
>Can you help get Bernardo out of jail?
>write-in (write-in are always available but I may or may not choose them)

>>4174292
>>What are your thoughts on Demihumans?
>>Can you help get Bernardo out of jail?
Too drunk to come up with a write in. Go with these for now. If anyone comes in with a good question and I'm not around to vote, then I'll support it.

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>>4174300
Not knowing where to put herself, Raphaella pulled back, eyes glued on the ground. That man for a 'Don', someone whose family has exerted power over the City in the past before the Doge and even before the College was established, he is very young. Probably even younger than you but the good health of noble usually make them appear younger. And yet, he already has so much influence and thus, probably, world view.

"What are your thoughts on Demihumans?" you ask clueless
"Me, Don Giovanni, I had a dream." he starts dramatically "One where the Beastskins we abducted from the East were not slave but free. I dream about the day they will not be forced to work for nothing in our dangerous factories. A dream where they had their own land far beyond the sea in the New World, far from the oppression of the East and us."
"Is that where Bernardo and me were supposed to go?" Raphaella enthusiastically asked "A country for Demihumans and Humans to live as equal?"
"Yes my dear Raphaella. I intended to lead you and our beloved to this country and maybe more would have followed."

You nod. Yeah, totally selfless. This a good politician, there are no politicians like him. He should totally replace the Doge. Wait, are you usually this easily convinced?

"This is wonderful." you conclude "But we need Bernardo to work on a cure, can you help him out of jail?"
"Hmm... I see. It would be much easier for you to leave if the quarantine is over."

How strange to be interested in the cure only for that. But surely he can't think anything bad, right? He gifted you with a pistol and is ready to help.

(Optionnal) Maybe he is hiding something
>Don Giovanni is so charismatic... must... resist (Mental) -20 because he is too fabulous

"I can have my... employees to help you get him out of jail. I can't do anything legally, you understand I'm sure."
"I have no plan right now, it would be a frontal assault. Plus I'm injured and not really prepared."
"Just come find me when you are ready, but I never saw anyone get out of the Citadel alive after more than 2 weeks of captivity."
"But it's been 7 days already!" notices Raphaella

It's time to go now, at least if you want to grab leftovers. All guests have left the reception room and are currently waiting for their private gondola on the front lane. Wait, you don't even know how you are going home with the curfew. There is no private gondola for you. But you don't to appear helpless in front of Don Giovanni, so are you going to ask for help for such a trivial matter?

>"Can we stay here for tonight? We don't have a way to go back." (will not bring leftovers to your community)
>"You are smugglers, right? Can you help us get back unnoticed by the Militia?" (will bring leftovers to your community)
>Try to find a group you can merge with, people really appreciated you (Social) (will bring leftovers to your community)

>>4174458
>>Don Giovanni is so charismatic... must... resist (Mental)
He's certainly hiding something. Those thoughts have me curious. We seem all to receptive to him. He seems good-natured, but if those thoughts are anything to go by, he seems to have some sort of enchantment or artifact enhancing him. I doubt we'll succeed here, so hopefully he won't mind much when we botch the roll. Someone like him certainly must be used to people trying to peer into him.
>>Try to find a group you can merge with, people really appreciated you (Social)
This should be fine. Probably. We did good tonight. Lets not fuck it up and appear incompetent in front of our new ally.
Good thing we brought Raphaella. Not quite as mannered as Amicia, but I'm sure Don Giovanni was more receptive to us due to recognizing her.

>>4174458
>Don Giovanni is so charismatic... must... resist (Mental)

Why would we not try this?

>Try to find a group you can merge with, people really appreciated you (Social) (will bring leftovers to your community)

We got cheered pretty hard after winning that duel, we can probably pull this off.

>>4174631
>>4174635
roll 2d100

first to try to unveil Don Giovanni real intentions, must be under 30 (50 -20 confronting your first boss)
second for finding a gondola, must be under 45 (40 +10 thanks to fancy costume -5 because seen as furry -5 seen as because freeloader -5 because actually a freeloader +10 for duel advantage)

Rolled 69, 69 = 138 (2d100)

>>4174651

Rolled 25, 83 = 108 (2d100)

>>4174651

>>4174655
wow, a double 69. Lewd.

>>4174659
>double 69
bonus dice modifier for Lisa next time we meet her for that one, right OP?

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>>4174655
>>4174659
>rolled 25, close one
a glimpse of Giovanni real intentions

Reflecting on everything you learned so far something has been bugging you about Don Giovanni's intentions. Initially you thought it was a party for people sympathetic to Demihumans, maybe it was intended as such but the first people you encountered felt only disgust at Raphaella. They just bear their so-called open-mindedness as a badge. There was also that slave trader who speculated on grain price using cheap Demihuman workforce which apparently displeased several people in the room including Lady Cremosa client. Maybe... Just maybe, wanting the Demihumans gone is a more economic issue disguised as a racial one.

Don Giovanni's attitude can only be explained like that, at least, for the moment.

>rolled 69, failure

After stuffing as many leftovers as you can in a napkin with Raphaella also taking her share, you head for the canal where only young people are still there. Drunk and noisy, they intend to continue to party some more. It's hard to believe you will return to a district where people are self quarantining themselves.

+2 chicken breasts
+2 oranges

"Heeeeeeey!" a drunk young noble throws at you "if that ain't Alfonso Barbati."
"Cazzo! The man himself." his companion continues "Is it true that your captain was a fury just like you?"
"You bet. He ain't no segaiolo, look at that fine racoon ass. Alfonso, my man can you share some? It will spare use the trouble of going to the Redlight District."

The second man who mentioned your captain pukes in the private gondola and the first one has a very hard time maintaining his balance. Their boat isn't very well decorated, nor does it have an Iceburst Stone steam engine, it was probably stolen in another district. You could have found someone better to go home but it's too late now. Raphaella has a hard time containing herself, courtesans do know how to handle drunkard after all.

It's midnight and you have a broken leg, in winter. You wool tunic keeps you warm but you would not want to make the journey on foot past the curfew.
>"we are going somwhere near the Redlight District, can we hope in too?"
>first and foremost, teach these brats a lesson
>maybe Raphaella can handle them

>>4174743
>first and foremost, teach these brats a lesson

damn this hero mentality

>>4174769
They're probably going to end up in the canal. Supporting this, but let's try to avoid drowning somebody.
Also, question for you, OP.
Is the bullet we have compatible with the flintlock we got from Don Giovanni?

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>>4174769
>>4174775
This party propelled you in different world where you interacted as equal with nobles. Sometimes wearing a mask, sometimes showing each other your true colours, disdainful, prideful, but also ambitious, mischievous and even lighthearted. You killed, you made friend but overall you stated true to yourself.

You have done enough, there was no need to get so low as to fight with drunkards. But that was before they mentioned your captain. Raphaella could have handled this, after all you still don't know what she is capable of.

"What did you say about me che cazzo, you little culattone? I'll have you know I graduated top of my class in the Phalangists, and I've been involved in numerous mission in the deadly jungle of the New World, and I have over 300 confirmed polar bears killed."

You describe an arc in the air with your clutch toward the first drunkard who lose his balance and end up in the canal. He does not drown, it's not deep enough in this part of the City but his friend rushes to save him as if he was in a life or death situation. The sense of danger comically exaggerated by alcohol made them look like the most stupid pair of drunkards you ever saw. Truly pathetic.

"Let's go Raphaella."
"Are they going to be alright?"
"Yeah. Let them enjoy the cleanest water in the canals of the City."

With no further delay, you silently take the direction of the West, passing between the Ducal Palace and the City a palace all lighted up by a complex fountain of Mystical Stones. Truly the jewel of the City. Right after, you can see the Elven Embassy where they have planted enough tree to obscure the view of anything man-made. Just above the giant Dwarven Airship silently floating like a big cigar.

Finally, you can see the red lights of Raphaella district. The water vapour is freezing on your hand, without that wool tunic you would have caught a cold for certain. This is going to be a rude winter. The racoon girl plays with her dool to relieve some anxiety.

"So, we have to devise a plan to free my Bernardo, now?"
"I guess... I could go straight in the Citadel myself if I wanted but it's better to have help."
"The assassins from Lady Cremosa, the mafiosos from Don Giovanni... We can use both the individual and their resources. I wonder if they would cooperate."
"I still have to think about it and before that I have to heal my leg and maybe gear up."
"I just wish we could end Bernardo sufferings sooner. I'm not sure he will support another week like that."

>dock at Raphaella brothel and accompany her
>let Raphaella go to her brothel and dock near Luigi's house
>dock farther at Luigi's house with Raphaella

Inventory
-2 chicken breasts
-2 oranges
-Piccoli doll
+1 flintlock pistol
+1 bag of sugar
-cleaver
-Pig's mask
-costume
-wool tunic

Physical 70
Mental 50
Social 40

-10 in stress situation in a crowd
+10 accuracy
-25 to some action due to broken leg
+10 social thanks to fancy costume

>>4174775
no, the bullet is not compatible, it's a full metal jacket bullet and both pistols you own are flintlock pistols requiring paper cartridge with gunpowder and lead ball, so you can adapt it but it will destroy the full metal jacket bullet

who say you can't make gunpowder with the materials you have in this world? maybe try looking in certains places or with certains people for a recipe

>>4174875
>let Raphaella go to her brothel and dock near Luigi's house

don't wanna make Raph go the extra distance but we gotta check in with our peeps

>>4174883
Supporting this. Drop her off, then head home to our place.
We don't want to deal with this cold for too long. Don't want to relapse.

>>4174883
>>4174925
Raphaella jumps on the dock and climb the stairs to the level of the street. You are about to continue in a canal leading inward but realize she forgot her doll. While she is crossing the bridge just above, you can throw her the toy where Piccoli soul is trapped.

Should you let someone else have the responsibility of a soul you separated from its body?
>give Piccoli doll to Raphaella
>keep it for now and think later of what to do with it (free his soul or not)

After making that decision you are finally near Luigi's home, noticing shadows jumping on the rooftops... Wait, you have meat and firearms with you... on the Elven Commando territory. Didn't they said earlier that their mission is precisely to forbid anyone from unloading the ships quarantined in the Harbor?

Maybe you can outsmart them with your silent vehicle and acute knowledge of this part of the City. Thankfully it has no steam engine. Another way to avoid trouble would be to abandon your loot.
>hide the firearm and the meat
>just wait them out patiently (make it home in the morning)
>evade the Elves Commandos (Mental)

>>4174944
>>4174944
>keep it for now and think later of what to do with it (free his soul or not)
Free it.

>just wait them out patiently (make it home in the morning)

>hide the firearm and the meat
Elves are too powerful to evade

>>4174944
>>keep it for now and think later of what to do with it (free his soul or not)
We can decide later. Obviously morally wrong to keep his soul trapped, and could incriminate us in front of the inquisition. If we free it, I assume Lisa would think less of us for that. I'm more interested in throwing my lot in with her and her people over the Don. No interest in an all out assault on the Citadel, that'd make us a major enemy of the militia and Doge. Not worth it. Subterfuge is the better option in this case. So, lets avoid letting our reputation with her taking a hit.
>hide the firearm and the meat
Assuming that hiding the gun and meat means stashing it somewhere, then returning to get it later, I vote for this. Waiting is not an option due to the cold and likelihood of relapsing into stage 2 due to it. Evading Elven commandos is unlikely. Lets just head home after stashing the items safely, and we can send Mario and Luigi to get them in the morning before we send them off to whatever else we decide to have them do.

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>>4175018
>>4175084
Fo now, you will keep the doll which has kept on trying to jump out of the gondola. It really wants to get out. Then, it gets discouraged and start to bump his head of knitted wool against the gondola. How strange.

To not get your precious reward getting confiscated by the Elves, you find a back alley to hide the firearm and the wrapped leftovers. Ready to be searched you head back to Luigi's place to rest for half of a night. Only after changing of street for the second time you hear a familiar commanding voice.

"You. Stop right there. I reek of dead meat and... of gunpowder!"
"I have nothing on my that you banned in this district, just let me-"
"Don't interrupt me fat smelly greasy barbarian!"

It's the Elven captain but without his second to keep him in check, only two other commandos. The rest must be busy keeping an eye on the waters between the Harbor and the Redlight District.

"Do you think the curfew is a joke? What did you bring back from the quarantined ships? A poor exotic animal that you will fry alive?"
"I thought you said I smell of dead meat, so why bring it ali-"
"I know what I am saying. I. AM. NOT. CRAZY."

He fires an arrow which ricochet on the pavement right next to your feet. It's already past midnight and your sleep schedule is completely disturbed, it's cold and you don't have the strength to deal with that knife-ears.

>comply to a search at distance by removing your clothes
>try to bribe the captain with sugar
>I was at a party with your embassador (Social) -20 because he is crazy

>>4175377
>I was at a party with your embassador (Social) -20 because he is crazy

We can describe the ambassador to him if he doesn't believe us. Go into how he got into an argument with a dwarf so he can cross reference our story with witnesses.

>>4175410
Supporting this so no tiebreaker is necessary.

>>4175410
>>4175474
roll 1d100, must be under 30 (40 +10 thanks to costume -20 it's only for bosses and main characters, I'm not tryng to undermine your efforts to gear up)

no bonus, you didn't talk to the ambassador :/

Rolled 75 (1d100)

>>4175486
the ball was too short to talk to him :(

Rolled 29 (1d100)

>>4175486
Fair enough. I figured it was too risky to speak with him, he seemed upset after the duel took place.

>>4175498
REDEMPTION

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>>4175496
>>4175498
>rolled 29, success
joker

"Ah Ah Ah. You?!" laugh the captain "A masqued ball with OUR ambassador?"
"Oh no, no, no. Let me guess captain." an archer join the fun "He kissed a mermaid and won a prize after a duel."

They burst out laughing, not aiming at your any more, so loud that people are opening their windows to see what is the cause of this turmoil. Not considered as a threat by the Elves you are free to go. Hiding the firearm and meat was a safe move, but who could have predicted this outcome? Preparedness is key.

Exhausted and humiliated you climb the stairs to Luigi's apartment and without even noticing Mario welcoming you, fall on a straw mat. You dream about punching that knife-ears face or maybe having a duel with him and trap his soul in a doll like Piccoli.

Oh right, you killed a man. By Sol, you killed for the first time and that is all the effect it had on you? It's not the first time you see death, you even indirectly caused one a week ago, but you killed. Does a Human being really deserve to die for slave trading? Nameless horrors, that you only see on the battlefield, happened the City. So maybe you became unable to feel anything about death now. Are you prepared for what is to come? There are so many white crosses on the doors outside, oh right that tenor Parotti waiting to die at home... alone. Sister Susanna! Is she alright? Bernardo, you have to save him!

>>4175624
"Hey Alfonso! Wake up." it's Luigi "It's already noon and it's ration day."

Something is tickling your pocket, oh it's the doll. You have yet to decide what to do with him. Lady Cremosa said that only a fraction of his soul was trapped inside, preventing him reunification with Sol. Does that mean you can communicate with him? That could be useful.

>attempt to destroy the doll to free his soul from this world
>give it to Hugo, maybe that will keep him busy
>communicate with him and try to 'tame' it

"Amicia" complains Hugo "Why are we going to ration without sister Susanna?"
"We have to eat, Hugo. That's all."
"Where is sister Susanna? Where are dad and mom?"
"Hugo, I..."

It seems that Amicia didn't have 'the talk' with her little brother, or he can't cope with what is happening to him. The poor boy had a near death experience after all, he probably sat in Charon's gondola for a while. Luigi is briefing you on yesterday events.

"So the bridge is done." he proudly claims shoulder to shoulder with Mario "We finished just an hour ago."
"What did you eat?" you ask
"It was a close call. We were 5 and earned 4 cans of meat and 2 Iceburst Stones. But hanks to Mario skilled hand we also won some fruits at the Mystical Stone refinery."
"So a warm meal for everyone. Are you alright? You had to skip a meal, I remember."
"I'm full... Well, I haven't eaten today yet but ration is coming. Thanks to Mario again who only took his fruits despite recovering."

That last part got you worried. Mario had a warm home to rest, vitamins thanks to the fruits he earned but not meat. Is it alright? You still don't know it yet, and he is horribly silent, even shaking a little.

What is going on with Mario?
>observe Mario behaviour (Mental)
>you should take some rest today, stay here after ration distribution

Since it's ration day, everybody should go out to request their weekly ration. But you risk someone discovering your loot. There is also the fate of Parotti you promised to see every day.

Assuming you want the most people out for doing as many tasks as possible, who should stay at home while everyone else is waiting in the line for ration or doing something, else?
>Mario
>Luigi
>Valentina
>Amicia
>Hugo

Should someone try to retrieve the loot?
>someone, write-in
Should someone attend Parotti's solo?
>someone, write-in

>>4175626

>attempt to destroy the doll to free his soul from this world

Slavers might deserve death but not this unnatural torment.

>observe Mario behaviour (Mental)
Have him rest if we can't figure it out


>Amicia
>Hugo

Stay home

>We retrieve the loot since we know where it is
>Tell people about Parotti's solo, whoever wants to go can, make sure at least one person goes though even if it's also us.

>>4175676
rolld 1d100, must be under 50

Rolled 36 (1d100)

>>4175733

Rolled 36 (1d100)

>>4175733

Rolled 62 (1d100)

>>4175733

>>4175740
>>4175764
>>4175858
>rolled 36, success
auto-diagnose

Hands shaking, shortness of breath and you wouldn't be surprise if he developed fever. Still, in no way it would be a relapse, Mario simply has alcohol withdrawal symptoms. Good thing you noticed them early otherwise you would have been totally panicked.

"I'm sorry Mario. I said things that forced you to stop drinking suddenly."
"I... I can endure. Y-You need me right?"

You will have to find alcohol for him or face the consequence of a delirium tremens, and there is no way to tell how the infection will react to this. He can still accompany you to the ration distribution but his fever will probably get worse in the afternoon. Since you remembered so well he has alcohol withdrawal, a certain remedy from the pharmacopoeia of the navy come to your mind. Mister Goodhealth could probably help or you can try for an Apothecary in the Craftsmen District.

"I have to tell everyone something... I met Parotti the tenor."
"The Parotti" Valentina squeals
"Siniore Parotti?" ask Hugo
"Yes, I think he is not taking the quarantine very well. He has plenty of food and is self-treating himself for a Stage One , but I promised that I woul come to listen to his solo every day."
"I miss Siniore Parotti." Hugo sighs

Apparently, two people of your group are huge fans of the tenor. The pregnant woman and the little boy. One who was supposed to come to ration distribution and the other you wanted to stay at home. Since you will retrieve the loot, it will make 3 people available for ration distribution. Thus, you will only have 6 cans of meats and 3 Iceburst Stones for 6 people. Just two day of rations.

Who should go for his solo
>send Valentina to Parotti (4 cans of meat and 2 Iceburst Stones)
>send Hugo to Parotti (6 cans of meat and 3 Iceburst Stones)
>write-in (write-in are always available but I may or may not choose them)

Should you give up ration distribution to retrieve your loot?
>yes (-2 cans of meat and -1 Iceburst Stone, but +2 chicken breasts and +2 oranges with the pistol)
>no (+2 cans of meat and +1 Iceburst Stone, but might lose your loot)
>write-in (write-in are always available but I may or may not choose them)

>>4176163
Would it be possible to stop and visit Parotti on the way to grab our loot? We'd have to stick around for the entire preformance, so the loot still may get stolen, but it should be less of a risk to do that rather than heading to ration distribution, which would likely take several hours.
We can bring Hugo along if that is the case. Sending him alone is a bad idea, as he is obviously very young. And I believe it was mentioned that he could not leave the house because he is too famous. Or something. Piano prodigy, iirc. Parotti would likely recognize him. We should still get a mask on him so no passersby recognize him.
If stopping to visit Parotti ourselves isn't an option, then send Valentina along by herself, while we grab our loot. We can work for more meat, but we can't work for more oranges. The food variety could prove essential.
Also. If they do not already, ensure Luigi and Valentina have cloth masks. It won't be much, but they have not been infected yet, we can't afford to be taking care of more sick right now.

>>4176236
I'm ok with that

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>>4176236
It's already noon but the sun can hardly be seen anywhere, a permanent cloud of water vapour is looming over the canal, hiding Sol knows what. On the other hand, using a gondola is way more discrete than walking in the streets now.

"I will take Hugo to Parotti while getting some food I have hidden in a back alley for us."
"Ok, so we will get the cans of meats. I hope it's better than whale meat, I'm starting to get tired of that."
"Oh you bet it is. You should make cloth masks out of my old shirt."
"I'm not going to do that" protest Valentina
"Come on mi amore." Luigi tries to reason her "We don't have anything left her."
"Can... Can I have at least get the piece the farthest away possible from the armpits?"

Putting your pig mask on the little Hugo, it's time to let him out of the house. Is that Amicia you hear sighing in relief? How hard it must have been for a fourteen years old girl to take care of her little brother. She might be educated and even knows about the disease but it was simply too much.

File: tallboys.png (1.58 MB, 1920x1148)

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>>4176384
Valentina, Mario and Luigi POV

"Let's go Luigi." says Mario shaking under the cold
"Why La Stampa stopped the weather forecast article?" complains Valentina "It's the only part I read."

The coughs. So many people are coughing in line to get their ration. And while most of them are covering their face, some get really upset when they are told to put something on their mouth. Everyone looks tired, looking at the pavement in front of them or waiting for the sword of Damocles to fall down on their neck.

One of the person in the line squeezes his flanks painfully, after a long internal struggle he decides to leave the line and rush to the canal. Hidden by the cloud, what he is doing now leave only little space for imagination. Another man vomit blood right on the back on the person in front of him before getting beaten to a pulp by said person.

"Hear ye, hear ye, citizens"

The chief of the Militia with his ridicule outfit and mounted on his stilts address everyone. The bright purple and yellow of his perfectly tailored yet baggy outfit are the only thing that didn't change in this chaotic scene.

"The honourable Doge of the city is sorry to announce that workers for the Cannery can only be Demihumans for sanitary reason. If you have a slave send him, and we will give him the exact same ration you would have received."
"Damn Demihumans" shout the crowd "Are we not good enough for you?"
"Demihumans are immune and that is a fact. Fishmen who provided us with whale meat have doubled their price so all noble families offered the help of their slave to reduce the cost of the workforce of the Cannery."
"Viva the Doge!" someone screams

The crowd has mixed feeling about this, many were planning to work just after ration distribution to get a supplement.

"Finally, by order of the Doge, it is now mandatory to cover your mouth. If you don't have anything to put on your mouth stay at home. Offender will be sent to disinfection camp."
"What is this again? You want to kill us all far away?"
"... Starting from now, every people suspected from Stage Two will to sent to a camp. And remember, denouncing saves life and is rewarded."

Militiamen who carefully disposed themselves all around are using their pole with fork at the end to pin down everyone with blood on their clothes. Sometimes, a strike miss and end up in a bad place, sometimes they hit the throat on purpose, always laughing, like in a safari.

"By Sol..." Valentina says clinging to her husband
"Let's get our ration and back to the apartment."

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>>4176389
Alfonso and Hugo POV

Hugo acts like he has not seen the outside world for weeks, which is probably true. Getting distracted by the slightest detail and asking unseasy questions.

"Why is that woman waiting on the sidewalk?"
"She... She is waiting for a friend."
"Is that a butcher's shop? Why is it closed?"
"The... the owner had more important things to do."
"Is that person sleeping on the street?"

A woman lies in the gutter, her head resting on the beginning of the pavement using it as a pillow. In her sleep she spilled blood on her stone bed and got into an uncanny position for a Human being, her articulations taking absurd turns. It's the woman whose husband forced her to self-quarantine on their balcony.

If only your leg was not broken you would have taken Hugo into your arms, but right now you can only pull hard on his hand and try to divert his attention.

"S-So , how did you know Parotti?"
"Siniore Parotti and I performed together."

You truly have no culture. Of course, Amicia said he was a prodigy.

"Oh my audience, is that you? And now you are two?" a powerful voice echoes in the street
"It's me siniore Parotti."
"Bambino!" he exclaims "I thought you crossed the Styx long time ago with the assault on your mansion."
"I'm well and my sister too. But we are still looking for our parents."
"Oh... I... I see." Parotti responds confused "But come. Come inside. I stuffed myself with everything in my granary until I was cured. Thanks sol for those dried fruits."

You are invited in the large apartment of Parotti. A well decorated place with lots of windows and heavy curtain mimicking an opera. Letting go of the children, he rushes in the arms of Parotti.

"Oh thank you siniore. Not only do I have an audience to perform in front of but a partner.Here take a chair. Hugo, I have a piano over there."
"What are we playing?"
" 'What' you ask? What else?"

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cWc7vYjgnTs

It's a sad song at first and you are tempted to interrupt him. This time, people are opening their shutters to listen to the melancholic sound of a piano. The harlot who waited for someone to feed her in exchange for her service went under Parotti's balcony even as a client was about to come to her. But the slow and deep whipping of the tenor slowly turn with the melody into a powerful cry of victory. Even Sol's rays pierce the thick layer of cloud to visit his apartment.

In the grand finale, tears are forming on the corner of the harlot's eyes, and she realizes the woman in the pavement has still a breath of life in her. Despite her imminent death that everybody ingnored she rushed to her side to hold her hand in her last moment. On this moment, people of the Worker District realized there was more important things than surviving.

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>>4176416
Everyone makes it back safely to Luigi's apartment. The group which went to ration distribution appears clearly disturbed by what they saw, Mario even shaking harder has to grip firmly the sink of the kitchen. Valentina panicked takes all the cloth masks and toss them in the gutter among the pile of garbage that started to forme weeks ago.

+6 cans of meat (12 meals)
+3 Iceburst Stones (burns non-stop for 8h)
+2 chicken breast (2meals)
+2 oranges
+1 flintlock pistol
diner tonight

Now that your bridge is finished. You can access the Abbey with its Dispensary and the North Slums. There is also the assassins in the nearby cemetery who should have their passage across the Grand Canal. Maybe it's time to save Sister Susanna or Dottore Pastori. Someone outside is nailing the new La Stampa poster, this will surely determine your next action.

[/i]La Stampa Public Edition Settimo : Historical agreement to be made between Elves and Dwarves

The fate of Professore Tornelli is now settled. Despite the effort of their leader and best agent the Fishmen, his project of a submersible boat will probably never profit their people. His so-called miraculous algae of the deep is now forever out of our reach. Indeed, the Dwarves, thanks to a generous compensation, will exfiltrate Tornelli to the Dwarven Kingdom.

Grichka Galilleof, overwhelmed by the death of his twin and badly injured has vowed to never refute the heliocentrism theory. He claims that 'black hole' never existed and even if they did they are in no way a representation of Charon, god of Death. The fate of the nun who tried to rescue them is still unknown.

Finally, against all odds. Dotorre Bernardo Pastori made a miraculous recovery in his cell where he agonized after a suicide attempt. However, he still holds the same view about Demihumans according to the Militia.

We apologize for the lack of weather forecast since the Academy semaphore pressure measurement network was disrupted but as you all notice: Winter is coming.[/i]

"Masks need to be changed daily" notices Amicia
"Ah right." you acknowledge "Why did you not get Stage Two while taking care of Hugo?"
"As long as you don't touch their..." she hesitates "fluids, it's okay. Soap or gloves will do the trick."
"So waterproof clothes too?"
"Definitly."

Maybe someone skilled enough could help with corpse retrieval. The pay is better.

Should someone be sent to work for more resources?
>corpse retrieval
>archeological center

What's your main priorities?
>check on Raphaella
>save sister Susanna
>gear up (potion, gun, equipment, artefact...)
>find essentials (gold, soap, cans of meat...)
>meet with Lady Cremosa/Don Giovanni
>write-in (write-in are always available but I may or may not choose them)

Do you want to spend one hour to turn the full metal jacket bullet into a paper cartridge for your duelist pistols?
>yes (can no longer be used in modern guns)
>no (can fire one round with a pistol)

>>4176533
>>archeological center
Amicia should. I don't feel safe with anything related to corpse removal.

>meet with Lady Cremosa
We might as well get the ball rolling

>no (can fire one round with a pistol)
There's no need to right now.

>>4176533
Backing >>4176767
Except did we ever build that bridge? If so save Susanna. 2 heals/day OP.

>>4176533
Should someone be sent to work for more resources?
No. We're fine for now. Corpse retrieval is too sketchy without seeing the deal with it ourselves, to better understand proper protocol before sending someone out to collect bodies with information that we only understand partially. And Amicia cannot work in the archeological center. I don't think Hugo should either. He's probably too young to travel on his own, and Amicia may be recognized by the foreman.
>>save sister Susanna
Pastori seems to have much more time now, going by the news paper. It seems our visit with Raphaella was a really good call. We have no idea about Susanna. It has been a while already, we should get her out as soon as we can. Or at least investigate the Abbey and try to find news of her fate before doing anything hasty.
>>yes (can no longer be used in modern guns)
There still is that gang after us. It would be much better if we had an actual gun to kick off the eventual confrontation with. We have two flintlocks, but that would just act as a bluff at most, and I doubt they'll back off again.
While we're near the North Slums, we should talk to them and see what they ask for, for potatoes. We should visit the alchemist and buy some recipes. Namely, one for gunpowder. We have a good amount of Iceburst stones now.

Due to the cannery now being off the table, and the archaeological center being fickle work, corpse retrieval is going to be the next logical step. We should head to the tailor at some point and pay off what we owe him for the wool shirt, and additionally buy some masks and gloves for that kind of work. Maybe some additional protective clothing as well, if we see anything that would qualify.

>>4176767
>>4176966
>>4177016
"We should be good with food for now. We even have some orange and fresh meat, so just Amicia should go to the Mystical Stones refinery."

At first surprised as if she was about to protest, Amicia finally doesn't refuse, a sad smile on her face she gives you a resigned look with a small formal bow.

"I will do my best siniore. We owe you a lot."

The heart of teenagers is hard to understand, why would she want to avoid the Mystical Stone refinery? Hugo was easier to satisfy and is now playing in a corner on a fake piano. Oh right, you met her at the archaeological center where she was being beaten by the foreman.

Anything to say?
>someone else should go, write-in
>you can do it, encourage her (Social)
>you should stay/go somewhere else, write-in

Since you already build a bridge to the Abbey, it's time to pay a visit to the Dispensary. The procession healing in the South Slum already happened at noon, so as far as you now it would be the only place where you would meet servants of the Church of Sol. You will be able to assess Susanna situation.

Bring someone with you? (Select as much as you want)
>Mario
>Luigi
>write-in

With the potato field now available, you will be able to trade, maybe even make your own field using a rapid harvest potion to further multiply your gain. Who knows, the knife-ears might like that. Speaking of territory regulating authorities, the Militia said that wearing a mask is now mandatory but you don't have any more cloth but the two layers you are wearing right now. Visiting the tailor should be on you list later today to buy masks and pay what you owe him.

About masks
>some parts of the fancy costume for a mask
>rip off extra cloth from someone else clothes
>it's the first day, maybe they will be forgiving

Bringing the guns will be enough for a deterrent or to be use as a bargaining tool and you can visit the Alchemist to learn how to make Gunpowder in exchange for some fries.

What should you bring with you? (Select as much as you want)
-6 cans of meat (12 meals)
-3 Iceburst Stones (burns non-stop for 8h)
-2 chicken breasts
-2 oranges
-Piccoli doll
-2 flintlock pistol
-1 bullet (only work on
-1 bag of sugar
-cleaver
-Pig's mask

Before going, you notice Piccoli doll jumping from a table to the ground, getting back up, climbing back and jumping again, and again, an again... Is it trying to commit suicide? What a horrible fate you have bestowed him. To think a Human soul would be trapped on vessel without being able to talk or die. What if everyone in the City is dead and Piccoli become the sole 'survivor'? Roaming a desolated land for eons before the knots get loose.

+10 Sol's alignment (this and the Nessun Dorma opera >>4176416)
-5 Charon's alignment

How should you dispose of it?
>drown it in the canal so you can tear off the wool
>undo the knots of the wool dool
>bring it with you to the Abbey, maybe the Church of Sol will know
>write-in
>write-in

>>4177240
Encourage her, bring Mario and Luigi, bring it to the abbey

>>4177240
>>you should stay/go somewhere else, write in
Home for today. She seems capable enough that we could bring her along with us for some things. On top of that, she speaks Elvish. We've dealt with their curfew and that prick captain many times. Her pacifying him is a big reason to bring her along. In the future, however. We're heading to the Abbey, and the Inquisition has it out for her if I remember right. We can't send her to corpse disposal, and sending her to the archaeological center is a bad move.
>About masks
>rip off extra cloth from someone else clothes
This and take one of the layers off from our mask. The fancy costume will lose some of that social bonus, which we should try to keep as high as we can.
>Bring someone with you? (Select as much as you want)
Mario
Luigi
>What should you bring with you? (Select as much as you want)
3 cans of meat. (1 for the debt, 1 for 10 masks, 1 for 5 pairs of gloves)
A flintlock.
The bullet. (barter item, somebody in the Slums warzone may be interested.)
Sugar bag (barter item.)
The cleaver.
>How should you dispose of it?
I believe burning the doll is the best move. Later, that is. Fire falls within the same vein as Sol, and if we bring it to the Abbey, we are sure as shit going to get questioned, or persecuted. And shifting that blame to Lady Cremosa is a bad move as well. If we burn it, then I assume we'll get more Sol's alignment, but lose more of Charon's alignment. I vote to keep the doll, until after we are done dealing with Lady Cremosa. I'd prefer to keep it even longer, but voting for that would be against Alfonso's character now due to that last section of text.

Question for you as well, OP. I checked last thread for the prices for the masks and such, and noticed the leather armor for a gold coin. Can we wear that over the fancy outfit, reinforcing it in some key areas, or is it more of a one or the other sort of thing? Are we going to be wearing both the wool tunic and the fancy costume unless we state otherwise from now on? Or will we have to choose to put it on?

>>4177240
kiss the cute nun

>>4177330
>Can we wear that over the fancy outfit
I'd say no, maybe a mail underneath or a cuirass over but it would be in "another shop". If you want freedom of movements, there is a mithril mail at the tailor shop.

You wear the wool tunic by default as a coat over the costume, you can replace it by a gambeson at "another shop".

>>4177240
>you can do it, encourage her (Social)
>Mario
>it's the first day, maybe they will be forgiving
tell them we're literally on our way to the tailor for mask cloth

>burn the doll

>>4177330
>>4177386
>>4177407
>you can do it, encourage her (Social)
roll 1d100, must be under 50 (40 +10 thanks to costume)

Rolled 44 (1d100)

>>4177417
nat 1 to kiss the nun

Rolled 90 (1d100)

>>4177417

Rolled 82 (1d100)

>>4177417
>>4177429
Please. If anything I'll be hitting that nat one to kiss the cute assassin, bre.

>>4177444
>trips
I am awaiting the next meeting with Lady Cremosa.

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>>4177444
>>4177435
>>4177429
Luigi nods after you said you wanted to rip someone else clothes and suggest using Valentina's long dress. The pregnant lady will not need so much fabric if she stays inside.

"What? No, Luigi!" she protests falling on their straw mattress
"Just a bit Valentina." he insists playfully
"No. No. No. We can't, we have guests."

Luigi tears off vertically on the dress three inches deep and get all the fabric beyond that. Valentina's calves are now exposed, and such depravity has clearly impacted their couple.

"Why didn't you use Alfonso's costume?"
"Don't make this more difficult than it already is, Valentina!"
"And now that monster wants to send the poor Amicia to work!"

-5 when using a skill of Luigi as support
+4 masks

>rolled 44, slight success

You take the teenage girl by her shoulders, she needs to go working while you are out looking for Susanna. That can of meat she will get may be the bargaining item you will use to save someone.

"Alfonso, I..." she starts with teary eyes "you are always so thoughtful of us, I will trust you."
"Uh... bene..."

The girl's burden might have been underestimated. She had to take care of her little brother, hiding him the death of their parents, taking care of him while he excreted blood from all orifices and what you already know at the Mystical Stone refinery. She was so eager to let someone else think for herself that her will vanished.

-5 when using a skill of Amicia as support

An uneasy silence begins as all the men exit to the bridge for the Abbey with their masks. You take 3 cans of meat, a flintlock pistol, the sugar bag, the bullet and your cleaver. Adjusting your clutch you walk to your mates' realization.

A bridge made of planks and gondolas, you are not sure this is stable enough for someone with a broken leg. Beyond the bridge, on the consecrated land, the sun's ray shine on the dispensary through the grey clouds. Here nobody can get infected.

You brought the doll so far but it's time to free Piccoli's soul from the doll. With the church so close, it could help with the fake funeral you will give him. Using the flint of the pistol on some wood chips you light a fire. And so according to the Church of Sol teaching, you give Piccoli a proper funeral.

"Ah ah, look at him go." complaisantly launches Mario as he continues to shake from alcohol withdrawal symptoms

The living doll hold as much as it can to your hand, scared of the fire. You could almost guess the horrified face it is making with his crude facial features. Forcing the doll in the fire with the barrel of your pistol you watch Piccoli fight the fire as it consumes him. Then, suddenly, the doll stops moving and goes limp.

Sol's blessing already granted in advance

How to cross the bridge?
>carefully (Mental)
>have Mario and Luigi help you (Social)
>get a gondola supporting the bridge to cross it

You are lucky I forget the -10 because of Amicia's gold coin wasted for the costume

>>4177513
>carefully (Mental)

Unless the gondola will be fast and not consume resources

>>4177513
>>carefully (Mental)
The social roll will probably have that new -5 to Luigi's support in effect. Fuck that option. We are Alfonso Barbatti, a schizophrenic whose decision making is impacted from the veritable symphony of voices he hears in his head on a regular basis. We can pull this off and make it in this condition. We've gotten this far, after all.
>>4177515
Hey now. "Wasted" is a very harsh term, OP. We're looking slick in this outfit, if Valentina and Amicia cannot appreciate some fine craftsmanship when it is right before them, then that is on them. I only wish I decided to do a precautionary write-in as a fallback option, in case the vote for sending Amicia to work won out over my vote against it. I really must thank you for continuing to run this with so few players. You've got a unique style of running things here, and I appreciate that you take input from all votes instead of just rolling to break the tie.

>>4177542
I assume it will make the bridge less stable, which is definitely a bad move. I figured we'd build a bridge instead of just using a gondola to cross the canal for a more permanent, faster method of crossing it. If we have to hastily retreat from the Abbey after freeing Susanna, we're going to need the bridge intact. Potentially collapsing it if the Inquisition is in tow.

>>4177542
>>4177543
>>4177550
roll 1d100, must be under 50

Rolled 80 (1d100)

>>4177563

Rolled 17 (1d100)

>>4177563

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571 KB JPG

>>4177570
>>4177587
>rolled 17, sucess

Hoping on the bridge you cross it one step after another without any weight shifting, as navigator moving a compass on a map. Meanwhile, Mario holds his flank looking anxiously around him. Everyone finally made it on consecrated land without loosing any of the items you brought or falling in the canal. Despite the light bathing the Church, the atmosphere feels quite heavy here, opressing even. Thick column of black smoke are rising in the sky an merging with the grey clouds.

"You..." a solemn voices stops you "What unholy stones did you bring here?"

A knight, a real knight in a black armour, is dismounting his horse. Straight out of the legends of the past, in this age of industrialization. Fascinated by this uncommon sight, you remember how you wanted to be a hero in your youth. His presence makes your knees weak as all of you see his mace representing Sol with pikes everywhere.

"I smell heresy in the air. You will not make it to the Church without getting rid of that."

He is clearly referring to Mystical Stone and Iceburst Stone, industrialization and technology was never really appreciated by the Church. They even called the plage a curse as a response to Humans trying to imitate Dwarves and loosing themselves in Vulcan's way.

>get rid of the accuracy artefact (artefact giving +10 in accuracy you looted at the Academy)
>someone get back to Luigi's house with the artefact
> can you convince him you are on Sol's side? (Social) (-20 because facing Sol's champion, -10 because of the double unholy nature of the artefact)
+xx bonus depending on your write-ins

>>4177627
>someone get back to Luigi's house with the artefact
can't we just shoot him ?

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>>4177652
You have this type of bullet and only flintlock pistols. You didn't choose to turn it in into a paper cartridge.

>>4177627
>>someone get back to Luigi's house with the artefact
We have no ammunition anyways. We don't exactly need it this time. Instead of Luigi's house, send Luigi with the artifact to stash it somewhere. Cross the pontoon bridge to keep the artifact off of holy ground, and hopefully out of the notice/care of the Inquisition. The bridge is just planks of wood secured onto gondolas, right? Just have Luigi stash it under the planks of one of the gondolas near the shore of the factories district. Should be fine, right? They seemingly weren't disturbed while building the thing, and while Luigi may be seen, but hopefully no one will come tamper with the bridge to see what we're stashing there.

>>4177627
>someone get back to Luigi's house with the artefact

ugh, how did he even know
do they have holy radar?

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>>4177652
>>4177665
>>4177711
"We are sorry, siniore knight. We will dispose of it right away. Can we pass, now?"
"You shall pass, but on my faith if you lie I will send you to Sol personally."
"T-Thank you siniore knight."
"Don't try to mess around with the Inquisition. I am Sol's lightning he guides me to his enemy wherever they are."

artefact giving +20 in accuracy now hidden under the bridge

As Luigi come back after hiding the artefact in a gondola, the grim knight mounts his horse and head for the North Slums. You still have a long way to go before you are able to choose between the potato field and the Dispensary where Susanna and the last Gallileof are held captive. Here bodies laying in the streets are burned right away, all according to Sol's teaching, but nobody has time to find them a decent grave. Maybe this new bridge will be useful to the locals.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fa85ONU_bus

Your journey on consecrated land makes you pass in front of procession. With their incense, trying to purify the air, they engulf the whole area in white smoke. Only their lamentation remain. You stop just in front of an auto-da-fé where once stood a library. A charred corpse which you suppose belonged to the librarian lay next to his equally devastated shop. In normal times, defiance toward the Church encouraged people to seize opportunities and open business here but since the Inquisition came everything changed. Nobody expected them.

The crowd angrily throws books into the fire, you can read some titles embroidered in gold shining in the ashes at your feet.

Treaty of Gnomish Alchemy and Humouralism: altering the mind and body
On the theory of Black Holes and its implication for divine magic
Study of a 2-cycle Dwarven engine for Iceburst Stones: application in naval propulsion

A cloud of white incense smoke hides you for a brief moment, you are sure you can take one book without being noticed. The knight's blessing cannot identify a book content, right?

Pick 1 book from the ashes
>alchemy
>divine magic
>technology
>none, too risky

After that you have to decide where to look for sister Susanna or if you want to trade at the potato field first
>to the Dispensary
>to the Church
>ask a local (Social)
+xx bonus depending on your write-ins
>trade for potatoes andmaybe more first

>>4177731
>alchemy
Fits with our route so far.

>ask a local (Social)
Mention there's a young pair of siblings very concerned about her.

>>4177731
>>none, too risky
Lets avoid this. While I have my doubts about his holy radar being able to detect how heretical a book is, he was pretty reasonable. He could have easily made us turn away, or demanded the artifact so he could have destroyed it himself. He obviously knows we didn't do much to dispose of it, but we can pass regardless. Assuming others overrule my vote, then my fallback vote is alchemy. The divine magic interests me more, but assuming we'd grab the black hole book, that would be the largest heretical tome option. Sol seems to be represented by fire and the sun, and Charon by this black hole we keep hearing about. The Gallieofs were tried for their theories on that.
>>ask a local (Social)
>>trade for potatoes andmaybe more first
Ask the guy we're trading with if he has heard anything on the matter. Due to the burning of the library books, it is safe to assume most here are zealots. Zealots that may report us to the Inquisition if we botched the roll. The trader would likely be a lot less inclined to rat us out to anybody if he thinks he got a good deal from us before we ask the question. Also do what >>4177745 suggested while bringing her up. Though, assuming we do end up with a book (which we definitely will, I don't see my post gathering support) then we should stash it somewhere before heading to the North Slums. That is exactly where the knight rode off to. We may get punished if caught by somebody else, but that is the Champion of Sol, and seems to be a boss character due to his larger negative modifier during the last update. And he already mentioned how he'd punish us if we had lied, so if we head in that direction and have a book, we certainly should stash it beforehand.

>>4177745
>>4177755
roll 1d100, must be under 50 (40 +10 thanks to costume)

Rolled 18 (1d100)

>>4178093

Rolled 29 (1d100)

>>4178093
I preferred the first post

Seems like we're taking that alchemy book since no one came in and broke the tie.
Probably a good thing regardless, we might get fucked over here, but we should definitely look over it before heading to the alchemist next. Check the index for recipes, so we don't have to buy them from the gnomes. Rip out the interesting ones/copy them down, then sell off the book to them or use it as a barter item.

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>>4178095
>>4178111
>rolled 18, success
Alfonso P.E.

Hiding the alchemy book under your wool tunic you check left and right that nobody saw you. Then, after a while you also look up in the air and get attentive to any horse sound. Nothing. You ask the first habitant to emerge of the white smoke about Susanna.

"Have you heard about a nun held captive by the Inquisition?"
"That witch? Course I do, swear on me faith. Tried to rescue the two heretics in the jails."
"So, she is imprisoned with them?"
"The Great Inquisitor made it personal. She's serving under his supervision."

New development unfolds, Susanna is not captive in the jails as you could have initially thought but at the Church. But does that means she is not restrained? Then why does not she come back to the Orphanage or tried to contact the children? Now that you think about it, you never went back there either.

You take the direction of the Church, a tall primitive gothic cathedral. It's really standing out on the flat skyline of the City, as much as the Clocktower and some factories. It has been several hours since the mass but the line for confession is stretching outside. Here, people are not wearing masks and are closer to each other. The disease is the least of their worries on consecrated land against the fear of displeasing Sol.

"Feels more like the waiting line to cross the Styx" comments Mario "I could use a miracle healing. Oh Sol... the shaking. I'm afraid Alfonso"
"I will find you alcohol Mario, don't worry."
"Please, I don't want to feel that tonight as well."

Inside the cathedral, four confessionals are active with sometimes an intense light coming out of the small wooden cabins. People coming, out appear, relieved more lively. It's as if they were granted a miracle healing. You also know that during the mass they use a high alcoholic beverage to light the fires of Sol, there should be an afternoon mass.

"Eh maybe she is in one of those cabin. That Susanna." notices Luigi

Whether she will serve during the mass or is serving actually in a confessional, it's up to you to find out. It's 3PM, one hour before the mass.
>the 3 of you confess your sins, leaving one confessional left, to try to find if Susanna is in one of them
>maybe you can look around the cathedral to check for Susanna before the mass (Mental)
>an offering for the Church that would require access to the pantry (can of meat, sugar bag (Social)
>you have business with the Great Inquisitor, someone to denounce maybe, write-in
>write-in (write-in are always available but I may or may not choose them)

>>4178194
>>the 3 of you confess your sins, leaving one confessional left, to try to find if Susanna is in one of them
Gut feeling. This screams out to me. LSD trip tier option. We have time to kill before mass, so why not? Maybe get through it quickly so we can try and gain access to the pantry. Snag some drink for Mario. He's taken this well. If not, hopefully the confessional will have some effect on him, so if we can't score alcohol before curfew he isn't completely fucked.

>>4178194
>the 3 of you confess your sins, leaving one confessional left, to try to find if Susanna is in one of them

>>4178213
>>4178214
The waiting line takes one hour of your time, you can see the mass in preparation with nuns bringing candles and jar of alcohol from somewhere else. However, since you have no idea of what does sister Susanna looks like you can't do anything with it.

Luigi gets coughed on and you can see him holding his breath, despite being on consecrated land. Mario receives a bit of someone else's blood while that person puke before being conducted forcefully outside by servants. Apparently Stage Two must go to the Dispensary first.

"Sol's light be upon you my child." the male voice in the confessional welcomes you "What are the darkness surrounding you so that you need his guidance?"

Let's hope Mario and Luigi had a better chance, but meanwhile you can choose to confess your sins. That light was intriguing and with your broken leg you could use a miracle healing. Plus, there is something fishy going on here. Doesn't Susanna have only two miracles per day? You didn't saw any change of shift in the confessionals.

Let's try to not bust your allies confess something unworthy of Sol Invictus
>Piccoli doll that you 'found'
>begging for a Fishman to save you
>gondola you stole to the nobles
>working in the Mystical Stones refinery
>"do you know a Susanna?"
>lie, write-in

>>4178258
>>gondola you stole to the nobles
This entire line up of options makes me uneasy. This seems to be the safest bet. Best not to mention the doll, or Susanna. Even the mystical stones refinery. We don't know much about Sol. Best not say anything that incriminates other people. In any way. Avoid the subject entirely. We already had a guy immediately sense an unholy artifact. I want to avoid the options even potentially linked to people (Amicia and Cremosa, namely) that are persecuted by the Inquisition. Some kind of holy lie detector may be in the picture.
Piccoli Doll: Linked to Cremosa, even if we leave her out of it, I'm still not certain we should even bring this up.
Fishman: Linked to the Fishman, potentially the Ogress in the RL district.
Gondola: Linked to Raphaella. Potentially.
Stones Refinery: Linked in a way to Amicia, we found her there after she was being assaulted by the foreman. Amicia is being persecuted by the Inquisition along with Hugo, due to their parents.
Susanna-Linked to the entire operation. It may be straight forward and actually get an answer, but I still feel paranoid about this.
Should've definitely went to the damn potato field first. Already 4PM, we're going to lose more time looking for her after the confession, even if we find her then we have to deal with getting her away from here, and by then the potato field will hardly be an option. It's not like we can stroll up to the Great Inquisitor and ask if the woman considered to be a witch can leave with us.

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>>4178298
"I stole a gondola to some drunkards to get back home." you confess
"I see. Sol Invictus doesn't reward stealing, it's the way of the weak and thief, of Laverna." he explains patiently "Why did you steal that gondola, my child?"
>they insulted my honour
>I needed the gondola to get home
>they probably stole it first
>lie, write-in

>>4178319
>I needed the gondola to get home

was why we stole it, but we didn't feel too guilty because

>they probably stole it first

>>4178319
>>they insulted my honour
"I had approached them peacefully, attempting to build a rapport with them so I could travel with them across the canal to a mutual destination, but instead they tossed insults toward me."
>>I needed the gondola to get home
"It was past the curfew, and the cold began to bite. In these dark times one cannot afford to be out late, in the cold. I needed to return home to my brothers and friends before they began to worry. While those men insulted me, I fear for them. They may have been out all night freezing, assaulted by the winds."
Avoid the last option. It seems like a petty shift of the blame. Bad move. Especially in a confessional.

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>>4178324
>>4178343
"To take what ones need is indeed the way of Sol. Human were given the Art of War by Sol to be forever victorious and claim the world theirs."
"I needed the gondola to get home" you answer no more details
"But you said they were drunk. To take advantage of the weak is not virtuous."
"They stole it first." the word spontaneously come out of your mouth "And they insulted my honour."
"If we only rob people who are weaker than us, than we are no different from savages and orcs. It creates resentment and a vicious circle of ill-intent. You should meet them again and settle this when they are at their peak. What did they saiy?"

Strangely, you can't spill out more than a few words, your throat feels swollen by remorse or something when you are here. You think hard about convoluted ways to depict things to your advantage but only the truth comes out of your mouth. Maybe with a lie made from scratch it could work.

>they insulted my friend
>they insulted my captain
>they were just really offensive
>lie, write-in

>>4178352
>they insulted my friend

Raph is a friend

>>4178355
Supporting this. Remain vague about this friend's identity, however.
Leave the captain out of this. Would be best to avoid revealing who we are here.

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>>4178355
>>4178361
"They insulted my friend" you spill
"Fighting for the weak is a great responsibility, my child. But do not use it to cause unnecessary fights"
"I understand" you answer, relieved
"May you be forever victorious in battle and just participate in fair fights."

You hear something dropped in water and a light fills the cabin. However, your broken leg still hurts. As you meet up with Mario and Luigi, you can't help but notice a change in their behaviour.

"Hey, Alfonso" cheerfully welcomes you Mario "I think Sol likes me."
"What happened?
"I had to confess that I worked in the Mystical Stones refinery, and I was dragged away to talk about the bridge" he admits in shame "but then I told them about the Elves we fought a week ago, and I was granted the light."
"Good. So, you are cured of your addiction?"
"I can always come back if needed" he shrugs.

Then why does your leg still hurt? Do they grant a miracle healing just when they are pleased of what you did? What was that light, then? You turn to Luigi who has a more serious tone than usual.

"Alfonso, I..."
"What is it Luigi?"
"I think you should apologize to Valentina."
"What?"
"We should have use that fancy costume of yours. After all, you live under my roof."
"Wait, what did they say to you in the confessional?"
"That I should not let myself be ruled like that and defend what is mine."

>apologize to Luigi and promise you will too to Valentina
>no, it was the right move, the costume is too important

They really turned him against you. That confession has its risks, rewards and its own set of rules. You have to be more careful next time if you want to have a free miracle healing. Maybe doing something more heroic than battling a bunch of drunkards. The mass is about to begin.

>trade for potatoes and maybe more at the North Slum
>try to ask one of the nuns preparing the mass about Susanna, then attend the mass
>you have business with the Great Inquisitor, someone to denounce maybe, write-in
>write-in (write-in are always available but I may or may not choose them)

>>4178385
>>apologize to Luigi and promise you will too to Valentina
We fucked up here. At least Mario is better off. Hopefully his healing alleviated any risks that came with the blood that was coughed onto him.
>try to ask one of the nuns preparing the mass about Susanna, then attend the mass
All in now. We came here to find her. It was mentioned that she only had two heals. Searching for her there was a bad move. Maybe those manning the confessionals are more senior members of the church and so can bestow more? Either way, it seems like that was a bad mjavascript:;ove.

>>4178385
>apologize to Luigi and promise you will too to Valentina
>try to ask one of the nuns preparing the mass about Susanna, then attend the mass

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>>4178401
>>4178403
"Bene, bene..." you conceed "I'm sorry Luigi. I just thought it was the right thing to do. I will apologize to Valentina."
"R-Right" he seems relieved.

Inside, you can't help but feel like you deserve this costume, it's like a hero costume like in the play about that masked hero of the New World who defend peasants. You have done him wrong, though, unlike a hero you didn't think enough of how people around you might think.

"Let's attend the mass." you tell your mates

Everyone grabs a candle that will be lit on Sol's altar. The nuns have poured all the alcohol in a large bowl where the holy fire will start. Mario can't help but focus on that large pool of divine nectar. The servant you have taken the candle from bestow you a large smile, seeing that you come back from the confessional.

They are all fairly young, probably unwanted daughter of nobles who went really early in a convent or orphans who didn't want to leave the Church. How are you going to mention Susanna? Will you bet on their good-natured smile or their fear of the inquisition?

>hear about Susanna, the orphans miss her
>I hope that Susanna witch will not attend the mass

>>4178417
>hear about Susanna, the orphans miss her

>>4178417
>>hear about Susanna, the orphans miss her
This will not end well.

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>>4178420
>>4178424
"Have you heard about Susanna?"
"Susanna?" the nun gasps, her pupils dilating
"Yes, the orphans miss her."

That last sentence makes her drop the crate of candles and get the attention of the mother superior. You stop a rolling tube of wax with your clutch which she picks up while maintaining close contact with you. Her religious headgear brushes against you as she adjusts her standing position to get close to your ear.

"The Great Inquisitor has her in the Sacristy before the mass." she whispers

Impossible to get more from her without getting the mother superior to scold the poor nun, she looks angry enough of this impious contact with a believer. The mass is about to begin however, you can even see a flash of light coming out of the Sacristy. This is your only chance, while everyone is attending the mass, but you will look suspicious going out after getting your candle, especially when you stand out as that one guy with a clutch.

>pass a message to Susanna, write-in
>send Mario to access the Sacristy from outside
>send Luigi to access the Sacristy from outside
>everyone attend the mass

>>4178446
>send Mario to access the Sacristy from outside

>>4178446
>>send Luigi to access the Sacristy from outside
We may not be on the best terms with him right now, but is the safest bet if we still want to contact Susanna. Mario essentially asked if Amicia was hot last thread, before we mentioned she was fourteen. Luigi is married. Lets go with this. Mario is better off now, but some paranoia about this is seems to be a good call.
"Luigi, my brother. While Mario and I attend mass I would like you to access the Sacristy from outside, to meet Susanna. I want you to tell her that we have met a pair of orphans who know her, and how have helped them recover, and are now looking after them. Also mention that we would like to try to meet her again alone once she has a chance to talk.
Careful not to mention Amicia or Hugo by name. We know they're persecuted by the church, and we don't know who is listening.

Rolled 2 (1d2)

>>4178466
>>4178467

>>4178258
>>begging for a Fishman to save you
There's a bunch of fishmen out there. They won't know who they're messing with.

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>>4178466
>>4178467
>>4178515
You send Luigi outside to access the sacristy of the cathedral and take place with Mario on a bench. The nuns have all gathered in a choir to start a chant as the organ plays with them, feeling the huge edifice with a grim atmosphere.

Loud bangs echoes rhythmically in the cathedral, far above the chants and the organ. These are the sound made by the cross of an old man coming out of the sacristy. Bend and disfigured by many scares, an undying flame dance in his only eye left. The Great Inquisitor himself is leading the mass.

"The Lord show me the way; I shall not flee." He starts slowly, as everybody follows in unisson.

He gives me the sword and the shield. He restores my soul. He leads me in paths of righteousness for his name's sake. Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your light and your warmth, they comfort me. You put my enemies in my reach; you give strength to my arm; I shed their blood for your glory.

Satisfied with the response of his flock he starts his sermon using his staff

"Rejoice believers, for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God but redemption is coming. I sometimes hear 'O Great Inquisitor, why did Sol punish my son? Why did he kill him when he was just a child?' But never do I hear 'I will avenge my son.'"

The crowd get agitated, discussing between them.

"Be angry!" he screams shivering after striking with his staff turned in a rod of light "Do not wait for someone else to solve your problems. We all know who is responsible. Who packed you in those cities, away from the battlefield. Those who conspire day and night to craft a life of idleness for all."
"Kill them" the people answer "kill the savants."
"Yes. Yes. Yes! We shall welcome this curse. It makes us stronger. And with Sol's guidance, Mankind shall rule over all being."

Everyone gathers to light their candle on the divine fire that the Great Inquisitor started with his staff. The mass end with a second psalm.

"But as for the cowardly, the faithless, the detestable, as for murderers, the sexually immoral, sorcerers, idolaters, and all liars, their portion will be in the cold river of the Styx away from the warmth of Sol, which is the second death."

+5 temporary Sol's alignment
-5 temporary Charon's alignment

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>>4178519
The believers rush outside with their candle, being very careful to preserve the divine fire. You use that turmoil to meet with Luigi. He looks confused.

"So did you saw her?"
"There was a nun, chained to some sort of throne."
"Was she alright?" you inquire panicked
"Yeah, totally fine. No burns, no bruises but that doesn't really mean anything for the Inquisition when they have healing magic
"What did she say?"
"She thought this was a trick from the Inquisition to make her talk. I don't really know Amicia and Hugo well, so... Anyway, I could not break the chain. Maybe with a tool or a loaded gun."
"I will go myself then."
"Ah... I only got out of there when I heard the Great Inquisitor coming back."

Susanna is alive. And now you know that she is left alone by the Inquisition during the mass. Since there is one at dawn, noon and one that ends one hour before sunset there should be plenty of occasion. You just have to come prepared and this is precisely what you intend to, heading to the potato field.

You get there at around 5PM and curfew is in one hour, too late to visit the tailor. The knight in black armour is there, watching silently the fight between the North and South Slum, but not participating. Since the last time you came near the warzone, the violence clearly escalated. More building have been turned into ruins, incendiary device are thrown on this side every minute but on this side...

"What a mess." comment Luigi
"They sure have spirit these Northerners, I like them." Mario adds

Here, people on the verge of death are healed back to life by priests for free. And they return fanatically to fight as if it was nothing, their determination unaffected. However, the servants of Sol does not take part in the fight either, they are just healing them. One child who was treated for a broken leg run to the position he occupied before he received the huge rock that turned his leg into a pulp. Dulled by the healing spell he falls and break his teeth front. Yet, unaffected he rises.

What do you ask him?
>ask about the potatoes
>can they heal your leg too?
>write-in (write-in are always available but I may or may not choose them)

switching to slow mode for updates, faster pace at 2PM EST

>>4178523
>can they heal your leg too?

>>4178523
>>can they heal your leg too?

>>4178523
>can they heal your leg too?

minus 25 malus OP

>>4178529
>>4178824
>>4178880
"No 'f'ance mate." he mumbles between his broken teeth "Only for the bra'f'est, the 'f'osen ones who fight. 'F'hey turn us into 'f'ampions of Sol here."
"So I only if I get hurt in your warzone, right?"
"Damn right."

Now that you have seen the to sides of this battlefield, it's easier to understand their war microeconomy. The South, having access to the Craftsmen District have gunpowder and potions and only need guns and food. Meanwhile, the North receive free healing with the Church and don't need food thanks to their potato field.

You look at the exchange of gunfires and incendiary devices, it mainly comes from the other side while yours is just throwing rocks. Some fanatics are charging with makeshift lances and only come back with one or two bullet holes, sometimes they don't.

Since a miracle healing won't be useful to Mario or Luigi, you can try to do your part.
>you can climb a ruin and throw a rock at the other side (Physical)
>you can throw you cleaver from a safe position (Mental)
accuracy artefact would have been useful here
>you will find another way to heal your broken leg
+xx bonus depending on your write-ins

>>4178988
>you can climb a ruin and throw a rock at the other side (Physical)

I mean, we don't even need to hit them right? Just try?

>>4179008
roll 1d100, must be under 45 (70 -25 due to broken leg)

Rolled 31 (1d100)

>>4179052
yup, it's healing time

Rolled 33 (1d100)

>>4179052

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>>4179064
>>4179115
>rolled 31, success
it's a success, right?

"Bene." you sigh 'Hold my stuff you tell Luigi."

Walking alongside the enthusiast toothless kid with your clutch like two wounded warriors going back for more, you find yourself a wooden edifice that has not been torched yet. The kid fills a basket with rocks from the pavement that is long gone and pull a rope tie to a pulley in order to bring it to the rooftop.

Meanwhile, you climb the stairs using your clutch. One step after the other. The sun is already starting to pass beyond the horizon so it's very dangerous but you don't miss any step. A rock hurls through the stairs, propelled by an artisanal mortar from the South. Finally, making it to the top, you are ridiculized by a bunch of children.

"What's going on siniore?" one laughs "You fell in your bathroom."
"Have some respect little coglione."
"Ok, bo-"

He does not end his sentence, a bullet right in the chest make him lose his balance and fall from the building.

"Pfff, what a stupid death." another comments "This is why, I, will be Sol champion."

Taking a few rocks from the basket you aim as far as you can in the general direction of the gunshot. Altering between taking cover and throwing insults and rock at the Northerner, several baskets are emptied, like your perception of the value of life.

After an hour or so, the children no longer insult you, neither do they pay you respect. Throw a rock. Take cover. Throw a rock. It's like clockwork. You hope that nobody on the other side saw you. It would be hard to explain your presence on both side of the warzone. Climbing down carefully, you request a miracle healing with the boy who lost his teeth.

A similar light than the one you received in the confessional blinds you for few seconds. Though the pain has disappeared, your leg feels numb from being suspended for so long, you remove the splint and realize you still need the clutch.

"Huh... Are you alright, Alfonso?" asks Mario
"... Bene" you answer calmly

You bone is healed, but something else was broken inside you. It's something to kill a bad guy in duel, it's another to let someone drown in a canal and watch a child fall from a rooftop. But you are a true warrior, now, aren't you?

-25 due to broken leg removed

The curfew has started and people taking care of the potato field are probably in a tavern, now. Will you try to find them to trade for the precious tuber, or will you just sink deeper and steal them?

>steal potatoes (Mental)
>find them in a tavern (1 hour)
>let's turn back at least to the bridge

>>4179120
>>find them in a tavern (1 hour)
Stealing in a warzone would be incredibly foolish, even if we succeed the roll, I doubt we'd be able to come back here in the future without some difficulty. It may be too late to head to the tailor's shop at the end of this unfortunately. Hopefully we won't have repercussions for waiting another day to return to pay him what we owe.

Changing my vote to:
>let's turn back at least to the bridge
Lets return home as soon as possible, grab dinner and apologize to Valentina. Then look at our options after that.

>>4179120
>find them in a tavern (1 hour)

That French fry fanatic alchemist makes them worth their weight in gold.

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>>4176533
>diner tonight
>around 5PM
>this spoiler

>>4179120
>find them in a tavern (1 hour)

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>>4179147
>>4179152
>>4179228

Despite the lack of Mysticacal Stones streetlamps in the district, candles are doing a great job at pushing back the darkness. The first tavern you visit is the closest to the warzone, where priests as well as Southerners are drinking until they are knocked out.

"To the Elven Forest I went,
Wishing to spend Saturnalia.
But those heathens tree huggers,
Didn't decorate their pines.
AND SO I MADE KNIFE-EARS GARLAND
KNIFE-EARS GARLAND, KNIFE-EARS GARLAND
BY CHOPPING THEIR POINTY EAAAAARS"

That was something... Mario really enjoyed the song, but you and Luigi didn't find anybody who might know about the field. The second tavern you come into is quieter. They are busy discussing theology and divine magic. Then a heated debate start at the mention of the Gallileof brothers.

"Freezing water of the Styx! What did you say you filthy heretic?"
"Sol is the strongest because our world revolves around his celestial body, but that doesn't..."
"Sol is the strongest because he is the strongest!"
"Yes, but what if there was another sun? Or no sun?"

No chance here and it's almost 7PM, the law enforcers will be without mercy if they see you out. The last tavern seems to be the one, there is no religious discussion or priest. Even better, some people at the bar have dirt on their forearm. One is trying to negotiate a bag of potato with the barman.

"Come one, you can make a few bottles of alcohol with that." he complains
"I don't care, there is already plenty of booze for winter." the barman responds
"Can we at least exchange potatoes for alcohol? Or your ration of meat? I am getting tired of potatoes every day."

What are you willing to trade for the potatoes?
-3 cans of meat
-1 flintlock pistol
-1 sugar bag
-1 bullet
- cleaver
-alchemy book
-3 candles with divine fire

>>4179326
-1 can of meat

>>4179326
>1 can of meat
Offer the sugar bag and/or the bullet, depending on the deal. If he isn't happy with just one can, that is. Try to get as many potatoes as possible.
"Greetings signore, I overheard your conversation with the barman. Would you like to trade your harvest for some meat? Or perhaps something else may interest you. I'm sure we can come to an agreement"

>>4179336
>>4179339
Still feeling a bit numb from what you saw and because of your leg, you just hammers a can of meat on the counter, pointing at the bag of potatoes. The farmer states his prices for each item your propose and his very interested in that bullet.

-1 can of meat for 2 potatoes
-1 bag of sugar for 2 potatoes
-1 bullet for 4 potatoes

"I harvested everything I could because I don't know when the cold is coming this winter?" he complains
"Oh?"
"Someone should repair that the Academy weather forecast machine."
"I heard about that."
"I don't care about heresy, that was damn convenient. These potatoes grow in one week if the sun can keep the soil warm for seven days straight."

These New World's potatoes are extremly convenient but since winter is coming it will be hard to have seven days of clear sky.
>what's your offer, write-in
>ask something about weather forecast, write-in
>ask something about potatoes, write-in

>>4179375
>what's your offer, write-in
Trade the bullet and the can of meat.
I'm sure we can find someone more interested in that bag of sugar somewhere else.
>ask something about weather forecast, write-in
Ask more about the machine's capabilities. What is the extent of what it can do?
Have they heard about just how broken it is?
What happened to those who know how to repair it? Are any specialists left in the city?

>>4179375
>>4179388
Backing and ask who normally repairs it when it breaks down

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>>4179388
>>4179397
"Tell me more about the machine." you asks
"Eh? I'm just a farmer." the peasant shrugs "But I read La Stampa to get the report and know when it will rain or when it will freeze."
"What happened exactly? Can they repair it?"
"I don't know, everything happens at the Academy of Natural Philosophy but everybody knows what happened to them."
"Fine, I will just exchange this bullet and a can of meat for six potatoes."
"Deal. I still a plenty in stock if you want more."

Someone else might be more interested in this bag of sugar you think. Also, maybe that it can be used to craft some alchemy potion but you will have first to decipher the book or buy a recipe at the alchemist store.

Your group get out of the tavern after an afternoon half waster. You know about Susanna whereabout, got some potatoes but don't know if you can grow them and got your leg healed. However, you did not save the nun or buy masks like you intended to and you got exposed to some merda.

"It's not like we could have rushed head first into the Inquisition jails with no plans" reproaches Luigi
"Hey Alfonso is doing is best." Mario supports you
"I hope we are not just going present ourselves at the Citadel like that. We don't even have gunpowder."
"Well, are you an alchemist? Because even I can't make gunpowder. I just know that it's made with Iceburst Stones."

Noticing their argument with indifferent stare, you feel a drop of water falling right on your head, than shoulder and hand, now it's pouring on all your body. Lighting strikes on the Church's spear, announcing the start of a torrential cold rain. Your group manage to make it to the bridge completely drenched where you luckily find the artefact back.

+10 accuracy restored

"I could use one of the resist cold potion we had on the Polaris right now." complains Mario
"My feet hurt, I just want to go home. I'm hungry." adds Luigi

The nearest safe place is probably the crypt of Lady Cremosa's family, but you don't know if your friends will be welcome. You can use a large plank of the bridge to shield all of you from the rain, with at least two people to support it, hoping the bridge will not mind one missing structural component. Alternatively, you can use a gondola and a plank to get to your house faster but the bridge will definitely collapse.

How should your group go home
>use a plank to shield you from the rain
>use a plank but also a gondola to make the trip faster
>those who don't go home get to the Cemetery

If you choose to go to the Cemetery, who accompanies you?
>Mario
>Luigi

-1 cans of meat
-1 flintlock pistol
-1 sugar bag
-6 potatoes
- cleaver
-alchemy book
-3 candles with divine fire

>>4179704
>All go to the cemetery
They're our brothers in arms

>>4179704
>>use a plank to shield you from the rain
Best to visit the cemetery once we're alone. They're our brothers in arms, though I doubt they'll be keen on the idea of us meeting Lady Cremosa, an assassin aligned with Charon. And we shouldn't head there anyways with this hit to our reputation with Charon. We should at least wait until this -5 rep wears off before visiting there. Not to mention, she may not like us bringing them along.

I'm still uncertain about what could happen during dinner tonight. We should not vote to spend our time with a lame fuckaround, a waste of time.
We should head home a soon as possible. Even if we get cold on the way back, we'll have an Iceburst stone waiting for us at home. If we head to the cemetery we'll be squatting in a cold mausoleum/crypt for who knows how long.

>>4179704
Use a gondola, don't bother with the plank unless it's wide

Rolled 1 (1d2)

>>4179730
>>4180097

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>>4179716
>>4179730
>>4180097

It's definitely safer to go home you think. Using a large plank that both Marion and Luigi rise above your head you make it home around 10PM. Completely soaked from your previous exposure, your shielded yourselves from more unnecessary cold rain. Like a wet dog coming its tail between his legs you rush upstairs and undress to use the warm Iceburst Stone evaporating as a chimney fire.

As promised you muster a few words of apologize to Valentina, but she is fascinated by her husband who came home with new food and after trying to liberate an imprisoned woman. He is totally the hero of the day and collect his reward in a private area of the small apartment.

"Welcome home Alfonso." Amicia says with a monotone voice.

The three divine candles that you managed to protect from the rain are still burning. They are the only light that you carry since the one behind your eyes has vanished. Amicia welcomes you with a cooked can of meat and equally dead eyes, just a sincere smile. Like a small child she is probably waiting to be praise for getting that can of meat from the Mystical Stone refinery where she was previously beaten. What horrors she had to face? After coming back, Hugo and her had chicken for diner, recooked by the woman of the house who really enjoys spoiling them.


Eating your ration silently, you do not care any more and get to sleep, expecting Mario to take the first turn and Luigi the second. You dream about the two children under your protection, a nightmare to be precise. Amicia pushing Hugo from a roof, then hugging you with a big smile showing well needed relief. The corpse of Hugo is then trampled on by a crowd of fanatics. In this valley of despair, far away a fire is burning pushing away the forces of evil. Luigi bursts out of a smoke screen to reach it first but your legs have been replaced by knitted wool.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UMrc4kxot6M

Too many bad experiences leading you astray from the path of a true hero
>will you reach the light first? (Mental)
>or stop Luigi first?

>>4180395
>>will you reach the light first? (Mental)
Luigi is one of our brothers. We should not concern ourself with stopping him, or sabotaging him. We can reach the end together.

>>4180410
roll 1d100, must be under 50

Rolled 13 (1d100)

>>4180487

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>>4180501
>rolled 13, success
consequence: no -5+5 to your main attributes

You let go of Amicia and dash toward the light. If there is a hero here, it's you, not Luigi but you are not going to sabotage him. On the contrary, the better your opponent and the more arduous the task is, the better the prize is. The girl behind you cheers from the top of your lung, getting you out of your stupor. That's right, these are not your legs, you recovered now. And Hugo is not dead! He is safe under your roof, wait... he is actually playing piano?

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kPZRb4_G7sc

The final push of the craziest race you ever done in your sleep end with you winning. You wake up sweaty, you hand expanding to the dying flame of the last candle. Did the divine light show you the way? Your clothes are completely dry now, near the stove where the Iceburst Stone has evaporated during the night.

temporary +5 Sol's alignment ends
temporary -5 Charon's alignment ends

"Are you alright Alfonso?" ask Luigi offering his hand
"Like a baby" you throw in come back giving him a firm grip to stand up
"G-Good... You were kind of agitated, so I and Valentina couldn't... well... glad you are back."

The hand grip turn into a firm handshake. Seems like you are back in the game but you don't want to experience that level of despair ever again. At least not for something as selfish as saving yourself, you are a hero, right?

This morning the fog has overextended from the canal and taking root in the streets. Streetlights appear as floating orbs of light in that mist, more are missing each day in the district. As soon as you get back from the window, Amicia and Hugo are on your tail.

"What should I do today, Alfonso?" the girl ask with abandon.
"Siniore Alfonso, can I meet Parotti again today? Or my parents, can you find my parents?" Hugo whines.

Amicia looks at him with a smirk, knowing that she will no longer have to deal with this since you are here. Is there something you want to say to Amicia?
>Sorry I sent you to the Mystical Stones refinery
>You should take care of your little brother (Social)
>You had it rought, eh? Let's have 'the talk' with Hugo

Since rolls seem to appear easier to you, note that I can only guarantee a positive outcome on what you roll for.

>>4180547
>Sorry I sent you to the Mystical Stones refinery
>>4180548
>Since rolls seem to appear easier to you
what did he mean by this ?

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>>4180555
"Sorry I sent you to the Mystical Stones refinery"
"Oh..." she says tenderly "You don't have to apologize. "
"But it must have been hard to-"
"PLEASE NO." she sobs "You make the decisions, the best decisions. I don't want to think any more."
"Are you alright, signorina?"
"I know... let's escape. There must be the remains of a balloon in the Academy that can support two persons."

She is not fully back to previous herself but looks more combative now. It's an improvment, fore sure.

Yesterday you found out where sister Susanna was, but you need more expertise on her restraints chaining her to that wooden throne. At least, there is a window of opportunity to try something in the sacristy before the mass. There is one in two hours at dawn, one at noon and one that ends one hour before dusk.

The fate of Bernardo is also to be considered. He seems to hold up to the hope that Raphaella will come for him but who knows what terrible ordeal the Militia is giving him. In both cases, you need a plan first. Thankfully your leg is healed but it's not like you assault the Citadel or the Church like that with an empty gun.

Paradoxically, you need an alchemist to make gunpowder and save an alchemist. Or maybe you can try the Craftsmen District. There are also those potatoes you can turn into fries for the Gnome or maybe plant in a small garden. They can be harvested in one week if the weather is good enough. Speaking of weather, you heard several times about a problem with the Academy forecast system. Finally, there is the problem of masks, you only have one left before tearing off your own clothes or completely stripping someone of a vital piece of clothe for outside expedition.

Should someone be sent to work for more resources this afternoon? (Luigi, Mario, Amicia, Hugo, You)
>corpse retrieval
>archeological center

What's your main priority today?
>check on Raphaella and come up with a plan to save Bernardo
>come up with a plan to save sister Susanna
>meet with Lady Cremosa/Don Giovanni regardless

And what are your secondary objectives?
>to the tailor store to repay your debt (-1 can of meat)
>read the alchemy book with the help of Amicia (whole morning)
>gear up (potion, gun, equipment, artefact...)
>find essentials (masks, gold, soap, cans of meat...)
>write-in (write-in are always available but I may or may not choose them)

Also
>send someone to Parotti, write-in

[Inventory]
-4 cans of meat (8 meals)
-2 Iceburst Stones (burns non-stop for 8h)
-2 oranges (vitamins)
-2 flintlock pistol
-1 bag of sugar
-cleaver
-Pig's mask
-6 potatoes (6 meals, vitamins)
-alchemy book
-wool tunic (protect you from cold)
-fancy costume (+10 social)
-accuracy artefact (+10 accuracy)
-1 mask (mandatory outside)

Physical 70
Mental 50
Social 40

+10 Sol's alignment
-5 Charon's alignment
-10 in stress situation in a crowd
+10 accuracy
+10 social thanks to fancy costume

slow mode until 2PM EST

>>4180580
>archeological center
Luigi
>come up with a plan to save sister Susanna
>read the alchemy book with the help of Amicia (whole morning)

>>4180580
>>archeological center
Send Luigi.
>check on Raphaella and come up with a plan to save Bernardo
Lets clear up the plan for this before we clear up the plan for Susanna. I'm sure both have a time limit, but Bernardo seems like he's running out. We can deal with gearing up today.
>to the tailor store to repay your debt (-1 can of meat)
>trade in the craftsman district (alchemist/weapon shop/blacksmith)
For masks, could we tear up our old clothing completely? Like, the shirt we tore the sleeves off of to make the first masks.
>send someone to Parotti, write-in
Alfonso. In the morning, on the way out to his business. If ripping up our old shirt is an option and we have the masks to spare, bring Hugo and Valentina. She mentioned wanting to see Parotti the day before. This could be a way to make it up to her for yesterday. Or set her off more due to being seen outside in her shredded up dress.

>>4180580
>archeological center
Mario

>check on Raphaella and come up with a plan to save Bernardo

>to the tailor store to repay your debt (-1 can of meat)

>find essentials (masks, gold, soap, cans of meat...)

>Everyone who wants to go to Parotti can, as long as Hugo has a babysitter.

>>4180592
>>4180962
>>4181103
Under your fancy costume you have the shirt Luigi gave you after your ruined the one previous one to make masks. Not needing that extra layer since you have the wool tunic, you chose to tear it apart to make masks.

"hmph" comments Valentina visibly annoyed "You can make concession after all."

+6 masks

The weather outside is cold but not freezing, not yet. Someone could venture in that mist for half a day but will probably need to get in a warm place after that. It would be different with a waterproof coat. Speaking of warm place, you think about the brothel where Raphaella and that Ogress are. It's time to save Bernardo, maybe you could find useful stuff after that.

"Luigi, can you go at the Mystical Stones refinery?"
"Sure thing, mi fratelli."
"Bene." you rejoice "Then anyone who want to go see Parotti at noon can. Huh..." Valentina is tapping her feet on the ground to show her annoyance "Oh right, you can't go outside like that."
"No indeed, porco." she ironically throws "I'm not that sort of woman, plus it's too cold with this ripped off dress."

Since you want to stop by the tailor, you could do something about, but you need at least one can of meat to repay him for the wool tunic. Then you will be looking for essential items, like masks, gold or soap, maybe more cans of meat. There's probably more gold in the Dead Zone that nobody dare to steal. Soap can probably be home-made but you don't know the recipe, maybe the Alchemist or an Apothecary like mister Goodhealth can help or sell something similar.

Also, if you want that grumpy old Gnome to make you a healing potion, you will have to find gold. Otherwise, fry some potatoes using the fat of a whale meat can and an Iceburst Stone, then you will be able to buy any other available potions or recipes.

What do you take with you on your way to meet Raphaella and then the Craftsmen District?
Inventory
see >>4180580

Do you want someone to come with you? (Mario, Amicia)
>someone, write-in

>>4181153
>Amicia

Make sure she's ok

>>4181153
>Inventory
-2 flintlocks
-2 cans of meat
-Using 1 more meat can, ask someone to cook up as many potatoes as they can with it. However, do not fry more than 3 of them, we can attempt to use an instant harvest potion after trying to make a garden with the remainder. And bring the freshly fried potatoes as long.
-Sugar bag
-Cleaver
-Accuracy artifact
>>Do you want someone to come with you? (Mario, Amicia)
>Amicia
Ensure that Amicia wraps her face in more cloth, even if it takes multiple masks worth of cloth to do it. To disguise her identity and gender. The situation is deteriorating outside, and fast. We don't need to have her harassed by someone. Looks like she needs some fresh air, and we could use her help. We can also use this as an another opportunity to speak with her about Hugo, or what might be on her mind. She seems close to her breaking point, unfortunately. We should try to help with that.

Maybe send Mario to the stones refinery as well. We'll need the food after today's trading, and it seems like his withdrawl symptoms have diminished, so his hands should be a lot more stable, and able to handle the precise work necessary for the job.

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>>4181158
>>4181179
You take 3 cans of meat, preserving the last to fry one potato right under the eyes of the grumpy Gnome. Nobody likes cold fries anyway, so you will take an Iceburst Stone as well and finally your bag of sugar.

To defend yourself, or intimidate aggressor, you take all the guns and your cleaver with the artefact. After carefully putting two masks Amicia and one on yourself.

-3 masks used

As Valentina guessed it's quite cold outside, it should be hard on your companions but you will be fine all day with that wool tunic. But only if the temperature does not drop and that is something you are far from certain.

"So, uh... Amicia. You had it rough, right?" you try
"..."
"I understood that you didn't tell the truth to Hugo."
"..."
"You can't tell him what happened, but you can tell me... About what is going on in this big head of yours."
"...'kay..." she whispers softly

The fog is so thick you need to hold Amicia's hand, giving her a false sense of security. You can't see more than five feet in front of you, so maybe the Elves will ignore your pistols.

"You gave me the disease, whore!" an angry voice explodes before a loud slapping sound
"No, please!"
"If only there were still Demihumans brothel. You will pay for this."
"At least not the face, not the face!"

Amicia grip tightens as you enter the Redlight District. You stumble on something on the ground, ignoring the minor obstacle. But the second after, you turn with horror to Amicia who also stumble on it too. A corpse. You pull her away before she can realize what happened.

>ignore the call for help
>head where the voice come from

>>4181222
>>head where the voice come from
Turning a blind eye to this will not help Amicia's psyche. Or ours for that matter. Lets try and help out.

>>4181222
>head where the voice come from

it's raph

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>>4181231
>>4181237
Dashing through the mist you discover a couple fighting. Far from a simple husband and wife quarrel. The man has a knife in his hand and the woman, a Human, is desperately holding her aggressor wrist as the blade slowly carve a wound on her face. You recognize the man who tried to rob you, it's the leader of the thugs who tried to rob you.

>threaten him with your empty gun hoping he will take you seriously (Social)
>attack him with your cleaver (Physical)
>call for help

>>4181254
>>attack him with your cleaver (Physical)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PGqB6JIUzBo
That gun trick isn't going to work again. He essentially swore vengeance on us, and now we've got the drop on him. It's time. Lets not try reasoning with someone brutally carving a woman's face up. It's time.

>>4181254
>attack him with your cleaver (Physical)

At least make it nonlethal though

>>4181279
>>4181290
roll 1d100, must be under 75 (70 +5 thanks to cleaver)
why do I even make you roll?

Rolled 36 (1d100)

>>4181295
So you get to rejoice after I hit another crit fail?

Rolled 3 (1d100)

>>4181295
We may be doing well now but we failed a lot of rolls in the beginning

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>>4181296
>>4181301
>rolled 3, crit

"It's you! Andare a puttane!" he barks tossing the woman on the pavement.
"That exactly why I'm here and I just find one." you throw as a witty come back

The thug plays with his knife circling around you while you shield Amicia. He noticed your pistols and gets a little nervous. But that inattention proved to be fatal, you make your cleaver fall on his collarbone, his finger stiffen letting fo the knife.

"Che cazzo!" he grumbles falling on his knees "How could this have happened to me?"
"Watch your language, there are children here." you heroically throw.

The despicable man will bleed out in a few seconds. It's not as gruesome as someone getting his skull cracked open or vomiting blood. With his opposite hand trying to contain the haemorrhage, it's as if he just broke his collarbone. He falls unconscious far from Amicia's eyes.

"Thank you, thank you, thank you." the woman desperately repeats "I thought *cough* *cough* he was going to kill me."
"I'm just doing the right thing signora."
"I should *cough* *cough* go now, I don't want to contaminate you."

+1 flick knife

You did the right thing by stopping this thug, right? What was his problem anyway? He wanted to punish a prostitute who continued to work while infected? Wanted to avenge his comrade he thought you drowned in the canal? Nothing to worry a hero like you, anyway.

After a few steps in the direction of the Exotic Brothel where Raphaella awaits, the teenage girl suddenly stops pulling on your hand. You brain goes on override like a Dwarve steam engine. Did you make anything wrong? You hide that from her, right?

"If only..." she starts "If only you were there when..." the tears runs for the first time on a painful expression.

Too long she has been holding back those feeling. She clings to your costume, a torrent of remorse coming out of her mouth. About what she should have done, about all the wrong thought she had. In the end, she is just a child who lost her parents to a groupe of zealots and watched her last familly member agonized all alone. Her knees are failing her, getting all of that out of her took a lot of energy but the brothel is just in front of you.