ANTON PEAS: that’s your name… don’t wear it out! Feels like it’s been ages since a botched summoning ritual brought you to ZORAL: a fantasy world shrouded in perpetual darkness… but you’ve really only been here for a few days–and BOY have you been busy!Your memories? Foggy! A way home? Uncertain! People trying to kill you? Very Yes! To say this new world is treacherous would be an understatement, to say the least, and to make matters worse, an archdevil who calls himself ’RED’ is your best chance at remembering who you were! His price? Slaying THE FOUR LORDS: a kooky quartet of tyrants and beasts who jealously rule their slice of Zoral with an iron fist… or claw… or whatever they have! Having just put an end to the overdue reign of ARCHMAGE TRIER in the never-sleeping city of UMBERAL, your aggressive altruism freed none other than KNODD, Earthmother and god of the land!Juiced up on divine powers and named the first ’CHAMPION OF THE GODS’, your new status attracted the notice of several high-rung folks, chief among them THE STAR-CLOAKS: a clandestine cadre of mages devoted to maintaining order in Zoral, no matter the cost! Weirder still was when you met their Guildmaster: VOLKIR! Volka’s adoptive father and curmudgeon par excellence, the old coot didn’t waste much time in tossing a new crisis your way: per what you heard from Trier, there’s a SIEGE headed to CROSSROADS! Who’s planning it and why? The details are foggy, but who better than you is there to help save the day?Having just acquired several Emergency Supply caches for the city from a pair of Spice Cartel Holdouts, you turn your heroic attention towards your next task: investigating a group of HEDGE MAGES holed up in one of Crossroads’ many parks… and maybe even recruiting them to your side! With the trade hub bursting at the seams from civil unrest and outside influence, you can use all the help you can get your mitts on… something tells you this ain’t gonna be easy!Making your way across a rapidly-deteriorating city, THIS is where your story continues…NEW DIVINITY-POWERED THREAD THEME!https://youtu.be/p4Z96WwZrL0
>>6405694Bar the gates and hunker down with the rest of the lads… it’s DARK QUEST! Take a peek at the links and rules below while you’re at it–you’ll be glad ya’ did!>Archive link to catch up with the last thread:https://suptg.thisisnotatrueending.com/qstarchive.html?tags=Dark%20Quest>Pastebin for INVENTORY, SKILLS, and MORE:https://pastebin.com/xdk5kHyA>Character and Other Info compiled by everyone’s favorite Spinner…https://pastebin.com/YKhP6xCtRolls are handled by a 1(or more)d100--I take the BEST OF THREE ROLLS! 1’s are CRITFAILS while 100’s are CRITSUCCESSES! Certain boosts and maluses will be applied based on the situation and existing skills.PLEASE ONLY 1 VOTE/ROLL PER PLAYER! If it’s exceptionally slow I’ll ask for people to roll again!BEEP BEEP! NEW MECHANIC!!! BAD LUCK BALATRO: Every day you get ONE reroll on a LUCK-BASED ROLL (Bluffing, Acrobatics, Dodging... situations where BAD LUCK would make sense per the anon that suggested it! Swell idea, mac!) I will provide the prompt when appropriate!Describing your actions, write-ins, and GENERAL CREATIVITY are all APPRECIATED AND REWARDED--we like to keep things LIGHT and CHILL here, so come on in and have some fun! FAN ART, THEORIES, AND CONSTRUCTIVE FEEDBACK ARE ALL VERY MUCH APPRECIATED!DISCLAIMER: THIS QUEST IS DARK. YOU HAVE BEEN WARNED
>>6405696“About time.”Speak of the devil and he shall appear, you reply with a wry grin and an odd and extra-angry glance from Rezalith next to you.The three-eyed construct doesn’t even have to turn around to address you as you enter the store–a series of chimes announcing your arrival like a pixie garage band. “Toppel and I are downstairs entertaining our… guest.” Oti continues as his autonomous assistant finally faces you. “Hurry down and we’ll cut to the main course.”Sure, you shrug, face puckering at the acrid smell of gunpowder blanketing the store, but… why HERE exactly? You had to hoof it halfway across CROSSROADS! And people are getting looty!“Don’t act like I didn’t carry you most of the way…” Snarls Rezalith, the fiend’s wings flapping angrily as she sends you a sidelong and very snippy glance!You didn’t know a magical construct could frown, but ya’ learn something new every day! “Surely you recall this is where my TOWER is located?” Asks the Chytree’s disembodied and perpetually-peeved voice as you firmly, but politely snatch a particularly-large piece of ordnance out of Rezalith’s eager claws, “The defenses are primed. No one will be able to scry us or our new tenant, and if they do, well… they’ll wish they didn’t.”The automaton pauses.“... And it’s a FIREWORKS SHOP. Who buys fireworks at a time like this?”… What if someone wanted to use them to blow something up? People are getting a little antsy outside, what with the martial law and-A faint metallic rumble wriggles free of the robot. A laugh?“The shop’s closed–I unlocked the door when I sensed your approach, but unless someone else shows up in the nex-”A door’s-worth of perfect timing slams into your back and sends you stumbling, heralding the arrival of an EXEPTIONALLY surly-looking Skog! With you too busy peeling yourself off the floor and Rezzie too busy snickering at your misfortune, it falls upon Oti’s magically-animated merchant to take charge of the situation!“We’re closed. Go away.”Expertly-handled. Yep, that oughta’ do it.“Now hold on a coupla twoertree seconds!” Growls the giant as he stoops under the doorframe with a stony look in his eye, “I’s been tryin’ ta’ frequent dis’ here fireworksery fer’ weeks now, see?!”“And why, pray tell, can’t our automated associates assist you… sir?” Oti answers in a tone that usually precedes a particularly murderous spell.“It’s a special order I’ve got, see?” Explains the Skog as he steps over your still-collapsed carcass! “An’ they kept tellin’ me ta’ speak ta’ the manager about it! So where’s the manager, ey?”An uncomfortable silence settles over the shop as you stumble to your feet. “He’s… a bit tied up,” Groans Oti through his construct, “But-”>CONTD.
>>6405703“Oi. You.” The Skog snarls, jabbing a claw into your recently-risen chest that is TOTALLY gonna leave a bruise, you just know it, “Youse’s the manager, ain’tcha? Well MANAGE!”You answer his request with a befuddled blink followed by a placating grin. And, uh, what makes him assume you’re the manager of this fine establi-“Yer’ the only one in ‘ere, ain’t ya? ‘Side fer’ your security wench, that is!” He rumbles as his eye flits over to a confused Rezalith! Bad move, you think with a sinister smile! She’s not gonna let him talk about her li-“I want my name to be BEATRY.”Goddamn it. Look, you groan, you’re no-“Anton,” Oti’s construct crackles, “I’ve too many potions on the boil right now. Handle this swiftly. Or I will.”Why are YOU always handling everyone else’s problems? When’s someone gonna handle YOUR problems, huh? You were fine with helping Tzah-Tzie scratch that itch between her ears before she ran off to help with the RECRUITMENT DRIVE! You politely listened to Volka’s joke through the COMMS DOOHICKY! AND Morook’s attempt at one! You even acquiesced when Rezalith ordered you to give her a compliment–any why wouldn’t you? She was carrying you, like, a million feet above the city!This uh, ‘customer’ doesn’t seem too riled up, but you dunno how much that’ll change if you screw things up here! Taking a steadying breath, you decide to…>Double-down! We’re closed! Come back later please!>Indulge! What exactly does he need?>Probe! Can’t he come back later? What’s the rush?>Delegate! Rezzo, deal with this guy!>Deflect! You’re not the manager, dude, and the guy who is is a powerful and really impatient wizard!>Stay Silent! He’ll Think You Disappeared!>BIISII’S BAG!>Write-In!
>>6405705>Deflect! You’re not the manager, dude, and the guy who is is a powerful and really impatient wizard!
>>6405705>Deflect! You’re not the manager, dude, and the guy who is is a powerful and really impatient wizard!Missed you, bub, and glad to be back in Zoral!
>>6405706>>6405823>>6405825>DEFLECT! Writing! Expect it to take a little time though--my idiot brain decided to start this shit when I'm busy. Leopard can't change its spots I guess!>>6405825Thanks, big dog--missed you jerks too. And writing.
You’re not exaggerating when you say you don’t have time for this. The siege of Crossroads approaches, probably–hard to say considering how dark this damn place is–and you’re no expert, but you’re pretty sure whoever’s coming isn’t going to give anyone advance notice!Look, you begin with a contrite smile and a sigh, you’re… you’re not the manager here–Hell, you don’t even work at this joint. The Skog’s face scrunches up in confusion.“Then why the HELLS-”You have to meet with the guy in charge, you continue in the most measured tone you can muster, who just so happens to be a really powerful and EXTREMELY impatient wizard… and Crossroads itself hangs in the balance, so-The tusked terror’s sour expression softens somewhat. “... Oh. You ain’t jokin’, are ya…?”Fraid not, you shrug, you don’t wanna alarm him or anything, but there’s actually a siege on the horizon an-“A SIEGE?” Sputters the Skog as his eyes bulge in shock, “Hells, and here I am tryin’ ta’ grab some fireworks for my boy’s birthday! Tapping tottas… B-but a siege? Ya’ sure?”You can’t help but blink at the sudden reveal. Y-yea, you nod, did… does he not notice how tense it is outside? You must’ve passed, like, six lootings on the way here!“Woulda’ been seven if you didn’t wuss out on me…” Rezzie grunts as she idly juggles some explosives.She’s damn right you did!The customer’s face scrunches up with very Volka-esque contemplation.“... I DID hear a few soothsayers shouting about the end times and the red comet, yea…” He murmurs, stroking his tusk in thought. “But I reckoned that was just from Guild Chair Fellick dyin’! Ya’ hear about how they still haven’t got a suspect? Scary!”Yea, it’s, uh… it’s really been at the forefront of your mind, you reply with a half-assed nod. Your answer isn’t wholly-sarcastic–your recon mission to the Bell Tower with Tzah-Tzie a few days ago left you with more questions than answers: sure, you managed to fight off that one BURROWER CULT summoner Jhairo and snag their hand in the process, but from what you gathered from the scene and your subsequent cult infiltration, the Burrowers didn’t seem to be the ones behind the death of Crossroads’ de facto ‘ruler’...Fat load of good the ensuing lockdown did. Granted, you had to leave town through secret smuggling tunnels, but you don’t need to see to tell the town’s losing its cool–and a siege is only gonna add more fuel to the fire!So uh, you cough, would it be okay if he came back another time, or-“Wha? Of course, of course!” Answers the Skog with an embarrassed laugh! “Hells, if we’ve got a siege on the way then it can wait! Stay safe, lil’ buddy!”Errr, y-yea, you too, you mutter as the Skog departs with an amicable wave! B-big buddy…>CONTD.
>>6406031“Tch. Poor performance indeed!” Rezzie grumbles as a blanket of fresh silence falls over the shop. Is that right, you remark as you make your way towards the entrance to Oti’s Tower, and what, pray tell, would SHE have done differently, hmm?“5% Discount on his next purchase for being such a trooper.” She replies with a glimmer in her eye! “Rewards loyalty and encourages word-of-mouth advertising that’ll appeal to the wary consumer. Anyone can buy a firecracker these days, but finding a store that cares about its customers? THAT’S money in the bank.”… Yea alright, let’s just go already.“AnTURNIP doesn’t even know about Retention 101… SAD!”SSHHH!!!“That was quicker than I anticipated.”Yea, you scoff as Oti’s bright green eyes await you at the bottom of a long, spiraling ramp, no thanks to him! What’s he thinking, foisting a customer on you like that? The Chytree shrugs.“You’re better with people.”… Okay, granted, but-An exultant cackle echoes across the antechamber as a pair of orange eyes dart around a corner and rush over to the Tower’s master!“HaHAAA! Took some time, but that mischievous little mage is ready to siiiing~”“Perfect timing–our interrogator is here.”Following Oti’s gaze over to yours, the mirth in Toppel’s delighted Durher face dissipates like sugar in a rainstorm!“... Ah.” She remarks as your presence settles in, “... I should… probably put something on… huh.”Oti’s stare only intensifies. “I haven’t a clue why you didn’t sooner, but I know better than to ask.” The sorceress’ expression sharpens.“Y-you know I work best this way! And I never heard you complaini-”Fun as this conversation is, you interject with a pointed sigh, this mage they caught–what’s the story?“What indeed…” Toppel huffs as a snap of her fingers swaddles her unseen form in fresh magic, “We found them skulking about BRAITHWIID PARK a few hours ago. Mox girl. Kinda jittery.”You blink. So they just… kidnapped some random lady from the park?“Would it KILL you to give me some credit?” The sorceress groans as her eyes dance over to Rezzie for encouragement! She gets none.“... The girl reeks of magic–you’ll smell it too.” Toppel continues with a halfhearted sigh. “Nothing in her pockets save for a few bells and some Scraperoot. Here’s the important part, however: she was CLOAKED. Tried her damndest to hide every and any magical signature… but look where it got her!” She concludes with a triumphant laugh!Who’s watching her now?“Obber,” The girl shrugs, “But don’t worry–he knows better than to play with the goods.”“Her magical abilities should be fettered for a time…” Adds Oti as he leads you closer to where they’re keeping her, “I trust the potion worked?”>CONTD.
>>6406032“Course it did!” Toppel answers with a twirl! “She’s rattled, but she’ll talk–I’d bet my name on it!”Part of you wants to bring up how you just ran into Toppel’s brother at Torfeo’s place, but you decide otherwise when Oti half-leads, half-ushers you down the hall, leaving Rezalith to fend for herself against her ‘biggest fan’.“The prisoner should be malleable,” He begins in the usual stern, vaguely-condescending tone, “But ask your questions slowly and clearly.”Anything in particular you should fish for? The Chytree nods.“We need to know who else is with her and what they intend.” He answers, drifting at your side like a loyal party balloon. “With luck they’ll merely wish to be left alone.”… And… without luck?“They’re up to something.” Oti answers as his eyes burn into yours. “... Do you feel lucky today?”You don’t bother answering. Turning the corner places you in a room ripe with the smell of ozone, alcohol (of the medical variety), and several more medicine-like fragrances your nose has trouble placing. In the center of it all sits a Mox–the girl’s half-lidded gaze and dopey grin hiding any sense of fear or worry!“We’ll be outside.” Oti hisses as you feel his presence depart from your side, “Call if you need us!”Making your way inside, you hear a few familiar claw-clicks against the stony floor. Obber, you begin, any ideas on where to start?“Click.”Good call. Where do you begin with this one?>Introductions! You’re Anton! Who is she?>To the point: What is she doing in the park?>Associates: Who are her friends?>Demographics: Where is she from, exactly?>Current Events: She knows there’s a siege coming, right?>Comforts: Does she need anything?>Profession: She’s a mage, right? Shouldn’t she be at Trimbault Academy or something?>W-wait a sec! Toppel! Oti! You've got a question!!!! P-PLEAAAAASSEEE!!!>Write-In!
>>6406033>Introductions! You’re Anton! Who is she?
>>6406033>Introductions! You’re Anton! Who is she?>Demographics: Where is she from, exactly?Let's get to know each other, shall we?
>>6406033>Introductions! You’re Anton! Who is she?>To the point: What is she doing in the park?
>>6406036>>6406043>>6406044THE TALLY:>INTRODUCTIONS: 3>WHERE FROM: 1>WHAT YOU DOIN: 1Screw it, I'll toss 'em all in! Writing!
Hey, you might’ve indirectly been involved in kidnapping her, but that doesn’t mean you have to be mean about it! Clearing your throat to get the captive caster’s attention, you give the Mox that winning Anton Smile of yours as you introduce yourself!ANTON PEAS: that’s your name… don’t wear it out! Feels like it’s been ages since a botched summoning ritual brought you to ZORAL: a fantasy world shrouded in perpetua-Err, s-sorry, you cough as the Mox watches in muted confusion, force of habit! Anyways, you’re Anton! Who is she? Still gobsmacked by what you can only assume is a far cry from whatever Toppel and Obber were putting her through, the Mox stammers out a quiet response:“O-O-Oodeel…” She squeaks, Toppel’s potion clearly not doing as much for her nerves as the sorceress suggested, “C-can you let me out, please?”All in due time, you reply with a laugh! But look, Oodie–can you call her Oodie?If Oodie has any complaints, she doesn’t voice them.… Super. So Oodie, you uh… where is she from, anyways? The Mox stirs with discomfort etched into her expression.“... Wh-why?”You’re just curious, you answer as you approach with a nonchalant shrug! You, uh… you heard she was hanging out in the park and-“BIRSTAADT…” She interrupts–eyes widening as she realizes she talked over you! “E-errr, I… I’m from Birstaadt… th-the briarberry town…”Wow, you answer as a low whistle leaves your lips, quite a jaunt, that!“... It’s… a Hamlet… right outside Crossroads…”Ah. Well. Clearing your throat again, you make the rare decision NOT to embarrass yourself any further! Here’s the thing, you begin in a placating tone, you heard through the grapevine that she and some other people are, well… loitering in the park.You pause as the girl starts to tremble.M-maybe even lurking? Perhaps? What’s that all about? The girl turns away from your question as panic wells up in her face!“... N-nothing really…”Huh. Well, you tried… Clapping your hands together with a sigh, you move to leave the room–or you try to at least! Before you can get very far, you feel a beak dig into your robe and tug it back towards your interviewee! Obber, you hiss, what’s the deal!? She said they weren’t-That’s when it hits you. What if… what if she isn’t telling you the whole truth!? Scratching your somewhat-hairy chin in thought, you abandon your abandoning and turn your attention back towards your mark!There’s no way that’s the truth–not unless this is just some random Mox, that is! You’ll admit you wouldn’t put it past Oti and Toppel to kidnap a random woman off the street–you literally met the former in the middle of a kidnapping and the latter, well…Toppel’s never really struck you as a girl flush with morals…>CONTD.
>>6406183Steadying yourself with another breath, you begin to conjure up an idea–you know she’s not telling the truth now, of course, but how do you get it outta her?>Cooperate: Tell her you’re trying to save the city! You’re a hero and you need her help!>Bargain: If she tells you you’ll let her go! And her pals, maybe!>Befriend: Hey, want something to eat?>Intimidate: She wouldn’t like to make you angry…>Stay Silent! She’ll think you’re super angry!>Good Cop/Bad Cop: Bring Toppel or Oti in! That’ll get ‘em on your side!>Your ole’ pal RED has some ideas…>Obber: You’re not sure what he’ll do, but maybe he can help?>Plead: C’mon you really really need this>Authority: Hint at who she’s dealing with! It’d be a REALLY bad idea to not cooperate…!>Write-In!
>>6406185>Cooperate: Tell her you’re trying to save the city! You’re a hero and you need her help!We're the GOOD GUYS. We love being GOOD>Befriend: Hey, want something to eat?And that means you're our FRIEND NOW :^)
>>6406185>Cooperate: Tell her you’re trying to save the city! You’re a hero and you need her help!That's exactly right! >Obber: You’re not sure what he’ll do, but maybe he can help?I'm not sure what he would do at all... And I'm not afraid to find out!!!
>>6406185>>Cooperate: Tell her you’re trying to save the city! You’re a hero and you need her help!
>>6406237>>6406275>>6406298THE TALLY:>COOPERATE: 3>BEFRIEND: 1>OBBER: 1Looks like COOPERATION wins the day--let's see how it pays off!>Roll me 1d100 (+3 All The World's a Stage, +2 Favorable Beginnings, +2 Potion'd, -4 These people kidnapped me, -3 Who is this person and what are they doing?) to convince her to open up to you! Best of 3!
Rolled 70 (1d100)>>6406383First roll of the thread, can't be THAT bad
Rolled 91 (1d100)>>6406383
Rolled 53 (1d100)>>6406383
>>6406385>>6406389>>6406391>HIGHEST ROLL: 91!!!You've foiled my plans this time, but I'll get you, my pretties... and your little CATTETHINGE TOO!After I write the update, that is. Writing.
You’ve never been a good judge of character, but this Hedge Mage trembling in front of you like a chihuahua in a blizzard? You don’t think they’re ‘Evil Ringleader’ material. A goon or lackey at worst–and at best? You’re not up to date on age ranges for Zoral’s races either, but she seems like a kid to you–one who is clearly in over her bulbous, scaly head! Look, you sigh as the girl’s big, trembling eyes burn into your skull, you don’t know what she and her pals are up to, but that isn’t important right now!“I-It’s… n-not?” She mutters, casting a wary glance your way!You have very good reason to believe that Crossroads is going to be under siege soon, you explain, but you and your friends? You’re here to save the day! The wary glance only becomes… warier.“R-really?”Yea, you nod, you’re working with the city–err, well, you’re more of an independent contractor really–and you just came back from acquiring a boatload of EMERGENCY SUPPLIES!“You…” She stammers as the suspicion starts to fade from her voice, “You did that?”Absolutely, but it’s kind of a long story so she can read the last thread if she wants the details! Check it out here!https://suptg.thisisnotatrueending.com/qstarchive/2026/6361939/Just like that the wariness returns. “... How do you do that? With your words? Was that another language, or-”“Click.” Obber interjects.He’s right–you really need to keep your beak to the grindstone! SO, you cough, in the interest of saving lives, what are her friends up to anyways?Like a stone being dislodged from its spot along a trail, the Mox’s panicked silence gives way to a defeated sigh!“We… we just want to use our magic for good, y’know?”Is… that not allowed? You’re not really up to date on magickal politics.“Click.”Wait, seriously?“Yes…” Oodeel mutters in assent, “It starts when you’re young–the moment you show signs of… well, talent, people start to show up: Templars. Wizards. City ‘Officials’ who don’t show your parents any identification… and it just gets worse the older you get…” She continues as her voice grows quieter with each syllable! “They say it’s different in Umberal, but only if you’re rich… and the West, well… Sk-Skogs don’t like magic…”So let me guess, you interrupt with a frown, she and her pals are, what, just free agents?“Aiido–h-he’s the leader of the pack–he was a pen pal of mine.” Oodeel answers as the specter of a smile slips onto her face. “He’s a mage too… One day he just… asked to meet. So I did.”Your frown deepens. He didn’t…“Hurt me? No, of course not!” She answers almost incredulously! “Turns out he… he was corresponding with a lot of people… l-like me…”Mages that weren’t too keen on being monitored, huh? The Mox nods.>CONTD.
>>6406401“None of us came from wealth or status, really.” She shrugs. “So Aiido, he… he suggested we just… work for ourselves. If we all team up, well-”They’d be a force to be reckoned with, huh? She shakes her head with a weak smile.“F-force? No, just… we’d look out for each other… a-and others, if they needed help…”A girl after Volka’s own heart, you think to yourself with a wry grin. Still, it’s hard to believe these folks could warrant such a stir from the city… guess you gotta dig deeper.So, you continue, what brings them to the park, then? Couldn’t they just… y’know, magick up a cabin or something?“Oh, we’re… we’re not LIVING in the park…” Oodeel explains as the tension slowly fades from her form, “We, well… w-we have a… a job…”Ah. And there it is. What job, exactly? The girl squirms a bit in her seat–probably some kind of dentist chair, knowing the kooks you hang out with.“Under the park, well… th–there’s supposed to be a… a vault…” She begins, still clearly unsure if she wants to tell you or not, “W-we were asked to open it…”You and Obber exchange a glance. Probably. Hard to tell when the guy’s all-beak–you really oughta get him and Toppel to go back to their original forms…… or not, actually. Obber looks a lot less creepy as a Maakar bloodsucker.Oodeel’s eyes nearly pop out as an invisible timer seems to go off in her head! “A-AH!!! A-And I REALLY need to get back to them! Th-they’ll be worried SICK about me a-and… and the job–w-we need to do it SOON or-!”You’d love to ask her more, but the poor thing’s practically gnawing at whatever’s restraining her to the chair… moreover, how much would she even know about the job anyways? Never hurts to ask, but she’s got a point–once her pals notice she’s gone missing, well…What do? (Choose 1 or more, but remember: you’re on a schedule!)>What’s in this vault?>Who hired them?>’Under the park’? Do they plan on digging or something?>Tell me more about your friends!>This sounds like a dangerous job. Is it a dangerous job?>Do they need help?>They need to cancel. It’s not a good time for it!>Be right back–you gotta talk to your associates.>Write-In!
>>6406403>They need to cancel. It’s not a good time for it!Let's get right to the point. This is a really bad time to be doing this, man. Maybe wait, I dunno, forever before you do it.
>>6406403>Who hired them?>Write-in: Maybe let's put a fork in this, and you tackle this vault situation AFTER we've managed to break the siege? I don't think it's a good time to do that for your sake, and might be a problem for everyone else too.
>>6406403>They need to cancel. It’s not a good time for it!
>>6406475>>6406627>YEA TIME TO RESCHEDULE DUDE>>6406477>WHO HIRED THEM>ALSO YEA DO IT AFTER THE SIEGESorry for the wait--Friday got mad busy! Looks like telling them to call a rain check wins it. Writing later today!
You have no clue what Oodie means by ‘vault’, but you get the feeling she isn’t talking about a piggie bank. Doesn’t matter. Whatever’s inside can probably wait to be freed AFTER the potential sacking of the city, right? Relaying your rationale to your prisoner, you’re almost taken aback by how swiftly she surrenders!“Yes!” She squeaks with an emphatic nod, “Y-you’re absolutely right, Anton! If Crossroads is on the cusp of a siege, well… t-then we definitely can’t open any vaults! Nope! None!”Hey hey! Mission ACCOMPLISHED, then, you remark as you stoop down to give Obber a high-beak! And hand!“CLICK!”https://youtu.be/Z-8kpqYhMSE“Oh… but wait…” The Mox mutters as the excitement fades from her face, “Th-they… they won’t listen to me… probably…”Really? Aren’t they your pals?“Y-yes, but…” She stammers, “But Aiido’s the leader–and he said this job would be really l-lucrative… and we REALLY need money, s-so… s-sorry…”Okay, you groan, maybe… maybe if she tells them what you told her?The Mox lights up once more! “Y-you’re right! Aiido’s not dumb! Or mean! He’ll listen, I’m sure of it!”Alriiiight! Up top!“Click.”https://youtu.be/Z-8kpqYhMSE“D’ohhh, wait! Oh I’m SO STUPID! Stupid, stupid Oodeel!!”This time it’s your turn to join her in looking morose. Oh brother, you sigh, what’s wrong now?“W-well…” Oodeel explains with an apologetic smile, “I, erm… w-well I can’t exactly send them a message in this… well, wherever we are…”So you’ll get her out! Easy-peasy!“Yes! Yes, let’s do that! I’ll send the message immediately!”“Click.”https://youtu.be/Z-8kpqYhMSE“Wait, what if… what if they’ve already departed? I… I might not be able to get the message to them if–”Would they really leave without her? She was helping prepare, right?“Yes! Yes I was! I was going to gather rations! There’s no way they’d go on a deep delve without those!”“Clack.”https://youtu.be/Z-8kpqYhMSE“D’OH WAIT THEY CAN JUST CONJURE RATIONS! STUPID!”C-can’t we just rush over and stop them!?“You’re RIGHT!”“CLICK.”https://youtu.be/Z-8kpqYhMSE“B-but what if it’s too laaaatte!?”It’s fine, you laugh in a placating tone, she hasn’t been in here for that long–if she knows where to go you’ll have plenty of time to head them off! They probably didn’t even leave yet!“Y-yea..”“Cli-”https://youtu.be/Z-8kpqYhMSE“ANTON! Any luck!? I spent HOURS doping that dope, so-”DAMN IT, TOPPEL!>CONTD.
>>6406825“So…” Oti remarks after you finish explaining the situation, “A vault beneath the park… not outside the realm of possibility in these parts…”“More common than you’d think!” Chirps Toppel as the now-freed Oodeel cowers at your side, “Leftovers from the Nuugal, Ospeerli, Kiitorn! Weapons, enchanted artifacts… and lots of traps, of course. The city works tirelessly to seal them away and out of the public eye, but they’re there! Quite a lucky find for these mages!”“I-It’s f-for… our employer…” Oodeel whimpers. “B-but that sounds… nice…”Yea, about that, you interject with a reassuring, albeit impatient smile, who hired them again? The Mox squirms at the question.“Th-they spoke to Aiido…” She begins in an apologetic tone, “B-but they didn’t… l-leave a name. That’s wh-what Aiido told us, at least…”“Sounds like a COWARD to me! Won’t give their name… foists tasks onto others… typical...” Rezalith remarks with a disapproving snort!“More likely someone deficient in scruples.” Oti sighs with a shake of his head, “But you’re correct–they must know something about the vault’s contents if they’ve opted to send in a pack of magic-slinging vagabonds.”Your ex-captive frowns. “H-hey…”“Click.”Obber's right, you begin with a confident nod, whatever’s in there should stay in there… for now, at least!“Good thinking!” Toppel adds with a toothy grin, “We can plunder it for ourselves while everyone else is busy!”You’ll burn that bridge when you get there. Oodie, can you tell us where the entrance to the Vault is?“B-better!” She says with a smile! “I c-can just s-share the information directly into y-your mind!” The fishy-looking thing blinks. “O-or I can lead you there myself… I can speak to my friends…”“Sure,” Toppel scoffs with a Rezzie-like eyeroll, “And lead us right into an ambush…”“Wh-wha!? No! I… I wouldn’t!”Good grief. Well the party’s been briefed, and with luck Oodeel’s friends are taking their sweet time… what’s the move here?>Ask about their employer–were they going to meet them after opening the vault, or?>Oti, Toppel–anything helpful you can add about these Vaults?>Oodie, should you know anything about her pals in advance?>Let’s move out! (Who ya’ takin’? CHOOSE NONE, SOME, OR ALL! REZZIE/OTI/TOPPEL/OBBER/OODEEL)?>Write-In!
>>6406827>Ask about their employer–were they going to meet them after opening the vault, or?Whoever they are, they seem to think the siege is the right distraction to send some punks in to swipe some kind of loot. >Let’s move out! (Who ya’ takin’? CHOOSE NONE, SOME, OR ALL! REZZIE/OTI/TOPPEL/OBBER/OODEEL)?We'll take Rez, Oti, and Oodalolly. Tops and Obber can go attend to other shit for us, maybe investigate this employer?
>>6406827>>6406832 +1
>>6406832+1
>>6406832>>6407055>>6407057>EMPLOYER>REZZIE, OTI, OODEEL--YOU'RE WITH ME>TOPPEL AND OBBER--SEE WHAT YOU CAN DIG UP!Writing! Sorry, yesterday got a lil busy
Nobody’s leading nobody into an ambush, okay?“Anybody.” Frowns Rezalith.Whatever! Anybody isn’t leading nobody into an ambush! But that brings up an interesting point–Oodeel, did this mysterious employer mention, like, a drop-off point or anything? Y’know, for the payout? The Mox’s already-enlarged eyes puff out to even bigger proportions!“W-well…” She mutters as Oti and Toppel exchange a glance, “A-Aiido received half already…” She explains, slowly retracing what happened in her head, “A-and I think they said something about k-knowing when the job is done?”“Understandable. The collective magical discharge from a vault being unlocked would make for quite a beacon…” Toppel mutters, earning a nod from her beau. “To those expecting one, that is.”So this guy and his crew-“N-no, just one guy!” Oodeel interjects with an apologetic laugh! “H-he approached Aiido on his own–s-some kind of c-collector…?”You give the ache forming in your temples a preemptive rub. So he negotiated on his own, you narrate with a furrowed brow, that doesn’t prove anything!“No… no it doesn’t…” Oti sighs as he joins you in the headache club! “You do realize this ‘Collector’ can merely dispose of you all once you’ve cleared the way to the Vault, yes?”The Mox averts her massive gaze as embarrassment floods her face. “... W-we can handle ourselves…”The Chytree isn’t convinced. “I wonder how many bands of misguided magelings chose those as their last words... No matter. Whether the vault remains sealed or not, Anton, we’d do well to keep vigilant. Plunderers of ancient vaults are rarely charitable.”You can’t help but blink at that. Oti, you begin as a wry grin slips onto your face, is… is he worried about these gu-“Finish that syllable and it’ll be the last one you utter.” He snaps, turning his attention towards the wall, much to Toppel’s delight. “Every moment we tarry is one closer to the vault being unlocked. You, girl. Focus?”The question coupled with Oti’s stony stare takes the sorceress by surprise! “Ah! E-err, R-restoration…”“Excellent.”“Paired with my Enhancements we should be able to tackle anything!” Toppel chirps as her brother clicks in assent! Yea, about that, you mutter with a deepening frown, you’re gonna have her and her bro sit back on this one…“Wh-wha!?” Sputters the sorceress as her eyes come close to Oodeel’s size, “B-but… but you NEED me! You ALL need me!”This time it’s your turn to exchange glances with Oti.“No we don’t.”Yea, not really.The Durher’s frantic grin fades a bit. “B-but… but you like me… r-right?”>CONTD.
>>6407324You’d LIKE her and her brother to take up the rear guard, you explain in a diplomatic tone, putting the girl at ease somewhat! You, Oti, and Rezzie’ll watch Oodie’s back–they’re in charge of figuring out anything they can about this ‘Employer’!“Nothing to it!” Toppel croons with a spirited nod! “Just point us to where your last meeting took place, girl, and we’ll hunt them down like Viislan Pathfinders!“R-right!” Oodeel answers with a hint of relief in her voice, “Let… let me send you the memory…”“So we’re the ones going into the Vault, hmm?” Rezzie remarks as Oodeel’s eyes light up with magic! “I do hope this will be less boring than our last task…”“You’re more than welcome to take point when we arrive,” Answers Oti with a devious smile in his tone, “Surely a being of your caliber can thwart a gauntlet of ancient traps…”“Tch! Easy!” The demon retorts with a flick of her tail! “We’ll be done before dinnertime! Count on it!”Toppel’s eyes flicker in glowing recognition upon receiving Oodeel’s info, and with a nod and a wink your party departs–your group to the vault and its would-be pilferers, and the Gransee Siblings hot on the trail of their employer!Your trip to BRAITHWIID PARK is relatively uneventful, mainly due to Oti’s generous teleportation spell. Even in the wake of growing civil unrest the park remains somewhat… peaceful–the distant sounds of looting and panic replaced by the gentle melody of the midday breeze passing through the canopy overhead coupled with the babbling of a distant brook!If anyone else is sampling the outdoors with you, they choose not to be seen–but if any of your jolly entourage cares, well, they don’t speak up about it!“J-just down h-here…” Oodeel chitters, the poor girl rubberbanding between leading the charge and slowing down to stay close to your pack. “W-watch, um… y-your step… pl-please…”A timely and considerate warning, but one that doesn’t matter as you tumble down a steep bank and into a muddy bank below! As your pals float down to meet you, no one offers to help you back to your mud-caked feet…THANKS, guys! You were a HUGE help back there!“You’re the Geomancer.” Oti shrugs as Rezalith stifles a giggle, “Didn’t want to ‘cramp your style’.”Funny. Funny guy over here!“Th-there should be a… y-yes! There!”Nestled between a few boulders wedged into the riverside sits a crack–though that’d be an overstatement, you think. Even if you could see where you were going it’d be a stretch to slip inside… and you almost do so until you remember the little gift KNODD imparted upon you!“W-wow…!” Oodeel remarks as the offending boulders bend out of the way, “G-Geomancy…”>CONTD.
>>6407326“Far simpler than teleporting through indeed…” Remarks your favorite Chytree as he gives your muddy shoulder a pat as he leads the way in!“That GOD stuff still makes you smell funny, AnTICK.” Adds Rezzie as she slips inside too! Well she smells like a 24 Hour Grease Fire, so-… Ah. She’s gone. Dang it, you really shoulda’ had that one ready to go!Greeted by a musty bouquet of earth-scented humidity, your face scrunches up with displeasure as your COOL HAT is battered by large, muddy drops from the cavern ceiling!“S-so…” Oodeel begins, her mousy voice still echoing all along the damp tunnel walls, “Th-the vault is… is protected by a hidden gate…”What, like the one you passed to slip in here? The Mox shakes her head.“N-no… O-Ouxlee d-did some research–oh, my, er… OUR friend, that is… s-she said the path is obscured by illusion magic…”“Naturally. The passphrase?” Inquires Oti with the patience of a customer in a coffee shop queue.“Oh, uh-”Hang on, you frown, why can’t we just… y’know, dispel the magic? If it’s illusioned and all..“A sound idea,” Begins the Chytree, “But breaking an illusion and ‘solving’ one are two different processes entirely. Dispelling the illusion might clear the path, but a proper passphrase will deactivate it and activate other adjacent enchantments.”“Y-yes…” Nods Oodeel, “L-like extending a tunnel or draining water in the way…”… Or activating traps? Both Oti and Oodeel nod in unison.“Yes, but brute-forcing magical barriers can lead to… complications as well.” Oti frowns. “And if we don’t run into any recently-bored tunnels or evidence of magical mischief, it’s safe to say our predecessors didn’t brute force things either.”“Th-though these vaults have a habit of r-resetting… a-after being unlocked…” Adds the Mox. “S-safety precautions…”“Why bother?” Rezzie grumbles as she kicks the back of your boot, “These clowns are ahead of us. Rip open a path for us with your powers, Anton. Chop chop!”Fun as that sounds, you don’t like the idea of triggering other traps with your brute force… Oodie, you cough, what’s the uh… she was gonna say a passphrase?“Ah, right…” The sorceress replies, eyes closed in thought, “It… was a r-riddle, I think? ‘I can be light or heavy, but never solid. A gift to earth’s children, but a bane to the squalid.’”More riddles. And here you thought you were done with em’ after the last thread’s misadventures! Coming to a halt in front of a vast rocky wall (which Rezalith wastes no time in kicking), you decide to…>GEOMANCE! You’ll make your own tunnel!>Try the RIDDLE!>Oti? Anything he can do?>Try to find ANOTHER ROUTE!>Rezzie, think you can get us through?>BIISII’S BAG!>Write-In!
>>6407327>Try the RIDDLE!I'm like 90% sure the answer to that would be a rainstorm. They can be heavy or light, but they'd never be solid. The earth loves rain, but people without shelter (the squalid) would hate it.
>>6407455Fat +1 for you brother
Trying hard to find the motivation to get through the last few updates of the past thread so i can catch up with this one
>>6407482I don't blame ya, brother--this quest is a slog... I'd know! Also probably gonna update this later on Tues so keep that shit comin
>>6407504It's not boredom or sadness or annoyance I'm not quite sure how to describe it, but it just gives that odd empty "deflated" feeling. The kind that makes you want to sigh. But it's very clearly not sadness or boredom. I'm not sure how to call it.
>>6407512... Neat! That one's going into the testimonials
>>6407512Brother what the hell are you talking about? Dark is what I read to get away from odd empty "deflated" feelings.
>>6407455>>6407480>RIDDLE ME THISGonna call the vote for this one as well as the answer anon guessed! Ran into a few computer troubles so I'm not on my main rig--update might not happen til' Tuesday while I get shit fixed... or maybe I'll just go for it on my laptop, we'll see. Writing!
Your misadventures in Trier’s Maze leave your mind and mouth malleable–so much so that Oodeel’s riddle scarcely leaves her large lips before an answer slips free from yours!‘RAINSTORM’...It’s almost automatic, your response, and as you let the word echo across the chamber, all you receive in return is an unnerving silence…AND a kick in the side! OW!“There’s no RAIN underground, AnTOOL! Get a clue!” Snarls Rezalith! B-but, you whine as you try and fail to guard your flank, it’s… y-you’re trying to answer the rid-“Two for FLINCHING!”Just before she can ready another assault, however, the cavern fills with a low, grinding rumble… one that sends your teeth a-chatter and your bones-a…a-batter? As the sound subsides, no one dares make a move–drat, you think as the silence grows downright uncomfortable, you should’ve asked how many TRIES you ha-Your thoughts are derailed when you sense something falling from above… MANY somethings!A gut-wrenching SHRIEK leaves your lips as the ceiling collapses, an-…d lands on your COOL HAT with a few harmless ‘plop’s!“Blehhh….” Rezzie groans as Oti and Oodeel shake off like magical dogs, “Water…”You’re about two seconds away from asking ‘water you talking about’ when you realize what happened… that and you’re pretty sure the demon would give you a dead arm if you tried! Probing your hat with your fingers brings you to the same conclusion everyone else shortly arrives at…“Ah…” Oti remarks with a hint of a laugh in his tone, “A ‘rainstorm’ indeed…”“N-not bad…” Oodeel adds, eyes wide with childlike delight! “F-first try!”HEH, you respond as you tip the droplets from your cap, wasn’t THAT big of a deal!“Correct, it wasn’t.” Adds Oti with the usual ire, “We’ve taken our first step, it would seem… we’d best hurry before the way closes again.”He doesn’t have to tell you twice… leading the charge through a freshly-opened passage, you can’t help but marvel a bit when you’re greeted by the sound of water trickling onto stone from above like Mother Nature’s orchestra… Hitting the stones at different pitches and rhythms, you almost want to take your time and listen for a bit… but you think twice when Rezalith ‘accidentally’ steps on your heel!“Got a deadline to meet, remember? Idiot.”Oh, NOW she cares about missions? Ducking the ensuing attempt at flicking your ear, your newly-formed path delves deeper into the caverns… and as the air grows colder and wetter, you emerge into…>A vast, damp chamber dominated by several statues and a distant mechanical drone…>A cavern split by a rushing river–you would’ve been swept away if you didn’t collapse face-first into some ruins jutting out!>A towering room with walls covered in holes large enough to stick your hand into…
>>6407732Also I just realized this picture makes Anton look like he's taking the biggest piss of his life. This was intentional probably
>>6407732>A cavern split by a rushing river–you would’ve been swept away if you didn’t collapse face-first into some ruins jutting out!
>>6407734Piss quest....>>6407732Heh. Knew I was right. Frankly I couldn't think of anything else beyond 'water' in general but of course 'water' could be solid.>A vast, damp chamber dominated by several statues and a distant mechanical drone…
I'ma check this in the morning and roll for it then if need be. See you alley cats then!
>>6407737Fehhh. >A cavern split by a rushing river–you would’ve been swept away if you didn’t collapse face-first into some ruins jutting out!Just gonna vote for this before I go to bed, even if I know we won't get an update for a sec.
>>6407732>A vast, damp chamber dominated by several statues and a distant mechanical drone…I love drones
Rolled 2 (1d2)>[1]CAVERN WITH RIVERor>[2]STATUE CHAMBERRolling and writing eventually
Statue enjoyers we're fucking BACK
Shivers take hold of your body as you’re greeted by a rush of cold, wet air emanating from above–the force behind the gales causing an unnerving rattling to ring out from the chamber ahead! As you take a few tenuous steps onto the puddle-slick stone, it’s only after a few more drops of icy condensation pitter-patter against your hat that you realize you’re still below ground. But with how the wind is blowing and the rocks around you are rattl-OW, FUCK!STUBBED TOE COUNTER: 37!Your cautious advance is thwarted by a particularly-egregious pillar in your path. One that–had you not vigorously explored with your toe and face–appears to be some kind of…… Statue? Oodie. Oti. Get a load of this!The mages descend upon your discovery like a pack of dogs on a dropped plate at Thanksgiving! Pouring over your find with intense stares and periodic ‘hmm’s, the two otherwise remain totally silent as they appraise the obstacle!S-so, you cough as Rezalith watches from your side with a bemused grin, what is it?“A statue.” Oti dryly replies. “PUU’LRII in origin.” The Chytree pauses. “... Ancient Mzz’goe’virr. Not as dated as the Nuugal, but…” A grunt leaves his unseen lips as he ushers you forward. “Here–feel the head.”O-Oti-kun…!“... Stop acting stupid.”A quick probe of the statue tells you everything you need to know: hard to say if it’s an abstract piece or the subject was wearing a helmet, but once your hand brushes over a cluster of six oblong protrusions it’s hard to argue with Oti’s assessment!Ancient Mzz’goe’virr, huh?“Indeed.” Nods the sage, “Their people once dominated the seas–an empire stretched across Zoral’s many continents–but they spread too thin. Most of the Mzz’goe’virr are the children of the Puu’lrii Diaspora. Cultural driftwood.”“They had a whole empire and lost it?” Rezalith remarks with a derisive snort. “How?”“Th-that’s still a, erm… m-mystery…” Oodeel chimes in with a nervous giggle. “S-some believe th-they..”“They unearthed something in their homeland.” Oti interjects with the usual grace. “Something that brought the whole empire to its knees… and sent its people fleeing across the land.” His glowing gaze darkens. “This occurred long before The Darkening, of course–a shame we were never able to conduct a proper autopsy.”That’s, uh… that’s bananas... The Chytree’s eyes flicker.“No. ‘PUU’LRII.”“Hm.”Sensing her chance, Rezalith takes center stage with a puzzled look on her face! Hey, you begin, something wrong?“... Statue’s magic.” She reports as she gives the offending obelisk a few cursory sniffs. “Indeed…” Oti nods, “But to what end?”>CONTD.
>>6408163“C-contamination, m-maybe?” Oodeel suggests, earning another grunt from her fellow mage. “... Or… m-maybe it’s part of the next task?”Yeesh, you HOPE not! Wandering a few steps away as your sorcerers work their magic, you get about three steps in bef-OW!!STUBBED TOE COUNTER: 38!“Does the concept of ‘caution’ not exist in your plane?” Grumbles Oti as he drifts over to your staggered form! “Contain your OAFISHNESS–there’s no telling what we might stumble int-”“W-wait a moment…!”Oodeel’s interruption snaps you all back into reality, and the ensuing survey proves what you already began to suspect: the chamber stretches about as far as a football field… that’s not what you expected, mind, but what you DID expect was its contents: standing in what you guess used to be neat, orderly rows are statues–each one’s outfit slightly different than the last!One’s helmet has a dent carved into it. Another is missing a pair of eyes on the right side. A few statues are even missing some limbs, but the vacant areas on the statue are too smooth and precise to be unintentional!A hasty account of the whole room leads you to two unnerving conclusions: first, no two statues are the same! Second: they all emit a dash of magickal energy… especially one specimen found on the far side of the chamber! Oh, and the far corner of the room is dominated by a big pond–no statues or secret tunnels, though.“Yes…” Nods Oti as you conclude your survey, “No doubt about it–this one’s contamination is far more potent…”What do you think it means, you ask as you give your chin an idle scratch, some kinda starting point, maybe? The Chytree answers with a weary sigh.“Sound logic, but who knows?” His disco ball-sized eyes fall upon your newest party member. “You. Did your associate mention anything pertaining to a room like this?”“I… s-sorry, no…” Oodeel answers with a defeated sigh! “W-we only learned about the entry riddle…”Makes sense, you shrug, if someone knew how to do all these ‘challenges’ they probably woulda’ just kept all the loot for themselves, right? Oti continues to frown.“Unless they wanted to keep it sealed… but even then they wouldn’t be sharing answers, would they?”Yea… “What are we even wasting time for?” Rezzie groans as she kicks a pebble along the muddy floor! “And don’t give me that ‘It could mess up the passages’ crap again!”Just… pause for a second, you sigh as you give the demon’s luscious hair a gentle pat, and listen. Does she hear that?Rezalith’s face scrunches up as she tunes in. Then frowns.“... No.”Exactly, you reply, earning a twinkle from the corner of Oti’s eye, if the last group bored a hole through the wall we would’ve found it, right? And if they teleported->CONTD.
>>6408165“We’d have picked up some residual magic.” Concludes the Chytree with a hint of pride in his tone. “Very astute, Anton.”So, you finish, clapping your hands together, the last group probably figured out the solution–and if they can get through the right way, well…“Then we can too, naturally!” Rezzie cackles with wide-eyed delight! “Our combined intellect–mine, mostly–dwarfs that of these measly mageling’s! Very well then… we shall pummel this puzzle…”Giving the girl’s head another pat, your efforts to avoid addressing the elephant in the room are soundly thwarted by the timid Mox!“B-but… but what even… i-is the puzzle, exactly… th-that’s the um… q-question…”Oodeel’s innocent utterance is enough to awaken ire in your ally! “H-hey, YEA! How are we supposed to solve a puzzle if we don’t even know how to start it, huh!? You’re just trying to sound cool, aren’t you, AnTOOL!? You and your ‘Nyyyerrr, erf the lahhhsssht grewwwwup’!-”“Anton may be ‘trying to sound cool’,” Begins Oti in a firm, placating tone, “But abusing him won’t get us anywhere.”Rezzie frowns. “... It’ll make ME feel better…”I-It won’t make YOU feel better! Welp, it just goes to show: if you wanna solve a puzzle, ya’ gotta figure out what it is first! Mhm, words to live by… anyways, what’s the first step here? You haven’t been crushed by a giant rock or attacked by Bog Leeches yet, so…>Cast some MAGIC on that statue with the MOST magical contamination!>Investigate the POND some more!>See if the WALLS have anything useful to add! >Try to MOVE the MOST MAGICAL STATUE!>EXAMINE the statues FURTHER!>CRITIQUE the statues–maybe the solution is ART?>Try to TALK to a STATUE!>Screw this, GEOMANCE a way out!>BIISII’S BAG!>CONTACT TOPPEL! Maybe she knows something useful!>Write-In!
>>6408166>EXAMINE the statues FURTHER!>See if the WALLS have anything useful to add!>Cast some MAGIC on that statue with the MOST magical contaminationIn this order!
>>6408166>EXAMINE the statues FURTHER!>See if the WALLS have anything useful to add!>Cast some MAGIC on that statue with the MOST magical contamination
>>6408178>>6408272>EXAMINE!>WALLS!>MAGIIIIICCCC!!!An impressive idea... let's see if it pays off for him, folks! We're gonna do TWO rolls here--one for the STATUE EXAMINATION and one for the WALLS! I'll take care of the bonuses/maluses--you just roll like hell!>ROLL 1 (STATUE EXAMINATION): +4 (+5 Oti Aid, +3 Oodeel Aid, -2 Shit's old, man, -2 Lotsa statues)>ROLL 2 (WALL EXAMINATION): +7 (+5 Oti Aid, +3 Oodeel Aid, +2 Rezzie Aid, -3 Crumbly)>Roll me 2d100! Best of 3 wins em!Will probably write the result tomorrow or tonight if I'm feeling particularly perky.
Rolled 11, 40 = 51 (2d100)Watch THIS!!!
Don't watch! Close thine eyes!!!
Rolled 99, 35 = 134 (2d100)>>6408283WATCH AND DON'T LEARN!
>>6408320I AM WATCHING INTENTLY AND I DONT KNOW FUCKING SHIT BROTHER
Rolled 96, 81 = 177 (2d100)>>6408283
>>6408318>>6408320>>6408351Holy Macaroni!>HIGHEST ROLLS: 103, 88!Yyyea, that'll... that'll do it, I think! Writing!>>6408320As the QM I am hereby ordering everyone to learn NOTHING from this anon>>6408318Now this one? You could learn a thing or two from them!
First thing’s first–the statues! You’re no expert on ancient art or anything, but the room’s stuffed with the damn things and they’re all dripping with magic, if what Oti and Oodeel said is true… clearly they’ve got some part to play!Ordering your allies to spread out and search, you begin your examination with the statue seeping with the most sorcery… It doesn’t take long for you to confirm what your mages already mentioned–that teeth-trembling sensation you get when a spell’s about to be cast? You don’t feel it when you press your cheek against the statue, but you DO feel a tingling–an itch, you’d say–one that drops to next to nothing when you try the same maneuver on the statues in your periphery!Okay, you think as you give your chin a good scratch, they’re magical. Big whoop–everything in this dumb quest is! What else is this thing hiding? Stooping low to really check this art out, you try not to react when Oti and Rezalith’s eyes flit over to you with bemusement etched into their faces. As your hands explore the stone-carved soldier’s armor and accessories, you begin to notice something…… Intriguing.“Well?” Oti inquires as he drifts over with a strangely neutral tone in his voice, “Anything?”Yea, you nod as you rise from the ground, these statues–they can move!“Eh?” Rezzie remarks as she gives one of them a poke, “Well yea, if you’re tough enough-”No, you frown, they… o-on their own! Like… look, just watch! Dropping back into a crouch, you make a show of knocking your knuckles against the statue’s joints. It’s subtle, you report, but if you reach between the armor you can feel them–grooves… for MOVING!“That’d explain the wall…” Frowns Oti as Oodeel scurries over with a delighted grin!“Mhm! Th-the wall… it… it’s got INSTRUCTIONS!”You’re not exactly thrilled about your achievement being overshadowed, but you leave it be for now. Instructions?“Mhm!” The Mox answers with an emphatic nod! “I… I only deciphered the b-basics, but… but it said something about ‘the magic dancing… be not distracted… strike from within… strike true the sorcerer lords…’”You frown. Did they not have Phonics back then or something?“My… my PUU’LRII i-is a little r-rusty… s-sorry…”“Apology not accepted.”Quiet, Rezzie. So what, there’s some kind of dance and-“And you’re expected to ‘strike from within’...” Oti interrupts as his glowing gaze falls upon the square of statues. “And ‘strike true the sorcerer lords…’”Huh. Does he think this guy’s the first lord, you ask as you give your examinee a few taps!>CONTD.
>>6408623“If we operate under the knowledge that he’s exuding the most magickal energy then yes…” The mage answers with a scowl in his voice. “But I’m more concerned about the other lord.”Right, you agree as you cast your gaze across the soldier statues, there… weren't any others that felt as magical as this one, were there? The sorcerer silently shakes his head.“Considering the rest of the bunch boast a magical pulse, however faint, I’d assume the second lord shall make themself known during… the trial.”You blink at the last words. Trial?“Test. Task. The wall mentioned a ‘dance’, and if your theory about movement is correct-”The realization hits you like a bag of potatoes to the face! S-so wait… will these guys be MOVING, y’think!? A-and you’ll have to find-“The other lord? I presume so.” Oti answers in a bemused tone!“S-strike from w-within…” Repeats the big-eyed witch as she slinks over like a frightened dog, “S-so I believe i-it’ll take place... W-within… inside…”Inside the group… you’d prefer if it wasn’t so literal, but you know better than to assume anything would be easy! So, you frown, we have an idea for how to do this, so what, do we just blast this jerk with magic, o-“STOP!”You don’t often hear Oti raise his voice–he’s abusive enough as-is–but the word launching from his lips freezes you in place like the rest of the statues… your hand seconds away from chucking some magic at Lord #1!Y-yes, Oti, you ask behind a weak smile!“That may trigger the trial.”Yea, you answer in a less-friendly tone, that’s the point, isn’t it? The Chytree’s frown deepens. “Attend well to the room’s aroma. What do you smell?”What DO you smell? Damp earth, for one… some funky, fungal scent from the pond… and ozone. Faint, but the odor follows you everywhere…“Movement may not be the only trick up these statue’s sleeves…” He warns as Rezzie casts a fresh glare at the one closest to her. “Just… don’t start anything we aren’t ready for, yes?”Good thinking! Say, could he keep a lookout for Lord #2 when it starts? That’s kind of their thing, right? Chytree?The sorcerer’s eyes sink a bit. “... Yes, that is ‘kind of our thing’. I’ll do my best.”“I-I’ll help too!” Oodeel declares with a resolute nod!“I’ll stay above just in case.” Rezzie adds, flapping her wings much to Oodeel’s excitement. “Be easier to track what to do and not do when you die horribly.”Thanks, you nod, y-wait, wha?Anything you wanna do before starting the show?>NOPE! Let’s BEGIN!>Cast some MAGIC on the statue from far away!>Investigate the POND some more!>Try to MOVE the MOST MAGICAL STATUE!>CRITIQUE the statues–maybe the solution is ART?>Try to TALK to a STATUE!>Screw this, GEOMANCE a way out!>BIISII’S BAG!>CONTACT TOPPEL! Maybe she knows something useful!>Write-In!
>>6408625>NOPE! Let’s BEGIN!Ain't nothin' to it but to do it, that's what Anton always says, right? Maybe I have him mixed up with some other clown. Anyways! Half past trial'o'clock!
>>6408625>BIISII’S BAG!>THEN, begin the trialFUCK IT LET'S BALL
>>6408625>Investigate the POND some more!
Rolled 3 (1d3)>>6408672>>6408678>>6408819RANDOR STRIKES AGAIN!!!!>[1]: JUST START>[2]: USE BIISII'S BAG AND THEN START>[3]: WAIT WHAT ABOUT THAT POND DUDEWill write whichever is rolled!
Having gathered several pieces of the puzzle, your mind wanders to the last of the chamber’s features: a pool of precipitation collecting in the corner of the room–its presence only made known by the gentle trickle of countless tiny streams spidering across the chamber like tributaries feeding into a great lake!Well that and you nearly stumbled in while you were casing the joint, and as the sting of cold seeps through your damp boots an idea slips into your head…“M-mister Anton? S-sir?” Oodeel asks as she creeps up to your side like a dog spotting a cheeseburger in your hand, “Are you… okay?”‘Strike from within’... does it mean the block of statues, or…!You don’t even give her a response as you rush into the pond with renewed vigor in your step! The frigid water stings your feet and ankles as it seeps into your shoes, but it doesn’t bother you–you’ve got an idea and you’-OOOF!Something catches your foot in the midst of your frantic wading–waterlogged fabric, you wager, and lots of it! The trap snags you splendidly, and with a panicked yelp you tumble into the pool with an unceremonious SPLASH!“Smooth, idiot.”You opt to ignore the barb given that Rezalith’s the only one that flew over to help you out. Spitting out some water and sending a weak ‘thanks’ her way, your mind zeroes back in on the underwater obstacle… but Oodeel beats you to the punch! Wading to where you just were, the Mox Magess stoops low to investigate, but whatever her claws discover sends a jolt of horror through her features!“W-wha…!”A gut-wrenching shriek echoes across the chamber long before you can ask what she found, but the way Oodeel crab-walks backwards out of the pond with pure terror etched into her features tells you half of the story!Luckily for you all, Oti’s quick to take the lead, and as you and Rezalith land on the shore, you feel a pit grow in your chest as the Chytree turns to confirm what Oodeel helped you suspect:“A body,” He declares in a tone more solemn than usual, “Difficult to determine whose.”You can determine one thing, you think as the Mox falls into a sobbing fit, whoever it is was probably one of her friends…By the time you pull the corpse from the pond, Oodeel’s breathing has slowed, but not by much. Eyes wide in horror, the girl can only watch as Oti conducts a quick autopsy.“Peculiar.” He remarks as he circles the corpse like a vulture, “And troubling.”Yea, you frown, finding a body will do that! A body of a friend, you think as your eyes hop between the Chytree and the still-trembling Mox.“This corpse,” Oti continues in a measured tone, “Exhibits acid burns. Enough to corrode most of the victim’s features.”That’d explain why you didn’t feel it when you tripped, you ponder as you give Oodeel’s shoulder a gentle pat. She doesn’t shy away from the contact.>CONTD.
>>6409005“However,” Sighs the Chytree, “Some of the burns present… differently. Heat-induced, from both the high and low ends of the spectrum.”So what, you frown, is he saying this person got, y’know… ‘The Works’? Oti nods.“Indeed. Flames. Frost. If I was a betting man I’d wager the acid was what-” Sensing the Mox girl’s gaze, the Chytree cuts his diagnosis short with a curt cough. “... her friend failed the trial.”“Sure, or someone killed ‘em.” Scoffs Rezzie as she watches from afar. “You MORTALS tend to do that, y’know.”Since when is she IMMORTAL? Rezalith’s suggestion only earns a weary sigh from the sorcerer. “... Anton, please inform the demon why her assessment is incorrect, would you?”H-huh? W-well, uh… you’re no expert, you shrug, but… >Roll me 1d100-1 (+2 Tripped on the body, +3 Examined statues and wall, +2 Oti’s Diagnosis, +3 Rezzie tends to be an idiot, -7 You weren’t here for it…, -2 Who are Oodeel’s pals anyways?, -2 Missing Employer…) to come up with a valid reason! BEST OF 3! OR>WRITE-IN YOUR GUESS!
Rolled 93 - 1 (1d100 - 1)>>6409006Throwing in my vote for a guess anyways, just in cas this roll fails the multiple sources of damage would be very overkill for someone who wanted to just KILL someone. Rezzie, if you just wanted someone dead, you'd burn them or slice their throat off.Wouldn't a murderer just get to the point? It's a lot for one person to do for one body.
>>6409070Good start! Keep rolling and/or guessing, folks! Sorry if the instructions were unclear!
Rolled 5 - 1 (1d100 - 1)It's been eight hours and no one else is rolling. Mind if I just crank out the remaining dice?
Rolled 35 - 1 (1d100 - 1)And the last one, for good measure.
>>6409070>>6409185>>6409186Fine by me, yep!>HIGHEST ROLL: 92!Writing! This miiiight be a short one
Where do you even start? The overkill, for one–even if someone was conspiring to kill Oodie’s friend, you explain as you give the girl in question’s shoulder another pat, what would be the point of using so many different spells?“Isn’t it obvious? Oh right, I’m talking to AnTWIT. Of course it’s not!” Scoffs the satanthinge with a flick of her tail! “They fought. They’re mages. Mages use SPELLS, remember? Clearly the blows just added up!”Mmm, you don’t think so! Oti, you continue as you turn your attention to your magical muchacho, how many spells does he know?“Plenty.”But most of the time he uses ICE magic, right? And Toppel enhances things… and Oodie here said she focused on-“Restoration, what’s your point!?” Rezzie interjects with a haughty grin! “Betcha’ didn’t think I was paying attention back then either, didja?”Your point is, you continue, that Rezzie only uses HELLFIRE too! And why? Because one spell is more than enough–why would a corpse have freezer burns, heat burns, and acid burns when one good hit oughta’ do the trick? Or better yet, you shrug, why not just slit their throat when they aren’t looking?“They could’ve!” Rezzie counters with a defiant stomp! “You just can’t see their throat when it’s all burned up like that! And look where you found the body! Clearly someone tried to hide the evidence! It’s as simple as that!”IS it, though? Eager to move on from the details so as not to disappoint Oodeel for much longer, you go for the coupe de grace! Rezalith, you begin as cool composure creeps into your tone, if they had fire and acid magic like you said, then…All eyes fall upon you… even the chamber itself seems to hold its collective breath!“T-then…?” Rezzie mutters, confidence crumbling!THEN WHY DIDN’T THEY JUST BURN AWAY THE BODY?!https://youtu.be/lAWdWk6a2ggThe hellthing visibly contorts at your question with a dramatic “GCKH!”Taking her stunned silence as permission to continue, you take the opportunity to get to the root of your theory! Yes, you nod as you pace around the room, why didn’t the body burn completely? Surely any spell worth its salt could take care of a measly body, right?“Indeed…” Oti nods, “An Arcane Assassin is quite an adversary…”“B-but…” Oodeel mutters as she tries to pry her gaze from the pond, “Then why were they… i-in…” In the pond? Where else would you go if you were on fire? That’s what they were thinking, at least, but…“But?” Rezzie asks, wringing her claws!Rapping your knuckles against a nearby statue, you begin your journey over to the pond… and by the time you arrive a minute later, the whole gang gets the proverbial picture!“So…” Oodeel whispers as she wipes the remaining tears from her eyes, “They… they didn’t make it in time…”>CONTD.
>>6409231And that was from the edge of the statue garden, you conclude with a nod. Imagine trying to find your way out from within! “Impressive, Anton,” Answers Oti with a nod, “But a damaged corpse leaves us with little to profit from…”Doesn’t it? You’ve learned something valuable here, you reply with a wry grin! “Wh-which is?” The Mox asks, cocking her big head to the side!The trial, you conclude, involves lots of dangerous magic–those burns? You’re betting they came from those!Oti follows your gaze to the statues with a fresh frown. “... It would certainly complicate things, yes…”Oodie, you begin as you stoop back down to the witch’s level to give her a reassuring smile, could she… stand by with some magic? Just in case you… y’know…The Mox answers with a firm nod! “I’ll… I’ll d-do my best! We still need to track down the rest of my friends!”Damn right you do! Steadying yourself with a fresh breath, you take position back at the ‘starting point’ in the middle of the statues and conjure up a handful of EARTHEN FORCE... everyone ready?Oti nods, Oodeel chants, and Rezalith takes to the skies! You dunno what’s next, but you know one thing: you’re not bowing out without a fight!>Roll me 1d100+2 (+3 Swift Footwork, +2 LIMBOOO, +5 Well-Prepared, -4 Dance Trial, -4 Many Statues!) to get things started! Best of 3!
Rolled 54 + 2 (1d100 + 2)>>6409233ANTON WINS YET AGAIN. WE MIGHT DIE SOON BUT HEY WE'RE COOL WE'RE FROSTY
Rolled 8 + 2 (1d100 + 2)>>6409233
Rolled 93 + 2 (1d100 + 2)>>6409233>>6409290Rerolling
>>6409256>>6409290>>6409406>HIGHEST ROLL: 95!Not bad, not bad! Writing in a bit!>>6409256REZZIErunts got destroyed yea
The chamber stands in silent stillness as the burst of magic leaves your hand and washes over the first–and hopefully second-to-last–statue ‘Lord’! As the room and its few inhabitants (you included) collectively hold their breath, you feel a faint tingle at your feet as the air fills with the sound of grinding stone!They emerge from the gloom like fireflies–statue eyes glowing with fresh magical energy–and an old Merry-Go-Round starting up for the first time in decades, their owners begin to move… “D A N C E…” booms a crackly voice from the dark, crusty depths of the statue you ensorcelled, “C O M M E N C E.”“What did it say!?” Oti shouts from outside the perimeter! The incredulous look you send his way dies mid-transit–right, you think as the air thickens with the tingle of magic, you can understand all languages! Some kinda side-effect of your botched summoning, Morook said, but that was ages ag-“L-LOOK OUT!!!”Both Rezzie and Oodeel have the same idea, and great timing to boot! The words scarcely leave both of their lips before two adjacent statues twirl in place–their hands crackling with spells about to be, well, SPELLED!Backing away leaves you right where you started in no small part thanks to the OTHER statues surrounding you! Smacked upside the head by a well-placed stone palm, you use the opportunity to stumble to your knees just in time to dodge the spinning statue’s sorceries!Flame and frost collide just over your head, but there’s no time to rest! A heavy stone foot stomps itself into a recess in the floor between your legs, and with the grace of a drunken line dancer the Lord that started it all asserts itself into where you were just standing! He’s not alone, either–moving to a silent beat, the rest of the statues trade spaces with military efficiency as their hands erupt with nigh-constant magical attacks!“Not good!” Oti mutters as Rezalith is flung away from the square by an unseen barrier, “If he moves too slow he’ll be crushed…”“B-but if he doesn’t watch h-his step, he’ll be t-torched!” Oodeel whines with despair! “Th-this test… y-you’d have to somehow blend CONSTANT MOVEMENT with INCREDIBLE DEXTERITY and TIMING to-”Your allies gasp as the statues close in, blocking your eyes from their view! “A-ANTON!” Sputters Rezzie with alarming amounts of alarm, “NOOO!”“W-wait…” Heeding Oti’s instructions pays off–for as the statues continue their deadly dance, you emerge from below their magical ministrations with a smug, grinning face PERPENDICULAR to that of the statues!“W-wait a second…” Oti remarks as Rezalith and Oodeel sigh with relief, “That’s… It’s…”That’s RIGHT, you scoff as you slip through the ambling art pieces with a cat’s grace, it’s time…… to LIMBO!>CONTD.
>>6409468https://youtu.be/7YjZA-ftQBYIt’s not easy at first, dodging the statues… to the uninitiated their movements seem spastic–random, even–but once you get the rhythm down, you’re ducking and weaving through the dancers with only a few singed hairs!OTI, you shout as your friends watch with a mixture of panic and delight, th-the next Lord!“RIGHT!” Skirting around the perimeter to avoid the arcane barrier formed by the beginning of the trial, the Chytree’s eyes narrow in concentration as he tries to pluck your target’s whereabouts from the mass of dancers!“THERE!” He reports, groaning in frustration as the wisp of magic he fired to direct you bounces off the barrier, “Th-that one! Four rows down, two columns over!”… okay, you sheepishly sputter as you LIMBOOO beneath two statue’s-worth of acid, by rows does he mean, like, lengthwise, or-“Four places ahead of you, six to your right!”Okay, bet!A few droplets of acid sting your cheek as you barely manage to slip between two more statues–no room for error now, you reason, moving your foot aside just in time to keep it from getting stomped, gotta get that Lord!LIMBO LOWER!!!>Roll me one more 1d100+7 (+3 Swift Footwork, +2 LIMBOOO, +5 Well-Prepared, +3 Oti Guidance, -2 Dance Trial (Got The Rhythm Down), -4 Many Statues) to bring it home! Best of 3!
Rolled 19 + 7 (1d100 + 7)>>6409469
Rolled 18 + 7 (1d100 + 7)>>6409469REZZIERUNTS are DOOMED. VOLKA VISCOUNTS? TT TYRANTS? WHERE ARE YOU?
Rolled 47 + 7 (1d100 + 7)>>6409469WOOOOOAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAHBUDDDDYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYY
>>6409475>>6409479>>6409505>HIGHEST ROLL: 54!Just scraped by! Writinggggg!
Just a few spaces away, you think as you slip under a pair of spinning, spelling statues, just a few more and you’re golden, baby! If only! As you move to the trial’s torturous tempo a realization slips into your skull: these statues… they’re not just moving around…!“They’re closing in!” Shouts Oti from the sidelines, stealing the thought right out of your head! “MOVE!”Better late than never! Letting a pair of statues stomp by ahead of you, you waste no time in slipping into the space behind them just as a few more form a box around where you just fled! Though your lungs burn from exertion and inhaling slivers of flame, frost, and acid, you rely on your ears as you surge forward through the gargoylish gauntlet!The trial knows what it’s doing, however, and just when you think you’re one step ahead, the statues reveal their two step lead! Moving with renewed rhythm, the magic-spewing statues make to block you off from their Lord in a perilous pincer-strike!Caution, it would seem, has no place on the dance floor… and with a resigned groan you throw safety to the wind and scamper towards your target before dropping into a slide as the golemesque guards fill your path with magic!Your face burns as you slip beneath the sorcerous salvo, but the move pays off–rising to your feet in front of the Lord, you gather up a fresh handful of magic and shove it in their stony face! For a moment, the whole production grinds to a halt: eyes flicker, the march stops…… before resuming even FASTER than before! H-how the HELL is some normal jerk supposed to do this!?“ANTON!” Oti barks from across the deadly dance floor, “BACK TO THE BEGINNING! HURRY!”He doesn’t need to tell you twice–even as a novice you can feel it: a powerful pulse of arcane energy rising from a Lord looming on the other side of the sea of statues! As you move to meet him, however, his guards beat you to the punch and box you into a kill corner!“G-get out of there!!!” Oodeel whines as Rezzie watches from above in abject panic! The situation’s grim, that’s for sure… but what do you do when a magic trick fails?… you IMPROVISE!Ducking below a double-lariat, you scamper onto the nearest statue and leap for your target like a squirrel onto a bird feeder! It’s an impressive idea–one that puts awe into all of your allie’s expressions–but it’s swiftly replaced by looks of disdain when gravity pulls you back towards Earth!With one last grunt, you hurl a hunk of magic at your target! Slamming onto the floor amidst a forest of statue feet with the grace of a fallen grocery bag, all you can do is cover your face with your hands as several prepare to pulp you!But the pulping never comes…>CONTD.
>>6409516Peeking through your fingers, you watch in confusion as your deadly dance partners merely… stop. It’s only after Rezzie swoops in to scoop you up with a delighted cackle that you realize you’ve won… and as the fiend flies you around for a few victory laps, a dull grinding in the far wall signals the opening of another passage!“Hm.” Oti remarks as you land next to him and Oodeel, “Impressive work.”… You’re sensing a ‘but’ somewhere in there.“Well,” The Chytree sighs as he casts a glance towards the ‘dance floor’, “I just realized how simple it would’ve been to just… cast a spell at the offending ‘Lord’. With the right mage it could’ve been done in seconds, reall-”Stop, you groan as you lean against Rezalith’s diminutive form to catch your breath, just… whatever…“Indeed.” Nods the mage as he gives your shoulder a light pat, “We succeeded–that’s what matters.”Damn… right… you did…Still weary from your impromptu dance number, you keep up the pace as the newly-opened exit snakes deeper into the ground… and just when you consider taking a breather, you hear it–Spells. Magic. Sorcery. Witchcraft! Whatever you wanna call it, it’s just down the way… and as you and your pals rush to ascertain its origin, another voice echoes along the passage!“No… nononoNO….”To say it fills you with confidence would be a lie. Even worse, Oodeel’s already-large eyes widen at the sound of the voice!“A-AIIDO!?”Scampering after the sorceress leads you into another large room–one far more oblong than the last, from the looks of it, and smack-dab in the center on his knees sits a Durher with fresh panic in his amber-colored eyes!“Ouxlee…” He whimpers, barely aware of your approach, “I… I’m..!”“Aiido…” Repeats your prisoner, prompting the Durher to straighten up in shock, “W-what… what happened?”His eyes flit between hers, yours, and the spot in front of him. Wild, fearful eyes… ones that give way to…… Excitement?“O-Oodeel!” He sputters as he stumbles into wrapping the girl in a hug, “Oh thank BIISII you’re safe!”“Y-yes!” She murmurs, a bit shocked, but not scandalized by the contact, “A-and… and I brought some friends who-”“Friends?” He repeats hastily, “O-oh, yes! Yes, friends! Excellent, excellent, we’ll need some!”Clearing his dry throat with unusual speed, the Durher turns your way with a toothy smile! “Aiido Mounos at your service, friends! Since you’re here with my good friend Oodeel I’m sure you’re already aware of what’s at stake?”“We are,” Oti nods with a wary glimmer in his eye, “Which is why your warm greeting, while appreciated, is unexpected…”>CONTD.
>>6409519Aiido answers with a nervous laugh. “What? Unexpected? Wh-what in Zoral would make you think th-You’re a pack of strangers, you interject, isn’t he worried you’re about to swoop in on his loot?“Aiido…” Oodeel mutters in a labored tone, almost as if she was being restrained, “W-where’s Ouxlee?”“Accident.” The Durher mutters with wild eyes, “She.. they… this lock–a sacrifice. Needs a sacrifice…” His words leave his lips stunted. Panicked. “The last lock. Last lock. Needs a sacrifice. Ouxlee wouldn’t… crushed herself into paste… accidental. Her accident. It was an accident…”Rezalith takes a step forward, but you step ahead of her. Look, Aiido, you begin in a placating tone, you’re-“Wasting time. Needs a sacrifice, no way around it…” He stammers as Oodeel squirms at his side… does he have a weapon? “A choice before–difficult… difficult… b-but now? J-just one! Just one of you new friends and… a-and we all get what we deserve!”“Anton.” Oti hisses through… d-do Chytree have teeth? Wait, no, it’s telepathy! Man, you’re tripping today, haha! “Do you feel that?”You only need a moment to sense what he’s speaking about–buzzing in your teeth: the usual sign of a spell forming… and you can feel it all around you like static electricity…“Sigils. Exploding variety.” The Chytree intones as the demented Durher begins muttering to his ally. “Careful.”Oodeel appears to be at an impasse. If she wants to sacrifice you she doesn’t say anything, but the air grows tenser by the moment… better tread cautiously…What do?>Tell Aiido to let Oodeel go!>Inform him of the plan--put it on hold! There’s a siege about to occur!>Negotiate: What would he want to let this all go?>Ultimatum: Give up! No one else needs to die!>Probe: what happened with Ouxlee and the other one in the last room?>His employer–who is it and what’s their angle?>The Vault… is what’s inside worth this?>VENTRILOQUISM: S-someone’s behind him!>GEOMANCY: ROCK his world!>OTI: Any ideas?>REZZIE: You’re fast, right?>BIISII’S BAG: Add some CHAOS to this fire!>Write-In!
>>6409520>VENTRILOQUISM: S-someone’s behind him!DISTRACTION>REZZIE: You’re fast, right?ACTION.KILL KILL KILL KILL KILL KILL
>>6409636>VENTRILOQUISM!>REZZIE!Go gettem, girl!>ROLL ME 2d100 for your VENTRILOQUISM ARTE and REZZIE'S.... R-REZZIETUDE! BEST OF 3! Bonuses calculated below:>ROLL 1 (VENTRILOQUISM): +2 (+3 All The World's a Stage, +2 Paranoid Aiido, +2 Favorable Beginnings, -5 Paranoid Aiido)>ROLL 2 (REZZIE): +3 (+5 Demon Power, +2 Favorable Beginnings, -4 Mage Shield)
Rolled 81, 57 = 138 (2d100)I have watched, but what have I learned?
Rolled 96, 41 = 137 (2d100)>>6409805
Rolled 11, 32 = 43 (2d100)>>6409805YES..........
>>6409806>>6409840>>6409856>HIGHEST ROLLS: 98 N' 60!>>6409806You have learned how to roll a damn fine second roll, apparently! Our gal Rezzie ain't gonna lose any cred today, it seems! Writing!
Maybe you’re just becoming jaded to this kind of thing, but interactions like these? They rarely go well! Though that might be the threat of being blown into kibble talking… fortunately for you–and unfortunately for your would-be executioner–you’ve gotten well-acquainted for readying yourself for negotiations like this… and by the time Oti’s warning hits your midbrain your mouth is already stiff as a wad of gum in a blizzard!As for your throat, well…Aiido’s eyes twitch in silent desperation as Oodeel stands at his side with confusion etched into her features–whatever’s going on here, you reason, is not the normal bill of fare… and just when things couldn’t get any more tense…hey im the vault king an the sacrifice worked now im gonna open up here goes lookit meAiido’s head would’ve spun off if it wasn’t attached to his neck! Whipping around like a cat hearing a vacuum cleaner, the manic mage gives you the chance you need!Well, not you, exactly… as your eyes flit over to Rezzies and a sharp hiss leaves your lips, your fiendish friend leaps–quite literally–into action! Rushing the wizard with frankly terrifying speed, Aiido is only able to let out a confused yelp as the demon crashes into–and subsequently through--his magical barrier!“W-WAIT!!!” Oodeel shrieks as her eyes nearly leap from her skull, “NO!”Too late. Flailing and screaming like a rabbit in a hawk’s talons, Aiido barely manages to mutter the beginning of a spell before his infernal assailant brings him crashing into the vault’s final door with a sickening CRUNCH.The chamber falls silent once more, save for a faint dripping from the mage’s corpse barely registering over Rezalith’s low, heavy breaths. As she moves to enjoy her treat, however, something grabs her claw from behind!“A-AIIDO!!!” Oodeel shrieks, the word barely escaping through panicked sobs, “Y-YOU… YOU KI-YOU KILLED H-HIM!”Whatever snarky answer Rezzie had ready dies as the two lock eyes–Oodeel’s drowned in fresh, heavy tears, Rezalith’s wide in stupefied shock.“But-”“YOU. KILLED. MY. FRIEND!” The Mox wails as the sound of her soft fists pounding against Rezalith’s side echo about the chamber, “H-HE… Y-YOU…!”Whether it’s the sudden confrontation or the ‘F’ Word is up for debate, but whatever the cause, Rezalith merely stands over her fresh kill in stunned silence. Justified or not, Oodeel’s reaction was something she didn’t expect at all.“And he would’ve killed us.” Oti snaps as you feel the magical sigils around you fade into the aether, “Like he killed your other friend.”“Y-you’re WRONG!” Sobs the Mox as her face scrunches up with fresh pain, “He w-wouldn’t… he was always s-so… it… it just… SLAUGHTERED him…!”>CONTD.
>>6409880Words fail you. Could Rezzie have shown more restraint? Probably, but who knows what might’ve happened if she pulled her punches? Whether Aiido was scared, coerced, or simply opportunistic you’ll never know, but reasonable or not, the Durher is dead.All that remains is a sealed vault, a mysterious employer, and a sad, sad Mox.What’s next?>Side with Rezzie. She made the right call.>Critique Rezzie–she couldn’t have knocked him out?!>Examine the vault–is it still secure?>Just leave–the problem is solved, more or less.>Call Toppel–any news on the employer?>Placate Oodeel. >Tell Oodeel to leave–it’s over now.>GEOMANCE some more cover for the vault!>Ask Oti for advice.>Write-In!
>>6409882>Side with Rezzie. She made the right call.Buddy, he was about to ritually sacrifice us in order to get rich. I don't really care if we could've done it nonlethally.If you wave a loaded gun at someone, you shouldn't be shocked when someone shoots back at you.
>>6409882>Side with Rezzie. She made the right call.>Call Toppel–any news on the employer?I am leaning towards Just Leave, but wouldn't wanna bail if it seems like the masterminds behind this expedition are gonna throw more rubes at it
>>6409882>Side with Rezzie. She made the right call.
>>6409888>>6409899>SIDE WITH REZ-DAWG>>6409891>SIDE WITH REZ-DAWG>AND ALSO CALL TOPPEL ABOUT THE EMPLOYER EEEEEKWriting!
>>6410003Actually, sorry all, thought I could write this part today, but it might have to wait til' Sunday. Did a lot of errands today and they're catching up with me. While we wait, though, got a question for ya. I know calling Toppel only got one vote, but should I include it in the next update?>YES! INCLUDE THAT!>NO! WHAT ARE YOU TALKING ABOUT, YOU WORM?Seeya tomorrow, most likely. Sorry for the bait-n-switch!
>>6410046>YESI see no reason why not!
>>6410046Sure
The whole gig’s a mess, to say the least: a girl lost her whole ‘family’ chasing some ancient boondoggle, and that last spatter of blood is–semantics aside–on your hands!Nevertheless, in the moments that follow you find yourself standing next to Rezalith with your hand on her trembling shoulder.For what it’s worth, you begin in a solemn voice, you’re… sorry. For how everything turned out. The Mox sends an incredulous glance your way. “‘S-Sorry’?” She sobs, eyes widening as a deluge of tears pour down her face, “A-all… all of my friends… a-are DEAD... a-and you’re… You’re SORR-”YEA, you snarl, bringing the girl’s retort to a screeching halt, you’re SORRY! You came here to help, not get sacrificed, and friend or not, if she’d come here on her own he’d be sacrificing her instead! Rezalith here saved all of us!Oodeel shakes her head. “N-no, they-”What was he holding her in place with, hmm? Friendship? The Mox doesn’t respond. Abandoning the argument with a resigned sigh, you give Rezzie another appreciative pat before turning your attention over to Oti. Think we can reach Toppel from here? The Chytree shrugs.“We’re not that deep. Fire away.”You scarcely manage to retrieve your COMMUNICATOR from your pocket before it blares to life with a grating, frantic voice!“OTI! OTI, COME IN!!!”Toppel. Sorry, you reply with a touch of ‘tude in your tone, it’s just Anton here…“Oh. Right. Whatever!” She replies through a burst of crackly static! “L-listen: Obber and I tracked the–no, you can’t say ‘hi’, you simpering idiot, I’m–ugh. Obber says ‘hi’.”Sup, dude.“Click.”“A-anywho, we tracked the residual magic from the Hedge Mage’s camp–totally torn up, might I add–and our mysterious Collector? They’re teleporting. A LOT!”“Trying not to be followed…” Muses Oti. “Prudent for them, irksome for us...””Riiight? Hi, Otes!” The Chytree shifts awkwardly.“... Hi.”That’s a start, you reply as you avert your eyes from Oodeel’s direction, but did they dig up anything else?“That’s the strange part! I believe we’ve located a hideout, but, well…” Toppel explains with uncertainty creeping into her tone, “It’s… barren. These wards are impressive, but we can’t sniff out anything–nothing to suggest an allegiance, at leas-huh!? Obber, what’s the mat-”A burst of magic crackles through the communicator followed by a low, growling voice… then a scuffle!“T-two mages!” Toppel exclaims, “W-wearing hoods! Just mentioned ‘warning’! Be carefu-”Oti’s on the move long before the communication fizzles out! “Your camp.” He snaps as he glides over to Oodeel, “Where is it?”>CONTD.
>>6410354The Mox merely sobs–until Oti lifts her into the air with a white-hot glow in his gaze! “NOW!”Oti, you begin as Oodeel relents in a burst of magic, what are-“They’ll require aid,” He mutters curtly, “Watch the Vault. I’ll bring them here.”The chamber is bathed in fresh silence once the Chytree poofs away… but the quiet is short-lived. That was quick, you remark at the sound of a fresh teleport, so what’s the deal with tho-“Anton Peas…”The familiar voice leads your eyes to the center of the chamber revealing…… Well, nothing, really! Wait, Toppel mentioned hoods…“We finally meet.” Purrs the interloper as the air around them crackles with arcane energy, “Officially, that is…”Rezalith doesn’t waste any time! Hurling herself at the newcomer, the fiend’s flight path bends as a pained groan leaves her lips! “Nghhh… stings!” She snarls! “Faith is a powerful shield indeed,” The conjurer continues as they float in the center of the room like a menacing balloon, “When one serves the highest of all powers…”“Y-you…” Oodeel mutters, still huddled in the corner, “Y-you’re… th-them! The C-Collector!!”“Correct.” Answers the arcanist, “And despite several setbacks, you managed to unlock The Vault. Bravo indeed…” They conclude with a golf clap. “It would appear I didn’t need to cast that GEASS on your friend at all.”“G-GEASS!? He’s… you put Aiido-”“Under my spell, yes.” Shrugs the sorcerer. “And why wouldn’t he accept? ‘Unlock The Vault, retire early’. I was ready to pay him for his services…”Listen, asshole, you interject with fresh magic glowing in your palms, they're acting awfully familiar for someone you don’t remember! Who are they!? What do they want with the Vault?A low laugh leaves the newcomer’s unseen lips. “Oh, it’s not what I want… It's what my Master wants. I am but their humble servant–an insignificant worm who would see this world return to its roots-”It’s at that moment you feel something squirming in your pocket like a hamburger-sized spider… but by the time you fish it out you already know who this jerk is! The androgynous voice, the vague, condescending answers, the mention of worms…Let me guess, you growl as you point the offending item in their direction, they’re a servant of that ASSCLOWN LORD LARIUS, aren’t they!?Even with a hood you can tell the sorcerer is shocked–that SEVERED MAGE HAND you stole from him during your scrap in FELLICK’S OFFICE is trembling like crazy!AREN’T THEY!?“N-no…”C’mon, dude, you groan as you wave his severed hand around like a feather duster, you carved their hand off in your last fight! They’re a member of that dipshit commune–THE CULT OF THE BURROWER! Don’t try to wriggle outta’ this!>CONTD.
>>6410356“... No… you didn't… you didn’t know...”Jesus Christ… Pocketing the hand with a dismissive sigh, your eyes flit over to the Vault door. So that’s their plan, huh? Contract some nobodies to unlock an ancient vault, then slip in and pilfer all the goodies?“You know NOTHING of our-err, MY machinations!” You don’t NEED to know, prick! The Vault’s still closed! Take a peek! Turning to face the still very much LOCKED vault with a triumphant laugh, you meet the cultist’s frustrated groan with a sigh!Too bad, you shrug, guess they’re not getting in! LARIUS is gonna be maaaa-Just before the last word can leave your lips, you hear something slump to the ground by the vault entrance–Aiido’s corpse! Well, you think with a cough, if his death was enough of a sacrifice the door would be open by n-Just like that, the chamber erupts in a low, booming voice!”A C C E P T A B L E…”As the voice fades, the room starts to quake, and on the far side of the chamber comes the grinding of stone moving against stone!“Well, WELL!” Croons the Cultist as the ancient vault door slowly recedes into the walls, “It would appear I DON’T need to sacrifice you after all! But blood begets blood, Anton Peas… and you’ve been meddling in ou-err, MY affairs for long enough! I’m afraid your adventuring days… are OVER!”https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m7jfuaD-iDEThis freak’s a SUMMONER, you remember that much! Sure enough, the moment their threat lands, the floor hums with freshly-cast magic… better get ready for whatever’s on the way! What do!?>GEOMANCY! They’re flying, but you can still get ‘em!>Whittle them down with some HELLFIRE! Let’s see a shield block that!>DISPEL MAGIC! You can probably stop one of his summons!>Tag-Team with REZZIE! Have her fly you in close!>MAGIC SHIELD–bait an attack and bat it back at them!>BIISII’S BAG! CHAOOOSSSSS>Write-In!
>>6410357>BIISII’S BAG! CHAOOOSSSSSI don't want the cult knowing about our geomancy just yet, bets keep some things in reserve until we need them
>>6410357>Whittle them down with some HELLFIRE! Let’s see a shield block that!I'd like to aim high, and signal for Rezzie to lunge in low, so if the mage dodges down its easier for Rez-dawg to grab those knobby toothpick nerd ankles for a ground & pound.
>>6410357>Whittle them down with some HELLFIRE! Let’s see a shield block that!Mmh, I would've gone for Biisii's, but I like v+z's plan more.
>>6410385>THE BAG! THE BAAAAAGGG!!!!>>6410409>>6410426>FIRE AWAY!!!Hellfire wins it! Let's see how it goes!>ROLL me 1d100-1 (+3 HELLFIRE!!!, +5 Rezzie Support, -4 Mage Shield, -2 Summoning, -3 Fought you before...) to torch this tool! Best of 3!
Rolled 13 - 1 (1d100 - 1)>>6410501REZZIEIF YOU WIN THISIF YOU FUCKING WIN THISI'LLI'LL[insert reward later]
Rolled 36 (1d100)>>6410501Up top! >>6410503Rezzie don't listen to this guy his dice stink
Rolled 98 - 1 (1d100 - 1)>>6410503Rolling again, since no one else seems to be rolling.
>>6410503>>6410504>>6410585>HIGHEST ROLL: JESUS CHRIST NINETY-FRICKIN-SEVENYou maniacs. You absolute maniacs. Will probably write the next bit up later on Monday since I had a big day, but good LORD, y'all are rolling DINGERS. Seeya then, probably!
As the vault door grinds open at a glacial pace, you seize the moment by rushing into the fray and hurling a hail of HELLFIRE at the hooded henchman! Just before the fireballs can meet their mark, however, an unseen aberration emerges before the summoner with a menacing gurgle!He expected your attack–there’s no other way to slice it–and though your magical missiles pop the summonee like a meat-filled water balloon, its master remains unscathed!“Bold,” They croon as their OTHER beast emerges from an unseen circle with a series of low, rumbling clicks, “But we know ALL of your tricks, An-”One-Hand’s taunt is cut short by a Rezzie-shaped missile! Slipping through the gap left by his first summon, the devil violently crashes into the mage, sending a thunderous crack of magical energy across the chamber! Watching the two careen across the room, you nearly fall victim to a thorny tendril to the face!A lesser adventurer would’ve totally BEEFED it right there, but you? You’re ANTON THE UNDYING, damn it! That’s what TT calls you, at least! Slipping to the side just in time to feel the summoned beast’s tentacle whip past your cheek, you hurl a fresh helping of HELLFIRE at the beast and grin at the ensuing crackles and shrieks!It’s all fun and games, however, until the beast starts THRASHING! You can’t really blame them–HELLFIRE is lame even in the best of situations–but whatever the hell One-Hand summoned isn’t being polite about it… and the mass of barbed tendrils is coming right for you! EEEK!>Roll me 1d100-1 (+3 Swift Footwork, +2 LIMBOOO, +1 HELLFIRE Resistance, -4 BIG BEASTIE, -3 One-Hand Interference) to get outta the waaaayyyy!!!! Best of 3!
Rolled 98 - 1 (1d100 - 1)>>6410887AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAADON'T KILL ME DON'T KILL ME DON'T KILL ME PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE
Rolled 44 (1d100)>>6410887Thrashing?! I hate when beasts thrash. I actually wish they would just make it illegal already. They don't need to do stuff like that.
>>6410904Cheese Louise are you using, like, GAMESHARK or something with these rolls good lord
>>6410928oh wait i didn't even notice i rolled a 97 again Yes, I'm using GameTzah, the most powerful cheating device.
Feel free to roll again if you've already done so--gonna try to update a lil' earlier on Tuesday assuming I don't have as many meetings!
Rolled 8 (1d100)Don't mind if I do, bub, only got a 1% chance of fucking this up, and a 2% chance of improving things - and I LIKE those odds!!!
>>6410904>>6410925>>6411076>HIGHEST ROLL: 97!!!! >>6411076Thanks, big dog, will get that update out a little later on Tuesday! Thanks for y'all's patience
>>6411078Based on your recent and frequent experience with avoiding death, the trick to not dying, you’ve learned, is to put yourself far from the thing that can kill you! And put yourself you do! A loud grunt leaves your lips as you dive into a PERFECTLY-EXECUTED CARTWHEEL that takes you out of the rampaging beast’s path just in the nick of time!… Okay, maybe it wasn’t perfect, but it worked, and that’s what matters most! As the monster’s spikes whip past you like an angry rose bush, you skid to a halt just in time to avoid a sudden burst of magic crashing at your feet!One-Hand shook Rezzie, it would seem, and the way he hovers menacingly above you tells you he’s not ready to throw in the towel! The flurry of acrid-scented attacks he sends your way proves it–and as you bat each one back at him with your ever-handy MAGIC SHIELD, your counterattack is cut short by a panicked shriek in the direction of the burning beast!Oodeel–still rattled from all that’s happened–levitates away from the crispy critter you cooked, but in blind fury it follows her with a series of menacing clicks! Before you can act, a beam of energy slams into your shield, sending you skidding across the chamber as One-Hand presses the assault!“Foolishness, Anton!” They snarl as they double-down, “FOOLISHNE-”Interrupted by a fireball whizzing past their face, the Cultist dips and weaves through a flurry of flames flung by your favorite fiend… and as she uses the confusion to dive at your foe, Rezalith is taken completely off-guard as the area surrounding One-Hand EXPLODES with magical energy! Rezzie is sent flying, but you’ve got an opening! The question is… what do?>GEOMANCY! Surprise, jerk!>They’re distracted! HELLFIRE time!>DISPEL MAGIC! Break through that barrier!>Assist Oodeel! Stop that summon!>MAGIC SHIELD–bait an attack and bat it back at them!>BIISII’S BAG!>THROWING KNIVES! You’ve got plenty!>REZZIE TAG-TEAM! HELLGEYSER over and have her fling you!>Write-In!
>>6411267>THROWING KNIVES! You’ve got plenty!
>>6411267>DISPEL MAGIC! Break through that barrier!Zing zap and so on
>>6411267>DISPEL MAGIC! Break through that barrier!LISTEN HERE YOU FUCKING KEK. YOU WILL BE DISPELLED. YOU WILL CONTINUE TO BE DISPELLED.
>>6411299>A KNIFE PLAN ALL THINGS CONSIDERED>>6411315>>6411318>DISPELLING ERRORMAGIC WINS IT AGAIN>Roll me 1d100+4 (+5 Rezzie Support, +2 Occupied, -2 Summoned Beast, -1 Fought You Before (But Ya Didn't Do THIS!)) to smash that shield! Best of 3!
Rolled 18 + 4 (1d100 + 4)>>6411382DON'T WATCHDON'T LEARNDON'T TALKDON'T BREATH
Rolled 45 (1d100)>>6411382Maybe a little bit of watching and some sparknotes...
Rolled 90 + 4 (1d100 + 4)>>6411392No rolls for a while, so I'll try to redeem myself.
>>6411583And you did
>>6411583Good job, redeemoid
>>6411392>>6411420>>6411583>HIGHEST ROLL: 94!!!>>6411583I forgive you, anon. For everything. WRITING>>6411420Yea boot up those Dark Quest Youtube Essays
Sensing your chance, you bolt towards One-Hand with a fistful of magic cooking in your palm! Well, ANTI-MAGIC in this case, and it’s got this jerk’s name written all over it!Reality has a habit of complicating things, however, and as you approach your adversary a deafening THOOM rocks the chamber from your right, sending the summoned beast reeling with a baleful moan!Fortunately it sounds like Oodeel’s not completely defenseless! UNfortunately she just sent One-Hand’s remaining monster sliding your way! With a determined breath and swift footwork, you manage to leap into the air just in time to land on the creature’s crackling, serpentine body, and as a forest of writhing tendrils swipe at your sprinting form, you use the burning beast as an impromptu–and very dangerous–stairway to reach your target!One-Hand, however, is a bit preoccupied with your fiend friend’s counterattack! Dipping and banking through a flurry of magical motes, Rezalith cackles for a moment before her eyes disappear in a magical ‘THWOOP’ and reappear perpendicular to the floor!You… can guess what happens next.“HA!” One-Hand laughs as the demon gets intimately and violently-acquainted with the floor, “Mind over matter! And now for YOU, ANTO-”Their bravado slips into abject terror as a high-pitched shriek leaps from the Cultist’s unseen mouth and into your face! Joining it in the assault is a frantic blast of magic–some kind of beam, given how it rips past your side with an icy burn as you scurry forth–but what you don’t manage to dodge you bat away with your MAGIC SHIELD! Just before they can slip away with a teleport spell, you lunge forward with a loud ‘DISPEL MAGIC’ leaping from your lips!You probably didn’t need to add that little detail, but the blow strikes its mark–and with a burst of static electricity you feel a repellant force around One-Hand fizzle into nothing like an old-timey TV being shut off! In the absence of magic, they tumble towards the ground with you in hot pursuit–your magical dampening prompting their summoned subordinate to writhe like a worm on a hot tin roof!Taking a page from what Rezalith did just moments before, the two of you crash onto the cavern floor in a scrambling heap! Ha-HA, you croon as you wrestle your foe to the floor, not so tough with one DUMB HAND and without your fancy-shmancy MAGIC, are w-In your struggle, your hand presses against One-Hand’s voluminous robes… Wait, are they a-!?Hey, remember when One-Hand blasted Rezalith away from them? With that unseen, but probably really nasty force? It was around that time they mentioned something about their faith in the BURROWER?>CONTD.
>>6411929Yea, whatever the hells it is, it STINGS as it emanates from your floored foe like stink from an onion–so much so that you find yourself reeling more than you did around that Divine Energy from before! What… what the FRICK!?“You…” Hisses One-Hand as they stagger to their feet swaying like a scarecrow, “You’ve… improved…”Damn right you have, you reply as you strike a heroic pose, and they’re the same they were back in that tower: LAME!“Tch…” They grunt as Rezalith circles them like a red-eyed hawk just outside of their malevolent ‘aura’, “You jest about forces you cannot begin to comprehend… this vault, like our battles, are but one of many. Your luck, ample though it may be, will not last...”The vault door continues to trundle open behind the Cultist, whose body slowly crackles with fresh magical force…“Do what you will, ANTON,” They snarl with fresh haughtiness in their tone, “We’ve already won here…”You blink. No they haven’t.“Yes we did.”No they didn’t!“Yuh-huh! We’re one step ahead of you! Every step of the way!”Jesus CHRIST, this is getting you nowhere! But they’re clearly getting ready to escape, somehow, so…What do?>ATTACK! You can still deal a nasty blow!>INTERROGATE! Ask them a question! These damned cultists are so obnoxious!>DEMEAN! You and your Burrower SUCK!>BE THOROUGH! Make sure their cringe summon is dead!>DELEGATE! Oodeel, Rezzie, anything you’d like to add?>GOAD! They don’t even know what’s in this stupid vault, do they!?>Write-In!
>>6411930>GOAD! They don’t even know what’s in this stupid vault, do they!?YOU KNOWIF YOU THINK YOU WONGO AHEAD, TELL US WHAT'S IN THE VAULT. SINCE YOU **WON** SO HARD, OBVIOUSLY TELLING US WON'T CHANGE ANYTHINGRIGHT?
>>6411930>GOAD! They don’t even know what’s in this stupid vault, do they!?Goadal Cultist Death
>>6411930>GOAD! They don’t even know what’s in this stupid vault, do they!?
>>6412121>>6412125>>6412200>GOAD FOR THE GOLD!WwWWWWwwWWwWRRRrrRRRRIIIIIIIIITTTTTIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIINNNGGGg
The rest of Zoral might not know much about THE CULT OF THE BURROWER, but you do–sneaky bastards with cells all over the land holding clandestine meetings run by their mysterious leader: LORD LARIUS. What you DON’T know, however, is why they’re risking life and limb (doubly-so in One-Hand’s case) to crack open some ancient vault right before a siege!Fortunately One-Hand isn’t as tight-lipped as you used to think they were… and just like you learned during your brief stint in stage magic, it’s sleight-of-hand, not force, that wins the day!Staring your floundering foe down, you disarm them even further with a derisive laugh!“H-huh!?” Mutters One-Hand, “Hey… we’re the harbingers of your demise, you know! You could at least act like it!”“Been there, done that, got the T-Shirt…” Rezalith grumbles with a shrug. “He doesn’t respond to threats or superior beings.”The Cultist blinks at the reveal. Probably. Hoods have a tendency to obscure those gestures. “... That’s stupid.”Your fiend friend nods in solemn assent. “Yes… yes he is…”Look, can we stop talking about how stupid you are for a second? If we wanna talk about dumbasses, you huff, why not look in a MIRROR!?“... What is that.”D’oh! It’s… whatever! You bet they don’t even know what’s in that vault, do they!? Flinging Rezalith away with another pulse of UNdivine energy, One-Hand’s voice falters somewhat as they stammer out a response!“... O-of COURSE we know! An ANCIENT TREASURE that will reduce this sinful city to rubble! Our master’s machinations span centuries! You don-”Okay but seriously, you interrupt flatly, what is it? Another awkward silence falls over the chamber, save for the slow grinding of stone against stone. Jeez, this vault is taking ages to unlock!“HAH! As if I’d tell you–our mortal foe!” One-Hand sneers with a haughty laugh! “In fact, why tell you…” They continue as an idea slips into their tone, “... When I can SHOW YOU!?”Turning to face the vault, One-Hand makes a sweeping gesture with their remaining hand–probably–as they bark a command into the inky darkness!“LANDSHAPER! AWAKEN… AND DESTROY THESE FOOLS!”Their order echoes into the abyss.And echoes.…… Do they wanna try again, or-“LANDSHAPER! RESPOND!... please...”‘Landshaper’, you ask, sharing a dismissive grin with Rezalith before she tries and fails once again to tackle the Cultist, what’s th-The words scarcely leave your lips before six dim lights ignite beyond the vault door–the dust covering them doing little to dim their owner’s otherworldly hue! >CONTD.
>>6412515… Huh. Is there gonna be more? Whatever they belong to is barely taller than you…“Wh-WHA?!” Sputters the enemy sorcerer in unfiltered disbelief, “W-what did you just saaaaay!? T-TELL ME!”“That… w-was…” Oodeel murmurs from her corner, “P-PUU’LRII...”“P-PUU’LRII?!” One-Hand exclaims as a sound akin to a generator firing up roars from beyond the still-rising vault door, “H-how?! How do you know that language!? It’s been dead for ages!”A magician never reveals his tricks, you reply with a shrug! Dumbfounded by the sudden reveal, a forced laugh leaves One-Hand as they attempt to reclaim the narrative! “W-well done, FOOL! You’ve activated our new weapon! A-as expected!” Turning once more to face their ‘new weapon’, the Cultist makes another sweeping gesture (as evidenced by the sound of their robe fluttering) as they give another command!“LANDSHAPER! ANNIHILATE THEM!”“Landshaper, do you hear me?”The eyes pulse with fresh life. “WE HEAR YOU, COMMANDER.”A sound akin to a vole being stepped on escapes One-Hand’s unseen mouth. Hear that? You’re their COMMAN-“Y-YES, I HEARD!” They snarl, taking a few steps away as the vault door finally concludes its glacial-paced journey! “Y-you… th-this is…!”Just when things couldn’t get any better, a ‘THOOP’ of magic heralds the return of your two favorite mages! And Obber!… Okay, maybe they’re not your favorite.“Ah, just in time.” Oti remarks as his glowing eyes fall upon One-Hand’s general direction. “Apologies for the detour.”“Those mages won’t be bothering anyone anymore!” Croons Toppel with a menacing cackle! “Right, Obber?”“Click.” You don’t even wanna know what he did to them…Stunned and surrounded, One-Hand stands like a statue as they slowly realize they’re outgunned. So, you begin with a polite cough, do they surrender, or-“‘SURRENDER!?’” One-Hand snarls indignantly, “You WISH! We are LEGION! We are RELENTLESS! THE BURROWER WA-”“Ah. They’re preparing to teleport.” Toppel reports, earning a strangled noise from the Summoner.“Mhm.” Oti mutters as his eyes glimmer. “HOLD PE-”A panicked yelp leaves the hooded henchman as a burst of magic surges from their position! Just as it triggers, however, another blast rings out from across the chamber!“Y-YOU KILLED MY FRIIEEEENDS!”Oodeel’s cry is punctuated by the sound of her spell impacting against something… and a subsequent wet SPLUT of something fleshy hitting the floor!“DAAAGHNOTMYOTHERHAAAND-”>CONTD.
>>6412517As One-Hand–now No-Hand–poofs out of the chamber, you’re left with the silence of your success: the vault’s treasure stares blankly from its shadowy sarcophagus like a car’s headlights in the fog, Oodeel collapses into a quiet, quivering mess, Rezzie pauses mid-bite like a cat getting caught in the kibble, no doubt having picked up the Cultist’s freshly-amputated appendage, and Toppel, Oti, and Obber are already glowing with fresh magic!H-hey, you stammer, what’s-“What do you think?” Oti answers with a frown in his tone.“We can chase them!” Toppel smirks!“Click.”Okay they don’t need to go THAT far with it, Obber! With the battle more or less won, you give your back a well-deserved stretch before…CHOICE 1:>Let the mages chase No-Hand!>Let SOME of the mages chase No-Hand! (Who?)>Tell them not to chase ‘em!CHOICE 2:>Checking in with Oti, Toppel, and Obber!>Getting to know the ‘LANDSHAPER’!>Dealing with Oodeel!>Getting that HAND from Rezzie!>Write-In!
>>6412518>Tell them not to chase ‘em!Guy's kind of a jobber, it'll be alright. >Getting to know the ‘LANDSHAPER’! Methinks
>>6412518>Tell them not to chase ‘em!>Getting to know the ‘LANDSHAPER’!
>>6412606>>6412722>NO CHASE!>LANDSHAPER? I 'ARDLY KNOW 'ER!Writing a short one, folks!
Wait… wait, guys… wait…Your menagerie of mages pauses mid-cast and mildly-miffed!“WHAT.” Toppel snarls as Oti watches with pure annoyance etched into his features!Forget about the Cultist, you answer with a dismissive wave that no one notices, they’re not worth it!“W-WHAT?!” Oodeel exclaims from her sad little corner, “B-bu-but they-”You know, you interrupt as kindly as you can, but these guys are cautious–following after them might land people in a trap or something… not to mention you’ve already got something that can lead you right to them!“... An extremely fresh cloud of portal residue? Still hot?” Oti answers, prompting you to groan!No, you sigh, you can just use what you used last time to sniff ‘em out: THE HAND!… Rezzie can you please stop gnawing on it so Oti can ensorcel it later please?The demon drops the limb to the floor with an exaggerated eyeroll! “Tch… wasn’t even that tasty…”Muchas Gracias!“Don’t call me that, AnTWIT!”With your mages managed for the time-being, you turn your attention to the vault’s contents… or lack thereof. You don’t wanna sound ungrateful, but the movies you grew up watching might’ve spoiled you when it comes to ancient treasure–you don’t even feel any piles of GOLD COINS as you head over to its sole occupant!The prize, or LANDSHAPER as No-Hand called it, doesn’t flinch, doesn’t blink, and doesn’t move as you approach–nor does it react when you wave a hand in front of its six glowing eyes… or give it a few taps with your knuckles.Errr, EARTHSHAPER? Your query sends the construct into a series of rapid clicks and hisses–venting steam, maybe? You don’t feel anything…“COMMANDER.”Finally some RECOGNITION around here! Hey guys, you laugh, turning to face your friends, did… did you hear what they sai-“SCORCHING SPELLS!” Exclaims Toppel as she scurries over wide-eyed and awestruck, “Is.. is that what I THINK it is!?”“Indeed,” Nods Oti from the sidelines, “A PUU’LRII construct. In good condition, no less.”The sorceress squeals with delight as she pushes past you to give it a once-over… and then a five-over!“This… this is MIRACULOUS!” She croons, practically drooling as her Maakar brother trots over, “To think the PUU’LRII were capable of such… such SOPHISTICATION!”… She’s not gonna drool on it, is she?>CONTD.
>>6412799No answer–too busy climbing all over the damn thing. If the construct minds, it doesn’t say anything, but it seems like it’s up to you to make contact…What do?>What are you?>Who made you?>What are your functions?>Why were you in a vault?>Tell me more about the PUU’LRII!>Know anything about DEMONS?>Wanna help us save the day?>Toppel, what’s your analysis of this thing?>Do you only speak PUU’LRII, or?>What do you know about sieges?>Is there any more of you?>You were kinda expecting some more treasure…>You can talk later, let’s get outta’ this dump!>Write-In!
>>6412800I figure we more or less know the first two answers, and it called us commander so I think if can communicate passably... But I AM very curious so forgive me for picking multiple questions my good bub.>What are your functions?>Tell me more about the PUU’LRII!>Wanna help us save the day?>Toppel, what’s your HEY STOP DROOLING, what's your, HEY I MEAN IT YOU FREAKAZOID WHAT THE FUCKING FART ARE YOU DOING THATS GROSS, ok what's your analysis of this thing?>What do you know about sieges?>Is there any more of you?Not necessarily in that order (^:
>>6412800>What are your functions?>Toppel, what’s your HEY STOP DROOLING,, ok what's your analysis of this thing?>What do you know about sieges?>Is there any more of you?
>>6412800>What are your functions?>Tell me more about the PUU’LRII!>Toppel, what’s your....gross, stop drooling man. You're a sick freak you know that, right? Anyways, what's your analysis of this thing?>What do you know about sieges?
>>6412810>>6412860>>6412862THE TALLY:>FUNCTIONS: 3>PUU'LRII: 2>WANNA HELP?: 1>TOPPEL YOU DISGUSTING DEGENERATE WHAT'S THE ANALYSIS GOD YOU'RE A WRETCHED BEAST: 3>SIEGES?: 3>ANY MORE OF YOU?:1Looks like FUNCTIONS/TOPPEL ANALYSIS/SIEGES wins it! Writinggggg
When it’s clear the LANDSHAPER isn’t going to shape the bejeezus out of you, you start with something simple! Err, LANDSHAPER, you begin, trusting whatever strange language-bestowing glitch your botched summoning gave you to get your message across, FUNCTIONS!?At your request, the construct shudders, creaks, and clicks as it prepares a response! TOPPEL, you snarl as the polymorphed Durher leaps onto the LANDSHAPER like a tick on a mission, c-COOL IT!“MagNIFICENT!” She chirps, leaving your warning by the wayside, “This design–there’s similarities to NUUGAL engineering, and yet I can barely sense any magical animat-OW!”She got her paw pinched, huh? The ensuing raspberry blown in your direction tells you everything you need to know.“DIRECTIVE: SHAPE THE LAND BY THE WILL OF THE COMMANDER,” booms the ‘bot, their sheer volume sending you tumbling backwards, “FUNCTIONS: DEEPSTEEL ALLOY DIGGING TALONS AND LAYERED PROTECTIVE SKELETON. CONTINUOUS CONSTELLATION-LINKED NAVIGATION SYSTEMS. PRESSURE-SUPPLIED POINT PROPULSION. NUTRIENT SYNTHESIS AND DISPERSAL EMITTERS-”H-hold on, you interject as the construct continues to rattle along, is… when it says ‘LANDSHAPE’ does it mean-“DIRECTIVE:” It repeats in that same booming voice, “SHAPE THE LAND BY THE WI-”Toppel, you mutter under the LANDSHAPER’s droning voice, is… is this thing a-“It would appear so…” She nods grimly as she sucks her pinched claw, “This automaton isn’t an ancient weapon at all… it’s a GARDENING CONSTRUCT.”… Does she have to sound so dejected? The witch answers with a dramatic pout!“Of COURSE I do!” She whines, stomping her tiny foot just a hair’s-bredth from her quadripedal brother, “I was expecting fearsome, ancient technology! Engineering bordering witchcraft! An unstoppable, unyielding force that conquered whole continents unfettered by the confines of individuality or delusions of morality! Big, SNAPPING CLAWS! FEET MADE TO CRUSH SKULLS INTO THE DIRT! And… and FIRE! Fire and DEATH pouring from every metal orifice!!!”“Click.”Yea, you have to agree with Obber on this one–his sister can be pretty koo-koo!“... Click.”… No, you don’t find it ‘hot’. Look, Toppel, you repeat with as much patience as you can muster, she has a knack for this stuff, maybe–what’s her analysis?“Well…” She huffs, reclaiming what little decorum she has as she circles the construct like an angry squirrel, “Soil-tiller or not, this construct is in remarkable condition, even having been confined to a vault for however many years…”Does she think everything works? The Durher gives the contraption a few smacks with her staff before responding.>CONTD.
>>6413107“I suppose we won’t know until we test it–oh brother dearest~”“Click.”N-never mind that! It… mentioned propulsion and nutrients and crap–what’s that all about?“What indeed…” She purrs, slipping between the robot’s legs and limbs like a coked-up otter, “I can definitely feel ports of some sort on the individual limbs and posterior thorax…”Wait, you stammer as your eyes light up with childlike glee, it… it can FLY!? That’s NEAT!“Fly? Perhaps. Hover, most likely.” She sighs, peeking out from beneath the bot. “With how thick this exoskeleton is, at least…”Yea, they mentioned DEEPSTEEL–“Ancient PUU’LRII alloy used in weapons and shipbuilding.” She recites as if you’d asked her what her favorite food was. “PUU’LRII aquanauts would mine it from the ocean floor–hard to come by these days.”Yea, you can imagine… can we count on this thing to stay on our side, she thinks?“Well as luck would have it, YOU seem to be the only one capable of commanding it…” She retorts with undisguised ire in her tone and gaze. “Yet another boon for ANTON THE UNDYING… huzzah…”If she keeps being nasty you’re gonna punt her into a pond.“Click.”“Of course it would make my robe cling to my body–that’s what water DOES, you drooling invalid! It CLINGS!” Toppel snarls as she gives her brother a kick! “What does THAT have to do with anything, you repulsive cur, you!?”You’ve had your fill of the Gransee siblings for now. While Oti and Rezalith engage in some kind of conversation with Oodeel, you bring your new toy up to the task at hand! LANDSHAPER, you bark, uh… SIEGES! What does it know about ‘em?The LANDSHAPER belches acrid-scented steam! “DEFINITION: SUSTAINED MILITARY STRATEGY WITH THE GOAL OF FORCING A SURRENDER OF FORTIFIED FORCES. WARRANTED DEVELOPMENT OF TOOLS AND WEAPONS USED IN THE PIERCING AND/OR WEARING DOWN OF DEFENSES. A NECESSITY IN PUU’LRRAADI MARINE ASSAULTS. VESSEL-MOUNTED CANNON-HARPOONS NOTED TO BE EXCEPTIONALLY EFFECTIVE.” A tiny hiss leaves the automaton’s ‘head’.“STRATEGIC RECORDS SUGGEST SIEGES AND SUBSEQUENT CONFLICT INTERFERE WITH CROP YIELD AND SOIL QUALITY. CONCLUSION: DETRIMENTAL TO LAND CULTIVATION EFFORTS.”Okay, you frown, so what happens if someone tries to step on their Begonias? Does it have any combat capabilities?The automaton answers by RAKING its talons across the floor, reducing the moss-choked stone to ribbons that poke at your ankle!“W-wow…” Stammers Toppel in a breathless tone as her cheeks turn a concerning shade of red, “I-impressive…”Just when you’re about to get over the claws, the air next to your head roars as a stream of unseen flames billows from the automaton’s appendage!>CONTD.
>>6413109“CONTROLLED BURN DIAGNOSTIC COMPLETE. ALL SYSTEMS NOMINAL.”You join Toppel in stunned silence as the last of the residual flames flicker into nothingness. Well, you cough, that’s… that could help…“Maybe that pervert with the ship could look at it too.” Suggests Rezzie as the fiend appears at your side.“Indeed.” Oti adds with an approving nod. “We were fortunate our foes didn’t take it.”Who wouldn’t want a big, stompy garden robot? Giving it an appreciative pat on the… head, maybe? You weigh your next options carefully–the threats are gone and the situation is solved, more or less, but you’ve still gotta get back to the surface…… And figure out what to do with poor Oodeel.What’s next?CHOICE 1>What should we call our new bot buddy?CHOICE 2>Ask the bot something else!>Deal with Oodeel!>One more question for Toppel!>Rezzie, you wanna talk!>Oti, some words!>Just look for a way out–can you teleport a construct?>Write-in!
>>6413110>What should we call our new bot buddy?Appleseed (^: >Deal with Oodeel!Let's wrap this up Once we have her sorted >Write-in >Have the LANDSHAPER assist you as you use your Geomancy to tunnel out of this joint real expeditious-like
>>6413110>What should we call our new bot buddy?JOHNNY "APPLESEED" MCINTOSHTHIS NAME WILL BE KINO>Deal with Oodeel!OKEY LISTEN WE NEED TO MAKE SURE YOU WON'T MURDER US LATER LOVE YA
>>6413280>MCINTOSHOh shit that's clever anon, very fucking kino!!!!!!!
>>6413110>>6413280 +1So we're all thinking we're the Commander because of our geomancy, right?
Congratulations, our new baby bot boy is named>JOHNNY 'APPLESEED' MCINTOSHThis will no doubt cause him immense confusion growing up and spur relentless teasing from the other Ancient Gardening Bots in his class, but he will eventually rise above it as a resilient young man and eventually rely on that nacent confidence when he runs for local office in a small, midwestern community.As for the OTHER stuff..>>6413113>DEAL WITH DEEL>JOHNNY GET US OUTTA HERE BRO>>6413280>>6413395>DEAL WITH DEELLet's address the Mox in the room, shall we? Writing, but expect delays today--got errands to run, shit to take care of. No rest for the wicked...
The prize is pilfered and the baddies are beaten–only one loose end remains, and it’s a bit of a doozie to say the least…LANDSHAPER, you bark in a booming voice, you hereby dub him… JOHNNY! JOHNNY APPLESEED! MCINTOSH!The construct’s eyes glow in acknowledgement! “IT IS DONE, COMMANDER. UNIT ‘JOHNNY APPLESEED MCINTOSH’ STANDS READY TO PAVE YOUR PATH WITH ANY AND ALL WEEDS, PESTS, AND BLIGHTS THAT DARE THREATEN OUR BOUNTIFUL HARVEST.”… Alright, bet, you nod, but like… he can just go by ‘Johnny’ if he wants… or ‘Appleseed’.“A dreadful moniker if there ever was one!” Scoffs Toppel with a derisive laugh! “What kind of name is THAT for a metal mercenary? Alas~if only your intellect matched your propensity for hitting things-”Johnny–pick this pest up and shake her around until she cries.“W-wait, wha-”“ACKNOWLEDGED, COMMANDER.”With THAT matter settled, you move on to ANOTHER loose end you nearly forgot about:Oodeel. Say what you will about her Geassed-up buddy sharpening his sacrificial dagger seconds after meeting you, to say she’s had a rough day would be an understatement. Oodeel, you begin, cautiously-approaching the girl as she stares blankly across the chamber, how’s she holding up, hmm?“Physically? Better than expected.” Oti reports as he turns from his patient to face you. “That Summoned Beast could’ve done some real damage, but she’s no worse for wear.”“Healing’s… always b-been… my thing…” Mutters the Mox from the floor. “Just… comes naturally..”“Mentally, well…” The Chytree concludes with a grave glimmer in his gaze, “... We vanquished Toppel and Obber’s ambushers, but there may be more… and they may seek vengeance.”“W-why?”The question takes you, Oti, and Rezzie all off-guard. Oodeel repeats it.“Why? I… th-they already took ev-everything… e-everyone...”Rezalith turns away and joins Obber in watching his sister flail around like a tassel at a strip club. You open your mouth to respond, but a light, albeit firm birdlike talon clasps your shoulder. Oti’s, you realize, and its owner’s slow shaking head tells you the battle’s not worth fighting.Oodeel, you sigh as you stoop down to her level, you hate to do this, but you really can’t stick around here for long–“G-go then…” She stammers, her voice hitching amidst the fresh anger in her voice, “S-SO G-GREAT meeting you a-all! I-it’s been a real treat, really!”>CONTD.
>>6413937She doesn’t mean to snap–even you, King Heartbreaker, can sense that… and while you failed to do right by Liz, you can still try to help this misguided mage…What’s the plan for Oodeel?>Does she have any family you can take her to? Anyone?>You know a Skog Lady who owns a Tavern… she can probably stay there until she’s ready to move on.>If she really wants to help people, there’s this group called THE LAMPLIGHTERS…>Does she wanna join your gang for a while? You could use her healing…>The siege is coming. Would she be willing to assist Crossroads’ forces?>Oti, would erm, your ‘special group’ (STAR-CLOAKS) be interested in her?>Oti, could she stay in your tower for a while? Maybe she could learn a thing or two from you?>Just get her out of this vault. It’s best if she figures her next steps out herself.>Write-In!Sorry for the delay, all--was outside in the sun working all day and it kinda took a chunk out of me when I finally sat down! Wiped the frick OUT
>>6413938>If she really wants to help people, there’s this group called THE LAMPLIGHTERS…They can whip her into shape for sure. She's too bush league right now, I think. We got this siege to handle, sure, but also LORDS and DEMONS and SIXFACE. She's got growing to do before all that. She didn't handle the deep end well, but I think she has potential. The Lamplighters will be able to use a healer for themselves and the people they help.
>>6413938>If she really wants to help people, there’s this group called THE LAMPLIGHTERS…
>>6413938>If she really wants to help people, there’s this group called THE LAMPLIGHTERS…FRIENDSHIP FOREVER
>>6413944>>6414042>>6414113>LAMPLIGHTERRRRRRRSSSSSSSSSSSWriting! Got more errands today so might take a while--apologies in advance!
Oodeel, you begin in as placating of a tone as you can muster, shes’... she’s not a bad person.“Unless this series of unfortunate events leads her down the path to darkness, that is.”You open your mouth to shush Oti, but falter. She’s… she’s not gonna do that, right, you ask as you lean in with concern tattooed across your face! This series of unfortunate events isn’t going to lead her down the path to darkness… is it? Be honest!The Mox merely answers you both with an incredulous look.“... who… ARE you people?”We’re the GOOD GUYS, you reply with a wink when your thumb’s up doesn’t land! And even if evil’s foul talons grasp at her heart, you know… y-you KNOW she’s better than that! Everyone does!“Potential is a terrible thing to waste.” Oti shrugs, which you know is high praise coming from him!Rezzie merely nods from over her shoulder.“Click.”“T-TELL THIS THING TO STOP SHAKING ME”Despite the whole team’s combined efforts, Oodeel doesn’t look convinced. “... I… j-just want to be alone…”Does she, though? Really?Your question takes the conjurer off-guard. “Wh-huh?”You… get it, okay? You know what it feels like to just want to crawl into a hole and fester, you explain as some of your recently-reclaimed drift through your mind. You know, you continue, because you’ve been there before… and it feels easy because it is–and that’s what she’s looking for right now, isn’t she? An easy way to avoid staring that pain in the eye?Oodeel’s face dips floorward. “... They were… they were the only family I had…”You know, you answer with a solemn nod, and for what it’s worth, you’re still sorry for… well, how it all played out.She doesn’t respond.But, you continue as determination flares in your eyes, everyone, EVERYONE deserves another chance… a chance to turn that pain into something productive! A chance to help ensure others don’t feel what she’s feeling right now!The Mox’s soggy gaze meets yours with a sob. “... Is… are you talking about another Cult?”>CONTD.
>>6414341What? No! No, you repeat with a spirited head shake, you’re… you’re talking about THE LAMPLIGHTERS! Fighters for the common man! Defenders of the meek and weak!Oodeel’s sullen expression intermingles with fresh befuddlement. “... That group of suicidal maniacs that keep ending up stabbed or mauled?”… yea, Volka REALLY needs to invest in a PR Manager… w-wha, you reply with a bit too much faux-confusion, where… where did she hear that?“The Criers.” The Mox flatly replies. “Used to be their obituaries would t-take up half the a-announcements…” She blinks. “... I even tripped over a dead one once. H-head c-completely dissolved-”Nevermind that, you interject with a shrug! The point is, they’re dying a lot less now… and you’ve actually recruited quite a few new members as of late!She blinks again. “... YOU’RE a m-member?”…. Mmmaybe?You brace yourself for a blow that never comes. A fresh silence falls over the chamber with only Toppel’s pathetic mumbling remaining. Oti watches from your flank with an inscrutable look as always… no doubt waiting for the other boot to drop.All you get, however, is a long, ragged, resigned sigh. “... C-can I… meet them? At least? No pr-promises...”A-actually, you reply, trying not to let too much surprise slip into your voice, you were probably going to check in with them in a bit… they’re helping drum up recruitment efforts for, uh-“The Siege.” Interrupts the Mox. “I see…”Yea, you laugh, they’re uh… there’s gonna be a talent show! And a tourney! Lots of… lots of cool stuff! And it’ll be at this tavern she’s gonna love!“... I don’t d-drink…”… Okay, she’ll love it anyways! “Does that mean we’re finished here, Anton?” Oti asks expectantly. You think so, you answer with a nod, but… What’s next?>Contact someone in The Gang! (Who?)>Ask someone here another question! (Oodeel, Toppel, Oti, Rezzie, Obber, JOHNNY)>Go help Joji the Machinist and Joplin the Manager set up fortifications! (Who ya’ takin’ with you?)>Assist with the Recruitment Drive! Volka, TT, and Lutza might appreciate the help! (Who bring?)>Write-In!
>>6414342>Go help Joji the Machinist and Joplin the Manager set up fortifications! (Who ya’ takin’ with you?)Let's bring Appleseed and Oti, we can use his LANDSHAPING and our Geomancy along with Oti's brains to build an ironclad defense!
>>6414342>Go help Joji the Machinist and Joplin the Manager set up fortifications! (Who ya’ takin’ with you?)HEY JOJI MEET APPLESEEDSAY HI APPLESEED
>>6414377>>6414446>FORTIFYLooks like there are votes to bring JOHNNY and OTI... screw it, let's bring em both. Writing!
With the most imminent threats on your docket quelled for the time-being, you opt to focus your attention on more… grounded... matters?“... Why are you staring at me like that, AnTWERP? Quit it!”Yeesh, touchy! Leaving Rezzie to her brooding, you relay your plans to Oti: you’ve put the fortifications off for long enough! Time to go to work!“And I suppose you’ll be needing my teleportation?” He answers in a dry tone. W-well, if he wouldn’t mind… h-he can come help you too if he likes! As a treat!The Chytree doesn’t seem fully swayed by that last bit until he relents with a shrug. “Very well. I’ll do what I can.”Chin up, buttercup, you conclude with a winning smile, JOHNNY’S coming too! Right, JOHNNY? The steam-powered landscaper lets loose a billow of steam in assent!“You don’t intend to hand it over to that kooky tinkerer, do you?” Toppel inquires as she slinks over like a stray cat. “He’ll probably just break it! Or weld it to that airship of his!”That’s none of her concern, you deflect, giving the sorceress a stern stare. She, Obber, and Rezzie are on Recruitment Drive duty–and introducing Oodie to the LAMPLIGHTERS The witch’s smug grin sinks as if you’d just served her a plate of stewed caterpillars.“B-but… but I wanted to go with… Oti…” She whines as her Maakar-morphed brother watches with muted amusement. And you want your very own water park, you groan, but sometimes you don’t get what you want, do you?The Durher cocks her head to the side. “... What’s a ‘Water Park’?”Oh man, these guys are YOKELS! Shaking off your inward snickering, you turn your attention to Rezalith. Rez-Dawg, you continue, does that plan work for her?“For now…” She scoffs, averting her eyes from the still-sullen Oodeel. “We shall rendezvous with Volka and The Snack and discuss things… FRIEND things!”Super. With the matter more or less settled, you leave Oodeel with one last reassuring smile before Oti whisks you and your new agricultural assistant into the aether! It takes a few jumps to get to where you need to go–and a rather embarrassing tumble into a freshly-dug muddy trench–but a few warps later and a quick stop for directions has you standing on the firm, wooden deck of SHUURI--the metal monster parked smack dab in the middle of…Well, it smells like a rotten fart, your face is swarmed by biting critters the size of your pinky nail, and every so often the persistent sound of muddy water gurgling below you is interrupted by crackle and crunch of siege engineers toiling away in the distance. A swamp, maybe?Before you can ponder your location any further, a blue-eyed BLUR divebombs you from across the deck, its hard, spiney head crashing into your chest like a barbed battering ram!“GET OFF MY VESSEL, YOU PUSILLANIMOUS PIRATES!”>CONTD.
>>6414815The good news is that JOHNNY stops you from flying over the side of the airship and into the muck.The bad news is that JOHNNY stops you from flying over the side of the airship and into the muck. Slamming into the darksteel-forged automaton with a CLANG that might just reach all the way to UMBERAL, you crumple onto the deck at the construct’s feet and lay there twitching until cooler heads prevail…“Calm down, old man–it’s us.” Oti explains in a tone far too calm for your liking! Nevertheless, the minute his words hit Joji’s post-headbutting head, the tinkerer falls upon you like a hawk and immediately helps you to your shaky feet!“Anton, boy! What in the Hells are you doing, creeping aboard a man’s vessel like a rogue into a lady’s chambers!?” He exclaims with a jovial laugh! “Hoho! And here I was a frill’s-bredth away from blasting you lot with my RAY-SCATTERER! Good thing I didn’t, ey, wot? Could you imagine?!”“Precisely why I put it back in its case.” Following the voice to its source, you breathe an inward sigh of relief as JOPLIN, Lutza’s manager and mage, approaches from the airship’s innards. “Seemed prudent.”“It was.” Oti answers with a smile in his tone. “We’re here to assist in the fortification efforts–and I do hope we didn’t miss the brunt of the labor…”You get the feeling THAT wasn’t very genuine!“Steady as she goes.” Joplin reports as he paces the deck with his usual professional poise. “CROSSROADS’ NORTH and EAST walls progress smoothly–no reports of any Skog sabotage or Fuuxi tunnelers from any of the City’s Engineer Corps.” He frowns. “Not that they’ve proceeded very far from the wall’s perimeter, that is. They’re primarily focusing on point defenses–spike pits, mud trenches to funnel their infantry, sinkholes…”“Made a few trenches of our own with ole’ SHUURI,” Joji adds with a confident grin, “But nothing too intricate–just enough ta’ give would-be invaders something ta’ climb up an’ over.”So where are we, you ask, rubbing your sore chest as you catch your breath.“SOUTH WALL!” The tinkerer reports! “With the WEST blocked by the river, this here’s the area needin’ the most work! Great timing, by the way!”“You mentioned something earlier,” Oti remarks with a low glow in his gaze, “Creatures hindering the process?”Joji frowns. “Did I? I think there’s some beasts slithering about here, yea… hm. Welp, doesn’t matter now! We’ve got work ta’ do, boy! Look alive!”Ugh.. fine… steading yourself against Johnny, you realize your mistake when Joji’s eyes somehow light up beneath his thick tinkerer’s goggles!>CONTD.
>>6414816“P-P-POUNDING PISTONS!” He roars, giving you and Oti barely a moment to exchange worried glances before trundling over to investigate, “What in the Devil’s Dealings is THIS?!”“Well-”“NO, NO! DON’T TELL ME!” Accosting JOHNNY like a dog would an unguarded steak, Joji wastes no time in examining the robot with the violent eagerness only a tinkerer could provide!“D-DARKSTEEL! And with barely any weathering, either!” He croons as a delighted laugh leaves his lips! “Finely-bored pores… munitions distribution? Heat management? Scarcely a smattering of any arcanities, either…!”Joplin opens his mouth to chime in, but thinks better of it when a dull clang reverberates across the deck!“HA! And these talons! Sharper than a Skog’s tooth and twice as strong! THRICE, easily! B-E-A-UTIFUL! Simply BEAUTIFUL!”“A new ally, I hope?” Asks Joplin. You nod.With Joji busy conducting his assessment, you decide to…>The Engineer Corps. Anyone I can talk to?>Survey the SOUTH WALL. See what you’re dealing with!>Head into No Man’s Land. If there are siegers, they’ll be waiting somewhere past there…>GEOMANCY: Let’s FORTIFY!>Get Joji’s assessment on JOHNNY!>Ask Joji about Shuuri’s fortification capabilities… What can the airship do right now?>Have your layabout teammates help! (Who? Oti, Joplin, JOHNNY, Joji)>Write-In!
>>6414818>Survey the SOUTH WALL. See what you’re dealing with!AIGHTSOUTH WALLSOUTH WALL IS GOD WALL
>>6414818>Survey the SOUTH WALL. See what you’re dealing with!
>>6414818>Survey the SOUTH WALL. See what you’re dealing with!>GEOMANCY: Let’s FORTIFY!I read Joji's lines in the voice of the alcoholic WWI pilot veteran from the hotel in The Mummy.
>>6414982Oh, shoot, that's a fair addition.>>6414897Also adding in >GEOMANCY: Let’s FORTIFY!We got rock magic, after all, we might as well use it.
>>6414982>>6414992>SURVEY THE SOUTH>GEOMANCYYYYYY>>6414947>SURVEY SOUTHLooks like surveying wins it, but we'll see if we can't GEOMANCE a lil when we git there! Writing!>>6414982An anon of good taste, I see
So, you sigh, swatting at a swarm of tiny critters nipping at your face, the South, ey? Joplin nods. Why isn’t HE getting bitten!?“Indeed.” He purrs in that velvety voice of his, “Crossroads boasts a host of ‘Merchant-Marines’ in port–they and the city’s Cryo and Hydromancers will handle the ports on the West side.” His eyes narrow as caution creeps into his tone. “I shouldn’t have to inform you that this isn’t farm land, Mr. Peas. Cautious or carefree, these mires spell danger to all.”You figured, you frown as Joji continues to loudly dote on your new landscaping bot behind you. He’s the managerial type: what would make the South Side safe for Siege Engineering? The Gnok frowns as he weighs your words.“All-told, it might be best to just leave it the way it is.” He shrugs as he casts a glance towards the deeper reaches of the hissing, clicking swamps. “Skogs aren’t stupid–if they can’t find a path that doesn’t swallow them in muck or feed them to the local flora and/or fauna, they won’t take it. Not even the bravest in the pack.”You frown. So… what exactly needs to be done, then? Why bring it up, you ask, jolting upright as a loud ripple pierces the fetid water below!“That’s why.” Joplin answers as he follows your gaze over the airship’s guardrail. “In a manner of speaking, at least.”“Let me guess:” Oti guesses, eyes glowing with renewed intrigue, “Something’s becoming territorial?”“Quite so.” Joplin nods again. “As I mentioned before, when I spoke to the Siege Engineers they informed me that while they intend to leave the swamps relatively untouched, the wall’s perimeter still needs a few touchups.”The Gnok’s gaze picks a spot in the distance–towards the wall, you assume, that or a neat bug or something. “Unfortunately for them, something seems to have riled up the local TSERG population. Emboldened them enough to start snaring workers and dragging them into the silt.”“Cautious things, normally.” Oti helpfully adds, no doubt spotting the confusion etched into your face. “Though exceptionally-violent when provoked. Stick to the mud and the water. Long, dextrous tentacles. Can grow quite large if nature favors them enough, but they’re ordinarily solitary beasts except for-”Both him and Joplin come to the same wide-eyed conclusion!“...Mating season.”“... Mating season.”Err, ‘Mating season…’“Could be a matron nesting near the walls.” Oti reports as his eyes snap back to yours. “Very aggressive. Very territorial, especially when producing or guarding eggs.”>CONTD.
>>6415189Why can’t animals just be nice after ‘doing the nasty’? TT gets all snuggly and-“I don’t need to hear this.”“Neither do I.”Oti and Joplin turn to each other before exchanging stoic nods. Great, you groan as Joji cheers behind you having gotten a blast of steam to the face, they made friends...If you get rid of this TSURG-“TSERG.” Corrects Oti.…TSERG, will the South be ripe for the pickins? Both sitting members and chairmen of the Professional Party exchange a very professional glance.“I would believe so, yes.” Nods Joplin, earning a nod of support from his new best bud.Great, you shrug with a fresh smile, then let’s cook this calamari! Where do we start?>Speak to some South Wall Engineers!>Investigate where the last worker got attacked!>Set some bait in the South Swamp!>Just start GEOMANCING! Something’s bound to show up, right?>Joji? Any ideas? What about you, JOHNNY?>BIISII’S BAG!>Write-In!
>>6415190>Just start GEOMANCING! Something’s bound to show up, right?Let's take Appleseed and Oti to the places where touchups are needed - we can use geomancy and the bot can use his gizmos while Oti keeps watch with those big ol' eyes of his. If the tserg mama shows up and wants some smoke, we can duke it out, but I'm tempted to leave her be - if the tsergs are especially hostile right now, that will just make this route that much more difficult for the Skogs to utilize for some kind of rush, maybe impossible since it's already such difficult terrain. I can see how it'd be an issue now, since it's getting in the way of fortification, but I guess my hope is that with the LANDSHAPER and our magic we can work a lot faster and efficiently than the engineers, and knock it out without having to settle the tserg problem. It's only OUR problem until these defenses are ironed out, once that's done? It's the enemy's problem, yaknow?
>>6415190>Just start GEOMANCING! Something’s bound to show up, right?
>>6415201>>6415549>>6415594>GEOMANCYTime to ROCK this place! >Roll me 1d100+6 (+3 GEOMANCY, +3 JOHNNY Support, +3 Oti Support, +2 Close to Wall, +2 Good Write-In! -2 Treacherous Turf, -5 Angry Tsergs...) to move some dirt! Best of 3!
Rolled 90 (1d100)>>6415784Let's see what we're ROCKIN with, shall we? haha heh (^:
Rolled 54 + 6 (1d100 + 6)>>6415784Apparently rock puns make for good rolls!
Rolled 41 + 6 (1d100 + 6)>>6415784
>>6415788>>6415795>>6415859>HIGHEST ROLL: 96!Writing! Y'all are rolling well as of late--don't take that luck for granite..
A tiny puddle of cold, foul-smelling water laps against your boots as the dinghy you borrowed from a pair of Engineers trudges through the marshes–the sound of distant ‘scree’s and ‘scaw’s in the air joined intermittently by the faint crackle of waterreeds swaying in the wind and the persistent sound of JOHNNY’S NUTRIENT DISPERSAL EMITTER propelling you through the muck!“Remind me, because I can never fully comprehend what goes on in that head of yours,” Oti drones, standing on the prow like a moody George Washington, “Why did we not choose to teleport, again?”The Engineers can handle the wall, you shrug as you sally forth into the great boggy beyond, but that stretch between ‘Just Outside the Wall’ and ‘Into the Swamp’? That’s where your powers are really needed!“Where the rabid Tsergs are?”Kinda, you shrug as the skiff hits a particularly-large wake, it’s… look, in all honesty you don’t mind leaving them there for any would-be invaders… but if said invaders find a way through...“... Then our alterations will ensure they still have a rough time of it.” The Chytree nods with approval. “I still have my doubts about entering from the bog, however…”A reasonable position to take, you fire back with a wry grin. With you, JOHNNY, and this boat, though, we can probably knock out some work long before any swamp critters crash the party!To your shock and awe, you’re actually right about that–your trek across the swamp proves relatively uneventful, and when the distant sound of workers on the wall carries across the wind to your ears, you know you’ve found the right place!“So,” Oti begins as his disco ball eyes scan the swamp for saboteurs, “What shall we whip up, hm?”>CONTD.
>>6415896What indeed! With Oti and JOHNNY you have quite a few options…What do? (Good Rolls, so CHOOSE 3!)>PERMAFROST WALL: Work with Oti’s Cryomancy to make a huge wall fortified with magical frost! Invaders WILL notice, but will have to work hard to bust through.>SINK TRAPS: By boring holes beneath the swamp’s surface, you can create several deadly traps that invaders will slip into and drown in! Can’t be seen at first, but others will grow wise to them.>TANGLEWEED: With JOHNNY’S NUTRIENT SCATTERER you can entice local flora to grow to an alarming degree, making the swamp difficult to traverse on foot! Will slow invaders down!>DEEP MUCK: There’s already quite an aquifer below the swamps, but digging deeper will allow it to flood even LOWER. Can destabilize and discourage tunnels, whoever plans on using them.>MIRE MAZE: Work with JOHNNY to shape the local flora into maze-like patterns, making it harder to find a way through! Oti can help by freezing them in place to resist flames.>FLORAL FEAST: By casting ENLARGE and adding nutrients to MURKY TOEBITERS: an indigenous flora known for snaring unwary swampgoer’s ankles, you can create a gauntlet of bloodthirsty plants that could easily chomp a Skog in half!>SLIPPERY SWAMP: Working with Oti you can freeze and reshape large swathes of swamp into frozen slopes and pitfalls. Will make it very difficult to traverse!>GIANT FRICKIN’ HOLE: Just make a massive hole in the swamp. Good luck crossing this, morons.>I JUST HAD A GREAT IDEA: (WRITE-IN!)
>>6415897>TANGLEWEED: With JOHNNY’S NUTRIENT SCATTERER you can entice local flora to grow to an alarming degree, making the swamp difficult to traverse on foot! Will slow invaders down!>>DEEP MUCK: There’s already quite an aquifer below the swamps, but digging deeper will allow it to flood even LOWER. Can destabilize and discourage tunnels, whoever plans on using them.>>FLORAL FEAST: By casting ENLARGE and adding nutrients to MURKY TOEBITERS: an indigenous flora known for snaring unwary swampgoer’s ankles, you can create a gauntlet of bloodthirsty plants that could easily chomp a Skog in half!I think this is the way to go, with a write-in addendum that we should, if able, get the ROOTS of the swamp plants to grow DOWNWARDS and tangled to fuck so that any potential tunneling is as hindered as those trying to move above ground. If we do all of that, and the tsergs are hanging too, this are is probably totally impassable to invaders, saving manpower for the other walls.
Speaking more broadly as we continue to prep for assaults or attempts to breach into the town, I will just lay out some principles to stick to: With enough time and/or the right tools, any security measure can be overcome or bypassed. Anyone selling you a safe that they claim is burglar proof is full of shit. It is all about delay and hindrance and buying time. We should never try to totally shut down a specific means of entry when we can instead compound complications for multiple means of entry. We want what outwardly appears to be our weakest point to inwardly be our strongest. It seems like this area already naturally has a lot of complicating elements, which is excellent. We should find a different part of the city where it's more difficult to erect exterior defenses, but layer them from within so that attacks focusing there will waste more resources before they realize they need to re-assess.
>>6415897>TANGLEWEED: With JOHNNY’S NUTRIENT SCATTERER you can entice local flora to grow to an alarming degree, making the swamp difficult to traverse on foot! Will slow invaders down!>DEEP MUCK: There’s already quite an aquifer below the swamps, but digging deeper will allow it to flood even LOWER. Can destabilize and discourage tunnels, whoever plans on using them.>>FLORAL FEAST: By casting ENLARGE and adding nutrients to MURKY TOEBITERS: an indigenous flora known for snaring unwary swampgoer’s ankles, you can create a gauntlet of bloodthirsty plants that could easily chomp a Skog in half!
>>6415925>>6416073>TANGLEWEED>DEEP MUCK>FLORAL FEASTGot a big day at work coming up so expect delays! Sorry, all! I'll be much more free soonish, honest!
It’s hard work. Honest work… but hard work! Preparing a city for a siege is draining in the best of worlds–and even in a world where you’ve got an ancient landscaping bot and a grumpy mage on your side, not to mention a fistful of sweet, sweet Earthen divinity, the going is slow.VERY slow. Slower than a trickle of molasses on a flat stretch of concrete… during a blizzard.’Work smarter, not harder’, as your boss used to say–wait, no, Lars always said it the other way around. A-anyways, you opt to work SMARTER this time, and needless to say things work out pretty darn well! By the end of the first hour, your arms are aching–seems like divine intervention is still pretty taxing! With no harassment from the local wildlife–aside from an extremely persistent gnat-thing that nips at your ears–you manage to bang out quite a bit of your plan–namely the move that will, if you and Oti are correct, keep anything from tunneling beneath this stretch of swamp!“Keeping the route unblocked, I see.” Oti remarks as JOHNNY works his magic on a patch of what the Chytree refers to as STRANGLEMOSS, “Wise indeed.”Thanks, you reply with a grin as you wipe some chilled sweat off your brow. Wanted to let ‘em think they’ve got a fighting chance.“This might not be as much of a disaster as I had initially anticipated.”That’s high praise coming from him! The bug-eyed mage merely grunts. “Don’t allow these defenses to render you too comfortable. A siege gives way to a battle, more often than not, even in these modern times we live in.”You try not to react too much to the ‘modern times’ bit. Has, uh… has he been in one before? The Chytree shifts on the skiff’s prow. “... some.”Woah, you exclaim, even earning JOHNNY’s attention, w-what was it like? Who were the siegers? The siegees? A-any cool tips for a newbie?A long, weary sigh leaves Oti’s… whatever Chytree have. “Harrowing. Star-Cloak Assets. Plenty: Gnok Separatists, Skogs, Mzz’goe’virr pirates, Skogs, Mox Pirates, Skogs, and finally a pack of very irate Durher factory workers.” His eyes thrum with thought. “And a tip? Always keep someone else close by to take cover behind. But never clump up.”Weighing his words carefully, one tidbit rises above the rest: He… didn’t mention any FUUXI. The Sorcerer stares.“... I did not.”But he’s fought some, right? Another sigh. Are you BUGGING him?!“No, it’s just…” Oti’s eyes scan the horizon as something on his head rattles like a snake’s tail. “Fuuxi don’t siege. They swarm.”You exchange a somewhat one-sided glance with JOHNNY. What’s the difference?“The difference,” Continues the mage in a laconic tone even for him, “Is that there are those–myself included–who wonder if Fuuxi are even smart enough for higher tactics in the first place.”>CONTD.
>>6416390They’re bossed around by a queen or something, right? Or, like… commandery thingies? The wizard scowls at your word choices like you’d just given his mom’s rump a good spank.“... Yes, they have… ‘commandery thingies’.” He answers, spitting the last words out like chunks of gristle. “But they aren’t like Skogs. Skogs–obnoxious though they can be–create. They plan. They demonstrate several hallmarks of sentience.… And Fuuxi?“Many scholars believe they’re more complicated than they lead us to believe,” Shrugs the sorcerer, the small gesture causing your dinghy to gently bob in the muck, “But the evidence is sparse, to say the least. They come in all shapes and sizes… cannot–or refuse to–communicate, and their colonies strewn about Zoral can remain dormant for decades. So when ARCHMAGE TRIER of all people asserts they might be preparing for an attack–”It gives him the heebie-jeebies? The Chytree frowns.“I have no idea what that means.”It means it spooks him, you repeat with an apologetic smile. Oti’s eyes flicker like cheap Christmas lights.“Ah. Well I’d be lying if I said they didn’t unnerve me.” He pauses. “And for good reason, I might add.”Right, you nod as JOHNNY blasts some more nutrients into the bog, they’re naturally magic-resistant, right?“For a start.” Oti sighs. “They’re nigh-undetectible by magic. Every second or third spell just fizzles in their wake… and the vile things seem to actively seek out mages on the battlefield…” He shudders. “If you could call it that.”What would he call it?“A slaughterhouse.”Ah.“That’s not to say Skogs aren’t terrible,” He segues with a flicker in his eyes, “But-”>Roll me 1d100 for REASONS! Best of 3! Next update on Friday, probably--big day at work!
Rolled 84 (1d100)Meow?
Rolled 45 (1d100)>>6416391
Rolled 42 (1d100)>>6416391I'M AWAKELET'S ROLL
>>6416405>>6416485>>6416583>HIGHEST ROLL: 84Damn, can't pull a fast one on you guys! Writing!
Just as Oti’s about to say something charitable about Skogs for once, the brackish water behind him EXPLODES in a foul-smelling fountain that showers the dinghy and its dinghers in a flurry of filthy water! That’s pretty bad, yea, but what’s worse is what comes after: the eruption’s architect bursts from the bog and sends your vessel rocking back and forth like a baby cradle on a faultline–a massive, flailing appendage the size of a tree and twice as thick! “HELLS!” Roars Oti as JOHNNY cheerfully continues to spray nutrients around the boat, “It’s HERE!”You’re about to ask ‘what is’ when you get another stanky shower from the water behind you… and unless you’re mistaken, what bursts out in its wake sounds an awful lot like the tentacle that nearly took Oti’s head off!Ducking beneath what feels like a tree swinging at your head, you spring into action as soon as you can!What is!?“T-THE TSERG, you buffoon!” Stammers Oti as he skillfully balances uncharacteristic bafflement while dodging the tentacle behind him! “It must’ve slipped right past us!”Gosh, you nod as three–no,FOUR more tentacles spring from the muddy depths, this swamp’s pretty deep, huh?“I’m sure we’ll get a full tour if we don’t DEAL with this!” The mage snarls as the spell he’s conjuring is put on hold when a tentacle smacks your boat! Spinning across the swamp like a leaf in a toilet bowl, you can’t help but tense up a bit as the murk erupts in a low, rumbling howl! Wh-what does THAT mean!?“It means it’s ANGRY!” Answers your favorite sorcerer as he sends a flailing appendage reeling with a well-placed spell! “I can teleport us, but-”Another tentacle comes crashing down into the water just inches from your dinghy, sending you and your merry band of misfits skipping along the swamp!“-but I’ll need to concentrate!” He concludes, wiping some fresh gunk from his eye!Another massive drunken swipe sweeps inches above your hat–bet they didn’t count on facing a LIMBOER! Spitting the spray off of your mouth, you send an incredulous glance Oti’s way! Wh-what if you wanna deal with this thing now?!“I DON’T CARE, JUST KEEP THE DAMNED THING AWAY OR WE’RE SUNK!”Okay, rude!What’s the plan?>HELLFIRE and Water = HELL…STEAM? Might drive it off!>JOHNNY! That thing’s trying to kill the plants!>The swamp’s deep, but maybe you can trap this thing with some GEOMANCY?>You have a BLASTCAP or two left… time for some Southern-style Fishing!>HELLGEYSER those tentacles! It can’t kill you if it doesn’t have any of those, right?>HELLGEYSER/NUTRIENT BLAST your way to safety! They can propel your boat outta’ here!>Write-In!
>>6416655>The swamp’s deep, but maybe you can trap this thing with some GEOMANCY?Rock em! >You have a BLASTCAP or two left… time for some Southern-style Fishing!Sock em! >JOHNNY! That thing’s trying to kill the plants!ROBOT! Basically, if we can sweep the mud out from around the thing and make a hole below it, the current of the water rushing in and the current should make it hard for the tserg to swim out for long enough to toss in a blast cap, and Johnny can swat the fucker if it tries to escape!
>>6416655>You have a BLASTCAP or two left… time for some Southern-style Fishing!BLOW THEM UP BLOW THEM UP BLOW THEM UP BLOW THEM UP>JOHNNY! That thing’s trying to kill the plants!COOL ROBOT COOL ROBOT COOL ROBOT
>>6416685>>6416699FUCK IT WE'LL DO ALL THREE THIS IS DARK QUEST NOT PICK ONE COMBAT OPTION QUEST RRRRAAAAAHHHHH!!!!! T O W E R O F P O W E R R R R>Roll me 3d100's. Yep, 3d100 for each voter/roller/whatever! I'll calculate each bonusthing as follows:>ROLL 1 (GEOMANCY):-2 (+3 GEOMANCY, +2 Oti didn't get got, -7 DEEP SWAMP)>ROLL 2 (BLASTCAP):+5 (+4 Nasty in the Water, +3 Big target, -2 Shaking around)>ROLL 3 (JOHNNY):+7 (+3 Big Target, +5 FLAMESHOT, -1 Shaking around (but superior engineering)Best of 3 rolls!
Rolled 25, 44, 2 = 71 (3d100)>>6416807MACINTOSH AND PRESTO PEAS FROM THA TOP ROPE! TOWER OF POWER! DOUBLE THREAT DUO! TAKE HER TO THE MATTRESS!
Holy fucking kek, I think I need to take my dice in to the shop for an oil change!
Rolled 72, 45, 27 = 144 (3d100)>>6416807
Rolled 93, 30, 98 = 221 (3d100)>>6416807
After, uh....basically a month of procrastinating, I have finally got myself to catch up to the quest. It was pretty hard getting through some scenes in questions, but not in the sense of them being bad, though it's a bit hard to explain.Anyway, here's something I made just for the sake of having something.
>>6417024LMFAO that rulesWelcome back anon(:
>>6417024DARK QUEST CHUDS? WE'RE BACK?
>>6416809>>6416891>>6417011>HIGHEST ROLLS: 91! 50 (JUST NAILED IT), 105 (JESUS CHRIST, JOHNNY)Sorry for the wait--Saturday is chore day so expect some delays!>>6417024Thank you? I'm gonna be honest: I love fanart and all, but the vagueposting attached to it kind of cheapens it for me. Not trying to sound ungrateful, I just don't really understand what you're aiming at.Anywho, WRITING
>>6417073> I just don't really understand what you're aiming at.Well, let me put it that way...during the whole vault adventure, after Rezzie killed the mageman, Anton said he was sorry but defended Rezzie.But that's the thing, you see? Saying you defend an action and do not regret it is the literal opposite of saying sorry. Why would you say sorry if you're not actually sorry? I hate it when people do that. If Rezzie did her usual killing-or-maiming-people routine on somebody and they caved her head in with a frying pan, and their only response was "Sorry, but she deserved it", would Anton be fine with that? Would he go >yeah fair enough i'll join you guys? No, because sorry isn't a magic word. I HATE the word sorry. It's a stupid word that is never used right because nobody who actually says sorry is sorry.
>>6417078I think Anton's the type to say 'sorry' no matter what--it's a trait of his that sets him apart from Diesel and Stanley. As for the aftermath of Oodeel's whole thing, well, I think you guys will have something to discuss with Rezalith once you have the down-time to do so. I tried not to make it too obvious, but she was a bit more muted after the end of the Vault shenanigans.Short version though: Anton's not perfect. I hate perfect characters. Thank you for at least adding some context though. Here's hoping the rest of Part 9 gets better!
>>6417080It's not about Anton being perfect, I'm just saying that it's an entirely meaningless usage when you're declaring the literal antonym of sorry so it kinda set me off.But I suppose Oodel has the spine of a Noodel so it wasn't gonna lead to nothing.
>>6417078>Why would you say sorry if you're not actually sorry?You can hold the sentiments>This person was an imminent threat and we were right to defend ourselves, and you And >I am sorry you experienced this traumatic event where your friend tried to kill you and we had to take his life for everyone's safety after having just met youAt the same time. That's how I read it, anyways, like we can console this emotionally hurt kid and justify our self defense.
>>6417084>You can hold the sentimentsBut he doesn't. He specifically says "No, we were right to kill him", even if you're right and he was a threat, that's literally the exact opposite of being sorry.
>>6417085Idunno man, respectfully, at this point it just seems like you have hangups with apologies. He didn't say, 'I'm sorry we killed him, that was wrong', yaknow? I feel like it's possible to feel pity and even sorrow for someone that experiences something awful like that, even if you also know that it was the right call. I feel those feelings about it as a player, anyways, like, I am sorry for her and I still know Rezzie did the right thing.
>>6417088I understand that some people use "sorry" as some sort of generic word for "your life sure is tough buddy", I simply disagree with the usage. It's why I used the comparison. Rez maims or kills people all the time, but I doubt a simple "Sorry, but she deserved it" would have alleviated any feelings whatsoever towards the person who did it.
https://youtu.be/9_w04en5CK4?list=RD9_w04en5CK4Spurred into action by Oti’s harsh tone–totally uncalled for, by the way, you get that he’s stressed out, but–you fall backwards into the dinghy just in time to avoid another clumsy swipe from the tsitanic Tserg menacing your vessel!JOHNNY, you shout as you dip your hand into the brackish water and HELLGEYSER your skiff out of the way of a mighty smack, this thing! It’s going to crush the plants you just cultivated!The automaton creaks and hisses at your assertion as the many-limbed leviathan below you lets loose with another gurgled bellow from below! JOHNNY, you repeat as another tentacle slams into the water next to you, THE PLAAAANTS! THE PLAAAAANTS, JOHNNY!!!Meanwhile, Oti remains crouched in the skiff’s center, eyes glowing with intense concentration… and growing frustration! “JUST… TELL IT TO ATTA-”A wet wail reverberates across the bog as you hear a pair of appendages rise from the depths like mud-slaked menhirs… and they’re about to collapse!On YOU! As another HELLGEYSER charges up in your fists, however, your vessel bobs and rocks as your new landscaper strides to meet the monster’s boat-mashers mid-way!CLOOOOONG!And stops them mid-strike!“STAY. OFF. THE. PLANTS.”Shoving the sucker-stalks away like they were made of balsa wood, the irate automaton’s eyes glow with renewed energy as the air in front of it ignites with fresh flames!Squealing in shock, the beast’s tentacles retreat to the muck… but you’re not letting it go that easily! While JOHNNY works crowd control with the remaining arms, your divine grip finds purchase on some deep, deep soil… and YANKS it!JOHNNY’s flames divert another tentacle slap from your scow as you pull with all your might–whatever you’ve got ahold of feels like tugging at a railroad spike–and as you feel your efforts slowly rise from the muddy depths, the Tserg tsurns its attention towards your gallant gardener!Metal clangs across the muddy mire as the fiend flails–the fire trick might’ve worked before, but now? Whatever this thing is doesn’t seem to mind a little searing anymore! Taking a blow to the side, JOHNNY staggers around the skiff with increasing unease–half due to the increasing fury behind each strike, the other from the unstable footing! Squirming away just in time to avoid being stomped, you give the ground one final TUG! The gamble pays off–breaching the surface like a foul-smelling submarine, the Tserg gurgles with alarming clarity as the air fills with even fouler odors than usual–talk about a bad case of halitosis!You didn’t pack breath mints, but you’ve got something else for the monster’s maw…>CONTD.
>>6417098https://youtu.be/OTNfuztCMgMLeaping to your feet and off the boat, your boots land on the beast’s mucus-slick body and struggle to find purchase… Nevertheless, you charge up it like a soldier taking a hill–the air around you ablaze with JOHNNY’S fire-blasts and the Tserg’s forest of flailing arms!The slick surface has one advantage–sensing your intent, the mama Tserg sweeps at you like a mosquito–but you manage to slip underneath with a well-timed POWER-SLIDE! While VERY cool, the fist-pump that follows proves to be a bit premature: another limb is waiting to snatch you up like a loaded nacho before you can even react!Hoisted above the beast’s body, you try to contain your stomach’s contents as you’re whipped back and forth like a baby rattle–each swing sending your innards crashing into the side of their container! As your consciousness fades and your head swims, you reach into your voluminous pockets and retrieve your aces in the hole: BLASTCAPS. One for each hand… two for each… m-mouth! Yea!Another shake nearly makes you lose your grip, but you hold firm just long enough to feel hot, humid, butcher shop dumpster-scented air hit your face–its mouth!Igniting your ordnance with some HELLFIRE, you let gravity take the wheel and drop them both towards the monster’s waiting maw…BOOOOM!!!!The ensuing explosion rocks the water below, causing the beast to let you go!… Mid-swing!It’s a good thing Zoral’s dark–otherwise you’d probably look really silly right now! Sailing over the swamp like a blimp on a mission, you feel an arcane force snatch you out of existence…VOOIP!And land with a crash onto the skiff’s muddy deck!“Not very graceful.”Ignoring Oti’s cute little remark, you instead focus on the baleful moan cutting across the bog–by the sound of the water shifting around you you gather your bombing run didn’t quite hit its mark, but the monster mama’s clearly weighing its options!Oti, you groan as you stagger to your feet–no small feat on a rocking boat, you might add–the teleport spell?“I just used it to save your skin.” He replies blandly. “Apologies.”You get it, you cough, but now you’ve got a decision to make! As JOHNNY continues to keep the beast at bay like a loyal hunting hound, you turn to pass judgement on the eyeless aberration!A smell akin to burnt, rotten fish fills the air as the Tserg’s attacks no longer come–in place of mighty howls come cautious gurgles… is the Tserg beaten… or just biding its time?What do?>Finish it off now–it’ll only cause trouble even if it survives the siege!>Just leave–the battle is won and it’ll be more cautious if and when invaders arrive…>Write-In!
>>6417099>Just leave–the battle is won and it’ll be more cautious if and when invaders arrive…Mating season will pass, in the meantime, this thing's presence will have the other tsergs especially violent and be a nice final deterrent for this section of the defenses, I think.
>>6417099>Just leave–the battle is won and it’ll be more cautious if and when invaders arrive…
>>6417133>>6417395>>6417426>RESPECT MOTHER NATUREWriting! Sorry, had some errands to run!>>6417133"The enemy of your enemy might still try to kill you, but they also might attack your other enemy, so"~Lamplighter Handbook Section 8, Subsection 22!
Oti, you mutter as your gaze remains locked on the muck-dwelling menace, do-“It’s over there.”Oh. Right! Ot-“There.”… Look, he knows about Tsergs, right? The bog grows quiet save for the occasional gurgle of an air bubble wriggling free of the murky water.“... Marginally.”Okay, cool–do… how are their planning skills? Can they establish and act upon grudges or anything? Do they do that, usually?Another pause–this one free of any gurglings.“... Are you asking me if the repulsive bog monsters are capable of pursuing acts of vengeance?”… Yea?“No, Anton, the repulsive bog monster is not capable of pursuing acts of vengeance.” He sighs with a shake of his glowing eyes, “But knowing our luck I wouldn’t put it past us discovering Zoral’s only outlier.”Well don’t JINX it! Jeez! Still, that’s good to know–and while you of all people knows how unlucky your unluck can get, well… you can’t quite bring yourself to deliver a decisive blow to the swamp beast!JOHNNY probably can, though, so you tell him to cool it for now! With your landscaper standing down, you send Oti a decisive nod–let’s get outta’ here before your newly-grown plants get too peckish!“An excellent idea. Let’s.”Giving JOHNNY the command to nutrient-blast your boat back the way you came, you cast a furtive glance at the beaten bog beast as it leaves you with one last muted gurgle before slowly slipping beneath the water from whence it came. The way back to the airship is slow-going, doubly-so thanks to the… modifications you made on the local plant life, but while the flora hinders you somewhat, the fauna stays far away…By the time you get back, the cold, moist air blanketing the swamps has grown even colder–it’s been quite a productive day, you think as your dinghy jostles against Shuuri’s hull, but night approaches…“Still alive, I see.” Joplin remarks as he gives you a magical hand onto the deck. “No close encounters with the local wildlife, then?”Oh, you got close alright, you grumble as you shake some swamp scum off your COOL HAT onto the deck, real educational, lemme tell ya!“The Southern Swamps should prove to be far more challenging to traverse now,” Oti adds with an approving nod, “What word is there from the other areas?”“Steady pacing on all sides.” Answers Joplin with a shrug. “No incidents of note either, at least not since the last time I spoke to the Engineering Corps Liaison."So that… that’s good, right? Joplin and Oti exchange a glance while JOHNNY admires the scenery as best he can from the guardrail, which, as you might’ve guessed from the title, is not much!“Inconclusive.” The Chytree answers, earning a nod from his Gnok counterpart. “If the invaders are smart, they won’t risk any moves that’ll spoil their surprise.”>CONTD.
>>6417611“They’ll most likely attack later in the evening… or early in the morning.” Adds Joplin. “Those wee hours when the civilians and some of the defenders are resting.”“Or nursing a hangover.” Oti mutters as he gives you a pointed stare.Right, you nod, say, where’s Joji?“Below deck. Tinkering, I’d suspect.” Joplin answers as a small smile slips onto his face. “Though he claimed he’d be ready for takeoff at, and I quote, ‘the drop of a Coil Dampener’, whatever that means… ah, right. If we’re finished here, I had hoped to check in on my Spinner. The Triplets no doubt have her on a tight leash, but…”The Manager’s shrug tells you everything the rest of the sentence could’ve. “Anywho, if you intend to check in on the Recruitment Drive, I’d appreciate it if you allowed me to accompany you.”“They most likely have it well in hand already…” Chides the Chytree with an unseen wave of his claw. “We should use this time to ensure we’re prepared for whatever comes next–whenever it comes, that is.”You feel an idle twitch in your inner ear. Both of them have good points–you can’t quite put your finger on it, but you get the feeling it won’t be long now before the powder keg goes off… which means you should choose your next move carefully…What’s the next step?>Assist the Engineering Corps in strengthening the remaining borders!>Check in on the Recruitment Drive at Ma’s Tavern!>Head back into Crossroads and check in with the Bellcounters and other troops!>Scout out Crossroads’ Perimeter–maybe someone can give you a lead?>Check in with one of your party members via COMMUNICATION DOOHICKY! (Who?)>Meet up with Crossroads' Bigwigs one more time!>Write-In!
>>6417612>Assist the Engineering Corps in strengthening the remaining borders!I think presently we are uniquely suited to the task of securing the perimeter, especially with MacBook Pro helping out, so let's lean on it.
>>6417612>Assist the Engineering Corps in strengthening the remaining borders!
