>>4295894
> “So long as you do your job well and she hers, then very well.”
We can use this opportunity to gather info on this land.

>>4295894
> “It’s still rather soon. Are you truly serious about this relationship lasting?”
This was either extremely irresponsible of him or he's playing us.

>>4295937
He was supposed to turn our specialists into experts, instead he's trying to recruit our only magic teacher. We have only 3 scholars in our settlement, they are irreplaceable. Even if their feelings are true, if Phini leaves then the pinkies would learn the secrets of our Dancers while there won't be anyone around to teach us our own people's magic.

>>4295928
Changing to
> “I’m afraid I must ask you to please consider breaking it off. She’s sorely needed to focus here.”
>>4295948 is right, we only have 3 scholars with us.

>>4295937
>>4295894
Adding this to my vote
> “I’m afraid I must ask you to please consider breaking it off. She’s sorely needed to focus here.”

Suppose I'm writing.

>>4295894
>>4295956
>>4295972
Hm. You don’t like this. While it seems sincere on his end, that could bring just as much trouble as if he was trying to just toy with her. She could be taken in by his charm and forget her duties just that much more- or Levi could forget just what he’s doing here. He’s been fine regarding the teaching of the students; as far as you can tell, they’ve been progressing nicely, and while they wouldn’t be fully fledged Dancers until they came of age, their training and ability has progressed by leaps and bounds to the point you wouldn’t be wholly resistant to the idea of putting some of the better students in guards alongside the warriors. But if that were to falter...well, it’d be a disaster for you.

...you don’t really like doing this. You sincerely don’t.

But it’s for the security of the colony, even if it might break a heart or two. “I’m afraid I must ask you to please consider breaking it off.” He immediately starts to open his mouth before you continue. “She’s sorely needed to focus here. Her dalliance with you, if it’s serious, poses a...concern, regarding her continued capacity to perform the myriad of duties she’s assigned. While I cannot say I have any personal quarrel with your companionship, I’m afraid I must keep the needs of my people ahead of my own considerations, especially when we are in such a perilous state of being at the moment.”

There’s a tense silence as his lips thin, processing it. “I...understand...your concern,” he pushes past his lips, though it pains him to do so.

>Roll 1d100+20, best of three.

>>4296104
That's supposed to be a +10.

1d100+10.

Rolled 65 + 10 (1d100 + 10)

>>4296104

Rolled 2 + 10 (1d100 + 10)

>>4296104

Rolled 92 + 10 (1d100 + 10)

>>4296104
Here goes.

>>4296136
Anon, you just brought shame to your famry.

Well. Nipped that whole star-crossed romance in the bud.
Right?

Write.

>>4296207
It's sad but yeah we can't afford to lose her at this time.

>>4296207
You ain't foolin me they're gonna be in the barn by next week playing find the orifice in the haystack.

>>4296104
>>4296124
>>4296136
>>4296148
He’s not happy, you can tell that. But, he sighs, and slowly the tenseness of his facial features bleed off into something far more resigned. Good- he sees reason. Hopefully, she’ll only be depressed about it for a few days or a week or so and get back to normal, and he can depart with no major hangups as his time comes to an end- three months, as agreed upon. You’ll have your Earthcrafters back, and they won’t be able to communicate much more. Unless something severe were to occur, you suppose.

The next few days are...well, you don’t hear anything from them, but it’s noticeably quiet around the ‘school area’, or at least far less enthusiastic.

You busy yourself with worrying about how the efforts with the megapedes are being handled, deciding to send a full complement for best results. You have faith that with their new armor and gear, they’ll emerge victorious…

...and they do! They report a large nest of the creatures being not too far away from where the first dead one was spotted; they were quick to charge and slaughter the lot of them, sustaining light scratches at worst thanks to the armor- they shouldn’t even leave scars! Indeed, as your warriors come back, arms laden with megapede bodies, they are hailed with cheers- and you’re all too willing to order a group of Rinim to aid collect what’s left of both the bodies and the mushrooms that grow down there; they’ll be experimented with and hopefully can be used either for straight consumption, or possibly some sort of tonic or tincture. The bodies will be well used for meat, armor, and other construction material, ideally.

Indeed, as the month closes out, your settlement seems well to do at the moment; the people are well fed, housed, and with trade happening, there is a bit more to do than plain self-sufficiency, which interestingly you note has a bit of a galvanizing effect- less slacking during the day.

The children, well-trained by now even noting the ‘boringness’ that’s creeped up in lessons, have evolved a style that you can only call a performance- blending hairless (human, gotta get used to that) straightforwardness and verbage with Rinim traditional Dancer techniques makes for something you can only call art. The night before Levi is to leave, two of the top students, twins named Juri and Juli both showcase this one evening for the settlement (or rather just outside of it) in a wondrous display of fire and waterdancing that proves incredibly alluring, and one that Levi admits would likely play well amongst human audiences. Phini simply sighs, and you’d be blind to not notice her eyes welling with tears.

You do your best to ignore it.

(cont.)

>>4296434
The morrow comes, and with it, the return of your Earthcrafters, who claim to have learned a great deal in a short time- though they also note that apparently humans are more gears towards sturdiness and defense than intricate crafting- to them, apparently, their works ‘are good and strong and clever, but no style.’ Regardless, they HAVE learned some molding techniques that they say can improve construction quality, and are interested in putting it to use in something they call a ‘smokestack’ in order to have a place to heat the outer village during the cold months.

Levi is sent off with well wishes- and a last hug from Phini that you’re not sure how to interpret.

Trade continues, and life goes on in Rodinash...at least, you think that as you receive the month’s trade, but it’s then you hear something you didn’t expect from the trademaster:

“So, you kin to those black furred rats we found on the southwest o’ the kingdom?”

THAT causes some shock. When asked for details, he just shrugs. “Dunno much. ‘Parently some ratfolk what resemble your lot showed up ‘bout a month ago, deep in the swamps. Came in offa boat, folks say they says. Dunno much else, though.”

...Survivors? How?!

>Year 2, Month 3 (Tasma Village of Rodinash)
>Leader: Tasma, Breeze of the Summer
>Population Total: 84 Rinim

>Farmers: 10
>Ranchrats: 2
>Woodcrafters: 8 (2 Expert)
>Metalcrafters: 2
>Earthcrafters: 6
>Miners: 8
>Warriors: 10
>Scout Recruits: 3
>Scholars: 3
>Clothweavers: 4
>Nobles: 3
>Elders: 2
>Apothecary: 1
>Fisherrat: 1
>Firedancers: 3
>Waterdancers: 3
>Airdancers: 2
>Earthdancers: 2
>Infants: 9

Resources:
>Food: 70
>Wood: 10
>Stone: 45
>Iron Ore: 5
>Fabric: 70

>Morale: High

>Available Tools: Axe, Pick, Shovel, Farming Tools, Crafting Tools.
>Available Weapons: Axe, Bow, Spear, Sling
>Mounts: Horse, Mule

>Travel/Scout (The further you travel from your settlement, the longer it will take.)
>Hunting and Gathering Food (Forest Area or Mountainside?)
>Mine For Ore
>Request Trade
>Construct a Major Building
>Visit the Temple of the Shrouded Eye.
>Attempt Research
>Crafting (What?)
>Other

(done for tonight, I literally woke up from sleeping and finished this, so I'm going back to bed)

>>4296435
>(done for tonight, I literally woke up from sleeping and finished this, so I'm going back to bed)
That's some dedication! Glad to see this continue, thank you for your content!

>>4296435
Let's go meet these other whoever they are.

>>4296435
>Travel/Scout (find the 'survivors') - should be done faster now that we can ride mules
>Mine For Ore - low on stock
>Attempt Research (Hydraulics) - plumbing, pumps and pistons and stuff. would help with bathhouses anon mentioned last thread + emergency reservoirs

>>4296435
>Travel/Scout (Find the Swamp Rinim)
>Mine For Ore
>Gather Wood

>>4296435
Aren't the two new experts supposed to be earthcrafters? Also what were the new warrior weapons called?

>>4297039
They are. Miswrote.

Right. Also 'Crowners' which are basically Maces.

Also, running shortly.

>>4296458
Supporting.

>>4296458
Support if for no other reason than the idea of developing roman style heated baths

>>4296435
>>4296456
>>4296458
>>4297446
>>4297556
A few things need doing, you’re aware. Mining needs to resume, as you’re low on iron ore. With the mushroom caverns available now, you can spread the mines further than before in the hopes that you’ll gain good yields.

Furthermore, there’s the matter of waste. While traditional methods are working...alright, you’re aware that there’s likely a way to improve the whole situation and keep things from getting TOO...barbaric. Mind, you’re not sure entirely HOW, but after some talks with your scholars, they agree that water is likely the key- you use it for bathing already, surely there’s something that can be done to make that more...consistent, instead of going to the lake all the time or carting the water back here with buckets for use in bathtubs. You request your scholars to get on the subject, and they’re in agreement.

Even then, that’s not the major thing taking up your mental space. No, that is something else.

There’s no question. You NEED to make contact with these other Rinim. Who knows what they’ve been through, and what they may be able to help you with- or you help them, even. It doesn’t matter, it’s more Rinim that survived! That said, you’re uncertain just how far it’ll be to travel there, even with your new mounts, and with just a general area, you suspect that such a sojourn will take weeks, if not the whole month. While there are things to be done here, you have to ask yourself something quite important before anything else:

Will you be going on the trip to meet these ‘swamp Rinim’, or leave it to others? Either way, you should be preparing a party to travel with, then...it can’t be too big, but nor do you want to appear too weak...likely you’ll need a few of your better rats to come as well.

>Go yourself.
>Stay here.

>Choose who will travel: (2-7)
>Elder Ranger Ormin
>Scholar Pellin
>Scholar Phini
>Scholar Pagen
>Elder Juno
>Noblelady Bempi
>Noblefellow Rorstin- a quiet fellow usually, but good with speaking when necessary and confident in his own capability.
>Noblefellow Hatti- a former rival merchant who you’re not on the best terms with, but you have to admit his intimidating countenance and wiles make him someone to not be underestimated.
>Warrior Takkun- Was at the meeting with the Prince, and tends to be the most wary of dealing with outsiders. He was one of the first Warriors you really talked to.
>Warrior Lops- Night Watcher for the Settlement, he can come across as lazy during the day, but at night he’s all business- apart from his grim jokes.

>>4297593
>Go yourself.
>Elder Ranger Ormin
>Scholar Pagen
>Noblefellow Hatti
>Warrior Takkun
A well-rounded party imo

>>4297593
>Stay here.
The community needs continuity of leadership
>Elder Ranger Ormin
Pathfinder is an important part of any expedition
>Scholar Pagen
For recording and advice
>Noblefellow Hatti
We know him to be competent and trader background should help with diplomacy, plus it shows that we value and respect his abilities which should hopefully help improve relations
>Warrior Takkun
Muscle plus sometimes it's good to have a touch of paranoia, just so long as it doesn't get out of paw

>>4297593
Supporting >>4297657

>>4297657
Supporting. Not gonna leave things to chance on our own home.

I am exceedingly livid right now. I don't think running would end well since I'm in an angry state of mind.

But I can answer questions about setting if you have any, I suppose. Preferably stuff that the Rinim would logically 'know' already, perhaps. Really, I don't feel right with how little posting I've done lately.

FUCK THE CIV CURSE I'LL BEAT IT EVENTUALLY

>>4298763
Do Rinim have a religion? Usually your characters pray or swear by gods or other powers and concepts from time to time, yet these rats have shown almost none of that.
What was the climate and landscape of the old Rinim lands like? Vast arid prairies with a small coastal area?
What have the earthcrafters learned about the human kingdom?

>>4298826
There WAS religion, but the whole Redjaw thing made non-believers out of a lot of Rinim the longer things went on, convinced that if there WERE gods out there, they'd abandoned them, and some others that, well... Gimme a minute and I'll explain.

There were three major gods.

1:The Highmother; often portrayed as a large, somewhat rotund, matronly ratlady, who's focus was life, growth and fertility- kind of like Demeter in classic Grecian mythology, only her focus was both for plants and grain as well as pregnancy and childbirth. Anything that basically had to be 'born' was under her dominion, and she was prayed to for health and good harvest. It was said she first created the Rinim, and then created the Sun to better see her living creations. She is considered both nature and nurture, not good, not wicked, but valuing Rinim life and the sanctity thereof as paramount.

2: Dreygar, the Essence. It's often shown as a whispy, intangible Rinim figure, and is the major deity of romance, intelligence and cleverness. Responsible for ingenuity, inventiveness, basically anything to do with the mind that wasn't just instinct. Anything with a particular gift for numbers or an excellent craftsrat, is said to be 'kissed by Dreygar', and a Rinim that's known as a ladykiller is said to be 'a son of Dreygar'. The 'romance' in his portfoilo is because of lore that says as one of the earliest Rinim, he tried to woo the Highmother when he was a mortal- she rejected his advances, but appreciated the effort and admitted it'd probably have worked on anyone else, and so gave him the title and godhood.

3: The Tattered Rat; who was the opposite of the Highmother; he presided over death, decay, and general ill luck. He's often portrayed in tatted robes, hence his name, and he's got splotches of missing muscle and fur here and there- essentially like a rotted zombie. He's actually not a wicked figure in Rinim lore, however. His responsibility is to take the souls of the dead and then decide what to do with them- good souls are offered up to the Highmother for reincarnation. Souls of a particularly bloody, crass, and generally troublemaking nature are said to spend eons being 'cleansed', said to be awful, and then the Tattered Rat may do with them as he wishes- either give them up to the Highmother, or eat them, or heck, use them for decoration if he wants. He's said to have a morbid sense of humor and often tries to make the souls he takes to laugh before he takes them to his demesne. He's largely disliked just because, well...no one wants to die.

------

The climate and landscape of the old Rinim lands were largely plains, with very tall grass, and while there were trees, no dense forests, except in some spots. Primarily, the weather was warm, dry summers and chilly, dry winters, with snow very rare- however, areas to the west and north were particularly hot and arid and filled with plateaus and mountains that were horrid to travel to.

(cont.)

>>4298826
The Earthcrafters stated that apparently the humans have a pantheon of gods, more diverse than the Rinim. They heard several names invoked; though they aren't exactly certain for what. Lethos, Aina, Graduro, are the ones they remember.

There's a number of races living in Helias, apparently. 'Humans', 'Elves', and 'Dwarves' are the ones they saw the most, they think. They all look the same to them, just shorter, or taller, or with slightly sharper ears. The dwarves seemed to have slightly more hair, at least. They saw one horned creature there as well that you assume is one of those 'Horgoth' people, but it was only twice in passing, and he didn't seem to notice them at all either time. There are apparently other races, either there or elsewhere in the world, but they saw none of them.

The kingdom is very large, much bigger than anywhere they've been before. They say it was very crowded and had a lot of food, although much of it was kinds of meats, which they didn't really like a lot.

They have a King and Queen, and the royal family you know already. There's also nobles, similar to Rinim city culture.

>>4298763
What sorts of crops do Rinim usually grow?

>>4298763
Do Rinim keep pets?

>>4299275
Vegetables, though meat is not unknown to them. The relationship of meat and vegetables is basically inverted as opposed to humans- vegetables/greens/grains/pastas are the primary dishes, with meat stuff as flavoring and side dishes. Carrots, potatoes, lettuce, cabbage, tomatoes, radishes, that kinda stuff.

>>4299811
Not really for leisure, but it's not unheard of to have creatures for tasks like hunting rare herbs or keeping grass short.

>>4298763
What are Rinim musical traditions like? I imagine their mouths would be ill suited to moat wind instruments

Heard about your new comp Handler. Oof the Civ curse is real.

>>4300202
Quite. Drums and strings mostly, though there is a long pipe instrument kind of like a smaller didgeridoo mixed with a clarinet. Bands and group play are done most often, with solo musicians being more of a stigma of 'you're not sociable enough to get with a group'. Some owned it to make an air of mystique. Others don't.

And I'm writing tonight. At least a couple of entries.

>>4297593
>>4297605
>>4297657
>>4297670
>>4297964
It takes some thinking, but you decide on Elder Ranger Ormin, Scholar Pagen, Noblefellow Hatti, and Warrior Takkun to form the core of your collective. That rounds things out nicely, and allows them to respond in a variety of ways to whatever the Rinim in the swamp may have to say or act.

You’ve also decided that it’d be best to remain behind, all in all- the settlement is yet young, and still in need of direct leadership. No reason to risk any sort of power struggle or breakdown of things so soon in the settlement’s life. It’s a shame- you’d wanted to see them yourself, but after weighing your concerns...well, with yourself, mostly...you’d decided that as much as you disliked it, it was the better call.

The remainder of the party is mostly soldiers and a couple of Ormin’s scouts. With well wishes, plenty of supplies, and a copied map, they set off; the mounts of mules proving their worth already as their placid demeanor and steady gait means they can ride without worry for quite some time.

In the meantime, you order new mining efforts as desired, wanting to capitalize on your newly available lands. It’ll take a bit to shift your efforts, but shift it will.

As for the waste issue...the scholars have a couple of ideas, at least. They'll take a bit to work out, however.

>Roll 3d20, best of three.

One day, as this is all progressing, however, you get some news- via another visitor, this one far more familiar.

"Orville?" you note in surprise as you're told of the visitor's identity. He seems...well, concerned, serious.

"Hello! I heard word that you're trading with Helias now. That- that's good, honestly. Especially due to recent events."

"Recent events?" That doesn't sound good...

"Aye. There's been rumblings of ill magics from the north- a blighted area, dead and only fit for graves. At least, normally. Rumors are going about that something is stirring, though. Something foul. Best be on your guard, and make yourself important enough to have Helias consider defending you- that, or perhaps look into hiring your own private guard. I understand you've little to nothing in the way of military, but mercenaries only care about the size of your coinpurse."

Not that you HAVE money, but you're not going to tell him that right now...

(Ugh, only the one.)

That is...less than pleasing.

(Mistyped slightly. This is all for tonight.)

Rolled 17, 20, 18 = 55 (3d20)

>>4301116

Rolled 19, 9, 9 = 37 (3d20)

>>4301116

Rolled 9, 11, 12 = 32 (3d20)

>>4301116

>>4301121
Dayum I think we just invented indoor plumbing and flush toilets

>>4301181
>tfw three seashells

...It wasn't the power supply, it was the motherboard.

I'm so mad I've gone clear around the horn to semi-calm acceptance and am just looking into returns and whatnot.

I'm gonna ignore what I said before and run out of...well, it's not spite, but something in that area.

>>4301945
That sounds incredibly frustrating you have my sympathies

>>4298763
When we built the workshops, spinning wheels were requested. Does that mean we're already growing fiber plants on our farms?

>>4301121
>>4301153
>>4301154

You thank him for his suggestions as you consider your possibilities...but if you’re going to do anything, you’ll need to have supplies. Iron is, you’re near positive, a good bet. Hence, the rest of the month is largely consisting of mining efforts, and indeed, your efforts overall are greatly rewarded! To your excitement, one of the miners reports that they’ve located not only a large iron ore deposit, but they’ve also discovered some unknown gems when one of them digs a bit deeper in what turned out to be a happy accident; the miner’s a bit scuffed up, but the gems are a rich blue in coloration, and after some initial experimentation by your scholars, seem to be fairly hard- they don’t scratch easily, but their actual toughness is only a bit above average- it takes some work with direct, heavy hammer blows to crack one, but crack it they do. Curiously, it seems like it sparks a bit on impact, and it does crack, your scholars report a sudden intense heat emanating from the gem that quickly fades. They also seem to retain heat well otherwise , as when heated up, there were no deformities, but they were still burning to the touch hours later. There were gems in your old home, of course, but nothing that looks or acts quite like this. Still, more study is needed.

>Discovered Blueheat Gems! (Name pending…)

Speaking of- there is some idea for the waste drainage system as well as general pump systems. They’ll need a waterwheel for it, however- or otherwise some way to get water to flow uphill and then down. They have a few ideas- but it’ll take more than a few months to do- and will require the help of your young Earthdancers, they claim. The idea is to, essentially, force the water from the mountain area to your west, near where the farm is. You can use that as a supply that runs to your settlement, with careful digging, and deposit it all...somewhere. Not the lake, obviously, but somewhere. They’re still working on that. Still, the idea would also allow something normally reserved for nobles- private restrooms! However, it will require some work otherwise.

(cont.)

>>4303121
The month otherwise passes blessedly quietly, and the days get a bit warmer and more pleasant, though you DO worry about Orville’s words. You aren’t sure how bad or good the situation is getting- and that perhaps means you need more eyes and ears where news is. But how to do that?

>Year 2, Month 4 (Tasma Village of Rodinash)
>Leader: Tasma, Breeze of the Summer
>Population Total: 84 Rinim

>Farmers: 10
>Ranchrats: 2
>Woodcrafters: 8 (2 Expert)
>Metalcrafters: 2
>Earthcrafters: 6
>Miners: 8
>Warriors: 10
>Scout Recruits: 3
>Scholars: 3
>Clothweavers: 4
>Nobles: 3
>Elders: 2
>Apothecary: 1
>Fisherrat: 1
>Firedancers: 3
>Waterdancers: 3
>Airdancers: 2
>Earthdancers: 2
>Infants: 9

Resources:
>Food: 80
>Wood: 10
>Stone: 55
>Iron Ore: 65
>Fabric: 50

>Morale: Moderate

>Available Tools: Axe, Pick, Shovel, Farming Tools, Crafting Tools.
>Available Weapons: Axe, Bow, Spear, Sling
>Mounts: Horse, Mule

Pick three:
>Travel/Scout (The further you travel from your settlement, the longer it will take.)
>Hunting and Gathering Food (Forest Area or Mountainside?)
>Mine For Ore/Gems
>Request Trade
>Construct a Major Building
>Visit the Temple of the Shrouded Eye.
>Visit Helias
>Attempt Research.
>Crafting (What?)
>Other

>>4303125
>Research (Blueheat Gems) - https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Stirling_engine we magic-punk now
>Gather Wood
>Renegotiate the Trade Deal - need gold
We're out of wood to trade and amount of fabric's been constantly decreasing despite hunting before the festival and trading sheep. No idea if we're growing fiber plants or not too.>>4302757

>>4303161
I'm accounting for daily life needs. Can't write out literally everything, so.

>>4302757
>>4303161
Also just flax, but not exactly tons of it.

>>4303125
>Research (Blueheat Gems)
>Gather Wood
>Request Trade
Maybe we can trade some of our services for gold

>>4303125
>Research (Blueheat Gems)
>Gather Wood
>TRADE, our specialty.

>>4303125
Well, these gems may be useful in the future. You’re not sure how, but their heat retention should prove useful for warmth in the winter months if absolutely nothing else. If there’s anything else, you’ll figure it out one way or another. Pagen’s away on trading business, so it’s up to the others- though you can say you trust them just as well. Heck, might give Phini some distraction from her despondency as it has been so far. Though maybe with better frequency...

Aside from that, you’re horribly low on wood- so you have your people focus on that as well. They’re starting to have to move out further to cut down, however- they mention that if they don’t want to clearcut the areas (tiles) around your base, they’ll have to expand their operations further out. If you did, it’d certainly give you more land for cultivation, but it’s not as though you need it (for now), and the ecosystem may be affected in other ways…

>Limited Cutting, spaced out. (Gain Up to 20 Wood, risk dangers)
>Clear Cutting (Gain Up to 50 Wood, tiles will deplete next time they are utilized.)

That said, there is something else you need to consider- trade. With Orville’s words still in your head, you’ve come to the decision that you’re going to need to expand your trade deal with Helias, this time for currency. The question, though, is what to offer?

>Roll 2d20, best of three.

>Trade Iron
>Trade Goods (what?)
>Trade Gems

>Other

Rolled 19, 10 = 29 (2d20)

>>4305706
>Limited Cutting, spaced out. - haven't learned what else grows in these woods yet
>Trade: offer to process their raw materials into high-quality goods that the Kingdom usually sells to Elves, Dwarves and other countries. That way Helias could improve their relations instead of trying to replace them, and we get our cut from their profits.
By the way, those 2 Experts are still listed as Woodcrafters

Rolled 18, 1 = 19 (2d20)

>>4305706
>>4305827
Supporting.

Rolled 1, 17 = 18 (2d20)

>>4305706
Supporting >>4305827

It's my birthday so I'm not running today. I will tomorrow evening, however.

>>4308293
https://youtu.be/vdVnnMOTe3Q

>>4308306
You know what's really funny? I'm eating cheesecake right now.

It's good.

>>4305706
>>4305827
>>4305830
>>4305850
The decision is made to space out the cutting of lumber- you’ll make sure to regulate it a bit as well. You’ll need time for your replanting to bear fruit, after all. Well, not literally, but they’ll still have time to grow. You’ll still get a good harvest of the stuff, you anticipate…

And indeed you do. There’s less overall than you’d have otherwise, but there’s no problems, and the beasts of the forests steer clear of you, thank goodness.

(Gained 20 Wood)

As for the matter of trade...you have a message sent to Helias on your behalf- it’s a use of precious parchment, but it’s worth it. In it states your desire to craft another trade deal, and an offer of labor- that your workers could assist in crafting goods at the usual Rinim-quality standards that would be sold to the other races. While it may seem a bit lopsided at first glance, you’d been careful to notice that this would be a work agreement, one paid for services rendered properly. With the crafting ability of your people, your goods would bolster relations with both Helias, Helias’ relations with the other races, and possibly your own relations with said races using Helias as the intermediary.

Fortunately, the response is clearly interested- but to your shock, they request an audience of you. In Helias. Before the King and Queen. Apparently, they’re interested in the race that their son has been dealing with. That would be...well, less of a trip than what you’ve sent the others on. A few days’ ride at worst, back and forth, you estimate. But it’s still leaving for some time, nearly defenseless and leaderless. You could send an emissary, which would take some of the time pressure off. Although, it might be considered rude to send an emissary after what’s a clearly glowing and interested letter. Perhaps you can ask their understanding…though if their patience is short, that could be the end of this discussion there, too.

>Take a chance with a letter explaining the situation and requesting another meeting at the Tower.
>Agree to go. You’ll be quick as possible, and ideally be back before anything goes wrong.
>Send an emissary in your place. Hopefully they won’t take too much offense…
>Other

>>4309384
>>Agree to go. You’ll be quick as possible, and ideally be back before anything goes wrong.
Oh man, the only noble who could've been a good emissary was sent off. Well, we have Diplomacy bonus and if shit gets fuck then there's wind magic.

>>4309384
>Agree to go. You’ll be quick as possible, and ideally be back before anything goes wrong.
We got this.

>>4309384
>Agree to go. You’ll be quick as possible, and ideally be back before anything goes wrong.

Writing.

>>4309384
>>4309388
>>4309389
>>4309394
Well...in this case, nothing for it. You’ll have to go yourself. The response is written with your estimated time of arrival, and that’s that. You don’t like the idea of leaving Rodinash without secure leadership, so you name Elder Juno temporary leader. He’s got the most experience with it all, and he’s not so devoted to the nobles that he’ll bend or change much for them in such a short period of time.

You’ve...never ridden a mule before. But if it’s said to be easy, then…!

...it takes an entire day to just keep yourself straight on the damn thing! And your rear is sore by the end of it. But...it IS faster, that you can’t deny. The thing is downright placid, and shows no aggravation even when you nearly topple off of it. You’re loathe to bring more warriors, however, and thus resign yourself to bringing only two individuals; a scout for protection, and Scholar-

“Wait! Wait!” Oh. No. “Take me along with you!” Phini. Of course she’d ask. And here you’d thought she’d been over her little flight of fancy… “Now I know what you’re thinking, and I’ll concede it’s not entirely off the mark. HOWEVER! They’ll want someone who knows what they’re talking about- and considering my, er...connections...even you must agree that my presence could be useful!”

...drat. Well, she’s not entirely incorrect, but- “I swear, I’d just like a bit of a visit with him, that’s all! Nothing more. We- our duties ARE a bit too much, and to tell the truth I AM most certainly curious to see our research bear fruit, but...surely to see him and say hello cannot be too wrong?”

...her suggestion DOES carry a bit of merit, you’ll concede. She could be the key to getting you a better deal, if her influence with the human Levi is as great as she claims...then again, it COULD just lead to trouble.

>Permit her to come with you. But she’ll behave carefully or else.
>No. You’re bringing Scholar Pellin, and that is all on the matter.

>Roll 1d20, best of three.

Rolled 1 (1d20)

>>4309438
>Permit her to come with you. But she’ll behave carefully or else.

might aswell bring her so she dosent cause any trouble back home

>>4309443
fuck

Rolled 14 (1d20)

>>4309438

Rolled 20 (1d20)

>>4309438
>Permit her to come with you. But she’ll behave carefully or else.

>>4309438
>Permit her to come with you. But she’ll behave carefully or else.

Fine. She comes. Writing.

>>4309443
>>4309446
The dice taketh but boy are they quick to giveth right back.

File: Helias.jpg (155 KB, 800x450)

155 KB JPG

>>4309438
>gree
>>4309443
>>4309445
>>4309446
You sigh. “Fine. But you WILL behave with the utmost caution.” you warn.

“Of course!” she agrees easily.

Right. Well. Deal, then. You REALLY hope she’s willing to hold herself back…

And after seemingly no time at all, you’re off to the capital. It’s a pleasantly simple trip, thank goodness- the sun is out all the days, and it seems that even the mules are energized by it. In a couple of short days, passing by a truly massive amount of farmland that has you realizing the enormity of their farming capabilities, you arrive at the city walls without any trouble at all!

And...well...you have to restrain a gulp, as you see the size of it. It’s...IMMENSE. Beyond what you expected, it’s over twice or thrice as massive as any Rinim village or city you’ve ever seen! You can see houses beyond the walls just barely, and the number of beings going to and fro along the roads...you’re sure that this number of casual civilians would easily outpace your village by themselves. There were many Rinim. MANY. But how many humans are here? What kingdom is this, that can contain so much? That your Earthcrafters have visited, and neglected to tell you of its size?

...my, you have your work cut out for you.

(cont.)

>>4309526
whoop, sorry. that text at the top was just text I forgot to delete.

As you head forth, head held high after a brief look towards your compatriots, you find yourself the recipient of quite a number of curious stares from passerby or idlers outside. Nothing hostile, but clearly baffled. It’s not until your ‘party’ arrives at the gate itself, situated behind a number of individuals clearly wanting entry. They seem to have...something in their hands. However, before you can pluck up the courage to ask, you’re at the front of the line, and the human soldiers are quick to cross spears. “What in blazes…?” one asks. “What be you?! Scouts miss something in the big backyard there?”

“Oy, does it matter?” the other complains. “Least they stood in line an’ didn’t raise a fuss- already score points in my book.” The human, a bit larger and oddly flabby in the face, looks you all over. “Understand me well ‘nough?”

“Yes, we do,” you respond cooly. “Your are greeted by Tasma, leader of Rodinash Settlement. I have come by invite of your King and Queen,” you mention, presenting the letter to them. They’re quick to take it and peruse it carefully, the hair on their heads rising as they finish it.

“Pft...ain’t this somethin’, yeah? Gotta check it, first, though,” the first speaker informs you, before turning to his fellow guard. “Oy, Biggs? Get this ‘ere looked at, yeah? Mebbe talk to th’ captain, see if ‘is Higness is expectin’ any rattish folk any time soon. Gotta imagin’ they’d make a note fer somethin’ like this, huh?”

(cont 2.)

>>4309527
“S’pose so,” he says in a dour voice as he takes the parchment, looking back to you. “Keep on th’ outside over thar,” he points towards a small area where it seems a number of humans and...not humans? Are sitting or standing around, presumably for similar reasons. “We’ll find ya if this is on the up an’ up.” With that, he trundles off. “I’ll get Barnahm ta come help ya while I’m off and about,” he says by way of parting.

This is...unfortunate, already. The number of individuals don’t seem particularly dangerous, but...not like you would know. As you and your carefully walk over, you notice:

>A pair of brown haired humans that are playing some sort of game with small cubes. They seem young, small, and one male, one female, you’d guess. They’re dressed in odd, poofy clothes, however, and the older ones are looking on in amusement. They’d paused it to stare at you, and are quick to start whispering to each other- clearly about you.

>A number of individuals hard to see at this distance; three males, two females. They are armored, although their armor seems...light, more or less, and very haphazard. One female is at least well dressed with a flowing robe. They’re casually talking with each other, though the other one of the females seems curious about you, sketching something on a small ream of parchment, presumably some sort of art or perhaps writing?

>A pair of...you think they’re humans, but exceptionally tall, and their headfur is quite long. There’s a vague sense of oddness about them, but they seem quite calm, with one playing a stringed instrument, and the other shaking something you have no reference for, but it’s a nice jingling sound. One of them notices you, but other than an odd raise of the eyebrow, they don’t seem to acknowledge you. Still, whatever music they play is good- you wouldn’t mind hearing more.

>Other?

>>4309528
>>A number of individuals hard to see at this distance; three males, two females. They are armored, although their armor seems...light, more or less, and very haphazard. One female is at least well dressed with a flowing robe. They’re casually talking with each other, though the other one of the females seems curious about you, sketching something on a small ream of parchment, presumably some sort of art or perhaps writing?
I assume they are adventurers. We might have to deal with their types in the future so why not.

>>4309528
>>A pair of brown haired humans that are playing some sort of game with small cubes. They seem young, small, and one male, one female, you’d guess. They’re dressed in odd, poofy clothes, however, and the older ones are looking on in amusement. They’d paused it to stare at you, and are quick to start whispering to each other- clearly about you.

they seem interested and poofy clothes might mean nobility or atleast merchants

>>4309528
>A number of individuals hard to see at this distance; three males, two females. They are armored, although their armor seems...light, more or less, and very haphazard. One female is at least well dressed with a flowing robe. They’re casually talking with each other, though the other one of the females seems curious about you, sketching something on a small ream of parchment, presumably some sort of art or perhaps writing?

>>4309528
>>A number of individuals hard to see at this distance; three males, two females. They are armored, although their armor seems...light, more or less, and very haphazard. One female is at least well dressed with a flowing robe. They’re casually talking with each other, though the other one of the females seems curious about you, sketching something on a small ream of parchment, presumably some sort of art or perhaps writing?

>>4309528
Everything okay?

>>4313505
Yeah, just exhausting days. I'll be posting tonight, however. Soon, in fact, after I finish eating.

>>4309528
>>4309534
>>4309569
>>4310658
That strange grouping seems...well, not familiar, but you’ve involved yourself in humans that look like that before. What piques your curiosity, however, is the female that’s writing something. You’re not sure why, but you’re fairly certain that it’s about you considering her glances your way. When you meet eyes with her, she doesn’t even flinch, simply sketching faster, as though she expects you to go somewhere.

Well, you’d like to know about this, for sure. And they don’t SEEM hostile…

Getting closer, you can see that they’re all somewhat young, you think. Not as hairy as others that you’ve seen, and not as large, save for one who seems a bit more bulbous than the other males. Their armor is more cloth and flesh than steel, though there are bits and pieces here and there on at least the three males. The young, yet taller female who has decent wardrobe looks upon you in curiosity, and she simply nods her head, as the artist says nothing, but simply continues sketching. She’s got some kind of purple hood on, and seems only a bit taller than you, but her curly hair spills out of her cloak readily- though sadly it still seems to just be focused around her head. “Well, you’re an interesting sight,” the tall female says cheerily. “Then again, Abigail wouldn’t bother drawing if you weren’t. Hello!”

“It’s my mission to catalogue every animal on the planet,” the human named says brusquely before returning to her art.

“Uhh...don’t mind her,” one of the males says. He has blacker hair, and he smiles as he holds out a hand. “Name’s Ryker. This here’s my party, the Silver Wings. Aside from Abigail and me, there’s Elise-” he motions to the tall female, “-Johan,” the golden haired boy next to him, “and Radley,” the bulbous one. “Pleased to meet you.”

You introduce yourself in turn, as well as your compatriots, and inquire as to their purpose here. “Us? We’re trying to get back in after finishing a quest for the payout, is all. Things have been tense ever since it was heard that more undead are coming around. As if we need MORE trouble around here with the war and all...”

>Quest? What kind of quest?
>Undead? Explain, please.
>War? What war is this?
>Do you know much about the city?
>Other

>>4313667
>Quest? What kind of quest?
>Do you know much about the city?
While more details might be nice the Shrouded Eye were nice enough to tell us about the other topics

>>4313667
>Undead? Explain, please.
That's the thing the Temple guy warned us about

>>4313667
>Quest? What kind of quest?

>>4313667
>Quest? What kind of quest?

>>4313667
>>4313676
>>4313725
>>4313734

“Quest?” They were on some sort of mission? “What kind of quest?”

He seems to puff up a bit. “Nothin’ much- just taking out a nest of Blood Eagles. They’d been harassing some folks up north of here. Not a good sign, but not too hard to take out.” Blood Eagles? That sounded scary. “There were a lot of ‘em, but hopefully what we did will help slow any decay. Had to fight off a matriarch, too, which was scary...” his puffery seems to deflate a bit, even as Elise sighs.

“Decay?” you ask? That sounded even WORSE…

“Oh, it’s like…a weird effect that big nests of Blood Eagles cause on their surroundings. Whenever they make a nest, something about them causes their surroundings to decay over time. It’s how they feed- turn it all into sludge. Really gross,” he shudders.

“They were dangerous, but I DID get some interesting data on them,” Abigail mentions. “That and a good sketch makes it worth it, I think.”

“Not to mention the rewards!” Johan interjects. “This one was worth a lot!”

Hm. So they fight for money? “Then you are mercenaries?”

Ryker grimaces. “Uhh...I guess kinda? We’re more like...we do things for money, yeah, but it’s different than mercs. We don’t usually go out to fight other people intentionally or anything...it’s usually beasts or monsters through the guild.”

>Ask more about this ‘guild’.
>Ask about an individual in the party.
>Discuss what you were informed by the Shrouded Eye.
>Other

>>4315152
>Ask more about this ‘guild’.

>>4315152
>Ask more about this ‘guild’.

>>4315152
>Ask more about this ‘guild’.

>>4315152
>Discuss what you were informed by the Shrouded Eye.
>ask more about the Blood Eagles

Handler doesn't drop his quests as far as I know, but the downtime here sure makes it look like this one is dead, the lack of any discussions is quite depressing. Is there really nothing to talk about? Like, what should our military be like once we grow in numbers or should we bother with exploiting the jungle area for cash crops in the near future?

>>4320053
I blame myself, honestly. It's been difficult for me to keep a consistent timeframe (I'm posting this before work) and that probably turned people off. I dislike single posts, but I'll try to get one out today. It's annoying because I DO have a limited timeframe for this quest in terms of how long it's expected to last in-universe, which I was/am about to introduce. I always felt like that was a big fault of many civ quests.

At any rate, if anyone's still willing to follow this, I'll be trying. Naturally, if anyone has any critique aside from what I've said, don't be shy and say so.

>>4320246
I blame the less than enthusiastic discussion because this simply doesn't have enough bite compared to your previous work, at least for me. A number of your players are also from your last quest and I can't realistically expect all of them to be fascinated by your new one. It's not bad, it's just too different.

Hell, I'm responsible for a lot of custom write-ins in MGFH (never missed a run, always voted) and I shamefully admit that I'm mostly playing this because I want to help finish it more quickly so we can get back.

>>4320268
Not enough 'bite'?

>>4320268
>I'm mostly playing this because I want to help finish it more quickly so we can get back.
Same here, to be honest.

>>4320246
I got mostly nitpicks, but I'm autistic about lists - the 'crowners' are not listed as available weapons and the 2 experts are listed as woodcrafters instead of earthcrafters
Oh, and we're three threads in and there's still no archive link in the OP
http://suptg.thisisnotatrueending.com/qstarchive.html?searchall=Rinim
I think, one way of speeding things up and squeezing more time to run is to have you do all the rolls yourself instead of requesting them. Not sure if it's a good idea though.

Well, if I'm being honest, I've had a few ideas for MGFH since starting this. That said, I'm still not in the best position to continue it right now either time-wise or...I guess 'emotionally' isn't the best word for it, but close enough. I want to get back to MGFH, and probably before too much longer- but not right this second. Still building up that 'oh yeah I'm FEELING IT' mood that carried me through a lot of the original missions. It's getting there, but it's not quite there YET.

Basically I'm saying I won't force anyone to play this if you don't really feel it and I'm willing to just call this a failed experiment and move on. There's another ratquest that's running that's honestly just as good anyway IMO. But if I do drop this, that doesn't mean I'll be running MGFH right away. Just means I'll be absent for a while, barring dropping in to say hello here and there over Twitter or something.

Times like this I've considered making a Discord just for the sake of off-run community or absentee times like this, because I like talking about my quest. But the thing carries a particular stigma, so I'm uncertain about it. I'm not the sort that'd ignore the thread for Discord, or keep relevant discussion there, but yeah.

>>4320523
Well, you did say before that there's a chance of hiring certain folks in this quest and I already see who and how could benefit from working for the rattos, so I'll stick around even if there's no guarantee of that happening.

>>4320523
I won't object to the idea of having more ways to communicate with you. So far we can only do that by posting in the threads.

Well. Let's see if this is even worth it. https://discord.gg/BRm7Uh

Also, will try to post today as well. Want to at least get through some of this...

>>4320523
despite being a forever lurker quick with criticism and slow to write anything myself, it's important to pick the content you're comfortable with, it'll definitely shine through.

So I'm fine with waiting for MFGH to pick up again, I'll keep an eye out, my discord is cluttered as is though, so not there.

>>4315152
>>4315169
>>4315186
“What is this ‘guild’ you speak of?” You ask. It sounds like a business of some sort…

“O-oh, you don’t know what a guild is?” He seems surprised. “Well, it’s kinda an organization that helps people in specific careers. Like, we’re part of the Adventurer’s Guild, and they help us by point us towards jobs people need doing, like killing monsters, protecting people, or retrieving objects in dangerous locations. Other stuff, too, for the lower ranks. They help out by getting us cheaper goods and weapons in exchange for a portion of proceeds and fees and junk...I dunno the details, honestly…” he shrugs shyly. “But they’re important for any adventurer and keeps it all organized.”

Odd. “So all adventurers are a part of this ‘guild’? Then I would have to speak with them to have something done by an ‘adventurer’?”

“Not quite,” Elise says gently. “Many adventurers are part of the guild, yes, but many are also freelance for one reason or another. Many don’t want to pay the fees or surrender part of their gains from completing jobs. Or perhaps they don’t want to do the required number of jobs per month. Though that means that they pay higher prices in case of things such as damages to armor or the sort.” Curious. “Why? Are you looking to hire someone?”

“Well, not at the moment, perhaps, but…” you hedge.

“Well, when you do, look us up!” he advertises. You don’t see why not. They seem a reasonable bunch.

>Continue conversation with them (topic?)
>Move to talk with someone else. (who)
>Keep to yourself until called. (Timeskip)

Also I think the old link expired which I forgot was a thing, so.

https://discord.gg/wkg6ejt There, this one should be a bit longer lasting.

File: map1.png (130 KB, 296x416)

130 KB PNG

>>4323280
>Continue conversation with them
>>Discuss what you were informed by the Shrouded Eye.
>>ask more about the Blood Eagles
so the gray tiles are affected by these blood eagles. the map we got from the Temple is outdated, and I guess the place these adventurers went to help was this village - meaning that it has already spread further. we must learn as much as possible about this issue.

>>4323308
Supporting.

>>4323308
+

>>4323308
+

>>4320053
There is no point in discussing and making plans in a civ- you need to make long term plans and meet short term goals with those in mind. Anons are fucking useless at both, all you need is one person who doesn't care about the plan to vote for some dumb short term gain to ruin it. Then you try to get back on track, but you get big arguments about what the long term plan should be and end up getting pulled in a different direction. Next session another vote goes to a short term gain that is diametrically opposed to the long term plan and you repeat. People fight, people leave, and no one has any fun.

You can't 'fix' or force allocate resources for long and medium projects because then you get into fights when resources are earmarked and prevent you from solving a short term issue in the most efficient manner... On the flip side, if you do that then the quest is simply on autopilot and there's no reason to play. QM can avoid it by not throwing curveballs, disasters or otherwise contentious options and at that point you're not playing a game, you're just walking to the finish line.

I've tried to play too many civs seriously but this always, always happens so I won't. I'll vote for what's happening and hope the qm doesn't give us options that will run us into a dead end.

>>4323280
>>4323308
>>4323395
>>4323727
>>4326022
“It will be strongly considered,” you respond. With that, you take some time to mention your own peoples- they seem curious about your history and culture, which pleases you. You’re not so keen on explaining your horrid circumstances, but you see no problem with telling them of some of the more interesting aspects of your culture, such as the types of games to be played amongst the youth or the types of food preferred and such. They express more than a bit of interest in visiting some time, which may or may not be good. Perhaps you’d given them an impression of more than what’s actually there...mayhaps best to turn the discussion back to them.

“I must confess,” you start, “that your words regarding the Blood Eagles were interesting - as I recall they are very similar to what we have been told before.”

THAT seems to get the attention of the party at length. “Similar? Similar how?” Ryker asks.

You’re quick to explain what Orville informed you of- which the party seems to take gravely. Elise is the first to react. “I see...I wasn’t aware that this issue was beginning to become THAT widespread. I wonder why we hadn’t heard of it yet?”

“May not be well known,” Abigail suggests. “Or they could be trying to keep it under wraps.”

“Well, that’d be stupid,” Johan remarks. “Since the more people know, the sooner we could get some folks to handle it! Then again, that sounds like a perfect job for a powerful party…”

“Wait, you don’t me US, do ya?!” Radley yelps. “Blood Eagles is one thing, b-but if we’re talkin’ undead like creepy skeletons and zombies and stuff…” He seems to be shivering, for some reason. He can’t be cold, can he? “I-I dunno if we’re cut out for that just yet…”

Ah. He’s frightened. For someone so large, it’s odd how he seems to be so fearful… “What of these Blood Eagles, then?” you ask. “Are they less of a threat?”

“Well, they’re still ALIVE, I mean!” Radley explains. “They’re weird looking, but they still bleed, and still get affected by magic and all that stuff. They’re just corrosive and dangerous. Undead, though...well, there’s not a ton on them. They say that they don’t hurt, that magic doesn’t do much to them. That they can be cut in half and still keep going.” He shivers. “Scary stuff...”

“Only the magic of the divine can truly injure an undead creation,” Elise mentions. “And that is EXTREMELY rare magic. Even I do not have it despite being a cleric of the faith.” You have no idea what faith that is, nor did you even know that something called ‘divine’ magic existed. Something to look into later…

“Oy! You rat-peoples! Ya been cleared to enter!” a booming voice calls. “On order of the king, you’re to be escorted to His Majesty’s Palace on the double!” Ah. Finally.

Quickly turning to the group, you afford them a quick bow. “My apologies, but we must be on our way.”

(cont 1/3.)

>>4328467
“No problem!” Ryker says, giving a wave. “We’ve got a lot to talk about anyway, you guys go on.” With that, you take your leave.

“Wonder why they’re meeting the King...” you hear Johan mumble, but that’s all as you’re greeted by a set of four soldiers, who nod at your approach. “We’re to be your escorts, and we have a carriage prepared for you. Please step quickly.”

The ride is...illuminating, to say the least. The buildings are just as big as you’d anticipated- honestly, BIGGER. A single home for a human seems like it’d be able to fit two or three families of Rinim with room to spare! There’s a multitude of smells and sounds, and you must admit it is dizzying in their extremes. Rinim cities are large in their own way, but nothing so...scaled in size, for certain. It seems like humans and their ilk prefer to build UP. Rinim don’t mind up, for certain, but outward is more your style. At the very least, the stone and wood construction and whatnot seem familiar. So there’s overlap, and you feel fortunate that your trade is likely to have borne applicability for Rinim wares.

Of course, that’s before you get to the castle. Goodness gracious. You’d had to ask WHICH building is the castle, and upon the answer ‘all of it’, you’d realized that humans VERY much like having a great deal of space to call their own. This one castle was quite literally a city-within-a-city, easily the size of a Rinim city by its lonesome.

The area you stop in is...a very large main castle, with a lining of guards near it. You’re escorted out, and you can’t help but feel nervous as you approach the utterly massive double doors- they’re as big as your own back in Rodinash. You can hear someone just beyond them announce your presence, and with a massive creak, they at last open- and you step into opulence.

Shining metals and strange stone, an impossibly high ceiling with fantastic paintings...it all makes for an otherworldly image, even compared to your own housings and holdings. And directly ahead sits two individuals. The male is dressed in a good uniform and robes, red and yellow and black, with a brilliant cape on his back. It’s a bit lacking in style, but the colors are bold and fierce, and the cape certainly helps. He has fuzzy, red hair on his lower face, at least, even if it isn’t a great deal of it. The female has a rather large, poofy gown on- you can’t really say you approve of it perse, as it seems cumbersome to walk in, and hides her figure to a point where you’re uncertain of her health. Still, her face is calm and curious, black hair parted despite how long it drapes downwards around her head.

“You stand in the presence of His and Her Highnesses Lord and Lady Hale, King and Queen of Helias.” You bow, and are bidden rise- it seems protocol is similar to your own kingdom in the past.

(cont 2/3.)

>>4328471
“Well met,” King Parcelus says, and his voice is strong, crisp. “And we thank you for your prompt response and arrival. We understand you had a trade agreement for us to peruse?”

“That we did,” you confirm. “Thank you for your expressed interest.”

“Indeed. We have much to discuss.” With that, he and his wife rise, and he bids you follow him. He leads you to an opulent sitting room- thrice as large as any you’ve been in before. You are all sat down, and offered drink- leaf matter steeped in water, and it has a pleasant taste to it, similar to drink Rinim enjoy, to your pleasant surprise. “Your proposal was interesting. And our son spoke well of your skill. However, we understand that your situation is fragile in some manner. A settlement, only recently put to root, hardly a year in these lands, and a trade agreement only recently made courtesy of my son.” He frowns lightly. “I must inquire as to your capacity for productivity in that case. How may we be assured of your reliability, were we to agree to such an arrangement for a limited time- say, the remainder of the year?”

>Offer some sort of insurance.
>Try to sweet talk them considering your reliability so far.
>Other

>>4328484
>Try to sweet talk them considering your reliability so far.

>>4328484
>first of all, try to learn as much as possible about the products that we're supposed to work on.
>ask if you could see the products yourself and judge what exactly we are able to make
>propose a trial period of 2-3 months where we work on a portion of products that are possible to make with what we have
They are wary of handing over something so important to us, and we are more specialized in quality, not quantity. Don't try to sweet talk and make promises until we learn what we're dealing with, come on.

>>4328527
+

>>4328527
Let's do this then.

>>4328484
Supporting >>4328527

>>4328527
This is good.

Did we bring samples to show them?

Hoodelolly am I not feeling this quest anymore. I've been trying to push myself through it, but whenever I get up to write I end up being like 'ugh I really don't wanna'.

I apologize for all this delay stuff and wasting your time with this. Just...assume it goes well. Things will work out.

Oh boy, this experiment ended in failure. Sorta. I learned things, at least.

I'll return to MGFH in due time- give it about a week or two. I've got ideas for it now and that feeling of 'I want to write this' IS getting stronger. Not there yet, but getting stronger the more I think about the quest.

I'm just gonna take an overall breather and yeah. Decompress from crap that's been happening over the last week or two, play games, hang out in the new Discord and plot ahead.

God knows MGFH needs some spring cleaning vis-a-vie items. Might just start with that...