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File: dragon_girl_Randa_v2.jpg (143 KB, 856x1048)
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The flash of light that involves transportation goes away quicker than usual. It’s soon very quick why that’s apparent- your location is somewhere...well, dark, as far as you can tell. A large, circular chamber, made of dark grey brick is your location. There’s a set of gently illuminating torches that line the place, but using some sort of floating light magic that gives off a light greenish-hue to the surroundings. Directly ahead of you is a massive stone door with some sort of swirling, spiky symbol embossed on it- the closest thing you could approximate it to is ‘a sun made of smoke’ or something like that.

“So…” a deep, booming voice announces as you check yourself. “You’ve arrived, then. My agent.”

--------------
http://suptg.thisisnotatrueending.com/qstarchive.html?tags=Magical%20Girl%20For%20Hire%20Quest
General Pastebin: http://pastebin.com/u/MGFHQHandler
Character Details: http://pastebin.com/9J70gqM2
FAQ: http://pastebin.com/8unLWUjF
Twitter: https://twitter.com/MGFHandler
Ko-fi: https://ko-fi.com/Q5Q1MR92
Discord: https://discord.gg/wkg6ejt
-------------------

You nod, keeping silent for now. There’s a small laughter that comes from him. “Excellent...know you stand in the great summoning chambers of this world’s future master... the King of Shadow, and one true ruler of this realm- Ah-Rul! The pitiful beings of this land shall quake in terror once again!” A wind kicks up at his pronunciation, the wings on your back fluttering just a bit. You’d gotten pretty much what you asked for, as far as you can tell; a great pair of wings, curved horns, sharpened claws, all framed by a solid, impressive scalemail vest and similar greaves, with your feet capped off with bladed talons of footwear- actually...ARE they footwear? They feel like it, but you move your big toes and your claws respond. Huh. You even have a tail configure- although you can kinda feel the source at the base of your neck. Well, tails come from the spine, don’t they? Makes sense.

Ah, right, your client. Fortunately, he’d apparently been wanting you to drink it in. “Soon, very soon, I shall send you forth, bringing despair in your wake...and once my power is fully returned, I shall take the Power of Lagos for myself, and I will crush this land under my heel as I should have done so many years ago!” He lets out a booming (and pretty solid) wicked laugh as you consider what you might or might not have to work with...

At least it seems like this guy’s pretty confident in himself. At any rate, now’s probably the time to ask questions.

>What to ask?
>>
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>>4399412
This guy is pic related.
>>
>>4399412
>Who are your enemies?
>What is the plan? What is needed of me?
>Where do I start?
>>
>>4399412
>what is the first task you want me to do then?
Act like a cool and snarky underling.

>>4399418
we're going to fight the FOOLISH WARRIOR(s) and it will be cool.
>>
>>4399412
>"Do I reserve the right to pillage, my lord? We of Dragonblood are empowered by wealth."

I know we're bullshitting, but it's half truth, and this will get the "looting without permission" thing out of the way.
>>
>4399412
>Whom shall be made to suffer first?
>Extend the wings!
(Should we kneel? It's probably appropriate for the narrative to kneel.)
>Kneel
(Should we ask if we have plundering rights?)
>>
>>4399430
>not going with our characteristic brand of professionalism
>>
>>4399412
>Kneel
>"Enlighten your lesser servant, my King. What is this Power of Lagos, and how can I help you obtain it?"
>"Do I reserve the right to pillage, my lord? We of Dragonblood are empowered by wealth."
>Extend wings
>>
>>4399412
>What do you need me to do?
>I reserve the right to pillage.

No requesting. Nothing too showboaty. Keep it professional. He's a client, not our employeer.
>>
Last thread is not archived. Will be a while until it is slid away, but just a note.
>>
>>4399440
I mean, he paid for a narrative rider, that's worth some acting and lip service to his face at the least. If not we're not being properly professional.
>>
Asking about Pillaging right off the bat might annoy him, given that he knows we are to be paid an exorbitant amount of wealth. Worse he might take it off our paycheck.
>>
>>4399459
The Summon job had a narrative rider as well, never had to kneel or call the client our 'master'. Following a narrative rider doesn't mean we have to be a submissive bootlicker.
>>
>>4399464
I'm alright with bowing and calling him by his title, but kneeling and calling him 'our' lord is too far.
>>
>>4399464
Well we sort of got into onsite trouble for being too willful on that job. I'll conceed, "Master" and "My Lord" might be too heavy of roleplaying for Miranda. I think kneeling is harmless though, and we've been on enough jobs for evil overlords, they betray you less often if you're willing to humor their grandeur.
>>
>>4399478
That. This guy has a huge ego (typical), we just need to butter him up a little.
>>
>>4399486
I'm voting against going full Ham for future reference, dragons are commonly prideful, and while we're perfectly loyal so long as we're paid, we don't need to degrade ourselves or
come off as (accurately) sarcastic to the desperate overlord.
>>
>>4399478
Personally, I’m hoping he forgets that we’re a mercenary and not his underling so we can loot him and blow the place when he tries to keep us around too long.
>>
>>4399478
>>4399486
>become badass dragon
>monster warrior of terrifying power
>start kissing ass right at the begining of the mission
>>
>>4399490
>goddamnit...
*blow the place up
>>
>God.

>Damnit.

>>4399495
>>4399492
>>
>>4399494
Well, what, you wanna play the stoic? That's fine, I don't.
>>
>>4399498
I said we can bow and call him whatever he calls himself, but no need to overdo it.>>4399471
>>
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So the consensus is to have us seen as a professional dragon and not a kissass?

>>4399435
>Switch kneel to bow.
>"My greetings, Shadow King. What needs to be done?"
>"We of Dragonblood are empowered by wealth and treasure. Should it be allowed, I reserve my right to pillage. It would contribute to the war effort tremendously."

To the point and present an argument for the looting to not come off as greedy.
>>
>>4399412
>"King of Shadow, Ah-Rul, i'm [Insert made up name here] of the Silver Eye, as by the bounds of the summoning: i shall heard your commands while travelling the land to retrieve the artifact you so desire in exchange for payment worthy of the deed of course. This bound is terminated once the deed is done."

>"What is thy bedding my Lord?"
>>
>>4399651
Doh', oh right, and introduce our name of course.
>>
>>4399649
Even Sauron needed to trick Smaug.
>>
>>4399651
Or maybe replace the "My lord" part for "Oh Shadow King"
>>
>>4399412
I support >>4399651
We gotta remind him that we're not gonna be here forever.
I suggest Melinda for the codename.
>>
>>4399651
I hope Handler fixes that bedding typo back to bidding.
>>
I hope this guy has a fat armory that we can procure from.
>>
Writing now!
>>
>>4400810
Yes!!! Dragon time!
>>
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We're commanding armies for a resurrecting overlord, what does that mean?
That's right folks, it's everyone's favorite leisure and pastime activity, committing war crimes!

My favorites are experimenting on PoWs and hostages with a side of scorched earth.
>>
>>4400843
Let's napalm a village using randa new green flames.
>>
>>4400843
Boy he better not ask us to do necromancy, because that's a hard no-way ho-zay.
>>
>>4400865
We don't need necromancy. Also his stick seems to be more shadow stuff. Wonder if his army is a army of orcs.
>>
>>4399412
>>4399431
>>4399425
>>4399440
>>4399649
>>4399651

This guy seems one one of your usual ‘big on pomp, circumstance, and supplication’ sorts, just judging from how he talks. And, well. He paid for the Narrative Rider. Might as well play to the ol’ ego to make sure things start on the right foot.

You decide a decent bow is in order, allowing yourself to get a feel for your tail at the same time. "King of Shadow, Ah-Rul, I am Melinda of the Silver Eye; and as the bonds of the summoning state: I shall heed your commands while travelling the land to retrieve the artifact you so desire, in exchange for payment worthy of the deed, of course. This bond is to be terminated once the deed is done.”

“Hm. Of course…” he...grumbles? You swear that’s a grumble. Almost a whine, even.

Nonetheless, you continue. “What is thy bidding, oh Shadow King?"

You can practically hear the grin as the shadowy presence seems to accumulate further. “The fools that govern this realm thought my power well and truly sealed. In ages past, their ancestors opposed me for power- and to their blasted fortune, cast me down. However, their WEAKNESS was not enough to end me for good, no...they thought to use ancient magics, and with assistance by those accursed Fairy Elders, broke my power into pieces, sealed them away into five ‘Lockstones’, and scattered them to the winds.” You can hear the disgust in his voice as you let him monologue. “I know not where exactly they lie, as the power of the Fairies blinds me to their presence. Yet, they underestimate my being. Already the essence of myself has begun to creep, corrupt and decay. This, and the enormity of my being allows me to detect them in a general sense. I shall direct you, and you shall, regardless of obstacles in your way obtain those blasted stones! Ah, but do NOT break them, for they contain a link to my power that I must utilize to restore myself truly. Once I do...I can at last obtain the Power of Lagos. The power of the world itself...”

That sounds risky as hell, to be frank. But you’re not voicing that right now. “Then do I reserve the right to pillage, sire? If you haven’t noticed…”

A laugh emits from all directions. “Yes, yes...ahhh, I’d nearly forgotten...Verugan...the ancient dragon and his kin were quite avaricious.”

...sure, you’ll roll with it. “Indeed. We of Dragonblood are empowered by wealth."

“So be it. I care not for glittering gold and gems, for they are but trinkets and baubles to me, though much of it, claimed rare and valuable, has been thrown to me by fools seeking mercy where there is none. But of that stock you shall have NONE until the deed is done!” Well, it’s something. “However, be warned- you shall only do so under MY command, and under no other situation!”

Oh, blah. “As you command, sire.”

(cont.)
>>
>>4400890
“Good. Now, then...hmm, yes. Where shall you begin searching...there are three I can sense at this moment, if faintly. To the north, amidst the great mountain ranges, if I recall. The east, no doubt somewhere near in that blasted Kingdom of Alminia...ah, and to the west, indeed...where lies another kingdom, no doubt- and once the site of one of my most fierce battles, yes..." Hm. Well, at least you've got choice in this. Although you kinda wish you had a map, he doesn't sound like he can tell exactly what's been going on outside. Boo.

"This is all I can detect for now. YOU, agent, must search of them yourself beyond that. And for that purpose, some subterfuge may be required...” Almost before he finishes saying such, the inky darkness swirles, coalesces…and a cloak, long, and dark violet, forms from the shadow. “Here. Through my magics, none shall sense your true being unless desired, save, perhaps, for those with affinity to the -light-” he chokes out, “-the cowards. Have you any other questions? If not, then you shall begin at once!”

>Any further questions?

>Choose where to go:

>North, towards the mountains.
>East, towards Alminia.
>West, towards the other kingdom.
>>
>>4400900
>"Before we begin, sire, how should I contact you during the progress of retrieving these stones?"
>"Are there other agents too beside myself that I should know about?"
>>
>>4400900
>North, towards the mountains.
The area is emote, so news will spread slowly (if at all) on their tech level, they'll have less time to respond and organize before we come after the second gem.
>>
>>4400910
*remote
Supporting this too>>4400904
>>
>>4400904
>>4400910
++
>>
>>4400900
Supporting >>4400904 and >>4400910
Using Gartoum as our reconnaissance, stealing and spying guy would be essentiall here. Plus, he fits with our gimmick of shadows and shit.
>>
>>4400900
>East, towards Alminia.
North sounds really safe, like, this worlds races are human fairy catfolk and orcs. No dwarves even. It'll probably just be some ancient ruins or something, probably the right choice. I wanna go to Alminia and see what we're dealing with, it'll probably be more interesting.
>>
>>4400900
>North, towards the mountains.
A slow and quiet start.
>>
>>4400924
I thought really hard about elves. Like, near an hour JUST on that decision. Once I decided no on those, I also decided no traditional dwarves.
>>
Anyway, North it is! Writing.
>>
>>4400900
>North, towards the mountains

There were no dwarfs in the races described in this world. So the mountains will be safe-ish.
>>
>>4400929
Just watch us end up making a forest fire or blowing off the mountain.
>>
Oh god...i just realized what the Mountain is... It's were the freaking hero village is!!!
>>
To do list when we go:
>we need to gain more knowledge of these fairies since they're a threat to our client and us
>get a map
>steal everything in our path

>>4400954
>>4400968
you're really convincing me to use Gartoum for recon in the area and as a helping hand in genocide.
>>
>>4400968
Well, there's nothing saying there can't be a tragic protagonist starter town in the mountains, but I dunno where your certainty comes from.
>>
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>>4400968
fuck
>>
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>>4400968
>>4400980
>get a map
>steal everything in our path
>burn the hero village while leaving him and his sidekick alive

It's just like my video games.
>>
>>4400900
>>4400904
>>4400910
>>4400914
>>4400916
>>4400929
>>4400939
“Just a moment more,” you insist, deciding on the flowery phrasing. “Before we begin, sire, how should I contact you during the progress of retrieving these stones?"

“You need not concern yourself with such a matter,” he dismisses. “Behold.” The darkness swirls again, and comes together...and a small pin, with that same symbol as the door drops into your hand. “This hereon will be my method of contact. Sight, as I am, is difficult. But SENSE...that is a different story. Speech beyond this place will be difficult, and I shall do so sparingly. Know this, and do not disappoint me with errors in judgement.”

You pin it to your new cloak. "Understood. Are there other agents too beside myself that I should know about?"

“Muhahah...not any of your type, no. But in due time, all things will become MINE. I shall see to that, and you, perhaps, shall bear witness during the process...”

Interesting. Well, then, that’s all you have to-

“However…” Hm? “There is one of a sort. And I shall grant it as a boon to you. To carry you swiftly from place to place- and to strike fear in the hearts of those who dare witness it.”

Wait, is he-

A high, warbling screeching erupts from far above you- the pitch blackness causing you to miss the fact that anything was up there at all. A gust of wind and large, flapping wings beating down towards you causes you to leap back in instinct as an immense, bat-like beast alights with surprising agility on the ground, though it’s landing still causes the ground to shake a bit. As you take a better look at it...yeah, it’s definitely a black and silver bat. It’s got longer legs that allow it to stand up right, but otherwise, the ears, fangs and all definitely scream ‘bat’. “This creature was one of the first to turn to heed my dark power upon being sealed in here. It has grown large, and most eager to serve its master. It shall do so, by ferrying you to wherever you need go.”

(cont.)
>>
>>4400990
Huh. You were kinda hoping he could just kinda...warp you close? But guess not. As you approach the creature, it indeed seems...docile, for lack of a better word. It at least lets you scratch its neck fluff, as wild and unruly and freaking thick as it is. “Waste no more time! I desire those stones, and my POWER!”

Impatient cuss. Well, fine. Not much else here for you, anyway. You give a bow- slightly mocking in your head, but you doubt he notices. “As you wish, sire.” With that, you clamber on the thing’s back- there’s plenty of hair for a handhold, and it’s also not honestly that uncomfortable. “Then to the north, and swiftly!”

With another cry, it takes off, flapping high, high, high into the darkness, to the point you’re starting to wonder just how the hell you’re getting out of here- and then suddenly it pivots in pitch-black, and there’s a speck of orange light on the horizon…

You burst out into the evening sun from the subterranean caverns as you climb higher and higher into fresh air- before long, you’re among the clouds, and looking down at a world that goes from dust and dirt and dead lands, to lush greenery and hills and more- and clearly has no clue what it’s in store for.

But, considering a mount like this...should make for quick travel, hopefully. You don’t even SEE the mountains yet, so it may well be a bit of a trip…

>Roll 2d20, best of three.
>>
Rolled 19, 3 = 22 (2d20)

>>4400992
uh oh
>>
Rolled 7, 4 = 11 (2d20)

>>4400992
>>
Rolled 17, 10 = 27 (2d20)

>>4400992
>>
>>4400988
Or...
We could just leave the hero starter village be and delay their chances of going out of their villages because I can't think of a way to quickly destroy a village without fire (which will make smoke and alert nearby villages)
>>
>>4400992
19, 10.

Hm.

Writing!
>>
>>4400992
>>4400994
>>4400995
>>4400998
Fortunately, it seems as though the beast is plenty capable of kicking it into high gear. It’s only a couple of hours before you see the mountains in the distance…a wide range of mountains, you should say.

That in itself is frustrating, really- how the hell are you going to...well, maybe this pin. You consider it, looking at the thing for a moment- but it’s then a screech takes you out of your musings. It hadn’t screeched all flight.

As your mount moves closer...well, you don’t really need to in order to see what it’s probably screeching about. A town. An actual, honest to goodness stone and wood castle town that seems to be situated halfway up the mountain. Okay, granted, the snow’s not thick like further up, but it’s still honestly kinda surprising for you. It’s got city walls, watchtowers (you think) and everything- including its castle further in the back.

It’s likely this place is decently defended, surprisingly enough. That’s...not the start you were hoping for. Especially considering you’re not certain where the Lockstone is...for all you know, it might be on a different mountain entirely…

...but that castle is probably the best source of information you’ve got on hand.

>You don’t know if they’ve figured out what you are just yet, and with your cloak, you shouldn’t raise any alarms if you turn back now and enter on foot. Play it careful, and see if you can’t ask for directions, so to speak.
>You’d rather not deal with that right now. The mountain range isn’t THAT big- you can at least scout it out, maybe bug your patron a bit and see if he can’t sense anything now if nothing turns up.
>The local lord probably WOULD know about something like this. Maybe you can make a grand entrance and ‘convince’ him to share.
>Other
>>
>>4401030
>You don’t know if they’ve figured out what you are just yet, and with your cloak, you shouldn’t raise any alarms if you turn back now and enter on foot. Play it careful, and see if you can’t ask for directions, so to speak.
We need to be on foot in order to break vases!
>>
>>4401030
>Other
Send Gartoum in while you scout other areas.
>>
>>4401037
He doesn't have that kinda range, if you mean go to other mountains, I'll say that right now.
>>
>>4401030
>You’d rather not deal with that right now. The mountain range isn’t THAT big- you can at least scout it out,
>take out Gartoum to scout as well.
Nah, we don't know what's in that town/mountain and we don't want the people to alert others about us this early.
>>
>>4401042
Forgot he has limited range hmm
Supporting>>4401043
>>
>>4401042
>>4401043
Ok how about we land near the mountain. And scout from there?
>>
>>4401043
>>4401046
Sure, let's do this instead. The area around the settlement in general?
>>
>>4401048
Yes. We can send Gart to the town to gather info while we scout around the mountains.
>>
>>4401030
so, the consensus is that we're landing nearby and start scouting together with Gartoum?
>>
>>4401030
>You don’t know if they’ve figured out what you are just yet, and with your cloak, you shouldn’t raise any alarms if you turn back now and enter on foot. Play it careful, and see if you can’t ask for directions, so to speak.

We can terrorize the countryside once our evil dark lord buddy has any sort of army.
>>
>>4401052
Think so. Let's actually be stealthy for once.
>>
>>4401049
we can also order to Gart steal a map from the town.
>>
Seems like indeed, majority is for scouting around the general area while Gartoum does what he can inside the town.

Writing.
>>
so I guess these folks are some sort of highlanders, and these kind of people tend to be suspicious of any outsiders. that might make trying to talk with them extra difficult. although judging by the location and their size/development, this place is of strategic importance and they rely on imports for food and other goods.
>>
Try not to do any sidequests once we've done a big move (like taking the first stone). They'll eventually pick it up and fortify other locations then.
>>
>>4401030
>>4401046
>>4401048
>>4401049
>>4401052
>>4401056
>>4401057
“Turn back,” you tell the beast, pulling on its hair at the same time. You don’t want to park this thing too close to them, and you don’t want to risk setting foot inside a city right now. But that said...you DO have other options. Or option, rather. “I’ll get down somewhere well outside the city, and I’ll go from there,” you mention. “You just keep away and don’t come back until I need you...although how I’ll do that, I’m not sure…” you admit out loud.

It gives a short cry, and does as told. You don’t want to get too far away from the mountain, though...at the very least where there’s a few crags, outcroppings, and small trees to provide a semblance of cover. You wind up landing in what’s essentially a small cave. Figures the bat would pick something like that...but it’s not a bad choice, you’ll admit. The castle is some thirty minutes walk or a couple minutes hopping, you estimate. As you climb off, your mount suddenly turns to you, leaning down and looking at you close as you lean back to gain a bit of space. It looks more inquisitive, not violent, so you don’t react...at least, not until it reaches a giant clawed wing around and taps the pin on your cloak twice.

It doesn’t take you long to get the message. “What, is this thing how I can contact you? Can you hear me through it or something?”

It gives a small, short chirp in what you can only guess is affirmation. Certainly no help from the boss themselves… “Well, here’s hoping. Gartoum, come out!”

“Ah, greetings!” His form today is a rather top-heavy, ink-black demonic look, although his face is absent features aside from eyes, his bat wings are a bit small for the frame, and his bottom half is just one long stream of shadow going into the ground like some kind of shadow genie. “My my, a lot of delectable energy around here! I must admit, I’m quite at home! Although I cannot help but feel insulted for perhaps obvious reasons…”

Right, he used to be a big deal with the darkness, too...well, nevermind that for now. “Maybe, but I still need your help. We’re looking for something called a ‘Lockstone’. Rare artifact, keeps our client restrained. We think it’s in this mountain range, but there’s a castle town here, too. Was thinking you could try and infiltrate the place, see if there’s anything to figure out, while I scout outside of it and hopefully find a lead or the thing itself that way.”

(cont.)
>>
>>4401102

To your surprise, he actually adopts a thinking post. “Mmm...well, that DOES sound interesting, but I must have you know, if you’re going as far as I think you are, I should note that the further away from that precious little home on your finger, the worse I am at magic, the weaker I am- and the longer it’ll take for me to reconstitute myself should...ah, the worst happen. BUT! If you’re certain, so am I!” Well… “Now, which way was it?”

“To the west of here, there’s a trail that leads up to it. Hard to miss.” Before any more words can be said, he slips out, nothing but an elongated puddle of black. "And get a damn map," you hiss into the ring.

Well...points for enthusiasm, you suppose. In the meantime, you’d better get started as well…

(Cutting it for here right now. Resuming tomorrow. Gotta say, kinda got a fire going in me for this one.)
>>
>>4401104
Thanks for running!
>>
>>4401104
Ah, so we can try to be a little closer to the castle. we should activate our enhanced hearing and danger sense while we scout.
Thanks for running.
>>
>>4401104
Keep it up, glad you're back.
>>
>>4401121
FutureSight could provide more information - it has zoom function and even record sound from distance.
>>
>>4401104
Glad you're glad Handler!
>>
>>4401150
The enhanced hearing and danger sense are more for detecting dangerous animals like wolves/bears or random people/guards/hunters in our path.
Oh yeah, I forgot about the FutureSight
>>
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So, what kind of opposition can be expected from these kingdoms? What can they use against us? The tech level here is noticeably higher that in the shadow war mission.
>Technological Level Examples: Printing Press Available, Sea Transport available, Beast-Drawn Carriage Transport Available, Flintlock Weaponry Available.
This suggests that more of a Renaissance era level of development: spyglasses; professional standing armies and mercenary companies instead of levied peasants; polearms dominate the battlefield https://youtu.be/2Dj5fWYvSx8?t=303 ; shot and pike formations; canons and mortars replace the cumbersome and static catapults and trebuchets; cavalry with pistols and thick musket proof armor to dab on pike lines;
Historically, shields, bows and crossbows get out of style in that period, mostly because guns and new tactics made them obsolete, but were still used to some degree, and with some magic they can be even more dangerous: shield could reflect or block spells and specialized bolts and arrows were a thing.
>>
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>>4401216
Maybe gun shields could be a popular thing
>>
>>4401218
never, it's a gimmick at best and an awkward un-aim-able heavy hunk of garbage any other time.
>>
>>4400982
Mostly because this region is a isolated place in the mountains. The Hero is usually from a small town village or soms other fief far away from the usual knows main cities.
>>
>>4401216
Good thing it was confirmed by Handler last thread that normal flintlock bullets SHOULDN'T penetrate our skin. Enchanted bullets are another thing however.
>>
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>>4401216
For anti-magic handheld shields that can deflect our blasts, guess who just bought a Kirkhammer and want to test it out?

It will be just like playing baseball, can even stack with the Assault Crystal or Over Channel.
>>
Writing in just a bit. My attention is a touch split, but nothing major.
>>
>>4401104
You’ve been at this for some hours now, hopping around this mountain area. It’s cold, you’re kinda peckish, and Gartoum hasn’t said anything yet. Well, annoying as it is, you’ve still got a bit more real estate to check that you feel safe staying within his range of…

...although you’ve been careful to avoid anything like guard presences. There’s been a couple of patrols here and there you’ve had to dodge, but nothing major yet, thank goodness. You’re going to have to figure on another plan of action if this one doesn’t pan out…

>Roll 2d20, best of three.
>>
Rolled 7, 3 = 10 (2d20)

>>4402483
>>
Rolled 6, 14 = 20 (2d20)

>>4402483
>>
Rolled 1, 19 = 20 (2d20)

>>4402483
>>
>7,19
bad news and good news.
>>
>>4402493
Either we or Gart just got spotted.
>>
>>4402483
>>4402485
>>4402487
>>4402488
Nothing. You can’t find a damn thing in these crags, not right now, anyway. You’re on your way back, considering calling Gartoum, when you see something out of the corner of your eye that sends you scrabbling backwards as quietly as possible - hell, you were maybe five steps away from nearly getting caught as you were rounding the corner. It’s two guards, one male, one female, both human and walking away from you. The male is armed with a sword, the female with a short staff- scepter, really. To make matters worse, they stop to gossip.

It’s not even GOOD gossip, just complaining about merchant prices and goings on in the town. Nothing relevant to you-

“Helloooo?” Oh, Gartoum. Seems he had a similar idea for timing. “Got a moment?”

Hm. Best to back up a bit. “Yeah. Go ahead.”

“I DO believe I’ve found something.” Thank goodness. “I must say, this place is DRIPPING with magic. Very few homes and places without some kind of charm or alarm, very dangerous! I couldn’t even get NEAR the castle, it’s got quite a defensive barrier on it against...folks of my sort.” He carries a bit of a grumble with that, but otherwise continues on. “That saaaid, from what I managed to overhear, it looks like the Lockstone is under close guard, and somewhere west of here on the mountain.”

“Hm. I looked west, but I didn’t notice any trail or anything...then again, why WOULD there be a trail…?” you mutter to yourself. “Sounds like it was out of range for me to keep you within reasonable range.”

“It ALSO sounds like it may get a bit nippy…one of the guards complained about how cold it was. We’re likely to do a bit of spelunking.”

Unsurprising. “Good work, I-” Wait. Footsteps. Coming your way.

Shit.

>Cut the call, act calm.
>Prepare to do some quick knockouts.
>Other
>>
>>4402519
>Cut the call, act calm.
>Quietly call Gartoum back to assist in a possible knockout.
Just a normal little girl doing some foraging, nothing to worry about.
>>
>>4402519
>>4402525
This could work.
either way quickly kill the mage first.
>>
>>4402519
>>4402525
+
If our act doesn't work, just geek em'
>>
>>4402519
>>4402525
>>
Our moveset is loud and flashy, might need to use the assault crystal to avoid drawing more attention.
>>
>>4402528
Also if we're gonna kill them, order Gart to target the mage first so the swordsman gets distracted and we have an opening to kill him as well.
I think killing them would be ideal since they won't provide clues about us to their superiors
>>
>>4402536
Also steal their stuff and bury the bodies in the snow
>>
>>4402536
We've got a new fancy anti-magic knife, better leave the fighter to Gartoum to play with.
>>
>>4402519
>Cut the call, act calm.
>Danger sniff
We do have skills to perform subterfuge, we just often forget we have them.
>>
Writing!
>>
>>4402519
Oh right, use danger sense as well
>>
>>4402519
>>4402525
>>4402528
>>4402530
>>4402531
“Get back here but be stealthy about it,” you rush whisper as you make to calm yourself down. Alright, careful, think of an alibi…

“Whoa there!” You’re not even looking in their direction, but you get that tense feeling that you always get when someone’s got a bead on you and you just kinda KNOW. She (as it was definitely the girl) continues. “Apologies, stranger, but you’re in Elertian territory and we've been informed to be quite careful as of late. Mind informing us as to your purpose here?” You take a quick sniff- it gets no reaction, as you’re facing away from them. The male...hardly anything at all. Likely just all strength. The girl has a faint, overripe applish scent, but that’s all. Nothing to concern yourself, then, just standard patrol guards. Still, best not to cause undue trouble.

“Just some foraging, is all,” you say idly as you slowly, carefully stand up. “Nothing more.”

“...foraging?” there’s a pause. “And with no container I can see?” Ah, right. Although wait, you DID have a container…

“Is this good enough?” you ask as you turn around, pulling out your bag of holding- it’s taken the form of a moderately sized satchel, perfect as an excuse.

“...Ah.” To her credit, she seems a touch ashamed, but otherwise holds steady...though upon locking eyes with you, you can see her bravery waver, as well as her comrade’s, judging by their sudden onset of shaky legs. “Well, uh...er...s-sorry, uh, Miss.”

> (Intimidation) “Is this how you welcome all newcomers to your lands? Blind suspicion?”
> “It's fine. Could you lead me in the direction of the town?”
> "...leave me be. We’ll think no further of it."
> "Is something the matter to be so cautious?"
> Other
>>
>>4402591
>"Is something the matter to be so cautious?"
>"is it dangerous for me to stay here? Then I should hurry back"
>>
>>4402591
>“It's fine. Could you lead me in the direction of the town?”
>Mentally order Gartoum to attack the swordsman
>Kill the mage by slashing her throat with the draining knife while they're surprised/distracted.
>>
>>4402591
>>4402598
Actually I'm gonna change my vote and combine >>4402594 with
>Mentally order Gartoum to attack the swordsman when he gets near
>Kill the mage by slashing her throat with the draining knife while they're surprised/distracted
>>
>>4402591
> "I'm a newcomer to this land, as you can see. I'm trying to find out more about it."
> "Is something the matter to be so cautious?"

Not yet, anon. There will be time for blood, but not now.
>>
>>4402591
>>4402594
>>4402607
>>
>>4402591
> "Is something the matter to be so cautious?"
I think we don't want patrols to go missing yet, let's just lett'm go, we already have a lead on the stone. We can mislead them on where we're going to assuage fear.
Or we could offer to help, that's always hilarious.
Capture is an option, but we don't exactly have anywhere to put them, or any way to send them back to the evil shadow lord.
Murdering them wont work to throw off our trail, patrols going missing is often a sign of bad in the area.
>>
Locked and writing!
>>
>>4402631
We can kill them in a way that suggests monsters did the deed. We also happen to have a shadow monster between our fingers.
>>
>>4402637
Why should we bother?
>>
>>4402659
If mana autopsy is a thing (high chance), we need some way to redirect suspicions.
>>
>>4402591
>>4402594
>>4402607
>>4402619
>>4402631

You eye them for a moment, letting the fear sink in juuust a bit, before speaking. “Well, I'm a newcomer to this land, as you can see. I'm trying to find out more about it. And speaking of such..." you give them a faux once-over, frown deepening. “You seem concerned. Is something the matter to be so cautious?"

“Ah, well- well, I…” she takes a moment to pause and clear her throat (and her fear). “T- there’s been reports of monsters becoming far more aggressive than normal as of late. They’ve attacked guarded caravans when normally a few pikemen would be enough to keep them at bay.”

“Some’ve even been throwing themselves at the walls,” the swordsman pipes up. There’s clear worry in his voice. “Nothing tonight, thank goodness! But, uh... you should, ah, get indoors afore you run into...y’know... trouble.” He trails off at that last bit- the sky is clear enough on this night that you can tell he’s not exactly saying so in the best mood. With such a setting, illuminated by the light of the moon and perhaps a magelight, judging by the soft glow they give off, you can easily see why they’re on pins and needles.

“You need not worry about me,” you say calmly as you sense Gartoum sloughing into view just barely. “If such is the case, then if it is so dangerous, perhaps I should hurry off.”

She opens her mouth once, twice, as though trying to get something out. “W-well...are you sure? I mean...the, uh...the good people of Glowfield wouldn’t say no to an, uh, errant young traveler...” It’s obvious to you she hardly means it, but she’s rather just trying to be polite.

Still, it’s unnecessary. “As I said, you don’t need to worry about me. Whether I go or not, I’ll be quite fine, thank you.” With that, you casually walk towards- ignoring their flinch- and past them, Khartoum moving into your shadow once you’re out of view.

“Some guards,” he scoffs inwardly. “A mean look and they’re wetting themselves. Pathetic.”

You can’t disagree, but best to move on to more important things. “Well, let’s not worry about them for now. You mentioned west?”

“Oh yes, of where we touched down! Have to do a bit of climbing, methinks, too. It sounded like there IS something of a path, but it’s unpaved and not quite obvious…” Well...that’s better than it being absolutely anywhere. “As I said, there’ll be a guard presence, so best to keep an eye out! That is, IF we’re going out tonight.”

>Might as well, get it over with. It’ll be a lot riskier in the darkness, but the sooner the better.
>No, you’re just going to sleep in that cavern and tackle that issue when you have daylight to work with.
>The town might not be that bad an idea, actually. At least as a rest stop, if nothing else. Not like you HAVE to sleep at an inn...
>Other
>>
>>4402679
>The town might not be that bad an idea, actually. At least as a rest stop, if nothing else. Not like you HAVE to sleep at an inn...
Risky move, but we need to know more about the lockstone place before planning an assault. Only place for that is the town.
>>
>>4402679
>The town might not be that bad an idea, actually. At least as a rest stop, if nothing else. Not like you HAVE to sleep at an inn...
If we're gonna smash n dash, we should do it when we can see where we're going. Nice to see if we trigger shadow wards too.
I'd wager the anti-shadow forces are, probably not better at, but probably more prepared for night fights than Miranda.
>>
>>4402679
>The town might not be that bad an idea, actually. At least as a rest stop, if nothing else. Not like you HAVE to sleep at an inn...
>Other
They should have some kind of messenger office right? If we can stalk one of them on the way between settlements...
>>
>>4402679
>No, you’re just going to sleep in that cavern and tackle that issue when you have daylight to work with.
Don't want no 'light'-alligned fools stumbling upon us.
>>
>>4402719
as in 'sening our presence'
>>
locked. Writing! We're townbound.
>>
>>4402679
>>4402701
>>4402707
>>4402712

“Best not, I don’t think,” you communicate back to him. “Considering we don’t know much beyond what you managed. Which IS good information, don’t get me wrong, but if there’s guard presence, there might be more. Not to mention I’d rather not try to trek across a mountain in darkness. I might have you, but I still prefer to see where I’m going.”

“Aww...well, I suppose it makes a CERTAIN amount of sense…” and he doesn’t say anything more, thankfully. Now you just need to figure out how to get inside; the gate’s long closed. Well...not like that’s a major issue, really. You make sure to pluck a few herbs and flowers from what little you can see- at least, you think they’re such. It’ll be good fodder to fool anyone if you have to fall back on that excuse again…

...and then you follow the long, long wall around, at a distance, of course. It’s a decent wall, but with your claws, all you need is a spot with no guards…

It takes a bit, but fortunately that happens, around a small creek flowing into and under the city through a basic sewer, and you clamber up and over with little further fanfare- to land in what you can only presume to be a small intake area, with little but a few empty crates to greet you. Onwards, then. Best to keep your head down and suspicion low. The castle itself, standing much further in the back and practically built into the mountain, looms over the town itself, reminding you of its wards Gartoum claimed. You’ll have to be careful here...but first, to find somewhere less exposed to take a nap…

(continued tomorrow!)
>>
>>4402751
Thanks for the run boss!
>>
Nice, great job handler see you next time
>>
Jus a reminder everyone

>Local Rulership: King Jader (Alminia) / Empress Kitha (Yulin) / Lord and Lady Aurintine (Droga) / Queen Asha (Elerta) / King Crova (Balunda)

So apparently we are in Elerta, Queen Asha territory.
>>
>To her credit, she seems a touch ashamed, but otherwise holds steady...though upon locking eyes with you, you can see her bravery waver, as well as her comrade’s, judging by their sudden onset of shaky legs
>“Some guards,” he scoffs inwardly. “A mean look and they’re wetting themselves. Pathetic.”

Pay attention, our intimidation is so high it's leaking through our masquerade cloak.

This gives me some ideas.
>>
i wonder were Randa is sleeping. Maybe she found a nice roof to sleep.
>>
Not able to run tonight, obviously, but tomorrow is weekend. Apologies.
>>
>>4404149
It's k. We all have those days.
>>
>before long, you’re among the clouds, and looking down at a world that goes from dust and dirt and dead lands, to lush greenery and hills and more- and clearly has no clue what it’s in store for.
>A town. An actual, honest to goodness stone and wood castle town that seems to be situated halfway up the mountain. Okay, granted, the snow’s not thick like further up, but it’s still honestly kinda surprising for you.
So, what time of the year is it? Late winter? Early spring?
>>
>>4404446
The town we are at is on the mountain's top. So obviously there is a climate change when you go up the mountain range.
>>
File: snowline.jpg (31 KB, 465x291)
31 KB
31 KB JPG
>>4404633
It's not at the top, only half-way in. But we're in the north, so maybe you're right. Just thought that it'd be interesting to see places in different seasons and deal with more diverse environmental conditions, since we're traveling across time and space. I think the only time we've seen rain in this quest was in the other medieval mission, where we spent two month campaigning with Izumi.
>>
Writing in a bit.
>>
>>4405382
Nice
>>
>>4402751
You’d eventually decided on the rooftops of a small, boxed in home between two larger buildings. No windows on either side of you, and blessedly, said roof was only slightly curved, meaning you could stay on it with little issue. A commoner’s home...although for a commoner, it was well built and clearly in a space where there was warmth to be had and security to be found, so maybe not-so-common...merchant, you’d guess, then.

When you wake up, you give a quick check around to see if anyone’s making any fuss about you...and blessedly, it seems like no one’s noticed. Thank goodness. You’re not even sure anyone would see you, the house is down an alley, if a nice one. Although that does leave the issue of how to leave without being spotted...you got here under the cover of darkness, but you didn’t anticipate how many children used this area as a playplace...there IS a guard wall not far away, but you’d wager it’s, well, guarded. Dropping down onto the street and just walking is...well, you doubt the children would take kindly to that. Screams would abound, or otherwise they’d take interest where they shouldn’t. What to do…?

>Take your chances with the wall and make for it.
>Wait it out, be patient, and drop when the kids (and preferably anyone else) leaves.
>You may have to drop down...be as casual and non-threatening as possible though.
>Other
>>
>>4405429
>Wait it out, be patient, and drop when the kids (and preferably anyone else) leaves.
>>
>>4405429
>You may have to drop down...be as casual and non-threatening as possible though.

The kids live in the area and are guliable they probably know about the path and everything else.
>>
>>4405429
>Wait it out, be patient, and drop when the kids (and preferably anyone else) leaves.
>try to use Gartoum's shadowporting to hide from view/sneak out
>>
>>4405429
Since we're on a rooftop already, are there other buildings around that might have windows or rooftop access? Ladders or what have you from ground level? Hopping off a rooftop is suspicious but if we come down a ladder I don't think anyone will bat an eye.
>>
>>4405429
>Wait it out, be patient, and drop when the kids (and preferably anyone else) leaves.
>>
>>4405439
Let's try this.
>>
>>4405441
You can't see any ladders around, nor rooftop access. You can see a window on one of the adjacent buildings near you, but it's higher up, and you'd be in full view of just about anyone that bothered to look.
>>
>>4405452
>You may have to drop down...be as casual and non-threatening as possible though.
It's just a rooftop
>>
Just be calm.

Writing.
>>
>>4405429
>>4405433
>>4405439
>>4405450
>>4405448

Well, no reason to rush it, you think. You hold steady for a while- several hours, in fact. The kids mostly leave...save for one or two, unfortunately, who seem to just hang there, eat probably- stale bread, and lament their lives. You wouldn’t be surprised if they lived there, judging by their threadbare clothes. Still...you could’ve gone longer, but you soon get a voice in your head, one all too familiar.

“Alrighty, now, this is just sad. I’m fairly certain I COULD just...get us out of here. Remember that little shadow diving trick we did last job? Howsabout we just do that again?” Khartoum suggests. Well, that is an option, true… “I don’t THINK they’ve got any particular magic sensitivity since I basically had the run of the place so long as I wasn’t obvious…”

True...there IS that. “Alright. Go for it.”

You practically fall into the thing as you say it, and soon you’re moving at that slow pace with minimal sense of the outside…

...it’s actually kinda disturbing. Wonder if this is what Prima feels whenever she goes in the bag…

>Roll 1d20.
>>
Rolled 16 (1d20)

>>4405501
>>
Rolled 11 (1d20)

>>4405501
>>
Rolled 8 (1d20)

>>4405501
>>
Rolled 14 (1d20)

>>4405501
>>
Aaaand writing.
>>
Rolled 9, 7, 9 = 25 (3d10)

>>4405501
It’s slow, and more than once it involves stopping and starting and hiding, you think, in someone’s shadow until they make it elsewhere where you can move. And yeah, it’s all kinda particularly weird, you have to say. Nonetheless, you’re more or less coughed up well outside the city gates, your eyes readjusting to sunlight instead of pure void. “Well! That was a trip, but all worked out, I’d say!”

“Yeah, mostly,” you admit. “Now to find that pathway so we can get that damn Lockstone.”

“Oh riiight! You’re in luck! You might not’ve heard much in there, but IIIII did!” he crows. “Seems like the Lockstone shouldn’t be horribly far, either; sounded like the trip can be made in less than a day; overheard one of the guards talking about her friend getting back by dinner, ‘after guarding the entrance for so long.’” Hm. Yeah, that’s at least useful. Lets you know when you’re far enough.

“Then we should be on our way,” you motion as you continue up the slope. Ideally, your journey won’t be but for a couple of hours...and truthfully, considering the nature of a mountain, there’s only so many outside paths that can be had, right? You’ll just have to be cautious…

Indeed, not too much later, you notice that the ‘road’ technically splits- although it keeps going to the right, there’s a clear leftwards path that, initially, seems untraversable unless you could fly or were an excellent rock climber...but there’s a clear cavern that the outcropping leads into, and juuust enough room for someone to sidle along the edge. Not that you need to do that- a long jump clears the gap just fine.

It’s not much later, clambering up and across rock and vine and traveling through some clearly man-made paths that you notice that there’s a number of beasts and monsters that live here regardless- nothing remotely dangerous to you, you think. Insect things, a few fox-ish knockoffs, some weird toothy round ball of a creature, the occasional angry ugly bat thing and some others. Scant few of them dare to challenge you- most flee on sight, particularly the bats.

Nonetheless, you realize clearly on the right track when you start seeing muddy, yet drying, footprints. Jackpot.

Roll another 1d20. My rolls are not opposed.
>>
Rolled 11 (1d20)

>>4405600
Hmm.
>>
Rolled 17 (1d20)

>>4405600
>>
Rolled 9 (1d20)

>>4405600
>>
Rolled 13 (1d20)

>>4405600
>>
>>4405600
Shall we prep the Z1 for messing with this fortress while the forces of good are unprepared?
>>
Neat. Writing!
>>
File: Random base map.png (2.31 MB, 2477x1731)
2.31 MB
2.31 MB PNG
I might have a game plan for this. Fake a state of emergency.

>Frantically shout that minions of the SK are assaulting the base for the stone and demand entry.
>Cue Gartoum hamming it up to confirm the "attack". The currently rising monster aggression should give the assault more credibility.
>Any normal guards would have let us in on impulse by now. Bonus if Gart's presence draws more guards from inside the base out.
>While G is distracting/killing them, take advantage of our high intimidation to get the remainder to take us to the stone (excuses include just wanting to check on the state of the stone, or wanting to setup for an emergency portal spell,...)
>Chances are there will be a bigshot next to/on the way to the stone who can see through our masquerade. If that happens, pop a Flux Wave and kill them first.
>Pocket the stone and clean up, loot and burn the base. No evidences or witnesses.

We can just walk right in and start the show, but this will definitely catch them off guard.
>>
>>4405623
Better we see the place first.
>>
>>4405623
"...minions of the SK..." this is too true for a bluff
"...draws more guards from inside the base out." Why would they go outside, they've got perfectly good walls here.
"...take us to the stone" I dislike intimidation as a tactic, it rarely works and I don't understand it when it does.
"...If that happens, pop a Flux Wave and kill them first." Why not open with this, it's got a good range, and it stops any messenger birds or sending spells being sent for reinforcements.
>>
>>4405600
>>4405603
>>4405604
>>4405605
You sense them before they see you, fortunately; as the footsteps get fresher, you take care to step quieter, and let the natural sounds of the caverns, dripping from melted snow and echoing with the sounds of creatures, do their best to mask your noise. You finally reach an archway, again, too smooth to be natural, and post up against it on the near side. The far side you can just see through, and it leads to a large, circular open area (as open as inside a mountain gets, anyway). On the other side of the wall, but the same side as you? Three individuals, all with a smell of pungent, perhaps rotted meat. Perfectly doable, though not individuals to take too lightly. They’re just...standing there. No movement. Guards.

Hm...what to do…?

“I don’t like this,” one of them says unbidden, and loud enough to head.

“What’s wrong?” a lighter, slightly more gravelly voice asks.

“She means s’too much ruckus,” a third says tensely. “Monsters are extra restless today. Not had a single curious beast we’ve had to beat back. They’re all elsewhere. Not a good sign.”

“But...isn’t that a good thing?” the second asks.

“No,” the first replies. “Cause that means somethin’ shook ‘em out of the usual routine. And THAT means either A: something’s strong enough to have killed ‘em...”

“Or B: something’s strong enough to make them RUN,” the other finishes. “I don’t like this. Stay wary, Alaia.”

...smart cookies, you’ll give ‘em that. Still, now. What to do…?

>Just go in and start blasting. You’ve got the element of surprise, why not?
>(Intimidate) You might be able to scare them into letting you through for an easier time of it…
>Maybe you could... (Other)
>>
>>4405623
>>4405646
Want to give this a try. Who knows it might actually effin work.
>>
>>4405654
They know the monsters are hiding instead of roaming
>>
>>4405646
We can make Gartoum as that "scary something"
>Use Gart as a distraction
>While he distracts them we can kill them from a distance with the wonderland rifle or just straight up get close with the draining knife
Those guards probably have magic shields on them
>>
>>4405646
>Just go in and start blasting. You’ve got the element of surprise, why not?
>>
>>4405656
Yeah, from Gartoum. Who looks the part of that scary something.
>>
>>4405659
Actually while Gart distracts, we activate flux wave.
>>
>>4405646
>Send Gartoum in first to bait them
>Ambush them with Flux Bubble
Or jump in with Flux Wave
>>
>>4405646
Oh my, rotted meat, these are pretty strong for humans.
>Just go in and start blasting. You’ve got the element of surprise, why not?
>I think Energy Channel and melee sounds good.
>>
>>4405646
I agree that we should let Gart be a distraction.
BUT please don't waste a Flux Wave on these 3 scrubs. Just geek the mage when they're occupied and we can easily sweep this encounter.
>>
>>4405693
They're not exactly scrubs, judging by their smell.
>>
>>4405693
>Smells like rotting meat
>Scrubs
Nah, flux the fuckers. I don't like wasting time on them.
>>
>>4405693
We've just started and you're already complaining about using mana
>>
>>4405693
My vote's for fluxing em'. We have plenty of mana left and a good FW will instantly end this.
>>
Just remember to equip mana condenser once we get out of here, should double our mana regen. Then we'll have a couple of days to refill while looking for other stones.
>>
>>4405693
They are guards, do they even have a mage to geek?
I say we energy channel and just beat them down, throw in some ranged abilities if they try to retreat. If we beat them down non-lethally we can even test out that healing field on them.
>>
i wonder if this is the heroe's party.
>>
I'll continue tomorrow, but it seems like the vote is for Flux Wave now? I usually go by arrows, but it seems more discussion, so I'm not certain what's a vote perse and what isn't.
>>
>>4405728
It seems more votes are calling for Gartoum to be a distraction/boogeyman while we blindside them with a Flux? Correct me if I'm wrong.

I want to add in trying to down one of them from behind too because FW shouldn't take that much time to cast. Better to just permanently take care of one target while they're focusing on Gartoum and then flux the others.
>>
>>4405731
I think summoning Gartoum will lose us the element of surprise, but I think there are 3+ votes for Gartoum? I'm the odd one out.
>>
>>4405646
>Just go in and start blasting. You’ve got the element of surprise, why not?
Opening with a flux wave.
>>
File: so anyway.jpg (25 KB, 680x384)
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25 KB JPG
>>4405728
>>4405731
Yup, you got it right.
>>
>>4405731
I sure hope Gartoum is down to get fluxed.
This will be a most unique and unpleasant experience for him, so he should LOVE it right?
>>
>>4406502
That's why I was voting for directed version
>>
>>4406502
we can tell him before hand and tell him to duck or get to the ceiling once Miranda is at the back or something.
We do what >>4405731 says.
>>
>>4406502
>>4406507
>>4406581
Can signal him to go intangible and dive under the ground or something. Pretty sure FW doesn't penetrate that far.
>>
Okay, yeah, it seems like it's 'Gartoum distracts', pop Flux Wave.

Wrrrriting.
>>
>>4406697
Don't forget "tell Gart to dodge or get out of the way of our attack"
>>
>>4405646

An idea comes to you. A risky one, but an idea. “Alright, Gartoum, got a plan. Might be a bit dangerous for you, though…” He doesn’t respond immediately at your mental suggestion, but you kinda wish you could sense what he feels about it. “I want you to go in as a distraction- be that ‘scary something’ they were talking about. After that, though, I’m launching a Flux Wave, so you might want to clear out asap. Ideally, get low or high so it has less chance of hitting you.”

“Oooh dear, that doesn’t sound pleasant,” he admits with an audible grimace. “I’ve SEEN what that does to magical-types like myself…eeeh, but needs must, I suppose. Just...don’t expect a great deal out of me afterwards, hm? Very well.”

Huh. First time he’s really been reluctant to take an order, you think. Still, at least he’s doing it.

And Gartoum indeed does, slithering into the room with a black shadow and ominous laugh…

“What the...shoot! This might be it!” You can hear movement as he rises up from the floor, his screech echoing off the walls of the cavern. “Protect the barrier with your lives!” In the meantime, you start cylicing through numbers...still not the best, but it’ll work for now...

>Roll 3d20, best of three.
>>
Rolled 16, 4, 5 = 25 (3d20)

>>4406762
>>
Rolled 7, 12, 12 = 31 (3d20)

>>4406762
>>
Rolled 8, 2, 4 = 14 (3d20)

>>4406762
Oh fuck here it goes
>>
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>>4406768
Fucking dice
>>
Well, at least they aren't low rolls. All of them are affected.

Time to test out the Morph-Blade. A fitting weapon for a high intimidation run.
>>
Well it isn't bad. Not perfect, but no passable. Hopefully we can at least knock one down.
>>
16, 12, 12.


Flavor: Royal Lockstone Barrier Guard Duty (Informally called Barrier Duty, or, more disparagingly, Doorstop Duty) is a post exclusively reserved for lady magi of the Elertian Guard out of old tradition. It's usually relatively quiet, with the worst the guards having to do is shoo away curious beasts. Lately, it's been getting more serious as the monsters are getting much more aggressive, thus necessitating more competent guardswomen to take up the duty.
>>
Whoever is still conscious will get the horrible sword slice to their neck.

>“Protect the barrier with your lives!”
either we use the draining knife to cut it open or use the condenser suck out the mana.
>>
>>4406780
Don't need to aim for the mage if all of them are mages eh? Ready the dagger.
>>
Poor gals.

But hey, decent enchanted loot!
>>
>>4406786
With any luck, the FW will brick the barrier too. It has done that before.
>>
>>4406762
>>4406766
>>4406767
>>4406768
You’re quick to leap out before anything gets too rambunctious, though you already see a single spell fired off as you make your entrance, which Gartoum swivels around, and delivers his own dark slash back to; it impacts flush, but you can see a glow of some shield-like magic flare up as she’s thrown back. The other two dodge to create space, and one of them; the tallest and framed by a head of fiery hair underneath a helmet, manages to fire off a red bolt of energy- it misses entirely, screaming past his head, and the third is trying to start up some kind of chant…

But, you’re not willing to let that happen. The moment you land is the moment Gartoum stretches his body up, up, up- the bottom half snaps up as he hits the ceiling, and as your own Flux Wave rips through the space he was just in in a multicolored sea of mana that slams against the magic barriers they have thrown up- you can SEE the spheres of mana surrounding them practically ‘pop’, as two of them recoil badly and take a knee, blinking in confusion and disorientation. The third is just now recovering, further away, but still not very hurt as she tries gamely to stand up.

On impact, the wall behind them- now clearly a massive stone double door, with various engravings on it- seems to shimmer, its barrier indeed shining to life, and practically wobbling, like a thin bubble film…

>Current Mana: >Current Mana: 8800/11000

>Action!
>>
>>4406802
Magical creatures don't fare much better against FW, in wild west we popped a FW and it knocked out the pygmy shamans handily.
>>
>>4406804
Their shields' down then.

>Draining Knife out, aim for the third. Make it fast and lethal.
>>
>>4406804
Blast the third person and slashthe necks of the two people on their knees with the draining knife.
The faster we finish this the more time we can get the lockstone and get away
>>
>>4406804
>Activate Assault Shard and Energy Channel
>Get your Morph-Blade, shape it as warhammer and strike the disoriented ones first
they're armored up, so slashing them is not an option
>>
>>4406804
Well if they're kneeling at kicking height it'd be rude of us to not take advantage of it, but how can we kick both of them at the same time...
Can we jump on them? I imagine if we jump off them hard enough, they'll get KOd from it.
We could use mana tether to get the third mage with a shock touch
>>
>>4406804
>>4406816
+
I want an overkill for this one, since there are only 3 guards in here.
>>
>>4406818
>Mana tether
Oh yeah, we can grab the third person and kick the other two with our knee.
>>
>>4406818
Let's do this then.
>>
>>4406804
>>4406818
I'll switch to this, but PLEASE use the Assault Crystal
>>
>>4406804
Okay changing my vote >>4406813 to:
>kick the two people kneeling
>use Mana tether to drag the third person to us
>If possible, use the morph blade to kill them all quickly
>>
>>4406818
No need to shock, just drag her in like how Scorpion does. Can the crystals be recharged? No reason not to use the assault one too.
>>
>>4406827
But if we lethal them, we can't use them as guinea pigs for Owlia's stuff.
Though maybe that's too unethical, yea, let's just lethal them, we can at least not torture these folks with our R&D, we'll chase down a bunny or something, and use the Z1 on the next patrol we find.
>>
I also realized that the SHADOW King has hired an agent that has light and flashy magic.
Bet that'll shock the opposition.
>>
>>4406830
We can use the Z1 on an army later, because it's experimental and fragile. It would be for the best to use it on a wide target rich environment for better recording.
>>
Assault Crystal, punt, drag in? Right, then. They're all stunned, so...

Writing.
>>
>>4406828
Why drag her to us, when we can drag us to her! Let's pull ourselves to her while doing a Tatsumaki Senpukyaku (ryu's tornado kick thing)
>>
>>4406835
It's fragility might be highly over-stated. They took entire clips of bullets back in skyworld.
>>
>>4406838
But that's X4 not Z1...
>>
>>4406836
Easy take down.

>>4406831
Dragons are broken.
>>
>>4406841
I said might
>>
I just realized this is the classic first encounter with the BBEG right hand. The one were people het a scripted defeat and usually followed by a mentor figure making a sacrifice for the hero and sidekick to survive.
>>
>>4406862
I don't really like categorizing events and trying to frame everything into tropes. Call me a square, but these 'hero' jokes are getting really stale.
>>
>>4406804
They’re stunned and helpless to you. No chance. Still, just to be absolutely safe…

The glow of the Assault crystal fills you with power, and in a flash you’re over by the side of the two girls still standing. The alignment is just right so that when you rear back and slam into them with your boot, you connect with the tall one, then the one that was trying to get off a spell- you can hear both of their skulls crack, and they’re both sent flying into the cavern wall, near the third, who screams in shock at the crumpled bodies of her fellows. You stretch your hand out, and a thin stretch of sticky mana snakes forth, attaching to the girl in a second; the retraction causes her to yell in shock, and she’s delivered right to your hand in the next. She, already weakened from the flux wave, doesn’t make much effort to struggle...instead, she merely glares at you...you’ve no doubt she’d love some last words of some kind.

She doesn’t get the chance.

After they’ve all fallen, you look up to see the shadow drip down, and lethargically slorp back to your ring. “Dear, dear...might not have been aimed for me, but I certainly felt that, regardless...think I need a little nap…” Huh. So he wasn’t kidding. Well, that’s something to remember for in the future. As for now, however…

The door stands before you, unguarded save for a magical barrier.

>Current Mana: >Current Mana: 8800/11000

>Try Flux Wave again. Will be annoying, but couldn’t hurt...well, aside from your mana count.
>Search the girls. They might’ve had something worthwhile on them.
>Maybe you can drain this thing... or smash through it.
>Other
>>
>>4406877
>Search the girls. They might’ve had something worthwhile on them.
That was clean.
>>
>>4406877
>Search the girls. They might’ve had something worthwhile on them.
Oh sweet, loot!

and if we can't get anything useful from them:
>Maybe you can drain this thing with the draining knife
>>
>>4406877
>Search the girls. They might’ve had something worthwhile on them.
>>
>>4406877
>Search the girls. They might’ve had something worthwhile on them.
>>
>>4406877
>Search the girls. They might’ve had something worthwhile on them.
>>
>>4406877
>Search the girls. They might’ve had something worthwhile on them.
>Maybe you can drain this thing... or smash through it.
>Use Mana Condenser and Draining Knife
We did something like that before, back in the mafia job when the mob boss hunkered down in his bunker.
>>
...Pretty one sided.

>>4406880
>>4406882
>>4406886
>>4406887
>>4406889
>>4406890
3d10, best of 3, then.
>>
Rolled 3, 1, 5 = 9 (3d10)

>>4406903
>>
Rolled 4, 8, 9 = 21 (3d10)

>>4406903
>>
Rolled 3 (1d10)

>>4406903
Ere'
>>
Rolled 9, 2, 10 = 21 (3d10)

>>4406909
Damn it wrong dices
>>
Woo! We got something.
>>
9, 8, 10. Well well.

Writing.
>>
>9,8,10
Oh yeah good loot!
>>
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>>
>>4406877
>>4406903
>>4406905
>>4406906
>>4406915
Might as well take a looksee just in case they had anything worthwhile…

...ah, and they very much do. Aside from what you can guess is money- several denominations in small and big copper coins and small and big silver coins, there’s at least one of them that has an interesting sash of some kind. It’s got a faint power in it, you think, but you’ll have to check it later. The two other girls both have strange, small statues. One of them seemingly carved out of green crystal, in the shape of a...admittedly somewhat rotund and curly haired fairy. The other one is much slimmer and spiky haired, and is carved from red stone. On the tall girl’s body, however, is something more interesting to you personally- a small medallion. It’s not like the money you picked up; rather, it has a symbol on it that seems like a...burst? Stylized explosion? You’re not sure. Either way, it also radiates a faint power, though what kind you’re not sure- you don’t feel anything in particular channeling your mana, so...experiments for later.

>Acquired 50 small copper coins, 13 large copper coins, 10 small silver coins, and 7 large silver coins!

>Acquired strange green fairy statue!
>Acquired strange red fairy statue!
>Acquired strange medallion!

Good stuff- wait. There’s something else in the leader’s pack. A small orb, about the side of a baseball, maybe a bit bigger. It...seems like it’s just glass, at first blush. You can’t feel anything coming off of it at all.

>Take the orb? Yes/No

Well, either way, you need to figure out what to do about this barrier…

>Might as well try Flux Wave.
>Maybe Flux Bubble would work here, actually?
>Hopefully the Draining Knife can cut you a hole…
>Other
>>
>>4406932
>Take the orb? Yes
>>Other
>Try Mana Condenser first
>Hopefully the Draining Knife can cut you a hole…
>>
>>4406932
>Take the orb
>Maybe Flux Bubble would work here, actually?

I know a Macguffin when I see one.
>>
>>4406932
>Yes, take the orb
We'll scan it with the FutureSight later.
>Use the draining knife and cut a hole
>>
>>4406932
>Take the orb? Yes
>Mana Condenser and Draining Knife.
>>
silly Handler! We're role-playing as a greedy dragon girl here, why would we not get shiny important looking things?
>>
>>4406932
>Take the orb
>Hopefully the Draining Knife can cut you a hole…
>>
>>4406932
>Yes
>Hopefully the Draining Knife can cut you a hole…
In the magic, not the door. don't want to dull it too bad.
>>
Rolled 13 (1d20)

Righto. Another roll, this time the usual 1d20. My roll isn't opposed.
>>
Rolled 11 (1d20)

>>4406971
>>
Rolled 4 (1d20)

>>4406971
>>
Rolled 14 (1d20)

>>4406971
>>
>>4406975
Ah... my rolls are cursed
>>
Saves Mana. Time, not so much.

Writing!
>>
>>4406932
>>4406935
>>4406936
>>4406938
>>4406939
>>4406947
>>4406967
>>4406973
>>4406975
>>4406977

Might as well take the orb. Never know, and can scan it, too. Now, back to the important business...

Using another flux wave so soon without any residual mana built up? Not the best idea for mana conversation. On the OTHER hand, you DO have a new weapon that might be able to aid in that issue. The draining knife, depending on how much mana it can soak in, might just be the trick, you think. Provided it works as advertised, at least…

Giving it a couple of test slashes, you swing the thing at the wall- and as expected, it hits the barrier- the thing now shining brightly as it tries to repel the attack. It’s like cutting into something thick but viscous, causing even you to have to exert some serious effort in making a mark. Dragging it diagonally, you notice that it’s kind of...opening things up, and you can SEE a gaping hole in the magic where you cut…

...at least for the next couple of seconds, when suddenly the knife shines brightly. Ah. That’s that ‘extra cutting power’ thing he was talking about. Not that it feels like it from your perspective. In fact, it seems like it’s actually going SLOWER, and you can see the hole in the barrier sluggishly repairing itself. Great. The only real positive is that you can push it anyway, and the mana seems to sort of...stretch? Around the knife. Kind of like (and probably is) overflow. Since it can’t suck it up, but it can’t stay in the same place, it’s getting pushed around…maybe you can still work with this.

It takes several minutes longer than you’d prefer, cutting, absorbing, and essentially pushing the mana around, but eventually you manage to make a decent sized hole in the barrier- and waste no time in blasting through the thankfully ordinary stone doors behind it. Finally, you can get to this damn…

...inner cavern where there is no Lockstone immediately in view.

“Damnit!” you swear, even as the pin on your cloak pulses. Wait, what? You check again. It’s definitely pulsing, when it didn’t do that before. Or at least, YOU feel like it’s pulsing. Hm...

(cont.)
>>
>>4407033
Sure enough, you continue forward, climbing over more rocks, avoiding icy underground lakes, and jumping crevasses as the pulsing gets more frequent. This area’s less full of monsters, obviously, and has a clear path...but from a sheer traversal point of view, it’s much more dangerous. That said...there ARE some beasts- a massive (yet smaller than your steed) worm creature that you run off, and insectoid things that remind you of pillbugs. However, when you finally reach a long hallway, lined with torches, you can’t help but grin. Finally.

You step into the large chamber, stone and curiously similar to the one you arrived here in. The difference, however, is that this one is lined with white torches, cold and bright. A small light shines down from a gap high above, allowing small snowflakes to drift down into the center of the room- wherever it is you are, you can see the sky, even if only a pinprick. But that’s not important right now. In the center of it...is a single floating stone, shaped like a MASSIVE, black, upside down pyramid, with a golden chain attached to it and holding it down. The thing’s twice as big as YOU. How the heck are you going to-

‘Ahhhhh…’ oh, speak of the devil. ‘At last. One of these accursed Lockstones…be not intimidated by its size. The important factor is the chain that binds it. Break it!’ Ah. Well, then…

Thinking quickly, your knife cuts and slashes- and fortunately, it DOES seem to be doing the trick, if in a few cuts. The magic the chain has is gradually siphoned away, and the gouges deeper- until one more cut snaps the thing entirely, and it’s left floating in the air. ‘Now, reach for it, and claim it in my name!’

...right, sure. But as you do, you notice a dark light emitting from it, and for a moment you’re worried- before there’s a flash of light, and when you recover, you see the stone, far smaller. You reach out and take the thing, finding it able to fit in your palm, but still black as void. Excellent. ‘Ahahaha! Yes, YES! Now, you need merely call your steed and abscond. A most auspicious start, my agent!’

>You’d rather not do something so high profile. You can get back through the caverns without being seen...you hope.
>Yeah, that’s probably the quickest way to get out of here, and speed is of the essence...also it’ll be a nice threatening image.
>Other
>>
>>4407041
>>You’d rather not do something so high profile. You can get back through the caverns without being seen...you hope.
>>
>>4407041
>You’d rather not do something so high profile. You can get back through the caverns without being seen...you hope.
No dramatic entrances yet, we'll do that for the next lockstone.
>>
>>4407041
>You’d rather not do something so high profile. You can get back through the caverns without being seen...you hope.
>Ask SK what stone should we take next.
They might have siege/anti-air spells...
>>
>>4407044
*Exits
Goddamnit.
>>
>>4407041
>You’d rather not do something so high profile. You can get back through the caverns without being seen...you hope.
>>
>>4407045
>They might have siege/anti-air spells...
This, and we should try to research about the magic, weapons and history before going ham on towns or cities.
>>
>>4407041
>You’d rather not do something so high profile. You can get back through the caverns without being seen...you hope.
>>
I'm regretting that we didn't take the vanishing plate. It would be great for escaping and hiding.
>>
>>4407041
>>4407043
>>4407044
>>4407045
>>4407048
>>4407053
“Not yet,” you mutter. “Don’t need anything so high profile. I’ll make my way back through the caves just fine.”

‘So you say...” the voice grumbles in clear protest, but falls silent otherwise. With that, you pocket the Lockstone- even just holding it you can admit it’s got a fair bit of power stored away. With that, you begin to make your way back through the caverns, stepping quickly, but lightly where you can. It’s not very long, however, before you can hear footsteps- heavy ones, and multiple. Had they sensed it already? That was damn quick. But if you’re going to remain unknown, you’re going to have to hide. And with Gartoum out for the count, it’ll have to be the old-fashioned way.

You were never great at stealth, but hopefully you could prove the odds wrong…

>Roll 1d20, best of three.
>>
Rolled 3 (1d20)

>>4407061
Don't tempt fate girl.
>>
Rolled 17 (1d20)

>>4407061
>>
Rolled 14 (1d20)

>>4407061
Uh oh. Guess saving mana was the right call, now we can fire another flux
>>
Huh. 17.

Howsabout that.

Writing.
>>
>>4407065
Oh yes, we managed to not get caught.
>>
>>4407070
Miranda is evolving!
>>
>>4407065
>>4407070
Oh maybe we can cave in the heroes from behind, that's a classic.
>>
>>4407079
We can? If so I'm all for this. Should only take a charged magiblast.
>>
>>4407079
>>4407083
I had the same idea, but it might not work out - people here have elemental magic, an earth mage or two could prevent our attempts of blocking them. The cultist from the last job have managed to evacuate an entire cell through tunnels and hide them.
>>
>>4407061
>>4407062
>>4407065
>>4407067
You have to move not just carefully, but quietly, as the footsteps increase in volume. It’s near a more open area where you realize it’s now or never, and you’re quick to find a small crevice on an outcropping of rock that’s just large enough to hide you from sight on one side… you jump up there and shuffle yourself in just as the footsteps break into the room. It’s cramped, it’s dirty...but a legion of a solid dozen mage girls and a similar number of swordsmen race past, the lot of them armed with staves, staffs, and broadswords. You hardly get a good look at the lot of them by the time they’re gone, but you wait until you can’t hear their steps anymore before you bother to extricate yourself.

Interesting. How’d they get past the barrier, then…?

The answer comes as you make it back to the entrance. The doors are open outright, the hole you punched through in the rockface obvious on one of them. That said...there’s no one there that indicates they opened it for that group. So what did it? A quick check around said doors doesn’t reveal anything new happening to them, either…bah, no time. You need to get out of here.

>Wait until you’re completely outside before calling your mount. Don’t want it to have to wait.
>Might as well call it down now so it can be ready. There was a spot not too far that opened to a small cliff...
>Other


Man, these are some small updates...
>>
>>4407087
>Cause a cave-in
>Might as well call it down now so it can be ready. There was a spot not too far that opened to a small cliff...
>>
>>4407091
hmmm maybe instead of creating cave-in now, we'll throw a couple of moleworm mines and c4 instead? to guarantee the damage
>>
>>4407087
What >>4407091said.
yeah trap them inside! They won't catch us if we block the way.
>>
>>4407091
>>4407093
Make the cave-in AND THEN drop a couple of moleworm mines just a distance further to shock them and make them pause.
>>
>>4407087
>set up moleworm mines and c4 so they'd get trapped on the way out
>>Might as well call it down now so it can be ready. There was a spot not too far that opened to a small cliff...
they'll just clear the blockage with their magic if we do it now.
>>
>>4407099
They don't hand out expert earthbenders like candies anon. If they have earth mages, they'll still waste time breaking through the cave-in. Not to worry, we're almost out.
>>
>>4407087
>Might as well call it down now so it can be ready. There was a spot not too far that opened to a small cliff...
>Set up the mines and cause a cave-in
>>
>>4407099
Well they'll have to waste time trying to clear the blockage.
So,
>plant 3 Moleworm mines, one on the left, center and right side
>Cause a cave-in
>Then leave with the bat mount
>>
Wait, just to clarify before I start: cause the cave-in otherwise THEN drop the mines, or use the mines TO cause a cave-in?
>>
>>4407106
The mines can be detonated remotely right?

>Drop the mines.
>Run and then detonate them to cause a cave-in.

This should give us a head start.
>>
>>4407100
>>4407103
I just want to catch and get rid of as many as possible, not just slow them down and get only tree or two
>>
Yes, but not like halfway across the world.
>>
>>4407087
>Might as well call it down now so it can be ready. There was a spot not too far that opened to a small cliff...
>Leave mines to make a cave in.
>>
>>4407106
>use the mines TO cause a cave-in
I want this, more people to catch off-guard
>>
>>4407106
>>4407108
>>4407110
Do this then. We still get a good distance in.
>>
>>4407108
why should we detonate them ourselves? that doesn't maximize the damage
>>
>>4407114
Well there's the chance that they get lucky and spot the mines before they blow, and then we have to deal with advanced tech falling into enemy hands, which we chewed another outgoer out over, that'd be shameful.
>>
>>4407108
anon, this is the least efficient way to use mines
>>
>>4407114
>>4407116
Aren't we doing this to get away? I'm not waiting for that legion to come close enough so they can somehow pull something. Killing is not priority, and they can't catch us if we run and then do the cave-in.
>>
>>4407115
admittedly, that's highly unlikely
>>
>>4407106
>>4407118
alright, but then let's go with>>4407103 instead
>cause the cave-in THEN drop the mines
let's do both
>>
>>4407115
>>4407119
come on, anon. that scenario is too far fetched
>>
Writing! I'm just going with dropping the mines to be triggered later.
>>
>>4407126
sorry for causing inconvenience
>>
>>4407087
“Alright, uh...damnit, I dunno what to call you right now, but I need you down here! If you can sense where I am, just be waiting at the nearest open area- I’ll be there!” You’re not sure if it heard or understood or what, but you hope it did.

In the meantime, however, you get an idea. Something to keep those forces from reporting in sooner than later. Checking the size of the doors and estimating your explosive yield, you quickly fire off a set of Moleworm mines near the top and sides of the doorway. Ideally, if they’re breached, it’ll set off a lovely chain reaction that’ll bring the whole damn thing down on top of them…

It DID use half of your mines to ensure effectiveness, though. The doorway IS pretty large.

>Moleworm mines left: 5

With that, you take off towards that little outcropping. Should be right past those two big pools of stagnant water, you think...

You hear the screech as you arrive at the location- blessedly, it seems like nothing’s hurt him, although it’s clear that it’s agitated. “Don’t worry, we’re outta here!” you say as you hop on immediately. As you grab hold tight and clack your heels out of instinct, it lets out a massive screech- not like you could’ve stopped it at this point, and takes off. You can’t help but look back and behind just to make sure. No explosion goes off yet- they’re likely still on their way back- but you DO see a group of soldiers standing in the distance, on the path back down. You can’t see their faces clearly, but you CAN see them looking up at you, and many panicking. At this point, however...it’s too far to do much of anything about, and you’ve got more important things to do than mess around with those soldiers.

Alright, then… “Where to next?” you ask the pin, and your employer.

‘I care not, so long as they are brought to me in due time,’ he scoffs. ‘However...with this new influx of power, I can sense a stone...far to the south, somewhere amidst the dunes. Again, that is the extent of what I can detect.’ Right, then… ‘Be wary. I’ve no doubt that now that one of their precious Lockstones is taken, it will be noticed. They will fight back.’

Hm. Good to know. Now then...location.

>East, towards Alminia.
>West, towards the other kingdom.
>South, towards ‘the dunes’.

(Done for the night! And so things start in earnest...)
>>
>>4407135
>>West, towards the other kingdom.
Job info said that Alminia is busy with their neighbor Balunda, it'll take some time for them to switch priorities.
>Get your Mana Condenser out
>>
>>4407135
>>4407138
Yeah, what he said.
>>
>>4407135
>Equip Mana Condenser.
>West, towards the other kingdom.

>"Sire, what types of troublesome magic should I watch out for, from each region?"
>"The Fey Folks, do they have weaknesses?"
Get some infodumps in, from the big boss himself.
>>
>>4407135
If our bossman senses another stone, it's probably the least guarded at the moment, I am in favor of yoinking a stone that's ensconced in a city.
>East, towards Alminia.
or
>West, towards the other kingdom.
>>
>>4399412
>Directly ahead of you is a massive stone door with some sort of swirling, spiky symbol embossed on it- the closest thing you could approximate it to is ‘a sun made of smoke’ or something like that.
>>4400990
>The darkness swirls again, and comes together...and a small pin, with that same symbol as the door drops into your hand.
>>4406932
>Acquired strange green fairy statue! - carved out of green crystal, in the shape of a...admittedly somewhat rotund and curly haired fairy.
>Acquired strange red fairy statue! - The other one is much slimmer and spiky haired
>Acquired strange medallion! - it has a symbol on it that seems like a...burst? Stylized explosion?

I assume that the statues depict the Fairy Elders, who wield elemental powers - nature/earth/fertility for the green one and the red one is kinda obvious. I feel like the medallion shows some sort of sunburst, in contrast to our clients shadowy sun - so there might be some sort of organization that opposed our client.
>>
>>4407135
>>4407146
good idea, learn more about the world while traveling
>>
>>4407146
I'll back this.
>>
>>4407134
Eh, tis fine.

--------------------------

>Your highness! I've returned!

>Report, Erol, and speak quickly.

>Yes, ma'am. I'm afraid...it's as we feared the other day. The Lockstone is missing. The three meant to guard the barrier are...dead, ma'am. And the chain binding the Lockstone has been destroyed. Severed.

>...how?

>There was no indication of who nor how, madam. Worse, when the response force made to exit the caverns, some sort of...delayed explosive magic was activated at the doorway. They collapsed the entrance, sealing the forces in.

>Delayed explosive magic...? Have they been rescued?!

>We're working at it now. Earth magic specialists have been called in, and it is estimated recovery shouldn't take much longer, relatively. Fortunately, no fatalities from that, thanks to protective shield magic, although there have been some injuries that it will take advanced healers to cure. The explosions were powerful, but they clearly intended it as a delaying tactic, not strictly a murderous one.

>A limited comfort...especially considering the three that fell in the line of duty. I will send word to the other kingdoms of this threat. We will prepare restitution for the families of the fallen, and honor them by exterminating this threat. We cannot let this stand, lest our world is at risk!

>Agreed, madam. I'll make the necessary arrangements. Oh! I was also informed that the culprit had a mount- a vicious looking beast with wings, fur, and a countenance much like a...I believe he described it as 'a massive, extra-vicious looking Dusk Ravager Bat'.

>We will send the warning. Now, to your duties, Chamberlain.

>Aye, madam. At once.

>Ah, and send for Lili. I must discuss her training regime with her. Presuming she's not run off again...
>>
(Also, I think I forgot to mention but hopefully implied it: starting with this new job, I should warn that there will be no more milk/easy runs or the sort. I won't cheat to stack the deck, mind. Just keep using your smarts, don't stress or overthink, and you'll be fine.)
>>
>>4407158
>shield magic is commonplace here
let's hope it's what only this northern kingdom specializes in, we haven't encountered guns or tougher folks like orcs yet.
>>
>>4407175
We've got to get some anti-shield weapons here. Plus, I thinks it's important now to get some allies because as strong as Miranda is, we're up against almost everyone in this world and she's not invincible. Maybe get some dark magic mages/cultists and maybe try to get the orcs as allies
>>
>>4407186
>We've got to get some anti-shield weapons here.
That's one use for the local currency we've just looted.
>>
>>4407135

“We head west, towards the other kingdom.” You don’t have a name for it, but you figure you’ll learn it sooner than later. The giant bat screeches and turns in the proper direction, and you find your thoughts wandering. You’re gonna need to get something to eat once you land there…

“If you can answer, sire, what types of troublesome magic should I watch out for from each region?" You’d rather know if anyone had any specialities or not.

“Mm...I know little of current day magics...but in the direct of Alminia, I have long felt scores of accursed light magic. It is vexing…I would not be surprised if elsewhere followed the lead of that damnable flora magi, Halibel, I suppose.” Great. So he’s not going to be a reliable source of info about present-day happenings. Lovely. Although...if he doesn’t know about modern-day stuff, then maybe the past?

“Then the Fey Folks, do they have weaknesses?" you offer.

“Ha...those foolish faerie are of elemental soul. It took all of them together to bind the Lord of Darkness, and even that was with aid. Darkness is as always, the one TRUE element that rules above all others...however, opposing elements may work well, also.” Well, that’s something, at least. If there’s a water fairy, you’re good, and you’re pretty sure there’s a plant or grass one, judging from that little statue… “No more of your questions. I must conserve my strength.”

Tch. Well...there goes that. Suppose he DID warn you.

In the meantime, however, you find yourself growing a bit bored after a couple of hours; wherever you’re going is clearly further than where you just were. Although that does beg the question- just HOW are you going to start searching for this thing? You got pretty lucky with that first one, but as for the rest…

Ah. Speaking of rest, you ARE getting a bit hungry. How to resolve that…

>Try to land somewhere inconspicuous...and maybe not too far from a village.
>Well, while you’re soaring above forest, might as well land and forage.
>Other
>>
>>4407265
>Try to land somewhere inconspicuous...and maybe not too far from a village.
If we're gonna try to buy something on the village/town I suggest taking out our gloves since it's +2 intimidation which will decrease our A to B+ which I hope doesn't make the sellers shit themselves when they look at us. Plus we have an advantage of being in range for Gartoum to scout around the area while we research in the library and shop.
>>
>>4408106
We should scan our loot before going to the village
>>
>>4408101
>Try to land somewhere inconspicuous...and maybe not too far from a village.
>Scan our loot.
>>
>>4408101
>>4408106
Might take off the scarf-tail as well
>>
>>4408106
>>4408112
>>4408109
Scarf+gloves and scan loot. Wonder how it feels to unequip them if the transformation is this drastic.
>>
Huh. Okaydokes.

Roll me 1d5 for potential village/town/whatnot. Only taking first TWO, however.
>>
Rolled 5 (1d5)

>>4408127
>>
Rolled 3 (1d5)

>>4408127
Jackpot.
>>
I really want to see if there are shadow mages lurking/cultists lurking around this world and recruit them to us as spies and scouts. I mean surely there is a shadow King Illuminati hiding around here
>>
>>4408133
Gotta look out for shadow-sun symbols
>>
Oh. Well, that works.

Cool, I get to use one of my bigger town setups. Writing!
>>
>>4408133
This is the kingdom where boss had his big battles. There must be some remnants of his cult left. Recruitment will be easy as breathing once we track them down.
>>
>>4408122
No need to take it off we have boss cloak on us we can hide using it.
>>
>>4408159
Anon, refer to this post >>4403821
People are still shaking their boots at us through the cloak.
>>
>>4408101
>>4408106
>>4408109
>>4408111
>>4408112
>>4408122
>>4408131

Ugh, you’d rather not go too far on a growling stomach...maybe you can find somewhere to eat...at least a village or something, huh? “Get a little closer down,” you yell to your mount over the rushing wind. “Need to see if there’s a settlement or something nearby!”

It dives below the clouds, but just below- and that’s still good enough to see what’s around as you pass through forests and hills. There’s a small farm village, you think, that you pass...not really the best option, you think, but good to know of. Hopefully there’s something a bit bigger that you can work with upcoming…

It’s about ten or so more minutes before you see something in the distance that’s much more appealing. A surprisingly big town- you might even call it a city. With the requisite stonework walls and defenses, you can even see a number of larger houses, and a rather large building that you’d hesitate to call a castle- more a tower or an early version of a skyscraper, really. There’s two rivers that run through it at opposite ends, no less. No wonder someone settled here. Perfect.

“Alright, get back a bit, and I need you to land and stay away for a while,” you implore the beast. It...chirrups lowly. You get the vague feeling that it was a whine, but it nonetheless pivots and backtracks a bit, if only so that it’s not spotted landing.

Well, considering your rate of travel, and your usual walking speed...you estimate you’ll make it there on foot in a bit over an hour or so if you’re careful. As your steed flies away, you decide, actually, that it might be best for you to remove a few things, to better appeal to the townsfolk. Nothing hard to throw back on, however- the scarf and gloves should do. It’s a strange feeling, the tail disappearing, and the odd sense of it vanishing as well. Not to mention you can actually SEE your claws retract and become something less sharp and vicious- and closer to normal, perhaps just sharpened nails to the casual observer. Your wings, as well, shrink slightly. Hm. Well, yeah, it’ll do you well in a city proper.

Now, you quickly decide it good to scan your loot- the FutureSight here is in the form of a tablet, but one made of wood, crystal and metal gears. Unusual.

First, let’s see that orb…

(cont.)
>>
>>4408183
>Scanning…

>Induction Orb- Fragile. Sphere conducts and converts mana to high-energy variable mana. Integration with current mana signature is highly possible. Estimated approximately 1000 Mana capacity, discharge is total. Over injection of mana not suggested.

>(Must donate a total of 1000 mana. This increases the potency of one skill when the orb is full. All 1000 mana is discharged upon use.)

Huh. Neat. Moving on, the green statue.

>Statue depicting figure consistent with common fairy depictions. Mana consistent with mana signatures from mana-sensitive natural organic flora emit from this statue.

Okay…so the flame statue...

>Statue depicting figure consistent with common fairy depictions. Mana consistent with mana signatures from mana-sensitive natural high-temperature energy occurrences emit from this statue.

Right, so fire.

And about this medallion…

>Unknown insignia. Limited standard mana signature present. No emission capabilities.

Oh. That’s it? Huh. Oh, wait, you DO have another scarf in here, right. Nearly forgot.

>Enchanted Scarf: Scarf emits limited mana signature consistent with low-energy mana. Automatic limited restorative effect.

So it’s a healing scarf? That’d explain how she tanked that first shot so well. Well, anyway, that’s that...now you just need to find the road and get there.

>1d20, best of three for travel.
>>
Rolled 13 (1d20)

>>4408185
>>
Rolled 14 (1d20)

>>4408185
>>
Rolled 2 (1d20)

>>4408185
>>
>>4408185
Overall, that's some damn fine loot.
>>
>>4408185
Those statues and the scarf might be good magic souvenirs for the kids, although we might need to find something ice or puppetry related for Tami...
>>
Writing.
>>
>>4408196
There is probably a water statue somewhere.
>>
>>4408196
Think it's better to just keep both of them since they're so useful.
>>
>>4408196
actually, if we could find more of these statues, maybe they could help our bots with understanding the magic types they have affinity with. Prima's is electricity and Jago's is Earth, which could be interpreted as 'fire' and 'nature'.
>>
>>4408185
>>4408186
>>4408189
>>4408190
The walk to the road is a bit further than you thought- it’s over a hill or two, actually, but it’s pretty much a straight shot otherwise. As you finally hit the road itself, little more than semi-flattened dirt paths, you notice you’re not the only one travelling on them. It’s not a ton of people, but some is more than none. In particular a group of three individuals on horseback just ahead of you; two men and one woman, that looks as though they’re traveling salesfolk, at first glance. They're reasonably well dressed, but no armor- though you see one with a shortsword and the long-haired girl has a musket-looking gun. Not to mention, their packs are bulging, for sure. They’re talking rather animatedly, too.

>Catch up to them. Might be able to ask a few things.
>Leave them be and continue on in silence.
>>
>>4408210
>Catch up to them. Might be able to ask a few things.
Can't hurt. And this is for testing our reduced intimidation.
>>
>>4408210
>Catch up to them. Might be able to ask a few things.
>>
>>4408210
>Catch up to them. Might be able to ask a few things.
>>
Hopefuly the cloak is big enough to hide our feet.
>>
>>4408210
>>Catch up to them. Might be able to ask a few things.
>>
>>4408210
>>4408215
>>4408216
>>4408217
>>4408219
>>4408223
The walk to the road is a bit further than you thought- it’s over a hill or two, actually, but it’s pretty much a straight shot otherwise. As you finally hit the road itself, little more than semi-flattened dirt paths, you notice you’re not the only one travelling on them. It’s not a ton of people, but some is more than none. In particular a group of three individuals on horseback just ahead of you; two men and one woman, that looks as though they’re traveling salesfolk, at first glance- no armor, though you see one with a shortsword and the long-haired girl has a musket-looking gun, but their packs are bulging, for sure. They’re talking rather animatedly.

>Catch up to them. Might be able to ask a few things.
>Leave them be and continue on in silence.

Hmm. Well, couldn’t hurt to see if you can’t get anything out of them. It’s for that reason that you pick up your pace a bit- the horses are walking at leisure, so they’re clearly in no rush despite the late afternoon hour. As you get closer, you can pick up some of the topic at hand. “...so ya SERIOUSLY think they’re gonna go fer that junk?” the girl admonishes to the man on her left.

“Well, why not?” he returns. “I mean, they’re all fer th’ exotic an’ whatnot, s’posedly.”

“I mean yeah, but mushrooms?” the man on the lady’s left snarks. “You don’t offload those quick enough, you’re outta luck.”

“They’re good shrooms!” he contests. “They kin-”

“Hello?” you decide to interrupt. THAT causes them all to jump and even for the nearby man’s horse to whinny a bit. “Sorry.”

“Skies above, girl!” the woman says after they’ve recovered. “Yer ma’ never toldja to watch how ya come up to people?” her accent, whatever it is, noticeably thickens from what you were just hearing from her. “Near took your head off, I swear…”

“Sorry again,” you offer. “I was just wondering if you wouldn’t mind helping me a bit.”

“Eh?” she raises an eyebrow. “Help with what? We’re no adventurers, and we’re trying to get to Gran Torun before nightfall.” Ah, so that’s what the name of the city is? Good to know. And despite them being wary all three keeping eyes locked on you, they don't seem to be quivering. Still…

>Questions?
>>
>>4408232
Ah, mis-copied the previous post. Sorry.
>>
>>4408232
>"Truth be told, I'm very new in this land and I'm wondering where you can get a map matches the current climate."
>"What's that you're carrying?"
>>
>>4408232
>"You mentioned mushrooms a few seconds ago. Mind if I buy a few off of you?"
Remember, Mewla loves her shrooms.
>>
>>4408238
*map that matches
derp
>>
>>4408232
Ask if they come around and could give us a place were we could find something cheep to eat in town.

Ask if they are locals and if ther eis anything interesting about the city
>>
>>4408232
>ask for a map
>ask for notable locations in the city
>>
>>4408239
Oh yeah buy Shrooms for her
>>
>>4408232
>Tell them that you're new here, could they tell us more about this land?
>Not adventurers? Then what's with the gun?
>Ask more about mushrooms
>>
>>4408232
>Do you know where I could find a map?
>How much would it cost to hire an adventurer from Gran Torun? (to find out how much services cost, we have money but no context for value.)
>>
Seems like we mostly want mushrooms and a map. Writing.
>>
>>4408196
hm, could the fire statue help us with figuring out how to improve our flamethrower technique?
>>
>>4408265
I was figuring we'd give it to Mewla and have her learn how to set fires, but that's also an idea. Maybe see if we can bring the Flamebringer into the picture as well.
>>
>>4408265
I'm curious what they actually do, the future sight just said their mana signatures correlated to flora and high heat. Based on the fact it said the medallion lacked emission capabilities, can we assume these statues can emit heat magic and plant magic? Are they focuses? Are they power multipliers? Will our fire and healing magics be amplified while we hold onto these?
>>
>>4408265
>>4408268
>>4408270
Can always research about them in the local library.
Can't risk it by bringing them to an appraiser, news travels fast and they will be looking for someone with 2 fairy statues.
>>
>>4408275
Well yes, asking people we met on the road what these magical wotsits do out of the blue might be a tad sus.
>>
>>4408232
>>4408238
>>4408239
>>4408245
>>4408248
>>4408257
“Actually, I’m new to the area, you see,” you exclaim, trying to put some formality into your voice. “I’m from quite far off. And you appear to be of a selling sort.”

“That we are,” the mushroom-selling man on her left answers. Now that you get a better look at him, you can see he’s not that old, you’d anticipate just into his young adult years, about his 20s. His short, black hair is well cut, and his smile is that of good cheer, not so much a salesman’s faux friendliness. “Why? Interested in something? We’ve got a lot ‘tween us.”

The priority item is easy to figure on. “A map, if possible. Of the world or of the local area- either would be nice.”

“You been travelin’ just on hearsay and direction?” the man to the right answers in surprise. He’s a bit older, brown haired, with the beginning’s of a goatee on his face. “Gracious, girlie, you’ve quite the luck if that’s the case!” and here he puts on a more familiar smile to you. “Moreso ‘cause it so happens I’ve got a couple maps myself!” He makes to swing his pack around. “Hup...yep, just so happens we did a bit o’ collectin’ around Saberlane- ah, a town renowned for its scholars,” he explains at your blank look. “We’re hopin’ to sell off most of what we gathered up there an’ a few other places asides. Ah, here we are! One map o’ the known world, and one map o’ the Drogan Empire, includin’ Gran Torun. Good quality parchment, too- not easy ta tear or smear!”

And now the important part. “How much?”

“Mm…let’s say for the both of ‘em, about 2 small silvers. Providin’ you’ve got proper coin, that is.” He shrugs. “If not, could let ‘em go for a bit o’ labor. Never was fond of settin’ up stalls and stayin’ in that heat,” he says, more to his friends than you. They huff a bit, but neither denies his offer.

Instead of answering him right away, however, you turn to the other man. “Also...I heard you mentioning mushrooms.”

The man practically glows. “Oho! I DID, in fact!” His smug look towards his compatriots is incredible, and the girl just facepalms. “Some very fine specimens from the far, tropical south that have been carefully cultivated and preserved, and some rarer specimens made by Saberlane scholars planting programs- all of which guaranteed to be of a rather tasty sort on any decent meal!”

“I’d like a few, if you don’t mind.” you offer. “How much?”

He thumbs towards Gran Torun. “Well, considering the variety I’ve got in stock, we’ll have to talk more, later if you like. Can we presume you’re headed to Gran Torun as well?” You nod. “Excellent! Then as a show of good faith, howsabout we offer you a ride there?” Hm. Nice offer. Can't see why you wouldn't take it...

>...and agree to the labor for the free maps.
>...and just pay the map man his coin now.
>Other
>>
>>4408283
>...and just pay the map man his coin now.
No side errants please, at least not one this small.
>>
>>4408283
>...and just pay the map man his coin now
>Decline the offer to go with them
>>
>>4408283
>>...and just pay the map man his coin now.
>>
>>4408283
>...and just pay the map man his coin now.
Damnit, man, Mewla needs her fix!
>>
>>4408283
>...and just pay the map man his coin now.

Although they will probably ask how we get the coins from the other kingdom we already covered that by saying we are a traveller
>>
>>4408283
Oh man, the client is gonna be suspicious if we pay for anything isn't he? We dragon, gotta keep any cash we find.
Well hopefully he's not watching right now. If he is we can just say it's too undignified for us.
>...and just pay the map man his coin now.
>>
>>4408313
We can just say we will get more eventually besides it's just two small silver. I would be against of it was gold coin or something else.
>>
>>4408313
On the positive side, if he makes it a problem and refuses to pay us because of it, at least we can do to him what we did to those Aegis executives.
>>
So we are at Drogan which is rules by Lord and Lady Aurintine.
>>
You guys think we should ask for maps for the other locations? As in more detailed maps? Well except for the town in the north we came from. Or would it be to suspicious
>>
>>4408331
but we're in this mission to get that rank A so we can't get this contract cancelled or failed.
>>
>>4408313
>the client is gonna be suspicious if we pay for anything isn't he?
shedding a few shekels is not a big deal. come on, anon. again with far fetched scenarios?
>>
>>4408342
True enough, but we're dealing with an Aku expy. I expect him to get pissed at a minion and kill them for something beyond the minion's control, like with robot flute guy in season 5.
>>
>>4408313
in exchange for two coins, we get a map, a free ride so we can rest our feet, a free pass into the city without being questioned or other hindrances, and they'll be our guides into this world too.
>>4408357
except he barely has any power and can only sense things and grumble
>>
Back, writing, sorry, had to take a call.
>>
>>4408358
I just hope we don't dangle our feet or that the cape is long enough to cover our obviously clawed scally feet.
>>
>>4408358
Fair nuff. Just have to be careful when he gets the rest of his power back...
>>
>>4408358
actually, two maps
>>
File: Ah-Rul grinning.png (479 KB, 1017x765)
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>>4408363
>"This is all I can detect for now. YOU, agent, must search of them yourself beyond that. And for that purpose, some subterfuge may be required...” Almost before he finishes saying such, the inky darkness swirles, coalesces…and a cloak, long, and dark violet, forms from the shadow. “Here. Through my magics, none shall sense your true being unless desired, save, perhaps, for those with affinity to the -light-” he chokes out, “-the cowards. Have you any other questions? If not, then you shall begin at once!”

Our cloak is magical, it should mask our entire body as long as we wear it.

>>4408366
I'll laugh if our boss is actually a swell guy and always offer assistances when it is asked.
>>
>>4408283
>>4408286
>>4408287
>>4408289
>>4408292
>>4408303
>>4408313
The man takes his coin gratefully, and you hop onto the back of the horse with the mushroom seller’s help. “Name’s Bale. Pleased to meetcha!”

“I’m Levinth,” the map-man supplies.

“And I’m Cait,” the girl greets. “Now then, let’s get back goin’! Hup!” With a clack of her heels, and reins, the four of you continue on to Gran Torun.

It’s a few more minutes before Bale speaks back up. “So, wanderer off to Gran Torun, are ya? Can’t say it’s not a good stop. ‘The City of Traders’, it’s called, if ya didn’t know. Anything you want, you can find there. S’where smart folk can make their fortunes, and strong folk earn a decent livin’. Always a caravan or somethin’ leaving, always someone needin’ protection, that sorta thing.”

“Leastways it WAS,” Levinth grumbles. At that, he turns to you. “Heard of the recent monster problem, girl?” You shake your head no. A lie, but not like he needs to know. “Well, been a lot of beasts that have been gettin’ far more ornery lately. Travel’s gettin’ troublesome. Well, troublesome for folk what don’t know already how to defend themselves.”

“Yeah, but that’s still a lot,” Cait opines. “On the plus side, lil’ folk like us get a better shot at actually sellin’ wares, instead of gettin’ muscled out by the big trader guilds if you’re brave enough to take the chance. Had ta fight off more than a few beasts gettin’ here ourselves. I think this is gonna be it, myself! Where there's adversity, there's opportunity!”

Levinth snorts at that. “Anyway, they’re still smart enough to avoid the bigger roads, usually. But still ain’t the best of times.” That, no one denies.

The topic is dour enough to cause conversation to cease for a bit, before they turn back to you. Cait’s the one to start it this time. “So! Any reason in particular yer headed to Gran Torun? I know a few folk in the area- if you’re looking for anything in particular, I can at least point ya in the right direction.”

>Show her the medallion. “Do you have any idea what this is?”
>Ask her about these ‘guilds’. Just in case.
>Deny, and insist it’s just a stopover on your travels.
>Other
>>
>>4408385
>Ask her about these ‘guilds’. Just in case.
>>
>>4408385
>Ask her about these ‘guilds’. Just in case.
>"I'm a mage in training, and I'm curious about magical artifacts in general. Do you know some good spots in the bazaar that display such?"
>>
>>4408385
>Other: Ask if they know any place with cheep, but good food. Also Ask were we could buy some fruits (For our boss pet bat)
>>
>>4408385
>"For lunch. Anywhere you'd recommend in town?"
>Ask her about these ‘guilds’. Just in case.
>>
>>4408385
>Ask her about these ‘guilds’. Just in case.
>Ask her about notable libraries.
>Ask her about magical artifact dealers.
>>
>>4408392
>>4408396
We hungry, they wouldn't like us when we're hungry.
>>
>>4408385
>"I want to study the magic of different cultures"
>"I've heard there was a great battle around this area, long time ago. Do you have any stories related to it?"
Try to learn if they know anything about the lock stone.
>>
I wonder if we promote ourselves as a mage knight could we get ourselves hired by the kingdom to guard their stone macguffin? That'd be hilarious.
>>
>>4408402
An eatery is a simple place to find anon, I'm not gonna waste a question for that. Best to scout for potential threats and loot.
>>
Guilds, Artifacts, and Food. Important stuff.
>>
>>4408420
If they ask for a name, we can go with Lynn or Mal
>>
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Just found a possible magical souvenir for Tami, a magical hand puppet that can change what it looks like, and can speak with the performer's voice without them throwing it.
>>
>>4408385
“Lunch, mostly,” you admit. It’s not even a lie. “I’ve been traveling for some time, so if you might happen to know anywhere that serves a good meal…”

“The Watchman’s Roost,” all three of them say at once. Well then.

“Best food in the city,” Cait says gleefully, “and they’re good on entertainment, too- the minstrels that play there are AMAZING at their art, and their dancers are quite a treat!”

“...would a young lass like her even be allowed?” Bale muses. “No offense,” he offers.

“None taken,” you mostly don’t lie.

“Well, should be fine so long as she catches the early dinner show,” Levinth muses. “At any rate, they’re an inn, so you should be able to get a place to stay there, as well.” Ah, good to know.

“Thank you,” you offer. “There is something else, however. I'm a mage in training, and I'm curious about magical artifacts in general. Do you know some good spots in the bazaar that display such?" It’s not a stretch to figure you’re a mage, considering the-

Bale nods. “Ah, now the wardrobe makes sense.” Yeah, that. “Well, if you’re looking into that sorta thing, there’s places all around you could check. Saberlane would be better, but there’s more than a few folks hawking all sorts of ancient- or allegedly so- items from ages past in Hawker Street. If you’re just looking for information, though, you’ll probably want to try the local Learning Hall. Big place with a sign that has glasses on it. Hard to miss, actually.”

“Ah. Is that a guild hall?” you ask. Otherwise, they’d just call it a library, right?

“Nope,” he says, surprising you. “Learning Hall’s open to anyone who signs up or pays for a visit.”

“Ah.” It’s here you get a thought. “Then what ARE the guilds around here? What do they do?”

At that, Cait laughs. “What do they do? Pft, just about everything…” And from there, she explains just what Guilds do. In short, they’re regulators for a myriad of professions. They assist with employing personnel, handling major interpersonal disputes, speaking issues related to the local lord, etc. There’s a Mercenary Guild, a Freelancer’s (or Adventurer’s) Guild, a Merchant’s Guild (which the three are a part of), a Farmer’s Guild, an Engineer’s Guild, a Tailor’s Guild, and so on...and apparently all of them have presence in Gran Torun. “Because there’s so much trading going on there, just about every Guild worth the title has at least a small building in Gran Torun, “Cait shrugs.” You’re bound to find SOMETHING that could help.” Yeah, that sounds promising.

(cont.)
>>
>>4408468
And indeed, when you approach the city itself, it seems bigger than even you anticipated. The buildings are well crafted, many multi-storied, and as you pass through the gateway, watched carefully by a number of capable guards, you’re impressed with the well-paved stone roads and well lit streets- and of course, the varied and sundry merchants hawking all sorts of wares, seemingly from the moment you enter city limits.

“‘Fresh fish!’ ‘Finest threads in Gran Torun, right here- I’ll prove it!’ ‘Fruits and vegetables the like you’ve never seen!’” It’s quite the cavalcade of sights and smells and sounds. Even for supposedly a lightened number of people due to the situation, there still seems like plenty of buyers and sellers crowding around a number of stalls.

“We’ll be setting up in just a moment- we’ve already got a space reserved! Come on, and you can pick out some of those mushrooms you want.” Bale offers. You accept.

As they’re setting up, Bale sets up his mushroom section on a cot on the floor, although you see in his pack he has more than that- he’s also got various knickknacks and other foods for sale. Still, you said mushrooms, so…

As he said, he has a number of them, but what it comes down to is this:

>Current Local Funds: 50 small copper coins, 13 large copper coins, 8 small silver coins, and 7 large silver coins! Bale informs you that it’s in denominations of 100 and ten- that is, 100 small coppers make a large copper, 10 large coppers make a small silver, 10 small silvers make a large silver. The girls you’d killed weren’t wanting for cash, it seems...


>Dragonsbreath Mushrooms (x10) (1 Large Copper per shroom): Said to have a sweet and spicy taste, and is only found on a single island naturally, though they’re being cultivated carefully in research areas. They’re considered very robust when boiled, as well, making them good in stews.
>Sweetsap Mushroom (x20) (50 Small Copper per shroom): These are only naturally found in the desert to the south and nearby, and only around oasis areas. They have a sweet tang but are known to induce lethargy, making them excellent sleep aids.
>Navamund Mushrooms (x5) (5 Large Copper per shroom): These rare shrooms are said to be particularly succulent, with a surprisingly fruity flavor. It’s stated that the Elder Fairy Malamund loved these, and blessed humanity with them- but it only appeared to those that had respect for the forest.
>Longdrift Mushrooms (x8) (3 Large Copper per shroom): Mushrooms with a meaty flavor, and very chewy, making them good for staving off hunger on long journeys, so the saying goes. They’re uncommon, however, generally only found in very dangerous jungle areas.

Now...which would Mewla like...?

(Done for the night! Will try to post tomorrow. Also I'll semi-spoil something since otherwise it wouldn't be entirely fair, and say that the mushroom descriptions aren't just for 'flavor', nyuk-nyuk.)
>>
>>4408471
How big these shrooms? Are we talkin meal steak sized shrooms, or are these snack popcorn sized or what.
>>
>>4408500
Dragonsbreath and Navamund are about 3-4 inches in diameter in terms of cap size and are flattopped.

Longdrift is one of those thin conical topped typed but is about 3 inches tall.

Sweetsap is small, about two inches in diameter and is a rounded type.
>>
>>4408471
>Longdrift Mushrooms x5
Sounds like an ingredient for a sleep potion. While Dragonbreath is for an explosive one.
>>
>>4408521
Wait fuck me, I just read Sweetsap again.
Change to
>Sweetsap Mushroom x20
Same idea, used for sleep pots.
>>
>>4408471
so, if we convert it all into small coppers, then we have 79'350 coppers
>Dragonsbreath Mushrooms x3
>Navamund Mushrooms x3
>Longdrift Mushrooms x3
These are just souvenir food, let's grab three of each in case she won't like some of them.
>Sweetsap Mushroom x20
A sleeping powder could be made out of these, and they're cheap too. If they'll ask why do we need so many, tell them that our sleep schedule is bad because of all the studying and travelling/adjusting to different time-zones.
That'll cost us only 3'700 coppers.
>>
>>4408540
>>4408528
if we'll grab only the sleeping shrooms, then it'll be suspicious as fuck
>>
>>4408471
>>4408540
+1
>>
>>4408541
Know what else is suspicious?
Buying an entire stock of an item.
...
>Dragonsbreath Mushrooms x3
>Navamund Mushrooms x3
>Longdrift Mushrooms x3
>Sweetsap Mushroom x20
Support
I do think Mewla will like the Navamund the best.
>>
>>4408545
I know, but 'somewhat suspicious, mind i ask why' is better than 'suspicious as fuck, raise the alarm'
Do you have a better excuse in mind?
>>
>>4408551
I dunno if they'd raise an alarm if we don't buy the other shrooms. We are spending presumably a lot of money on novelty mushrooms to these folk's eyes. They'll probably ask questions regardless unless we only bought 1 of each.
>>
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>>4408567
Sorry, meant 'mental alarms', red flags, etc. I'm sticking with the excuse of being a travelling scholar with good stipend and bad sleeping habits.
>>
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>>4408540
>>4408545
This is fine.

Also when we get to The Watchman’s Roost, we should watch for opportunities to dig people for nasty gossips and rumours about remnants of the Shadow King's cult, under the guise of a young lass who's curious about the Light's legend. Because hey, taverns and rumours.
Then we'll track them down then use them to find the next stone.
>>
>>4408617
Apparently as our boss gather power back he can feel were the other stones are. We got a new location on the desert so i don't see the need of a cult doing that job.
>>
I just realized something: if we plant a couple of the mushrooms and bury the green fertility fairy statuette with them, we might be able to grow more of these thanks to the residual magic coming off of it, thus enabling us to make sleep and fire potions regularly.
>>
>>4408471
>Dragonsbreath Mushrooms (x6) (6 Large Copper per shroom):

>Navamund Mushrooms (x3) (15 Large Copper total)

>Longdrift Mushrooms (x3) (9 Large Copper total)

Total expend: 3 Small Silver

>Some assorted vegetables and fruits for our Bat mount
>>
>>4408820
That's the thing - he can sense them, but he can't pinpoint them (at least, not yet).
I'm very sure the cult will be more than happy to carry out grunt works and be our meat shields. And they're a very good source of present-day info about our upcoming enemies, unlike our boss.
>>
>>4408540
I’ll agree to most of this, although maybe add in an extra Dragonsbreath or two to the pile in case we try >>4408827.

Also agreeing with fruit for the bat.
>>
>>4408939
I can agree with the info part. If we want to use them to scout and gather information were the stones are locates. But if the cult is located here i don't think they would be able to inform us as well as the locals. This place is just a stop point between the places we need to go so i don't think cultist in this area will know were the lockstone is. Last time we got the info from a guard's friend.
>>
>>4408471
right, he has some other foods as well, let's buy some fruits for our bat.
>>
>Dragonsbreath Mushrooms x4
>Navamund Mushrooms x3
>Longdrift Mushrooms x3
>Sweetsap Mushroom x20

We should probably scan them to learn how to grow them, in case Mewla wants to learn how to grow a supply of the rarer ones. Maybe it'll get her to learn nature magic.

>>4409515
Does he even have a name?
>>
>>4409560
Mushroom guys is Bale. Girl with a musket is Cait. Map guy is Levinth.
>>
>>4409560
Oh wait you probably talking about the bat. No idea and doubt our boss named it.
>>
>>4409584
I'm voting for Gargles, cause'.
>>
>>4409584
>Oh wait you probably talking about the bat.
Yup.

Did you know that there's apparently a name generator for pet bats? The first one on my generated list is Pickles.
>>
>>4409602
>>4409588

I would call him either Nocturnis or Nightwing
>>
>>4409588
I'm really into the "give a cute name to a horrifying creature" thing
So either: Gargles, Fluffy, Pixie or Boo
>>
>>4409652
Fluffles?
>>
>>4409652
Why not Batty?
>>
>>4409660
While it's cute, it's very cliche so I left it out
>>
But what if we name the bat, get attached and it performs a villainous sacrifice to protect us. Then we'll feel bad. We should leave it unnamed so we aren't tempted to bring it home with us.
>>
>>4409659
He does have that wild fluff
>>
>>4409676
>performs a villainous sacrifice to-
Magic Gauntlets!
>>
If we're going to the watchman's roost, we got to have Gartoum out to scout around the City (it would be night time so it's ideal for him) while we ask around for rumors and legends so that our search is faster.
>>
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>>4409684
We really lucked out on getting those gauntlets. Pic related at the palm of our hands.
>>4409690
That's ideal. I'm in.
>>
>>4409692
We lucked out on Gartoum too. A great helping hand on sneaky things.
>>
>>4409699
We probably shouldn't rely on Gartoum too heavily, Randa will get lazy.
>>
>>4409701
true, but he's really useful for multitasking.
>>
>>4409690
Gartoum's done for today, ask again later
>>
>>4409690
Shadow-man needs some sleepy times. Leave him be for the moment.
>>
>>4409713
>>4409723
Fine, we can use him for the next day.
>>
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>a rather large building that you’d hesitate to call a castle- more a tower or an early version of a skyscraper, really.
this would be nearly impossible with historical cranes, but what if they used a different way of lifting all the heavy building material up top?
>the FutureSight here is in the form of a tablet, but one made of wood, crystal and metal gears. Unusual.
FutureSights are supposed to camouflage to fit the local level of technology, meaning that magitech machines exist
>“Moreso ‘cause it so happens I’ve got a couple maps myself!” He makes to swing his pack around. “Hup...yep, just so happens we did a bit o’ collectin’ around Saberlane- ah, a town renowned for its scholars,”
Proper maps were accessible in this period, and some sort of observation magic and access to flight would help greatly.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1W7zgA1koGg

I think we might encounter flying ships in this world
>>
Last, but posting shortly.
>>
>>4408471
>>4408540
>>4408544
>>4408545
>>4408617
>>4408841

You eventually decide on a fair amount of each- the numbers don’t shock him any, and he’s pleased to take your money...riiight up until you ask for the twenty Sweetsap mushrooms. “Whoa! I mean, not that I’m opposed, but you got that much money? And why do ya need twenty, anway?”

“As I said, I’m an independent traveler,” you explain smoothly. “My sleep schedule can get pretty bad.”

“I’d have thought sleeping light on the road would be better on the whole,” he mutters. “But, then again, I guess when you’re somewhere civilized like here, probably better to get as good a rest as possible...alright, then. Although, I’m impressed you’ve made this much already,” he notes as you finish paying. “Seriously, if you’re in the market for any kinda gig…”

“Not right now,” you insist. “Do you have any other fruit?”

He does, fortunately- it’s a rather decently sized bushel of various fruits he’s selling for 20 small copper. You figure to take that as well.

>Current Local Funds: 30 small copper, 6 large copper, 5 small silver, 7 large silver.

“I think I’ll look for that inn now,” you decide. “Where’s it at?”

Cait points. “Head down the main street until you see a big building with a blue domed roof. Turn left there and keep going until you see it- it’s got a big sign and everything.”

“You have my thanks,” you offer as you set off.

“Come back if you’re looking for anything!” she yells as you head in the direction she told you.

(cont.)
>>
>>4409999
As you walk the streets, you have to admit, this place seems a cavalcade of tough folk- at least, that’s how it looks, to you. While civilians abound, it seems like there’s a solid martial presence as well; with a number of folks wearing armor plainly and with wicked looking swords, knives, and otherwise, or elaborate staffs and charms. You also note more than a few folks with particular ears and tails- the Wildlings, no doubt. You’re also surprised that there’s a few obvious orcish folks as well- most selling armors and arms, from the looks of it. Before much longer, you see the aforementioned inn- it’s at least three stories, and it seems well built.

Entering, it’s actually a bit better than you expected; there’s a good number of seats, and indeed a stage, where there’s a dance troupe performing- silk and sequins and song, all well choreographed and clearly well liked. The bartender is a middle-aged fellow with steel blue hair. Former combatant from the looks of things, with a few scars and quick eyes. You’re surprised that there’s a desk area before that, however, with a young, bright-eyed lady that you can only suppose is a secretary sitting behind it with a quill and paper. As soon as she lifts her eyes from her writing, however, she jumps slightly. “Oh! Er, hello! Are you, uh, looking for someone?” She smiles with all teeth, but judging how her eyes don’t meet yours for longer than a second, you can wager it’s not entirely honest...skittish girl, maybe. “I’m, uh, afraid we...we don’t really, uh, rent rooms to children by themselves. I'm- uh...sorry.”

...Fuck’s sake.

>(Intimidate) “I want one anyway. I can pay. I can pay WELL.”
> “Sorry. I just heard this was a good place to eat.”
> “Really? That's a shame. Why not?”
> "Is there no way I could get a place to stay for the night?"
> Other
>>
>>4410006
> “Sorry. I just heard this was a good place to eat.”
>>
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>>4410006
> “Really? That's a shame. Why not?”
> “Sorry. I just heard this was a good place to eat.”
It's an empire, they conquer lands and people, got it.
>>
>>4410006
>“Really? That's a shame. Why not?”
>"I got recommended the food and entertainment here too."
>>
>>4410006
> “Really? That's a shame. Why not?”
> “Sorry. I just heard this was a good place to eat.”
Just embrace it Miranda, can even work it to your advantage.
>>
>>4410006
> “Sorry. I just heard this was a good place to eat.”
> “Really? That's a shame. Why not?”
>>
Wait why would they recommend this place to us if they knew they don't let children (pff) take rooms by themselves?
>>
>>4410997
We just came here for the fooooood.
>>
>>4410997
We are here only for the food. Not for a room.It's just a pit stop for food and to get a map.
>>
>>4411018
Do you mean the map of the city? 'Cause we already have maps of the country and the continent.
>>
>>4411034
No i mean the maps we got forn the merchants. At first the idea to go tot he city was to eat and grab a map. But them we bumped into the merchants and got the maps we required.
>>
>>4411196
I mean, all we came here for was a snack, but if we can set up shop in this inn and use it as a base of operations to instigate a war between the mortal races, that might get us a bonus. That's cliche villain plan #4 right?
>>
>>4409999
>“Come back if you’re looking for anything!”
Now that I think about it, there are museums and other places in Intersection that are looking for exotic goods from other worlds. Maybe we should come back and take a couple more shrooms so we could donate them for extra cred/rep + some rations for the trip. And if we'll be visiting their Learning Hall then maybe we could grab some books for the library as well.
>>
>>4411481
Who knows, maybe we'll stumble upon them while doing groceries or visiting the Eatery district
>>
>>4410006
>>4410030
>>4410062
>>4410088
>>4410129
>>4410246
You lift an eyebrow. “Really? That's a shame. Why not?”

She puts on an apologetic smile. “Oh, well, uh, just policy of the owner. He, uh, he doesn’t want, y’know, runaways asking for shelter or the like. Nothing against children specific, just we- we’ve had a few incidents, is all...”

You lift your hand to forestall any attempt at explanation. It’s not that big a deal anyway. “Sorry. Really, I just heard this was a good place to eat. Is that fine?”

“Oh! Uh, I think so!” She notably brightens at this. “I mean, we’re a bit on the pricer side, but if you have money, then I don’t see why not! Here, we have a menu, actually, and if you could just find a seat wherever you like? We’re a bit full tonight since we have the Lovely Dragonfly Troupe here tonight- they’re a pretty big act!” Huh. So that’s what they’re called. If the cheering’s anything to go by, they’re a popular act...although you can guess why, looking at their wardrobe. Nonetheless, you’re faced with the ever-important and ever-classic choice for adventuring sorts, Outgoers included: Where To Sit When You Enter a Tavern.

There’s not many choices, really, an open spot next to a pair of large, orcish warrior folk, one male one female, that seem to be in deep conversation. They both seem a touch disgruntled, with the male looking particularly exasperated as they swig drinks. On the other side, closer to the stage, there’s a whole table that’s free- but for one individual sitting down, a large mustachioed fellow, dressed in intimidating leather armor, who’s chowing down on a massive slab of meat. He’s not pigging out, either- this fellow has manners. Mostly. There’s another free spot further back, with a young catgirl in large glasses and fine clothes, with a small plate of fruits and fish, who’s studiously writing something down in a notebook...taking notes on the dancers, you think judging by her rapid head movement.

Hmmm.

>Sit near the orc duo.
>Try your luck with the large man.
>Take a chance with the catgirl.
>There’s gotta be somewhere else open…(Roll if chosen)
>>
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>>4411500
>Take a chance with the catgirl.
The Empire with catgirls, nice.
>>
>>4411500
>Take a chance with the catgirl.
Let's talk to some sophisticated folks for once.
>>
>>4411500
>Go talk to the catgirl
I'm pretty sure she'll be more accommodating towards a little girl than the other options (which is a shame, I wanted to talk to the orcs. I bet they're talking about happenings in their hometown).
We can get good history/information from a scholar instead of combing through lot's of books in the library (I think she is a scholar, who knows)
>>
>>4411514
What if she's a fujo?
>>
>>4411500
>Sit near the orc duo.
It's the closest. Seems like votes are going for catgirl, which is also an acceptable outcome imo, though if even Miranda is calling her young I doubt she knows much spicy magic stones gossip.
>>
>Take a chance with the catgirl.
Caught up again woo
>>
>>4411500
>Take a chance with the catgirl.
>>
>>4411500
>Take a chance with the catgirl.
>>
>>4411500
>Sit near the orc duo.
>>
>>4411500
>Sit near the orc duo.
>>
>>4411500
>Take a chance with the catgirl.
Speaking of catgirls, wasn’t there a cat that was hanging around our apartment somewhere around the start of this quest? Was it a dropped plot point? Or am I just hallucinating things again?
>>
>>4412321
We passed it to Lori. Presumably she gave it away to one of her friends.
>>
(Got a new computer, so if my ID is different, that's why.)

>>4411500
>>4411503
>>4411507
>>4411514
>>4411563
>>4411580
>>4411698
>>4412321
Well, the young cat seems the least potentially aggressive of all of them, from a glance. You’d rather not risk getting into a barfight or anything right now. She hardly glances at you as you walk up, preferring to focus on her notepad- which you can now see is a combination of words and very very quick sketches for...something, you’re not sure what yet. “Mind if I sit here? Not many open places left.”

“Just don’t interrupt me during the performance, please.” she says simply, and returns to her sketching/writing. You have to admit, her speed’s impressive. The dancers aren’t exactly moving slow, but her sketch speed is hardly a few seconds behind them. You manage to order your food- something filling but not too expensive; it’s 3 large copper on average for a meal anyway.

>Current Local Funds: 30 small copper, 3 large copper, 5 small silver, 7 large silver.

Less than some of those mushrooms, honestly. You’re not sure if that’s good or bad. It’s several minutes- you don’t really want to break her concentration, and so you keep quiet as you wait, observing the troupe. For such a small area, they’re very acrobatic and...flexible, with some of their moves leaning towards the more risque. Might be why those earlier salesfolk were leery about you coming here later. Still, if the catgirl is embarrassed, she doesn’t show it.

Eventually, however, the trope finishes their tricks, and they take a bow- the center star is a young man with a silky, flowing black mane of hair and a lot of spandex. Surrounded by his group of performing girls, he cuts quite the figure. “Thank you, a-thank you! Now, I do hope your eyes’ appetites have been whetted along with your bodies, for should you return in but a few scant hours, there shall be a FEAST!” That seems to get a lot of applause, but the young catgirl seems distressed, of all things. Soon, your food is delivered- some sort of cut up beef and soup, with bread and a small glass of...juice, you find after you give it a taste. You continue to eat as she continues to write, if at a much more sedate pace now.

>What to ask the catgirl?

>Why the feverish notes? You looking to become a performer?
>You seem intelligent. Are you a scholar of some sort?
>You haven’t eaten anything. Maybe you should take a breather?
>Other
>>
>>4413008
>You seem intelligent. Are you a scholar of some sort?
>"Or are you a fan of theirs?"
>>
>>4413008
>Why the feverish notes? You looking to become a performer?
>>
>>4413008
>>4413013
+
Gasp, Miranda doing idle chatters?
>>
>>4413018
Hey now, Miranda can be sociable when she wants to be. Remember when we hung out with Bellbelle where we told her we envied her ability to fly because of her ranged attack advantages and asked her if desummoning a summon was against the rules of the contest and ate ice cream with Suzette the Full Witch where we hung back with her from the rest of the group to avoid socializing with them?
>>
>>4413008
>>Why the feverish notes? You looking to become a performer?
>>
>>4413008
>You seem intelligent. Are you a scholar of some sort?
>>
>>4413008
>You seem intelligent. Are you a scholar of some sort?
>>
>>4413008
>Why the feverish notes? You looking to become a performer?
>>
>>4413008
>>4413013
>>4413018
>>4413121
>>4413128
You eye her carefully as you consider how to open conversation, which you’ve never been a master at...it’s a bit of a gamble to start with a presumption, but maybe it’ll be seen as a compliment regardless? “You seem intelligent. Are you a scholar of some sort? Or are you just a fan of theirs?”

She pauses at your words, clearly not expecting you to actually talk to her. Her eyes slowly lift over the rims of her glasses as she decides how to answer you. “A bit of both, I suppose,” is the response, her voice high-pitch, but somehow mature. “I study Endomagic at the Roegon Academy for Gifted Youth. It’s a prestigious school, if you didn’t know. Very difficult to get into.”

Huh. Maybe not quite as young as you thought. “And the part about being a fan?”

“They’re very visually appealing to look at,” she says without a speck of shame. Definitely not as young as she seems...at least mentally. “Having a personal interest in the subject matter is paramount to performing my best in my studies. They’re also a respectable fallback plan...” she admits in a lower tone of voice.

> Ask more about the study of endomagic. You can guess from the terminology, but it’d be good to hear her take on it.
> “Fallback plan? How?”
> Ask if she knows anyone who’s into magic history or the like.
> Other
>>
>>4416090
> Ask more about the study of endomagic. You can guess from the terminology, but it’d be good to hear her take on it.
> “Fallback plan? How?”
>>
>>4416090
> Ask more about the study of endomagic. You can guess from the terminology, but it’d be good to hear her take on it.
>>
>>4416090
> Ask more about the study of endomagic. You can guess from the terminology, but it’d be good to hear her take on it.
>>
>>4416090
>> Ask more about the study of endomagic. You can guess from the terminology, but it’d be good to hear her take on it.
>>
>>4416090
> Ask more about the study of endomagic. You can guess from the terminology, but it’d be good to hear her take on it.
> “Fallback plan? How?”

Looks like she wants to switch career. Might want to consider it since when bossman rises again mages will be needed everywhere.
>>
>>4416106
Not a bad concept, but the pitch might be a bit tricky.
>>
>>4416090
>>4416096
>>4416098
>>4416099
>>4416104
>>4416106
>>4416096

Well, nothing like a bit of flattery or getting her talking about something she likes. You’re no great shakes at interrogation, but you’ve at least got the concept of greasing things up a bit to make it easier later. “Endomagic, huh? What’s that all about?”

“Ah, you’re not aware?” She takes the lure completely, judging by the sparkle in her eyes. “Endomagic is any magical effect that is primarily inflicted inside the body, both on yourself and on other targets. So, for example, the spell ‘Quickening’ to increase your running speed? That’s Endomagic. Shadow Pall to exhaust someone? Endomagic. Even spells that have an outward component to them, like Warping Ray- it affects your mental state more than anything else- so it’s endomagic.”

“Huh. That’s interesting.” Yeah, it’s kinda what you thought, but she phrases it in a way that makes you feel like you hadn’t known that until she told you.

“In some ways. In particular, it’s about studying length, strength, downsides and aftereffects, how to mitigate those negatives, and more besides. To study endomagic, really, is to study physical health for all species. It’s a challenging subject.” Oddly, she doesn’t exactly sound proud of that, as she finally takes a bite of fish.

>Continue asking about her school life.
>Ask about what she’s doing out here in general.
>See if she knows anything about the medallions or statues.
>"So they were using endomagic up there?"
>Other
>>
>>4416133
>"So they were using endomagic up there?"
>>
>>4416133
Oh, it's an entire school of buffs and debuffs. Always like those ones. Maybe if we can buy a series of book to read/learn about it in our spare time.

>"So they were using endomagic up there?"
>"That Quickening spell seems decent enough, think a beginner like me can learn it? I'm a mage in training myself."
>>
>>4416135
But we already have full body strengthening, and localized strengthening with channel energy. We are already speedy mcfastpants.
>>
>>4416133
>>4416135
+
>>4416140
It's a Haste spell anon, which is always opop. Unless we constantly run into walls with it on.
>>
>>4416133
>>4416135
+
>>
>>4416133
>"So they were using endomagic up there?"
>>
>>4416133
>"So they were using endomagic up there?"
>Ask about haste and warping ray spells
While the haste spell is useful, I really want to know more about the warping ray and other ways to mess up magical things and beings. I think it could be useful to improve our flux wave.
>>
>>4416143
I mean getting some reading material for endomagic can help us refine our own self-buffs, but if we get tutoring with someone it'll be pretty obvious we're not a beginner.
If it is a straight up haste effect, then it's a power multiplier, but the ubiquity of haste across worlds I imagine it's not compatible.
>>
>>4416140
>>4416143
Yeah, we usually put our own spin on other people's techniques. Who knows how this'll turn out. Why are you so keen on stopping other people's write-ins?
And if we can't use it ourselves, knowing what techniques the local mages have and how they can use them against us is arguably more important.
>>
knowing there's magic schools, I thought of a VERY risky plan:
>Destroy mage schools (but loot at least all their stuff) and kill their elite mages.
That way we can (kind of) cripple some of the oppositions' chance to ready their mage troops and thus more advantage on our mission
If we can find the shadow king cult we can use them for this purpose (mostly subterfuge and robbery)
>>
>>4416133
>>4416134
>>4416135
>>4416143
>>4416144
>>4416152
>>4416157
You decide to press on, more or less. Seems like some of it might be personal, so time to redirect the topic a bit. “So they were using endomagic up there?"
She nods. “Eel’s Grace, I believe,” she answers. “It’s a small, subtle spell that makes people more flexible; not out of the realm of normal contortion possibilities, but just enough that you’re seen as far more flexible than normal.”

“And you could detect that?” you ask, impressed.

That gets you a small smile of pride. “It’s just a matter of what to look for. Eel’s Grace has the side effect of heating up your body, causing heavy perspiration in beings that can sweat, and a lot of blood rushing to various parts of the body. It can be masked a bit by claiming exertion, but inflamed hands, feet, and ears are usually dead giveaways. It also reduces pain response.”

Huh. “Gotta admit, that’s interesting.” Spell backlash was usually just kinda something you lived with, as far as you were aware...well, until you worked the kinks out, at least. Flux Wave’ll get there eventually. "Then, what about that Quickening spell? It seems decent enough... think a beginner like me can learn it? I'm a mage in training myself." You think you probably could’ve delivered that with a bit more confidence and a bit less...flat, but the deed is done now. Fortunately, she doesn’t seem to mention it, looking you over with a curious eye.

“I don’t know…” she mumbles. “Endomagic is great, but it can also be dangerous for people that don’t know how to handle it. Overexertion could lead to things like depletion, muscle and skin tears, breaking your own bones by accident...worse. I only feel confident enough to do a few spells, myself, and they’re all of low level. Quickening is probably too much for you, but...hm. Maybe Low Quickening, if you already have some experience…” she mutters.

“Can you?” you ask, putting a bit more eagerness into your voice to sell it. Would be nice to see how things are done around here, you’ll admit.

“Mmm...I guess so,” she says slowly. “But not tonight. I need to get to bed to write up more of my paper. I’m here on a...shadowing assignment, I guess you could say.” she admits with a shrug. “If I don’t get back to my watcher, he’ll be mad. We could meet back here tomorrow morning, though.”

>Ask if you might impose on her kindness a bit further- you’re lacking a place to stay.
>Bid her good evening, and you’ll try to continue to find your way around the city for now.
>Other

(Will continue tomorrow. Sleepy.)
>>
>>4416186
>Ask if there are other inns that can accommodate children/youths
She might be suspicious if we try to bother her more.
>>
>>4416186
>Bid her good evening, and you’ll try to continue to find your way around the city for now.
>Go back to the trader trio and ask if they know a place we could stay at
Might as well buy more shrooms and rations >>4411481
>>
>>4416186
>Bid her good evening, and you’ll try to continue to find your way around the city for now.
>Go back to the trader trio and ask if they know a place we could stay at
Nice, this is where we start our quest to make Izumi run for her money.
+ on rations. Not sure about more mushrooms though, unless we find a potion maker who's willing to cooperate.
>>
>>4416186
Right, looks like we could improve our Over-Channel with this, reduce the risk of overexerting our body and manapool.
>>
>>4416186
>Bid her good evening, and you’ll try to continue to find your way around the city for now.
>>
>>4416186
>Bid her good evening, and you’ll try to continue to find your way around the city for now.
>Go back to the trader trio and ask if they know a place we could stay at
>>
So body enhancing spells and shields are popular in this plane. The preferred method of elimination generally points to catching them before they can get their stuffs up.

Good thing we just bought an anti-magic sniped rifle.
>>
Writing. Sorry, got held up.
>>
>>4416186
>>4416190
>>4416230
>>4416361
>>4416535
“Alright…” you decide. Might as well keep things cordial for now, no reason to press your luck. “Tomorrow morning, then.”

“G’night,” and with that, the both of you take your leave, splitting up upon getting outside. The sun’s just set, and you need to find those merchants again…

“A place to stay at? For a kid your age...mmm, well, there’s the Fae Temples, honestly, and that’s about it. Most places in Durga aren’t allowed to hold children up,” Cait mentions. “Laws and all.”

“Yeah, I heard about that earlier,” you mention. “So it’s legally not allowed. So it’s a Drogan-wide thing, then?”

“Yup,” she nods. “Illegal to sequester or shelter any child for any reason without explicit permission from their parents or guardian. Otherwise, you go to the local lockup. Kids out without a guardian and caught end up in one of the kingdom’s ‘public secure group lodgings’ for the night,” she mentions with a frown. “Can’t say I agree with it, but it is what it is.”

“So why aren’t the Fairy Temples included?” you ask. Not that you know what those are, but you can guess…

She snorts in amusement. “Because NO ONE wants to screw with a Fairy’s place of worship, especially if it’s one to the Elder Fairies. You’re practically asking for trouble.” Huh. Are they really that powerful? Might not be the best idea to get near them, considering your affiliation...but then again, you doubt they’d be RIGHT THERE, and it’d be good intel...

>Ask more about the Fairy Elders and Fairies in general.
>Ask where to find one of the temples- there should be one, right?
>Stick to purchasing rations, and you’ll see what happens for the night.
>Other
>>
>>4417658
>>Stick to purchasing rations, and you’ll see what happens for the night.
>buy two more shrooms of each type
Time to get more components for Nura. Like, that's the reason why she got hired instead of the space blue elf pilot chick.
>>
>>4417658
>Ask more about the Fairy Elders and Fairies in general.
>Stick to purchasing rations, and you’ll see what happens for the night.
>>4417672
Wasn't the reason because we were looking for an Artificier mainly?
>>
>>4417658
>Ask more about the Fairy Elders and Fairies in general.
>Stick to purchasing rations, and you’ll see what happens for the night.
I love rolling for random encounters.
>>
>>4417675
>Mirela: A strange, blue creature reminiscent of an elf. 10 years as a mechanic and inventor
All candidates were artificers.
>>
>>4417691
Oh, I thought you were talking about the other pilot we met a whole while back.
>>
>>4417658
>Ask more about the Fairy Elders and Fairies in general.
>>
>>4417658
>Stick to purchasing rations, and you’ll see what happens for the night.
Keep an eye out for other weird/magic stuff we can find in the market stalls, though. Maybe a magic wand or rod for Tami?
>>
>>4417694
I want these exotic shrooms 'cause when we were looking for Lori after a bar crawl with Amanda Kane, some flower expositions had mentioned the outgoers who brought them to the Intersection. And I don't remember it that well, but there was a trivia bit about statues being built for people who bring rare tech to the Intersection and other contributions. That means bringing rare and exotic stuff could earn us some clout, which we need to get to rank A.
>>
>>4417713
i think you might be over estimating the value of some of these shrooms.
>>
>>4417658
>Stick to purchasing rations, and you’ll see what happens for the night.

>Ask more about the Fairy Elders and Fairies in general.
>>
>>441773
I know that's it's not much, but they're dirt cheap anyway.
>>
>>4417672
>>4417675
>>4417682
>>4417696
>>4417706
>>4417740

As you’re packing everything in, you look back up at them. “So, the Fairy Elders, hm? I’m afraid I don’t really know much about them- or fairies in general, really. Do you?”

Cait and Levinth both look at you oddly before Levinth speaks up. “Really? Are they not that important in your country? I mean, I’d be surprised...but in short, the Fairy race are arguably the most important on the planet. It’s the fairies that keep the world’s source of mana consistent via intake and output, and it’s that that allows us to utilize it as much as we do. They’re the only race that outright subsist on the stuff, and unlike humans, who can survive mana depletion, fairies are MADE of mana, pretty much, so if their mana’s drained, so are they. They die. It’s considered a high crime in literally every kingdom to intentionally harm a fairy- and in some it’s the only crime punishable by death.”

Yeesh. They sound like a problem.

Cait continues. “They don’t get injured like the other races, are resistant to all spells, and usually pretty powerful themselves. S’pretty nuts. We’re lucky that fer the most part they’re pretty benevolent or just wanna be left alone these days. Rumor ‘as it they ain’t fans of technology, but Iunno if that’s just sour grapes from traditionalists or what. Used to be a lot more just wanderin’ around, but that’s changin’. There’s a few fairies still out an’ about, though, if you look hard enough.”

“And the Elder Fairies?” you ask.

“Ah, they’re some of the oldest Fairies around. Supposed to have been here when the world was young, helped tame the planet and give humans an’ Wildlings a shot at survival. Before that, was supposedly some Dark King that tried to remake the planet in ‘is image because he weren’t a fan of how things was shakin’ out. S’posedly, it’s why the world looks like ‘ow it does, and s’why they’re worshipped- apparently they govern the Fairies from the Fairy Realm or somethin’ now an’ it’d take some sort of legend to call ‘em back down...I dunno the specifics,” she admits.

“Old religious tale, though- can’t say it’s true or not,” Bale interjects. “Doubt Groboks would want it to be.”

Oh? You’d noticed the omission of them. “Why not?”

(cont.)
>>
>>4417768
Cait makes a face. “Old religious dogma what says they were the Shadow King’s creation or his minions or some bulldust like that. Groboks don’t get much fair shake outside o’ Drogan. Unfair is what it is.” There’s a tenseness to her that wasn’t there before, and you raise an eyebrow. The gesture seems to cool her off some, giving you a light huff and a smirk. “S’personal business. Not gonna go tellin’ a curious kid my life story, am I?”

“Fair. I guess I better go, then, and find somewhere to stay,” you offer. “Thank you for the rations and the history lesson.”

She waves you off. “Hey, just keep yer wits about ya. There’s a Temple of Yuyula somewhere ‘round the eastern end o’ the city, near the tower, if you need a place to stay. Keep safe, yeah?”

Well, good to know, but maybe there’s something you can discover before you start worrying too much about sleeping arrangements…

>Roll 1d20, best of three.
>>
Rolled 15 (1d20)

>>4417769
Can we find some pickpockets who want to try their chance on a kid so we can reverse-mug them?
>>
Rolled 7 (1d20)

>>4417769
>>
Rolled 8 (1d20)

>>4417769
>>
Rolled 5 (1d20)

>>4417769
>>
So they're made entirely out of mana. Wonder what happens if we flux an entire nest of em', or unleash the Z1.
>>
>>4417773
Don't be silly anon. What we should do is reverse mug those people, find their hideout, take it over with loads of intimidation and arm breaking and than use it as our base in the city
>>
>>4417789
Well Garto is supposely made fo mana isn't he? So probably the same thing that happend to him. I'm curious about the ancient dragon though.
>>
>>4417789
>>4417793
what would happen if we poison their sources of mana with Seither? Might turn them into aggressive junkies, and they won't be able to get their fix.
>>
>>4417807
Man I wish we brought an Ivonium pill. Would be spectacular.
>>
>>4417811
Throwing magical tiberium into the magical faries would have been....an experience to say the least.

handler, can we have a what if scenario about that?
>>
>>4417811
>>4417824
Sheit lads this is a magical war crime if I ever saw one.
>>
>>4417807
I don't know how addictive seither would be to a being made entirely out of mana, probably more than it is for Miranda but from my recollection withdrawl symptoms weren't too terrible. Ivonium on the other hand, would probably explosively replicate itself and turn this world into an apocalypse overnight.

But you never find out unless you experiment!
Time to bring otherworldly drugs with us on missions to absolutely RUIN people.
War crimes! War crimes! War crimes!
>>
>>4417836
>Ivonium on the other hand, would probably explosively replicate itself and turn this world into an apocalypse overnight.

>Local evil overlord outdone by his dragongirl underling, proceeds to crown her the new evil overlord

I admit, this is an unexpected way to "fail" a job.
>>
>>4417836
>Ivonium on the other hand, would probably explosively replicate itself and turn this world into an apocalypse overnight.
It makes me sad that we don't have a way to bring post loadout.....Well, we can if we order the fighter to help us, but that's way too costly for a measly war crime.
>>
>>4417769
>>4417773
>>4417775
You spend some time walking, listening to evening hawkers, and looking around, trying to get the lay of the land before you head to...well, you’re not sure just yet, but whatever you pick, you’ll probably need to do it soon, else the choice will likely be made for you. Already you can see some folks starting to turn in or close up for the day. Whatever you’re looking for, you’ll have to make it quick-

“Miss! Oho, Miss!” Hm? “Yes, you, with the cloak!” You turn to the voice, to see one of the merchants you just passed- a thin bearded man with some youth still in him, he has no stall proper, his wares set out on a very fine rug. Yet, his wardrobe being of a fine cape, a silken-looking purple vest and fitting green shorts also tells you that he’s no mere peddler. “If you’d come here for just a moment, I think I may have some wares that would be of great interest to you!” Ah. Just another hawker trying to- “Particularly considering your garb, that is...” he says in a quieter, but no less intense tone of voice. The tap on his chest- where your clasp is- is what convinces you to walk over.

“Greetings, little miss. I am Avio, traveling historian and merchant of some renown…” you raise an eyebrow- he certainly doesn’t have the fanciest digs, if that’s the case. You get a grimace from him for that. “...in, er, other places than here, that is.” Much better. “Nonetheless! I must admit you caught my eye for a particular reason- and I hope perhaps I might catch yours with a few wares.” He waves his hand over a number of old objects; none particularly strike you as useful, save for perhaps one or t- wait. There’s another pair of statues in the back. One of them of a blue, fishlike creature and made out of smooth stone, and another that seems to be made of white clay and sculpted with a purposefully lumpy style, the curves smooth and defined. “Do you perhaps understand the symbolism of the clasp you wear?” he asks, pointing. “I would wager not, as most wouldn’t unless they explicitly sought to learn such. But I’m getting ahead of myself. Maybe you’re interested in buying something, hm? Or a trade?”

> Fine. A trade, then.
> How much for either of the statues?
> No deal.
> Other

>>4417824
...nothing good at all, I'll say that much for now.
>>
>>4417850
>spoilers
YES!
WAR CRIMES, WAR CRIMES!

> How much for either of the statues?
>>
>>4417850
> Other: Veery slowly try to put our veil or whatever it's that makes our tail appear back in our neck.

> Fine. A trade, then.

Oh a merchant that knows about the Shadow King crest. Interesting.
>>
>>4417850
>> Fine. A trade, then.
>Check if he understands the symbolism, make a suggestion about the increasing number of monsters
>>
>>4417850
> How much for either of the statues?
> "Interesting figurines. I've encountered some myself, only that they depict fairies."
>>
>>4417836
Ivonium is a rare "natural" resource that people dig out, Seither is the one that grows and spreads by itself.
>>
>>4417864
Anon o think those are the OTHER fairies. So far we have the fire and nature fairy. Those other seem to be the water and maybe something representing the light.
>>
>>4417850
> How much for either of the statues?
> feign ignorance about the symbol
>>
>>4417850
> How much for either of the statues?
>>
>>4417850
>>4417861
adding
> How much for either of the statues?
>>
>>4417865
Other way around.
>>
So whatever we do i think we should avoid touching the white thing that possibly has light magic in it. Unless we want to risk ot dispelling our boss neat cloak.
>>
>>4417871
Detect magic beforehand, got it.
>>
>>4417850
>How much for either of the statues?
>Check if he understands the symbolism, make a suggestion about the increasing number of monsters
We gotta hide the shadow boss' symbol behind the cloak, can't have people be noticing us.
>>
>>4417870
Huh, I thought aliens brought Seither to that world so it wasn't natural and since Ivonium was commonly used as magitech fuel I kinda assumed it was finite.
>>
>>4417878
Eh the main reason to have it out is for other peopel who are knowledgeable or sympathetic can reconize it. Kidna glad we didn't spend time with the Gorbok duo in the inn at least. They would probably reconize it.
>>
>>4417850
>>4417858
>>4417864
>>4417867
>>4417868
>>4417869
>>4417878

“...how much for either of the statues?” you decide. You’re not willing to trade him for anything.

He nods in understanding. “These statues are quite valuable- they depict the Elder Fairies Sylathi and Mobambo- those with power over water and wind, respectively. They’re less popular than Malamund, Anga, and Yuyula, but they still carry importance. I can’t let them go for anything less than at LEAST a large silver.”

Hmmm…

He has a smile that suggests he knows something you don’t. The fact that it might be true is aggravating, to say the least. “Well, perhaps you might be interested in a bit of history to go along with those purchases. That is...if you’re interested in the legend of dragons, anyway.” He shrugs like it’s no big deal, but…

>Current Local Funds: 3 large copper, 5 small silver, 7 large silver.

>...you’re not going to be swayed by that. “No dice.”
>...it IS probably worth knowing, even if his info might be a bit off. “Deal.”
> Other
>>
>>4417895
>>...it IS probably worth knowing, even if his info might be a bit off. “Deal.”
>>
File: seither and ivonium.png (35 KB, 1602x302)
35 KB
35 KB PNG
>>4417884
>>
>>4417895
>...it IS probably worth knowing, even if his info might be a bit off. “Deal.”
Local currencies can be procured, willing or unwilling. Artifacts? Much harder.
Also collecting statues should trigger a side-quest metagaming wise.

We're missing one statue.
>>
>>4417895

> Other:"Did you say dragons?"

>...it IS probably worth knowing, even if his info might be a bit off. “Deal.”
>>
>>4417895
>...it IS probably worth knowing, even if his info might be a bit off. “Deal.”
>>
>>4417895
> Other:"Did you say dragons?"
>...it IS probably worth knowing, even if his info might be a bit off. “Deal.”
>>
>>4417897
...Huh. Might've misinterpreted what you wrote, then.
>>
>>4417895
>Raise eyebrow accordingly
>“Deal.
>>
>>4417895
>>4417896
>> Other:"Did you say dragons?"
>>
Oh, shit, before we forget, sniff the dude, in case he's planning to ambush us or is a dragon in disguise.
>>
Writing.
>>
>>4417931
+
>>
>>4417899
Light. We're missing the light one.
Fitting.
>>
>>4417931
Come now anon he is obviously just a merchant AND a historian. He would never be a dragon in human form.
>>
>>4417931
>>4417937
>Too late...

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=33-VuvmquUI
>>
>>4417895
>>4417896
>>4417899
>>4417901
>>4417903
>>4417906
>>4417924
You try to only let a bit of interest show. “Did you say dragons?”

“That I did,” he confirms with mock solemnity. “And the fact that you’re aware of them is good. Precious few people recall the beasts that once ruled over land and sky.”

“...fine. Deal.” You hold out two large silvers, and he takes them quickly, as though you might reneg on the offer. He plucks up the two statues and hands them over easily, and you stow them in your pack for later. “So, what’s this about dragons?”

>Acquired Water Fairy Sylathi Statue!
>Acquired Wind Fairy Mobambo Statue!

He grins, looking around him- indeed, the streets are getting lighter, and his merchant neighbors are well and gone for the night. “Well, considering the hour, I’ve not much time; but I’ll give you the important bits. What few people know about the ancient dragons know that, long before the fairies came to power- before they were of sound mind and body, there existed a race yet before them. These were the dragons- lords of land and sky. They were mightier and swifter than any ground-bound beast, and yet more fleet than any bird, and their magic was beyond compare. It was they that ruled the land before the fairies matured and began to logic and reason, and understand the power they held.”

“So what happened to them?” you ask, curious. The Shadow King had mentioned one of them, so he knew of them at least.

“Ah, well, it’s said that during the Ancient War, the one between fairy-kind and the Darkness, the Dragons fought on the side of Darkness- they thought themselves superior. Mighty. They ruled once and sought to keep that rule. We know no other reason...but it was said that the dragons were robbed of their mana by the fairies themselves, for while Dragons were of both flesh and magic, the fairies were pure mana- and flesh alone is fain strong against magic. Though many fairies fell, size proved itself no barrier to the mighty dragon race falling, either.” He leans back, allowing you to take it in.

“So...what does that have to do with my clasp?” you continue. Seems like he’d just kept you here for a history lesson…

“Ahh, well...in the etchings and pictures I’ve discovered, that same symbol you wear, I believe, was of relevance to one of the great dragons that fought. The meaning of it eludes me, sadly...but I am most curious where or how you acquired it. I’ve only seen two others of its like before. One was in a tomb, and the other, the hands of a king.” Hmph. Not like you need to tell him the truth...but it’s getting late, and you can’t stay out much longer- unless you want to get caught and put into one of those public whatever houses.

>Action?
>>
>>4417997
>Ask him if he knows anything about the battle that happened nearby long time ago.
>Does he know other people interested in 'history'
>>
>>4417997
> Smell him
> Jokingly ask : "Ha, you sure you're not one of those dragons, mister? That's a lot of obscured knowledge."
>Does he know other people interested in 'history'.
>>
>>4417997
>>4418009
+
>>
>>4417997
>>4418001
>use Power Sense
>>
>>4417997
>>4418009
+ SNIFF
>>
>>4417997
>>4418009
and also
>What king?
>>
>>4417997
>>4418035
nice catch
>>
>>4418035
This too.
>>
>>4418035
Good eye.
>>
>>4417997
>"Isn't obvious? I'm no grave robber so obviously i must have being given it."

>Smile and see if we can equip our scarf once more to get our tail back.
>>
Writing. last for tonight because I did the 'nearly fell asleep at the computer' thing which is usually a sign I'm pushing it.
>>
Oh boy did we stumble into one of our boss old minions?
>>
>>4417997
>>4418009
>>4418016
>>4418019
>>4418020
>>4418035
>>4418038
>>4418040
>>4418041
Well, there might be enough time for a bit more inquiry...this fellow seems surprisingly knowledgeable in subjects supposedly lost to the ages. “That’s...a lot to say about something so obscure.”

He grins at the praise- you get the feeling that if he wore glasses, he’d be tilting them right now. “Well, as I said, I AM a traveling historian of some renown. That often involves delving into dangerous places to discover history and the truth with it. I’ve had my fair share of scrapes, but I’ve come out of it with an understanding of things that most people would never believe!”

“Interesting,” you say, giving a sniff. More of testing than curious, however; if he’s had a fight or two, you wonder…

A light cough drops from you, and you quickly mask it as clearing your throat as you QUICKLY re-evaluate the man. Whomever he might be, he’s pretty damn strong, one way or another as a garbage smell comes at you. Whether that’s physically or with spells, you’re unsure, but this guy definitely isn’t your average merchant…and he might not just be spouting suppositions. “Ah, are you alright?” he asks in seemingly honest concern. “Many of the stalls often burn incense because of all the people- the remaining fumes tend to waft this way when they put them out for the night…”

“I’m fine,” you assure. “But I have to admit, I’m impressed. Though- you mentioned a king? What king?” He had said such, and you’re curious.

“Ahhh- the only king that matters, I’d say,” he claims, giving a grin. “I’d suggest visiting the kingdom of Alminia if you want to know more about the matter; that’s about all I’m willing to say in, ah, public company.” Wait, public- “And YOU should be on your way, my dear- the hour is getting late, and the patrols don’t look well on youths strolling alone after dark.” He’s already beginning to pack up, for whatever reason. You don't like people not answering questions straight...but raising a fuss wouldn't be a good call right now.

“Hold on, before I go…” you don’t really see yourself having much more chance to talk to him, so might as well. “Do you know any other people interested in this kind of ‘history’?” you ask carefully.

He pauses for a bit, rolling his eyes upwards in thought. “Hmmm...I do believe I might know a few folks. It’s not a topic often researched, but...well, perhaps I’ll see if they can get in touch with you, hm? Provided you DO go to Alminia, that is.” He has that ‘I know something you don’t’ grin on again as he starts rolling up his carpet. “Until next time, perhaps?”

“Right…” you mutter as you consider your options for lodging.

>Might as well just get caught; maybe you’ll get lucky and see if anyone knows anything else interesting before bed.
>May have to risk going to the temple after all if you want a decent night’s sleep.
>Worth trying to hide out- maybe you can find somewhere quiet and out of the way.
>Other
>>
>>4418072
>>Worth trying to hide out- maybe you can find somewhere quiet and out of the way.
So he was either a dragon or a dragon's lackey. Neat.
>>
>>4418072
>Worth trying to hide out- maybe you can find somewhere quiet and out of the way.
>>
And apparrntly there is a cult/followers of the shadow king in Alminia.
>>
>>4418072
>>Worth trying to hide out- maybe you can find somewhere quiet and out of the way.
Thanks for running!
>>
>>4418076
Garbage is a stink we don't get often, he's no paltry merchant, that's for sure. Some type of archmage or dragon I think. Probably not something we want interested in our business. Unless they're offering to outbid the shadow king.
>>
>>4418072
>Worth trying to hide out- maybe you can find somewhere quiet and out of the way.
Rogue archmage, or surviving dragon, or both.
Not hostile to us at least, or can even be an ally.
>>
>>4418115
I am a paranoid anon, so when powerful "potentially friendly" wizard shows up I start thinking of what shenanigans they could pull against us by team-ups.
Which is a lot.
Wizards are scary.
Especially when you clearly draw lines of allegiance. He could undercut our pay, scheme to banish us, try mind control, all sorts of nasty business.
And that's assuming he picks to join the shadow king's side.
>>
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>>4418123
We'll have to see if he's capable of spamming Time Stops and instant death spells first. We're a picky girl.
>>
>>4418132
Oh, well y'know that's a fair point, how powerful does a wizard have to be before we attempt to scout them? The intersection is a wet dream for wizards.
>>
>>4418136
i think that mostly depends on how tough the wizard is. you can be as powerful as you want, but if you're as strong as a wet tissue, you aren't fit for the intersection.
>>
>>4418839
I think we'd also take a rain check on evilness, like, intersection might be neutral, but we like our neighbors to be nice, right?
>>
>>4418843
i'm pretty sure that if they try to do anything dickish they'll get their ass booted in absolutely no time.
>>
>>4418845
Right but that would reflect poorly on us.
And we're shooting for A rank or something.
>>
>>4418072
>>4418076
>>4418077
>>4418081
>>4418115

At this point, you’d rather not deal with security or anything of the sort, really. Nor do you want any magically-sensitive alarms going off due to shadow magic or the like. At this point, you figure your best bet is to simply find somewhere quiet and out of the way to sleep and hope that no patrols stumble on you. As big a place this is, it shouldn’t be too hard, at least. At the very least, it’s warm enough for you to not have to worry about covering up too much.

It’s not very much, but you eventually find a place- a little, literal hole in the wall- not quite a gutter, but somewhere near; you’re aware that alleys and gutters generally are some of the first places patrolmen look for wayward youths.

>Roll 1d20, best of three.
>>
Rolled 13 (1d20)

>>4419050
>>
Rolled 19 (1d20)

>>4419050
>>
Rolled 4 (1d20)

>>4419050
>>
>>4419053
Well, mayhaps another lead stumbled into us.
I wanted to wake up and remember to post that we could follow the suspicious guy back to his sleeping place, but I forgot. Also that's too anime.
>>
Neat. Writing.
>>
>>4419057
Taking bets on stumbling upon an entrance to the secret society's lair.
>>
>>4419068
Taking bets on stumbling into a empty room with a amgical circle we can't activate.
>>
>>4419053
Miranda is getting way to good in sneaking this session. I'm starting to worry.
>>
>>4419084
What next? Lori becomes competent and reliable? Izumi abandons her heroism and become a true operator?
>>
>>4419050
>>4419051
>>4419053
>>4419054
Nothing interrupts your sleep, thank goodness; you really wouldn’t have liked to wake up in a dingy cell or with armed men staring you down. The morning brings with it more shouts and hawking, traders looking to set up early and get some quick sales in before the larger throng of people show up. As you step out, you’re careful to make sure there’s no undue attention on you. Now, you just need to find that girl…

When you make your way back to the inn, you’re pleased to see that she’s already there...and there’s someone else with her. An older male, dressed in decent clothes of a simple vest and pants. Human, as well, with tanned skin and shaved hair- a physical laborer, maybe. As you approach, he speaks up first. “So, this the girl you was talkin’ about, Rena?”

Ah, so that’s her name. You hadn’t gotten it the other day. “Yes, and hello,” she greets. “This is my guardian for my stay here, Alan. He’s one of the local guard.”

“Off duty, though,” he greets with a grin. “Pleasure to meetcha, miss…?”

Ah. You never DID give a name, either. Hm. What would be sufficiently dragon-ish…?

>Vivasa
>Zenali
>Iva
>Other

Yeah, normally I pick names but I'm feeling different right now.
>>
>>4419106
>>Iva
>>
>>4419106
>Iva
Short and simple
>>
>>4419100
Owlia leaves Cylica for Nura after having a passionate evening affair in the labs behind her back.
>>
>>4419106
>Iva
Can do.
Hmmm what's wrong with just going with our old codename?
>>
>>4419106
>Iva
>>
>>4419106
>Iva
Short and sweet
Melinda to the boss, Iva to the citizens
>>
Maybe we should very subtlety warn this catgirl of the upcoming apocalypse, as the reward for teaching us the spell.
But eh, priorities.
>>
>>4419106
>Iva
>>
>>4419114
We're pretending to be a normal mage girl now, can't have people getting clues about our true form when they hear about Melinda the Shadow Kings terror later in the mission.
>>
>>4419106
>Ivandora. But you can call me Iva.
>>
Pretty one-sided. Writing.
>>
>>4419141
Iva very good feeling about this name
>>
>>4419122
Nah, she will figure out once it happens.
>>
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>>4419137
I'll call you Ivan
>>4419154
Means 'willow' in russian
>>
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>>4419167
I think we're on to something.
>>
>>4419176
>Urban dictionary
>>
>>4419106
>>4419109
>>4419110
>>4419114
>>4419115
>>4419118
>>4419124
“Iva,” you decide on. Short, sweet, but not too indicative. You think.

“Well met,” he offers as he holds out his hand for a shake. You meet it, noting the respectable grip and roughness. Likely he’s seen his share of combat, and physically, too. “Hope you don’t mind me playing chaperone to this little tutoring session. When Rena told me she’d met a girl interested in Endomagic, I couldn’t help but be concerned. But, so long as you keep it simple and be careful, I won’t say no. Goodness knows this girl’s got a brain on ‘er, eh?” He playfully ruffles her head as he says this...she doesn’t seem to do much more than give a half-hearted swat or two back, either. “Aanywho, let’s find us a spot where we can do this careful like, huh? There’s the Temple Yards, the guard’s Training Grounds, the Trademaster’s Halls if you’re feelin’ froggy.”

“Trademaster’s Halls?” you ask. Never heard of that one.

“Oh yeah,” he confirms. “That big tower across town? S’where all the bigwigs of the trade guilds hang out. They got a buncha stuff there, one of ‘em being practice rooms for long-term caravan guards. They let folks in for a bit of coin, and kids get ta practice free. Even get instruction from a free guard or somethin’ if they’re lucky. Expect a lotta stares, though. They love ta headhunt for new potential. ‘Course, if you’re not inta that, we just could take a jaunt outta the walls, do it in the wilderness proper, no worries ‘cept us.”

“This seems a lot just for a Quickening spell…” you mutter.

“Oh? S’all she said?” He gives a knowing look to his ward. “Rena told me you were askin’ all sortsa questions. I’d gotten in my ‘ead she had a new study buddy.”

Due to the light fur, Rena can’t visibly blush, but her expression tell you she’s trying REALLY hard.

>...I don’t mind learning a bit more.
>...We should keep it just to the one for now.

Where to?
>Temple Yards
>Training Grounds
>Trademaster’s Halls
>Woodland
>>
>>4419211
>...I don’t mind learning a bit more.
>Trademaster’s Halls
>>
>>4419211
>...I don’t mind learning a bit more.
>Temple Yards
>>
>>4419211
>...I don’t mind learning a bit more.
Give me all of that buff/debuff spells if possible thanks.
>Woodland
Privacy is good, because if we did that in public someone could notice our skills or something
>>
>>4419211
>...I don’t mind learning a bit more.
>Trademaster’s Halls

Methinks this catgirl doesn't have many friends, and we'll be one of her firsts.
Can't wait for the inevitable heartbreak.
>>
>>4419211
>...I don’t mind learning a bit more.
>Trademaster’s Halls
Less time wasted going inna woods. And more eavesdropping opportunities.
>>
>>4419211
>...I don’t mind learning a bit more.
>Woodland
>>
>>4419224
>Her face when she finds out her only friend works for the evil king trying to destroy the world.

At least we won't be burning her home town and killing her childhood friend and mentor in front of her
>>
Whoop, writing. Halls it is.
>>
>>4419251
it would be the perfect irony if she tries to work with the shadow king in hopes of trying to still be friends with us. in other words.....
MIND BREAK, MIND BREAK!
>>
...you know, moments like this makes me wish we had an evil character in our roster. too bad izumi would definitely be against it.
>>
>>4419305
Does Cylica count?
>>
>>4419307
...you actually have a point there, but she's a courier
>>
>>4419297
i take it if we leave after the Shadow King start his conquest. She will join the hero party to try and find her missing friend.
>>
>>4419310
What about Lori?
>>
>>4419310
Doesn't mean she can't do a good job of being bad. Just means she's got to be more managerial about it, rather than being hands on like Miranda.
>>
>>4419313
oh yeah, you're right. we actually were rather cruel with the medabots MC.
>>4419311
yeah that's another thing she could do.
>>4419316
hands on evil is where the fun's at.
>>
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>>4419313
>>
>>4419211
>>4419220
>>4419224
>>4419232
>>4419249
“I don’t mind learning a bit more if you really want to teach me,” you mention. You don’t know how much she knows that’ll be any useful, but it couldn’t hurt to get some inspiration at the very least. “And if we’re going to do that, why not do it at the best place possible? The Trademaster’s Halls sound fine.”

“Fair ‘nough!” Alan agrees. “Lemme show you the way…” he starts off and gestures you both to follow him. “Keep close, streets are usually clogged.” The both of you do so, and indeed, you notice Rena scooting closer to you a bit. Seems like she really was hoping for a friend.

Shame, that.

“The Trademaster’s Halls were some of the first structures ‘ere,” Ala explains as he leads you through what’s honestly a VERY plush and fancy brick and wood structure; it’s a deluge of golds and velvet reds meant to embody the fact that those who frequent this tower are akin to rulers themselves. “And it’s where folks used ta come when they wanted to trade. The halls were meant to house as many folk as possible in as small an area as possible, ‘cause they didn’t want folks too spread out. That changed, mind, after we got a bit more secure an’ the Empire saw we weren’t budging, eheh. Back then they were called the Trader’s Halls, but once some Guilds started to get bigger than the others, well...eh. Good news is they they ain’t reserved or nothin’. If someone kin make it big, they got a place at the Halls. And they loves the competition!”

Interesting methodology. As you figure on that, he takes out a card, showing it to a guard, who salutes, and lets him in. “Ah, here we are!” One of the halls opens up to...well, a pretty basic training room. It’s made of fine black stone, and has straw and rock practice dummies in there, some freestanding rocks for whatever reason, a large pool, and even has something resembling a running track in it as well. “So, you wanna learn a few tricks, here’s the place ta do it. Rena? Think it’s your time.”

“R-right.” She seems more nervous now… “So, we said we’d practice Low Quickening, but, uh...well, I was thinking we could try a couple of others. I know about Nighteye, which helps you see in the dark and lower light conditions...it’s really handy, but you shouldn’t use it in daylight. And there’s Tounge-tie, which is really funny,” she admits with a small laugh. “Cause it makes it hard to talk normally. They end up just saying silly stuff!”

“Huh. That sounds fun.” Also more useful than you thought! “Alright. How do we start?”

“Uh, alright, so if you already know the basics of how magic works…” she starts, and the lesson begins.

>Roll 4d20. Low Quickening, Nighteye, and Tongue-tie in that order.
>>
Rolled 11, 11, 1, 18 = 41 (4d20)

>>4419327
>>
Rolled 5, 4, 16, 11 = 36 (4d20)

>>4419327
sanic
>>
>>4419317
Swings and roundabouts, anon. Miranda can be great at the hands-on stuff, but you can't tell me that Cylica doesn't have the better evil noblewoman's laugh.
>>
Rolled 16, 16, 16, 19 = 67 (4d20)

>>4419327
>>
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>>4419331
Sweeet jebus, we're a prodigy
>>
Rolled 11, 10, 13, 4 = 38 (4d20)

>>4419327
>>
>>4419330
ok i can't really argue with that. cylica was a king/emperor and arguably got to that place by being a shifty bastard
>>
>>4419335
Nah we be a dragon.
>>
Rolled 19, 12, 3, 5 = 39 (4d20)

>>4419327
>>
Impressive.

(The last roll wasn't for learning, it was for something else related.)
>>
>>4419347
oooh shit, we caught someone's attention
>>
Shame we can't explore more, feel like the news of the first lockstone would reach soon.
>>
Rolled 7 (1d100)

>>4419319
Fite me
>>
>>4419361
Fuck
>>
We should share these techniques to Izumi and Lori.
Especially Lori, since the techniques are very suited for her
>>
>And there’s Tounge-tie, which is really funny,” she admits with a small laugh. “Cause it makes it hard to talk normally. They end up just saying silly stuff!”
Waiwaiwait, is this a fuggin Silence spell?
>>
>>4419366
Should we teach Rena something in return? Something like the hearing aids technique?
>>
>>4419349
Yeah time to bail.

>>4419352
Maybe we will be lucly and people will tell is were the second lockstone is located. It's said to be somewhere around this area.
>>
>>4419369
Sounds like a confuse spell
>>
>>4419369
More like the Tongue-Tying Spell from Harry potter.

So it would only work if the caster uses vocal command for their magic.
>>
>>4419378
We can cast it on officers, leaders and orators.
>>
>>4419382
And to improve our flux wave
>>
>>4419397
Like an extra effect?
>>
>>4419406
Yeah. On top of getting their brains knocked to hell and back, they cant say anything right as well.
>>
>>4419327
>>4419328
>>4419329
>>4419331
You’re honestly pretty pleased at the results, overall. Rena, despite her young age (you think) is pretty alright as a teacher, and she knows what she’s talking about, allowing you to understand the basic pluses and minuses for each ability fairly easily. Quickening in general is supposed to lead to immense hunger and muscle strain; Low Quickening mitigates that a bit, but by all accounts is supposed to still cause issues if used too long. Learning how to activate it takes about two hours, however, and holding it long enough to make a lap around the track another one. It’s not even remotely close to how fast Izumi can get with High Tension, but you do wonder if the concept is similar on a base level, and you have to imagine that when you aren’t holding back, even a small boost of speed would do wonders for you. It DOES cause you to shake out your legs, though; even that much had you feeling like you’d just given your legs a real workout. You’ll need to work on improving it…

>Learned Low Quickening- A boost to movement speed, this nonetheless strains your legs if you use it for longer than a few seconds- meaning that speed and your movement gets paid back once you’re done. Trying anything strenuous after the spell is done isn’t recommended.
Mana Cost: 200

Nighteye is similar, in that the concept is plenty understandable, but the actual execution takes a while- if only because you and Rena want to be very careful about the dangers of eyestrain. This one is tested by you shuffling inside your cloak to blot out as much light as possible, while trying to see a set of playing cards Alan had on him. (Apparently he just likes cards.) It’d taken you as long as it did if only because the strain on your eyes meant you had to rest after every minor attempt...but once everything zoned out and you started to see everything in clearer detail, you considered it worth it. No need to worry about nightvision goggles with this...at least, unless someone shines a light in your face. Then you can expect to be blinded for several minutes, at least.

>Learned Nighteye: Allows you darkvision up to a limited range, and in anything but pitch black. If any major source of light is lit in your immediate vision, however, you’ll be blinded for a while, so you need to use it carefully. And even then, when cancelling it, your eyesight gets particularly blurred for a few minutes.
Mana Cost: Negligible.

(cont.)
>>
Hey handler a questiin do we get cool shinny eyes while using the nighteye spell?
>>
>>4419416
Oof yea, nighteye's drawbacks are crippling in a combat scenario, especially with the amount of flashy bright spells we have on tap. Though, Miranda did experiment with blind-fighting not terribly long ago...
>>
>>4419416

The last, Tongue-tie, is honestly...well...it’s actually kinda fun. You both basically have to read the other person’s lips- it’s a spell that affects the muscles rather than the brain, so it relies on continuous focus, and while there’s little outright notice that the spell is being cast, it’s also something that can be broken with enough concentration. The two of you end up practicing it on each other, then Alan, before he deems that you’ve gotten it down well enough...and to please stop making him spout nonsense. That gets a laugh out of Rena.

>Learned Tounge-tie: Allows you to scramble the words of the individual you’re focusing on. But it numbs your own tongue and mouth in exchange, and you have to focus to keep the effect up, forcing your attention on one single subject.
Mana Cost: Negligible.

It’s late afternoon when you’re done with the training- and Rena, for her part, seems like she enjoyed it. “I...I don’t normally have anyone except my classmates as...interested as you were,” she admits. “Most of them are more...exclusive in terms of choosing friendships.” Ah. That explains a bit. “So this was nice. Really nice.”

“It was pretty interesting,” you say somewhat neutrally. You can’t exactly stay here, of course, so you particularly need to dissuade her of any kind of hope on that front. “And these’ll come in handy on my travels.”

“...oh, yeah,” she mutters. “You sure you don’t wanna stay here? It’s not as bad as the rest of the Empire, really. The Trade Masters are pretty powerful, so Gran Torun is almost independent! It’s pretty nice to see new things every day, too…”

“S’at why you got all those pictures an’ drawings of the Dragonfly Troupe around your room?” Alan asks. “Were you hopin’ to skip out?”

“...mmm.” She doesn’t answer, and that itself is answer enough.

“Thought you liked the school?” he asks, leaning down to her. “Don’tcha think you should tell yer uncle if ya got any issues in school?”

Uncle? He’d said ‘guardian’ at first. Wonder why the distinction…

>Might as well talk to the girl a bit- maybe reassure her or at least encourage her.
>It’s not your place. In fact, you should probably make your goodbyes.
>Other

>>4419429
Yes.
>>
>>4419416
This makes me wonder is doing some physical training can help us sustain the effects of the spells for longer, or outright negate them. Or on the other hand, we could try to use more mana to achieve the same effect.
>>
>>4419442
>Might as well talk to the girl a bit- maybe reassure her or at least encourage her.
Least we can do for these new toys.
>>
>>4419442
>Might as well talk to the girl a bit- maybe reassure her or at least encourage her.
Yessssssss. Time to do some mischief
>>
>>4419442
>Might as well talk to the girl a bit- maybe reassure her or at least encourage her.
>>
>>4419442
>"Let's blow this Popsicle stand! You learn more when you leave school anyway!"
>>
>>4419442
>Might as well talk to the girl a bit- maybe reassure her or at least encourage her.
>>
>>4419442
>Might as well talk to the girl a bit- maybe reassure her or at least encourage her.

>inb4 we created the person that will topple our boss
>>
>>4419459
Or her most loyal minion! that would be a pretty neat change of events
>>
>>4419442
>>4419446
>>4419447
>>4419452
>>4419454
>>4419459
Well...all things considered, she’s been nice enough to you. You could at least give her some words of encouragement before you left.

Although...you have to admit, you’re not entirely sure what KIND of words of encouragement. Your mind’s running through possibilities, even as you walk up to her and put a hand on her shoulder. You could encourage her to tough it out, knowing the schooling would make her stronger. Or you could encourage her to follow her heart, even if that means leaving the school.

Heck, you could probably try to influence her to look at that strange trader; goodness knows he seems smart enough (and is likely powerful enough) to teach her a thing or two, uncle or no uncle.

By the time you’ve opened your mouth, though, as she morosely looks back towards you, you know what you what to say…

>Convince her that keeping her chin up and toughing it out through school is the best way for her.
>Convince her that learning by doing and striking out into the world would be the best choice for her happiness.
>Talk her into perhaps taking her learning to a more personal bent; point her towards the weird- but knowledgeable and powerful- trader.
>Other
>>
Last for tonight. Think it over. I need to get to bed.
>>
>>4419480
>Talk her into perhaps taking her learning to a more personal bent; point her towards the weird- but knowledgeable and powerful- trader.
Probably he's also the only way she'll survive the new world after we are done with our mission
>>
>>4419480
>Talk her into perhaps taking her learning to a more personal bent; point her towards the weird- but knowledgeable and powerful- trader
>>
>>4419480
>Talk her into perhaps taking her learning to a more personal bent; point her towards the weird- but knowledgeable and powerful- trader.
>Whisper "Know this: learn hard, like you're preparing for a war. It will be surely needed."
>>
>>4419480
>Talk her into perhaps taking her learning to a more personal bent; point her towards the weird- but knowledgeable and powerful- trader.

I see "striking out into the world" as a compromise between school and dark secrets. Not that dark secrets isn't optimal for her survival, but I think her legal guardian might object if we immediately point at the creepy shady merchant. That being said, time to prove we're a bad influence.
>>
>>4419495
To be fair, only we know that the merchant is a bad influence and only because he saw our crest. I'm pretty sure he'll teach rena the shadow king's way is the most subtle way possible
>>
>>4419480
>Talk her into perhaps taking her learning to a more personal bent; point her towards the weird- but knowledgeable and powerful- trader.
>Tell her that she must study hard - so she could be prepared to strike out into the world in the future. And she shouldn't put that away for too long, schools and mentors don't have all the answers.
This girl needs a good friend and some real life lessons, but yeah, not dying comes first. I feel like if she stays with the trader guy for too long she'll turn into a delusional edgelord with no life experience and mismatched skills.
>>
>>4419495
I think "striking out into the world" is the option where she tries to tag along with us.
>>
>>4419480
>>4419488
>>4419580
I'll take both of these boss.
>>
>>4419580
Its not like she was going into a different future with her cirrent path.
>>
>>4419480
>Talk her into perhaps taking her learning to a more personal bent; point her towards the weird- but knowledgeable and powerful- trader.
She'll benefit most from being on the winning side.
>>
>>4419488
>>4419580
+
Might want to replace "like" with "as if" for a more flowery/formal feel.
>>
Writing shortly.
>>
oh before i forget, what's exactly Operation Z1? i tried to find info about 4X, but i found nothing.
>>
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>>4420792
It's an extremely sturdy anti-magic drone thing that is resistant to spells and physical force and can ruin any mage's day should it get close.
>>
>>4419480
>>4419482
>>4419485
>>4419488
>>4419495
>>4419580
“Y’know, leaning in a school isn’t for everyone.” Well...considering what you’re up to, she wouldn’t learn nearly enough in time to really thrive in what’s coming. “Some people are better with personal instruction. Like me. I learned what I know from trial and error, and traveling with one man.” Not quite accurate, but she doesn’t need to know that. “You might be the kind of girl that works better when things aren’t so...rigid?” you shrug.

Alan gives a strange, but thoughtful face. “Eh...hm. Iunno if I like the idea of lil’ Rena here runnin’ off with strange folk, even fer education. Would prefer her closer, really.”

“But...that wouldn’t be any good, either...” she complains. “I just want...well, to be somewhere not there. It’s very…” she stops, hesitates as she can’t seem to find the words for all her prodigal intelligence.

“Now, now, all’s well,” Alan says gently, patting her on the head. “Look, we’ll talk about it a bit more later, huh?”

“Well, no reason to not at least get started looking around,” you mention. “I know a fellow here who’s pretty skilled- he’s a merchant and explorer. Sells relics, a bit full of himself, well-dressed but only sits on a carpet and is very bombastic-”

“You mean Relo? That ridiculous fop?” Alan asks in surprise. Ah. So he’s known here.

You shrug. “I suppose. Brown hair, slim goatee?”

“That’s him. Now that I have a ‘ard time believing,” he says as he puts his hands on his hips. “And he’s been telling you he’s skilled an’ whatnot? Might JUST go ‘ave a talk with him. See if he can put ‘is money where ‘is mouth is.”

“Tonight?” you ask in surprise.

“Nah. Tomorrow. Got some honest shoppin’ to do today, not to mention me an’ Rena need to talk,” he says looking down at her. She looks...hopeful, at least.

That’s about all you think you can do for her. What happens next is up to them. You need to get back on the move anyway...and find out where that next Lockstone is.

'Indeed, girl,' the whisper of the Shadow King says to you and you alone. 'I expect great things from you, and that doesn't include playing with fool children.'

He doesn't have to bug you about it...

>Action?
>>
>>4420797
ok that explains it, because the image attached does absolutely nothing to help me understand what those things were.
>>
>>4420792
Large mana draining drone Owlia made when we first met her fighting for Cylica. Nearly took Lorelei out from mana drain, I think.
>>
>>4420792
Flying drone-like thing that hunts magic users and freezes them into statues. It has a faulty targeting system so it doesn't recognize friend or foe. X4 also had great protection from combat spells and light firearms. It's somewhere in thread #20-24, when we were deployed by Dynamic Methods to silence anti-air cannons.
>>
>>4420799
This is a hard on one. Either we hunt a cult or

> Try to tag along with Alan to find Avio/Relo (the merchant) again.

This guy is obviously in the know.
>>
>>4420799
> Use Gartoum to scout for info
Do this too >>4420814
>>
>>4420799
>Check the Fairy Temple, see if you could find clues about the location of the next Lockstone there
Bah, the write-ins didn't pass.
>>
>>4420799
>Time to make inquiries about local holy sites and legends.
If the northerners set up a magically fortified castle/crypt, I can't imagine the others are any less protected.
>>
>>4420799
>The Guilds and the guards should be the obvious ones to have info. The temple too. Send Garto to scout betweent he guard while we check the guilds, surely the way they are numbered there must be a history or exploration guild somewhere.
>>
>>4420799
>Check the Fairy Temple, see if you could find clues about the location of the next Lockstone there
>>
>>4420822
Eh i would avoid the fairy temple even if it's the most obvious place it's also the most dangerous if people figure out what we are.
>>
>>4420824
Wouldn't be easy to go after the guilds? it's said they do practicaly anythign there must be some historian guild or something around
>>
>>4420839
Yeah I'm not keen on getting near the temple too. We're not on a timer (yet) to do risky moves like that.
>>
>>4420799
>Use Gart to scout for info from the guilds or something.
>Try to tag along with Alan to find Avio/Relo (the merchant) again.
Get some info from a historian.
>>
>>4420799
>>4420836
Send Gartoum to tail the guards while we check out the guilds gets my vote.
>>
>>4420844
>>4420845
or we can find the merchant again. Whatever passes. But sending Gartoum is a must.
>>
>>4420799
Fine, switching to >>4420814
>>4420820
>>
>>4420847
Personally I think it'd be better to not rely on Gartoum, I suppose it doesn't hurt to ask him if he's recovered, but there's some dangerous intrigue going on in the intersection, I can't imagine a better time to practice sleuthing.
>>
>>4420814
>>4420844
>>4420855


They're not going to the merchant tonight.
>>
>>4420865
Oh, hmmm well we check out the guilds tonight then. Then we go to the merchant tomorrow? Even if we find something good I still want to meet the merchant to confirm things.
>>
>>4420865
Okay, forget about >>4420855
Back to going to the temple
>>
I believe the temple wins, along with sending Gartoum. Writing.
>>
>>4420878
Oh nooo...that's going to suck. I guess we migth end up burning something in the end.
>>
>>4420883
Well, at least we're not sleeping in there. Can enhance our hearing for easy eavesdropping. No heavy sneaking or touching anything light-attuned.
>>
>Visiting the temple of our Boss enemies.
>>
>>4420883
It's a fire temple, burning is good
>>
>>4420890
>While wearing our boss's cloak that he told us doesn't work on light users.
>>
>>4420886
If the temple doesn't have any charms to prevent dark entities or dark magic os passing i will be surprised. And i think our boss cloak could be dark magic. Maybe the ping could be reconized too. But what's done is done. Worts it comes we are burning a temple today.
>>
>>4420896
Fire and light are not the same thing
>>
>>4420892
>Ironic.png
>>
I feel like this is one of the first blunders that will lead to another spaghetti situation. Seriously, a fairy temple? Hope the dice gods can prove me wrong.
>>
>>4420904
Did you forget that there are charms to prevent shadow magic or creatures like Garto to walk around? Well as i mentioned hopefuly the temple here is in hubris thinking to be untouchable
>>
>>4420909
I think people forget how magicaly advanced this world is. Hopefully the excessive charms or protection was more of a northern thing.
>>
>>4420910
>>4420909
Handler has offerd to go to the temple at least twice if not more, it's not an auto fail, come on. What's with all the whining?
>>
>>4420922
It's more of an unnecessary risky move anon. A lot more chance to fail for the same amount of reward.
If this goes swimmingly sure? But if this fails and we have to go loud, I'm blaming you.
>>
>>4420931
Sure, I'll even put a name on for the rest of the thread if we fail here. But you were moaning as if we've already failed.
>>
bah, at least get Gart out to scout the area or eavesdrop on guards.
>Going to an enemy area with this advanced magic
Haha bleach spaghetti v2
>>
>>4420964
also hide the shadow sun pin, can't have them get more clues
>>
>>4420931
dude, we ARE competent enough to not trigger an auto fail. you don't need to fret as much.
>>
>>4420971
Can we hide the pin? I thought it was the magic disguise thing.
>>
>>4420983
We can hide the pin, it's the cloak that hides our nature.
>>
>>4420799
>>4420822
>>4420838
>>4420873
As you walk off, you allow yourself some time to get relatively alone down a sidestreet before you whisper to your ring. “Gartoum, you up?”

“Hmmm?” He sounds...normal, you guess. “Yes, yes. I must admit, that little stunt of yours took it OUT of me, though, he fires back in your head. “I’d really hope to not have to suffer that again anytime soon...”

“No,” you affirm. “We’re going to be doing some scouting. I’m hoping you can get some information on the next Lockstone location. Try snooping around the major guilds; they might know something in the way of rumors,” you decide. “I’ll be elsewhere,” you note.

“Hmm...suppose I can do that much,” he agrees, and you lean against the wall flat to let him loose around your hand and in the shadow. He slithers off, and you kick off the wall and head off. You SHOULD be able to find that temple without too much issue…

Eventually, you find the thing. Alabaster white, with a large domed roof and a pair of statues of a long haired, much more standard fairy look- two pairs of large wings, short antennae, but an overall human look, in a simple yet elegant fitting dress. Guess that must be Yuyula. As you step up, a bit of concern washes over you. If this was what you thought it was, you might be…

“Oh, hello there.” You quickly turn to your right, to see someone in white robes standing before and a smile on their face. You SWEAR he wasn’t there a second ago...but then again you weren’t paying 100% attention...but... “Greetings, child. What brings you to the Temple of Yuyula? Have you come to pray, perchance?” He’s older and the wrinkles in his face are pronounced around his smile, but aside from that, you can’t tell anything else about his person. “If you don’t mind my saying, I’ve not seen your sorts around here before- but we welcome all those who might be interested in the faith.”

...How do you even explain this...

>Well, I’m just touring...what’s the temple like?
>I don’t know much about the faith, and so I got curious. Could you explain?
>I’m not sure about praying, but...I guess I could use some reassurance?
>Other
>>
>>4420990
well, that was fast.
>I’m not sure about praying, but...I guess I could use some reassurance?
>>
>>4420990
Sniff first? Old monks are worrisome.
>I’m not sure about praying, but...I guess I could use some reassurance?
Maybe he'll mention how the world is protected by the fairies providence and we get a clue.
>>
>>4420990
>I’m not sure about praying, but...I guess I could use some reassurance?
>>
>>4420990
>As you step up, a bit of concern washes over you. If this was what you thought it was, you might be…
If this isn't a giant red flag then I don't know WHAT is.
>make up an excuse that we got lost and then disengage.
>>
>>4420990
>I’m not sure about praying, but...I guess I could use some reassurance?
>sniff him
>>
>>4421002
Actually no I take back that Sniff request, I just considered the context, that's a WEIRD first reaction to sniff.
>>
>>4421016
Not really, we sniffed the merchant who sold us the two statuettes. Just got to cover up our cough, though, so maybe see if there's some incense being burned.
>>
>>4421029
or maybe we can do...a normal sniff? or something more passive?
>>
Writing.
>>
>>4420990
>Other:"Sorry i got lost i will be leaving." leave
>>
Welp it happend the way i expected to happen. Time for Spagetthi v2.0
>>
>>4421065
That might be true unless we hide out pin in the bag of holding along with the clast and we play the stupid girl role as straight as possible.
>>
>>4421065
Literally LITERALLY all we have to do is not go anywhere near the temple. Even wandering around accomplishes more than this.
Actually why did boss even take the temple option? It was a close vote and there are two other anons against it.
Yes I'm buttfuck mad, sorry. We're so close to have a second undetected snatch but they have our scent now.
>>
>>4421065
I hope it's just small talk and walking away afterwards.
Seriously, what info would the monk give us other than known knowledge of "fairy powerful", "fairy protect land" and "fairy made of mana"? with the added consequence of the monk being suspicious.
We could just have gone to the guilds and research there without worry!
>>
>>4421072
I was the temple too, not feeling this one myself. I thought going to the guild was going to win.
>>
>>4421012
>>4421063
Panicking doesn't help, let's think through our next vote instead of running away screeching. It's not a fail yet.
>>
>>4421084
Easy to say when YOU voted us into this. Handler warned us that this job is harder so I do not want to take any chances.

Can we get a revote please Boss? It was really fucking close, anons are against it. I know it's disrespectful but this one is divisive.
>>
>>4421084
I ain't panicking, just annoyed.
Again, what will the temple and monks give us to help find the lockstone? They won't admit that shit to a random girl so it's fucking nothing.

>>4421090
just calm down anon, we can vote to fuck off afterwards. The situation is not yet fucked
>>
>>4420990
You make yourself look as awkward as possible...which isn’t that awkward, really. “I’m not sure about praying, but...I guess I could use some reassurance?”

He sighs good-naturedly. “Ah, don’t we all desire reassurance in life. One of the greatest gifts that few get. Come with me, child, and I’ll see to your troubles, whatsoever they may be.” He takes you by the hand, and, unfortunately, you can't really see a way to not go with him without looking even MORE suspicious. So you accept it. Nothing happens. So far so good. He gently leads you past the gates-

‘TAKE THE CLASP OFF, GIRL, NOW!’

-and you unpin the clasp just as you see a wisp of dark smoke come from it and stuff it into your bag. You still have the cloak, but it seems to not signify any damage or otherwise being done to it, at least…

Great. You’re not sure what you’ve gotten yourself into, but you don’t think you like it.

(Done for tonight due to encroaching headache. Will resume tomorrow.)
>>
>>4421084
Wow, idk anon but you just failed this run with your vote. That's an accomplishment.
>>
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>>4421096
Hahahahaha
JUST
>>
>>4421096
I DEMAND A REVOTE. THERE ISN'T A SINGLE REASON IC MIRANDA WOULD DO THIS.
>>
>>4421096
Well, we're a star girl, our skillset has light-themed spells - the situation is salvageable. Sorry for the trouble.
>>
>>4421106
Yeah if we can do this I want a revote too.
Normally I don't but.
>>
>>4421107
Y'all aren't the cause of the headache. I think. Pretty sure. I'm not that annoyed.
>>
>>4421098
Calm your tits, it's not the end of the job. Maybe the sneaky way of snatching the lockstone is out of the picture but we can still burn and plunder our way through like a dragon should.
But yeah, I admit, my bad.
>>
>>4421098
>>4421106
I'll be honest, i wanst expecting the monks to immediatly get us before we even set a foot near the temple, but look:
we only have a narrative rider and if push cones to shove, we can blast our way out of here. The best thing we can do right now, -specially because we dont have any kind of dark energy emmanating from us- is to play the role of the stupid chosen one; we dont have memories of our past here, we only have had this cloak with us and we felt a strange pull towards this place.
When the fairies see through the cloak, they will only see a confused dragon girl and if they are greedy and arrogant(which they probably will) they will squabble between themselves to see who will get us under their control. that will be enough distraction for us to gtfo to another city
>>
Instead of wasting time to find clues for the next lockstone, we're gonna waste time trying to get out of this fucking temple! Good job.

We could just say "oh no I'm late for my appointment with someone! Excuse me!" later.
>>
>>4421106
>>4421109
Could we not, please? I agree that this wasn’t the best idea, and no, I didn’t vote for it (or at all, due to real life), but begging for a recount in a game like this brings up a precedent for other players to request it in the future. It sucks hard, but we might get further opportunities to learn about our client’s enemies, find the last statuette for our collection, or learn of a secret passageway for a later invasion. Just chill out a bit.
>>
>>4421120
You never know what kind of information you can get in a temple like this one, specially after we captured the lockstone. I bet that if we activate our hearing we can learn a juicy secret or two about the location of the other stones, how much time it will take to reinforce the locations, or something along those lines.
>>
>>4421123
Agreed.
Besides, bleach spaghetti was blown out of proportion as The Dumb Thing. The end result wasn't even that bad.
That and I'd hate to force Handler to retcon and rewrite something, even if the votes were miscounted.
>>
>>4421123
IF WE DON'T DO IT NOW WE'LL REGRET IT LATER. I will not let our first job of the season be muddied by such an outrageously STUPID move.
We should've never been here in the first place. So instead of thinking of ways to salvage please speak up your mind to have a recount. It was even miscounted ffs.
Look, I'm aware that I'm being petty, and I have a big reason to.
>>4421130
>The end result wasn't even that bad.
Anon, lemme tell you something. WE FAILED, we didn't get the full payment because of our mismanagement. That's the closest job where we got the closest to officially failing. It's a meme for a reason.
>>
>>4421133
Buddy, I didn’t get my choice of mission when we were choosing jobs. Guess what? I shoved aside my dislike for what was chosen, and I moved the fuck on.

It sucks. It really does. But the vote was cast and this choice brings up new options that I’m sure Handler can do justice to. Miranda will do what she’s always did before and handle it to the best of her abilities.
>>
>>4421133
>Anon, lemme tell you something. WE FAILED, we didn't get the full payment because of our mismanagement. That's the closest job where we got the closest to officially failing.
Nah, that one still goes to when we were a cosmic horror training a magical girl team. The mafia world was pretty by the books until the army appeared for no cause that could be traced to us.

And redoing a post is dumb anyways, you need to learn to roll with the punches; again, we only have a narrative rider; the shadow king doesnt really care how we get his stones back.
>>
>>4421133
Oh, and you forgot that the real reason why we didn’t get the full payment from the Bleachgetti job was because Handler rolled to see if the authorities cottoned onto our client’s family and a subsequent riot later on, not because of the assassination of one family lieutenant on a list of them.

That’s the nicer option. I’m giving you that one for the benefit of the doubt.
>>
>>4421150
Fine, I'll roll with it. I'm calming down now.
I actually prefer stealth (haha Miranda being stealthy) since we did so well last stone and I thought we could do that again. I will stand that this is still a massive setback, even if we're not caught red-handed. Worst comes to worst, we get to burn and loot the temple.
>>
Before everyone forget, magics affecting the mind exists in this world. And we're right in the smack dab middle of a religious playground. Remember that old job where they have a brainwashing room in their facility?

Yeah, I'm not a party pooper but I'm not staying here. Can't even get our mana tinfoil hat up without being caught in the act.
>>
Good job to the idiots that decided to go to the temple.
>>
>>4421255
The best thing we can do now is just cope with our lost and vote to fuck off after this. I'm slapping down anything dumb like this in the future.
>>
>>4421219
>>4421255
Listen, I've already apologized. Options to visit the temple kept popping up, so I thought Handler has prepared something interesting there.
Running away right at this moment will only make everything worse, we've already passed their first test - the gates. We can bullshit our way through if we pretend to be lost and confused and mislead them with some of our light-themed techniques like sun flare and light trap. Let's roll with it and see if we can find a silver lining >>4421123 >>4421128
>>
>>4421276
*mislead if necessary
>>
>>4421276
What did you think that would happen anon?The option to go to the slaughterhouse is there, doesn't mean that we should go there. We went from not even bothering to explore the first town to walking straight into a fairy church. Not to add more fuel to the fire, I'm going to be realistic here.

>“If you don’t mind my saying, I’ve not seen your sorts around here before- but we welcome all those who might be interested in the faith.”
This monk is light-attuned.
We exposed our true form to a light-attuned agent of the temple. He didn't immediately go into alert mode, so here's hoping.
Normally if it's a regular joe we can just silence them, but we can't do that here unless we want this to escalate into a real global manhunt.
>‘TAKE THE CLASP OFF, GIRL, NOW!’
This with the smoke, we might have exposed our shadow boss's connection to fey's holy grounds while we don't even have the second stone yet. I REALLY hope our rewards don't get docked for this grand embarrassing display.

We can salvage this as always, but damage's done. I suggest not trying to do a Lori impression out of the deal.
>>
>>4421422
I expected to get near the temple grounds, see if anything is happening in the area, talk to the people who work/live near it and get some info that guild people might not know, maybe spot some clergymen or workers leaving and tail them.
You know, not getting instantly spotted as soon as we get close.
>>
>>4421428
*as soon as we get to see it.
>>
>>4421428
>You know, not getting instantly spotted as soon as we get to see it.

Alright you have a point there, this is way too sudden of a blindside.
If this is Handler throwing a curveball then we'll just have to play along. Just need to sell our act of a curious and innocent drifter. The monk not being hostile is a huge huge plus.
>>
>>4421219
I think we have our anti mind mind control hairpin in the bag of holding
>>
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>>4421527
Need to have Handler confirm that first.

It's time to give this skill a work out. I accept no more compromises, can always make out an excuse later if they are curious. We activate AND maintain this throughout all the trip.
>>
>>4421532
I'm pretty sure that the google docs anon can do that for us. his info is mostly spot on.
>>
For a second i though we had lost the pin from our boss but now i see we threw it in our bag. Good i was afraid we would lose the way to speak with our mount.
>>
>>4421428
I think people just assumed the charm and wards we saw in the northen kingdom was just a cultural local thing and didn't stopped to think that at least the church would have similar protection against shadow magic and creatures like Gart and our boss.
>>
>>4421774
the idea(at least from my POV) was to scan for charms, traps and whatnot before getting inside. if the magics seemed too potent we would get away, but at least we would have an idea of what to expect. the monk literally popped outta nowhere... which is good information, but it threw a massive wrench into our plans.
>>
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>>4421797
The docs don't explicitly state that the pin is in our bag or not, only that we have it.

Handler, is the Jewel Clip currently in our bag or not?
>>
>>4422021
just like with the gauntlets and the swords and most of our weapons, it sounds rather foolish to not have the pin in our bag, don't you think?
>>
>>4422043
It is. But the clip is classified as a clothing item so I'm a bit iffy on that.
>>
>>4421532
I agree we should employ this technique, and if we feel a mind whammy trying to break through, we evac through a wall.
>>
Writing shortly!
>>
>>4422426
Time to burn a church.
>>
>>4422465
>>4422465
If they're gonna stop us that is.
Let's just be dumb baby mage vegabond for now and try to quickly fuck off
>>
>>4422472
I mean, Vagabond. Fucking typos.
>>
>>4421096
The inside of the place is...well, fancy, but not. Same alabaster stone, fancy wooden pews, but no stained glass- just normal windows. Instead, there’s a massive statue of that same fairy as outside, this time stretching her hands to the sky as though she’s trying to give something away to someone much taller. “Welcome to our temple, young one. Here you may be comforted in the grace of the Fae. I am Lain, humble acolyte of the faith.” He gives a small bow. “And what might your name be?” You pause for a second, thinking about whether it might be a good idea to give him your name or not- it’s probably not, but if you don’t- “Although, in thinking about it, names are not necessary here. What matters lies within, don’t you think? After all, many have gone by multiple names, yet the same soul resides no matter what. So perhaps ‘Lain’ is merely what I am called, and not what I am.” He’s smiling like he’s making a joke, but he’s looking up at the statue while he’s doing it, likely wrapped up in a memory. “So then. What is it you need reassurance of? Perhaps a trial that lies before you? Or perhaps something you have regrets of? Or something else, perchance? There is much the faith has to say, and to teach.”

Hm...could you swing this to your advantage somehow? Maybe…but you’re not sure how smart it’d be to stay with a man who worships the exact opposite element that you’re technically aligned with. Not that he seems to have said anything about it so far...

>Ask about what the faith says about...repeating history. You’d heard some lore about a shadow king…
>Ask about traveling hardships. Maybe you can guilt trip something out of him.
>Other
>>
>>4422483
>Ask about traveling hardships. Maybe you can guilt trip something out of him.

Don't bring up anything involving this "Shadow King" weirdo you know nothing about.
>>
>>4422483
>Ask about traveling hardships. Maybe you can guilt trip something out of him.
>>
>>4422483
First things first,
> Activate and maintain Mental Barrier (>>4421532)
> Equip Jewel Clip if we have it in our bag.
If we're deep diving, we need a proper helmet.

>Ask about traveling hardships. Maybe you can guilt trip something out of him.
We're putting a mind barrier up because our will has been stolen before.
>>
>>4422483
Supporting >>4422488
>>
>>4422483
>>4422494
Let's do this. It's not even a lie.
>>
>>4422488
>>4422497
Misquote yikes. But you get what I mean.
>>
>>4422483
>Try that Mental Barrier trick. Or equip the Jewel Clip if we have it
(worried he might already be mind-reading us since he immediately backed off on the name. Though maybe he just read our expression?)
>Ask about traveling hardships. Maybe you can guilt trip something out of him.
>Surreptitiously sniff
There're an awful lot of monsters on the roads of late.
>>
>>4422483
supporting >>4422501
>>
>>4422501
>>4422488
>Monsters
>Trust issues due to being mindwhammed before
>Loner most of our life
3 out 3 is lads.
>>
>>4422501
Actually, I would like to stipulate if we're using the Mental Barrier NOT to do a danger sniff, I would like to not explode Miranda's head.
>>
Hm. Righto. Writing.
>>
>>4422508
Funny thing, this is mostly true for our real identity as well, hah!
>>
>>4422515
We can seek life advice while on the job, it doesn't HAVE to be about the job. Actually, you know what, the dark lord can't hear us right now, we could ask whatever we want.
>>
>>4422483
>>4422488
>>4422494
>>4422499
>>4422501
You shrug, making it halfhearted as you can. “Well, I guess it’s more about...what’s ahead?” you mumble, trying to make yourself sound as ‘young but not whining’ as possible. “There’s been a lot of monsters on the road lately, an’ well...it’s been rough. I feel like I don’t know where I’m going, just...that I’m going.” Not entirely untrue. “Feels like it’s been forever, in fact. And it’s been fun sometimes, and scary others. I’ve got people I care about, and people that care about me, but I don’t see them for ages at a time because I’m traveling so much...and some people I haven’t seen since before I...left. I guess I’m wondering if- well, maybe not if they miss me,” you admit, just kind of running on instinct now. “But how they’re doing. I can’t get in contact with them, so all I can do is wonder if they’re okay. If they’re living happy lives. Maybe lived, I dunno. And even beyond that, just...what happens if I DO go back one day and they aren’t there? Does that mean I just...leave again? Was all my worrying for nothing? I-” Wait, what the FUCK are you doing talking to this random about it? He can’t-”

“It sounds like you miss them,” he says solemnly. “Tell me...why did you depart in the first place?”

You eye him carefully- he’s got a neutral expression on. “...I had to. For them.” You don’t elaborate.

“Mm...so you left to ensure their safety?” He nods lightly at his own words...which frankly, you’re surprised you admitted. Why the HELL... “Indeed, I can see why these thoughts persist. And they are no bad thing. After all, to care for one's friends and family is most noble. Even and especially at sacrifice to oneself. It is a disquieting thing for the mind to deal with.” Oh, wait, speaking of... “But know that Yuyula respects and honors such sacrifice- it was and is such that protected us all in the dark times, after all.” He pauses as you finish rifling through your pack. You’d forgotten about this little thing- it was an article of equipment, but...the jewel clip doesn’t seem to be much different here, if any. “Ah...a keepsake?”

“In a way,” you allow as you clip it on and feel your mental shields go up. Already you feel calmer, more like you’re used to now that you’re blocking any possible mental manipulation out. You’re not sure if it WAS mental magic or a placebo, but whatever, you’ll take it. “But either way, I guess I’m just hoping that I’m going the best way for me, y’know?”

He nods. “Naturally. For what it’s worth, you strike me as a strong young lass. Doubt envelops you, but it does not direct your steps. I believe that you shall be well, so long as you walk in the light, and remember that you never step alone, for Yuyula is with you.”

Doubt that. Extremely. “Well, I guess…”

>Roll 1d20, best of 3.
>>
Rolled 14 (1d20)

>>4422561
>>
Rolled 9 (1d20)

>>4422561
>>
Rolled 3 (1d20)

>>4422561
>>
>>4422562
See? if this were spaghetti 2.0 that'd have been a 5 or something
>>
Rolled 3 (1d20)

generic 14
Rolling just to see my result
>>
>>4422571
It's not a 15 but I'll take it. I consider one less burned temple and us not being kicked out of the city a decent salvage.
>>
So our girl still has the tendency to ramble about her past. Have to let the steam out sometimes no?
>>
see everyone? we got something better than job development; *emotional development*
>>
>>4422582
Miranda getting life advices from a friggin man of cloth is not something I expected.
>>
>>4422586
those unironically -short of an actual psychologist- give the best advice
>>
So was us opening up the stress getting to us, that dude charisma or mind fuckery? Probably fae glamour now that i think about it.
>>
>>4422590
To bad this dude and the temple will eventualy be burned/destroyed once the shadow king raises
>>
>>4422590
Yea, I mean, that's why most common folk in this setting would come to the church life advice.
>>4422591
Might be some minor mind magic that churches pass down to make the pastors more approachable and compel people to confess doubts and or crimes.
>>
>>4422592
eh, in miranda's line of work they are a dime a dozen. nothing to worry about.
>>
>>4422593
>Might be some minor mind magic that churches pass down to make the pastors more approachable and compel people to confess doubts and or crimes.
Goodness, imagine if we haven't voted to put the mindshield up.
>>
>>4422604
its probably the stress she's feeling, her century long guilt and having to ad-lib shit what's happening to her right now.
>>
>>4422596
Well at least Miranda knows that the afterlife is real. So long his souls is okay he will probably go to those fairy worlds.
>>
>>4422604
I get a flashback to Tales of Berseria priest confessions. Particularly Velvet's.
>>
>>4422561
>>4422562
>>4422564
>>4422567
He chuckles a bit. “Well, perhaps it’ll take some time to understand. It certainly did for me. I was in a dark place for a great deal of my life before coming to understand Yuyula and her kindness. But, perhaps I can offer a token of my assurance. And a little push to help you,” he winks. “Just a moment.” He turns to leave down one of the halls, and you seriously consider just bailing on him right then and there. But...well, nothing’s been trying to get at you yet, at least.

He returns, and you can tell something’s in his hand- he reveals it to be some sort of large, white coin with an imprint of some sort of winged symbol. “This is a Holy Charter Coin- Yuyula version, that is. S’free lodging and a meal for any inn or eatery what follows a Church of the Fae; we all have respect for each other, so it’ll be accepted anywhere they are.” You take the coin respectably- you have to admit, that sounds VERY useful. “Now, if it’s traveling you’re worried about, there’s an old fable I rather enjoy that you might appreciate. It’s-”

“Acolyte Lain!” a high, youthful voice calls out. You both turn to see a young adult female, in full robes, and looking only slightly peeved. “So, this is where you ran off to…” she eyes you, and sighs. “Terribly sorry, miss, but this one ran off in the middle of cleaning duty. He really should be back at it- perhaps we can address any woes you have with a clergymember more experienced?” she asks softly.

“No thanks,” you quickly decide. “He helped plenty.” You’re already hopping off the pew and headed for the door. “I appreciate the assistance.:

She seems surprised at that. “O-oh. Well, then, that’s good to know. Er, Acolyte Lani…” NOW she seems nervous.”If you wouldn’t mind…?”

“Right, right…” he nods, before waving you off. “Remember what I told you!” He says as way of farewell, and you only sigh once you’re out of the temple’s oddly stifling air.

(cont.)
>>
>>4422643

Crossing the threshold, you put the clasp back on, an-

‘FOOL GIRL! THAT COULD HAVE OUTED US IN BUT A MOMENT! AN ARMY WOULD HAVE BEEN MOBILIZED. HAVE YOU NO SENSE!?’ Geeeez he’s loud. Not Angry Sal loud, but still loud. ‘But at least you are not dead, despite the fact that I sense the taint of LIGHT on you. Blech. I shall overlook this once, considering my sore need for agents. But do NOT travel into that damned Light Fairy’s place of worship ever again!’

…Right. “As you say, sire.” you return mentally.

‘Good. Now, resume your hunt! I desire that next Lockstone unleashed!’ Pushy. Also possibly worried. Hm. Gartoum isn’t back, either.

“I’ve got a construct scout doing his own investigation. It’ll take him a bit to return, if that’s okay,” you ask.

‘Ghh...Very well...but be on your way tomorrow morning! If this area has no way to divine the Lockstone’s location, you must look ELSEWHERE.’ Oy, fine, fine…

>Just wander for a bit. Maybe you’ll find something interesting happening this evening…
>Might as well wrap it up for the night. Find that quiet spot from last time…
>Call Gartoum back early; might as well so you can get out of here.
>Other

(Later than I thought. Will continue tomorrow.)
>>
>>4422645
>Other
>Investigate the Learning Hall
maybe we can find some history books
>>
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>>4422645
Boss is pissed as expected, but at least our pay's still the same.

>Investigate the Learning Hall
We go there, if we don't find anything we'll meet the merchant next day.
>>
>>4422645
>Investigate the Learning Hall
>>
>>4422645
He'll forgive us when we vaporize an army for him. Hopefully.
It was a foolish risk, as I think everyone has acknowledged in hindsight. We learned that holy wards don't detect us, so that's something, and we got a free lodging coin out of it, that's one night we wont have to spend in a crack in the wall.
>Investigate at the Guilds for clues to the Lockstone's location.
because I need to be specific to prevent more surprise church visits.
>>
>>4422661
Nah boss wants us out tomorrow morning we are leaving in the morning.
>>
>>4422645
>Investigate the Learning Hall

>>4422666
the only rider he has on us is the narrative one, satan. so he has no reason to dock our pays when we deliver the lockstones
>>
>>4422666
Gart is alreadys couting the major guilds. The learning Hall was were we were guided to find info
>>
>>4422645
>Investigate the Learning Hall
Good coin, but I'll be cynical and assume they can track us through it.
>>4422666
Gart's already on the guild m8
>>
>>4422674
>Good coin, but I'll be cynical and assume they can track us through it.
but what about the other one we have? i'm pretty sure we can use it for the same purposes but with a different guild/sect/religion.
>>
>>4422674
Right, we did send him to the guilds
>>4422666
swap to
>Investigate the Learning Hall
>>
Speaking of learning, we've got some serious study aids with us
>“Experimentation with the substance known as ‘Seither’ is currently ongoing. It has been determined to grant heightened mental processing speeds for a brief time, as well as allowing for quicker mana flow through the body, allowing for increased casting speeds in magically inclined beings. I have been instructed to warn that the substance has been determined to have low-to-mild addictive qualities in strongly magical beings as well. I believe Technician Harkin described it as ‘like a serious shot of extra caffeinated coffee, but with a crash at the end’.”
I think we should try those Synth-Seither pills next time we work on our techniques, maybe it'll give a bonus to our dice roll.
>>
Okok, I know we're beating a dead horse now but

> ‘But do NOT travel into that damned Light Fairy’s place of worship ever again!’
Boss just confirmed that we walked right into the church of the Elder Fairy of Light, out of all elements. Yeah, that's about as dumb as it sounds, should had researched the Elder Fairies' names beforehand.

Now, we know even a ward of a Light Temple can't decloak us, so we should be able to get into the temples of other elements without issues (and with our boss' consent, hiding the clasp). This is good info, we didn't come here for less than nothing and I love it.

>>4422692
Good idea.
Pills for everyone on the next SES training day!
Not too many though, because drugs.
>>
>>4422700
Light Fairy might be the bosses catch-all term for the fairies he hates.
He-he, is our boss a Dark Fairy? That's absolutely precious if so, and we should do our level best to find out without him(?) knowing.
>>
>>4422711
Oh ffs it's the "Edgy sister hatching a plot to overthrow her siblings" isn't it. We have to drop some snark lines when our boss regains true form.
>>
>>4422700
We also got proxy info that the medallion that we got from the other guard can give us extra privileges, hell, we could even use it to pass as a lockstone guard (if we're lucky enough, that is)
>>
>>4422718
Whoa, hey, that sounds unprofessional, save the snark for if they try and backstab us.
>>
>>4422645
>get out of view and scan the coin and ourselves, since the client is detecting light magic.

then I'm leaning
>learning hall
the general locations of the lockstones might be common knowledge, but we can't just ask.
ideas for useful, but not too suspicious or too long information:
-ancient history, then look for the event that got him sealed?
-holy sites?
-large fortresses?
-living legends we might have to fight?

risky: show the clasp and ask what the symbol means?
>>
>>4422719
Maybe we should use the Learning Hall to find out more about the medallion.
>>
>>4422885
searching for legends about the location of the lockstones might give us some results; we should also go for the lockstone that is farthest away from us right now, just to throw off course the fortification plans the light might be making up.
>>
>>4422645
>Investigate the Learning Hall
Looks good, might find some hints on places where one might hide a stone that locks power away
>>
>>4423335
What? No. Why?
>>
>>4423335

I say that doubling back would be best even more now that we know about our friendly travelling merchant. It would prevent them of fortifying even more and would force the good guys to come chase us toward South.
>>
>>4423335
>>4423587
What, are you going to tell them that we're going to the South? It's in the desert, we'll need to pass through areas with other climate zones, it will take more than one night to get there - we will be there before their forces can even reach it but not before the news about us spread all over the continent - meaning they'll know they won't make it to the desert in time and would focus on protecting the Lockstones we haven't found yet and hope that the southerners could buy them enough time. And the 'good guys' are not one entity but several independent kingdoms - it's much easier to play defensively. They are not some group of adventurers that just can just go on a merry chase and forget about everything else. Mobilizing an army and waiting for envoys to explain that they are not planning an invaison but trying to help other countries would take too much time, don't count on them commiting to the idea of chasing after us.
>>
>>4423625
And if we won't make it to Almina in time, they'd finish whatever business they had with their rowdy neighbours and might start cracking down on the cultists, so we won't be able to contact merchant's friends.
>>
>>4423130
yeah, that's a good idea.
>>4423579
because they will first fortify the lockstones that are the closest to the ones that disappeared. they won't expect us to go for the one that is the furthest away.
>>4423587
....yeah, i think you definitely got a point there. its better to have the places somewhat fortified instead of having the last lockstone insanely defended.
>>
>>4423625
You are speaking as if these people don't know were the lockstones are. As far as we know there could be a group in charge of securing it in the desert like a sultanate or something.
>>
>>4423645
>>4423635
Every country that has a lockstone is going to guard it, I know that. I'm talking about other countries' reinforcements.
>>
>>4423652
exactly, that's why >>4423587 makes sense. the armies that didn't manage to protect their lockstones will probably be rerouted to the other locations, plus whatever other reinforcements that they mange to get. In that case, its better to keep them moving in an attempt to stop us than to make them fortify a single place; although i feel that will happen anyways. but in that case we'll nebula bust them and that's it.
>>
>>4423635
They expect us to get all the lockstones, there is no specific order in which we should be getting them, so there's no sense for them in prioritizing 'the closest' to such degree, all of the them should be fortified and reinforced.
>>
...Speaking of visiting places, anyone else thinking about finding out where Saberlane's located, in case we pass by it and have enough time or money to buy/steal some of their products?
>>
>>4423653
If we can make it in time, we can get to Almina before they switch gears and focus on protecting their lockstones instead of their neighbors. Before Drogan can mobilize it's forces and send reinforcements. And then we move to the desert.
If we go to the desert, Almina's is going to be fully mobilized and it's lockstone is going to be reinforced with troops from Drogan and Elerta (mountain guys).
We don't know where the fifth lockstone is, it's too far for our boss to locate with his senses, so it's going to be reinforced by everyone in the end anyway.
>>
>>4423660
we could try scanning some maps in the library and see if we'll pass the city in our travels.
>>
>>4423635
>>4423645
Right, gotta clarify: we should get the Lockstone in Drogan first, then move to the next ones.

Right now the situation is:
>Elerta (mountain guys) - mobilizing and already sending reinforcements to other countries
>Drogan - clueless
>Almina - busy with Balunda, has cultists in it
>"Sultanate" - clueless

If we get Drogan's lockstone, the situation would probably be:
>Elerta - mobilized, reinforcements have probably reached Almina's lockstone, on their way to the fourth and fifth lockstone.
>Drogan - starts mobilizing and prepares to move but due to the belligerent nature of their empire might take time to get approval on moving their forces on other countries' lands
>Almina - starts switching gears, the cult is still there
>"Sultanate" - might get the warning from Elerta, but no reinforcements
So I think we should move to Almina after that, the only ones reinforcing it will be Elerta's mages

If we go to the desert now like >>4423335 suggests, then by the time we find it:
>Elerta - reinforced Drogan's, Almina's and fifth lockstones
>Drogan - Defends it's own lockstone, gets approval to move it's troops. Might not make it to Almina's lockstone but will reinforce the fifth one.
>Almina - finishes it's business with Balunda, focuses on lockstones, might crack down on the cult
>"Sultanate" - mobilizes and starts sending reinforcements, they will guard the fifth lockstone in both cases
Drogan's and Almina's lockstones are reinforced by their army + extra reinforcements from Elerta. Drogan has the strongest military and Almina has light magic, so we'll be giving the strongest guys the time to build up their strength.

The fifth lockstone will be the most protected anyway, why do you want to skip Drogan's lockstone as well?
>>
>>4423706
I'm going to assume by the time boss gets the third or fourth stone he'll have enough power to raise some troops or cast some global spells.
Anyhow, no doubt we'll need to get to Alminia to connect with the cult. We'll be fighting real armies by the time we get to the last stones so more bodies are needed.
>>
>>4423706
i don't even know how close those countries are relative to us, so that's why i'm preferring c/XXSqVi 's plan at the moment
>>
>>4423654
We are talking mostly of troop movement. We were at the North were we got the first lockstone. Them we came here to the east, we should go tot he west because the troops up north could reinforce the people in the West while we are here looking for the lockstone in the East.

>>4423706
Okay i think we had a sligthly miss comunication but now i get what you mean and i do agree with you. We should go toward Almina once we get the lockstone in Doran.
>>
>>4423727
I'm kinda curious and want to ask him if the tales of him creating the orcs of this world is actually a thing. If it's, Boss was pretty powerfull.
>>
>>4423750
>>4423727
don't we need to deliver the lockstones to him first? i'm pretty sure that we still have the first one in our bag. and on that note....wouldn't the armies try to amass themselves in the shadow king's to get him before he regains full strength?
>>
>>4423754
>Thinking quickly, your knife cuts and slashes- and fortunately, it DOES seem to be doing the trick, if in a few cuts. The magic the chain has is gradually siphoned away, and the gouges deeper- until one more cut snaps the thing entirely, and it’s left floating in the air. ‘Now, reach for it, and claim it in my name!’

>...right, sure. But as you do, you notice a dark light emitting from it, and for a moment you’re worried- before there’s a flash of light, and when you recover, you see the stone, far smaller. You reach out and take the thing, finding it able to fit in your palm, but still black as void. Excellent. ‘Ahahaha! Yes, YES! Now, you need merely call your steed and abscond. A most auspicious start, my agent!’
>‘I care not, so long as they are brought to me in due time,’ he scoffs. ‘However...with this new influx of power, I can sense a stone...far to the south, somewhere amidst the dunes. Again, that is the extent of what I can detect.’ Right, then… ‘Be wary. I’ve no doubt that now that one of their precious Lockstones is taken, it will be noticed. They will fight back.’

We just have to claim the stones, don't need to deliver it straight to the starting point. Obviously he gets more powerful for each stone taken.
>>
>>4423754
They don't know it's the shadow king i think? We are indeed still carrying the first lockstone but as he said he would need all the five stones to recover it's power. Just from releasing the first one he got enough to sense another lockstone.

I cannot tell if people would go toward his place if all the lockstones were missing. But if they do we can have the cult gather whatever follower the Shadow King still has and protect him.
>>
It could also be that they will take some time to organize and make a decision on what to do. Good thing that communications in this world doesn't look to be that well developed yet.
>>
>>4423754
then we need to get to the cultist, no? I don't think we can cripple Drogan due to the sheer size of it, but we did injure some of Elerta's battle mages so they can't be sent out for a while and maybe the cult can help us with hindering Almina's efforts. Are people still up to the idea of using Seither to poison mana sources/artifacts? You know, war crimes aren't committed just for the lulz, they have a purpose.
>>
>>4423767
>‘I care not, so long as they are brought to me in due time,’ he scoffs.
It seems like he still needs to come in contact with the stones to regain their full power

>>4423778
The lockstones are missing. for what other purpose you could use them, but to revive the shadow king? its like saying that some nuclear launch codes are missing, but they could be used for something else.

>>4423786
well....alminia will definitely get us potential allies, but on the other hand we're already in drogan. ok, we definitely need to learn more on the rest of the kingdoms before we make our move.
>>
>>4423793
>>4423786
>get to the cultist AFTER we're done here
>>
>>4423793
>The lockstones are missing. for what other purpose you could use them, but to revive the shadow king?

When Miranda got the first one it showed it still had some power in it. It could be someone wanted to gather the stones to increase it's own power, not exactly the shadow king itself or his agent.
>>
Don't forget, for armies we have the Buster. It has enough AoE to wipe out an entire squadron of airships.
>>
>>4423706
Right, might need to mention this: there are other opponents who are not a part of any country - the Fairy Faith Church could have some inquisitors and there's also that weird medallion with a symbol that might suggest an existence of some Holy Order. With THEM the tactic of bypassing some lockstones and going for the others might play out since there was no mention of militant arm of the church so if they have some secret branch they don't have the numbers, same with the order. BUT they need to learn of us first and prepare a plan, so I don't think we'll have to worry about them so soon.
>>
>>4423837
fair enough, but if i were them i'd also send some soldier divisions to protect the shadow king's resting place and to contain his energies. better to be safe than sorry.

>>4423842
This gives me an idea; we should makes some false flag operations. we get some insignias from another city and we leave some of them at the next stronghold that we loot. even if they don't buy it, that should make them divert some resources to not defending the lockstones.
>>
>>4423849
>we get some insignias from another city and we leave some of them at the next stronghold that we loot
I approve of this. Get some Balunda insignias and plant them in Alminia's lockstone place.
>>
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>>4419106
>Vivasa
Come on now, miss "not a narcissist anymore".
>>
>>4424002
...we should change our name from iva to that
>>
Writing shortly. Seems like we're going to the learning hall.

...They're all night owls anyway.
>>
>>4424057
Taking bets on meeting familiar faces over there.
>>
>>4424044
Well, 'Vivasa' has 'Iva' right in the middle of it, so maybe the latter could pass as a contraction? Makes sense, eh?
>>
>>4424066
yeah, probably. i just want more reasons to confuse the fairies
>>
>>4423854
I approve of false flag operations. How about stealing guilds' or knights' insignias or just draw a random sign to confuse them and cause strife between them.
>>
>>4424113
Nonono, for false flag ops sometimes less is more. We can plant an (partially ruined) insignia in a dead doorstop guard's hand to make it look like she nabbed it off in a last ditch attempt to point out the culprits.
>>
>>4422645
>>4422653
>>4422661
>>4422665
>>4422671
>>4422674
>>4422679
>>4423432

Hm. It’s late- nearly twilight. If there’s anything else you’d want to do, now would be the time, actually…

And something obvious hits you, that you probably should’ve done earlier, but...well, hell. A place called something like the Learning Hall probably has more than a few night owls. Now, where was it again…?

When you find it, the sun’s gone down, but the Hall is, as you expected, still active, judging by the numerous people walking around inside that you can see from the glass doors. As you step in, no one seems to even glance at you. You take this time to take the place in- and it seems like it’s some sort of combination museum and library, with racks of books in gold-trimmed wooden shelves, and plaques and statues dotting the floor. It’s lined with carpet, and directly to the back of the large room, you can see two staircases, one going up and to the left, one going up and to the right. Set between them is a receptionist area here it’s manned by a rather tired looking Wildling who seems to barely be stopping herself from nodding off at her desk; why she’s all the way back there, you’re uncertain. To your right is a door that leads to another room- from what you can tell it’s got a number of paintings in it and historical etches. To your left you can just see the opening to a hallway that seems to have a weapons display.

>Talk to the receptionist.
>Head through to the right doorway.
>Head through to the left doorway.
>Other
>>
>>4424132
>Talk to the receptionist.
Ask her something before she sleeps for real. And we can take advantage of her current state to get her to blurt out something sensitive too.
>>
>>4424132
>Talk to the receptionist.
>>
>>4424132
>Talk to the receptionist.
>>
>>4424132
>Head through to the right doorway.
>>
>>4424132
>Head through to the left doorway.
>>
>>4424132
>Talk to the receptionist.
I'm really fucking mad at myself for forgetting about the Learning Hall.
>>
Receptionist it is. Writing.
>>
>>4424132
>>4424134
>>4424141
>>4424142
>>4424157

Well, the poor girl looks like she’s most of the way to dreamland- might as well see if you can’t get anything out of her before she hits city limits. When you get closer, you can see her headfur’s matted, her eyes are blery, and despite the fancy robe she’s wearing, she’d probably feel more comfortable in a nightgown right now. In fact, when you approach her, she doesn’t even seem to notice for a few moments, her head bobbing in that oh-so-common way everyone’s does when they’re just about out of gas for the day. “Hello?” Nope. Nothing. “Hey, you there?”

You snap your fingers in her face, which causes her to jolt, blinking and looking up at you with wide but near bloodshot eyes. “O-oh! Hello there, welcome to the...the Learning Hall. We’re free for, uh, use proviiiiiiiiii-” the spiel turns into a massive yawn for a moment. “Oof, sorry. No, uh. w, uh...we provide free research and observation materials if you’re a member of the guild, if not, it’s a two large copper fee to...to uh…” she blinks, then smacks her cheeks, trying to wake up. “Two large copper to browse the first floor an’ two to...browse the first...and the second...” She’s already bleary eyed again as she pushes forward a tablet. “Then you just...write your name down here an’ ...then a badge and that’s it.” She’s barely focusing.

...wait, did she say two for both?

>Pay full price anyway and write your ‘name’ down.
>Just pay the two. She won’t know in time, by your estimates.

Anyway, if you have questions, you doubt she’ll be up for many. One, MAYBE two at this rate…

>Questions?
>>
>>4424177
>Pay full price anyway and write your ‘name’ down.
>"Here, looks like you'll need this more than I do."
Leave her a Sweetsap.
>>
>>4424177
>Pay full price anyway and write your ‘name’ down.

Questions: where can we find
>Books about the local holy sites and legends (Fairy related)
>Books about Endomagic.
>>
>>4424177
>Pay full price anyway and write your ‘name’ down.
better to not leave any suspicion. and write Vivasa in the name list
>>
>>4424177
This >>4424181
Give a sweetsap too. Use Iva, Vivasa can wait till we get to the next town
>>
>>4424177
>>4424181
+
>>
also for simplicity sake, lets have the farsight scan the books and we'll read them later.
>>
>>4424177
>Pay full price anyway and write your ‘name’ down.

>Questions?

Ask about sections/directiosn were you could find a depiction of holy sites and some historical books possible some religious writtings and a geographic session.
>>
Rolled 8 (1d10)

>>4424179
>>4424181
>>4424183
>>4424191
>>4424196
>>4424199
Neat! Writing, and rolling for certain effects. Higher is better.
>>
>>4424202
Alas, what would Miranda do without the voices in her head?
>>
>>4424202
>Rolled an 8
She be trippin?
>>
>>4424203
she'd probably still be bitter in her room, not talking a lot to izumi and lorelei
>>
>>4424177
>>4424202
You sigh, and shake your head. “I was just looking for where religious writings might be,” you mention as you fork over the money- three large coppers and one small silver. She’ll have to make change. “Like for the fairies. And maybe a bit about Endomagic.”

“Both on...on the second floor,” she says as she takes your money lethargically. She blinks slowly at the silver, before frowning and giving a quiet sigh, and ducking under the counter as you write your name. “They’re some...somewhere in back.” You can hear a slight groan come up from her for whatever reason. She pulls herself back up with effort, and she opens her mouth to say something, before she blinks to see a Sweetsap mushroom on her desk. It takes her a few seconds to register it, looking back at you.

You just shrug. “You look like you need it.”

She blinks once, twice...then just gives a tired sigh, sliding the silver back to you, along with a thin, square wooden pass with a wing and hammer symbol on it and a date written on it. “S’only good for...for th’ next day,” she mentions as she takes a bite of the Sweetsap and puts it under her desk. “Thanks for youpatronage…” the last bit kinda slurs off as she finally gives into to her exhaustion and folds her arms under her head, closing her eyes. You take a couple more seconds there just to make sure, but no, her breathing’s steady, and you wager this girl will be dead to the world for some time.

>Current local funds: 5 small silver, 7 large silver.

As for you? You have some research to do.


>>4424206
It was essentially if you got a 'too tired to give a fuck' discount. She would've had to make change and that's for people who AREN'T running past fumes.
>>
Also, I'm ALSO done for the night so I can sleep.
>>
>shes dead asleep
Aight lads, time to steal something useful. Most of these people will be gone by time we're done with the job anyway
>>
>>4424238
why steal when we can literally scan all the books? unless you mean a physical piece that they have here? in that case we should hide until they close and we end with the place to our own devices.
>>
>>4424238
They must have an alarm system, but scanning with futuresight is always free.
>>
>>4424246
>>4424248
I sometimes forget how absurd the Futuresight is in terms of utilities.
>>
>>4424177
>Pay full price anyway and write your ‘name’ down.
>Books about the local holy sites and legends (Fairy related)
I don't think this girl will need a sleeping aide.
>>
>>4424269
oops, ignore
>>
>>4424238
Nah, scanning everything we need is good. We should also get to scanning the maps we bought. Maybe we can call on Gart if he found something while we research.
After getting enough scans/info we should exit the city by going to a very shadowed area and having Gart transport us outside.
>>
Speaking of scanning
>>4408185
>Induction Orb- Fragile. Sphere conducts and converts mana to high-energy variable mana. Integration with current mana signature is highly possible. Estimated approximately 1000 Mana capacity, discharge is total. Over injection of mana not suggested.
We're at 10800/11000 mana right now and regen per night here is 2000 - we can refill the orb and still have max mana tomorrow. Oh, and don't forget about using mana condenser, last time the vote didn't pass.
>>
>>4424276
We should also be looking at what other types of magic is practiced here, military info of countries and history of shadow king. If there is time for it.
>>
>>4424283
What the hell is high energy variable mana? AC/DC current comes to mind, but that only leads me to believe that we can cast any spell with a different kind of mana, like a magiblast with fire mana or dark mana
>>
>>4424304
>high-energy
Miranda has monstrous mana cap, usually people we meet have like 1000-3000 mana. High-enegy likely refers to it's capacity - mana crystals that we have can hold only 250 mana.
>variable
Probably means it could be used to power all kinds of spells. Like, mana reactors can power only magical equipment, not people.
>>
>>4424312
>variable
Or that user's mana affinity doesn't matter, it could be used by fire mage or a psion with same efficiency.
>>
>>4425171
i still feel its more like a transformer and a voltage converter. you input "human" level light mana into the orb and you can output 1000..."dragon" level fire mana
>>
>>4425171
>>4425179
>(Must donate a total of 1000 mana. This increases the potency of one skill when the orb is full. All 1000 mana is discharged upon use.)
I just know that we can donate 1000 mana to the orb and use it to beef up a Buster(oof) or a Flux Wave. The orb is then emptied and we need to charge it up again.
>>
>>4425188
>The orb is then emptied and we need to charge it up again.

Or breaks after being used. Don't forget that the FutureSight mentioned it being fragile.
>>
>>4425230
I think it can break only if the difference between technique's manacost and the amount of mana stored in the orb is too high.
>Over injection of mana not suggested.
But we can probably fix it with our gloves anyway.
>>
Not feeling the best tonight. Might get one post out, don't hold your breath.
>>
>>4425299
That's okay handler hppe you get better
>>
>>4425299
I'd rather we run in the future than hurt yourself forcing out one in the present.
>>
Feel better now. 100%? No, but close, like 90%.

Writing shortly.
>>
>>4424230
As for you? You have some research to do.

The staircases spiral up; you’re not sure if they go to different places, but doesn’t much matter. You take the left one, and it what it leads up to is...well, a large second floor, obviously. But it seems more like it’s for meetings and collectives than it was for general study, with a number of tables and chairs set out with boards nearby.

Now, you just need to find something worthwhile…

Your search takes you more than a bit; you recall she said either was in the back, but that’s pretty vague, to be honest...although, they’re at least good enough to label sections and alphabetize the books by section, which makes things easier...unsurprisingly, you’ve got to go to the Religious section for anything about fairies. There’s...a lot of books there. To the point where if you actually looked over everything, you’d probably be here all night. Considering you still want to look over Endomagic stuff, you’re going to have to make some choices…

>Focus on legends and stories; usually there’s more than a couple nuggets of truth in them, especially for your job.
>Stick to biographical knowledge and confirmed information; no need to get bad intel intentionally.
>Get a variance of either- won’t be as in depth for either, though.
>>
>>4426794
>Stick to biographical knowledge and confirmed information; no need to get bad intel intentionally.
>>
>>4426794
>Stick to biographical knowledge and confirmed information; no need to get bad intel intentionally.
Consistency often trumps potential.
>>
>>4426794
>Stick to biographical knowledge and confirmed information; no need to get bad intel intentionally.
>>
>>4426794
>>Stick to biographical knowledge and confirmed information; no need to get bad intel intentionally.
If we want to do a false flag operation, we definitely need those books.
>>
>>4426794
>Stick to biographical knowledge and confirmed information; no need to get bad intel intentionally.
What's taking Gart so long?
>>
>>4426808
i don't think that much time has passed; two hours at most. that's definitely not enough time to do a good recon.
>>
>>4426794
>>4426801
>>4426805
>>4426806
>>4426807
>>4426808
Better to stick to the biographical stuff and information that’s been confirmed; don’t need to worry about possible misinformation. Some time passes, but you’re able to get a few books down. You can’t read all of them overnight, but you can skim through, check tables of contents, and see what holds up…

After a couple of hours of research, from what you can tell:

The fairies are a race that aren’t secluded, but neither are they particularly social. They tend to stick to nature and not civilization, though it’s said they have a decent relationship with Wildlings. They’re made of mana, as you know, and apparently they are capable of adjusting their form and size over time and at will; most common is a human variant, due to the influence of Yuyula, who was one of the first to take such a form. They consider themselves guardians of life and nature, and abhor destruction for the sake of it. Every fairy can use all types of magic spells, it’s said, but most tend to specialize. Intelligence, however, varies like any other race, and fairies that prefer civilized life and commiserate with humans regularly do exist. Fairies, being constructed mana and not flesh and blood, don’t get naturally hot or cold, and most weather conditions don’t affect them except rain and wind.

Fairies are VERY magic resistant, but are capable of impressive output when pushed; they recognize this, and so tend to lean towards peaceful interaction with most individuals, even at threat to themselves. This has given fairies a reputation as peaceful, all-loving beings towards most commonfolk. There is also a stereotype that they’re weak- this is true on a pure physical level, but even this can be mitigated with the proper magic.

(cont.)
>>
>>4426891
Fairy society is very loose, with most fairies tending for themselves not long after birth, but has SOME semblance of organization; if there is a situation that requires multiple fairies to handle for whatever reason, that fairy can attempt to call a ‘Fairy Circle’ using heretofore undetermined magics- it sets off an alarm in every fairy’s head in a wide radius to gather in a specific, preferably private location where things may be discussed. Generally, such issues are resolved not by vote, but by charisma- the fairy that called the Circle presents their case to the collected fairies, who then decide whether or not to assist in whatever said situation is. The only exception to this is if the Fairy Circle has as a guest or is called by an Elder Fairy- then, the Circle is subject to the Elder’s decision. The Elder Fairies specifically are claimed powerful and long lived enough to be considered deities to many people, and it is a hot topic of debate if they really are or aren’t.

The Elder Fairies, in particular, are said to be some of the strongest and oldest fairies still alive. They only rarely directly govern, except in cases of the aforementioned Fairy Circle and extreme situations. In the case of multiple Elder Fairies in a single Circle, the decision is decided more diplomatically, with each Elder making their case, and the individual with the most followers being the victor, in which case all other fairies, Elder included, fall in line.

The Elder Fairies at the moment are as follows:

Sylathi - Elder Fairy of Water. Particularly capricious and flighty, but also very strong.
Mobambo - Elder Fairy of Wind. Similarly, he has great joy and anger in equal measure.
Malamund - Elder Fairy of Wood. Motherly and humorous, but also can be cold and vengeful.
Anga - Elder Fairy of Fire. Hotheaded and powerful, yet hard to control.
Yuyula - Elder Fairy of Light. Said to be the strongest Fairy in existence, and a nascent Goddess.

Hm. Nothing about the Lockstones, though...

>Roll 1d20, best of three.
>>
Rolled 19 (1d20)

>>4426894
>>
Rolled 18 (1d20)

>>4426894
>>4426896
Wow looks like I don't need to roll then.
>>
Rolled 10 (1d20)

>>4426894
>>
ok...so don't engage the fairies. got it.
>>
...Well then. Neat!

Writing!
>>
>>4422711
So yeah, post above confirmed my feelings. That we walked into the temple of the Elder Fairy of Light without any additional protections whatsoever.
>>4426900
We save Flux Waves for those encounters. We'll confront some of them eventually.
>>
>>4426905
>That we walked into the temple of the Elder Fairy of Light without any additional protections whatsoever.
we were on a recon mission to see what kind of things we could from a safe distance. its not that we walked in; a monk literally appeared to guide us into the temple before we could make a move.
>>
>made entirely out of mana
>physically weak, can only rely on spells

Prime Z1 material right thar.
>>
>>4426913
i theory we could also...snipe them and/or stab them.....god, we must bring ivonium in all of our next travels.
>>
>They tend to stick to nature and not civilization,

Well i guess now we know what to expect in the desert...
>>
>>4426900
One of the lockstones is located in the desert i wouldn't be surprise if the fairies have a all fairy force protecting one of the stones.
>>
When should we put our complete outfit back on? The disguise we were provided by the client should sufficiently hide us, and the requirements to be a dragon girl were quite strict, I worry what flaunting the system by taking bits off might result in.
>>
>>4426927
>When should we put our complete outfit back on?
when we get out of town
>>
>>4426927
after we leave the city. If the guards on the village were shitting themselves by just talking in our direction, having that kind of aura here will definitely alert the wrong kind of people of our existence.
>>
>>4426894
>>4426896
>>4426897
>>4426898
You continue flipping through the books, trying to figure out SOMETHING. There’s gotta be something somewhere about some historical gathering or odd building or something…

...aha!

There’s something in one of the general history books about several of the Kingdoms...Drogan apparently has some kind of massive building called the ‘Grand Fortress’, a military compound that’s highly secretive. They publicly claim it’s simply a training and housing grounds for their military elite, but it seems as though a local legend has cropped up that they keep ‘magical superweapons and experimental devices’ in there as well. No one not of Drogan military has ever set foot inside, supposedly.

If ever there was a place to hide and secure a Lockstone…

Now, then, what about Endomagic? You’ll have to go to the other side, you think.

>Stick to basic books.
>Keep it to intermediate books.
>Why not? Go for the advanced books.
>Maybe you can skip this. Not like you really need it...
>Other
>>
>>4426958
>Keep it to intermediate books.
>>
>>4426958
>Keep it to intermediate books.
>Why not? Go for the advanced books.

>Scan the books with Futuresight
BOTH.
>>
>>4426958
supporting >>4426963
>>
>>4426958
this>>4426963
scan basic books too
>>
>>4426958
>>4426963
+
Can trade the data to Izumi and Lorelei too since they have their own Futuresights. Lori'd appreciate Tongue-tie...
>>
>>4426963
>>4426958
this
>>
>>4426958
Ugh, nodding off. Will resume tomorrow, ideally in the early afternoon. See you all then.
>>
>>4426978
Roger that. Thanks for the run.
>>
>>4426958
>>4426963
>>4426965
>>4426966
>>4426968
>>4426972

No need for the basic stuff here, you suppose. You’ll focus on the more detailed intermediate and advanced books; the stuff you could likely really use here, if not use as inspiration elsewhere. They’re not on this floor, however...chances are they’re up the other staircase.

Deciding to scan the books for future knowledge, just in case you need to reference them again, you head back down- the numbers have sorely thinned, and with the receptionist out like a light, you’re practically the only person in here, save for maybe one or two others you can hear walking around elsewhere. You’re honestly not sure if you’re locked in or not, come to think of it…

But, well, you’ll figure that out eventually. For now, you decide it’s best to just continue to focus on what you came here for. Now, you need to find the Endomagic based books…

...although that’s not NEARLY as difficult. There’s a great deal of them, for intermediate and advanced usage, and on a number of different topics, such as theory, history of educational facilities that specialize in Endomagic, history of Endomagic in general, baseline practices necessary for advanced techniques, and of course a deal about techniques- though you notice they don’t go into actually explaining HOW to do said techniques and more about the effects.

You’ll scan a few of these, for sure, but there’s at least one that strikes your interest immediately…

>The Breath of Life- A Study in Endomagical Defensive Executional Theory (It seems to be about defending against Endomagical effects from outside sources…)
>Within and Without: Endomagic Edition (A catch-all book about endomagic’s general negative effects on the body for casters)
>Endomagic: The Magic of the Past, the Magic of the Future (a general history tome about Endomagic and theoretical techniques.
>Shatterpoint (This seems to be a semi fictitious novel apparently ‘based on seriously researched theoretical techniques and presented in entertainment format’).
>>
>>4428155
>The Breath of Life- A Study in Endomagical Defensive Executional Theory (It seems to be about defending against Endomagical effects from outside sources…)
>>
>>4428155
>The Breath of Life- A Study in Endomagical Defensive Executional Theory (It seems to be about defending against Endomagical effects from outside sources…)
>>
>>4428155
>Within and Without: Endomagic Edition (A catch-all book about endomagic’s general negative effects on the body for casters)
>>
>>4428155
>The Breath of Life- A Study in Endomagical Defensive Executional Theory (It seems to be about defending against Endomagical effects from outside sources…)

and steal this one for later readings
>Shatterpoint (This seems to be a semi fictitious novel apparently ‘based on seriously researched theoretical techniques and presented in entertainment format’).
>>
>>4428155
>Shatterpoint (This seems to be a semi fictitious novel apparently ‘based on seriously researched theoretical techniques and presented in entertainment format’).

i like Star wars too.
>>
>>4428155
>The Breath of Life- A Study in Endomagical Defensive Executional Theory (It seems to be about defending against Endomagical effects from outside sources…)
This is a field that we know nothing about.
>>
>>4428170
And + on scanning Shatterpoint for past time readan'
>>
>>4428155
>The Breath of Life- A Study in Endomagical Defensive Executional Theory (It seems to be about defending against Endomagical effects from outside sources…)
>>
>>4428155
This >>4428167
>>
>>4428155
>>4428160
>>4428161
>>4428167
>>4428170
>>4428178
Need a roll. 1d20, best of three.
>>
Rolled 12 (1d20)

>>4428183
>>
Rolled 13 (1d20)

>>4428183
>>
Rolled 13 (1d20)

>>4428183
>>
>>4428185
>>4428186
that's...huh
>>
...Bleh.

Writing.
>>
>>4428192
At least it's something.
>>
File: Cité_de_Carcassonne.jpg (164 KB, 1920x541)
164 KB
164 KB JPG
>>4426958
so...should we expect something like this?
>>
>>4428215
>>
File: elvas castle.jpg (258 KB, 1024x768)
258 KB
258 KB JPG
>>4426958
...or this, cuz they've got guns and cannons and stuff
>>
>>4428215
>>4428219
I'm expecting something smaller with a portion of it underground. There are earth mages in this world.
>>
>>4428215
>>4428219
>>4428223
>>4428224

I really want to spoil it, but if you play your cards right, you'll find out for yourselves the size and everything.
>>
>>4428230
Now whose role is to safeguard the base's maps/blueprints and location?

If we find them, maybe we can pinpoint the exact room where they stash their LOOT.
>>
>They publicly claim it’s simply a training and housing grounds for their military elite, but it seems as though a local legend has cropped up that they keep ‘magical superweapons and experimental devices’ in there as well.
>housing military elite
>magical superweapons and experimental devices
Maybe we should Nebula it after getting the lockstone and looting a few of those experimental thingies. That should cripple Drogan's military might
>>
>>4428241
no; we should false flag it.
>>
>>4428241
There should be some kind of mana reactor in the base, we just have to aim for it.
>>4428244
I want to save the false-flag for Alminia because they're having a beef with Balunda, while Droga's neutral.
>>
>>4428246
...then we should see if we can blame droga's assault on alminia or balunda. that will definitely help us when we go to alminia
>>
You guys think we should store that pearl with the extra mana?
>>
>>4428244
I mean, these super weapons will be used against our boss' armies. It's much easier to justify the use of weapons of mass destruction against literal demons compared to other countries. And it houses their elite forces/generals. False-flagging just gives us more time, they'll still be as strong in the final showdown.
>>
>>4428250
I think it would be better to blame the attack of Alminia on the Balunda.
>>
>>4428252
Certainly. And we should activate the condenser too.
>>
>>4428253
Remind me again we can't take those superweapons with us like we did with the stuff in the Mech Apocalypse right?

But on that note that wouldn't ne our problem qe are here only to recover the lockstones
>>
>>4428252
I'm voting for it + mana condenser when we go to sleep.
Actually why don't we just doze off right in this library? Not like anyone will wake us up with the managing girl dead to the world. Can just blame our bad sleeping habits.
>>
>>4428254
this
We haven't been in Drogan proper yet, just their city-state puppet that claims they're 'relatively independent'. Maybe there are some insurgents and rebels from the lands this empire has conquered.
>>
>>4428254
that's the idea. on drogan we make it seem that balunda attacked them and then on alminia we also make it seem that balunda attacked them.

>>4428252
sure

>>4428253
by false flag i don't mean that we will leave the superweapons intact(if we find them) they will obviously be destroyed, stolen or converted into motes.
>>
>>4428155
>>4428160
>>4428161
>>4428167
>>4428170
>>4428178
>>4428179
The Breath of Life...sounds like a good idea to know some defensive measures to Endomagic, you figure. Or at least get some ideas on how to protect yourself, if nothing else.

The text proves pretty dry, all things considered, and it’s mostly academic knowledge of physiology combined with this world’s magic system. A lot of talking about reports and tests and experiments and whatnot. But still, it DOES give you an idea of a few things:

Endomagic isn’t always necessarily an actual ‘forced’ change in the body’s activity/structure; it more commonly leads the body to ‘rebel’ against itself by fooling both mind and body into reacting into something happening that isn’t. It can make the body believe it’s under a specific effect and then react to it. Hence the myriad of backlashes and side effects Endomagic tends to have. That said, there ARE effects that can ‘adjust’ the body temporarily, pretty much just as advertised. They’re never permanent, though, and always cause some strain when actively used. However, that seems to be the keyword- actively used. It’s not mind control, so if you don’t use the afflicted physical feature, then obviously nothing is affected. Furthermore, it seems that it’s possible to 'cycle your mana' in order to ‘flush’ the effect out of your body should you have enough mana to spare, and use it to ‘remember’ how your body was before the effect went into play. Kind of like arranging a backup of a data drive or maybe more forcing normality in it or something. They DO note that it’s not as easy to do as it sounds, however, and so far, the book doesn’t go into detail on exactly HOW to do it, either. Damn.

It’s soon there that you hear footsteps coming up the stairway- faint, due to your distance away, but still audible. “Hello?” A man’s voice calls. “Checking for any folk still in here- last call before we do our security sweep for the night. Last call, any scholars still in need to leave momentarily! Any left in will be turned over to the authorities!”

Oh, damn.

>Bring yourself up, ask if he can hold off for a bit longer.
>Leave now- don’t want to risk angering the guard over some books.
>Other
>>
>>4428261
>Leave now- don’t want to risk angering the guard over some books.
We're done here.
>>
>>4428261
>it more commonly leads the body to ‘rebel’ against itself by fooling both mind and body into reacting into something happening that isn’t. It can make the body believe it’s under a specific effect and then react to it.
Oh fuck, its the nocebo/placebo effect on steroids! that's SUPER interesting


>Leave now- don’t want to risk angering the guard over some books.
best to leave and begin planning our trek to the lockstone
>>
>>4428261
>Leave now- don’t want to risk angering the guard over some books.
Drats.
>>
>>4428261
>>Leave now- don’t want to risk angering the guard over some books.

>>4428259
...and why would Drogan think that Almina or Balunda would try something like that? The job info said that all nations are in relative peace except for these two. If you're looking for someone's flag to use - better find some rebels from Drogan's client states.
>>
>>4428261
>Leave now.
damn. we have to check our maps.
>>
>>4428276
basically to throw a political wrench at a national level and see any things that i might as well be blindsided to. after all, the best way to see your mistakes is to throw the idea to the public.
>>
>>4428261
>Leave now- don’t want to risk angering the guard over some books.
>>
>>4428259
>>4428276
It's a multiracial nation that has other countries/city-states and it's people that it's conquered or bullied into joining and assimilated. External threat would unify them, fracturing the empire is the way to go.
>>
>>4428261
>Leave now- don’t want to risk angering the guard over some books.
>>
>>4428265
>placebo/nocebo
Now I know why these spells can be shaken off with willpower alone. We should visit Saberlane to find how to mitigate straining and defend ourselves against em'.
>>
We out.

Writing.
>>
>>4428297
now i'm thinking if we can dress ourselves as a fairy and "curse" people.
We should definitely try to find out how fairies look.
>>
>>4428282
>>4428287
heck, maybe we can convince the rebels to join our side as well so that Drogan would be too busy with internal issues and putting down racial/ethnic uprisings and reigning in breakaway states instead of sending armies abroad.
>>
>>4428310
that could also work, but i don't know how much time it will take to find a rebel cell and then make them comfortable enough to work with us.
>>
Rolled 9 (1d100)

>>4428261
>>4428264
>>4428265
>>4428270
>>4428276
>>4428280
>>4428284
>>4428290
“Here,” you announce with a touch of frustration. You’d been damn sure they were open 24/7...but then again, you’d never confirmed that. Blah.

If the guardsman thinks oddly of a young girl being in here so late, he doesn’t show it. “Sorry, miss, we need to clear the place out to reset the wards, go over last checks, all that. Feel free to come back tomorrow, hm?”

“Thank you,” you say, though it’s with no real sincerity- you’ve got to get going tomorrow morning anyway. Now you just need to find a place to stay tonight…

You unfortunately don’t have much in the way of options tonight; there’s a patrol around your former hiding spot, which means that, eventually, you have to settle for essentially hiding in an empty crate behind a restaurant; you doubt anyone’s going to come get it in the morning, but even if they do peer in...well, you’re on your way out anyway.

Come morning, you’re feeling a bit cramped, but again, not the worst place you’ve slept.

‘Finally. Gather your minion, and be on your way, so that I may gather MINE.’

Wait, his?

As though sensing the question, he continues. ‘Naturally. Should you proceed in an acceptable fashion, I will grant you boons. Already the beasts are affected by my influence...but should the second Lockstone be removed, I estimate I may well be able to resume crafting some minions of old once more! We shall both of us benefit from that...’

Intriguing. Also tempting.

“Gartoum?” you whisper mentally. “You done?”

“Mmmm, yes.” he says airily. “Not a great deal, but I DID learn about some fortress up further into Drogan territory. Apparently supposed to be-”

“Heavy security, lot of rumors floating around?” you finish.

“The latter, yes, but as for heavy...the most interesting thing,” he counters. “Apparently, there’ll be a number of forces being exchanged in and out of the place...something about mustering up mobile forces for a long-distance march. Didn’t get where they’re going- so sad.”

“When’s the exchange?” you ask.

“Well, they’re moving out a number of their people in the next day or so,” he notes. “And the reinforcements from the capital itself will arrive about a day after that. Fascinating, no?”

Fascinating, yes. "Then it's time for us to move. Just need to see where this place might be..." Good thing you've got a map.

>Roll 2d20, best of three for travel purposes. My roll is unrelated.
>>
Rolled 17, 8 = 25 (2d20)

>>4428430
ooooh shit. that's a super low roll
>>
Rolled 8, 15 = 23 (2d20)

>>4428430
hmm
>>
>>4428430
...huh.

Well alright, then.
>>
Rolled 2, 3 = 5 (2d20)

>>4428430
>>
Rolled 13, 3 = 16 (2d20)

>>4428430
>>
wait, we should also ask the shadow lord if he wants us to deliver the first and second lockstones before going for the other ones.
>>
>>4428439
This. Might as well clarify whether we need to deliver the stones to the altar or not.
>>
>>4428436
We having another "Love interest discovers the mob boss's identity" situation, aren't we?
>>
>>4428439
>should the second Lockstone be removed
Speaks for itself. If he wanted them delivered he'd say so.
>>
17, 15. Cool.

Writing.
>>
>went to sleep
>didn't charge the orb
>didn't activate the mana condenser
Fuck. At least we're at full cap.
>>
Oh boy it seems the word about the lockstone being taken already reached the higher ups. Better double time it than.
>>
>>4428452
>>4428449
>“Well, they’re moving out a number of their people in the next day or so,” he notes. “And the reinforcements from the capital itself will arrive about a day after that. Fascinating, no?”
We can strike the next day when they've moved their troops out. Can charge the orb and the mana condenser today.
>>
>>4428454
We should also put on the rest of our outfit
>>
>>4428444
He probably hasn't thought about getting the lockstones early.
>>
>>4428430
>>4428432
>>4428434

You’ve put back on the missing parts of your outfit- they seem to mold back into you near seamlessly, and before you know it you’re dragonkin again. As you soar above the clouds, you’re busy checking the map; Gran Torun was in Drogan territory, but it wasn’t very deep in. According to this map and Gartoum’s own recon, though, the fortress was much deeper in; closer to the capital, and more than likely well watched and defended. Getting in in the first place is going to be a hassle if you don’t time it right.

There’s a small lakeside town, Daruna, that's a touch out of the way, but also the closest city to said fortress. Why it’s left there, you’re not sure, but it might be worth investigating in the little time you have- knowing how fast your pet travels, you estimate you could get there by mid to late afternoon. Otherwise, it might be best to land early and use the time to scout out the place as best you can- by all accounts, it’s in the middle of an wilderness area called the Thymine Forest that you’re pretty sure you haven’t reached just yet but should soon. That means that regardless, you’re going to have to land a distance away and hoof (claw) it if you didn’t want your bat to get blasted out of the air.

Oy, anti-air. Great when you’re doing it, not so great when you have to watch for it.

>Investigate Daruna, see if there’s anything for you there.
>Continue straight on to Thymine Forest, no detours or distractions.
>Other
>>
>>4428478
If he wants them extra early he can just send one of his new minions without distracting us from our mission. Don't worry about it.
>>
>>4428498
>Continue straight on to Thymine Forest, no detours or distractions.
>>
>>4428498
>Continue straight on to Thymine Forest, no detours or distractions.
fuck. its super tempting to have a detour, but we're on a timer
>>
>>4428498
>Investigate Daruna, see if there’s anything for you there.
We still have plenty of time before the next day, they might have some passing info about the fort.
>>
>>4428498
>Continue straight on to Thymine Forest, no detours or distractions

As tempting as it's to go to the little village i would rather grab whatw e came to grab
>>
>>4428504
Enough distractions. If there's free time, we can spend it working on our techniques or reading the new books we've scanned.
>>
>>4428498
>Continue straight on to Thymine Forest, no detours or distractions.
>>
>>4428498
>Continue straight on to Thymine Forest, no detours or distractions.
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>>4428498
>Investigate Daruna, see if there’s anything for you there.
Also, hand out some of that fruit we got to Gargles when we land.
>>
Straight on it is. Last one for tonight.
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>>4428568
New thread tomorrow then?
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>>4428498
No, you’ll continue on the Thymine. No reason to dally anymore; you’re on a deadline, and it’s not one you can miss. “Getting close. You might have to drop me off from a height. Just don’t get too close to the stone buildings, alright? Don’t want you getting hurt.”

A pair of chirps is the response, and you are at least glad it realizes what the issue is.

An hour or so and short in-flight breakfast later, you notice the trees getting denser, larger. There’s far more sounds of beasts and wilderness as you get lower and slower to the canopy...really, looking at it, it’s almost more of a jungle than a typical forest. You can already feel the humidity. But, it’ll be worth it- because if your directions were accurate? Then the Grand Fortress should be somewhere in here. You’re honestly surprised it’s not visible through the treetops- although shortly after that thought you realize that it’s smarter for them that it ISN’T. But there should at least be some kind of road, if only to make gathering supplies easier, right?

...Maybe not. These guys seem like they’re pretty particular about secrecy. “Right, then. Time to storm a fortress. After I FIND it, anyway...”

You slip off the bat’s back, crashing through the canopy easily and hitting the ground with a thud- and a bit of a splash...mud splash, that is. Lovely start, that.

‘Be wary,’ you hear your boss mutter. ‘Some of these beasts are wild and aggressive, even without my influence.’

Naturally. Sighing to yourself, you begin your tromp through the Thymine Forest, in the search of the Grand Fortress- and the next Lockstone.

(done, new thread tomorrow indeed!)
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>After Miranda left Gran Torun...

> "Mmm...so that's what's happened, eh? Our mages sensed something...off."

> "Indeed. The fact that the Lockstone was stolen bodes quite ill. After all, if it was selfish power they desired..."

> "Yes...we must find out who did this before the others are taken, as well. I will keep my men on close watch."

> "Can you not reinforce them? With the situation at hand..."

> "Mmm..."

> "Sire!"

> "...I will attempt communication, but I can promise little more."

> "...that'll have to do for now, then. If you'll excuse me, I'm off to continue-"

> "Hold a moment...I've a request."

> "Yes?"

> "...take the boy, here. He's a strong one, quite adept in swordplay, and has a just heart. Perhaps his strength will prove useful in your efforts."

> "...!? I- are you sure, my lord?"

> "Indeed. I can think of no nobler purpose that would make your father proud. Go with her."

> "I...yes, my lord! I'll make you and father proud!"

> "I thank you for your graciousness, sire."

> "No...this is for the protection of us all. Go with my blessing, and be well."

>...

> "...Alright...so what first?"

> "Gather any supplies you might need from the market. Make sure you're well equipped. The journey will be a long one, and dangerous."

> "...yeah, I guess that one was obvious. Where are we headed, then, oh sacred guide?"

> "Well..."
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>>4428702
Ooooooooooh here comes the hero!
Let's see if our girl is savvy enough to snipe him instead of engaging in an honorable duel.
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>>4428706
It doesnt matter. We're way too ahead of them.
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>>4428664
>You slip off the bat’s back, crashing through the canopy easily and hitting the ground with a thud- and a bit of a splash...mud splash, that is. Lovely start, that.
DEJA VU
IVE JUST BEEN IN THIS PLACE BEFORE
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New thread!

>>4429379
>>4429379
>>4429379



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