>>5460371
>"Got it. Not a problem." (Hidden Death)
>Throw me at the mercy of RNJesus, baby.

>>5460371
>"Got it. Not a problem." (Hidden Death)
>All QMs should admit to being wannabe gamedevs.

Please, god, no b03 on d20, I'd curse you and your quest to the grave.

>>5460371
>"Let it be done." (Sage's Spirit)
>Throw me at the mercy of RNJesus, baby.

Sage advice #1: RNG is a great and terrible lover.

>>5460371
>Got it, Not a problem [Hidden death]
I presume this to be the somewhat free spirited [pun intended] shadow assassin.

>All QM's should want to be game devs
The interesting quests usually are narritive focused or with somewhat unique mechanics.
I hope you have an Idea QM.

>>5460371
>"Let it be done." (Sage's Spirit)
Oh it's magic time.
>Throw me at the mercy of RNJesus, baby.
Dice is an addictive mistress.

>>5460371
>"Your wish is my command." (Oathsworn Protector)
'Luv me Death Knights, simple as.
>I'm just here for the story, man.

I'll leave votes open until 1 PM EST.
Since RPG Mechanics seems to be in the lead for gameplay, here's a quick outline of what it might look like.

---

We roll using an RPG stat-based system with bonuses and additional dice based on factors like stats, equipment, and upgrades.

Degree of success is based on thresholds; for example, an action to convince someone could have a 20/30/40 check, and the relevant stats would mean the MC rolls a 3d10+15. Results become increasingly more favorable with each threshold passed.

To maintain narrative flow, except for combat scenarios I'll typically be the only one rolling - not much point in breaking apart updates for someone to make a single roll - but how stats are distributed and whatnot is entirely up to you guys. Raise the MC how you see fit.

---

If you decide you still like the sound of it, I'll make a follow-up vote to determine how we'll handle combat mechanics. I don't want to have a drawn-out slugfest since that's a pain for you guys to play and for me to write, but with this kind of system a more in-depth approach is really the only way to go without horrendously warping game balance.

>>5460371
>"Your wish is my command." (Oathsworn Protector)
>Throw me at the mercy of RNJesus, baby.
Protecting her is literally in the class name. Don't like too much crunch in a quest.

>>5460371
>"Your wish is my command." (Oathsworn Protector)
>All QMs should admit to being wannabe gamedevs.

>>5460371
>"Your wish is my command." (Oathsworn Protector)
>Throw me to the whims of RNGsus

>>5460371
>>"Your wish is my command." (Oathsworn Protector)
>All QMs should admit to being wannabe gamedevs.
Let's give some meat to the dice checks, okay? And also, yes, yes most of them should.

>>5460371
>"Got it. Not a problem." (Hidden Death)
>All QMs should admit to being wannabe gamedevs.

>>5460371
>"Let it be done." (Sage's Spirit)
>All QMs should admit to being wannabe gamedevs.

Running a tally. Gonna close mechanics vote early so I can get started on hashing out that system. Class vote will continue until the scheduled time (~3.5 hours).
---
Mechanics tally
RNJesus: 5
RPG: 6
Narrative: 1 (damn)
---
Class tally (keep voting, this is just for reference)
Oathsworn: 5
Death: 4
Sage: 3

>>5460371
>>"Got it. Not a problem." (Hidden Death)
>>Throw me at the mercy of RNJesus, baby.

COMBAT MECHANICS VOTE
---
Do you prefer a rich, interactive turn-based combat system? Vote for this. Utilizes Health, Mana, etc. Under this system, in order to complete combat segments on time, we'll play fights out to completion in first-vote-wins formats, then I'll translate the results into a story. If there are no votes within 15-30 minutes, I'll get things started myself, with voters free to interrupt and take over whenever they want.
>Yes, give me my glorious gladiatorial combat. Fuck you, QM.

Would you prefer to skip past all the chunky details? Vote for this. Combat is plan-based (i.e, "throw sand in his face and snap his ankles like twigs") and treated as an event containing a series of checks with according degrees of success. Rolls will be made whenever they make sense. The nature of this results in combat resolving more quickly.
>This is the only reasonable option, why would you even put this up to vote. Because I love my Questers and QMing means practicing an extreme form of masochism.

>>5460690
>>Yes, give me my glorious gladiatorial combat. Fuck you, QM.
MAXIMUM PAIN

>>5460690
>>Yes, give me my glorious gladiatorial combat. Fuck you, QM.
I love you

I'll be shamelessly cribbing the system in Option 1 off of a good friend's off-site Quest, anyways. You're all dead to me.

>>5460690
>This is the only reasonable option, why would you even put this up to vote.

>>5460690
>This is the only reasonable option, why would you even put this up to vote.
I’ll be nice

>>5460690
>Plan based

The fuck would you do the first one you fool

I'll take it! Plan-based it is, MY BRAIN DOESN'T NEED TO MELT, YAHOO

I have most of the update written out, just waiting for the class vote to close so I can finalize details and personality. Currently tied between Hidden Death and Oathsworn Protector. Reminder that votes close at 1 PM EST.

>>5460699
>You're all dead to me.
Of course we are, it's in the third line

>>5460726
>>5460561
I'll swap my vote over to (Oathsworn Protector) so we can keep going.

>>5460371
>"Got it. Not a problem." (Hidden Death)
We might be (un)dead, but we'll make other things even deaderer

Looks like there's a tie again. Normally I'd roll to tiebreak, but I've written so much by now it'd honestly be a waste to throw it all out. Closing votes and declaring Oathsworn victory.

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You are not her brother. You will likely never replace him, even if your master were to order you to do so. However, there are vague, fragmented memories–enough for you to adopt certain mannerisms. If you were the servant of anyone lesser, even pre-programmed speech would be beyond you, let alone the intelligent consciousness you currently boast.

>"Your wish is my command." (Oathsworn Protector)

>Stats Adjusted: +6 STR, +10 END, +4 AGI, +1 All Other Stats
>+5 Stats to be Distributed

>You have reached a Stat Milestone. +1 END Perk Point stockpiled.

Thankfully, you are more than a poorly-puppeteered meat sack, for the one you swear fealty to is far beyond a mere hedge mage.

Yes–you are proud to say that your master is none other than the heiress to the esteemed House of Hassan, a noble family unparalleled in their practice of the necromantic arts.

Your master in tow, you grip the leather-wrapped hilt of your host body's greatsword, the iron certainty of rigor mortis granting you a brittle kind of strength. All the while, your developing mind processes and extracts the information packets embedded within the arcane formulas of your gestation.

It's a surreal feeling, suddenly [i]knowing[/i] things like this, with no true worldly experience to build this foundation upon. Even now, you recognize the circumstances of your "birth" have resulted in a sloppy patch-job, with large chunks of missing data and imperfect integration with your host.

–That said, it's not your job to complain, and "sloppy" from a Hassan would be considered "outstanding" coming from the hands of anyone else.

Setting aside your pride in your master, it's time to solve the issue of your immediate surroundings. There is a clear and present danger, and as much as you'd like to bring down your blade upon those who'd dare to threaten your charge, the reality of the situation is that you need to reposition and assess your surroundings. To that end…

As an undead, pushing your body to its breaking point is of little concern. You utilize that unique advantage now, settling upon a preparatory stance and pressing your charge close to your chest.

The world slows–

>Recollection Rate DC: 1/20/40/60/80/100 | Roll: 1d100+15(Arts of the Hassan: Blood That Binds) = 52

>Passive Technique Recalled: Vanguard March.

>Vanguard March (3): Add 75% of your END to all AGI checks when moving to protect someone.

>AGI DC: 10/15/20 | Roll: 2d6+10(0.75)(Vanguard March) = 2d6+7 = 11

–and you burst through the fog of war like a steel-shod cannonball, a vortex of dust trailing in your wake. Dispassionately, you note the shouts of surprise that accompany your sudden appearance, barreling through skirmishes and duels alike without care for obstacles or your own safety. Fire and frost pepper your form, but nothing will stand in your way.

Your master presses herself closer against you, her eyes squeezed shut.

You will protect her. You must.

Finally, you reach the edge of battle, a no-man's land that's been blasted to bits. Strangely, not a single body can be found.

>CUN DC: 15/30/??? | Roll: 1d6 = AUTOFAIL

You shake your head. That's not important right now. Moving quickly, you duck into the nearest shelter you can find.

Surveying your charges wounds with a critical eye, you come to the abrupt realization that you're sorely underequipped to deal with any of her injuries. The best you have is a flask of lukewarm water attached to your hip; moving carefully, you wash around her wounds as best you can, suppressing automatic apologies every time she winces or hisses when you touch something sensitive.

It's barely even a stopgap measure. As the weight of your inadequacy bears down on you, self-recriminations begin to fill your mind–

"It's, okay…"

You blink, nonplussed, as your master gently pats your hand. She coughs and turns to the side, spitting into the dirt before continuing.

"This is–a test. Just… have to be part of the last fifty..."

She takes her hand off of yours, shifting to point at a broad white band embroidered into her robes. You watch as red strings woven into the cloth shift and shimmer before your eyes, counting down in sudden stops and starts. 230, 229, 213…

Next to it, you notice another number–a small, stationary 1, threaded in black. Underneath it, written in finer print, is the word "Points."

"Do you–understand?"

You turn your gaze back to your master, taking her in properly for the first time.

Pale. Bony and thin, to the point where you're concerned for her nutrition. Thick bags ring her eyes, a testament to…

Countless hours spent studying, practicing, slavishly preparing for the day she undertakes Eden's trials. And you, watching over her.

"Do you [i]understand?[/i]"

She repeats herself, more firmly this time.

[i]The last of the Hassan.[/spoiler]

—

>Find someone that can heal your master. More hands make short work. The survival of the Hassan is paramount.
DCs: Medium. Benefits: Improved aid from your master, potential allies, reduced risk of failure. Doesn't step on any toes.

>...You'll take up your sword in her name. If all she needs is to be part of the last 50, then you'll just carve down everyone in your way.
DCs: Medium. Benefits: Large EXP potential. Increased Recollection Rate. Establishes the superiority of the Hassan name.

>Write-in?

>>5460880
>Find someone that can heal your master. More hands make short work. The survival of the Hassan is paramount.
No idea how much blood she's lost before she managed to raise us from then dead. Better make sure she won't bleed out before the count hits 50.

also wow, a free-for-all deathmatch? Eden doesn't fuck around even if I doubt that anyone has actually died

Formatting is unfortunately fucked because 4chan is gay and won't let me italicize shit while I'm not at home, alas. Do enjoy.

Character Sheet
https://pastebin.com/jzXFtpRD

I'll draft up the t1 Perk points for END in a bit, vote on where you'll put your Stat points for now.

>5460880
>>Find someone that can heal your master. More hands make short work. The survival of the Hassan is paramount.
I hope this isn't just some hidden fate quest

>>5460880
>>...You'll take up your sword in her name. If all she needs is to be part of the last 50, then you'll just carve down everyone in your way.

>>5460880
>Find someone that can heal your master. More hands make short work. The survival of the Hassan is paramount.
Can't have our Master go and bleed out before the match finishes.

>>5460890
>Eden doesn't fuck around even if I doubt that anyone has actually died
Pretty sure we died and was necromanced, anon. Most likely we were a sibling team competing in this competition until it was just the sister left.

>>5460880
>Find someone that can heal your master. More hands make short work. The survival of the Hassan is paramount.

>>5460897
>I hope this isn't just some hidden fate quest
Gotta second this. I'm out if it's fateshit.

>>5460880
>Find someone that can heal your master. More hands make short work. The survival of the Hassan is paramount.
As much as I’d love to go on killing spree, we’ve got a hurt imouto to deal with first. Also, how do you plan on doing updates?

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>>5460907
>Pretty sure we died and was necromanced, anon. Most likely we were a sibling team competing in this competition until it was just the sister left.
Hrm. Fair point, I focused on the fact that there were no corpses to be seen a bit too much maybe

>>5460880
>Find someone that can heal your master. More hands make short work. The survival of the Hassan is paramount.

So, as far as stat increases go, I'm leaning towards at least doing:
>+4 CUN

We have a bonus to agility from our skill, so cunning seems like a safe bet as one of our lowest skills. From what I can tell, every 2 points in a stat gives us an additional d6 to rolls, idk if odd numbers do anything so I don't really have an oppinion on what to so with the last one. Maybe bank it for later?

>>5460897
>>5460923
I just like Fate art. Original setting (or about as original as "magic battle academy" can get).

>>5460880
>...You'll take up your sword in her name. If all she needs is to be part of the last 50, then you'll just carve down everyone in your way.
I'm just here for Violence

>>5460989
Could be we're in some sort of magic battle simulation, though if that were the case why would our master need to bring us back from the dead to serve? Maybe the simulation remove the bodies of fallen combatants, or they just get disconnected from the Matrix if it's non-lethal?
Whatever the case may be, priority is to ensure we and our Master live through the battle royale. We'll figure out what rules apply as we go along.

>>5461010
Could be someone else raised the bodies en mass.

>>5460997
Good. Fate art can be good, when it's not pure coomerism. Fate itself and its autistic fanbase are both complete dogshit.

>>5461016
That is what I'm assuming too. Raised en mass or otherwise used up in some sort of ritual.

>>5460997
I got worried because it as the art, the name and being some sort of battle royale with a master and servant.
Every single fate quest crashed and burned, so if it isn't a disguised one, this might survive.

TIER 1 ENDURANCE PERKS

>Forged in Iron - While on solid ground, gain a 10% bonus to END based on your Armor modifier.

>Death Defied (Minor) - 5% Chance to turn a Mortal Wound into a Major Wound.

>Form-Fitting - Reduce AGI/DEX penalties from equipped Armor by 25%.

>(Undead) Fatal Vigor - While you have less than 3 Major Wounds, reduce their applied penalties by 50%.
---
Prettied up (kinda) and added some additional stuff to the character sheet. I recommend checking it out.

>>5461101
This is a "Select one" kind of deal in case it wasn't obvious. Also, I would seriously advise using the Stat points you have in stock right now, there's very little benefit to holding onto them. I'm a bit leery of putting 4 points into CUN based on just a single vote.

>>5461101
>Form-Fitting - Reduce AGI/DEX penalties from equipped Armor by 25%.

>>5461101
>Death Defied (Minor) - 5% Chance to turn a Mortal Wound into a Major Wound.

>>5461101
>(Undead) Fatal Vigor - While you have less than 3 Major Wounds, reduce their applied penalties by 50%.

>>5461101
>Form-Fitting - Reduce AGI/DEX penalties from equipped Armor by 25%.
4 points in str and 1 in agi

>>5461101
>Form-Fitting - Reduce AGI/DEX penalties from equipped Armor by 25%.
We're actually heavily armored right now, so this is probably the best way to increase our fighting capability.

For points I want to put enough into DEX so we roll 2d6 on it's checks, then put the rest in STR. We're a punchmeat monster plain and simple, STR and END are our main stats but rounding out DEX so we can punch faster is probably not a bad idea, especially since we have a +10 on attack rolls.

>>5460880
>Take up the sword.

>>5461101
>Form fitting

>>5461101
>Form-Fitting - Reduce AGI/DEX penalties from equipped Armor by 25%.

>>5461139
I support this distribution. 2 points into DEX (It's 1d6 per 2 points, right?) and 2 into STR. Master can do the thinking, we're the meatshield.

>>5461101
>Form-Fitting - Reduce AGI/DEX penalties from equipped Armor by 25%.

Why is everyone voting to spend only four points when we have 5?, specially since QM said there's little benefit holding them? Or am I blind and missed something?

Leaving votes up until... 8 PM EST, give or take an hour. Seems like searching for a healer and taking Form-Fitting are in the lead.

>>5461101
>Form-Fitting - Reduce AGI/DEX penalties from equipped Armor by 25%.

>>5461150
Single points don't seem to provide any benefit, we might as well save them and spend 6 on the next level up.

>>5461101
>Form-Fitting - Reduce AGI/DEX penalties from equipped Armor by 25%.
2 STR, 2 DEX, 1 CUN. Can't just work out the muscles in our arms

Seems like voting has slowed down, so I'll close early and get a head start writing. I've gotta prepare dinner soon, so it won't be done for a little while. Should be out later tonight, though. I'm in a good flow right now.
—
>Plan of Action
Find A Healer: 6
Kill Them All: 3
>Perk Point
Form-Fitting by a landslide.
>Stat Allocation
4 CUN: 1
4 STR, 1 AGI: 1
2 DEX, 2 STR: 3

1 Stat Point banked. Got it. Sheet updated.

Rolled 14 (1d100)

Encounter Roll.

>>5461364
So is this a good roll or a very bad roll?

Rolled 6, 3, 4, 4, 3 + 14 = 34 (5d6 + 14)

END Roll. DC 10/20/30.

Rolled 5 (1d6)

CUN Roll. DC 5/10/15.

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>Find someone that can heal your master. More hands make short work.

"I understand," you murmur. "I will not disappoint you."

She holds your gaze for a moment longer, then leans back and lets out a quiet sigh. For a long moment, your master simply lays there, unblinking, staring up at the distant sky. It's almost as if she's–

Your frozen heart suddenly beats in a wild panic. No, no, no, no. There's no way. Has she really–?

"Huu…"

Oh. She's just fallen asleep.

With her eyes wide open.

False alarm.

Even with your dulled emotions, a faint feeling of embarrassment works its way through your body. Cradling the girl in your arms, you stand upright, careful not to jostle her awake.

Your concern proves largely unnecessary–she's exhausted enough that not even the clanking of your armor as you run across the battlefield manages to stir her from her sleep.

It shames you to admit it, but you're not yet strong enough to protect your master while she's like this. You're certain that in one-on-one combat you'd come out on top against any of her would-be peers, but there's a veritable gauntlet ahead of you.

You'll have to find a healer before you do anything else. The life of your master comes first above everything.

>Encounter DC: 1/30/60/90 | Roll: 1d100 = 14

Of course, finding said healer is far, far easier said than done. You encounter several obstacles in your search; first and foremost is the difficulty of locating anyone willing to treat your master to begin with. During your brief trek across the battlefield - and here you marvel at the sheer size of the arena, a set of castle-like ruins whose territory spans a 4-kilometer radius that includes a sizable chunk of the surrounding forest - nearly every person you come across either flees on sight or tries to instigate combat.

>CUN DC: 10 | Roll: [ORDER OVERRIDE] AUTOPASS

Though your spirit calls for you to bring bloody retribution upon the fools, the memory of your master's order stays your blade. With a leaden heart but fleeting step, you turn your back on the enemy, racing to find someone to aid you on your quest.

Unfortunately, your best efforts are met with failure.

In hindsight, the nature of this "test" means the odds of survival for non-combat specialists is painfully low to begin with. That isn't to say they don't exist at all–no, there's a fair few who catch your eye.

The issue is that they're never working alone.

In short order, you find yourself surrounded on three sides; before you stands a plump young man dressed in violet finery hungrily eyes the frail form of your ward. An elaborate kris slips out of his sleeves and into his waiting grip, sparkling with teal bolts of lightning.

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>END DC: 15/20/30 | Roll: 5d6+14(Armor Bonus) = 34

You immediately dismiss him as a threat. His appearance is round of body and weak of limb. While the richly dyed clothing and enchanted weapon defines him as coming from a well-off family, his overall demeanor is pathetic, and the fact that he's approaching someone as well-armored as you is either a sign of a hidden great danger, or a mark of his tactical shortsightedness. You presume the latter.

No, your primary concern is the set of red-haired twins at your flanks. The women have the good sense to keep their distance, and while your magical abilities are somewhat lacking, you know enough to be wary of them as potentially dangerous spellcasters.

>CUN DC: 5/10/15 | Roll: 1d6 = 5

You also note the collars around their necks.

Slaves, then.

—

>(Initiate Combat) You don't like the look on the man's face. Cut them down before they can react and loot them for all they're worth. No matter how stupid-looking they might be, someone that wealthy would never travel without medicine in stock.

>(Open Negotiations) You're on the backfoot here, what with the fact that one of your hands is occupied with your master. Try and talk your way out of a fight.
>>Intimidate them into submission. [STR]
>>You hate the thought of it, but it might be worth trying to cut a mercenary deal. A 5-man party to clear the test. [END]

>Write-in?

Naturally, the END Check to convince them will be relatively high (harder than intimidating them anyways), and it's up to you to determine whether or not you trust this party to last the whole way. In comparison,
intimidating them will almost certainly result in a tragic ending for someone, but you might be able to finagle it into a fairly satisfying result with some luck and planning.

Leaping straight into combat will give you a temporary edge for drawing first blood, but it comes with its own obvious drawbacks.

>>5461432
>>Intimidate them into submission. [STR]

>>5461438
Tragic end huh?
>(Open Negotiations) You're on the backfoot here, what with the fact that one of your hands is occupied with your master. Try and talk your way out of a fight.

>>5461440
>>5461442
Forgot to mention I was changing my vote

>>5461443
Intimidating them is a sub-vote of the "open negotiations" option. Speak softly and carry a big stick, and all that. You can also edit alternative write-ins if you want to take things in a different direction.

>>5461447
Well, I wanted to want to see if these slaves care for him, or if we could just kill him and would let us be, or even get them to turn on him. You never know if he himself is a good person and his family is the ones that enslaved them, if there's a deadman switch, or they would get executed if he dies, so they would fight to the death.
Problem is that we have such a shit cunning that I don't know if it would be possible.

>>5461454
I support this. Try to see how feasible it is to kill him and free the slaves based taste in your artwork QM, try to intimidate him in the process.

I like subverting expectations and keeping people on their toes. I'm also a fan of slightly-unreliable narrators. Sometimes the MC's assumptions will be correct, sometimes not. The raw information to make the "correct" choice will almost always be there--setting aside whenever you beat a DC (you can always trust the primary info those give you), I'll try to leave you guys enough information to reach the truth. It's up to you to put it all together.

Here's a hint to set you down the right path. Assuming Eden Academy is indeed nuts enough to risk the lives of would-be students with a test like this, do you think they're the kind of institution that cares about things like social standing?

>>5461486
Wait, we does that mean we can off the slaver, and help the slaves get admitted?
If we can find out their relationship is working and if he has some sort of deadman switch, we can offer to take the two into the team. Master could use a few living friends

>>5461486
ah, so it's a sign of a hidden great danger, not a mark of his tactical shortsightedness, even if our dude presumed the latter, and that's because the academy wouldn't have cared that he is a noble, only for how competent he is.. Well, I'm not changing my vote.

>>5461432
>(Open Negotiations) You're on the backfoot here, what with the fact that one of your hands is occupied with your master. Try and talk your way out of a fight.

>>5461432
>(Open Negotiations) You're on the backfoot here, what with the fact that one of your hands is occupied with your master. Try and talk your way out of a fight.

>>5461432
>(Open Negotiations) You're on the backfoot here, what with the fact that one of your hands is occupied with your master. Try and talk your way out of a fight.

A reminder that Open Negotiations isn't a complete vote. You need to include a preferred method of negotiating as well (intimidation, teaming up properly, or writing in something else). Apologies if that wasn't clear.

>>5461703
>You hate the thought of it, but it might be worth trying to cut a mercenary deal. A 5-man party to clear the test. [END]

depending on the circumstances they might try to backstab us at the end, but by that moment a 2v3 is more favorable than a 1v3

>>5461432
>(Open Negotiations) You're on the backfoot here, what with the fact that one of your hands is occupied with your master. Try and talk your way out of a fight.

>>5461769
>>You hate the thought of it, but it might be worth trying to cut a mercenary deal. A 5-man party to clear the test. [END]
Whoops forgot the sub-option

>>5461486
>Approach while voicing intent for negotiations, then if possible use the reach of our sword for a surprise swipe to tear his throat open if not kill him

Possibly market ourself as a merc, show off a few flourishes during negotiations then surprise swipe

We're on the back foot right now and we need to fight like it.

>>5461703
Ah shoot, this is what I get for voting right before I go to sleep
>You hate the thought of it, but it might be worth trying to cut a mercenary deal. A 5-man party to clear the test. [END]
Unfortunately we’re not smart enough to be risking sneak attacks

Rolled 2, 6, 6, 5, 2 + 14 = 35 (5d6 + 14)

Aight, votes locked. Here we go.
END DC: 30/45

>(Open Negotiations) You're on the backfoot here, what with the fact that one of your hands is occupied with your master. Try and talk your way out of a fight.
>>You hate the thought of it, but it might be worth trying to cut a mercenary deal. A 5-man party to clear the test. [END]

The weight of your master lingers in the back of your mind and the crook of your arm.

Though you're sure you'd be able to beat the trio before you one way or another, the chance of your master receiving further injury as a result is too great for you to accept.

As the portly man approaches, knife in hand, your developing mind races. Twenty paces, fifteen, ten–

Nothing for it. It galls you to do this, but all is done for the sake of the Hassan.

"I come to you with an accord."

There's a harsh, grating tone to your speech, faltering as you struggle to project your words through stiff, bloodless lungs. To your pleasant surprise, what at first appeared to be a shortcoming of your birth is now used to your advantage–the gravelly rasp of your voice sees the man pause his steps, caught off guard. Behind him, the women tense in preparation for conflict.

Hopefully, it won't come to that.

The noble takes his gaze off of your master, eyeing you with naked interest. "Oho? An accord, he says! Amelia, Fecilia–what do you think? Is he handsome enough for your tastes?"

He turns to look at his followers, exposing the back of his neck. One of the twins barks out a warning, her eyes widening in alarm. "Sir! Stay on your–guard…?"

Her voice trails off as you take a knee.

"As I said. I have not come here to fight, but to propose the possibility of an alliance."

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The words taste like ash in your mouth. An admission to your weakness.

As if to speak on your level, the noble drops into a crouch, resting his arms on his pudgy thighs.

"Interesting! Very interesting. I can see the girl is injured–I presume you want us to heal her somehow? Well, you're in luck."

From the folds of his robes, he withdraws a finger-sized crystal vial with a ruby-red liquid swirling within. Flecks of gold sparkle in the light.

"A single drop from this little beauty would be enough to fix her up and then some. Very, very expensive, but to the House of Furor, there's no price too high for one of their sons."

It takes everything you have to not snatch it out of his grip.

"So–we can help you. But how can you help us?"

>CUN DC: 10/15/20 | Roll: AUTOFAIL

Your words fail you. Really, you never even thought you'd get this far. What can you offer this group? A freshly-raised undead, unable to even protect his master–and on top of that, someone in direct competition with them for the 50 slots.

There's still time for you to fix this. For a moment, you consider simply slaughtering him now and taking the medicine as your rightful spoils. His grip on the kris is loose and easygoing; separating his head from shoulders would take mere seconds. From there, it would be simple to use his corpse as a temporary shield against whatever spells the slaves fling your way in retaliation.

But that would risk damaging the medicine. How can you protect…?

>END DC: 30/45 | Roll: 5d6 + 14 = 35

Ah. That's right.

The only thing you're good for is–

"I offer you my flesh."

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You grab the hand holding his knife and thrust the blade into your throat, ignoring the shouts from his slaves. He jerks out of your grip, but you make no move to stop him. Instead, you do your best to speak around the dagger poking through your neck.

>+1 Minor Wound

"As you can see, I have little to fear from death. I bear the strength of a true warrior; for the duration of this test, you have my blade and the use of my body as a shield." You grimace; though you feel no true pain, the sensation of steel scraping against your spine sets you on edge.

"All I ask is that you heal my master and keep her safe."

Point made, you yank the dagger out of your throat and offer it back to him hilt-first. After a brief pause, the noble boy laughs, accepting the blade with a smile, wiping away the black blood that stains its surface.

"I must say, I didn't expect you to be undead. Certainly didn't act like one!"

His eyes flicker to the gaping slit in your neck, oozing droplets of thick, black blood, then amends his statement. "At least, not until you went and did that. Either way, you present a most compelling case. Let me think…" he murmurs, raising a hand to his chin.

You stare at him with lifeless eyes devoid of emotion. "Do you accept?"

The noble rolls his eyes. "Very well, very well." Rather than reach for the potion from earlier, though, he claps his hands and turns back to his slaves, who stare at you with no small amount of horror and disgust.

"Amelia! Be a dear and pass me the Medicament, would you? And Felicia, I'll need some Vitae. Poor girl looks like she's lost some blood."

The women snap to attention, then share identical looks of concern. "Y-yes, sir. Are you certain of this…?"

He shrugs. "I am. Come now, nothing to be afraid of. I gave him plenty of openings, as you know."

Hm. So that was on purpose. Perhaps this man isn't the idiot you thought he was…

No, that was still an absurdly risky move on his part. You're not sure what to make of him, really.

>+1 CUN for successfully talking your way out of a fight.

Somewhat reluctantly, the women pass along the requested medicine. He motions for you to lay your master down, then shoots you an amused look at the protective way you hover around her.

"Relax. She'll wake up within a minute or two. Your master is a bit cut up, if you couldn't tell–I'll need some space to focus."

You bite down on the instinctual refusal that threatens to escape you; truthfully, there's little you can do to help, but leaving your master here...

He lets out an exaggerated sigh at your extended silence. "Fine, fine. Stay if you really want, just don't get it my way."

—

>"...Thank you." (Continue speaking with the noble.)

>"...I do not wish to be a burden." At least, not to your master. (Opens up interactions with the twins.)

>>5462643
>"...I do not wish to be a burden." At least, not to your master. (Opens up interactions with the twins.)

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>"I come to you with an accord."

>>5462643
>"...I do not wish to be a burden." At least, not to your master. (Opens up interactions with the twins.)
I do not wish to interact with the pompous prick. Speak with the twins. Why do they wear the collars? If we pull it off, will they die? We are a big guy after all, for them.

>>5462643
>"...I do not wish to be a burden." At least, not to your master. (Opens up interactions with the twins.)

>>5462643
>"...I do not wish to be a burden." At least, not to your master. (Opens up interactions with the twins.)
That was fucking metal dude

>>5462643
>"...I do not wish to be a burden." At least, not to your master. (Opens up interactions with the twins.)

>>5462643
>"...Thank you." (Continue speaking with the noble.)
It'll be a cold day in hell when I leave my master unattended with a slaver.

>>5462643
>"...Thank you." (Continue speaking with the noble.)

>>5462643
>"...Thank you." (Continue speaking with the noble.)
I want to speak to the twins, but I'm not leaving that guy alone with Master.

>>5462645
Anons made a good point about leaving this guy alone.
Changing to
>"...Thank you." (Continue speaking with the noble.)

>>5462643
>"...I do not wish to be a burden." At least, not to your master.

Closing and writing. Sorry for the delay, had to deal with some kind of gas leak with the heating system at my place.
---
Tally:
Talk to the Noble: 4
Talk to the Twins: 6 (5? Seems like one of you decided to switch to the Noble but I don't see any repeating IDs)

>>5463389
My ID changed QM because I'm phonepost while on vacation.

>>5463389
>>5463263 backlinked to his comment

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>>5463393
Here's proof

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>>5463389
And more proof too, it doesn't matter too much because twins still wins.

Gotcha. Either way, talking to the twins wins, but don't worry too much. Trap votes aren't any fun. This is just a low-stakes "who do you want to talk to" vote.

>>5463403
Oh good, thanks QM

>>5463403
Oh good, I definitely wanted to speak to the girls more than that guy.

Though I hope that not every option will always be beneficial, it gets boring if there's never any wrong option and players often grow more reckless once they realize it.

btw, since we got a point in cunning, can we spend the one we had banked and get one more cunning die?

>>5463422
Yes, you can put it into CUN and get another die if you'd like. And I don't know if I'd really call this option "beneficial." You can still shove your foot in your mouth and I did try to point out the fact that they're probably not super keen on talking to you based on their reactions of "horror and disgust," but it's not like this was a "you fucked up and should never have picked this haha" kind of choice, either.

Rolled 1, 5 = 6 (2d6)

CUN DC: 3
I imagine you guys are in favor of putting your leftover stat point into CUN so I'll preemptively roll as if you've got a CUN of 4, but if I'm wrong, feel free to clarify and consider this a freebie for my oversight.

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>>5463460
I will graciously accept this extra die for our cunning roll.

>>5463460
We got it extra, so why not?

>>5463460
I was already in favor of 1 in CUN before it was stashed so yeah go ahead

>>5463460
Sounds good to me

>"...I do not wish to be a burden." At least, not to your master. (Opens up interactions with the twins.)

The nobleman chuckles at your subdued response. "Alright, then. Seeing as you'll be working with us for the time being, how about you get started on guard duty with the girls? Though, I doubt an undead like you will be able to appreciate the company of such fine women."

He laughs at his own joke, though you fail to see the humor in it. Either way, there’s no point in wasting time; nodding jerkily, you rise to your feet and slowly pull away. The prospect of leaving your master to the whims of this temporary ally feels like a grave mistake, but you have to admit to yourself that even if he were to try anything underhanded, your lack of familiarity with the healing arts means you wouldn’t be able to tell until it was too late.

You’ll just have to rely on good faith.

…As if. You’ll be keeping an eye trained on him at all times. Even if the worst should come to pass, you’ll make sure his dying breaths are filled with regret.

As you make your way across the open field, picking your way through trenches of churned earth and wayward chunks of fallen brickwork, you note the wary glances that your redheaded companions throw your way. The two of them quickly enter into whispered conversation with one another.

>CUN DC: 3 | Roll: 2d6 = 6

It doesn’t take a genius for you to know that they’re reluctant to have you join their little group. The logic of it escapes you for a moment–as an undead warrior, you fulfill a critical defensive role that their party sorely lacks. From a practical perspective, this alliance has vastly improved their odds of survival, so long as they don’t betray you.

Then, as you absently wipe away the mud-like sludge oozing from the hole in your neck, you recall a piece of information tucked away in the corner of your mind, courtesy of the data packets written into the arcane formulae that frame your consciousness.

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In the words of the Hassan, the undead are generally seen as “rather off-putting.” Necromancers are rare and poorly understood by the populace. The valuable few who escape persecution and see employment in the military are used as strategic weapons, men and women capable of commanding endless armies of shambling, mindless corpses, replenishing their forces with the bodies of their enemies.

These methods of mass production exist in stark contrast to the artistic design philosophy which the Hassan espouse. Your creators have a long and storied history of “quality over quantity,” limiting themselves to as little as one lifelong undead servant to whom they grant sapience in a complex ritual that binds a portion of the caster’s soul into the chosen vessel. These - your true kin - are often made from people that caster cherished most dearly in life; lovers, friends, and… even siblings at times.

You nearly stagger beneath the weight of this sudden realization, bracing yourself against the rough stone of a nearby wall. The fractured marble crumbles away at your touch, leaving you empty-handed and somehow lightheaded as you raise a shaking hand to your bloodless face.

Your destruction would cripple your master’s growth.

As you come to terms with the new level of self-worth you suddenly find yourself held accountable to, two familiar voices approach your position.

“...Feeling alright there?”

“Ames, I doubt it has feelings.”

The women stop a few steps away from you. One of them, her hair styled in messier curls than the straight locks of her twin, folds her arms, adopting a look of mild consternation before turning away from you. Her sister extends a pale hand–it takes you a moment to realize she’s offering to help you up. After a brief pause, you accept, though it’s mostly for show than anything else. You doubt someone as seemingly frail as her could support much of your weight.

Once you’ve collected yourself, she withdraws her hand and speaks. “I don’t believe we’ve introduced ourselves. My name is Felicia…”
She trails off, glancing at her sister as if waiting for her to continue, then coughs lightly when she’s greeted by silence. “...And this is Amelia. We’re servants of the young master.”

According to your stored information, courtesy dictates that you should respond with your own name. Unfortunately–

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“I have yet to receive the privilege of a name,” you mutter. “This body belongs to my lady, of the honorable House of Hassan.”

A frown flickers across Felicia’s face. “The Hassan? But… No, nevermind.” She shakes her head, then fixes on a polite smile. “May I know your lady’s name?”

You open your mouth, prepared to sing her praises–then it strikes you. Your master never told you her name.

A brief panic falls over you, shock and shame flooding your dulled senses, before something slots into place.

”Keep —— safe, boy. Starting today, she’s the one that’ll take up the name.”

”I understand, mother.”

”...Good kid. Be there for her.”

Fragments of memories.

—

>”Alice.” (+25 to Recollection Rolls.)

>Write-in? (+3 Stats to Distribute.)

>>5463598
>”Alice.” (+25 to Recollection Rolls.)
Necromancy is not ressurection.
But Master is the last Hassan. Her work is more than necromancy.

>>5463598
>”Alice.” (+25 to Recollection Rolls.)

a nice name

>>5463596
>>5463598
>mixed up their names
Even in my own writing, I can't get twins straight, blargh. The one who helped you up is Amelia, the other one is Felicia.

>>5463598
>>”Alice.” (+25 to Recollection Rolls.)

>>5463598
>”Alice.” (+25 to Recollection Rolls.)
We are not him, but fragments remain. Part of him lives on, in us.

>>5463598
>>Write-in? (+3 Stats to Distribute.)
Sasha

>>5463596
>”Alice.” (+25 to Recollection Rolls.)

>>5463598
>”Alice.” (+25 to Recollection Rolls.)

Votes locked! Alice by a landslide.

We learn from the past so that we may build a better future.

I LIVE
Passed the fuck out as soon as I got home, apologies for the delay. Writing now.

Rolled 4, 3 = 7 (2d6)

CUN DC: 10

Rolled 5, 1 + 7 = 13 (2d6 + 7)

AGI DC: 15/20/30
Vanguard March triggered.

Rolled 3, 1, 4, 1, 3 + 14 = 26 (5d6 + 14)

Yeowch, that's a painful roll.
END DC: 25/35/40

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Our die spread ain't looking too healthy right now. Did our master get murdered because we failed that cunning and agility roll?

>>5465321
More likely one of the others

>>5465321
I don't think murdered with just one bad roll, but hurt is very likely.

>”Alice.” (+25 to Recollection Rolls.)

Your back straightens as you speak your master's name, a sense of completion and rightness filling your form.

Amelia dips her head in acknowledgement. "A fine name."

Next to her, Felicia crosses her arms. "It's all well and good that the two of you are getting along, but we need to take point. There's no telling how long we'll have to wait here."

"My apologies," you murmur. "Let us work together. May our alliance prove fruitful."

The curly-haired redhead doesn't meet your eyes, instead moving to tug her sister away. "Yeah. You can go check out the southern perimeter, we'll cover the north and east." Dragged in her sister's wake, Amelia offers an apologetic wave before turning away.

>CUN DC: 10 | Roll: 2d6 = 7

You resist the urge to frown. Sighing does not come naturally to you, but you feel the urge to do so now.

Objectively, her apparent dislike for you makes sense. To the living, the idea of a reanimated corpse would seem distasteful, no matter how intelligent or individual you might be. Amelia's attempt at an olive branch marks her out as an exception to the rule; you'll likely have to get used to people feeling some degree of aversion towards you… not that you personally care. No, your primary concerns are for the image it might cast upon your master.

Then again, it's not as if you resemble the common image of an undead. The Hassanic craft should keep your flesh in near-perfect stasis; rot and cadaverous stench will be alien to you. Yes, you should be able to keep things under wraps if need be.

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Approaching your designated stakeout point means passing next to the nobleman and your master. He looks up at you as you approach.

"'Lo, Sir Undead. Your master's a strong one; won't be much longer until she wakes up."

As he speaks, he idly wipes his hands on a strong-smelling cloth, staining the rough, off-white fabric with streaks of red before balling it up and tossing it over his shoulder. You study his work, noting several stitches closing up the deep cuts in your master's legs and a rudimentary splint for her arm.

Though his loose attitude is distasteful, the rush of relief that floods your stagnant veins overwrites any reservations you possess. "My thanks, Lord Furor."

The nobleman lets out a tsk. "Nicholas. Call me Nicholas. The Lord Furor is my brother–I'm just a fourth son, nothing so grand. S'why I'm out here to begin with, you know. Not like they'd care if I died trying to get into Eden."

You tilt your head. "What of the potion from earlier?"

Nicholas lets out a chuckle, patting his robes and pulling out the little vial. "This? Just a bluff. Tomato juice with some gold flakes. Would've been hilarious if you tried to nick it and run off."

He takes a sip in demonstration, then smacks his lips appreciatively and puts it away. "Great stuff. Now, you're here to keep watch, yeah? I'll leave you to it. Do tell me when your master wakes up, we'll get moving around then. I still need a few more points."

With that, the nobleman hikes up his robes and waddles off, leaving you feeling mildly disoriented. Just what kind of people have you thrown yourself in with…? No, there are more pressing matters.

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You kneel, gently brushing some stray hair away from your master's face. She shivers lightly, but relaxes once you lift her into your arms.

Hm. It might be wise to invest in some sort of carrying case for future situations like this. Though, with your particular skills, your master being so close to you might expose her to harm–an unacceptable prospect.

Well, you'll just have to become strong enough that there's no safer place for her than by your side.

It doesn't take long for you to find a good place for her to rest. You spot a snug gap between the roots of an ancient oak, the knotted wood forming a nest for your master.

Drawing your blade, you turn, prepared to stand guard. The sounds of the forest fill your ears; birds chirping, leaves rustling in the wind–

"...Brother?"

–and so does the whispered voice of your master, as well as the keening whistle of an arrow.

You fling your arm out to the side, ready to knock the incoming projectile out of the air…

>AGI DC: 15/20/30 | Roll: 2d6 +7(Vanguard March) = 13

…but too late, you realize your blade won't reach in time. That leaves you with only one other option.

Time to be a meat shield.

>END DC: 25/35/40 | Roll: 5d6 + 14(Armor Bonus)

You throw yourself across your master in a sudden, violent motion that sees her snap awake, a panicked clarity coming to her eyes.

The bolt sinks into your chest with a wet thud, forcing your arms to buckle.

>+2 Minor Wounds.
>3/2 Minor Wounds } 1/2 Minor Wounds.
>+1 Major Wound. -3 to all STR/DEX Rolls.
>1/4 Major Wounds.

Distantly, you hear a whispered curse and snapping twigs, carried to you on the breeze–but such thoughts are forced from your mind as your master wraps her unbroken arm around your neck.

"Restoration of Former Glory."

>-1 Major Wound (Temporary: 3 Battles)
>Injury debuff removed.

An invisible cold recedes from the world as your still heart beats once, twice–

A tired gasp escapes your master as her warmth seeps into your wounds. You make to stand and pull her close, eyes darting around to spot your assailant.

Almost as an afterthought, you rip the bolt out of your chest, briefly scanning it for details.

Poor fletching, and a thick shaft; not from an archer's bow, then. With the density of these trees, whoever shot this at you is almost certainly still within the area.

—

>You'll rip them apart with your own two hands. Hunt them down, now. There's no telling what might happen if you let them escape and prepare for a second round... And didn't Nicholas say something about points?

>Retreat and rearm. You've probably have some time. Acquaint your master with Nicholas and the others and inform them of the attack.

>Write-in?

>>5465367
>>You'll rip them apart with your own two hands. Hunt them down, now. There's no telling what might happen if you let them escape and prepare for a second round... And didn't Nicholas say something about points?

They struck at our Master, they have been deemed a threat and must be executed

but also points

>>5465367
>You'll rip them apart with your own two hands. Hunt them down, now. There's no telling what might happen if you let them escape and prepare for a second round... And didn't Nicholas say something about points?
Kill, kill those whom would harm the Master! Rip and tear!

>>5465367
>Retreat and rearm. You've probably have some time. Acquaint your master with Nicholas and the others and inform them of the attack.

>>5465367
>You'll rip them apart with your own two hands. Hunt them down, now. There's no telling what might happen if you let them escape and prepare for a second round... And didn't Nicholas say something about points?
Does the arrow seem look like it might be coated in anything dangerous? (Aside from bits of us anyways)

>>5465367
>>You'll rip them apart with your own two hands. Hunt them down, now. There's no telling what might happen if you let them escape and prepare for a second round... And didn't Nicholas say something about points?

>>5465367
>You'll rip them apart with your own two hands. Hunt them down, now. There's no telling what might happen if you let them escape and prepare for a second round... And didn't Nicholas say something about points?

>>5465478
Even if it was, unless it was some kind of magic it wouldn't do much to affect you due to your Stagnant Veins perk. Considering you're fighting to enter a magic school, this might be more of a concern than you'd otherwise expect... But I'll tell you flat out that you don't really feel anything from this, and it won't affect you much. Now, if it had hit anyone else is a different question entirely.

>>5465367
>Retreat and rearm. You've probably have some time. Acquaint your master with Nicholas and the others and inform them of the attack.
We can't leave Master's side to go hunting. We are not fast and there may be more than one enemy, waiting for the opportunity to attack her when we're not next to her to take an arrow for her.

Locked! Here we go. Don't have too much time to write today so it'll be a bit of a short update (assuming everything goes as planned). You can look forward to more tomorrow.

Rolled 75 + 40 (1d100 + 40)

Recollection Rate DC: 1/20/50/70/90
Arts of the Hassan: Blood That Binds triggered. Promised Memory triggered.

>>5466610
Is this roll over/under?

>>5466625
I'm pretty sure it's over.

Rolled 4, 2, 3, 6, 6, 6, 4, 1, 2 = 34 (9d6)

CUN DC: 15/20/30
Bloodhound triggered. Perception utilized.

Rolled 3, 1, 3, 1, 1, 5, 5, 4 = 23 (8d6)

Sick. Alright, checks required for this next roll halved. Already applied.
AGI DC: 10/15/20/25
Bloodhound triggered.

>You'll rip them apart with your own two hands. Hunt them down, now.

This is your chance. An opportunity to prove yourself to your Lady Alice.

Blood for blood.

–And yet.

Though every muscle is taut, every sense keen and prepared to respond to even the slightest disturbance, you rein in your emotions and look upon your master.

While she has recovered, a telltale weakness accompanies her every movement; there's no doubt she spent a fair chunk of her reserves while repairing your flesh, to boot.

You have a responsibility to bear. "My lady–can you walk? I apologize for startling you so."

The girl shakes her head before curling tighter into you, raven locks tickling the bottom of your clean-shaven chin. Your cold heart clenches–

"I'll… be okay," she whispers, the words almost as much for her own sake as they are for yours. "As long as I have you. We'll be okay."

"Yes," you breathe. "I am yours to command."

For a moment, she's silent. Then, in a stilted, choked voice, she gives you the permission you've been waiting for.

"D-don't let them escape."

>Recollection Rate DC: 1/20/50/70/90 | Roll: 1d100 + 15(Arts of the Hassan: Blood That Binds) + 25(Promised Memory) = 115

And your withered soul sings.

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>Utility Skill Recalled: Perception.

>Perception (1): Pull back the veil on the mundane world's mysteries. All rolls related to detecting hidden things gain an additional 1d6.

>Passive Technique Recalled: Bloodhound

>Bloodhound (3): For the purposes of tracking down an individual, gain an additional 3d6 to all related rolls. As long as you have a belonging of theirs, double this effect. If you have tasted their blood, multiply the final result by 1.3x.

>Active Technique Recalled: Cleave the Mighty

>Cleave the Mighty (2): Once per combat encounter, multiply your STR by 1.4x and add that to a failed STR, DEX, or END roll.

Giving in to your base instincts is the easiest thing you've ever done.

A savage grin splits your face as you rip through the woods, the expression marred only by the crossbow bolt you clutch between your teeth. Supporting the feather-light weight of your master with your free arm, your greatsword - normally requiring two hands to wield - scythes through the air with the tireless aid of your necromantic strength, chopping down various saplings, shrubbery, and branches that dare to stand in your path. Carpets of vinery are ripped apart and clods of earth are kicked up in your wake as you rush through the forest maze at a breakneck pace, wind flowing through your hair.

Where? Where? Where is your prey?

>CUN DC: 15/20/30 | Roll: 2d6 + 6d6(Bloodhound: Item Boost) + 1d6(Perception) = 34

The woodland stench of loam and animals inflates your lungs. Your nose burns, itching as you breathe deep of your surroundings.

Your head snaps to the right, the stink of someone else's qggravation fading from your senses. Now that you're looking in the right direction, you can see the tracks; whoever your quarry might be, they're far from experienced. It's almost shameful, really, to think that they nearly got the drop on you.

They'll pay.

Your master squirms slightly before popping her head out of the crook of your elbow. She peers around the area before turning a slightly bemused eye upon you.

"Will… will we be able to find our way back?"

You simply point at the trail of destruction you carved through the forest. She blinks, then nods in demure acquiescence.

"Okay. I trust you."

Music to your ears.

With that, you're off again.

>AGI DC: 10/15/20/25 | Roll : 2d6 + 6d6(Bloodhound: Item Boost) = 23

Close. So close. And from the sour sting of fear that you can suddenly taste, your prey knows it too.

You can hear them.

"How the fuck–!? Gah, knew I should've gone for…"

You can feel them. So slow. So slow.

The Hassanic maturity of your consciousness sits subdued in the corner of your mind; your body whoops with joy, for this is what is right.

Gluttony, to satiate the ever-present greed. Envy, to protect an immortals pride. Lust, to fuel a world of bloody wrath.

Your master sits in her rightful place at the top, with you by her side.

—

>Fast and dirty. Dive in, gut them, dive out. No point in being fancy; you just want to feel satiated. This will be your first proper meal since birth...(STR, AGI)

>Mind games. Run circles around them, bleed them dry, and have them know true terror. You have enough of a head start to cut any chance of escape off. (AGI, CUN)

>Write-in?

>>5466823
>Fast and dirty. Dive in, gut them, dive out. No point in being fancy; you just want to feel satiated. This will be your first proper meal since birth...(STR, AGI)

Lets get this over with. Showing Sadism in drint of Alice should not be our priority. And we should link up with the other party members as well to make sure they do not get wiped in return

>>5466823
>Fast and dirty. Dive in, gut them, dive out. No point in being fancy; you just want to feel satiated. This will be your first proper meal since birth...(STR, AGI)

Efficiency

>>5466823
>Fast and dirty. Dive in, gut them, dive out. No point in being fancy; you just want to feel satiated. This will be your first proper meal since birth...(STR, AGI)

We are a cut above other base and inferior undead, not some lunatic ghoul.

Kill them swiftly and don’t let them get time to sound out for any group they can fall back on. The faster we do this the faster we can get back to our group and keep Alice safer.

>>5466823
>Fast and dirty. Dive in, gut them, dive out. No point in being fancy; you just want to feel satiated. This will be your first proper meal since birth...(STR, AGI)

>>5466823
>>Fast and dirty. Dive in, gut them, dive out. No point in being fancy; you just want to feel satiated. This will be your first proper meal since birth...(STR, AGI)

>>5466823
>Fast and dirty. Dive in, gut them, dive out. No point in being fancy; you just want to feel satiated. This will be your first proper meal since birth...(STR, AGI)
Gotta play it to our strengths here, punchmeat monster away!

>>5466823
>Fast and dirty. Dive in, gut them, dive out. No point in being fancy; you just want to feel satiated. This will be your first proper meal since birth...(STR, AGI)
Just let the blood carnival begin

>>5466823
>Fast and dirty. Dive in, gut them, dive out. No point in being fancy; you just want to feel satiated. This will be your first proper meal since birth...(STR, AGI)

Whew, sorry for the delay. Writing soon, give me a bit.

Rolled 5, 2 = 7 (2d6)

AGI DC: 10/15/25

Rolled 4, 6, 2 = 12 (3d6)

CUN DC: 10
Perception utilized.

Rolled 6, 6, 5, 3 + 10 = 30 (4d6 + 10)

STR DC: 7/15/25/30
Weapon attack bonus applied.

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91 KB JPG

>Fast and dirty. Dive in, gut them, dive out. No point in being fancy; you just want to feel satiated. This will be your first proper meal since birth...(STR, AGI)

The thought of your master is a bucket of cold water, washing away the sudden bloodthirst as quickly as it came on.

Duty.

You cling to that word like a lifeline, pulling yourself back together. Piece by piece, as you rush through the woods, a thread of crystal-clear thought works through your mind.

You're no base undead, anima driven by a never-ending hunger. You're better than this.

You are more, and you will show it. Indulging yourself while on the job - in front of your master, no less - is a shameful prospect.

The edge of madness slips away from you, no longer empowering your movements–but you never needed that kind of strength to begin with.

A part of you notes how the ground begins to slope beneath your feet. Rather than slow down and attempt to steady your footsteps, you push onwards, leaping further and farther with each stride. Momentum grants you a certain surety, allowing you to close the gap between you and your quarry even with everything weighing you down.

Before long, the trees begin to thin, the sound of rushing water reaching your ears. Briefly, your mind fights with the idea of carrying your master into battle; logically, it's not a viable plan of action. At the same time, you loathe the idea of letting her out of your sight.

Ultimately, though, the decision isn't yours to make.

Energy bleeds off your form as you stop to speak. You get as far as "My lady–" before she interrupts.

"I understand. Here will be fine," she whispers, gently tapping your shoulder to signal that you should let go. "I'll stay out of trouble. Do what you must."

Even as her warmth leaves your body, the memory of her touch stays, pulling you along like a drug.

Tearing yourself away is almost physically painful. "I will return," you mutter. For a moment, you linger, waiting for a response.

"Be safe."

You have your orders. With that, you fling yourself into the battle ahead, marching into the banks of a fast-flowing river.

>AGI DC: 10/15/25 | Roll: 2d6 = 7

Your first step out of the trees sees a bolt go through your left thigh.

>+1 Minor Wounds.
>2/2 Minor Wounds } 0/2 Minor Wounds.
>+1 Major Wound. -3 to all AGI/DEX Rolls.
>1/4 Major Wounds.

Though you feel no pain, the sensation of the shot punching through the mail and piercing your flesh is distracting all the same. You briefly stumble, but manage to avoid hitting the stone-studded dirt; the bolt came from the side, avoiding the more heavily-shielded front and narrowly missing the bone.

"Hah!"

A snarl tears free from your throat as you turn towards the direction the voice and the bolt came from. You snap the wooden shaft with your free hand, ignoring the way the remnant chafes against your muscles. It'll be a hindrance, but it's all you have the time for.

At the very least, one point in your favor is the fact that your opponent seems limited to fighting at range; with the river blocking off any immediate attempts at escape, they're effectively pinned and forced to fight.

>CUN DC: 10 | Roll: 2d6 + 1d6(Perception) = 12

A flicker of movement catches your attention, and you manage to spot the edge of a brown-green cloak as your assailant moves for another shot. Jerking to the side, you narrowly avoid taking the next shot in the head. Behind you, the wasted bolt splashes harmlessly into the water, drawing a panicked swear from the would-be assassin.

Aha. Now, while they're busy reloading.

>STR DC: 7/15/25/30 | Roll: 4d6 + 10(Weapon Bonus) = 30

Your immortal flesh allows you to put on a burst of speed that a similarly-injured being would be utterly unable to muster, the result of straining your tempered flesh in defiance of exhaustion or injury. Naturally, such movement is far from quiet–the sound of your approach causes your prey to look up in panic, granting you a brief opportunity to examine their appearance as the distance between the two of you rapidly disappears.

"Shit, shit, shit–!"

A blonde girl stares at you from beneath a mottled hood, her sun-tanned skin and wiry frame lending her a youthful vigor–strong enough to work a crossbow, but too thin to make use of a real archer's weapon.

Her crass speech aside, she's hardly more than two or three years your master's senior. A child, practically.

All you feel is the weight of your blade.

The grey metal of its length flashes, catching the sunlight as it arcs through the air. Once, twice; with your first strike, the boiled leather armor hidden beneath the fabric of her cloak is rendered worthless, practically ripped from its straps with the force of your blow. The second strike tears across her arms, thrown up as a shield in an instinctive reaction against injury. Her crossbow lays in the dirt, cast aside and forgotten.

She cries out, a choked, wet gasp. "Yield! I yield! Get me out of–!"

In response to her scream, motes of pure white light begin to gather around the girl, spawning from thin air. Startled by their sudden appearance, you stare in shock as they dive in to swarm her, nearly obscuring the scarlet of her wounds before spreading to swallow up her body.

—

>Let none who would harm your master escape your blade. Act quickly; finish the job and take her head. (Medium AGI Roll, increased EXP gain, more loot?)

>...Stay your blade. The threat is eliminated. You shouldn't leave your master waiting. (Alice trusts you a little bit more. Memory fragmentation reduced.)

[Either way, you've earned your Point. Two to go.]

>>5468030
>...Stay your blade. The threat is eliminated. You shouldn't leave your master waiting. (Alice trusts you a little bit more. Memory fragmentation reduced.)
Job's done.

>>5468030
>...Stay your blade. The threat is eliminated. You shouldn't leave your master waiting. (Alice trusts you a little bit more. Memory fragmentation reduced.)

>>5468030
>Let none who would harm your master escape your blade. Act quickly; finish the job and take her head. (Medium AGI Roll, increased EXP gain, more loot?)

>>5468030
>...Stay your blade. The threat is eliminated. You shouldn't leave your master waiting. (Alice trusts you a little bit more. Memory fragmentation reduced.)
We will remember everything

>>5468130
Well, remembering EVERYTHING isn't going to be on the table, but... more often than not, I'm willing to let you guys try interesting things. Yes, you can certainly try.

>>5468242
We will just have to crawl off the table and climb the shelf then.
We must do it for master imouto.

>>5468252
Well, philosophically speaking I consider the MC to be a separate person from your master's brother. There's a reason the MC hasn't thought of her as anything even approaching a sister so far. To draw parallels to the Ship of Theseus, you're like a brand-new boat made using a couple of donated parts from the original ship. Some of them might be pretty important parts - like the keel, or the mast, or what have you, and you can certainly fish up more parts to use as upgrades - but at the end of the day, you're your own individual.
Hassanic undead can play a very convincing imitation for their creators if they need to, though, and the nature of their birth means they often do. It's up to you if you want to follow in his footsteps or put a twist on things and make a new path.

>>5468273
If we recover most of his memories and have the same role and same drive to protect her, then we are indistinguishable from her brother if he had suffered a head injury and partial amnesia.

>>5468276
Uh. I don't want to spoil anything, but you have a very... interesting, guess for what the brother's normal behavior would have been like.
I feel it's safe to say this much: did he love her? Yes. Did he care for her? Absolutely, to the best of his ability. Would he die for her? He would and he did hell, that was his role, which is why you're currently an undead. But comparing his feelings towards Alice with yours is like... You NEED her. She isn't just your world, she's your solar system and the surrounding galaxy. Yes, her brother was dedicated and loyal to her as a guardian and protector, but the current relationship you have with her is on an entirely different level. Part of this has to do with the fact that she's functionally your god.

Does that make sense?

>>5468030
>...Stay your blade. The threat is eliminated. You shouldn't leave your master waiting. (Alice trusts you a little bit more. Memory fragmentation reduced.)

>>5468318
>Does that make sense?
I don't think we're going to see eye to eye on this. To carry on your earlier Ship of Theseus analogy, if you make a brand new boat by using almost all of the original ship's parts, with just a coupe differences, is it really fair to call it a completely different and unrelated boat? If it's 10% old and 90% new, then yeah, it's a different boat. If it's 10% new and 90% old, then isn't it just the old boat, disassembled and reassembled with a couple changes? It's not so clear at what percentage that flips, but it's clearer on the edges.

Whether the MC considers himself Alice's brother or a new entity inhabiting big brother's body is probably something that should be voted on down the line, once enough memories are recovered.

>>5468273
>Hassanic undead can play a very convincing imitation for their creators if they need to, though, and the nature of their birth means they often do
This seems like a very unhealthy way to cope with grief but it's also kind of fitting for a family of eccentric necromancers.

>>5468460
The MC already recognises that he isn't her brother.

>>5468460
>rates
The thing is, outside of what you're immediately born with, getting these memories isn't really "replacing" so much as it is "adding on to." In that regard, you are a separate consciousness attempting to emulate someone else (not enough memories to be 100% accurate yet). I've already mentioned that your birth is made possible by the Hassan splicing off a part of their soul, so I'm in the clear spoiler-wise when I say that what the Hassan do is very, very roughly equivalent to creating an evolving AI and then powering it with a vat-grown chunk of their own brain cells. On a metaphysical handwavium level, you have more in common with Alice than you do her brother. This is why you were born with the Soul Stat at all, as opposed to just being an elaborate input-output puppet.
You are your own person, though, or at least you can become as much. Ultimately, what you want to do with your lease on life is up to you (and Alice, but I'm not gonna use her to railroad you).
>voted on down the line
Plausible. You'll probably have to wait an arc or three before you can plausibly collect enough memories to come to that kind of resolution, but I don't mind leaving it up to vote when the time comes.

>>5468514
>very unhealthy way to cope
Absolutely 100% correct. Realistically, the relationship could never be the same; the power disparity is just too significant. Functionally, the Hassan... they're... happy enough with the act.
Spending all that time with dead bodies and trying to play God does *things* to your mental state, as you can imagine.

>>5468030
>...Stay your blade. The threat is eliminated. You shouldn't leave your master waiting. (Alice trusts you a little bit more. Memory fragmentation reduced.)

>>5468030
>...Stay your blade. The threat is eliminated. You shouldn't leave your master waiting. (Alice trusts you a little bit more. Memory fragmentation reduced.)

The quest has been great so far, the writing really grabbed me from the first post. Keep up the good work QM.

3 hours of sleep does not for good writing make. bleargh. Gonna turn in for tonight and update tomorrow.
>>5469024
Welcome aboard! Thanks for the compliment, stuff like that always puts some pep in my step. Hopefully, the QM curse doesn't get in my way--I want to see this thread to completion.

Alright, here we go. Writing.

Rolled 6, 4 = 10 (2d6)

CUN DC: 3

Rolled 52 + 40 (1d100 + 40)

Recollection Rate DC: 90
Arts of the Hassan: Blood That Binds triggered. Promised Memory triggered.

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>...Stay your blade. The threat is eliminated. You shouldn't leave your master waiting.

You raise your sword high, staring down impassively at the fading form of the child before you. Her breath catches, an inborn fear of death forcing her to blink on reflex.

On instinct, you suck in a needless breath, letting out a grunt of effort as you swing your blade to the side. Blood wicks off its metal, sliding through the channels and into the dirt.

There's nothing more that needs to be done.

By the time you sheathe your sword, the girl has already disappeared, leaving behind nothing more than her crossbow and half a dozen hand-crafted bolts, some of them speckled with red. Moving swiftly, you gather your spoils up from the ground; though the shots themselves are of questionable make, the crossbow itself seems to be of reasonably good quality–surprisingly so, actually.

>100 EXP gained. No level multiplier.
>+6 Iron Crossbow Bolts (Poor). -2 to all attack rolls made using this ammunition.
>+1 Quality Crossbow. +7 to all attack rolls. Medium-long ranged attacks possible. Requires little training to use effectively.

At the very least, it's something for your master to use or sell as she sees fit; you'll keep them strapped to your belt until you find an opportunity to hand them over.

The faint sound of leaves crunching underfoot catches your attention. Snapping your head up, you stare in the direction it came from, ears pricked and eyes peeled for a potential interloper–only to see your master slowly picking her way through the trees, wobbling slightly as she walks downslope.

With the considerable length of your stride, you quickly reach her side, steadying your master before she can fall.

She glances up at you, a shadow of a smile on her face.

"You won, then."

>CUN DC: 3 | Roll: 2d6 = 10

There's a relieved assurance in her words. A spark of regret flashes through you at that; clearly, you'll have to become more reliable in the future. Making your master worry is unbecoming.

Rather than voice any of your concerns, you simply nod.

"I promised that I would return."

It's all that needs to be said. A hidden tension bleeds out of her at that; with a quiet sigh, she reaches out to you, arms outstretched. Obediently, you pick her up, allowing her to settle in your grip.

Your gaze darts over to her sleeves; the red threads sewn continue to count down, though in far smaller amounts and with longer intervals besides. What really catches your attention, though, is the change in "Points" sewn in black next to it. Instead of the 1 you last saw, a stout little 2 sits in its place.

Following your sight, your master nods. "It seems the credit for your accomplishments goes to me."

Immediately, you shake your head. "I am your sword, Lady Alice. Any such achievements earned by these hands are only made possible through your greatness; as such, they are yours by right. It is the natural way of things."

She pouts slightly at your words. Were she a few years older, you might have called it a frown. "Don't say that. You're quite incredible yourself, br–"

Your master shuts her mouth with a click, looking away. Once it becomes clear she's no longer willing to continue the conversation, you let it go without comment.

Thankfully, the trek back towards the ruins where Nicholas and the others await is uneventful, if a bit longer than you would have liked. Your highly visible trail ensures you stick in the right direction; while you'd typically be worried about being followed, it's unlikely that you're going to encounter anyone else so soon with a natural battlefield of such impressive size and the dwindling number of contestants.

As the crumbling ruins come into view, your master balls her hands into fists, squeezing her slight frame closer to you. Then, she leans up to whisper in your ear, her breath brushing against your skin.

"Do you… want a name?"

>Recollection Rate DC: 90 | Roll: 1d100 + 15(Arts of the Hassan: Blood That Binds) + 25(Promised Memory) = 92

"Arthur. I am… Arthur. Of the —."

"Them? Well. Well, well, well. I thought they'd all died out by now. You're the last one, then? A little too young to be a king, if you ask me."

"I am the king of nothing, Lady Hassan. Now–will you accept my offer?"

In contrast to the sudden - if slightly subdued - emotions that you feel, your steady pace continues, leaving you seemingly unphased on the surface. Internally, though, you're a mess.

"If it would please you, my lady," is all you can bring yourself to say.

She leans back in your embrace, nodding firmly. "Of course. Everyone needs a name. If you'd like, you can even come up with your own! I don't mind helping you choose one, either."

—

>"...Then I would like to be known as Arthur." (+2 STR, +3 SOUL, ???)

>"...Shall I accept your brother's name?" (Write-in.) (???)

>"...You are too kind." (Write-in.) (+3 Stat Points)

>>5470674
>"...Then I would like to be known as Arthur." (+2 STR, +3 SOUL, ???)

>>5470676
+1

>>5470674
>Insist that she be the one to decide.

>>5470674
>>"...Then I would like to be known as Arthur." (+2 STR, +3 SOUL, ???)

So I guess this explains why we didn't see many corpses on the field earlier, the competitors can surrender and bail if they're lucky.

Alice has two points now, that makes me wonder where her first point came from. My current guess is that she may have gotten credit for her brother's death, one way or another.

>>5470674
>>"...Then I would like to be known as Arthur." (+2 STR, +3 SOUL, ???)

>>5470674

>"...Shall I accept your brother's name?" (Write-in.) (???)

If our master wishes for her servant to be her brother, then her brother we shall be

>>5470674
>"...Then I would like to be known as Arthur." (+2 STR, +3 SOUL, ???)

>>5470674
>"...Then I would like to be known as Arthur." (+2 STR, +3 SOUL, ???)

>>5470674
>"...Then I would like to be known as Arthur." (+2 STR, +3 SOUL, ???)
Give the big stats.

Surprisingly, now that I think about it, SOUL is probably not as clear of a dump stat as I originally pinned it as. Sure, we're not a mage but we're not limited to just using magic as damage output. The most mundane thing we could (and should) do with it is is figure out some way to regenerate Wounds in combat, we are a punchmeat monster so we have to find some way to stay in combat without our Masters aid, but we could probably find good utility use outside of that.
Self-buffs that add temporary dice to our die pools for a set number of combat turns or actions for example, maybe even instant teleportation so we can fuck people's shit up without having to close the gap. And maybe we can do something cool with it too, like unlocking the ability to infuse our weapons with elemental damage to increase damage output and bypass parts of our enemies END score.

Man, this could become really neat.

>>5471172
Or the very classic DnD undead thing of "undead touching you drain stats/levels" because that's was what made undead proper scary.

>>5471172
The Soul Stat is definitely, totally not indicative of your actual Soul! You don't need to worry about it at all; as a matter of fact, I absolutely, completely, 100% recommend just leaving it at the bare minimum required for basic consciousness. No, you might even find something really cool if you get it down to zero... Or maybe even the negatives!

>CUN DC: AUTOFAIL

You can trust me, promise! wink

>>5471198
Well, I'm convinced

>>5470674
>"...Then I would like to be known as Arthur." (+2 STR, +3 SOUL, ???)
>>5471198
Okay I believe you

>>5470674
>"...Then I would like to be known as Arthur." (+2 STR, +3 SOUL, ???)
I want some SOUL. It seems important.

I'm afraid I have a few essays due, so the next update won't be for a couple of days. I'll see how things go on Thursday or Friday. Thanks for bearing with me.

>>5471690
You're writing is wonderful and worth the wait, get your stuff handled and good luck!

WE
ARE
BACK IN BUSINESS, BABY
EASY FUCKIN ESSAY(S)
Update later tonight. Please wait warmly.

>>5475632
finally some good news!

Rolled 6, 6, 2 = 14 (3d6)

CUN DC: 7/14
Perception utilized.

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>>5476335
Easiest roll of all time.

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>"...Then I would like to be known as Arthur." (+2 STR, +3 SOUL, ???)

It takes less than a second for you to choose your name. Truthfully, you're already halfway through the sentence before you realize you're speaking at all.

It's a disconcerting feeling, but–

"Arthur."

Your master's voice cuts through the strange mist that pollutes your mind, clearing your thoughts to focus wholly on her. There's a considering tone to the way she says your name; testing, almost rolling it around her mouth.

Were you still alive, you might have felt a thrill at the thought. Some touch of happiness. Even now, as an undead, you should've been able to feel something upon being gifted a privilege like a name, no matter how dull and diluted the sensation of emotion might be for you.

But when she says it, all you feel is a heavy weight.

"Arthur," she says again. You suppress the urge to shudder–and even that sends alarms ringing through your mind. You take a breath, preparing to speak; perhaps even to retract the name, and replace it with something else.

"I like it," she says at last, and that's that. Your mouth shuts with a click, and you continue your journey through the forest at a steady pace. Unaware of the alien turmoil roiling within your mind, Lady Alice continues to speak, her voice a little firmer now that some semblance of life is beginning to return to her.

"Not too many people adopt the name of Arthur these days, you know? Why did you choose it?"

I remembered it. "I searched the imprint archives, my Lady. It simply stood out to me."

She gives a pleased hum. "Oh? That's good news. I wasn't sure if they'd… be intact."

Reminded of your rough make, your master deflates a little, shoulders hunched as she shrinks in on herself. "I… must apologize for your difficult birth, Arthur. You've performed wonderfully; once again, thank you. I'll try to fix you up once this is over."

Something within you trembles–perhaps it's what remains of your withered heart. The last dregs of a conscience, crying out. "No, Lady Alice. I–I offer all gratitude to you, instead. My struggles are through no fault of your own. Rather, it is because you are here that I may overcome them. Truly, I am grateful to serve at your side."

Thankfully, she's too busy looking down to meet your eyes; lying to her like this sickens you in a way that doesn't bear description; the defunct intestines within your abdomen seem to come to life once again, twisting themselves into complex knots, fit to rupture with the itching wrongness of your crime. How strangely inconvenient, for you to feel things so strongly now. Inconvenient, yet perhaps deserved. Just.

There's a bittersweet relief in the knowledge that you do not truly need to breathe. You likely would've let out a terrible, terrible sigh by now if you retained such instincts.

Your master raises her head, drawing you from your treacherous thoughts. "We're back," she mumbles.

Grunting in acknowledgement, you survey the area for any sign of your temporary cohorts. Right on cue, the mildly annoying features of Nicholas pop up from behind a largely-intact wall, his two-tone hair sticking out like a sore thumb. Upon spotting you, he waves energetically, then disappears once more.

You trudge towards his perch; at your master's insistence, you grudgingly let her down to walk under her own power. Thankfully, she has the sense to wrap her unbroken arm around your own. Despite the nobleman's medications, there's still a faint uncertainty to her steps.

You must become stronger.

>CUN DC: 7/14 | Roll: 2d6 + 1d6(Perception) = 14

"-watch duty, and it runs off into the woods as soon as we take our eyes off it! We can't rely on–!"

"Come now, Felicia, my dear. He came back! I'm sure he had a good reason to leave… Ah, listen, here they come. Why don't we just ask them?"

"Y-yes, that'd be the most sensible course of action. I have to agree with Master Nicho–"

"Just Nicholas, Amelia. Please. I keep telling you…"

As you pick your way through the first few marble barriers and round the bend, the last few dregs of a mostly-whispered argument reach you. A grimace flashes across Lady Alice's face; it seems like it hasn't gone unheard by her, either.

Nicholas, flanked by the red-headed twins, raises a hand as you approach. "Welcome back, Lady Hassan, Sir Undead. Your sudden disappearance had us worried for a bit. Though, far be it for me to pry into what a man and a… uh, girl, might get up to alone."

He locks eyes with you. Then, in a manner you can only describe as "aggressively suggestive," he wiggles his eyebrows; fat, bushy caterpillars dancing across his forehead. To cap it all off, he shoots an exaggerated wink at your master.

The two of you stare blankly at him. A distant part of your mind filters through the spotty information stored within your formulae; could this be an "innuendo"?

Before you can work out an appropriate response, Felicia smacks her master on the arm, shooting him a disgusted look. Then, she turns that glare onto you, reinforcing it with a healthy layer of suspicion.

"You–!" she starts, then immediately breaks off, glancing to the side as if noticing your master for the first time. "Oh, you're awake. Are you feeling any better? Vitae takes some time to replenish bloodloss–I wouldn't recommend walking about like that."

Thoroughly caught off guard, your master is slow to respond. "Y-yes, thank you. I'll, um, try to keep that in mind."

Lady Alice grabs a fistful of your tunic - what little peeks out from beneath your armor - and half-hides behind you, half-pushes you to the front.

This time Amelia's the one to speak, cutting off her sister before she can begin again. "Ah–as Master Nicholas says, welcome back. I'm afraid we have to ask, though–where did you two go off to?"

Simple enough. Your body moves on pure memory, placing a fist against your chest and straightening your back as you prepare to give a report.

"I briefly spoke with Lord Nicholas–"

He gives an audible sigh at the title. You continue as if he never spoke at all. "-inquiring upon the condition of my master. He left her in my care, stating that she would recover quickly. Soon after reaching my assigned post along the southern field - within the forest range - we were ambushed by a crossbowman, a competing participant presumably acting on their own. I tracked her down and… disposed of the threat."

You finish with a snort. "My apologies for the unexpected length of this operation. The target was rather evasive."

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There's a brief moment of silence as your audience digests this information. Nicholas crosses his legs, propping up his arm to hold his chin.

"I have a few questions for you, Sir Undead. One; did you kill her? And two; what made you decide to pursue this girl?"

There's a twinkle of amusement in his eye. You can't discern anything from his companions–but a quick glance at the bands around their arms shows that not a single one of them is below five points.

—

>"Yes, I killed her." (Write-in a response to the second question.)

>"No. I spared her." (Write-in a response to the second question.)

>Simply point to the scoring armband on your master's robes. That should answer both questions suitably.

>Write-in?

And to think, I used to be fucking terrified of writing any kind of dialogue and could go 7k+ word intervals without a single character speaking externally.

I mean the fact that those stories only ever followed a single character wandering through mostly-isolated regions probably contributed to that, but still. Feels good to have progressed somewhat in that regard, even if I can't tell whether or not I hit or miss on character interactions.

>>5476394
>Simply point to the scoring armband on your master's robes. That should answer both questions suitably

>>5476394
>"No. I spared her." (Write-in a response to the second question.)
>"Neutralizing threats and ensuring my Ladys Success is paramount to me. This entire Process requires the neutralization of threats to advance as such it is the most logical course"
>"Worry not. You are allies and as long as you stay allies i will have no reason to neutralize you."

Oh yeah, grats on the STR Milestone by the way. +1 STR Perk Point. I'll write them up when I wake up later.
Character sheet updated, poke me if there's anything I've forgotten.

>>5476396
You're doing great, not a worry.

>>5476402
>Support

>>5476394
>"No. I spared her." (Write-in a response to the second question.)
>"They attempted to hurt my master. And it is part of the Eden trial."
>"There is a place for you three among the 50 spots. Our alliance can be upheld."

>>5476642
I meant "they would attempt to hurt my master as it is part of the Eden trial"

>>5476394
>"No. I spared her." (Write-in a response to the second question.)
>"They attempted to hurt my master. And it is part of the Eden trial."

>>5476413
supporting

TIER 1 STRENGTH PERKS

Please select one.

>Brute Force - Increase the result of all Attack rolls made against armored opponents by 5%.

>Concussive Strikes - Successful attacks against an enemy reduce the DC of all opposed AGI/DEX checks by 10%.

>Bloodletting - 15% chance of adding another Minor Wound every time you inflict a Wound of any severity.

>>5477373
>Concussive Strikes - Successful attacks against an enemy reduce the DC of all opposed AGI/DEX checks by 10%.

>>5477373
>Concussive Strikes - Successful attacks against an enemy reduce the DC of all opposed AGI/DEX checks by 10%.
The sheer girth of our muscles intimidates the DEXfag.

>>5477373
>Bloodletting - 15% chance of adding another Minor Wound every time you inflict a Wound of any severity

>>5477373
>Concussive Strikes - Successful attacks against an enemy reduce the DC of all opposed AGI/DEX checks by 10%.
Just cover for our low speed by bringing everyone else to our level

>>5476394
>"No. I spared her." (Write-in a response to the second question.)
>"She attempted to hurt my Master. That was all the reason I needed."

>>5477373
>Brute Force - Increase the result of all Attack rolls made against armored opponents by 5%.
Everything else requires us to succeed with a dice before giving a benefit. They're "win more" perks. This one helps with that crucial first dice roll.

>>5476396
You're good, don't sell yourself short. What other quests have you written?

>>5477373
>Concussive Strikes - Successful attacks against an enemy reduce the DC of all opposed AGI/DEX checks by 10%.

I LIVE
UPDATE TONIGHT
Quick tally:
>Say what? 1
Spare: Unanimous
Point to Band: 2
>Say what? 2
I'll try to meld the write-ins since they're all more or less variations on the same sentiment: how does this sound?
"It is what Eden's trials ask of us. And even if that were not the case... I need no further reason to remove any threats to my Lady's safety."

POINT OF CLARIFICATION: Do you want to tell them "as long as we're allies I won't hurt you?" This is essentially reassuring them that you won't be the first to betray their trust. I'll work it a bit to sound more IC, of course.
>Yes, friendship to the end! Or first blood. Or if master says otherwise.
>Nah, I like to stay cool and aloof. No promises means no disappointment.
>Perk
Concussive Strikes: 4
Bloodletting: 1
Brute Force: 1
>>5477782
>what other quests
Danke, danke. Attendant Quest was my first time QMing (which you can really notice, ouch). I want to return to AQ one day, it was my most prolific bit of writing. I think it's sitting at something like 70k+ words spread out among 3 threads. Writing at like 2-3 in the morning probably fucked with the quality, but I'm thankful to everyone who bore with it.
https://suptg.thisisnotatrueending.com/archive.html?tags=AttendantQM

>>5478431
>Yes, friendship to the end! Or first blood. Or if master says otherwise.
The king of knights should keep his promises. And neither bang his half-sister or be a cuck.

>>5478431
>Yes, friendship to the end! Or first blood. Or if master says otherwise.
That said we keep rolling perception every now and then just to make sure they're not trying to pull a sneak on us. Nicholas could've killed our master earlier but didn't so betrayal is unlikely, but a healthy dose of paranoia has never harmed anyone.

>>5478431
>Yes, friendship to the end! Or first blood. Or if master says otherwise.

We wont betray you. dont try to betray us or you will regret it.

>>5478431
>Yes, friendship to the end! Or first blood. Or if master says otherwise.

>>5478431
>Attendant Quest
>Shoulder loli
I see a pattern in your quests

>>5478431
>>Yes, friendship to the end! Or first blood. Or if master says otherwise.

>>5478794
Note for the future: Give Alice a piggyback ride

>"No. I spared her."
>"It is what Eden's trials ask of us…"
>Yes, friendship to the end!

If there's any hidden meaning to these questions, you can't discern them. That said, you lose nothing by being honest here.

"I spared her. And to answer your second question; I simply did what Eden's trials asked of us. This point-scoring system did not escape my notice; we are as much targets to them as they are to us."

Your words are clear and direct, a far cry from the rasping wheezes of just a few hours prior. It seems you're adapting to the use of your body; a cause for celebration. Setting that aside, though, you're not quite finished.

Of even greater importance to you than some asinine test–

"Even if there was no such incentive, Sir Nicholas… I hardly need a reason to keep my Lady from harm." Still hiding in your shadow, your master transfers her grip from your clothes to your hand, squeezing lightly, comfortingly, as her fingers wrap around yours.

Felicia has no obvious reaction to your statement, but Amelia gives a small nod of understanding. For his part, Nicholas cocks his head, a grin on his face. "A bold declaration of one's loyalty, Sir Undead. Yet I couldn't help but notice that you said you 'spared' your assailant. So–you had the chance to permanently remove a 'threat,' as you put it, but still let her go in the end… Well, I'm simply curious as to why that is."

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Before you can respond, the nobleman laughs, moving to rise from his seat. "Though, far be it for me to pry, yes?"

As he straightens up, he glances at your master, as if considering something. Then, he gives a short, sharp nod, wiping his hand on the hem of his robes and extending it towards her in a classic gesture of genial camaraderie.

"I must say, Lady Hassan–I'm most pleased to have met you here at Eden. I do hope this alliance lasts; you and your protector have shown me something truly fascinating. Intelligent undead! The world is such a large place; don't you agree, Miss Felicia, Miss Amelia?"

His slaves make no visible response, simply glancing among themselves. Your master eyes the offending limb with some trepidation, but gingerly accepts it before the pause could be considered offensive. The brute energetically pumps her hand, then lets her go.

Lady Alice manages to squeeze out a reply. "Erm… Yes. My… pleasure?" She pauses, shakes her head, and firms herself. "The Hassan do not forget their oaths and friends. May our cooperation prove fruitful, Lord… Sir Furor."

A faint stir of pride swells up in you at her words. Your master is truly an exemplar, worthy of bearing the name of Hassan.

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Nicholas chortles, a move that sends his cheeks jiggling. "Yes, quite. Now, I see you need two more points, is that correct?"

Lady Alice bites her lip, but murmurs a confirmation. "Correct. Do you have a plan?"

The noble tilts his hand in a seesaw motion. "A couple. The easiest way would be to–"

Felicia suddenly cuts him off, a reproachful look on her face. "Sir! Please don't tell me you're going to say what I think you are." Next to her, Amelia adopts an apologetic mien. "Calling it the 'easiest' way is a bit of a… misnomer, my lord. Fast, perhaps, but also quite dangerous. Exceptionally so. A larger group may actually work against us, here…"

Nicholas rubs the back of his head, turning away from the confused gazes of you and your master. "Come now, you two. An idea is an idea. There's about…" he trails off, glancing at your master's armband–presumably the portion keeping track of the current number of combatants. He whistles lightly. "Ooh, about 112 more people left–including the 50 minimum, of course. Fewer than I expected, to be honest."

Your master meekly raises a hand. "I-I'm sorry. Would you mind explaining what's so objectionable about Sir Nicholas' plan?"

Felicia crosses her arms, letting a drawn-out sigh escape her. "He's suggesting you–"

"We!"

"–that we go into the No Man's Land at the main road. It's suicide, to put it bluntly. There's no cover except for whatever you can make from spells, and considering it's where most of the participants got dropped in at the beginning…"

Your master's already pale skin whitens the slightest bit more at the redhead's words. "...Ah. Yes–I believe I know where you speak of."

She doesn't elaborate, but sends a saddened glance your way. A tense silence falls over your group.

"...You mentioned that there were other plans," you finally say. Nicholas snaps his fingers.

"Indeed. The alternative is finding others like us–people sitting at the edge of the battle, waiting things out. There's a couple of obstacles with that, though; for one, there's no guarantee we'll be able to find anyone. For another, well… Assuming they're not just one-pointers waiting to fail, anyone smart enough and strong enough to break away will probably have a few tricks up their sleeve."

Felicia puts her hands in her lap, lacing her fingers together. "On top of that… We'll have to temporarily split up if we take this route. I'm afraid to say that the odds of us successfully catching such individuals unawares while partied as a whole are slim."

Unpleasant choices all around. As you ponder the choices laid out in front of you, you notice your master appearing unexpectedly calm, her eyes closed in thought. After a moment, she opens them, catching you looking in the process.

She tilts her head, noticing your unspoken question. The corners of her eyes curve up, ever so slightly–

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"I have faith in you," she whispers.

—

>(No Place For The Living) "...All I can offer is my body. It will be more than enough." Go for the No Man's Land.
->(No Place for the Living) Have a specific plan of action in mind? Do you want to go alone and risk only yourself, or go as a party? Etc, etc. Write-in.

>(Big Game Hunting) "The chaos of war poses an unacceptable risk. We stay at the fringes." Track down individual targets in the woods.
->(Big Game Hunting) Have a specific plan of action in mind? Do you want to go in alone or bring someone else as a partner? Who? Etc, etc. Write-in.

>Write-in?

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>>5478794
What can I say? I know what I like.

>>5478847
>>(No Place For The Living) "...All I can offer is my body. It will be more than enough." Go for the No Man's Land.
>Go as a party.
>The plan will be for our allies to lie in wait near the outskirts of the No Man's Land while we forge ahead. We will attempt to provoke an enemy group and drive them towards our allies for an ambush.
>Bring up the crossbow we captured feom the girl earlier. Determine in who's hands it will be most useful for the coming engagement.
Something of a middle ground with this plan, we will be going off on our own and assuming most of the risk initially, but we'll have our allies waiting in the wings to turn the tide when needed.