>>4484948
Hermann the Prime-Biotic
Body: Your body is exceptionally thin, coated in a layer of lean muscle and taught tendon. This makes you exceptionally agile+5 checks but means less internal fat, leaving you with vulnerable organs+5 to crit you. Your natural biology means that you have thin skin-5DR and fragile muscles-5DR, but your stronger+5DMG and heal faster1.1Xregen.
Prime-Biotic Unique: Multiply mutation-60minutes

Mutations-Physical Ability: 1(+5 checks/DR/DMG)
Shapeshifting
Regeneration+10regen
Flesh Shaping+flesh shaping pool=HP
-Flesh shape armor+10DR
Ultimate-Survivor+5 DR, +100HP
-Flesh shape stats X2
Undying^^3Xregen

Magic Circuitry-Magic Skill: 3(+15 checks/magic DMG)
Level 1 Creation Circuity(Clone)
-Auxiliary circuit(True Clone)
Level 1 Negation Circuitry^^(Stasis)
-Auxiliary circuit(Reaction): parameters for activation not set
-Auxiliary circuit(Range-Volume)

Curses/Immortality
Curse of Slumber
+4 year surplus. (-7 days)
Curse of Sight

General Skills
Basic Circuitry +5 checks
Shadneel Scavenging

Gear
Backpack
Waterlogged Wood(Magic)
Steel Axe
Iron Sword
Lantern(Kin and regular)
Camping gear
Scorched Rock(Magic)

http://suptg.thisisnotatrueending.com/qstarchive.html?tags=k8+the+8
>>4445977

Past threads. Putting this here for the QM

>>4484948
Archived thread, because I'm to impatient to wait for the thread to fall off the board.
http://suptg.thisisnotatrueending.com/qstarchive.html?tags=k8+the+8

>>4484954
It's appreciated.

>>4484948
>Tell me. What's something only a friend of mine would know?

>>4484948
>Tell me. What's something only a friend of mine would know?

>>4484948 (OP)
>Tell me. What's something only a friend of mine would know?

>>4484969
>>4484971
>>4485266
"Tell me something only a friend of mine would know." You yell out to the armor clad being. There's is a very long pause, during which the armored head tilts further and further, until reaching an absurd looking 45 degrees.
"...Are you retarded? Even if I told you something, you've lost your memory to the depths. Also, we weren't friends, I just use that as a turn of phrase." It shakes it's head and puts out a hand signaling you to wait.
"Give me second... Alright, I got it! Something nobody else would know! You-" It points an accusing finger "-are an immortal shapeshifter, hundreds of years old. The Curse of Slumber forces you to enter extended periods of hibernation, but in that time you revert back to the prime of your life!"

Your companions alternate staring at the metal figure and you, eyes wide. The priest is the first to speak, turning slowly to glare at you, extending its grasshopper legs to full length.
"Is this true? Are you an immortal, and a cursed one at that? And you refused to tell us?" The warriors take both sides of the priest.
"I bet that's why he was knocked out by the communing." The bored warriors says.
"I thought that the other species just couldn't handle it." Responds the curious warrior. The Shapely is swiveling her head between each talker, releasing a echo signaling confusion.
"Don't bother denying it. You wanted proof that I know you. And there you have it" There's a mischievous glint in it's eye, clearly enjoying the situation.

Well shit, that did not go well.How do you respond to this?
>Later. Go talk with the being, and try to fix this later, or hope it blows over.
>It's true. It's true, and your sorry you didn't tell them.
>Ehh. You just figured it wasn't that important. And it's not like you were shapeshifting into other people.
>Totally false. This guy has the wrong idea.
>Write in. There is a very good explanation here.

>>4485335
Damn I know we should've voted for it to take it's armor but i figured this would be easier to deal with, baka
>It's true. It's true, and your sorry you didn't tell them.

>>4485335
>It's true. It's true, and your sorry you didn't tell them.

>>4485352
>>4485408
You start explaining yourself. The only memories you have are a year old now, you haven't even lived one life, let alone several. You didn't know how to explain yourself. You can only hope they accept you, if not forgive you.
DC 50, 1d100, best 1 of 3.

Rolled 10 (1d100)

>>4485428

Rolled 36 (1d100)

>>4485428
Let’s to this, for the power of friendship. Is it being a immoral that taboo ?

Rolled 61 (1d100)

>>4485428

>>4485434
thanks anon

>>4485430
>>4485432
>>4485434
61 success :)
"Yeah, it's right. I've been around a long time, at least, my physical body has. You know how I turn to a statue to sleep?"
"Yeah, I tried cracking it once. Really tough stuff." The curious warriors interjects. You shoot a look of annoyance before carrying on.
"While doing that my body regenerates all damage, even aging. But... I'm barely a year old!" Your normally calm exterior begins cracking, if only by a hair. "Everyone knows I lost my memories to the depths right? Well, I umm, I lost a lot more than that. Only Bzarzara was told, but I lost all my memories. All but the most basic information."
"But you hid that from us." The priest still stands his ground.
"...I was worried, and a little selfish. I thought people wouldn't trust me, or that I could benefit from planning long term."
"It also said you were a shapeshifter!" The curious warriors interjects, yet again.
"We already knew that." The bored warrior ejects in a dismissive tone.
"Yeah, but what if he can do other stuff, like turn into us? Or one of the doll guys?"

The priest stares you down for a minute, before letting out a hissing sigh from his spiracles and returning to a normal height.
"In truth, we already suspected that. If you were capable of changing your skin and creating armor, we guessed you could change other aspects too. When you grew a second pair of hands, like us, during the communing ritual, we assumed you could mimic us."
"So you w-" He interrupts you quickly lowering his head while speaking.
"We weren't worried. We had our own people keeping an eye on you and your clones. This was one motivation for moving Kin to your island." His head raises "I cannot forgive you, but I understand. Bzarzara never informed us of your... mental age. The elder priests will discuss amongst ourselves upon this mission's safe return."
Trust with the Kin will be hindered if this information returns home. But at least this priest is willing to return honesty with honesty.

When it seems everyone has finished, the metal humanoid speaks again.
"Well that was just touching. So! Are you ready to talk? Because if you're not I'm either leaving or stalking you. And I won't say which."
Will you humor this asshole?
>Yes. Fine, but if you try to kill us I will be mad.
>Wait. Keep talking at a distance. Your honestly curious what it will do
>No. Just leave, before it causes more problems.
>Write in. You need to ask or do something.


"Wait, what? I don't understand at all, is he still my officer? Rael Cun told me to do whatever he says." The Shapely is a little slow. Or maybe just stupid?

>>4485605
>Yes. Fine, but if you try to kill us I will be mad.
this fucker had his laugh now time to talk

>>4485605>Yes. Fine, but if you try to kill us I will be mad.

>>4485605
>Yes. Fine, but if you try to kill us I will be mad.

>>4485605
could we get an updated map?

>>4485918
Sure thing. It'll take a bit though.

File: First-Of-Steel.png (1.82 MB, 1088x1456)

1.82 MB PNG

>>4485635
>>4485677
>>4485860
"Fine." You spit out. "But if you try to kill us I will be mad."
"The same goes for you." The both of you approach, looking the other up and down for weapons. After neither goes for the kill, your team joins up with you. Within a minute everyone's sat down on tree roots. The armor clad being explains itself as a First-of-Steel, a race of metallic loners. Apparently that's not armor it wears, but its own aluminum skin. You guess that means it's technically a nudist? While a genderless species, it prefers to be referred to as male.
"Males are the naturally stronger gender, of course." It stares at the Shapely while stating this, earning a vicious glare.
He too is an immortal, and you two have met several times before, often on less than friendly terms. It's very excited to learn of your old self's identity death, openly stating that the new you couldn't possibly be worse.

"So you just wanted to laugh at an old foe brought low. " The priest speaks bitterly.
"Yes, but also I had questions. And answers. I'm guessing that everyone here is very interested in information. So I'll make a deal. I'll tell you about the local area, if you tell me about your own home. Just recent events, current climates, disasters, that sort of thing."
You guess that's not too bad.
"Not only that, but I'll give even more. For a price. Say... give me one of your group members." Ahh, that's more expected. But you're already in hot water, it would be foolhardy to throw away what little goodwill is left with your team.
"And what would you do with them?" Dear lord. You forgot how willing the Kin are to self sacrifice.
"Who knows? Well, I do. But that's for you to find out, if you stay with me."

Everyone looks around, gauging and scanning the others' feelings. The Shapely is clearly scared, but the Kin have lowered there antennae in a serious look. Will you support this deal?
>Info. Tell him about the archipelago in return for local knowledge.
>Give up. Surrender a party member. In return, you can ask for knowledge on any topic.
>Both. Give up a party member and information on the archipelago.
>Neither. Nope. You're willing to stay with this... man, but you're not giving anything away.
>Write in. Maybe you can give something different? Or you have something else to ask?

>>4485918
Making maps is still hard. or I'm just bad at making them. probably both

>>4486342
>Info. Tell him about the archipelago in return for local knowledge

>>4486342
>Info. Tell him about the archipelago in return for local knowledge.
I'll let the last decision for the kin

>>4486342
>Info. Tell him about the archipelago in return for local knowledge

>>4486345
>>4486371
>>4487130
Hate to say it, but I’m gonna be slow on updates for a day or two.

>>4486345
>>4486371
>>4487130
"Are you really okay with this? He is clearly evil. Not in a subjective way, but a literal hurt people for fun type of evil." You stare at the Kin while gesturing at the metal man. The curious warrior shuffles its feet awkwardly.
"Then let us discuss it. I believe that we have more to gain than lose in this arrangement. Even the wicked can do good." You recognize one of Anaphora's quotes from the priest.
After a short discussion you both agree to trade information, but save the sacrificial deal for later negotiation.

He starts with your current range of hills. They keep going until you reach the continental slope, and none of them are large enough for long term habitation. West of your current position is a single large island, and further northwest of that is a whole mountain range rising from the depths. That area is inhabited by his own race and a species known as Wanderer's. His own species, the First-of-Steel, are anarchists, with every one pursuing a "Great Achievement," a single defining task, such as being the strongest warrior, forging a perfect sword, etc. They can transfer power between Mutation and Magic Circuitry, and all have the Strength Mutation. The Wanderers are a subterranean species, traveling in nomadic tribes. They can form primitive tools from nothing, and all posses the Super Senses Mutation.

To your south and slightly east lies a gash in reality. That place has disturbing properties, such as causing material within it to disappear, and erasing memories of what it looks like. The edges can be traced out by the stone is has devoured. Finally, your current position is a dead greywood tree. These things could grow tall enough to touch clouds, and lived so long that there bark petrified while standing upright. The structure built within it he keeps secret.

In return you give a quick rundown of the Archipelago, the short war, Kin expansion, and current conflict between between Shapely kingdoms. He quietly listens, occasionally asking for details, but is otherwise silent.
"Interesting. I'm glad you trust me so blindly. Of course, you still haven't given me an answer about our other trade. If you need time to think you can stay at my place. I've gotten bored with no one around. Oh, and don't worry, this place has special magic that retards sunset. It's fairly safe." He motion to the top of the tree trunk.
Do you follow him along?
>Yes. Climb up to the top. Your flyer scouts ahead, and says it's just a one man camp hidden behind metal walls.
>Now. You'd like to make the deal now.
>No. You won't follow him anywhere. This does mean you won't be able to make a deal.
>Write in. You have a good idea.

>>4489507
>Yes. Climb up to the top. Your flyer scouts ahead, and says it's just a one man camp hidden behind metal walls.

>>4489507
>Yes. Climb up to the top. Your flyer scouts ahead, and says it's just a one man camp hidden behind metal walls.

>>4489507
>Yes. Climb up to the top. Your flyer scouts ahead, and says it's just a one man camp hidden behind metal walls.

>>4484949
>Curse of Sight
What is this?

>>4490815
now that's new

>>4490837
Not really. Been there since last thread.

>>4489514
>>4489518
>>4489654
He leads your group to a section of tree that's been worn down by time, creating many handholds. Just like the flyer said, the metal walls hide an inner structure. It's shaped like an arena without stands, though the floor is some smooth grey stone, dissimilar to any rock you've seen before. Everyone briefly checks there surroundings, but there are no traps, and none of the doors up here will open. The metal man starts a fire a bit before sunset, and everyone gathers around to cook food and warm themselves as the temperature drops. Curiously, your host doesn't eat regular food, but instead consumes leftover charcoal. As the sun lowers your party gets nervous, pulling out weapons and muttering prayers. Even the Red Rat has abandoned it's spite and gathers by the fire with you. But the metal man just sits there, grinning at your fear.

A few seconds before the light fades a whining sound comes from beneath your feet, growing louder with each moment. Then, right when everything goes dark, a series of glass orbs emerge from the steel walls, releasing beams of light. You'd compare it to the Kins holy light, but this gives of no warmth, and is blinding white rather than comforting yellow. These orbs illuminate the top of the stumps, making it appear as if floating in a sea of darkness. Long seconds pass, but nothing happens, other than the quiet creaking of the massive structure.

"Fascinating isn't it?" The metal man walks to the edge of the walls and climbs to the top. He stares into the darkness below, taking in the utter blackness of the abyss.
"That seems dangerous, looking into black after sunset." The priest is the first to follow him. He fails to heed his own advice, taking a spot on the wall.
"Undoubtable, but a few minutes couldn't hurt. I find that it helps to forget unpleasant memories." Everyone but the Red Rat and you takes a look. The rat seems horrified, and you can't see into the black. Instead, you see a dark static filled with swirling shapes and crackling sounds. Its not long before your retching dinner into the depths below.

Once everyone has had there fill staring into that hellish place, and laughing at your weak stomach, they return to the fire. The metal man doesn't stay long, retiring to sleep early in the night. Unlike previous nights, the whole group is well rested, and you have time before you leave tomorrow. Is there anything you want to do?
The night is long, choose up to 3 options.
>Talk. Bond with everyone. Share life stories, and learn the differences between your cultures.
>Discuss. Cut to the point. What topics could you learn, and who can be given up to get that info?
>Inform. Use your clone to talk with the people back home. Do they think information is worth a life?
>Look. Take some time to stare into that static once more. There's something in the static.
>Write in. Your in the depths at sunset, yet somehow safe. Opportunities abound!

>>4490815
Someone got a crit while you explored the silt flats, but I don't remember exactly. Since then you can sometimes see an otherworld within the depths. On the downside, some things are painful, or even fatal, when looked at.

>>4491841
Fun
>>4491835
>Let’s actually have our clone get a Shapely colony on our island.
>Talk. Bond with everyone. Share life stories, and learn the differences between your cultures.
>Discuss. Cut to the point. What topics could you learn, and who can be given up to get that info?
May I also say I’m a little disappointed that we aren’t in the forest, sand, or tectonics since those were way cooler.

>>4491870
+1 on this.

>>4491870
Just to clarify, you mean the island you own right?

>>4491870
+1

>>4491910
Yes. If the Kin are going to distrust us we’ll need to get the Shapely to support us.

>>4491870
+1

Now I think of it why is everyone supporting me?

>>4491870
>>4491892
>>4491912
>>4491935
Now that you've had time to think, you are reconsidering the relationship with the Kin. Your not sure why they care so much about your withholding of information, but it's likely to hurt future diplomacy. Thankfully the Shapely care less, since your ties are already fairly weak. Perhaps now's the time to strengthen those ties? You send a message to your clone, informing it to set aside a section of land for the Shapely kingdom of Telly.

As you hash out the details with your clone, the others start talking. It seems the curious warrior is interested in the lives of your average Shapely.
"Well, my life is fairly average for a soldier type." She responds to an unheard question. "My mother was a flyer like me, and a successful soldier. She captured two fathers who raised me and my sisters while she was working."
"Captured? As in she kidnapped them?" Your suddenly gaining interest in these strange creatures.
"Yeah, she was really strong! Us soldier types don't need to trick or trap males, we can just take them." She doesn't seem to recognize disgust from the Kin.
"What about the other types? What are they good at?" You try to steer the topic away from the horrors of slavery.
"Hmm, well I guess there's the nobles. They're really smart and pleasant to listen to. Or the workers. The workers are really strong like us soldiers, but not nearly as fast. And there's a lot of sub-types for the workers. It would take all night to go over them."

"What about you guy's, you have a, what's it called, caste system, right?" She turns to the priest, buzzing happily.
"That is true, though it is quite different from yours. We aren't born to any one caste, instead we are directed to the ideal work by the Hives will. Once there our minds will change to fit into the needed role."
"Wooah. I always wished I could change my type. But I wouldn't want my mind messed with."
"Really. I figured Shapely would enjoy the certainty of having a form perfect for there lives." This time it's the bored warrior who speaks.
"I guess, but it also means I can never change, even if I want to. I don't get how you guys can love doing one thing so much."
"We just do. Serving our role and sustaining the Hive is what makes us happy. Trust me, we all find it weird that you guy's don't enjoy serving a Hive." The curious warrior responds.
"Which is why we allow your kind within our tunnels. So that you may find the peace of mind all Kin posses." The priest finishes that train of thought.

part 1/2

>>4492065
"What about you, Hermann? What is your kind like?" The whole group turns to look at you.
"Well, I don't remember much..."
"Cmon, I really wanna know!" The Shapely is insistent.
"You must remember something." One of the warriors says.
"Not really, just that we were very... hedonistic."
"Hedonistic? That is worrisome." The priest is scanning you now.
"You don't know the worst of it. I sometimes have dreams of massive parties in the jungle, with fighting and killing. And everyone was eating tons of meat of buffet tables. I swear I once saw the loser of a fight get thrown into the buffet, screaming." Your eyes glass over slightly as you speak.
"What's a jungle? Also, may Anaphora have mercy on the souls of your people." The Curious warrior responds after a few seconds of silence.

You spend another hour discussing the daily lives of each peoples, and analyzing your dreams. After the chatter dies down the silence becomes deafening, even above the static past the steel walls. You look between each member, the Red Rat, and the metal mans tent.
"So, I guess we should make a decision?" You decide to break the ice quickly. "What does everyone think?"
"I believe this creature has no evil plans with anyone given to it, beyond murder. Most likely he desires us to make a painful decision for his own amusement. It is terrible, but I believe it is worth the price." The priest says his part.
"I am willing to die for the Hive. If a priest give me guidance, all the better." The bored warrior quickly adds
"Death is something I can accept. But I don't trust that monster. Sorry, priest." The curious warrior takes his time before speaking, and avoid making eye contact with any other.
"It is fine my child." The priest responds, before turning his gaze to the Shapely. "Our expedition leader chose a Shapely to come with us. We would hear your judgment as well."
"Umm, I don't know. I really don't want to die, or let anyone else die. But you guys know what's best."

"What about topics? What could we learn?" You bring up the second part of the deal.
"History. If we can learn about the Shadneel and our own ancestors, we could rebuild there old miracles and avoid past mistakes." The priest speaks quickly.
"I'd like to know about this place. It's got these things with there special armor" The curios warrior points to the Red Rat, "and has magic way different than anything I've seen."
"I don't particularly care." The bored warrior adds as eyes turn to him.
"I'd like to learn magic. If he knows any. Then we could teach others how to use magic." After the Shapely says her piece, it's quiet as everyone ponders.
"What do you want to learn? Your in charge after all." The curious warrior catches you off guard.
"well, I would ask about my past, but I doubt he'd accept that trade. I guess the most important would be learning about the depths. You guys grew up in them, but it's all new to me. Also, it might help with a project I have back home."

>>4492121
Everyone's shown there pieces. Will you deal with the devil?
>Priest
>Curious warrior
>Bored warrior
>Shapely flyer
>Write in.

What will you ask for?
>History
>This place
>Magic
>The depths
>Write in.

>>4491870
I figure when(if) this quest ends I'd start again with the depths option removed.

>>4492122
>Bored warrior
he's the only who accepted dying for it so let's send him
>The depths
>>4492135
ht ething is your told at the start that it was the most difficult scenario so people went with it

What were we going to do with the rat again?

>>4492122
>Bored warrior
>Ask the priest to do whatever his religion wants for his death before he sets off
>Magic

>>4492122
>How about none of the above.

>>4492148
That's entirely up to you. So far you have no plans with it.
>>4492158
Sorry, forgot to include that option.

>>4492147
Yeah, I honestly thought that would be a discouragement.

>>4492122
>Bored warrior


>Magic
or
>The depths

>>4492166
>That's entirely up to you. So far you have no plans with it.
What stops us from sacrificing it to the metal man?

>>4492250
You haven't asked. There's nothing stopping you so far.

>>4492202
>>4492155
>>4492147
Guess I’ll say it. You guy really want to sacrifice the warrior over the rat?

>>4492202
>>4492307

>Changing vote to trying to sacrifice rat and if that's possible sacrificing no one

>>4492307
>>4492317
Same here, sounds good to me if the metal man accepts it.

I guess I’ll throw out a vote toward magic and history if we’re picking something.

>>4492307
>>4492317
>>4493065
I'll rewrite some stuff. My internets going in and out, so I keep losing stuff.
Also, to whoever wanted the map. It looks like shit right now, even compared to my regular image editing skills. So I'm going to clean it before sharing it.

>>4493229
write stuff in a seperate editor, thats what i do when i run quests.


Man, do i want to start one, but it will have to be after my exams.

>>4492307
>>4492317
>>4493065
The priest is right, that information is well worth the price. Even if you hate satisfying the metal man's sadism for your past self. But you're honestly bonding with your trail mates, and it hurts to let one go so easily. You happen to lock eyes with the Red Rat, and start grinning. But maybe you won't have to. The rest of the night is spent formulating a plan, setting up watch, and considering how lucky capturing this guy alive is turning out.

The massive beams of light dim around midnight, revealing the darkened landscape of the canyon. You still find it strange that dusk in the depths is darker than midnight. The lights continue to deactivate throughout the night, until dawn causes them to retreat back into their metal sanctuary. Despite everyone else waking at dawn, your host sleeps an hour past it.
"Good to know you didn't die in your sleep." You graciously greet him.
"You wish, I won't go down that easily. I guess It's my own fault though, totally forget to mention my kind sleep half the day." He walks to the burnt out fire and begins eating last night's coals.
"Whenever you are ready, we have reached a decision." The priest is polite, but you can hear the distaste in his voice.
"Aww, I thought you'd draw it out more." He turns to you. "Next time bring more Shapely, their sense of dramatic timer is much better." He chews some uncooked wood before continuing. "But now I'm curious, which of your, friends, will you betray?" He says that word sarcastically, as if your caring was an impossibility.
"None actually. Not a friend at least." You try not to smile as you push forward the rat, which has just now realized the situation. Both warriors restrain it as it begins fighting like a cornered, well, a cornered rat.
"It's traveling with us, willingly or not. I'd count that as a member of our group." The bored warrior speaks while holding the captive's mouth shut.
"... Hahaha, Ha ha, he!" The First-of-Steel laughs with the sound of a violin holding note. "Wow, you really are cocky! I expected you to give up the Kin, and maybe even a clone of yourself. Not risk pissing me off with this shit." He keeps laughing, loud and boisterous.

File: Motes of magic.png (786 KB, 1345x1345)

786 KB PNG

>>4493710
>>4492147
Depths
>>4492155
Magic
>>4492202
Magic/Depths
>>4493095
Magic/History

His words bring a tension of fear and anxiety into the air, but your team holds firm, eyes switching between targets to scan the potential battle field.
"Ehh, I'll take it. I was more interested in getting a read on you guys than actually getting a fresh- well you'll find out."
"And our side of the deal?" You step in front of the rat.
"Of course, of course. Don't worry, I only lie when it benefits me. So let's psychoanalyze you a bit more" No one recognizes that word, and his metal head swivels between each of you, his grin slipping away. "...Just tell me what you want."
You motion to the Shapely, who nervously takes your side.
"Umm, I, we! would like to learn magic. Please" She tries to make a puppydog face, but her solid porcelain face and pitch black eyes impede somewhat.
"That's it? I can give you time to rethink if you want. No? Well sit down then, this won't take more than an hour." He starts a long spiel about the nature of magic.

"First, you can't "learn" magic, only become more experienced with it. This is because all magic comes from your own internal circuitry. Every person has at least one set of circuitry, each of which can perform a different spell, and each set comes in 3 levels. Each level has more functionality, in the form of auxiliary circuits, and more power. This power comes from motes of magic, which power every circuit in your body. Each mote can be in only one circuit at a time, and cannot cross over sets of circuitry. A mote in the core circuit increases power, while a mote in an auxiliary circuit alters the spells effects. The number of motes you have is determined by your level, and some people actually have no motes in a set of circuitry."
"So why don't we all have magic?" The Shapely asks. At this point the priest has begun writing notes on a piece of velum, including the Shapely's question. You're tempted to do the same.
"Excellent question! Magic has to be coagulated into motes within your circuits before it can be used. This rarely happens naturally, so most people need surgery to jumpstart there magic. And even then, the quality of the operation can affect how many circuits fully activate."
"Okay but circuitry can be built in non living things, and clearly has more than 3 motes." You're getting kind of skeptical.
"Ah, that might take a bit longer to explain. Give me a second." He returns to grab some tools and notes. The following hour is jam packed with explanations of surgery, the anatomy of living circuitry, and the differences it has to artificer crafted items.

>>4493721
+Magic Skill! You and your clones can now see through each other's senses and can share memories while focusing, allowing you to absorb the knowledge of a clone. Your negation circuit can now freeze at a 10 meter range without any auxiliary circuits, and all cooldowns are a tenth of the original time.
+Skill: Magical Circuitry Surgery! You now know how the Shadneel activated a person's inner magic. With the right tools, and a lot of expensive materials, you can activate a creature's dormant circuitry. This also allows you to see what circuits are dormant in a creature before activation. This process has variable success, but is better, and much cheaper, than the Shapley method.
Well, that was actually amazing. With this knowledge the Hives can begin producing powerful magic users, and the kingdom's can afford to produce even more. Everyone's eyes are wide, and the question still remains, Will you give up a real companion this time? Is knowledge worth it?
>Yes! Just one more, you need to know.
>No. The others are looking away. Afraid, or embarrassed by their own greed?
>Write in. Another clever idea comes forth.

>>4493723
>No. The others are looking away. Afraid, or embarrassed by their own greed?

>>4493723
>>No. The others are looking away. Afraid, or embarrassed by their own greed?

>>4493723
>No. The others are looking away. Afraid, or embarrassed by their own greed?

>>4493752
>>4493880
>>4493902
The relief in the air is palpable, the Kin warriors relaxing their antennae and the Shapely emitting an echoing sigh. You take off the Red Rats gear, leaving the heavy armor, and hand it over. You do feel a little bad about this, but the thing did try to kill you, and has questionable sentience. The metal man tears off the creature's claws in a bloody fashion before he binds it in thick rope. The creature hisses and screams the whole time, clawless hands futile in cutting the rope.

You say your goodbyes and leave. Or more appropriately, you silently pack your things while the metal man makes the occasional quip or insult. When you're walking away from the stump he yells down to you one more time.
"I hope we meet again Hermann! That count's as a threat by the way." His voice echoes along the canyons. The group refuses to respond, and no one speaks until your back at the hills, having avoided more parties of Red Rats.
"I find it discomforting that such a cruel being can act so genial." The priest is the first to break the silence.
"I knew a noble like that. She acted all nice, but was really mean deep down. Once she killed a friend who challenged her for a male." The Shapely's worrying comments about her own society unbreaks the silence.

As you wander the curious warrior and Shapely fiddle with the Red Rats backpack. It turns out to be an artifact, creating food and water from nothing. The water slowly drips into a pouch, and the food grows inside the packs attached tube. When twisted the top of the tube opens, revealing an edible green moss. You still have 2 weeks of food left. Where will you go next?
>Island & Mountains. Supposedly larger than anything in the archipelago. 1 week.
>Gouge. Mysterious gaps in reality; definitely something cool there. 1 day there and 1 day back..
>Go home. It hasn't been long, but you've gathered enough already. 1 week.
>Write in. You'd like to do something before setting off.

+Black&Blue Backpack! Produces enough water for 1 person each day, and produces half a ration each day. Produces less when the weather is dry for some reason.

>>4494997
>Island & Mountains. Supposedly larger than anything in the archipelago. 1 week.

>>4494997

>>Island & Mountains. Supposedly larger than anything in the archipelago. 1 week.

>>4494997
>Island & Mountains. Supposedly larger than anything in the archipelago. 1 week.

>>4495021
>>4495139
>>4495146
Another week of hard travel. More nights spent hiking under lamplight, and more days spent searching for shelter. You'd have trouble navigating were it not for the metal mans description of the area. The gentle downward slope lets you see for miles. Within a day you can see the island rising from the depths, it's behemoths mass growing with each step. The whole structure is over 3 miles tall, its upward slope increasing with height before flattening out, giving the look of a mesa. Behind it you can see a chain of mountains. Both structures have caves within them, both above and below the depths.

The island is covered in thick forest, with the exception of a large mountain in the center. You already know the island is populated, and that population is extremely anarchic. How will you approach?
>Open. Go in during the day. Easier to scout and spot far away, but easier to be seen in turn.
>Stealth. Sneak in at night. Exploring won't be as effective, but you can go unseen by locals.
>Camp. Construct a camp at the edge of the island. You won't be able to explore, but you'll be defended.
>Write in. There's another way to do this.

File: Mountain mesa(ocean type).jpg (41 KB, 540x401)

41 KB JPG

>>4496067
Forgot to upload a pic of what islands generally look like.

>>4496067
>Open. Go in during the day. Easier to scout and spot far away, but easier to be seen in turn.

>>4496075
>>4496067
Backing this guy

>>4496067
>Open. Go in during the day. Easier to scout and spot far away, but easier to be seen in turn.

>>4496075
>>4496078
>>4496079
The locals are dangerous, but rarely travel in groups. Your best option right now is to find the lay of the land; hopefully before drawing attention to yourselves. You spot a few locals, but the leave you alone unless approached, at which point they quickly become violent. Many of them are constructing seemingly random objects, everything from statues, to houses, to weapons. This litters the forest with junk, new and decayed alike.

Searching the island has proven to be...
DC 60, 1d100, best 1 of 3.

Rolled 67 (1d100)

>>4496247

Rolled 58 (1d100)

>>4496247

Rolled 69 (1d100)

>>4496247

>>4496256
Kinky

>>4496256
69 Success :)
The island truly is incredible. around 30 miles wide, capped with two mountains, and has it's own rain and river system. The tops of the mountains seem important, since all the First-of-Steel near it make threatening gestures as you close in, and they regularly fight each other on these mountains. In between the two mountains is a settlement of sorts. It doesn't seem permanent, but instead functions as a meeting ground for the natives. No one seems to challenge your presence here, but you hold off approaching for now.

Otherwise, the island seems tropical, though it lacks the water necessary to sustain a rainforest, instead consisting of thick forests and large beaches. Looking out you can the mountain range extending from this island. The only thing your not sure about are the islands caves, which you avoided due to past experience. These ones should be above the depths though, so hopefully it's safe. You camp at day's end, and discuss opportunities for tomorrow. What should you investigate?
>Mountains. The people here are ready to fight, and clearly challenging all takers. Go see what's so important.
>Meeting grounds. Strangely, none of the natives seem interested in your group so far. You'll have to be proactive with contacting them
>Caves. You know the Wanderer's live within the caves, perhaps they are more interested in your group?
>Shelter. Start constructing a shelter here. A good idea if you plan to stay for a while.

>>4496343
>Meeting grounds. Strangely, none of the natives seem interested in your group so far. You'll have to be proactive with contacting them

>>4496343
>Meeting grounds. Strangely, none of the natives seem interested in your group so far. You'll have to be proactive with contacting them

>>4496343
>>4496343
>Meeting grounds. Strangely, none of the natives seem interested in your group so far. You'll have to be proactive with contacting them

Are people still interested in this quest if it only updates like twice a day? I'm pretty busy now, and I'm struggling to keep up a good pace.
If not I'll scrap this and start a new flooded quest later, when I have more time.

>>4497175
2 updates a day are fine my dude

>>4497175
2 is fine

>>4497175
You do you man 2 is fine

>>4496357
>>4496365
>>4496454
Well, you haven't been attacked yet, despite the natives violence between each other. So it makes sense to try some diplomacy first, even if they don't care. The island has many paths acting as a no man's land, in the center of which is the meeting grounds. Entering earns you lots of sideways glances, but no one contests your presence.

All plant matter has been cleared out by fire, leaving a layer of packed dirt. In random spots sit buildings of incredible variety, mud huts, wooden bungalows, brick forges, the list goes on. Dozens of First-of-Steel wander around these places, bartering for goods. At least half the buildings seem to be abandoned, people only using them to trade or craft something, then moving on. It seems the buildings are communal, or perhaps paid for temporarily? You fail to find any semblance of a town hall or chiefs hut, let alone a leader.

There are a few buildings of interest however. One wooden shop has a map drawn over it's door. Seems like a popular location. Another spot is an open air bar with a single bartender, serving either alcohol or medicine, you can't tell which. Finally there is a forge. No one is set up there, but people wait in line and fist fight to use it. What's the best option?
>Map shop. Maybe you can learn a bit more of the local area?
>Bar. "Everyone gathers at the tavern!" The Shapely announces.
>Forge. There's a lot of people there, hopefully they're up for talking.
>Write in. Something else catches your eye. (Something else, like an open air market, or butchers station)

>>4497605
>Map shop. Maybe you can learn a bit more of the local area?

>>4497605
>Forge. There's a lot of people there, hopefully they're up for talking

>>4497605
>Forge. There's a lot of people there, hopefully they're up for talking.

>>4497605
Map shop, we dont want to pick a fight by accident

Rolled 2 (1d2)

>>4497621
>>4497922
Map shop

>>4497630
>>4497833
Forge

>>4497630
>>4497833
You station the group next to the forge. As the people in line steadily move forward you talk to each, one by one. Or try to talk. The most you receive is curious jaw clacks from a child, while the rest give you silent metallic stares paired with threatening poses. No matter the language used, there is no response. Now that you think about it, you haven't heard a single word from these people. Maybe there mute? Or just haven't developed language.

An hour into waiting you do see something interesting. One of the line waiters is approached by a larger First-of-Steel. what ensues looks like a macho man contest, both parties puffing up chests and subtly shifting poses. You've seen this many times of course, and it always ends with violence or one party leaving. But this time they both step aside, and the larger one hands off a cloth wrapped package. All without a single word.

Soon after this the smaller one approaches you, puffing up in the same way, and making threatening poses. You suppose it either wants to fight, or make you leave. How do you respond to this?
>Fight. This has been happening since you came to the island. Apparently the only thing these people understand is violence.
>Challenge. Puff up and mimic the threat. You're smaller, but it's likely never seen a being like you before.
>Challenge+. You can also shapeshift to be taller, and significantly spikier.
>Leave. Honestly this has been a waste of time. gather up the group and go do something more productive.
>Write in. This whole scenario is really strange. Are you missing something?

>>4498991
Challenge+

>>4498991
>Challenge+. You can also shapeshift to be taller, and significantly spikier.

>>4498991
>Challenge+. You can also shapeshift to be taller, and significantly spikier.

>>4498991
>Challenge. Puff up and mimic the threat. You're smaller, but it's likely never seen a being like you before.

>>4499001
>>4499010
>>4499086
Your body grows at an alarming rate, flesh visibly shifting to make you taller and more impressive. On the joints skin pinches and hardens into spines, while the rest calcifies like a shell. The challenger shrinks and backs away, waving its hands in what you assume is an appeasing motion, but refuses to leave. Your rapid change attracts a crowd. Everyone in line turns to watch this unfolding spectacle. You feel like you should do something, but you're not sure what.
DC 65, 1d100+10(Physical ability+5 and aglity+5), best 1 of 3.

Rolled 28 (1d100)

>>4499105

Rolled 79 + 10 (1d100 + 10)

>>4499105

Rolled 82 + 10 (1d100 + 10)

>>4499105

>>4499105
So qm if there arent enough of us can some of us reroll? Or do you not care on wanting for rolls?

>>4499109
>>4499110
>>4499384
Sorry, I fell asleep. I'll try to write something early in the morning.

>>4499385
Since this moves so slowly, I don't mind waiting. But if it's been more than an hour, feel free to reroll. Though if someone new rolls I suppose I'd use that instead.

>>4499401
Sweet and no worries man I feel asleep too lol, just keep plugging away

Rolled 4 + 10 (1d100 + 10)

>>4499105

>>4500025
Wait i'm late anyways, nvm

>>4499384
82+10=92 Success :)
As you watch the crowd around you, you realize each of them are making the same same threatening postures. However, they are directed at each other. Wait a second...
Well, nothing else worked, you start mimicking the puffing and posing motions you saw the larger First-of-Steel make. You feel stupid, and based on the expressions of your companions faces, look the way you feel. But your challenger rises back up, and begins repeating it's same challenge, this time slowly going through the motions. As you mimic each other, you realize two important facts.

The First-of-Steel communicate entirely through body language. What looks like macho man contests are actually entire conversations. You never noticed since so many of these conversations end in violence. More importantly, that metal man asshole lied to you! He talked verbally, and implied that the rest of his species talked the same way. Okay, so he didn't LIE per se, but he still purposely misled you.

You keep up this game of charades for over an hour. Your natural agility makes the subtle motions easy; your a natural. Apparently this man wants to trade the package he received, a set of clay tablets with pictures of First-of-Steel poses. In return he wants, this part you're still confused about, the Shapely's armor and/or clothes. It doesn't seem to understand that they have an exoskeleton. You tried to point to your own dermal armor, but the gap in language is too large. What do you do?
>Accept. Honestly, let's see what happens. The Shapely is equally curious at this point.
>Offer something else. Maybe it wants a lamp, or some alternative material in place of the Shapely's porcelain?(Say what)
>Refuse. Try to politely turn it down.
>Write in. This is an odd situation. But you have a good way to resolve it.

>>4500365
Offer something else maybe it wants a lamp or some alternative, make a show of the shapely having an exoskeleton too like tug on her bits and communicate that it doesn't work like clothes

>>4500405
+1

It would be very interesting to get our hands on the tablets, more things to learn!

>>4500423
And have a very rude non verbal greeting for that metal asshole hopefully

>>4500365
>Offer something else. Maybe it wants a lamp, or some alternative material in place of the Shapely's porcelain?(Say what)
>>4500405
say this

>>4500405
>>4500423
>>4500433
>>4500502
sorry again for not posting. Had to attend a political information session. It was as painful as you'd think.
As apology I'll finish up the local map by tomorrow.

>>4500660
No worries man! And sweet love me some maps

>>4500660
was it to biden rally ?

>>4500405
+1

File: First-Of-Steel island.png (202 KB, 1575x1268)

202 KB PNG

>>4500405
>>4500423
>>4500502
>>4500696
You gently pull the Shapely back, deciding that she lacks the critical thinking for this transaction. In her place you present a variety of martials, without your magical items, of course. The First-of-Steel picks through them, briefly taking interest in the lamps, but refuses all. At this point you realize it's looking for exotic materials for crafting... something? Your still in the dark on that. Negotiations sour, and soon the First-of-Steel is tugging at the Shapely's "mask" who begins squeaking like a mouse. Shapely only open there masks when they feel safe, making it impossible to show how it's attached. You eventually manage to separate the two, with no help from the Kin who are struggling not to laugh at these antics.

After everyone is calmed down you're forced to admit you have nothing it wants. The Shapely suggests that it will shed it's current shell, but that it would take a year, and only a thin layer breaks off. Is there anything else you'd suggest?
>No. You have nothing to offer. Sorry.
>Wait. Fuck it, you'll spend a year waiting.
>Suggest a different material. (Write in what you'd suggest)
>Write in. Is there another option?

>>4500664
Friend of a friend type deal, went to a small gathering to discuss what we know. I thought I would learn about local politicians. Instead I got lectured on how third parties are worthless and I should vote democrat.

>>4501542
Third parties in America are super cucked but still bait and switch are always annoying
>Suggest a different material. (Write in what you'd suggest)
Hmmm can we form something like what the shapely has and then just cut it off? I assume itd hurt like a bitch but if we cut of a portion of us that's shapeshifted will it stay shifted or revert back to biomass/something not useful

>>4501538
>>4501555
Or failing that idea
>No. You have nothing to offer. Sorry.

>>4501538
>No. You have nothing to offer. Sorry.

>>4501555
You've never examined Shapely anatomy, but you could attempt to mimic it. Or at least make something interesting.

>>4501538
>No. You have nothing to offer. Sorry.
>>4501542
that's the sad reality of a two big parties. here is almost the same for the presidential election but the other seats have more options

>>4501555
>>4501556
>>4501573
>>4501583
You know what? You posses the most potent Shapeshifting mutation of anyone you know. Not that there's much competition. But that's irrelevant. You should be able to mimic the outer shell of the Shapely. You can't recreate the porcelain she's made of, but maybe you could make polished bone? Or at least a calcified shell.

It will be hard with no prior experience or anatomy to draw on, but worse comes to worse you can just refuse the trade.
DC 75, d100+5(Physical ability+5)

Rolled 60 + 5 (1d100 + 5)

>>4501641

Rolled 35 + 5 (1d100 + 5)

>>4501641
Fuck it I wasn't going to pester you(more like ask poorly worded questions) about it but I wont say no to this, doesn't hurt to try!

Rolled 23 + 5 (1d100 + 5)

>>4501641
pls let's do it

>>4501646
Don't worry about it. I love answering questions; the worse the grammar the better.

File: Ivory Bead.jpg (22 KB, 422x448)

22 KB JPG

>>4501645
60+5=65 Fail :(

You sit down, legs crossed, close your eyes, and breathe deeply. The crowd watching see's nothing, save perhaps a slight shifting of skin. But within your body bones shift, teeth melt, and keratin forms. Just under the skin, at the back of your jaw a tooth grows. You grow paper thin layers of tooth over an inner bone, shifting and moving it like an oyster moves a pearl. After a few minutes you bite down hard, cracking the skin and pushing out a newly formed bead of ivory.

The First-of-Steel looks over it, considers the organic gemstone, and shakes its head. The material is beautiful, but not what's wanted. You leave the ivory with them, you certainly don't need it. At least now you know how to make ivory the future.

Your thoughts turn to your next goal. You could try and study the First-of-Steel body language. You also know they admire those "Great Achievements." You don't have any yourself, but you could prove your worth with some smaller achievement. Or you could just abandon diplomacy with these antisocial beings.
>Language. You're a natural at this posturing type of communication. It shouldn't take more than a month or two.
>Achievement. They'll listen if you prove yourself to them.
>Done. Go do something else. You can always come back later.
>Write in. Maybe visit one of the other buildings?

>>4501704
>Done. Go do something else. You can always come back later.

>>4501704
>>Done. Go do something else. You can always come back later.

>>4501704
>Write in
>Visit the bar

>>4501708
>>4501711
Honestly this whole experience has been tiring. No one here even cares about the alien beings among them. You know, most people would be excited to learn of a whole world beyond their isolated lifestyle. What ungrateful bastards. You discuss with the team on the next move.
"Shelter should be our first priority. We're undefended and surrounded by aggressive natives." The bored warrior speaks his part quickly.
"There's plenty of caves and abandoned houses here. If we're done with these guys let's check out the mountain range. Maybe find the Wanderer guy's." The Curious warrior argues.
"Let's not be hasty. I think we can still connect with the First-of-Steel. We just need to understand them. Why not visit those mountains they revere?" The priest responds.
"I want to explore more. I mean, this place is huge, there has to be lots of cool stuff in these forests." As usual the Shapely is the last to speak.

They all have decent options. If you're not working on diplomacy you're directionless. How should you be moving forward?
>Shelter. If you plan to be here a while you'll need a place to rest.
>Mountain range. The reasonable next choice. Though meeting new species has historically ended badly for you.
>Mountains. Fight your way up one of the mountains. Something important has to be up there.
>Explore. Just look around the dense forest until you find something. Could be useless, or amazing.
>Write in. It's a big world, full of big choices.

>>4502671
>Shelter. If you plan to be here a while you'll need a place to rest.

>>4502697
>>4502671
Backing

>>4502697
>>4502714
Shelter here is plentiful. Past inhabitants have built houses for the sake of achievement alone, yet the majority prefer minimalistic lifestyles. Still, you need to find a place in good condition, uninhabited, and of course, unprotected. Many of the natives will work to protect "Great Achievements," so the only buildings available are those constructed for practice or deemed subpar. And of course it will take some time to set up, dependent on how lucky you are and how quickly you can work.
DC 55, d100+10(Physical ability+5 and aglity+5)

There's also the question of location. Where do you want to build?
>Trade Zone. You'll have to compete to keep a place here, but it will make "Community" interaction easier.
>Forest. It's easy to find abandoned homes here, and few people will bother you.
>The shore. Even the First-of-Steel avoid the depths. You'll have a large area to yourself, allowing for future expansion.

>>4502802
>>Forest. It's easy to find abandoned homes here, and few people will bother you.
Were just out here to poke around no need to get to settled in

Rolled 4 + 10 (1d100 + 10)

>>4502802
>Forest. It's easy to find abandoned homes here, and few people will bother you.
It's not supposed to be permanent, althought we'll be staying a good time here

>>4502811
roll anon

Rolled 53 + 10 (1d100 + 10)

>>4502802

Rolled 34 + 10 (1d100 + 10)

>>4502802

>>4502811
>>4502828
You march into the dense forest, searching for a base of operations. You don't need anything fancy, just four wall and a roof, and maybe a floor. You are getting tired of sleeping outside.

>>4502838
53+10=63
Most of the homes you find are unsuitable, either falling apart or protected by locals. And the rest are ill placed. Eventually your forced to settle for a crumbling stone brick house by the mountains edge. The place is miles from any paths, but nobody has claimed it and the inside is dry. You and your team take two days to fix up the place. The Kin pack in cracks and sure up the foundation, while you and the Shapely fix up a crude wooden door. The priest puts something foul smelling into his censer, the smoke of which drives out hidden vermin. The Shapely shoves a few into her pack as a "snack for later."

Now then, what next? You ponder the options. Your clone can be used to contact everyone back home. That would let you bring reinforcements, though you have no idea how many would survive the journey. Or you could keep moving west, checking out the mountain range. You could even head into the caves below, where the depths have flooded in. That's sure to be dangerous, but your guaranteed to find something worthwhile. Choices, choices, choices...
>Contact. It's a new land, ripe for conquest. Watch out for natives.
>Mountain range. Check out the smaller islands, and the Wanderers that inhabit their caves.
>Deeper down. Mystery is assured in the depths.
>Write in. You have a goal in mind.

>>4503895
>Mountain range. Check out the smaller islands, and the Wanderers that inhabit their caves.

>>4503895
>Mountain range. Check out the smaller islands, and the Wanderers that inhabit their caves.

File: Caves have eyes.jpg (105 KB, 1264x632)

105 KB JPG

>>4503919
>>4503921
The Kin scavenge some local plants while you hunt for tender meat. The Kin dig a hole under your base to store unneeded items, freeing up weight. Once everyone is packed and restocked on rations you head out. The mountain range is a little over 150 miles long, though the closest peak is only 25 miles off the coast. Remembering the metal man's description of the area, you know there are 7 islands reaching out of the depths, though many more are submerged.

The whole trip feels eerie, like your being watched. Every mountain in this range is covered in caves, looking like a god poked at them with a needle. You have a sneaking suspicion that the Wanderers already know of your presence. They seem unwilling to enter direct sunlight. At one point you see a shadowy figure in a tunnel wielding a pitch black spear.
"There are stories of smoke people in the caves. I always assumed it was a metaphor." The priest speaks up looking at you.
"Don't suppose those stories had any info?" You ask, staring into a caves black interior. Is that a stalactite, or a person?
"Hmm, when the world was young our races traded. They had the stone, and we the earth, meeting at the intersection. But when the flood came and the waters dried they would invade our warrens, forgetting the old pact. They are warriors, tribal and violent."
"Great, that explains everything." You side eye the priest as he begins quoting scripture to no one in particular.

Well then, how will you approach them?
>Straight in. Walk into the caves with lanterns held high. What's the worst that could happen? besides a spear through the liver.
>Wait. Sit outside one of the caves until someone approaches.
>Don't. Keep following the mountain range. It will take a few days to reach the end, but mapping it all out will be worth it.
>Write in. There's probably a smarter way to approach xenophobic shadow people.

>>4504140
>>Don't. Keep following the mountain range. It will take a few days to reach the end, but mapping it all out will be worth it.
We can try to make contact alon the way back to the new homestead

>>4504140
>Don't. Keep following the mountain range. It will take a few days to reach the end, but mapping it all out will be worth it.

>>4504140
>Don't. Keep following the mountain range. It will take a few days to reach the end, but mapping it all out will be worth it.

>>4504168
>>4504176
>>4504229
You travel another 20 miles, reaching the shore of this mountain. Looking out at the barren rock walls, you estimate it will take about 6 and something days to reach the end, assuming you keep pace. But night is quickly approaching, so for now you set up camp.

Unfortunately violent shrieking pierces from the caves below. In different directions you hear these sounds, echoing though the stone tunnels. You all sleep uneasily, even after the sounds disappear, as quickly as they came. Throughout the night you keep an eye out, but only see dark shapes. Your Shadneel enhanced sight helps in low light, but it cannot penetrate very far. Every wisp of air, rustling plant, or errant mouse could be a threat approaching. Hopefully it's just nerves, and not the natives. Or worse, something from the depths. You leave out some lanterns, just in case.

DC 75, d100+15(Physical ability+5, nightvision+5, and improved hearing+5)

Rolled 44 + 15 (1d100 + 15)

>>4505310

Rolled 81 + 15 (1d100 + 15)

>>4505310

Rolled 15 + 15 (1d100 + 15)

>>4505310

>>4505315
81+15=96 Succes :)
On the third night all screams stop. The black sky is unnaturally quite, too still for such a wild place. You find yourself wishing for those white sky dots you saw in the depths hallucinations. A blade swings through the the dark, towards you.

It stops before reaching you, and is gone in a moment. You don't react. The light flickers, revealing shadows with white eyes and obsidian weapons. Nonchalantly, you check one of the iron lanterns. The the oil fires work fine, but the holy light lanterns are dimming. Magic? or or some counterforce? You stretch out and let out a yawn, followed by a chittering sound.
"Pretend to sleep. Enemy close." You whisper in Grasskrit. The surrounding shadows don't understand, but the Kin fake insectoid snores.
"Confirmed" Curious states
"Ready" Bored affirms
"Your word"
Next, you gently shake the Shapely awake.
"What? I don't have next watch, that's -" You cut her off
"Change of plans." You shift your eyes to the intruders while squeezing her wrist.
"Oh, of course officer." She's not confident, but she is selling it. As you lay down, on your head naturally turns, scanning the environment. There's at least 10, maybe more, and they slowly move outside the lights range. The others can't see, but your nigh vision can identify those closet. They'll surround the camp within minutes if you do nothing. The next move is...
>Counter ambush. Your outnumbered, but they aren't expecting a counter attack.
>Wait. See what they plan to do.
>I've been expecting you... (Write in something to say, or else roll 1d100)
>Write in. Stratagems win fights. You have a good one.

>>4505418
>Counter ambush. Your outnumbered, but they aren't expecting a counter attack.
They really really dont seem to want to talk soooo

>>4505418
>Counter ambush. Your outnumbered, but they aren't expecting a counter attack.

>>4505418
>>Counter ambush. Your outnumbered, but they aren't expecting a counter attack.

File: Wander species.png (1.26 MB, 1037x1458)

1.26 MB PNG

>>4505435
>>4505476
>>4505494
Your breathing slows, and your heart rate picks up, your auxiliary organs pumping extra oxygen as your brain enters fight or flight. On the outside, all is still.
[TIMETOFIGHT!]
The enemy us unaware, you can act freely, or attempt an action while maintaining cover. Enemies receive no DR from Physical Ability
Hermann the Prime-Biotic
HP 200 + Fleshshaping(200HP) + regen(33/turn)
DR 0
ACTIONS
>Attack: 1d00+10 BO3
>Flesh shape
>Magic
>Item
>Write in

??? the Shapely Flyer
HP 100
DR 15
ACTIONS
>Shortbow: 1d00 (ranged)
>Longbow: 1d00+10 (Long range, must land)
>Iron sword: 1d00+20
>Write in

???&??? the Kin warriors
HP 125, 125
DR 20
ACTIONS
>Spear: 1d00 (ranged)
>Spear: 1d00+20
>Write in

??? the Kin Priest
HP 75
DR 10
ACTIONS
>Heal(3/day): 1dX, X=lost HP
>Seeking Spark(2/day): 1d100, cannot roll less than 50
>Holy Flame(1/day): 1d100, repeats this damage every round.
>Write in

(OOC, since your companions only use the first attack, instead of BO3, I'd appreciate if each person only rolled for 1 or 2 companions at a time. Also, I have simplified character sheets of each companion. I didn't want to exceed the threads autism tolerance, so I'll only post them if someone wants me to.)

Rolled 6 + 20 (1d100 + 20)

>>4505525
>Magic
>>Freeze as many as we can

>Iron sword: 1d00+20

>Spear: 1d00+20

>Holy Flame(1/day): 1d100, repeats this damage every round.

I'll roll for first companion

Rolled 98 + 20 (1d100 + 20)

>>4505525
>Magic
>Freeze as many as we can
Kin warrior
>Spear: 1d100+20

Rolled 34 (1d100)

>>4505530
>>4505525
Backing

Rolled 75 + 25 (1d100 + 25)

>>4505530
>>4505545
>>4505592
I've got to go, but I'm rolling for the attackers against you freezing them, just so I don't forget.
Also, if anyone wants to do the final roll for the Kin priest.

Sleep well, and check your closet for shadows.

>>4505606
-20, again so I remember. Forgot dice don't do negatives and postives.

>>4505606
75-20=55
Your negation circuit flares to full power, creating a stasis field centered on the enemy. It manages to catch 6 of them, 2 of which are engaged. The 2 meter diameter sphere prevents anyone from taking there place. Your allies will have to handle the rest, as your ability keeps the area frozen for only a second, and takes a second to recharge. Only once the spell is cast do you rise up to fight.
>>4505530
6+20=26
The Shapely engages the nearest wander, but takes to much time drawing her sword. Those critical seconds allow her opponent to move out of range, sustaining minimal damage.
>>4505545
98+20=118 Crit!
The bored warrior sleeps with his spear, anticipating nights like this. Using the Kin's absurd speed he closes distance with the attackers, stabbing one through the chest before twisting sideways to deliver a devastating kick, breaking the throat of another. Within a minute of fighting two foes are dead on the ground.
>>4505592
34+20=54
The curious warrior runs to your side, protecting you as the spell is maintained. One unfortunate Wander gets to close, receiving a gash across it's sword arm in retaliation.
The priest briefly summons a light that blinds the cave dwellers delicate sight, but something snuffs it out almost instantly. In that moment you spot 12 Wanderer's, two of which are moving forward to replace the killed one. Hopefully they'll retreat without you killing them all.

Hermann the Prime-Biotic
HP 200 + Fleshshaping(200HP) + regen(33/turn)
DR 0
ACTIONS
>Attack: 1d00+10 BO3
>Flesh shape
>Magic
>>Freeze more enemies
>Item
>Write in

??? the Shapely Flyer
HP 100
DR 15
ACTIONS
>Shortbow: 1d00 (ranged)
>Longbow: 1d00+10 (Long range, must land)
>Iron sword: 1d00+20
>Write in

???&??? the Kin warriors
HP 125, 125
DR 20
ACTIONS
>Spear: 1d00 (ranged)
>Spear: 1d00+20
>Write in

??? the Kin Priest
HP 75
DR 10
ACTIONS
>Heal(3/day): 1dX, X=lost HP
>Seeking Spark(2/day): 1d100, cannot roll less than 50
>Holy Flame(1/day): 1d100, repeats this damage every round.
>Write in

Vs.

WanderersX5(5 not engaged)
HP 26,54,100,100(frozen),100(frozen),
DR 10
ACTIONS
>Solid Smoke Weapons, 1d100+15
>Dash switch, replaces a injured Wanderer with a healthy one nearby.

Rolled 40 + 10 (1d100 + 10)

>>4506584
>Attack: 1d100+10
>Flesh shape: Armor
3 enemies is a good amount, let's get some protection

Rolled 33 + 20 (1d100 + 20)

>>4506584
Shapely roll
>Iron sword: 1d100+20

Rolled 13 + 20 (1d100 + 20)

>>4506584
Kin warriors l, spear
I'm busy and the other regular, so fight with out me homie
>>4506661

>>4506671
roll for Hermann as well my dude, he uses bo3

Rolled 29, 30, 36 + 10 = 105 (3d100 + 10)

>>4506584

Rolled 45 + 10 (1d100 + 10)

>>4506584
if our shapely can fly and shoot at the same time, let her do that using the longbow

>>4506584
Kin priest can just stay back out of the way, do we need a roll for that?
>>4508111
It's dark out idk if the shapley can see in the dark

Rolled 78 (1d100)

>>4506584

Rolled 9, 98, 22 + 15 = 144 (3d100 + 15)

>>4506627
40+10-10=40
The surprise is gone and the enemy counterattacks. By the time the first strike lands your keratin chitin armor has already formed+20DR. In response you attempt to grapple the nearest enemy, utilizing your superior strength. It's smokey form already hurt from your allies sword, leaving it unable to resist as you crack it's ribcage. Immediately after it's death another dashes forward.
>>4506661
33+20-10=43
The Shapely moves to the curious warrior, jabbing her iron blade through it's abdomen. Miraculously the stab misses all vital organs, letting the Wanderer continue fighting for another minute.
>>4506671
13+20-10=23
The bored warrior continues his assault, running after the next enemy. At this point he has reached the border of the lanterns light, ending his murder charge and making difficult to hit the dark figure.
>>4509144
78+20=98 (Using this as the curious warrior roll, since its unmarked)
Not to be outdone by his brother in arms, the curious warrior burst ahead, skewering the enemy the bored warrior had fought to standstill. The momentum of the impact forces the Wanderer backwards, where it falls off the spear to bleed out.

Hermann the Prime-Biotic
HP 200 + Fleshshaping(175HP) + regen(33/turn)
DR 0(20)
ACTIONS
>Attack: 1d00+10 BO3
>Flesh shape
>Magic
>>Freeze more enemies
>Item
>Write in

??? the Shapely Flyer
HP 100
DR 15
ACTIONS
>Shortbow: 1d00 (ranged)
>Longbow: 1d00+10 (Long range, must land)
>Iron sword: 1d00+20
>Write in

???&??? the Kin warriors
HP 125, 125
DR 20
ACTIONS
>Spear: 1d00 (ranged)
>Spear: 1d00+20
>Write in

??? the Kin Priest
HP 75
DR 10
ACTIONS
>Heal(3/day): 1dX, X=lost HP
>Seeking Spark(2/day): 1d100, cannot roll less than 50
>Holy Flame(1/day): 1d100, repeats this damage every round.
>Write in

Vs.

WanderersX5(3 not engaged)
HP 100,11,100,100(frozen),100(frozen)
DR 10
ACTIONS
>Solid Smoke Weapons, 1d100+15
>Dash switch, replaces a injured Wanderer with a healthy one nearby.

(OOC: sorry about missing yesterday, I'm keeping up with everything. I hope your still enjoying the quest.)

Rolled 76 + 20 (1d100 + 20)

>>4509619
>Magic
>>Freeze more enemies
>Iron sword: 1d00+20
>Spear: 1d00+20
>Seeking Spark(2/day): 1d100, cannot roll less than 50

Hopefully we freeze the Wanderers or kill them before the one that rolled the 98 can get their attack off. I'll roll for the first shapefly

>>4509619

Rolled 1 (1d2)

>>4509619
Rolling for reasons

Rolled 2, 4 + 20 = 26 (2d100 + 20)

>>4509627
>>4509619
Backing I'll roll for the kins again

Rolled 39, 49 + 20 = 108 (2d100 + 20)

>>4509619
Rolling for both of the shapely, melee with spear.

Fuck i meant for us, i'm tired

Rolled 65, 88 + 10 = 163 (2d100 + 10)

>>4509619
Rolling for us, since it's a bo3 and the priest since the guy rolled for both kin warriors

Phone posting
Blizzard just cut the power, I got no internet and need to set up a fire.
Sorry

>>4509730
the curse

>>4509730
where tf do you live? Northern Canada?

>>4509627
76+20-10=86
>>4509619
9+15-15.
The Wanderer slashes into the Shapely's neck before she can finish the job. But the enemy does not expect the durability of porcelain skin, the blade skims off as it dashes to safety, replaced by another of it's number. Her own sword cuts into the body of the replacement in an arc of milky blood.

>>4509653
2+20-10=12 Critical fail :(
4+20-10=14 Critical fail :(
>>4509619
98+15-20=93 Crit!
Both of the Kin engage their newest target, but vastly underestimate it's abilities. Both there attacks miss in the dark, and the bored warrior is grabbed by his foe. As he falls out of the lanterns glow two pikes puncture his head and chest, instantly killing him. The new target moves forward to kill the remaining warrior, landing several gruesome hits.

>>4509701
65+20=75
>>4509619
22+15-20=17
Your remeasure the situation. One man is down, and the other is halfway to death. You need to shut down this fight, fast. As the Wanderer engaging you and the Shapely attacks, you reposition your stasis to capture it. It easily catches you, only realizing it's mistake when your magical circuits flare with power. Within seconds the wounds it left have scabbed over.

>>4509701
88=88
The priest gently swings his censer, spraying yellow sparks that fly towards and around the Shapely. The engaged Wanderer is bathed in these glowing lights, each of which burns streaks through it's shadow like flesh. Many of the lights fly straight through it, scorching internal organs. Any remaining sparks fly after the retreating enemies, killing a a wounded.

Hermann the Prime-Biotic
HP 200 + Fleshshaping(175HP) + regen(33/turn)
DR 0(20)
ACTIONS
>Attack: 1d00+10 BO3
>Flesh shape
>Magic
>>Freeze more enemies
>Item
>Write in

??? the Shapely Flyer
HP 91
DR 15
ACTIONS
>Shortbow: 1d00 (ranged)
>Longbow: 1d00+10 (Long range, must land)
>Iron sword: 1d00+20
>Write in

???&??? the Kin warriors
HP 0, 64
DR 20
ACTIONS
>Spear: 1d00 (ranged)
>Spear: 1d00+20
>Write in

??? the Kin Priest
HP 75
DR 10
ACTIONS
>Heal(3/day): 1dX, X=lost HP
>Seeking Spark(2/day): 1d100, cannot roll less than 50
>Holy Flame(1/day): 1d100, repeats this damage every round.
>Write in

Vs.

WanderersX5(0 not engaged)
HP 100,100,100(Frozen),100(frozen),100(frozen)
DR 10
ACTIONS
>Solid Smoke Weapons, 1d100+15
>Dash switch, replaces a injured Wanderer with a healthy one nearby.

Seeing half there number dead or dying spurs the remaining Wanderers to flee. The fight is over unless you choose to pursue.
>Pursue. One of yours is dead. They will pay tenfold for that.
>Pull back. Let them leave, you have wounds to lick.
>Release. Release the time locked Wanderers so they may flee with their party.
>Write in. Maybe there's still time to do something?

>>4509733
Not if I can help it. I might miss a day or two, or write half asleep, but I don't flake.
>>4510770
Rockies. First snow is always a blizzard here.

>>4510904
>>Pull back. Let them leave, you have wounds to lick.
Let's try talking to the ones we still have frozen

>>4510904
>Pull back. Let them leave, you have wounds to lick.

>>4510925
>>4511083
The Kin lanterns reignite, inducing a frenzy. The priest summons light to spread past the lanterns perimeter, and the curious warrior drags his brother to the camps center. The Shapely dangles a lantern from a rope and takes flight, scouting the area for more threats. You remain still save for a subtle twitch. This shifts the stasis field, uncovering one of the warriors.

It moves to attack, but quickly realizes something is wrong. No other Wanderers, corpses strewn across the nights landscape it, and two of its allies frozen. It realizes it's position. It turns to flee, only to be blocked by the returning Shapely.
"I don't suppose you can understand me?" You try speaking in a few languages.
"Heffu las meh." It whispers it's responses in a foreign tongue.
"Yeah, I didn't think so." With another subtle move the Wanderer is frozen once more.

At the moment you have a several worries. You can't move more than 10 meters away from the stasis field without it failing. There's potential more threats could come, or reinforcements could arrive. Finally, there's the Kin with a hole in it's head. What do you deal with first?
>Interrogate. Try talking to the Wanderer again. Maybe you can work out some vague communication.
>Kin. Discuss with the priest and remaining warrior. Maybe you can do something?
>Move. You'll have to abandon the Wanderer captives, or find a way to bring them with you.

>>4511109
>Kin. Discuss with the priest and remaining warrior. Maybe you can do something?

>>4511109
>Kin. Discuss with the priest and remaining warrior. Maybe you can do something?

>>4511114
>>4511135
The bored warrior lies on the ground, soaking the dirt with translucent green blood. The priest hovers a lantern over his wounds. The chest has been punctured all the way through, while the side of the head has been punctured, leaving a gaping wound of shattered chitin and grey matter. The rhythmic contraction of his abdomen, how the Kin breathe, has stopped.
"Can you save him?" You ask.
"The brain has been damaged. I could slow his bodies death, but the soul is taking flight. I'm afraid there's nothing we can do. Only the greatest among us could perform a miracle to pull this child from the next life." The Kin priest keeps his head down, examining the body and refusing eye contact.
"Can we prepare the body?" The curious warrior asks. You notice a faint smell, like wet moss. Your inserted knowledge of Kin language informs you it's the pheromone equivalent of tears.

The priest finally turns to you. "We will need to heat the body to remove moisture. After that we can remove the outer shell. The usual process involves smoking the body above a bed of coals, but this can be quite lengthy. It would take at least a full day without a premade arificusory, or some other method of treating the body."
"If its that long just leave him. He's just a soldier." The Shapely is greeted by the glares of the remaining warrior.
"Unlike you faceless we care for all our people." He spits out. The Shapely is initially taken back, but quickly retaliates.
"Religious brainwashing is hardly love ROACH!" She starts to yell, but you step in before more can be said.

"Let's save the racial slurs for later. For now we need to"
>Try. Have the priest attempt to heal the bored warrior. He has to try.
>Prepare the body. Dig out a hole, strip the body, light a fire, cover it, etc.
>No, Take what you can and mourn, but a whole day is too risky.
>Write in. There has to be something you can do!

>>4512395
>Try. Have the priest attempt to heal the bored warrior. He has to try.

Hey maybe we'll get a 100

>>4512395
try.

perhaps this is a day of miracles, yeah?

>>4512399
>>4513624
"You say he can can be healed?" You question.
"My faith can heal the body, but I cannot save him. Unless one of us brings forth a miracle then his death is guaranteed. Best to save my healing for the already injured." The priests words dismay you, but you remain resolute.
"No, we only need to hold until your healing is restored. For now, lets hope for a miracle." You attempt a smile, but the priest remains dismayed. Nonetheless his hand lay on the body, and utters a prayer. The wounds glow with gentle yellow light.

Roll 2d100. First is health restored, second is percentage of health restored after that.

Do you do anything as the healing occurs?
>Write in?

Rolled 12, 7 = 19 (2d100)

>>4513674

>Try grafting our flesh onto him to see if it’s restorative powers do something

>>4513676
Welp he had a nice run

>>4513674
Forgot to mention, this is best of 3

Rolled 56, 1 = 57 (2d100)

>>4513705

Rolled 20, 10 = 30 (2d100)

>>4513674
I’ll go ahead and roll again since I think it’s been a while since the last one

>>4513753
1 Super Critical failure!
>>4513753
56
>>4513817
10

The flesh around the wounds melts and flows like wax. The wounds reform, but in awkward forms, chitin for skin, and flesh in place if skull. Based on the priests expression, that is not supposed to happen. By the time the body has reformed it looks like a Frankenstein. The priest closes his eyes and mutters a prayer. The second dose of healing causes squelching sounds of internal flesh reshaping, and a horrible crack of bone snapping into, or perhaps out off, place.

In a minute the work is done. The body twitches, and you all stare. Slowly the bored warrior rises, many eyes locked onto the priest, who matches the gaze with mixed excitement and horror.
"My child, how do you feel?" He asks.
"CRIEEE!" The warrior looses a chittering scream and charges the priest! Clawing at him with raking claws on malformed limbs. Do something!

Hermann the Prime-Biotic
HP 200 + Fleshshaping(175HP) + regen(33/turn)
DR 0(20)
ACTIONS
>Attack: 1d00+10 BO3
>Flesh shape
>Magic
>Item
>Write in

Rolled 49 + 10 (1d100 + 10)

>>4513846
Forgot to roll for the warrior

>>4513846
>Magic
>>Freeze him

We could take him back alive or something. He' can atleast be researched or maybe cured back at the hive.

>>4513930
>>4513846
Backing this guy, but uh I think we're giving the priest PTSD and made him commit heresy, so we might have to kill them

>>4513930
>>4513997
Shit, that went really bad and the priests lower arm has been torn from his body. Whatever that thing is, it's not Kin anymore. You still have the Attackers frozen, but you can use your 10 second freeze on a single target.
(No roll as apology for being late)
Before anyone else can react you've cast your negation spell, freezing the warrior.

"What the hell was that!?" The Shapely is yelling, and it's not helping you focus.
"Gahhh! help!" The priest is now limply grasping it detached limb, trying to heal the limb back on. Unfortunately, the grasp of the bored warri- the thing has caused it wither, making it resistant to healing. The priest is badly injured. HP: 16/75
"Can you both shut up!? I need to focus." Your trying to slow your breathing and keep focus between the two time stopped zones. Thank whatever you believe in, your skilled enough in magic that you can multitask, but you need to keep precise timing to keep refreshing the negation spell.

The curious warrior wraps the priests wounds, and you all calm down a touch. The Shapely ties the thing up in rope, but it's only a stopgap if your spell fails. The priest explains that they are forbidden from healing the dead, but he thought that since the bored warrior wasn't technically dead, it wouldn't be a violation. Even, worse, that now frozen creature drained the divine light from his body with a touch.
"Soo, now what? Can we just kill it?" The Shapely asks getting more glares from the Kin. But she has a point, [What should you do?/i]
>Kill it. While it's frozen the Shapely can line up a shot with her long bow.
>Release it. Let it go in either the depths or this island.
>Keep it. Your not letting anything show but.. well you still have feelings. Whether you respect him as a soldier, or even as a friend, you can't let him go.
>Write in. Wrack your head. What can you do?

>>4517446
>Keep it. Your not letting anything show but.. well you still have feelings. Whether you respect him as a soldier, or even as a friend, you can't let him go.

let's just go back our morale is shot. I'm sure the Kin will be interested in researching what happened to this guy. We already got the magic surgery anyways.

>>4517446
>>Kill it. While it's frozen the Shapely can line up a shot with her long bow.
>>4517561
Bro this thing needs to die, and I say that as the guy who rolled the 1, we cant risk it draining more people

>>4517561
>>4517835
(OOC)For the future, would you prefer I roll for a decision, or wait for a consensus?

>>4517851
Uh, rolling would be cool with me while theres only a couple of us, really anytime the votes drags on for too long

File: live or die.jpg (38 KB, 713x381)

38 KB JPG

Rolled 2 (1d2)

>>4517561
>>4517835

File: damn_good_stuff_sir.gif (322 KB, 500x200)

322 KB GIF

>>4517864
I now strongly support rolling

>>4517864
"Priest, what's the danger of this?" You stay level headed, this used to be an ally, now its a threat.
"I can't say for sure, but he is likely more durable than before, and significantly stronger. As for the minds capabilities, that is uncertain." The priest responds, both of you watching the other as you think.
"We should kill it. No matter our feelings, we can't afford the risk it poses." You pause for a second, then turn away from the priest. "I'm sorry."
"...It is understandable. After it is done we will need to destroy the body, it is tainted." Wincing at his torn limb, he begins packing his censer and organizing religious materials. Still, he faces his former guardian when the arrow slams through it's skull at point blank range. He does not flinch, though the curious warrior does.

Soon the body has been covered in sanctified oils and lit ablaze, brighter than any lantern. The priest, Shapely, and remaining warrior watch the fire, but not you. You may mourn later if needed, but now is time for decisions. Tensions are rising between the species differences, likely brought on by this new trauma. Your still in a threat zone. And of course, you have the prisoners. The Shapely calls you an officer, so act like one.
>Interrogate. Back to the captured Wanderers. The night is long, and you have a lot to ask.
>Move. You saw that these guys exceed in fast bursts of movement. Does that indicate a lack of stamina?
>Mourn. Try to recover the spirits of your party, or at least feel a bit better yourself.

>>4517902
>Interrogate. Back to the captured Wanderers. The night is long, and you have a lot to ask

>>4517909
>>4517902
Backing

>>4517909
+1

>>4517909
>>4517949
>>4518977
You unfreeze the same Wanderer and stare it down, the corpse fire casting your front in darkness. The captive is led to your sleeping skins, and made to sit. The next hours are spent talking back and forth attempting to discern the others language. He, you have surmised it's a male, is surprisingly compliant. Perhaps it fears you, or it's society permits the capture of enemies. Either way, it seems unlikely to attack. At least not now, not while it's allies are frozen in surprise.
DC 75 1d100+15(3 known languages), best 1 of 3.

Rolled 44 + 15 (1d100 + 15)

>>4519059

Rolled 30 + 15 (1d100 + 15)

>>4519059

Rolled 82 + 15 (1d100 + 15)

>>4519059
gimme a 60 rolls have been too shit lately

>>4519155
Thank you anon!

File: tegaki.png (137 KB, 400x400)

137 KB PNG

>>4519155
82+15=97 Success :)
Your able to work out some crude understanding. The Wanderers have two languages, Tiak and Sushu. Tiak is a language of clicks and screams which travel far in the caves, while Sushu is full of quiet whispers excellent for stealth. That would explain the bloodcurdling wails from below the earth. Sushu is vaguely similar to Gelthik, an easy to parse with enough time. Perhaps a linguistic relative? You can find out later, for now, you have information to gleam.

The Wanderers are attacking you for trespassing on there land, which you did not leave when they tried to scare you off. This attack was meant to scare you off, not kill any off you, but they had no idea your party was so dangerous. He says that should his trapped warparty be spared he will bring back word of your killing. You will safe from most tribes so long as you stay out of the caves. You ponder if this deal is worth it?
>Yes. Let them go.
>No.
>Write in.

It takes several minutes just to work out a single question and answer. However, the others are still mourning the crumbling body of the curious warrior, and won't sleep anytime soon. You have time for questions if you wish. [Is there anything worth asking?]
Multiple can be chosen, but each will take more time.
>Local Geography. A map would be nice.
>First-of-Steel. What's the Wanderer opinion on the metal men?
>Themselves. These ghostly beings are a strange species. But then again, so is everything you've met so far.
>Write in. Questions abound. Do they know of any artifacts, or perhaps how your own items function?

>>4520000
>No.
>Local Geography. A map would be nice.
>Do you know of any artifacts?
>Themselves. These ghostly beings are a strange species. But then again, so is everything you've met so far.

>>4520101
>>4520000
Backing this dood

>>4520101
>>4520119
>Local Geography. A map would be nice.
He draws out a crude map of mountains into the dirt, 7 of which poke above the depths to form islands. The range starts at the First-of-Steel's island west side, and carries on that way, curving slightly south.(OOC I'll draw a map at work tomorrow) He shows some of the caves systems, but you fail to understand it's mapping. Whatever is down the makes very little sense. He does inform you of a curious property however. Many of the caves descend below "sea level," yet remain insulated from the effects of the depths.
>Do you know of any artifacts?
Your prisoner is initially confused, but your own artifacts spur his memory. It points to your Scorched Rock and motions downward, mentioning some kind of liquid... rock? Your can't be sure. On it's dirt map it pokes parts of the First-of-Steel island, making gestures with it's own weapon, which shifts shape to match the Wanderers description. It seems that there are constructed items there, but are fiercely protected by the locals. Even better, on the mountains are gleaming metal constructs, made from before the world formed, when the primordial sea consumed all. He makes grand gestures as it explains this, at one point posing and pointing to the sky. After a second of this he remembers his current state, and sits back down. You didn't know shadows could blush.
>Themselves. These ghostly beings are a strange species. But then again, so is everything you've met so far.
Alright then, how about his own people? It's pretty simple actually. They are nomads who travel the underground tunnels, migrating every few months. To avoid depleting the local resources they leave once game and harvest become sparse. This gives the caverns ecosystem time to replenish. Each tribe has different beliefs, but they tend to be xenophobic and guarded. Reasonable, considering there neighbors occasional hunt them down as part of a "Great Achievement."
After your questions are all answered you consider his earlier plea. Honestly, you see no need to let them go. They attacked you, and the survivors will spread word anyways. At this the Wanderer grows nervous, but hesitates to do anything. But how many to keep?
>Prisoner. Just the one you interrogated.
>All. Take them all with you. Difficult, but perhaps more leverage?
>Write in. Arrange this a bit differently.

>>4520174
The others have finished with the body. The Shapely is still agitated, but seems the most calm. Surprising considering she was the one who pulled back the bow to end it. Or perhaps she simply hides her emotions? A funny idea, for the masked species to wear a metaphorical mask.
"Hermann, we need to talk." The priest lays a hand on your shoulder.
"What? Can't you see I'm busy?" You try not to sound annoyed, though you probably failed. The priest pauses to think before responding.
"I think it may be time. We have traveled for almost a month now, and we have accomplished more than I could have imagined. But our troubles mount."
"Can it wait? We need to finish here at least."
"...Yes, but know this. Our dead warrior was a mentor to the living. And the living has never fought before. He came seeking adventure, as the young do. And I only came because I am old. The hive can afford to lose me. But each day my sickness worsens, both from the depths, and from injury."
"Is that all?" You respond instantly. The priest is silent, leaving a cold spot where his warm hand just laid.

For now what's your plan? The Wanderers are dangerous here, but the surface will be relatively safe. And there's the artifacts to consider. What's the plan?
>Till the end. Reach the end of the mountain range. Hopefully with no more misfortune.
>Quit while ahead. Just head back to your basecamp.
>Descend deep down. You're not leaving without loot. And the others need something to bring back, right?

>>4520178
>>4520174
>Write in. Arrange this a bit differently.
Just accept his deal, we cant be dragging a prisoner all the way back to our islands

>quit while you're ahead, head back to basecamp and prepare to head back to the home islands

>>4520188
+1

Reasonably successful for a first trip. The death puts a damper on things though.

>>4520193
Actually change my vote to
>Prisoner. Just the one you interrogated

I want to bring him back.

>>4520193
Yeah but at least it was only one!

File: Wanderer&First-of-Steel i(...).png (147 KB, 1835x1210)

147 KB PNG

>>4520193
>>4520195
>>4520198
Map. I'll post the actual response later

Rolled 2 (1d2)

>>4520188
>>4520195

>>4521001
You ponder the options for a few minutes. As much as you crave adventure, you need to consider the journey back. You already have maps of the area, know the path between the two archipelagoes, and obtained precious information on magic surgery. Not to mention you've been acting overly emotional. Now would be an ideal end point. Sighing, you gather up your sleeping furs and camping gear, the other party members following suit. Finally, you release the two Wanderers, keeping the one you've been interrogating.

The trip to basecamp is significantly safer. As your out foraging food the Shapely makes a touchdown nearby.
"You know the roaches are fragile, but I'm not. Uh, what I mean is; I'm a trained soldier. So don't feel like this mission is comprised because of me. Okay?" She seems nervous about something, avoiding eye contact as she trails off. Or maybe she's worried about a reprimand?
"Sure? Did you not want to go?" You try to avoid excess confusion to the unexpected line.
"I am, ah, it doesn't matter. I will follow my officers orders, they know better."
"Great... I'll keep that in mind if I stay here longer."

Strange. Hopefully the Kin are being more reasonable. The curios warrior(just the warrior now, your dark thoughts intrude) has organizing food gathered on the island, sorting what will keep and what need to be smoked for travel rations. The priest is working on prayers. Both occasionally glance at a dark corner where the Wanderer sleeps. You feel vaguely dreamlike, preparing for the trek back. You suppose it's time to message your clone and inform of your return. But what to say?.
>We're coming back. All of you will be returning, with riches and tales of new lands. Well not really, your clone has already told stories of your journeys.
>The Kin return. The Kin warrior and priest will come back, but you will stay with the Shapely.
>I'll stay. You will wait here, while the others make the journey back.
>Write. Maybe you can call reinforcements? Or something else unexpected.

>>4521058
>>We're coming back. All of you will be returning, with riches and tales of new lands. Well not really, your clone has already told stories of your journeys.

>>4521058
>We're coming back. All of you will be returning, with riches and tales of new lands. Well not really, your clone has already told stories of your journeys.

File: Depths AI generated.png (419 KB, 512x512)

419 KB PNG

>>4521295
>>4521327
Everyone should head back. Splitting the group in the depths is often a fatal mistake. Assuming good time you can make the journey in 2 weeks. However, the first sunset in the depths dissuades that notion. The priest once more develops holes in his shell, but these do not fade with time. On the second day the warrior wakes up with amnesia, forgetting the name of his brother in arms. Even you are effected, both mornings you woke up with cracks in your shell, and your otherworld sight gives flashes of corpses so numerous they form a bloody marsh stretching across the horizon. It seems navigating home will be harder than leaving it.
Roll 1d100, best of 3. No DC.

Herman(YOU), 48lb carryweight: Flameless lantern(2), Iron lantern(2), Iron sword(3), Backpack(1), Axe(2), Camping gear(10), 19 Rations(28)
Kin Priest, 45lb carryweight: Flameless lantern(2), Censer(1), Bags(1), Religious paraphernalia(2), Sleeping skins(2), Black&Blue Armor(30), 5 Rations(7.5)
Driftwood warrior 1, 75lb carryweight: 2 Flameless lantern(4), Bronze sword(2), Sleeping skins(2), Bags(1), 44 Rations(66)
Shapely flyer, 30lb carryweight: Iron lantern(2), Iron Sword(3), Sleeping skins(2), Backback(1), Longbow(2), Shortbow(1), Arrows(5), 2 Rations(3)
16 days of food

Rolled 16 (1d100)

>>4522197

Rolled 88 (1d100)

>>4522197

Rolled 14 (1d100)

>>4522197
I’ll roll again since it’s been a while

>>4522252
With spit, grit, and several nightmares, you lead the group back through the depths. The priest's condition even stabilizes upon return, though he still looks like swiss cheese. And your return is great. A procession of important figures line up for your party, having been forewarned by your clone. Kin retrieve the priest and immediately bring him to the hive for treatment, while the warrior is greeted by his ilk. But his mood is still dampened by the death of his, you realize finally, his friend. The Shapely is greeted by the blank masks of nobles, who quietly escort her away for questioning.

Of course, even through the Chaos, you see the high priests turn to you, your own parties priest whispering in there ears. For better or worse, your secret is there's now. And soon to be the Shapley's. That's a problem for later. For now, you are tired and ready to sleep in a real bed. Party's can wait till tomorrow. Of course, before you can do either, you must attend to the matter of your clones work. You already know everything of course, but your still needed for the final touches. What were those again?

40 days ago, Clone POV: The original has just set off for an adventure, which leaves you in charge. First order of business: the shrine. You have a variety of materials to use, each pulsing with eldritch energy. Some aren't present at the moment, but you can still build in anticipation of there return. [/i]What is the central item?[/i]
>Silt. Dredged up from the depths. Eerie, but brings a soothing sensation. Don't hold it during sunset.
>Waterlogged Wood. Capable of producing black waters in the other world. You've seen men drown in air when this artifact is used.
>Scorched Rock. Wreathed in invisible fire, it's haze burns memory and flesh alike. Sunlight and the Kins divine light makes it magnitudes stronger.
>Write in. Anything from a Kin lantern, to the Black&Blue armor that will be discovered later, to adventuring out for another substance such as monster flesh.
>Two for two. Choose two items to use in tandem.

>>4522391
>Scorched Rock. Wreathed in invisible fire, it's haze burns memory and flesh alike. Sunlight and the Kins divine light makes it magnitudes stronger.

>>4522424
The Scorched Rock has few known properties, but you know it's related to light, heat, and the earth. You'll need someplace significant to place it. The Tower will expose it to the sky, with unpredictable weather and distance from the depths. Or you could keep it in the shrines center, where it will be easily controlled. Perhaps you could dig down and place it in the earth? Something in you mind tingles, the Wanderers description of liquid stone flowing underground. Which will you use?
>Tower. The highest point of the shrine.
>Center. Metaphorically the most important place in the shrine.
>Down. Like a water well within the shrine.

>>4523646
>Down. Like a water well within the shrine.

>>4523686
+1

>>4523686
>>4524577
Shit, I posted yesterday but apparently it didn't go through.
I'm just going to make a new thread in a day or two, when this when drops off the board.

>>4525613
See you then thanks for the run man!